Journey With Us

KOKO IN THE SNOW

2009-11-16T16:18:00.018-07:00

"TAKE ME TO THE CANDY"

2009-10-31T14:33:00.000-06:00

HALLOWEEN '09 - OUR "SOCIAL BUTTERFLY"

2009-10-31T14:30:00.000-06:00

SEASONS CHANGE

2009-10-09T13:14:00.008-06:00

We went for a fall drive in the mountains a few days ago. It’s, of course, that time of year – the aspen are changing and its gorgeous – can’t miss it.

Oooooh….

Ahhhhhh…..

Koko was underwhelmed apparently.

Guido jumped from the front seat onto Koko’s lap in her car seat on the way home….funny….He was trying to get comfy and Koko was trying to push him off her lap. Too cute.

So then, Some questions we have received:

- Did you break down in emotional crying when you met Koko for the first time? Not really, we were pretty much running after her trying to keep up with her energy from the first moment we met her. Go, go, go – no time to cry!

- How was the plane ride home? Pretty much a period in time I would rather not repeat. Koko slept for maybe 4 hours of the 16 hour flight from Dubai to LA, and needed to be eating, moving, or screaming the rest of the time! SOOO glad to be home.

- Is she wearing the 18-24 month clothes you got? No. When we got home I dug out the 12 month clothes I had removed from the closet and they fit her like a glove. She’s on the small side for an 18 month old, but still growing normally.

- Has she been to the doctor yet? Oh yes. We went to the doctor last week – the doc says she’s smart, a lot of fun (totally!), and despite being behind slightly on some of her developmental milestones, he says she will have absolutely no problem catching up, and quickly, too. He says she’s very healthy. He was awesome – I’m so glad he is Koko’s doctor – he was great with us, too, giving us tons of great info and asking if we had any questions, etc. Very kind, gentle, and loving as he was examining Koko. She had shots as well, screamed her head off by the 4th one, but recovered quickly. She was pretty much a champ!

- Did you have a great time in Ethiopia? Ummmmm….yes. But glad to be home. It was hard to get into any sort of routine with Koko while there, and with her energy it is totally necessary to find a comfort zone. Ethiopia was much as we expected, with the poverty, conditions of the orphanages, older children’s homes, culture. We met some super great families also there to bring their kiddos home, we had a full group to enjoy the group events with, and to bond with over the experience. It was beautiful and emotionally exhausting all at the same time – hard to describe.

- Is Koko eating well? Pretty much – she’ll eat almost anything.

- Is Koko sleeping well? Sleeping through the night no problem! Sweet! However, naptime sleeping doesn’t happen in the crib. The first few days home when we went to lay her down for her nap (she was visibly tired), she would stand back up in her crib and scream. Not cry – scream and yell - forever! For now we are just sitting her down on a blanket in the living room with some toys and most days she’ll fall asleep for an hour or so after lunch that way. We’re still figuring it out!

- Is she attaching to you? Koko is a social butterfly - it is just simply her personality – loves saying hi and blowing kisses to anyone, will even run and hug a new person’s leg. But, she does seem to be comfortable with Mama and Dada, regularly gives us hugs and kisses and runs to us when in a playful mood, wants to stay close initially when around groups of people, etc.

- How is Guido doing with Koko? He seems to see Koko as a toy or exciting new friend, not sure which – he is relentless in licking her in the morning, just as he is with Chad. He does seem to get jealous when Chad or I are holding Koko and will run over and bark or whine at our feet for attention. He’s been very gentle and hasn’t gone hiding like we thought he might. He has to be in the middle of the action most times.

- How is Koko doing with Guido? Koko seems to be putting up with Guido – doesn’t despise him or scream at him, etc., but also doesn’t go running to him to give him hugs and kisses. She’ll push him away or try to hit him (we’re working on the no hitting and no biting issues) when she’s not in the mood for him to be around. They both often fight over each other’s toys, although short lived.

- How does Koko like being in a car seat? She’s got no problem hanging out in the car seat surprisingly. After a while she gets restless like any kiddo would, but gets right in when we’re ready to go.

- How does she do in church? Haven’t been there yet – first weekend back in church is this weekend. Can you say “nursery”?

- What was the care center like where Koko lived? A lot of toddlers roaming around a room with many cribs, with several caregivers near by tending to what they needed. We are told the kiddos were on quite a schedule, eating, sleeping, eating, sleeping, etc…didn’t see any toys around, but it was clean and the caregivers seemed to really care about the kids, providing for any need that came up as immediately as they could.

- Are you all settling into a routine? Hmmmmm….pretty much. We both get back to work full time soon so it will be interesting to see how daycare shakes up the routine we’ve gotten into. All being home together for these few weeks has been a HUMONGOUS blessing. Spending the time as a new family has been invaluable. We learn more about Koko every day, and she seems more and more comfortable with us and in our home every day, more affectionate as the days go on. Her little personality is bright and energetic! Doesn’t like to hear “no”, explores everything she can, touching, watching, listening, mimicking, LOVES bathtime, etc. She is so precious, so adorable, so beautiful – we love her soooo much.

Okey Dokey - Super duper photos coming soon of our arrival at DIA and first morning at home with Koko, and of our recent long weekend in South Dakota visiting family. Stay tuned for more on our changing seasons….

Love to all,
Smj out.

COLLEGE GAME DAY!

2009-09-26T14:32:00.008-06:00

Hola fellow Husker football fans! GO BIG RED!!!

"Go Huskers!"

"OK, gotta run!"

"Hmmmmm....how can I get through here?"

"I guess I'll sit for 30 seconds and play with my toys."

"Ha! I'll get you Guido!"

"SAVE ME!"

Another exciting college game day at the Johnson house!

smj out.

HOME

2009-09-24T14:18:00.019-06:00

As our spunky little girl sits on my lap while I type away, I look down at her beautiful face and am amazed. We are home - finally rested up enough to update the blog, check facebook, etc., and we are amazed at all the wonderful people still out there cheering us on! We were blessed to spend our time in country with our family, and we were blessed to make it to Arrivals at DIA with family waiting there for us, too. Truly a time in our lives to remember.

Koko is a special little girl to be sure. Even now, as I type, she wants to help! She is on the go, go, go. From the moment we met her, we have seen her energetic and loving personality shining. She loves walking, hates sleeping, loves eating, hates waiting, loves saying hi to people, hates sitting still! She is perfect for us - she will challenge us, and bless us all at the same time. Oh, and Guido is suprising us by wanting to lick her face, feet, hands all the time, and Koko seems to like him, but doesn't really sit still long enough for us to really be able to tell!

More on Ethiopia later - for now, some photos of our first day and first week getting to know our new daughter Koko Mimi...

Above: Koko with her special caregivers in the Ethiopian dress they gave her.

Above: Koko with our driver Henok - she loved him! And he was fantastic!

"Hello Family! I'm HOME!!!"

Ciao - Susan, Chad, and Koko

KOKO MIMI ON THE BRAIN

2009-09-05T13:53:00.004-06:00

You know you have Koko Mimi on the brain when...

You're sitting in a meeting at the nursing home where you work and you hear the word 'continent' and instantly think - "Africa!" (as opposed to the more typical nursing home usage of the word!) Hmmmmm.....yes, it's time to go!

We're packing (trying to pack efficiently, but holy buckets, we're packing for a kid here!), we're remodeling (now? yes, crazy, I know), we're clearing out a space for J & A to sleep (they're stopping by before heading to Rome), we're giving Guido a little hair cut and bath before dropping him off at Kirsten's for our time away (he can't wait for his hair cut - ha!), we're pulling extra hours at work to 'get it all done before we leave' (right, we both work in 24-7-365 businesses - it's never really done!), we're watching for everyone's care packages to arrive to pack away to deliver to waiting families' kiddos (totally blessed to pay it forward), yes, we're dreaming of flying off into the sunset on Thursday...

We. Are. Almost. There.

wow.

smj out

PREPARING

2009-08-21T13:29:00.000-06:00

Preparations are being made. It’s hard to believe we are finally talking about these kinds of things – plane tickets, where we’ll stay, seeing Koko for the first time, meeting Koko’s birthmom, what she’s eating/drinking, and the list goes on!

We’ve got house projects to finish and jobs to prepare to be away from. Wow. Just wow.

After a minor glitch with CIS fingerprints not yet received in Addis, we’ve learned all is well with that now (whew). We’ve got air booked – we leave Denver Sept 10 to stay in Dubai for a couple days before arriving in Addis on Sept 13 . We are staying at a guest house called the Ayat House with some pretty cool people we know. We hope we get to meet Koko Mimi for the first time on the 13th. And the in-country staff is working on arranging a meeting with her birthmom while we are there.

Slightly surreal to be at this point. But it's also...

Absolutely. Totally. Perfect.

smj

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

2009-08-14T13:05:00.000-06:00

Today, Friday, August 14th, 2009 is THE day. The day we are privileged to be given a daughter.

How very grateful we are to be at the end of this part of the journey. Our lives are forever changed – and, finally, a new journey awaits!

But, for now, we will bask in the glory of this day – today. A beautiful day, with beautiful news, and a beautiful new reality that we are indeed parents to a beautiful little girl.

And now, all thanks be to God for this precious gift!

PEACEFULNESS PLEASE

2009-08-13T12:58:00.002-06:00

I would like to officially submit my request to be granted a wee bit of peacefulness in this anxious moment. (moment being the next 24 hours)

We hope that the report we received this afternoon of "no bad news received today" means "total super duper fabulous good news received tomorrow". However, we certainly know the tension of 'possibly-but-possibly-not', and will just try to stay in our quietness until we know tomorrow's outcome.

That's all.

Peacefulness to all.

smj

NEXT MIRACLE PLEASE

2009-08-12T11:50:00.002-06:00

One miracle down. The document is in hand. Absolute. Total. Miracle.

We're now looking ahead to the next miracle - tomorrow.

Tomorrow the miracle needs to be that MOWA will get to our file, find the document adequate, and issue a positive opinion. Oh, PLEASE. (then on to friday...)

But we'll take the miracles one day at a time at this point.

Rocky is fighting, and we're holding fast.

smj

YET ANOTHER CHANCE

2009-08-11T11:05:00.003-06:00

We are thankful the courts are giving us another chance so soon - - no go today - - but we will try again in court this Friday the 14th. Despite multiple attempts to secure the needed document - no luck yet. We need a miracle to happen to get this document from the necessary officials and into our file for MOWA to review by Thursday, to be ready for court on Friday. This ongoing anxious suspense is pretty amazing. (Honestly I could think of other words!)

Oh when will we finally see you Koko?!? We HOPE it is soon - what do we have if we do not have HOPE?

smj out

HOLD FAST

2009-08-07T15:40:00.001-06:00

“To everyone who's hurting, To those who've had enough
Hold fast, Help is on the way
Hold fast, He's come to save the day
What I've learned in my life, One thing greater than my strife
Is His grasp, So hold fast.
You may think you're all alone, And there's no way that anyone could know
What you're going through
But if you only hear one thing, Just understand that we are all the same
Searching for the truth
So, hold fast, Help is on the way…”

So, of course I know our small journey is not the center of the universe. There are so many others out there struggling with all kinds of things. I heard Mercy Me’s, “Hold Fast” on the radio the other day – I hear it a lot, but this time I really heard the words in the context of our journey and was also reminded of how we are not alone.

Hey everyone, we are with you on the journey, wherever different paths may lead. AND, Rocky is still fighting, so even though there is still no document ready for court on Tuesday, and even though we’ve been hurt, and, dang it, even though at times we feel we’ve had enough, we will Hold Fast!

- - Stay strong everyone!

Have a super duper weekend!
smj out

KEEP ON LIVIN'

2009-08-03T11:24:00.003-06:00

Been away from internet for a few days...but just wanted to pass on that Gladney did go to court for us on Friday. Birthmom has officially relinquished, and a new court date of August 11 was issued. We are now racing against the clock to get the additional document. We have obtained a document from this same government agency in Ethiopia in recent months - it took several weeks. Thus, we are guarded in our hopes to have the document within the next few short days. It needs to be in our file for MOWA to be able to review prior to our August 11 court date.

And so, in the words of my dear husband, we will live hopeful and joyful because we are faithful that this fight will be won at some point, in spite of this journey taking a different path than we had imagined. Someday this part of the journey will all be over...

...someday when it's time.

smj out

NOT 7-31-09

2009-07-30T12:55:00.000-06:00

Today we heard news that we will not make it through court tomorrow. MOWA is requesting another document. We pretty much thought that after 15 months of searching out documents that we had everything. No. Gladney will go to court tomorrow with the plan of getting a new court date. Not sure when new court date can be expected or how long this additional document may take to get. We anticipate a call from Jessica with an update tomorrow.

We are so stinkin’ frustrated and terribly terribly disappointed.
We thought we actually had a chance this time. We thought wrong…

Hearts broken again,
smj out

THE EYE OF THE TIGER

2009-07-27T10:01:00.004-06:00

HOLY SMOKES - We're shocked and thankful for the news we received this morning...

NEW COURT DATE
JULY 31
(yes, that's this Friday)

Like I always say, slow and steady wins the race...

GO ROCKY GO!!! Everybody hum that theme song!

NOT ON 7-24-09

2009-07-23T14:33:00.001-06:00

Ever feel like Rocky? Like you continually get the crap beat out of you?!? Ugh! Ok- we're down, but not out!

To give it to you straight - -
Court date not happening.
Don't know when it will.
Hope to have more details next week.

As we've been reminded...Rocky won in the end...

love to all,
smj

NOT MUCH...

2009-07-19T13:33:00.002-06:00

So....we're just hangin' out...

You know, not much going on...

Chillin'...

Doing what we do....

COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS TO FRIDAY!!!

Pray for my patience and sanity this week, will ya?!?

love to all,
smj out

OK THEN

2009-07-12T18:53:00.005-06:00

I don’t often admit to being afraid. And as the days slowly go by, admittedly and vulnerably I find myself feeling some fear. Fear that things will not happen on the same time line I have imagined in my mind. Why? The timeline in my mind was blown to pieces months ago! But, man, we are so close. Perhaps that is why I am more afraid now. I let my mind wander…some of you may know how that works… If only the process wasn't so unpredictable! My dear Chad is so much more level-headed where this is concerned. “Susan, it’ll happen when it happens.” I try to hear that and feel that inside, but many times, my mind runs wildly away! I want it to happen on MY time! Not good!

"The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18). However I am not perfect, and thank goodness God knows it. Thank goodness he spread tons of words of encouragement against fear throughout the bible. He reminds me to “fear not.”

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God, I will strengthen you, surely I will help you.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Ok then. I will read and re-read this post several times over the next few days. I will work to let go, and put my trust in the hands of the officials in Ethiopia, to trust their timeline, that they will use their hearts to accomplish amazing things for our family and so many other families, to trust in God.

Ok then!

smj out

PS - Prayers for safe travels for Chad while he is in Haiti this week!

WAITING STILL/AGAIN

2009-07-07T11:31:00.002-06:00

Deep breaths - - - we are now waiting on

July 24.

That's our court date.

One foot in front of the other - faithfully waiting on life-changing beautiful news.

Oh boy...

Deep breaths!

love to all,

smj out

FOR REAL!

2009-07-02T10:07:00.001-06:00

Document 3 is in hand - for real!

We're waiting on a court date - for real!

Jessica says we shouldn't expect to hear anything for a couple weeks - for real! TORTURE!

Heart's pounding, tummy's doing flip flops...

smj out

SHHHHHHHH.....

2009-06-28T14:21:00.008-06:00

One of the readings in worship today was from Lamentations….Sheesh! Really? Lamentations? “It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord…It is good for one to sit alone in silence...” Now, while in adoption news we’re not exactly talking salvation (!), I think the concept of waiting quietly can still apply. We'll give it a try and call it therapeutic, reflective time.

Shhhhhh…..

We’re quietly waiting to hear about document 3 and our COURT DATE!!!

Love to all,
smj out

BEAUTIFUL SMALL THINGS

2009-06-23T18:28:00.003-06:00

Peace, be still, Jesus said as the disciples were freaking out in the boat. This past weekend the preacher ;-) pointed out that it’s easy to get caught up the in drama of storms. And furthermore, the storms we think we experience in our lives are not the only storms we experience. Perhaps more perplexing are the storms we create inside of us. What is it about the human condition that allows us to let someone or something steal our joy?!? We have a choice when it comes to how life circumstances affect us. This adoption process we are in may create feelings inside that have us focusing on negatives, feeling upset, stressed out, detracting from what positives actually exist! WHY DO WE ALLOW THE NEGATIVE TO GET TO US SO??? How about focusing on the small things, really appreciating the beautiful small things that could so easily pass us by if we are not paying attention. Things like little doggies licking our faces. Like spring bulbs finally poking through the ground. Like text messages from ones we love. Like a photo of our little bundle in ET from someone we don’t even know. Like a beer on the patio in summer. Like a Sunday drive in the foothills.

I think we just have to remind ourselves to stop every so often and remember that even with storms all around us, and inside of us, there is so much beauty in life. Sooo much. What a shame it would be to miss so much.

I pray that we watch for the beauty, that we enjoy and appreciate the beauty, and that we don’t let the drama of the storms steal our joy. Now more than ever.

AMEN!
Love to all,
smj

PS -- And by the way, while we are watching for those beautiful small things, we will take joy in the news we got today that document #2 has been retrieved! One more document and Jessica is hopeful that we can get in line by early next week to get a court date on the calendar before court closure in August.

THIS WEEK

2009-06-19T19:19:00.010-06:00

Well, no movement this week. Agency's still hopeful, we're still hopeful...

I have been back in touch with Jessica recently, mostly because, at this point, we're getting scary close to court closure, and its so hard not to know the details of the journey at this time. My stomach goes into anxious knots when I think about all the details that have to come together still....

Staying in "hopeful" mode!
Will report in again next week!
Love ya all so much!
smj out

STILL HOPEFUL

2009-06-12T19:40:00.003-06:00

Well…still waiting on documents to be retrieved, agency’s still hopeful, we’re still hopeful…another week gone by in adoption-land.

Next week is a new week - - we continue to believe something great could happen - - the odds should be in our favor, right?!?

Hmmmm…difficult to guess about the odds. We’ll just try to be patient and pass the time productively! So…....how about new polling questions? Come on, give us some insight on:

*** KOKO vs. GUIDO ***

poll by twiigs.com

SWEET BABY

2009-06-02T18:18:00.003-06:00

A new picture and update is always pleasant to see in the ol' inbox.

Although I don't always get the little ditties put on the blog, this one.......well, this one seemed like something to share at this point in time.

“Her bright eyes really let her personality shine through! She scooted around the entire room on her bottom to check out what all the bigger kids were doing. She is so curious! And she wasn’t scared to try and steal a toy or two. If she isn’t satisfied with what you are doing… you will know it. You will hear a strong yell, immediately followed by a devious grin. Our playtime ended with high fives for everyone! We had so much fun together.”

Love to all,

smj

SOMETHING, NOTHING, AND JUST BECAUSE

2009-05-28T21:16:00.013-06:00

Something: We got our I-171H renewal in the mail this week. It was more involved than I had realized, as we had to have our homestudy updated, which became complicated, since our old homestudy agency is no longer in business here in CO and we had to start with a new home study/post placement social worker (Kate now - with LFS). The paperwork never ends, but it kept us busy and we're good to go again with US Immigration.

Nothing: No movement on our case this week, maybe next week...

Just Because: New dreamy pics of Guido. (I know, I know, he's not our kid, but he IS now an important part of our family - enjoy!)

Love to all,

smj

"ANYTHING YET?"

2009-05-19T18:06:00.004-06:00

We now know that corrected document #1 has finally been retrieved. But we also learned that the retrieval timeline for document #2 is somewhat unknown. (We don't think document #3 will be as difficult to get.)

We had a conference call today with some of the team, both in ET and in TX, which was helpful in that we were able to learn a little more about happenings in country affecting our case. Of course, as the 2 month rainy season court closure begins to loom over our case, once again, I had to try to get a feel for the 'reality' of our timeline. And, of course, there is no way of knowing for sure what will happen...Gladney's team is truly hopeful that our case will make it through before the court closure, and so we will be hopeful, too. What do we have, if we don't have hope?!?

We wait now to hear of news about the needed documents, and hope for something great to happen to catapult our case into and successfully out of court before August so we can go get this little girl and BRING. HER. HOME!!!

Praying simply for that patience we need to keep the main thing the main thing! Love to all,

smj out

FRUITFUL

2009-05-10T17:58:00.004-06:00

At a vineyard in Oregon June ‘04

A notable pastor I know preached a pretty good sermon this Mother’s Day Sunday about life on the vine. My favorite nuggets were:
* Being fruitful, adding to the kingdom continually.
* We are to be on the vine, because without the vine we can do nothing, without Jesus we can do nothing.
* The fruit of the spirit is produced IN the disciple, not BY the disciple.
* People will see the disciple way before they see Jesus.
* Being on the vine is deeply relational.
* What would it be like to truly say, “I’m just dependent on Jesus to lead me through”?

What about all this? Well, I’m sure God has seen it all. What can this world do to us if he is with us? 'If God is for us, who can be against us?' If we are truly dependent on him, and also fruitfully adding to the kingdom continually, then this is where true life begins. Hard to do in times of struggle, times of frustration, but always a good place to reach for. It has been over a year since the referral of Koko to us, when we were officially matched. I remember last Mother’s Day clearly, still on that high of seeing her face for the first time…But then, we keep going, clinging to all things good in our lives, working hard at being fruitful, trusting that, even though forward movement seems foggy at best, in time we will see her face in person. Some day.

Some day when it’s time…

Happy Mother’s Day,
smj

DREAM ON

2009-05-01T17:44:00.001-06:00

Blog post disclaimer: I never want to come across as too whiney or complain-ey; after all, we signed up for this whole adoption thing…

But, alas, it helps me to process and maybe vent a little on the blog.

Bottom line. I want her home so bad it hurts. The controlling part of me just can’t stop perseverating on the powerless part of it all. We are powerless to do anything or affect any timelines at this point. We can’t make anyone hurry this up – it feels so ridiculous. I know the human condition is such that people make mistakes, don’t move on the same seemingly urgent timelines, they don’t have the same strong feelings about different things. Good thing, and bad thing, I guess.

The pain is real, though.
It’s so real that I just stop and cry every so often.
It’s so real that a few choice foul and angry words occasionally come out of my mouth.
It’s so real that I look for someone to blame.
It’s so real that, once in a while, I can’t fathom the reality of Koko coming home.

But then, I know it will happen – it’s just another frailty of the human condition to wallow in the negatives of ‘what ifs’ and ‘woe is me’.

(voice from somewhere) “Snap. Snap.” “Snap out of it, Susan!” “Or are you Debbie Downer?!?”

This morning as I drove to work I allowed myself to do a little imagining, as I tend to do from time to time. I imagined that we finally got a phone call from Jessica telling us we are finally parents. I try to imagine where we will be when that call comes, or better, when it will come. And then I imagine that we joyfully scramble to pack, get plane tickets, a place to stay – nothing will be more important than getting there.

And then…
And then…we get there, and we get to hold our daughter for the first time, the girl we’ve been watching grow since 2 months old. We hold her and it is a moment like no other…

Mmmmmmmmm…..
Ahhhhhhhh…..
So nice….

(the voice again) “Snap. Snap.” “Snap out of it, Susan!” “You, dreamer, you.”

Stay tuned…because I know when it happens, it will be so much better than my silly little daydream, the real thing will send even more goose bumps and joyful tears. I know life will never be the same.

My little dreamy doggie just stood up on his back legs with his paws on the couch (this is how he asks to be picked up) and so I picked him up and set him next to me, he curled up in a little ball next to me (pretty darn comforting), as if he knows…maybe he knows his little cute-ness is a little tiny help, when I’m a little tiny sad.

Here's to all the silly dreamers out there.
Smj out.

SOMETHING TO CONSIDER IN THE WORLD OF ADOPTION

2009-04-25T19:39:00.005-06:00

Pike's Peak

"Restlessness and discontent are the first necessities of progress."

- Thomas Edison

WE VOTED

2009-04-16T13:48:00.002-06:00

We voted and the decision is in --

NO MORE of these crazy, past ridiculous, heart wrenching "mini" updates on all these documents they're trying to get ahold of. Dear Jessica called today to say it was a no go on getting the document today - will try next week...ONLY, we won't necessarily know the outcome since we've elected to have Jessica call us only when all documents are obtained and our file is ready to be submitted for a court date. I'm not sure what way is more torturous, but we'll see how this new plan goes.

We now brace everyone for a few more potential weeks of no news (based on the current speed of things).

Someone mentioned how balanced we sound. That was a generous statement! Maybe it sounds that way, but...TRUST ME, my emotions are greatly waxing and waning at this point.

Thank you for loving us through all of this...we love you, too.

smj

DOCUMENT # 1

2009-04-15T14:22:00.003-06:00

A Journey to Document #1…

3/13 – News from Jessica that we are finally scheduled for local court on 3/16 to get Document #1.

3/16 – power outage at the local courts, try again tomorrow.

3/17 – power still out, try again tomorrow.

3/18 – power back on, but come back Tuesday 3/24.

3/24 – come back Friday 3/27

3/27 – Document #1 obtained, hopeful to get Document #2 next Friday 4/3.

4/3 – We’re in Haiti and get word that Document #2 was not obtained and that they will try again the following week.

4/7 – Jessica calls to say that Document #1 needs to be redone and that they will have to go back to local court.

4/8 – They are told to come back Tuesday 4/14.

4/14 – Jessica calls to say they’re not sure if they got Document #1 because the phone lines were down.

4/15 – Jessica calls to say they didn’t get Document #1. They hope to get it tomorrow (4/16) but aren’t sure if it will happen.

We now resign ourselves to the fact that Document #1 may not be obtained this week or for another week, or more, as we’ve grown accustomed to...

We are frustrated. Please pray for us.

Smj out

SUNSET

2009-04-06T19:30:00.004-06:00

We are filled up, wide-eyed, moved, exhausted - all at the same time, upon finally making it home from Haiti today. We spent several hours at the airport in Port-au-prince yesterday, waiting to get on a very delayed flight that caused us to miss our connection out of Miami, spent the night there, then got up at the crack of dawn (no roosters crowing to wake us up like we experienced each morning at 2 a.m. in Haiti!), to get to Dallas, then finally in to Denver this afternoon. We will sleep well tonight. There is much to tell, but not tonight. In addition to our weariness, I am also still processing everything and everyone we saw and experienced face to face. Oh my, I will never forget all I saw, and now look forward to another trip to see our Haitian sisters, brothers, friends, someday down the road.

Sad news we recieved while in country - the news of dad's brother passing suddenly - shocking and difficult to imagine how his family is now trying to make sense of it all. It was something, hearing the news while being immersed in the story of the poverty and struggles that the country of Haiti is dealing with. The sun set that night on the hills outside of Jacmel, just the same way it sets over Nebraska, and everywhere - we are all connected around the world, we are all reminded that life is always changing, we are called to remember those who go before us, and we are called to honor those people in love by our truth and action - how we choose to live, what we choose to live for. (1 John 3:18) Haiti reminded me of this.

Mmmmm...so much to process - I promise to share more in the upcoming days. Promise.

Lastly, it seems that Document #2 in the adoption paperchase seems to be a bit elusive as well. The in country team was unable to get a hold of it this last Friday, so we are hoping for better luck this coming Friday. I will update again at the end of the week on the status.

love you,
smj out - to sleep.

NEWS AND HAPPY TRAILS...

2009-03-27T17:13:00.002-06:00

Family,

We received word today from Jessica that our case has made it through the local courts, and we now have the very infamous Document #1. This now means that we are on to Document #2 (let's hope this one doesn't become infamous) - earliest possible best case scenario time frame on getting a hold of that one is next Friday. We wait again. It really makes me think of the old fable telling the story of "slow and steady wins the race". Verrrrrry slowly we take tiny steps forward toward Koko. Thoughts of her give us lumps in our throats and aches in our hearts. It is so hard to explain, truly.

We know there are a lot of steps to get there....and there are a lot of other families still running their own verrrrry long, slow and steady races to get there. We always, always remember that we are not alone, not by a long shot.

Congratulations to all the families with new referrals and new court dates out there in blog land! And a huge thank you to folks who have generously given their time in-country to snap a few photos of our little Koko. You may not know just how thankful we are to have those few beautiful photos. We just want you to know you are special - we can't wait to pay it forward someday.

Finally, Chad and I are off to Haiti this weekend, after he does a wedding ceremony in Loveland - it's off to the airport tomorrow night to spend a week walking alongside the children of Haiti, learning from them in their persistent effort to make something of themselves and their country. I am humbled to be a part of the trip, my first time, and just one of many over the last few years for Chad. I know I will be changed, and am honored to be a part of something bigger than myself, something so much bigger than my own little world here in suburbia. I can't wait to tell you all about it when we get back - and so...

...we'll be back in blog land in a week - signing off...

smj out -- to see more of the world

PS - Scott and Tyler - we had a rockin' good time with you watching March Madness and eating Chinese! Thanks for stopping by! Love you!

2009-03-24T15:23:00.002-06:00

Really.

It's just a piece of paper.

So...I could look at this two ways --

1) It's just paper! Seriously, is there a reason for the torture of prolonging this process over a piece of paper!?!

OR

2) It's just paper (or tree pulp as Grace put it) - paper can't possibly stand in the way of a future of happiness with Koko as part of our family. We will be strong and faithful.

And so, "come back Friday" is the latest directive to Gladney's in country staff. I'm specifically going to be praying for Document #1. "Dear document #1, please find your way into our file so that we can get on to Document #2, Document #3, and a court date in Addis, and a favorable ruling, and a reunion with Koko that will be the most amazing unforgettable moment in our lives."

"Fri-day. Fri-day. Fri-day."

The cheers are starting to quiet down slightly, but don't worry they're still there.

Love to you all,
smj out

SHINY NEW SPRING

2009-03-22T15:23:00.010-06:00

Guido is a shiny little light in our house. A shiny, crazy, nutty little light. The joy he brings when we arrive home, greeted by his jumping and insane licking, his sweet playfulness, and yes, his perplexing need to eat ANYTHING but his own food, is all so priceless!

Feed the BEAST!

"I'm begging you, please, I DESPERATELY NEED your food, not mine."

"Please let me outside so I can eat more squirrel poo, oh please, please, please."

______________________________________

Spring is definitely springing around our house. The first crocus and daffies are up, and I am reminded that soon they will be gone, and the tulips will bloom as also the perennials begin again...a constant cycle, much as the cycle of our lives as we live through the seasons, not just the calendar seasons, but also the seasons of life - the ups, the downs, the in-betweens, the joys, the sadness, excitement and worry...

Oh, how we are glad it is spring. A favorite season, a time we live life in anticipation, in the hope that spring can bring when we may least expect it. We are so glad to see you, spring!

Onward!
smj

SORTA?

2009-03-18T17:35:00.003-06:00

Power on. Check.
People present. Check.
Come back Tuesday. Alrighty then.

So, we're back to the "TUES-DAY" cheer.

Got an update on Koko today:
"Yesterday, when I came by to visit she was outside with her roommates sunbathing. She seems to enjoy her time outside, and may grow up to be a lover of the outdoors. Today when I stopped by she was taking a nap. Her caregivers tell me she is doing great, and is very playful.” --Emily

And then there's Guido. He's having a little poo problem. Ate something in the back yard (he eats EVERYTHING HE SEES) that likely gave him a poo infection....so....not really delightful. I've been laundering blankets for the last couple days from his crate time that he couldn't help soiling, poor little dude. He went to the vet today, got doggy antibiotics and a shot in the rump. He was pretty pathetic, whining and clawing at me and all. Now he's successfully down for a nap, the dreamy little guy. Doesn't this qualify as mommy practice time or something?!?

Any dog lovers out there have any tips on how we get him to STOP EATING EVERYTHING HE SEES OUTSIDE???!!!! Short of putting a muzzle on him when we go out to potty...which is not something that we want to do, what can we do? The minute we go out - he finds something to eat - you know, leaves, sticks, bark mulch, squirrel poo - EEEEEEEW, GROSS! Everything is tasty to him. And it's not like he's not eating his doggy food well. He'll just keep getting sick if he doesn't grow out of this nasty habit.

Oh well, he's keeping us occupied for sure.

Onward!

smj out.

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

2009-03-17T10:37:00.002-06:00

LUCKY US!!!

The power is out AGAIN in ET. Will try again tomorrow.

Oh, the humanity! We NEED power!

"WEDNES-DAY. WEDNES-DAY. WEDNES-DAY."

Oh, please be lucky Wednesday...

EDITED STILL HOLDING OUR BREATH...

2009-03-15T14:42:00.010-06:00

Jessica just called (10a.m.MDT 3/16/09) to say that due to a power outage today in ET, they will try again tomorrow to obtain the infamous Document #1. Stay tuned...

"TUES-DAY. TUES-DAY. TUES-DAY."
(Still cheering over here.)

In honor of TUESDAY, please partake in our latest polling question. (Come on, it's a simple mouse click!) Inquiring minds are curious about what you think:

poll by twiigs.com

It's tough to choose just one, yes?

Anywho...we'll certainly let you know when we know something in adoption news. Stay tuned...

smj out.

HOLDING OUR BREATH

2009-03-13T14:07:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday blogwatchers.

I have little time, as I'm here at work snarfing down lunch and staring at my ever-expanding to do list...BUT...

Jessica called today. Please join us as we "hold our breath" for a hopefully successful day Monday. A day we desperately hope to hear good news that we are on our way to getting ahold of document #1 of 3. Documents 2 and 3 should be forthcoming as soon as Document #1 is in hand. Then (and only then) can we finally wait (some more) to hear about an official court date assignment in Addis. Remember, team, even then, court dates are still being assigned several weeks out from request...but we'll take any sort of teeny weeny itty bitty step in the right direction.

"MON-DAY. MON-DAY. MON-DAY."
(I'm cheering for Monday.)

Send us (and the team of people helping to get this accomplished) some good vibes...

...fingers crossed...
...toes crossed...

...smj out

INDIA NITE

2009-03-07T12:14:00.007-07:00

It was India Gourmet Club at our house last night - we take turns with 4 other couples in the group hosting different themed dinner parties and it was our turn last nite. I had help getting the Sari on correctly from Lori - Chad brought it back for me from the last India Immersion trip. It was a good time - we had Tandoori Chicken, Aloo Saag, Naan Bread, and lots of other yummy Indian dishes. Chad even found a belly dancer to entertain us! Thanks for a good time everyone! (Brad and Amy - your "Indian" costumes were a total hoot!)

We did get news Thursday afternoon from Jessica that hopefully things are back on track again for them to work toward getting ahold of document number 1. Maybe they'll have it in a couple weeks, then it will be on to document number 2, then number 3, then we will be ready for our file to be submitted to the courts in Addis for a new court date. Court date assignmet is looking more like June-ish...we shall see. We keep up very guarded hopes. Know that we will keep you updated every step of the way.

Finally, what would a blog post be without some cute new pictures of Guido - he makes us smile!

love u all,

smj

ONE

2009-03-05T12:00:00.002-07:00

Koko is one year old today.

A beautiful one year old.

We can't wait to share her with everyone someday.

Someday...

Love you all,
smj

SO....NO TITLE TODAY.

2009-03-02T18:50:00.009-07:00

So, I'm just sitting here in silence trying to understand what the reason could possibly be that we continue to hear one bit of bad news (or no news) after another. Folks, it doesn't make sense.

Today was...
Well, today was another heart breaking day on the adoption front. Honestly I've tried not to be dramatic about the ongoing saga of delays that has epitomized our process, but today I really just can't sit around and say, "well, we'll just have to wait a little more, it's all out of our control." As if taking control of it ourselves would make the whole thing right.

We had hoped to hear a few days ago that a document was obtained to get us to the next step in the process of bringing Koko home. (Kind of like in National Treasure, you get a clue, to get another clue, to get another clue, yada yada yada.) Jessica says today that this first of three needed documents has still not been obtained because of currently unexplainable events involving people in the process. Sound cryptic? It is. Unfortunately rules dictate that I cannot give you details on line. Suffice it to say that we can't make sense of it.

Tears were flowing today. Um....we are faithful, faithful people. But I gotta tell ya -- hearing right now that this is some sort of "plan" is kinda tough. (just being honest)

Ok, fine. We will wait. It's what we HAVE to do. Koko is counting on us to be strong people (she just doesn't know it.) But this constant getting-our-hearts-squashed thing is getting me to feel yucko inside.

We are just thankful to have our wonderful family to hold us up when we need reminded to stay positive. If you think about it, pray for our strength over the next few weeks. And for these WONDERFUL PEOPLE, too.

Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. (Psalms 130:7)

Hey, Guido had his little 'parts' snip snipped last week and he got over it - we can learn from his shining example, I guess!

love you all,
smj

WHEN YOU'RE DONE CHANGING, YOU'RE DONE.

2009-02-28T20:24:00.006-07:00

Isn't it true....When you're done changing, you're done...

I originally found this quote while searching for something inspiring to share with families and staff at my new building, as there are quite a few things that I will gently need to "change" as we journey from good to great as a organization...no small task when things there have been pretty much status quo and maybe even a bit stagnant for the last 8 years.

But it also speaks to our journey to Koko. We've changed and learned a lot over the last few months, in fairly miniscule ways to a deeper changing of the heart and mind as we continue to grow in character. It continues to be hard, to wait, to stay positive to expect good news, to continue to be disappointed by yet another delay or road block in the process. We can't make sense of it, it's not possible to make sense of it because there is often no rhyme or reason to the process, we've learned.

So, for now, enough of trying to be all philosophical. Bottom line - we wait. It's what we do.

But hey - I found a little tiny Mickey Mouse in my box of Frosted Mini Wheats this morning and since I don't have a human child to give it to, of course I gave it to my furry-dog-child to play with. Guido's been rather attached to it all day. Also, he went with me to work today and apparently when I was working, some of the residents decided to feed him ham for lunch, or so it looked that way when he threw it up this afternoon on the couch. No offense sweet little elderly residents of the nursig home, but - NO PEOPLE FOOD FOR OUR DOGGIE! This is strictly not allowed. Chad said he's going to head over to the nursing home and take somebody out! (Right.) He's a protective furry-dog-child daddy. It's pretty sweet. I'm sure this is nothing compared to how huge his heart will swell for Koko when she's home! So, we dream, we keep counting the days/weeks, and we hope for a little good news when we least expect it.

Good night family,

smj

GUIDO-NESS

2009-02-14T21:13:00.009-07:00

Here's some dreamy Guido-ness for you this Valentine's Day. He's 6 months old now. Love to all!

smj

MMMMMMMMMM.....

2009-02-04T19:15:00.003-07:00

As I sit here fairly exhausted from finishing up with our annual state health department inspection today (they came in Monday, my first official day in my new facility here in Littleton, with a brand new management company, and tons of the new people in to help with the transition...), I find myself overwhelmed with lots of different feelings. Probably partly because I'm tired from 4 Looooong days at work, but I think mostly from the whole overwhelming enchilada of life. Sometimes it's like that, right? Lots of things happening all at the same time. I just have to sit back and let my mind take it all in...

a) There are BIG changes at work, with a new boat load of challenging but exciting expectations...it's got my mind so full...
b) A dreamy little doggie that doesn't seem to be getting a lot bigger (teeny and cute!) but who is now doing this new snorting, wheezing, sneezing, sniffling thing that seems concerning...(yes, we even worry about our "boy"!)
c) Knowing that our Immigration Approval is about to expire and that we have to start from scratch with a whole new homestudy agency since our old one went out of business - more paperwork, more check writing - Sooooo frustrating...
d) Keeping our expectations at bay with the knowledge that this adoption timeline just is unpredictable - we prepare ourselves for weeks more of waiting...

Oh the 'rush' of it all.

Jessica gave us a bit of news that basically says the process is moving, but that we are still on that same 'several weeks more' timeline. Someday it will happen, someday Koko will be in our arms...

someday when it's time.

May everyone have peace where ever life has you...
much love,
smj

I think I'll have a cold drink and let my doggie provide some much needed 'therapy' now!

A LITTLE BROKEN

2009-01-14T19:20:00.003-07:00

As expected,...it was a no go on today's court date.

Our file has been closed until all new paperwork is obtained. No new court date is being assigned until then. And the request for a new court date may not be made for a month or so yet. And once the request is made we shouldn't expect that new court date for 10+ weeks.

So...to give it to you straight - best case scenario is a May-ish court date.

I prefer not to do so much math.

This pretty much hurts.

It pretty much breaks our hearts.

It.

Breaks.

Our.

Hearts.

Folks, she's sprouting - growing like a weed.

Enjoy an update - for sure we will cling to every joyful word we receive about Koko over the next few months:

“She is looking good. When I came to visit she was out sunbathing with her roommates. As you can see from the photo, she is now sitting on her own. She is doing great, and seems to be doing something new with each week that goes by… such a quick learner. The caregivers say that she is eating well, and growing fast!”--Ryan
Weight: 7.8kg

Love to you all,

smj

DECEMBER KOKO UPDATE.

2008-12-30T20:19:00.002-07:00

“She still wants to put everything into her mouth that she can get a hold of, which including my shirt and papers! I guess that should be expected from a child of her age! Overall, she has been doing splendidly, is in good health, and looks terrific. As a result of growing both in size and developmentally, she has become much more comfortable when she is upright. She amazed me with how much weight she could bear on her legs; I wasn't even holding her, just keeping her balance! Speaking of balance, she is still trying to get the hang of sitting on her own. She is so close to being able to sustain it, just not quite there! Still, her strength is very evident, as is her confidence, and she has become even more courageous and curious of the things around her. She is a very calm little girl, and just loves it when you give her attention. She will soak up everything that you give her." --Phillip Weight: 7.3kg

Still no new update on where things are at with our case or how the progress is going with getting our file ready to submit for another new court date. Nada. We did recently get some beautiful photos of Koko from a traveling family. They’re gorgeous. We are so thankful. Truly. Since there is not other new news, how about this – just part of “Desiderata”, which I saw plastered on the wall in one of our resident’s rooms the other day. I liked most of it, cut out parts I didn’t, to share with you here:

Go, amid the noise and the haste,

and remember what peace there may be in silence.
If you compare yourself with others,

you may become vain or bitter,

for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Do not be blinded to what virtue there is;

many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.

Especially do not feign affection.

Neither be cynical about love,

for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,

it is as perennial as the grass.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,

no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God.

And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life,

keep peace in your soul.
With all its drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
- Max Ehrmann

Happy new year, we love you all,
smj

BACK TO THE BEGINNING

2008-12-07T13:23:00.010-07:00

As I left for worship this morning, without Chad who is feeling pretty crummy right now, I didn't know I would become so inspired by what I heard and saw, so let me share...

Our pastoral intern, Derek, preached today in Chad's place, on short notice. I felt as though he crafted the words around our current adoption situation. I know, sort of self centered. Anyway, (thanks in advance for letting me steal your material Derek) the sermon started out with some examples of going back to the beginning, starting over again, etc. He referred to the reading from Mark 1, about how John the Baptist called people to a new beginning. We are called back to the waters of baptism to be reminded that God has claimed us, that he's always been there, always will be. We are repeatedly called to open our eyes to see new life, to go out into the world, blessed to be a blessing. Hmmmmm...

You see, we learned Friday that we will go back to the beginning with our file in Ethiopia. Some things have changed with our case, and it is as if we just received our referral, that the last 7 months have evaporated (although they sure took a long time). At this point, our Jan. 14 court date is not happening. The team in Ethiopia will work on gathering all the necessary documents for our file before they can then submit to the courts for a court date. (Sound familiar, like June and July?) It is a new beginning in our case.

On my drive home from church, I heard Josh Groban's song Believe, from Polar Express. One line was particularly meaningful..."destinations are where we begin again". So, this latest inevitable destination, this new beginning in our adoption journey is where we find ourselves. Still yearning for the day we get to hold Koko in our arms. Because court dates are being scheduled about 8 weeks out from request, according to our agency, we shouldn't expect a court date till around March. We know we will celebrate Koko's first birthday milestone here without her. On May 7, 2008 when we saw her face for the first time, just after her 2 month birthday, we never would have dreamed of this whole heart and character growing process as it has unfolded. Never.

HOWEVER, we will be of good cheer! As Chad has just returned from India where the new sewing center was dedicated, here are some photos of the beautiful people, and the moving dedication ceremony.

And, more good news...a dear family at church finally made it home with their little Robinio from Haiti. He is gorgeous, about 4 years old, and loving his new family. This family has been through so much, and so many, many months of waiting to bring him home. I got to sit next to them, and it was an honor to get a big hug from him this morning. I had to work not to cry with happiness that they have finally been united.

Finally, I'm sure you've all been dying for an update on how Guido is doing. He's growing, his hair is longer, and energy high! He is slowly learning some potty training, including where to dance around waiting for his treat after he pottys! We are so in love with this little pup!

Here are my two boys - both pretty cute, if you ask me!

smj out.

AS ANTICIPATED...

2008-11-21T07:33:00.002-07:00

Based on our last conversation with Jessica, and as anticipated, we did not make it through court for the 3rd time, and now have our 4th attempt scheduled for January 14.

Please keep us in your prayers as we, ourselves, pray for strength and gracefulness during this latest period of waiting.

Many continued thanks to all who have been walking along side us through the journey. We are blessed to have so many blessings in our lives.

Love to all,
smj

GUIDO

2008-11-11T20:23:00.008-07:00

Well, it's time for some good news, some bad news, and some new news.

GOOD NEWS FIRST! KOKO UPDATE!

“I've mentioned before that she likes to keep her eyes wide open, in order to see everything that's going on around her. That hasn't changed one bit, except that now she has a different perspective – one from sitting! She is doing so much better at sitting on her own, though occasionally she will lose her balance and topple over to one side. She still occasionally leans forward to put her hands down in front of her – tripod style – but can push herself back up to upright if she wants! I wanted so badly to give you a smiling picture of her, but every time I made her giggle (done by holding her arms and letting her fall back, then pulling her up again), she stuck her hand right in her mouth. Obviously she hasn't figured out what "photo?" quite means yet! When she is not trying her best to sit, she has turned in to quite the squirmer, and can roll over quite quickly by flicking her leg over the other.” --Phillip -Weight: 7kg

BAD NEWS (and I mean fairly bad)

Caseworker Jessica called today to tell us that November 20 will not be a successful court hearing for our family. There are many things happening that will cause several more months of delays and, long story short, we are told not to expect any movement with our case until at least January. We are so very sad, so very devastated, so very hurt, and so very blown away that this process is unfolding as it is. What can we say - life isn't fair. There are no words. None. Also, there's some hurting going on over HERE, too - stop by and give 'em some lovin'.

NEW NEWS

This is Guido, the cutest little yorkie boy you've ever seen. He is 12 weeks old and in the middle of potty training. Pretty much spur of the moment, it was fate that we adopted him into our family today of all days. Fate for the previous owner and for us. Guido will provide some much needed diversion, a sweet distraction - we love him already!

Dreaming of days to come...

smj

UNTITLED

2008-11-09T13:17:00.005-07:00

"Imagination is more important than knowledge."
- Albert Einstein

Hmmmmm....think on that one.

Really not much to say, not much to tell, not much at all.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,...to him be glory...for ever and ever, amen."
- Ephesians 3:20-21

11 days to...

IMAGINE

2008-11-03T18:34:00.004-07:00

So, I gave a speech at church (all three services) this past weekend. I thought it would be pretty terrifying but it turned out to be a great opportunity to publicly state my views on our financial situation at church. No one threw tomatoes. The campaign theme is Imagine, and I'm stealing my own speech material to share with you for our latest blog update, since it fits this point in time so well.

Unlike my speech in church, I won't urge you here to give money to lower Abiding Hope's suffocating mortgage debt, but if you're feeling inspired, I obviously won't stop you. (Hey, I'm not beyond using our blog as a financial campaign marketing tool.) Anyway...getting back on topic, this waiting stuff is pretty tough!! As I hoped to spread the word to the congregation to imagine greater things for our church, I used this angle:

God is imagining bigger things, more for us than we could ever imagine. To illustrate, when we started this adoption process I imagined -
-the waiting and how hard it may be
-the feelings of anticipation
-and most of all what it would feel like to hold our baby girl in our arms.

Luckily God's imagination has been soooooo much bigger -
-He has opened my eyes to an immense growth in character
-to what patience ACTUALLY looks like
-and to the reality that there is a bigger need than just one child waiting to have a home.

I FINALLY finished "There is no me without you" - this is a must read. I promise you will intermittently cry (I did at least), and you wil have a deep understanding of the country where your future new little "family" member, Koko, was born. It is a moving read. Just do it.

And, to those who heard the speech, sorry to bore you with it again here. This big imagination, this stuff, is what we have to hold on to, along with imagining that this will happen someday, Koko will be in our arms someday...
...someday when it's time.

And so, our most sincere congratulations to the "newly-passed-court" families - we are totally thrilled for you! Awesome!
And to those who continue to faithfully wait (on your adoptions or anything else in life) we are with you - may you find peace in the waiting!

17 more days to court date re-replay.
Love to all,
smj

TRIBUTE TO THE BIRTHDAY BOY

2008-10-30T20:26:00.025-06:00

So...tuesday was a BIG day - a certain birthday boy turned 35! Of course we went out on the town to celebrate -- downtown Denver, Larimer Square.

We restaurant hopped, and window shopped. Here for you all now, in pictures...

First up, Larimer Square day time, about 5 p.m.

A kiss for a special guy at the Samba Room where we had a drink and appetizers.

On to Tamayo for tasty guacamole, margaritas, and present opening time.

A framed photo of Koko.

Then to Ted's for a bison burger, Chad's favorite.

After dinner we walked off our appetizers, drinks, and burgers and window shopped.

Larimer Square, night time, about 8 p.m.

On to ESPN Zone for some air hockey (guess who won? that wouldn't be me.)

FINALLY - we were ready for dessert at Corridor 44.

So....do you now feel like you were there?!? We had a fantastic time, and now...

...20 days to court date re-re-play. Is it just us or are the days crawling by unusually slowly?...probably just us. We can't wait to share that big news, the big something with you all someday....

....someday when it's time.

Onward!

smj

FLOWERS CHANGING INTO NOVEMBER...

2008-10-25T12:20:00.014-06:00

~ The 'Amen!' of nature is always a flower. ~

- Oliver Wendall Holmes -

I think it is amazing that flowers are still blooming around our house...we've had several frosts and a hard freeze now. I'm sure this will be the last of the blooms, and so wanted to share the beauty with you.

The flowers are carrying us into yet another season. A season of change, and hopefully a season of new joys...25 days to court date re-re-play. Still dreaming of Koko...

smj

CONNECTIVITY

2008-10-18T16:44:00.011-06:00

From here,
Our church community, Abiding Hope in Littleton…
http://www.abidinghopelutheran.org/

To here,
Our friends in Haiti…
http://www.hopeinhaiti.org/

To here,
Our world makers in India…
http://www.geocities.com/titus_worldpeace

To here,
Koko in Ethiopia…

During this newfound time of waiting and reflection, I thought I’d ramble on the wonderful thought of connectivity. It’s a small world, where we are connected in BIG ways!

Our friends from our Abiding Hope church community, the ever strong families who are steadfast in their adoption journeys to Haiti to bring their little ones home….they are on our hearts!

Our partners in Haiti building relationships and empowering the kids of Haiti to dream big to help transform Haiti for the future…they are on our hearts!

Our friend, Titus, in India, and the congregations of Abiding Hope India that he has been working to build amidst persecution…they are on our hearts!

Chad leaves to spend time in India November 20. Hmmmmmm…..I know that day……oh, yeah! That’s our court date! It promises to be interesting…and proof that we are connected in BIG ways!

So, to all hoping our small story fits in to this big ol’ plan….we are all somehow interconnected, and touch each other in ways we may not even realize…

God, may we all realize our potential to be world makers, connecting, relating for the good, to be faithful to His plan. It’s not an easy task! In fact, sometimes it’s darn hard to understand and we get sad and angry at the things we see in the world. Like children in Haiti sold on the streets as slaves for $100USD, like people killed in India for being Christian, like 4.6 million orphans in Ethiopia. In the words of super case worker Jessica this week, “thank goodness we have HIM to rely on in these incredibly frustrating and emotionally draining times!” This is on our hearts!

Finally, (after all that rambling), here’s to our little “connection” in Ethiopia – we can’t wait to touch your face, feel you against our hearts, and be your family. Our latest update:

“She likes to keep her eyes open as wide as they can go most of the time that she is awake, in order to take absolutely everything in that she can. She is so close to being able to sit on her own! When you pull her to a sitting position and hold her hands, she thinks it is the most amazing thing in the world. Currently, she has perfected the leaning forward sit, supported by her hands. She has become quite adept at using her hands as well, and will pass things between two hands as she examines them. She does love her toes, and that being said, she still tries to eat anything that she can get her hands on, including my papers.” --Phillip

Weight: 15.4 pounds

In the picture we received with this update, her eyes are BIG and WIDE! Perhaps wide open as if to say, “There’s so much to see, so much to do!” Right on Koko! We are with you!

Peace to all,
smj

ESCAPE

2008-10-16T20:01:00.012-06:00

So...we escaped yesterday afternoon, just needed to get some fresh air! No better place to get fresh air than the Rockies! Just a short drive out of Littleton is the bumpy, washboardy drive over Guanella Pass to Georgetown...we took off and in no time we were in the snow. It was beautiful and brisk!

Here's Georgtown from above - love this little town!

Once we got to Georgtown, of course we had to do a little Chocolate, Caramel Popcorn, and Ice Cream Cone shopping at the best candy shop ever. Seem like a lot of sugar? Hey, it was what we needed at the time! Mmmmmmmm!

Ice Cream Cone. Gone.

Then we had a couple burgers at this cozy little restaurant. There were fun signs all over the restaurant..."Wait." It seemed like a "sign". I guess, a sign that we will wait a little longer...!

And then there were the mashed potatoes. We had a discussion about how perplexing it was that the waitress told us they don't serve french fries, and they don't serve baked potatoes, but they could serve me mashed potatoes...? (They were real, by the way, and TASTY! - comfort food!)

So....there was our afternoon yesterday, in photo review for you. More faithful waiting ahead, more dreaming of Koko....COME ON NOVEMBER 20! HURRY!

Blessings to all the waiting families - we know how you feel, we know this will happen, we know that there is amazing life to live! Remember, "HERE I AM" waiting to see the story unfold.

Peace,

smj

PLAN C

2008-10-15T12:08:00.002-06:00

The pieces did not come together, ONCE AGAIN.

Because of this, our case did not even have a chance in court today.

ONCE AGAIN, we are heart-broken.

Heart-broken with even some anger thrown in.

So...moving on to Plan C, we have ANOTHER new court date scheduled for November 20.

ANOTHER several weeks to wait.

Our hearts hurt, hurt, hurt....

ONCE AGAIN, no other words...

Trying hard to keep the faith,
smj and cdj

HERE I AM

2008-10-13T17:51:00.003-06:00

"Sometimes your calling, comes in dream

Sometimes it comes in the Spirit's breeze,

You reach for the deepest hope in me,

And call out for the things of eternity.

When setbacks and failures, and upset plans,

Test my faith and leave me with empty hands,

Are you not the closest when it's hardest to stand?

I know that you will finish what you began.

I'm just one of the pieces,

I can't put this together but you can.

Here I am, Lord send me,

All of my life, I make an offering,

Here I am, Lord send me,

Somehow my story, Is part of your plan,

Here I am."

- Downhere, “Here I Am”

The big day is nearing. As I reflect (and hope and pray!), I remember that through the ups and downs and the roller coaster of emotions we have both struggled with and rejoiced in, we did at the beginning of this journey say, “here I am”.

Have a listen…

We know that however the pieces come together this “story” is a part of His plan. Our “story” is an offering.

Ever faithful and hoping for amazing, life-changing, heart-filling news on Wednesday…

smj out

COLORFUL AND FAITHFUL

2008-10-07T17:41:00.011-06:00

Mom and I took a drive into the mountains this past weekend and got in on the peak of the fall colors. It was gorgeous and so much more amazing in person. These amateur digital photos will have to do...to give you a picture of the beauty.

And, this....I pulled out of our digital photo archive; I thought it was appropriate at this point on our journey to Koko.

We'll know something in another week...

faithful and praying,

smj

WHICH DO YOU WANT FIRST?

2008-09-30T17:43:00.007-06:00

The good news is that we recently got another update on our little poptart!

“She is as bright eyed as ever. Not only does she love playing with the toys in her bed, but also can be seen trying to wear her purse on her feet! Ever fashion conscious, she is precious, and very expressive to those around her. She can almost sit on her own now, but just hasn't quite gotten the whole balance thing down yet. She doesn't seem to mind too much though, for she loves being pulled up and gently rolling back onto her pillows!” –Travis

Weight = 15.4 pounds

The "potential" bad news is this: (One hopes a phone call from super caseworker Jessica at this point in the process would be a joyful one, but no.) Jessica tells us that there is a chance that there could be delays on the big day, October 15. If things don't go as we hope in court, then we are unclear how long the process may be delayed. We are definitely praying hard now...

In peace and prayer,

smj & cdj

ON THE MOVE

2008-09-18T20:54:00.005-06:00

*** KOKO UPDATE! ***

"This girl is ready to move! She is flopping and grunting and with good speed, too! The desire to sit still and look pretty has passed! She is obviously still gorgeous, head to toe; and I mean toe! I almost sent a picture of her toes; they are perfect! She can almost sit without support." -- Travis

Weight - 14.52 lbs.

She is still being treated for Atopic Eczema and is also being treated for an upper respiratory infection.

So then, we are now counting down a second time. We are just under 4 weeks to court date re-play, October 15. The good news is that there is lots of life going on! We are blessed with work and meetings, and Sunday School, and so many other events happening during this busy 'almost fall' time of year. You all know how it goes...! Life is ON THE MOVE!

Onward!

IT'S FOOTBALL SEASON!

2008-08-31T18:06:00.007-06:00

In honor of this most wonderful time of year (Go Huskers), we proudly share with you all the latest update on our bundle of beautifulness.

“She is so pretty! Sometimes, I feel rude when I am holding her because I just sit and stare! I started watching my manners after I saw the beating she gave her toy football! She hit and kicked this football until I thought the stuffing would come out! Then she would bite it and yell at it and when it was all over; she was laughing! Come to think of it, she was wearing a smile the entire time! It was an intimidating show of aggression! No more stares! She can roll over (one way) and 'razz' (make a wet razzing sound).” --Travis

Weight- 14.11 pounds
Her fast breathing has subsided and the Conjunctivitis has cleared.
She continues with cream for her Atopic Eczema.

It's hard to believe that in a few short days she will be 6 months old. The pictures we have recently received are evidence of her growing so fast...our future daughter is truly a sweet little girl.

ARE YOU KIDDING!!!????!!! WE ARE ABSOLUTELY READY TO MEET THIS GIRL!

But....ok....for now, we watch football! Bring it on!

smj

SNAPPING... Edited

2008-08-17T14:48:00.007-06:00

...Out of it.

Ok, so....we're snapping out of it. Hope springs eternal and it occurred to me that perhaps a shiny new post on the blog may be a good idea.

Hey, we have A LOT to be thankful for. We just celebrated ten (10!!!) years of marriage. Wha? For real? No way. 10 years? What an amazing 10 years. Here's to amazing things in the next 10!

We have a ton of "family" loving on us and praying and being wonderful.

We have a court date and some seriously wonderful travelling families offering to take seriously precious time from their travel itineraries to get some photos (and maybe video!) of our little Koko. Wow. Really, wow.

Michael Phelps and Nastia Liukin are excellent diversions from adoption uncertainty.

And...a little family we know got some great news! Click here!

So, it's not all gloomy, even though I don't think we will ever be fond of the kind of rain that creates it's own entire season.

Someday we will be with Koko...

...someday when it's time.

For now, we will simply share Koko's tiny hands and feet with you, brought to us all by the Kennedy's. (THANK YOU KENNEDY'S!)

-smj

PLAN B

2008-08-05T12:01:00.002-06:00

Jessica just called.

Birthmother did not appear in court today, and will not be able to appear tomorrow either.

New plan. Court date October 15.

It feels as though time is now standing still.

No other words to express our feelings right now.

We ache for our baby girl.

smj out

BUMPY ROAD

2008-08-04T14:33:00.004-06:00

Jessica called today to tell us that Belay in country was told baby's birthmother must now appear in court - even though she already officially relinquished and she wasn't supposed to have to be there again. The document stating the relinquishment does not read correctly and she will have to relinquish again in court. Making this happen Tuesday or Wednesday (before the 2 month court closure) may prove to be a difficult task, given the fact that birthmother does not live in Addis, but is currently somewhere outside of the city. Belay has not yet spoken with her but rather to the orphanage director where birthmother took Koko. He will attempt to find her in an effort to get her into court before the closure. It is unknown if there will be time to make this happen, but Jessica assures us they will do everything they can to find her. She said she will contact us tomorrow to let us know where things stand.

We are worrying, praying, hearts hurting.
smj

SOMETHING NICE FOR AUG 1

2008-08-01T15:22:00.003-06:00

Although 26 months was the early leader, 22 pulled ahead - YES! An elephant gestates a crazy long 22 months before FINALLY being born!

Hey! We received a new photo and update from Jessica and Joanna today. Even though we can't show the photo here, trust me when I say, it's the best one yet! She has a beautiful smile! What is apparent is that she is changing, growing fast.

Enjoy the update:

“She is laughing! And a lot of other things, too! Up to the end of the 4th month on her developmental chart she lacks only these things: roll over (one way), say ah-goo or other vowel-consonant combo, razz (make a wet razzing sound), sit without support and object if you take a toy away! She strained to do more; arms and legs moving every which way! The desire is definitely there! She is also developing a little attitude! She does not know what she wants but is not afraid to ask anyway! ‘Play with me!’ ’Hold me!’ ‘Do something, don’t just stand there!’ With cheeks like hers, I will keep trying!” --Joanna
Weight- 12.57 pounds
She is being treated for Atopic Eczema with cream.

Court date in T-minus 4 days and counting - August 5.
Fingers crossed, hoping, praying.

smj

TIME KEEPS ON TICKING, TICKING, TICKING

2008-07-29T18:22:00.011-06:00

Time is ticking...

Just so you know...

1. Tomorrow I get the delightful gift of travel shots - FUN!

2. Chad just got back from several days in Haiti - another great immersion experience. Someday I'll get there.
3. "Family", you rock!

And, now, for a diversion while time is ticking by...

New voting poll question:

Chad's latest term of endearment for our future daughter is "little elephant baby". Sounds interesting, yes? And, just to clarify, it is NOT related to her size! But rather more generally related to the length of time we have been invested in this process. So....take a guess, and no surfing the net to find the answer!

poll by twiigs.com

ONWARD!

Love to all!

T MINUS 20 DAYS AND COUNTING...

2008-07-16T11:06:00.003-06:00

...To August 5 - Court Date Time! (JESSICA, WE NEEDED THIS FAB NEWS-THANK YOU!)

Prayers for a successful court hearing so we can get on a plane to bring her home maybe end of August or beginning of September - not sure....?

We got another update today as well!

"She is a ‘Beaut’! She is steadily filling in boxes on her developmental chart and only lacks these; ’roll over’,’ reach for an object’,’ say ah-goo or other vowel-consonant combo’ and ’on stomach, raise chest supported by arms’. She almost got her chest up but I could not give it to her! I told her you would love her just the same! She is a quiet child, for now.” --Joanna and Travis

Weight- 12.35 pounds

According to Joanna, she was diagnosed with Conjunctivitis and experienced some fast breathing. She was treated with some antibiotics. We assume the treatments are going well and look forward to another update soon!

Dreaming of days to come...
smj out

A LITTLE LOVIN'

2008-07-10T22:59:00.004-06:00

The loving is overwhelming and, well…......wow.

An amazing, wonderful young woman and friend sent this email today:

“I’m praying for you pc [pastor chad], and for you and susan’s continued patience and trust in god. I was reading my bible last nite and I was thinking of you when I was reading 1 peter. It was chapter 5 and verses 7-10 and it was about how he wants us to give up all our worries and anxiety because he loves us so much. And even though we are going to have to have this anxiety- like probably you and susan have for waiting on getting to have koko with you - god says even sometimes tough times in life will happen but the more important thing, and what he tells us to put our faith and trust in, is that no matter what, god loves us and will provide for us thru all things and in his time our anxiety and tough times will pass. I just liked these verses and thought of you when I read it. Since you are a pastor you already know about it but I still wanted to tell you.”

Thank you dear friend, and trust me, we are BOTH honored to hear this encouragement from you, even the pastor half of us.

We got a little something good via snail mail today. Recall a while back that we had to be re-fingerprinted for our CIS approval…we’ve been waiting patiently for our updated I-171H fingerprint renewal to arrive (we have to have this for travel), and IT CAME TODAY! YAY! Just a little more sunshine for the day. Next we need a court date. Someday….

….when it’s time.

Found this online – this is for us all!
Stay Tuned.

Onward-smj

DREAMING ON

2008-07-07T21:14:00.004-06:00

Dreaming of becoming parents…

Mmmmm…How to describe the feelings we have, what it will be like to nurture our sweet girl, our beautiful gift, and what it will be like to grow with her, give to her, learning as we go…

She is first in our thoughts, inevitably.

Oh, how we are ready! Oh, how we have yearned to be able to give ourselves to another in a completely new and amazing way! The heart pounds more often now, the anticipation grabs a hold of us firmly at times.

Then there are the peaceful times. The times where we sit and dream and hope and pray. Calm, faithful, assured of the coming together as a family. We know. We are steadfast. We are living in the here and now, as we are called to, growing every day, eyes bright and wondering….

...What will it be like?

Oh, the blessing this heart growing journey is.

To our “family” – we are waiting with you all – as we say, someday we will have that BIG ‘something’ to share…

…someday when it’s time.

Peace be with you all.

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES!

2008-07-04T23:02:00.008-06:00

OK - so, here's a not so great shot taken with Chad's phone at the Rockies game Wednesday night. How about those Rockies tonight, huh?!?!? An 18 - 17 win!?!?! The come back kids! Suh-weet!

And here's another with the fireworks at a friend's house tonight.

Oh, and we wanted to show solid proof of the car seat fitting in the Mustang - it's true. It's really true! Another Suh-weet!

Happy Independence Day family!

"BEAUTIFUL AND INTIMIDATING!"

2008-07-03T17:25:00.004-06:00

Jessica called today. She said the relinquishment went through as scheduled and that our files are ready to be submitted to the courts for a court date - finally! We learned about Koko 8 weeks ago. We will not hear about a court date for several days yet, but at least it is forward movement. Come on court date! Delays be gone! Honestly, we have no idea how this is going to turn out but we will continue to be faithful and encouraged.

New update from Joanna:

"She is a beautiful little girl with soft features and an intimidating stare. She seals the deal with an abundance of smiles but can stare a hole completely through you! She combines all of this with an incredibly strong grip that will make you think twice about crossing her!"

So, family:

Be of good cheer! Do not think of today's struggles, but of the success that may come tomorrow. You have set yourselves a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere; and you will find joy in overcoming obstacles. Remember, no effort that we make to attain something beautiful is ever lost. -Helen Keller

Love to all - onward.

WE ROCK

2008-06-28T10:01:00.005-06:00

Sometimes we rock in the rocking chair in Koko's room. One without the other, in silence, in solitude, in thought, in prayer...

When will we meet her? This summer, this winter? Hmmmm, only time will tell.

Koko rocks. She just doesn't know it yet!

My boss (of all people) was most "real" this week when we were in conversation and she said, "it will happen, Susan". Awfully simple words, but strangely comforting at the same time. We know this, and we trust it.

A beloved "family" member said in a letter to us this past week (you know who you are!) while wishing us an "overabundance of peace and holy patience", that "One day Koko will be told the story of how you did whatever it took, and that there was no mountain high enough, no river wide enough, and no valley deep enough to keep you from finally getting to her."

It is these powerful words of encouragement that we carry with us through the days.

How can we help you all to know how much we love you!

____________________________

Great news!!! A "back up" car seat from M&J (thanks guys!) actually fits in the back of the Mustang....you know what that means! The Mustang will remain in the family for now. The Pathfinder will be our main mode of transport and so it goes....problem solved...(for now)!

THANK YOU for your well thought-out voting on the alternatives. (The Hummer was a poignant option.)

____________________________

Hey - prayers for Chad - he's feeling under the weather. For a guy who is seriously on-the-go at all times, feeling bad is a serious problem!

Prayers for the relinquishment hearing on Monday, for baby's birthmother, and for more news of forward movement.

Love to you all,

smj

SOMETHING AND DREAMING

2008-06-20T18:00:00.007-06:00

It's something...

We heard that baby's birthmother is scheduled for a relinquishment meeting in her hometown (not Addis) on June 30. If this occurs as scheduled, this means she will not need to be present at our scheduled court date - whenever that may be.

Jessica says Belay (in-country rep) is waiting on one more document for the files before he can submit them for a court date. It is unknown how much longer it may take to get ahold of this document (needed from an official office in the birth mother's hometown).

It's news. It's something.

We love you. ***REMEMBER: One of these days we will have something really BIG and GREAT to share with you. We don't know when...but please stay with us.

Keep dreaming of beautiful things to come....

smj out.

FAMILY

2008-06-13T19:59:00.008-06:00

“Cute! Cute! Cute! And her personality is a perfect match! She is constantly smiling and warming up her vocal chords with “Eeey, Eeey” sounds! And in between all the talking is laughing! She is very playful and outgoing and overall, an extremely happy baby! She has started making a small fist with her pointer fingers sticking out! I imagine she is pointing to me, to tell the world who her favorite person is! Did I mention cute?” –Joanna J

Weight- 11.02 pounds

We got this update from Joanna in country today, and a new picture, too. Oh, thank you Joanna!

Thank you "family", all of you, our big wonderful family from Nebraska, South Dakota, Colorado, Washington and everywhere in between! I'm so sorry that each time you all lovingly ask "any news?", that I don't have anything for you....it's tough. I heard someone say last week that they have already started to form a bond with their little one from ET, only just through the pictures they have. It's true. An interesting phenomenon, but true. The bond is already being formed, it's hard to describe to people.

So, soon...hopefully soon, we will have news about a court date...

Thank you for your love, support, and question asking! Keep it up. One of these days we will have something BIG to say...

"You are our sunshine, our only sunshine, you make us happy when skies are gray. You never know dear, how much we love you, so please don't take our sunshine away!"

Keeping the hope and faith,

smj

SUPER GOOD DEAL!!!

2008-06-08T16:02:00.009-06:00

So this weekend, dad and Billie were in town and we had a ball hitting the garage sale circuit. Smokin' good deals.

We got this perfectly cheap rocking chair that fits perfectly in our nursery:

And this oh so cute bathing suit and cover up:

And this funky giraffe wine bottle holder for a buck: (I know, not a necessity, but we like it!)

And this totally cute fluffy bunny for a quarter: (I washed it, don't worry. I can't resist most fluffy adorable stuffed animals.)

And although not a garage sale purchase, we found the right diaper bag that Chad or I can haul around, without frills or pink, etc.!

It felt good to get some great deals while preparing for Koko to come home hopefully soon. The latest word from our agency is pretty much the same for us, different week. We are waiting for them to gather all the necessary documents and information for our file to submit to the courts for a court date. We are staying positive and looking forward to the day we see our first beautiful baby in person, although the pictures of her are what helps us through the days right now...

Onward - smj.

WHAT TO DO...

2008-06-03T21:56:00.008-06:00

Such turmoil. Such agony. Such stress!! Yes, Chad is pretty wrought with emotion over what to do with his beloved Mustang. This is tough stuff.

NEW VOTING POLL QUESTION: Because of the challenge of trying to fit a car seat in the back of this thing, Chad would like help in deciding what vehicle he should consider replacing it with. (Oh the pain of the thought.) The choices are: (notice 'minivan' is not an option)

1. Ford Escape Hybrid

2. Toyota Prius

3. Nissan Altima

4. Nissan Murano

5. Jeep Wrangler 4-door

6. Used Saab from Craig's List (2003 or older)

7. Subaru Outback or variation

Click on comments at the end of this post. Enter your vote. Sign your name. Type in the letters you see for verification. Click on 'anonymous'. EASY!

CHAD NEEDS YOUR HELP DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME IN HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS MUSTANG.

Ok. On to other tidbits.

Finally. We heard from Jessica on Monday. She says that despite delays in the courts right now, they will continue to gather everything needed for our file and submit for our court date. That's what we need to get this ball rolling, a court date. She is great! She says - keep moving forward! Onward! So, please keep praying that delays can be resolved swiftly, for patience for us and all the waiting families, and that we may find peace in the waiting.

There's much to do!

smj out

UPDATE ON KOKO!

2008-05-29T18:15:00.002-06:00

This just in from Joanna in country:

“She is a charmer! She is very responsive and her expressions are easy to read! She uses her entire body to express her emotions, her face not excluded! She is observant, happy and over all healthy! She has a perfectly ‘rub-able’ head and prefers not to be tickled! She is also trying to roll over, all the time!”

Weight- 10.36 pounds

Thank you Joanna! We got another pic of her today, too! Sweet, sweet, sweet baby!

Now on to our educational moment...there seems to be some confusion over how court works. (adoption blog community excluded) WE WILL NOT BE IN ETHIOPIA FOR THE COURT DATE. We wait until AFTER the court date is completed and successful, AND THEN make arrangements to travel to get our bundle of beautifulness. So often, the court date is unsuccessful the first time around and it becomes delayed, rescheduled, etc. for miscellaneous reasons.

But...first things first. We need a court date to look forward to. Word is that they are working on preparing our file for submission for a court date. It's a process, folks. Hang with us.

We are so desperately anxious to GET THERE! But it is sooooo out of our control, so we will keep working, praying, and looking at those beautiful pictures we get and, of course, pray for patience...

May there be peace in the waiting, for everyone.

smj out

ONE WAY TO PASS THE TIME

2008-05-27T21:00:00.011-06:00

Helpful waiting tip: One way to pass the time is to remodel your basement.

What started a couple months ago as a nasty, stinky, disgusting, nasty, ugly, smelly, (did I mention nasty?) unfinished basement is seriously close to completion. Thank goodness!

This will be our movie watching spot, and Koko's most excellent play room. So, we're painting. This is what the basement looks like at this point - carpet will be installed Friday. Still need to finish the bathroom, too.

We were marveling at our paint job last night when I noticed a drop of water out of the corner of my eye....hmmmmm!?!??!!?!? Bad. This can light was dripping water from the ceiling. Bad.

Chad crawled into this scary hole in the closet wall that IS the crawl space to do some detective work. I'm not sure why it seems so scary, maybe I think something creepy will crawl out, not sure.

Any way, there was water coming from upstairs somewhere near our dishwasher. Bad. Our dishwasher was backed up, and after some detective work we decided that we caught the problem soon enough not to have to worry about it (hopefully). We're letting it dry out, it wasn't too soaked, thank goodness!

Still more painting to do - still waiting on that beautiful phone call from Jessica to tell us when our court date will be - No one knows for sure what will happen in the wild and crazy world of international adoption - stay tuned!

smj out

BLESSINGS

2008-05-18T20:31:00.002-06:00

We have received a few new pics of our little peanut, and what a blessing it is! The travelling families have been so gracious to offer to take photos of us waiting families' kiddos. We've gotten some new photos of Koko as a result. Since our referral call, we can't get enough of her sweet face! Such a blessing!

Thank you, thank you, thank you travelling families!!! AND CONGRATULATIONS!!!

So, we're still waiting for our next beautiful phone call to hear when our court date will be...."JESSICA, CALL US!"

We're still making preparations. Need to get stocked up on the baby essentials yet, and still need to make that pediatrician phone call. Our basement is getting closer to being finished - need some carpet and to put finishing touches on the bathroom. It will be fabulous when it is finally done, and the contractors are gone! (dirty house. dirty, dirty house.)

Koko is on our hearts, in our thoughts every day. We still pray for patience. Patience to wait for a court date to come, patience to wait to hold our little Koko.

Onward with the wait,
smj

NAMED AND GIFTED

2008-05-11T14:41:00.004-06:00

What a great Mother's Day! Although she is thousands of miles away from us, we know she is our daughter. This is real! We also couldn't go another day without sharing with everyone the name we have chosen for her -- Koko.

As soon as it came from our mouths (honestly don't know who thought of it first), we both knew - Koko would be her name, and so we have been calling her by name for months, waiting, hoping, praying. We will use the name her birth mother gave her and her mother's name as middle names, but of course we can't share that on the blog until our successful court date. From a fave song, "Name above all names, how great is our God!"

The awesome 4th graders in my Sunday School class threw a surprise shower for us today in class. They are so sweet, wonderful kids, and it was so much fun! Special thanks to Louisa who organized the whole thing - she is a blessing to teach with.

We think of Koko, look at Koko every day, every hour - she is a part of our lives forever. It often seems so hard to comprehend this process we are in, all I can say, and keep saying, is what a blessing it is to even be on this journey, what an amazing life experience, what a gift we are being given.

Here's to another round of waiting. Waiting for that beautiful court date, waiting to hold her in our arms, waiting to bring her home.

Onward - smj

THE DETAILS...

2008-05-07T20:31:00.006-06:00

So, Chad called me twice on my cell phone this morning after I got in to work. He was excitedly telling me about other people who have gotten their referrals and we said to each other, maybe it will happen for us soon. I went about my work and then my phone rang, AGAIN, and I thought it was Chad again to tell me more. DJ, one of our facility nurse consultants was sitting with me in my office and when she heard my phone vibrate her eyes got HUGE, and I casually looked at it, and saw "UNKNOWN". Oh my goodness! I started shaking, serious shaking and calmly answered. When I heard Jessica say, "I have some good news for you," I couldn't even answer because I started blubbering and crying. Finally I choked out something dumb like "sorry, I'm just crying" - brilliant, nothing like stating the obvious. She told me to call Chad to let him know, and then call her back. I could hardly dial Chad's number I was shaking so badly! We all got on the phone together a couple minutes later and Jessica told us all about our baby girl.

She is two months old, (TWO MONTHS!) has big dark eyes, and chubby little cheeks. They say that she is very calm, hardly ever cries, and is very sweet. We got to hear about her birth parents, her birth mother wants to meet us, and Jessica told us all about her medical information, which there isn't much to say about since she is very healthy, hasn't yet had to see the doctor except for her physical. She was only in the orphanage for a few days, and then moved in April to the Gladney foster home where we are certain she is being well loved! Chad and I both had tears of joy and heard each other's sniffles over the phone while we listened to Jessica. We accepted the referral on the spot and now we wait for a court date as they prepare our files to submit to the judge. She says 4-6 weeks before we hear when the court date will be, and ideally the court date will happen a few short weeks after that, then we travel! We are still several weeks away from going to Ethiopia, but have plenty to do before then. (Like finish the basement remodel and other exciting projects.)

Chad and I went out to celebrate, of course we had Ethiopian food, and then stopped at Dairy Queen! Here are a couple celebration photos! Enjoy! We are so blessed. She is amazing, beautiful. We have her photos printed out and sitting on our fireplace mantle! We'll keep ya'll posted!

YOU WANT TO READ THIS

2008-05-07T12:57:00.003-06:00

Ummmmm......so just a little update....

WE GOT OUR REFERRAL CALL THIS MORNING FROM JESSICA!!!!!!!!

Jessica called at 11:30 am mountain time this morning to tell us all about our beautiful 2 month old baby girl! She is absolutely precious.

I'll post more details later.

Amazing. Simply amazing.

smj

WE'RE THROUGH 14

2008-05-04T14:19:00.002-06:00

14 weeks down. We know that with each passing day, we get closer and closer to baby K. Every day is a blessing! Short and sweet post this time. We pray for patience routinely now!

Onward. smj

WINDOW.

2008-04-27T09:15:00.008-06:00

OK. Everyone stay calm. Calm. Peaceful. Calm.

OK. Whatever. WE'RE JUMPING THROUGH THE WINDOW!!! You know the window. The one that Gladney says is approximately 3 to 5 months long, where referrals are most likely to be handed out. You remember what a referral is, don't you? That ALL-IMPORTANT PHONE CALL we will get from Jessica telling us all about who our future daughter will be while we look at e-mailed photos of her. Wow.

3 MONTHS OFFICIALLY - DONE. DONE! We have completed 13 weeks and will now start week 14. Sweet!

Stay tuned!

Onward! smj

A Bright Sun-Shiney Day

2008-04-19T19:47:00.006-06:00

Perfectly beautiful. That was today. 75 degrees and perfect for some quick yard work and our first lawn mowing of the spring! Whoo Hoo! It took a few tries but I finally got the mower fired up! Got a little sun burned even. Good times.

In adoption news - we are feeling good about wrapping up with week 12. Hard to believe we are entering the 13th week of waiting, which, upon completion, will take us to 3 MONTHS OF WAITING! "THE WINDOW" Oooooh, Ahhhhh. That exciting "window" of time where we could reasonably expect a call anytime! Stay tuned, people!

Also, GREAT news - we heard back from our very patient caseworker, Jessica on our necessary homestudy updates. We don't have to worry about updating our homestudy. She says, and I quote, "Our in country rep has informed us that dossier documents are good for two years in Ethiopia." YAY!

This week I will work on submitting our letter to USCIS requesting a new fingerprint appointment to keep our Immigration Approval letter current. This is the ever important I171-H from the US government saying we are allowed to adopt internationally. Our fingerprints expire in a couple months, and we MUST make sure this is taken care of - pray that there are no glitches with this. We can't bring home baby K without it!

Until we blog again - ONWARD!

SMJ

Eleven

2008-04-13T20:52:00.002-06:00

We have waited 11 full weeks on the wait list now. And full they have been. On the "to do" list for this week will be doing some research on day care and pediatrician options. We will also get the taxes finalized and keep working on our basement. Chad has had his shots for travel, but I will need to get moving on mine this week as well. Some of the suggested vaccinations are yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, tetanus, and typhoid. I am also planning on reading "There's No Me Without You" - Chad's finished it, now it's my turn! There's so much more to do! Onward!

SMJ

Interesting Factoids

2008-04-06T15:22:00.006-06:00

The capital city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, is located at the foot of the Entoto Mountains, and surprising to most, sits at an altitude of about 8,000 feet above sea level. Addis Ababa is the 3rd highest capital in the world. Yes, it’s higher than the mile-high city of Denver!

This means the climate is quite mild. The average high temperatures Jan-Dec range from 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temps range from 51 to 58 degrees. The warmest months are March, April, and May, and the rainy season is July through September. We'll be taking our sweaters to Ethiopia!

The city rambles across wooded hillsides, gullies, and fast flowing streams, especially during the rainy season.

The population of Addis Ababa is 2.3 million. In comparison, the Denver metro area population is 2.4 million.

Regarding religion, 82% of the population is Orthodox Christian, 12.7% Muslim, 3.9% Protestant, 0.8% Catholic, and 0.6% followers of other religions.

So then...we are at 10 official weeks of waiting on the wait list. Whoo Hoo...time flies when you're busy with life! Had our State Health Department inspection at work last week (thus the lack of entries the last few days - I'm finally rested up and recovered!). Based on the average number of deficiencies cited in Colorado nursing homes, our results say we're better than average, with work to do still. It's been three months - I'm working on it and loving our residents!

NEW VOTING POLL QUESTION TO THE RIGHT! The answer to the average number of diapers a baby goes through in a year is allegedly 7,500 and, you guessed it, a baby is born in the world every 3 seconds.

Onward with the wait! -SMJ

The liquor store

2008-03-30T12:39:00.003-06:00

So, I was in a local mom n' pop liquor store yesterday. No, we don't frequent those routinely, but we were looking for a couple good bottles of wine to sip....Anyway, as I was leaving, I was interested to see if my suspicions would be confirmed, so I asked the store owners where they were from (a husband and wife). I, of course, wasn't surprised when they told me - Ethiopia! So I told them we were adopting from Ethiopia and they told me all about how wonderful Ethiopia is. They told me about how Ethiopia has always been independent, and that it's history goes all the way back to the days of Jesus. They said the country has never been colonized, no slavery, and that the people there are very shy, but respectful of foreigners. The people are gentle and kind and I parted with them saying to me, "bless you". I was instantly drawn to them, hard to explain. So...I am now committed to start sharing with you great information about the land where our future daughter will come from.

We'll start with the map of where exactly Ethiopia is.

Bring on week ten!

SMJ

More than education

2008-03-29T14:39:00.002-06:00

This morning we completed our final adoption education class with our educator, Laura. It's more than education, though. It's hearing first hand stories of real adopted kids and families helping to make our process more real than ever - Laura and her husband have five adopted kiddos. We appreciate her insight, compassion, and understanding of the entire adoption process. It was a wonderful two and a half hours well spent this morning, a true blessing. Thank you, Laura! She told us about this video that we thought we'd share with you all. ~Peace.

So much love...

2008-03-28T17:49:00.004-06:00

So much love from the residents at the nursing home where I work! Today, Mary, our activities director, helped the residents lovingly make the most adorable baby blanket for us. It is so soft, cuddly and was made with so much love! I love our residents!
Well, we have completed two full months on the wait list, finishing up week 9 in a couple days. My how time flies! Tomorrow we're off to our last adoption education class. We've been reading our books - tons of great information. We'll share some tidbits with you when we're finished.

Onward,
SMJ

Havin' Fun!

2008-03-26T22:18:00.005-06:00

Don't send a lame eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

We're working on week 9 so we thought we'd join in the fun and dance the weeks away!

As an added bonus we will finish our last adoption education class this weekend.

Onward.

Process update...

2008-03-19T21:42:00.004-06:00

We watched our Ethiopia specific training video, and passed the test - that part's done. One more class in a couple weeks and we'll be done with all of the training.

We made it to the police station today to get our fingerprints re-done for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation clearances that we need to renew.

I also got our new doctor's examination forms in their envelopes to send off to our docs tomorrow for homestudy updating. Since we just had our physicals re-done in January, we don't have to go in again, just need to have them complete the appropriate forms for homestudy updates.

I'll also be sending our Colorado Child Abuse registry clearance form off tomorrow to have that updated and current as well.

In reading all the blogs out there, LOT's of people got referrals this week, after a period of not hearing much of anything, with the time frames still falling within the 3-5 month wait list time. Very exciting for them all! I love to read (and join in the excitement) of how others' got "the call". When you have time, check out some of their blogs listed in the "other blogs we follow" section to the right. We're in for an exciting, life-changing phone call sometime in the next several weeks! Wow.

Wow.

Palm Sunday

2008-03-16T10:31:00.004-06:00

Well, today is the end of week 7 on the wait list to receive our referral, and so tomorrow begins week 8...

We are working on finishing our required adoption education. We are learning about everything from attachment and bonding issues, to Ethiopia specific information, to what to bring on the airplane for our new little one when we meet her for the first time! We will watch a DVD and take an on-line test this week to complete our Ethiopia specific training and will finish our last 'in-person' class on March 29 in Castle Rock. As part of our training there are some books we will be reading and doing book reports on (like the old days in school), listed below if you want to check them out. We're excited to expand our knowledge, another step in the journey to get ready for 'Baby K'.

"Kids Are Worth It! : Giving Your Child The Gift Of Inner Discipline" by Barbara Coloroso

"Raising Adopted Children, Revised Edition: Practical Reassuring Advice for Every Adoptive Parent" by Lois Ruskai Melina

"There Is No Me Without You: One Woman's Odyssey to Rescue Her Country's Children" by Melissa Fay Greene

In other news, the process in updating our home study requirements will continue as Chad and I meet up at the police station this Wednesday to do our fingerprints, yet again, for our Colo Bureau of Investigation search to be re-done/renewed.

We're busy-ing ourselves with small house projects and have our eyes toward Easter. The amazing Passion Celebration today has left us bittersweet, with the knowledge that even though the story today ended darkly with Jesus being laid in the sealed tomb, we know SUNDAY'S A COMIN' and we'll be reminded once more, as we always are in worship, that Jesus is our risen, life-giving, Lord and Savior!

Praise Him from whom ALL of our blessings come!

SMJ

The Polls Are Open!

2008-03-11T20:59:00.002-06:00

TWO new voting polls to the right! Test your baby trivia knowledge!

Baby Room Color

2008-03-09T15:32:00.003-06:00

Skybluepink with a Heavenly Border? Yes, this is the winner of the "pick the baby room color" voting poll! We'll need an explanation! HOWEVER, yellow did come in second, and I think we will work with that. Watch for the next voting poll question...coming soon.

More To Do...

2008-03-04T21:16:00.004-07:00

We received documents today to complete for updating our homestudy; new fingerprint cards, new doctor's forms, a new financial form to complete - this will keep things going for a few more days!

Had a rejuvenating weekend with Chad in San Diego this past weekend and heard a great speaker at the National Pastor's Convention - will share more with you all soon.

!

2008-02-28T06:28:00.005-07:00

One month down, people - ONE MONTH!!!

Journey With Us

KOKO IN THE SNOW

"TAKE ME TO THE CANDY"

HALLOWEEN '09 - OUR "SOCIAL BUTTERFLY"

SEASONS CHANGE

COLLEGE GAME DAY!

HOME

KOKO MIMI ON THE BRAIN

PREPARING

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

PEACEFULNESS PLEASE

NEXT MIRACLE PLEASE

YET ANOTHER CHANCE

HOLD FAST

KEEP ON LIVIN'

NOT 7-31-09

THE EYE OF THE TIGER

NOT ON 7-24-09

NOT MUCH...

OK THEN

WAITING STILL/AGAIN

FOR REAL!

SHHHHHHHH.....

BEAUTIFUL SMALL THINGS

THIS WEEK

STILL HOPEFUL

SWEET BABY

SOMETHING, NOTHING, AND JUST BECAUSE

"ANYTHING YET?"

FRUITFUL

DREAM ON

SOMETHING TO CONSIDER IN THE WORLD OF ADOPTION

WE VOTED

DOCUMENT # 1

SUNSET

NEWS AND HAPPY TRAILS...

SHINY NEW SPRING

SORTA?

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

***EDITED*** STILL HOLDING OUR BREATH...

HOLDING OUR BREATH

INDIA NITE

ONE

SO....NO TITLE TODAY.

WHEN YOU'RE DONE CHANGING, YOU'RE DONE.

GUIDO-NESS

MMMMMMMMMM.....

A LITTLE BROKEN

DECEMBER KOKO UPDATE.

BACK TO THE BEGINNING

AS ANTICIPATED...

GUIDO

UNTITLED

IMAGINE

TRIBUTE TO THE BIRTHDAY BOY

FLOWERS CHANGING INTO NOVEMBER...

CONNECTIVITY

ESCAPE

PLAN C

HERE I AM

COLORFUL AND FAITHFUL

WHICH DO YOU WANT FIRST?

ON THE MOVE

IT'S FOOTBALL SEASON!

SNAPPING... ***Edited***

PLAN B

BUMPY ROAD

SOMETHING NICE FOR AUG 1

TIME KEEPS ON TICKING, TICKING, TICKING

T MINUS 20 DAYS AND COUNTING...

A LITTLE LOVIN'

DREAMING ON

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES!

"BEAUTIFUL AND INTIMIDATING!"

WE ROCK

SOMETHING AND DREAMING

FAMILY

SUPER GOOD DEAL!!!

WHAT TO DO...

UPDATE ON KOKO!

EDITED STILL HOLDING OUR BREATH...

SNAPPING... Edited