We got our social report today. It had 10 new pictures of my little Peanut. She has changed so much but she is still my little girl. She weighs just under 10lbs at 4 months and is reportedly a very smiley baby. So she is still tiny but doing well.
I am so amazed by this report. It is a fabulous comfort to know that Peanut is being so well loved until we can get there. You can read it and see it in the pictures how much the nannies really do care for our children and more than that. They really love our kids. That is beyond comforting.
Apparently Peanut likes her sleep and is a peaceful baby. She cries when hungry and tired and when she has had enough of sunbathing. She still has a full head of curly hair and in one of the pictures she was wearing an outfit we sent her. She is too cute for words that's for sure.
I am trying to figure out how to extract the pictures from the social report and print them as actual pictures so I can update my frames around the house. Hopefully come Friday this blog will finally be graced with the beauty that is my Peanut.
This report and the pictures are a nice distraction to occupy me this week while we wait for Friday. Hopefully by about 10am on Friday we should know if we passed court or not. Please pray for us and for the other families with upcoming court dates. And hang on Peanut, we really are almost there. We can't wait to hold you in our arms and shower you with love.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
7 days
Yes that is right. We are 1 week away from our court date. I am totally freaking out. I am anxious beyond belief. I want so much to pass court on the first try. I am not sure what I will do if we don't. I know it is all out of my control so I have to sit back and let it be.
Easier said than done. I have been praying every day for Peanut, for her caregivers, for her little friends that she is hanging out with and for the Ethiopian judges. Oh I so hope they receive all the papers that they need and can sign off on our case.
I am trying not to think to far in advance. People ask about travel and how soon we can leave and right now I just need to get through next Friday. After that I will start to really plan and think about traveling to bring home my baby girl.
So I apologize if my head is some where else for the next 7 days. I can't stop thinking (read: obsessing) about our court date. I am also waiting for our social report so I keep hitting refresh on my email hoping/wishing/praying for that email from our specialist. The social report will hold all the little details about Peanut's daily routine and PICTURES!!! I can't wait. In the pictures we have she is 5 weeks old and on Sunday she will be 4 months old.
We have a busy weekend and a possible snow storm so that should provide some distractions for a few days. Is it April 3rd yet??? Can I sleep or fast forward until then, please???
Easier said than done. I have been praying every day for Peanut, for her caregivers, for her little friends that she is hanging out with and for the Ethiopian judges. Oh I so hope they receive all the papers that they need and can sign off on our case.
I am trying not to think to far in advance. People ask about travel and how soon we can leave and right now I just need to get through next Friday. After that I will start to really plan and think about traveling to bring home my baby girl.
So I apologize if my head is some where else for the next 7 days. I can't stop thinking (read: obsessing) about our court date. I am also waiting for our social report so I keep hitting refresh on my email hoping/wishing/praying for that email from our specialist. The social report will hold all the little details about Peanut's daily routine and PICTURES!!! I can't wait. In the pictures we have she is 5 weeks old and on Sunday she will be 4 months old.
We have a busy weekend and a possible snow storm so that should provide some distractions for a few days. Is it April 3rd yet??? Can I sleep or fast forward until then, please???
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
10 days and counting
10 days until court. 10. What am I going to do with myself for the next 10 days?
Well to pass the time today I went to Target. I have a list of things that we still need to get for Peanut and for travel. I would have enjoyed the trip more had it not been pouring down rain but oh well.
I got some inflatable travel pillows today which came highly recommended for the long flight. I got some gas drops and children's motrin for Peanut. I bought a box of gallon size ziploc bags and 3 packages of sensitive baby wipes. 120 wipes should be enough for our trip right?? We are kind of heavy wipe users and I definitely don't want to run out.
I also got Peanut two different types of pacifiers as I am not sure which ones she will like. Then of course there was this cute pink hat that found its way into my cart. Oops. Can't help it :)
Lastly, some friends have told us that our agency's care center desperately needs infant vitamin drops so I bought the last 4 boxes that were on the shelf and plan to pick up plenty more before we travel.
I can't do this everyday as my list of needs for Peanut and travel is getting a lot smaller so I will have to find other distractions. Right now I am doing the rest of Peanut's laundry so all those cute outfits I got last weekend will be clean. I also cleaned the exersaucer and am washing the seat and cover for the bouncy seat. Okay now what...anyone have any ideas on how I can fill up the next 10 days?
Oh I sure hope that a nice Ethiopian judge signs off on our case in 10 days. I may go crazier than I already am if they don't. Please pray for us and for good news for all the families with upcoming court dates.
Well to pass the time today I went to Target. I have a list of things that we still need to get for Peanut and for travel. I would have enjoyed the trip more had it not been pouring down rain but oh well.
I got some inflatable travel pillows today which came highly recommended for the long flight. I got some gas drops and children's motrin for Peanut. I bought a box of gallon size ziploc bags and 3 packages of sensitive baby wipes. 120 wipes should be enough for our trip right?? We are kind of heavy wipe users and I definitely don't want to run out.
I also got Peanut two different types of pacifiers as I am not sure which ones she will like. Then of course there was this cute pink hat that found its way into my cart. Oops. Can't help it :)
Lastly, some friends have told us that our agency's care center desperately needs infant vitamin drops so I bought the last 4 boxes that were on the shelf and plan to pick up plenty more before we travel.
I can't do this everyday as my list of needs for Peanut and travel is getting a lot smaller so I will have to find other distractions. Right now I am doing the rest of Peanut's laundry so all those cute outfits I got last weekend will be clean. I also cleaned the exersaucer and am washing the seat and cover for the bouncy seat. Okay now what...anyone have any ideas on how I can fill up the next 10 days?
Oh I sure hope that a nice Ethiopian judge signs off on our case in 10 days. I may go crazier than I already am if they don't. Please pray for us and for good news for all the families with upcoming court dates.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Fabulous time, fabulous friends, fabulous finds
We had a great time this weekend with our friends Matt and Kerry and their beautiful daughters. Lots of laughs, beer and good times were had by all. Okay beer was just consumed by the adults. They generously let us borrow some things for Peanut too which was well fabulous. We now have a bouncy seat and an exersaucer for her. We don't know if she will like either of these things so it was nice to not have to buy them since she may only use them for a few short months if at all. They also lent us some great toys and a floor gym. They are great friends for sure and we can't wait to hang out with them again.
We went to a baby resale while we were there too. Okay, us girls went to a baby resale. I found some great clothes for Peanut. Some she will have to grow into but others should fit this summer. Most of the clothes that I got were brand new or like new. Some still had the original store tags on them and they were all from higher end baby clothes stores like Baby Gap, Gymboree, Hanna Anderson, etc. 
Peanut will have to grow into these overalls but they were super cute so maybe this fall and who can resist a pink plaid dress.
Peanut will have to grow into the pink dress on the right but it was like new and $7. And the other outfit has these cute little dogs on it and she should be able to wear it soon. It is Gymboree and was brand new with store tags. I couldn't believe it. New it was like $32 and I got it for $12.
Again two adorable like new dresses that I just couldn't resist.
This was a brand new Gymboree dress that may fit Peanut now and may be her Embassy appointment dress or her homecoming dress, I can't decide. It was brand new with store tags and only $15.
This Hanna Anderson dress should also fit Peanut relatively soon so it may be be making the trip with us as well.
I had no idea that I could find such great stuff for Peanut. She had a ton of clothes before this weekend but it was lots of shorts, pants and onesies and just a few dresses or actual outfits so it was nice to find some things to spice up her wardrobe a little.
We went to a baby resale while we were there too. Okay, us girls went to a baby resale. I found some great clothes for Peanut. Some she will have to grow into but others should fit this summer. Most of the clothes that I got were brand new or like new. Some still had the original store tags on them and they were all from higher end baby clothes stores like Baby Gap, Gymboree, Hanna Anderson, etc.
This first picture is hands down the cutest baby jeans I have ever seen. They have seahorses on them and a matching hat and it was brand new with store tags for $10 for all 3 pieces.
Peanut will have to grow into these overalls but they were super cute so maybe this fall and who can resist a pink plaid dress.
Peanut will have to grow into the pink dress on the right but it was like new and $7. And the other outfit has these cute little dogs on it and she should be able to wear it soon. It is Gymboree and was brand new with store tags. I couldn't believe it. New it was like $32 and I got it for $12.
Again two adorable like new dresses that I just couldn't resist.
This was a brand new Gymboree dress that may fit Peanut now and may be her Embassy appointment dress or her homecoming dress, I can't decide. It was brand new with store tags and only $15.
This Hanna Anderson dress should also fit Peanut relatively soon so it may be be making the trip with us as well.
I had no idea that I could find such great stuff for Peanut. She had a ton of clothes before this weekend but it was lots of shorts, pants and onesies and just a few dresses or actual outfits so it was nice to find some things to spice up her wardrobe a little. All in all we had a fabulous weekend and came home with lots of great stuff for Peanut. Only 11 more days (hopefully) until Peanut can make her debut in public. Warning you all in advance, she is extremely adorable!
Friday, March 20, 2009
TGIF
I am for once in a long while so glad that it is Friday and what a great Friday it has been.
1) First off a HUGE congratulations to my former Secret Pal, Sara. She and her lovely family just accepted a referral for a beautiful little girl that is probably hanging out with Peanut right now. I am over the moon happy for them.
2) A former co-worker, who I haven't seen in a long time, stopped by today and brought me 12 boxes of gloves. I was shocked and elated. In the last 2 days I have received over 16 boxes of gloves. I am on my way to filling a suitcase.
3) One of my adoption buddies is in Ethiopia right now and she had the opportunity to see Peanut. She said Peanut seems to be doing well. She was laying on the floor and babbling away :) This email made my day. She also said she made sure to tell Peanut that we will be there soon.
4) I don't have to work this weekend!!! It has been a long time since I haven't had to work on Saturday.
5) We are going to visit our dear friends Kerry and Matt and their gorgeous children. We went to college with them and truly enjoy spending time with them. I can't wait to hop in the car.
6) I opened my mailbox today and inside were these beautiful bracelets that I ordered from the Habesha house boutique. LOVE THEM!
After the way this week started, I thought for sure it was going to be a rough one but once I gained a little perspective things seemed to flow a little better. I am so very blessed.
Oh yeah 14 days and counting!!! Peanut we are hoping and praying we pass court. Hang in there baby girl, your Mom and Dad will get there as soon as we can. We love you little one.
1) First off a HUGE congratulations to my former Secret Pal, Sara. She and her lovely family just accepted a referral for a beautiful little girl that is probably hanging out with Peanut right now. I am over the moon happy for them.
2) A former co-worker, who I haven't seen in a long time, stopped by today and brought me 12 boxes of gloves. I was shocked and elated. In the last 2 days I have received over 16 boxes of gloves. I am on my way to filling a suitcase.
3) One of my adoption buddies is in Ethiopia right now and she had the opportunity to see Peanut. She said Peanut seems to be doing well. She was laying on the floor and babbling away :) This email made my day. She also said she made sure to tell Peanut that we will be there soon.
4) I don't have to work this weekend!!! It has been a long time since I haven't had to work on Saturday.
5) We are going to visit our dear friends Kerry and Matt and their gorgeous children. We went to college with them and truly enjoy spending time with them. I can't wait to hop in the car.
6) I opened my mailbox today and inside were these beautiful bracelets that I ordered from the Habesha house boutique. LOVE THEM!
After the way this week started, I thought for sure it was going to be a rough one but once I gained a little perspective things seemed to flow a little better. I am so very blessed.
Oh yeah 14 days and counting!!! Peanut we are hoping and praying we pass court. Hang in there baby girl, your Mom and Dad will get there as soon as we can. We love you little one.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Please help
I know that I mentioned this the other day on my blog but Haregewoin Teferra has passed away and left some children in need of help.This next letter is taken directly from Melissa Faye Greene's website (the author of "There Is No Me Without You," also a friend to Haregewoin and to the children at the orphanage that now need our help).....
"Dear Friends,
By now you may have learned the shocking news that Mrs. Haregewoin Teferra has died suddenly after a short illness. We don't know what caused her death; she felt sick for a couple of days, went to the doctor, came home without a diagnosis, felt sick again, and that was the end.
We are grieving, yet we have no time to spare: 59 children survive her, many of them toddlers and babies, the majority HIV-positive.
Worldwide Orphans--the New York-based organization that has overseen the medical care for Haregewoin's children for many years--has stepped into the breach. They have assumed full custody of the 42 HIV-positive kids and are prepared to take responsibility for the 17 HIV-negative children, as needed. Most of the latter are babies and toddlers; they're still at the foster home; their caregivers have stayed on; and the Atetegeb board is attentive to their health and safety at present.
These heroic measures come at high cost: we estimate $300,000 will be required in the coming year (about $4,600 per child) to cover food, healthcare and medicine, education, clothing, and caregivers. Once their basic needs are met, the children’s paperwork will be sorted out; some may be eligible for adoption, others may have extended families in a position to allow the children to return. But that is for the future.
The crisis is now: keeping these children fed and clothed, paying the salaries of loving caregivers to act as stand-ins for their late parents, making sure there is no break in the life-saving healthcare provided by WWO.
Haregewoin lived with these children seven days a week, 24 hours a day, for ten years. She is irreplaceable. The smallest ones, of course, have no idea what has just happened.
Please let us work together to act as foster parents in absentia for these little ones and to provide financial sustenance to the adults on the ground in Addis with them.
Thank you in advance for any amount you can give.
Online contributions can be made at http://www.wwo.org/.
Specify Campaign for Haregewoin's Children.
Or checks may be sent to: WWO511 Valley Street Maplewood, New Jersey 07040
Sincerely, Melissa"
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Much better
We got some reassuring news today about the new requirements for TB testing.
http://ethiopia.usembassy.gov/tb_testing.html
I cried. My despair and angst are gone. I am again filled with hope that we will not be delayed for this reason anyway in getting to our daughter. I looked right at my daughter's face today and cried. I can't wait to hold her in my arms and knowing this info brought my fears to rest.
There is still the issue of Embassy appointments being assigned to agencies every other week. I have been assured that if an agency needs more than 20 appointments per month they can request additional dates as needed in advance.
So now I just need to get on a plane and get back to the US before May 20th. That is the date our CIS fingerprints expire. I am sending in the request to ask for our one time refingerprinting on Monday. Our CIS office won't let you request to be refingerprinted until 60 days prior to the expiration date so hence I have had to wait. I sincerely hope we won't need to use these new prints. That is were a delay could occur. Getting our fingerprints from Milwaukee to the National Visa Center and then to the Embassy in Addis Ababa could be a timely process. We have hope as the Milwaukee office was quick the first time so we are hopeful we won't run into any issues.
On a side note there are some families in the adoption world that are having a tough time right now. I don't know the specifics of all of the issues but just that there are issues and it is causing a lot of heartache and delay. Please keep these families in your prayers. Hearing bits and pieces of stories makes me VERY grateful we chose and stuck with the agency we did.
http://ethiopia.usembassy.gov/tb_testing.html
I cried. My despair and angst are gone. I am again filled with hope that we will not be delayed for this reason anyway in getting to our daughter. I looked right at my daughter's face today and cried. I can't wait to hold her in my arms and knowing this info brought my fears to rest.
There is still the issue of Embassy appointments being assigned to agencies every other week. I have been assured that if an agency needs more than 20 appointments per month they can request additional dates as needed in advance.
So now I just need to get on a plane and get back to the US before May 20th. That is the date our CIS fingerprints expire. I am sending in the request to ask for our one time refingerprinting on Monday. Our CIS office won't let you request to be refingerprinted until 60 days prior to the expiration date so hence I have had to wait. I sincerely hope we won't need to use these new prints. That is were a delay could occur. Getting our fingerprints from Milwaukee to the National Visa Center and then to the Embassy in Addis Ababa could be a timely process. We have hope as the Milwaukee office was quick the first time so we are hopeful we won't run into any issues.
On a side note there are some families in the adoption world that are having a tough time right now. I don't know the specifics of all of the issues but just that there are issues and it is causing a lot of heartache and delay. Please keep these families in your prayers. Hearing bits and pieces of stories makes me VERY grateful we chose and stuck with the agency we did.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Retail Therapy
Today marks the second day in a row I could go outside without a jacket. If you don't live in the Midwest, this is a big deal. I believe it is only the 3rd time so far this year I have been out without a jacket. Finally. It amazes me how much sunshine can affect ones mood. So that said I decided to get out of the house today and enjoy. I stopped at my favorite local coffee shop for my favorite Large Iced Americano. YUMMY! From there I decided I was going to go grab a few things to bring with us to Illinois this weekend. We are going to visit some very dear friends and their adorable children so I wanted to get some fun stuff to bring the kids. No worries some good Wisconsin beer will be purchased so the adults can have a little fun too. :) While I was wandering around the store I felt pulled in a few directions and not really sure why.
So on top of what I purchased for the kids and the house, I bought this hinged picture frame. When we travel to bring home Peanut, we may be blessed enough to meet members of her first family and we are allowed to give them a hinged picture frame with pictures of us and of Peanut.
On my way to the back of the store, I turned down an aisle and saw this clock. I just mentioned that we should get a travel alarm clock and bam here it is.
Lastly on the way to the checkout I went down the aisle that sold hair dryers. I didn't really need to go down that aisle but happened to find this on sale and figured it would be perfect for travel. It has dual voltage too.
Retail therapy does wonders sometimes. I avoided the baby section since I am going to an AWESOME baby resale with my friend on Saturday. Cute baby clothes and no husbands to stop us from all that adorableness.
So on top of what I purchased for the kids and the house, I bought this hinged picture frame. When we travel to bring home Peanut, we may be blessed enough to meet members of her first family and we are allowed to give them a hinged picture frame with pictures of us and of Peanut.
On my way to the back of the store, I turned down an aisle and saw this clock. I just mentioned that we should get a travel alarm clock and bam here it is.
Lastly on the way to the checkout I went down the aisle that sold hair dryers. I didn't really need to go down that aisle but happened to find this on sale and figured it would be perfect for travel. It has dual voltage too.
Retail therapy does wonders sometimes. I avoided the baby section since I am going to an AWESOME baby resale with my friend on Saturday. Cute baby clothes and no husbands to stop us from all that adorableness. Don't get me wrong, my heart is still heavy with everything that is going on and to top it off the sad news found here http://www.thereisnomewithoutyou.com/blog?op=view&id=64 but I can't drown myself in Hazelnut Apricot cake forever. Okay I could but that would be a bad idea. So please keep all the little kiddos in Ethiopia in your prayers as well as the care givers and the people making all these decisions. I pray for the best interests of the children. And if you haven't read "There is no me without you", you should. It is a sad day in Ethiopia. She was truly an angel on Earth and her presence will be greatly missed.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Serious Attitude Adjustment
Okay--I have had some time to breath. Did a little yoga and ate a fabulous piece of cake. I apologize for how ridiculously selfish my last post was. I needed to vent and vent I did.
I need to spend some more time reflecting on and being grateful for the blessings in my life. I am very blessed with a wonderful husband, amazing family, 2 really cute pugs and an beautiful little girl who just happens to be in Ethiopia. I have my health, a home, a job, a car and can type this on my laptop. My life ain't that bad and I need to appreciate that and stop complaining.
Things are what they are. I can't control everything as much as I would want to anyway and I just need to deal with it. If I do get delayed there is a reason and I will be with my baby girl when I am supposed to. I have been ye of little faith which is unlike me.
Faith has gotten me this far and now more than ever I shouldn't turn my back on that.
I need to spend some more time reflecting on and being grateful for the blessings in my life. I am very blessed with a wonderful husband, amazing family, 2 really cute pugs and an beautiful little girl who just happens to be in Ethiopia. I have my health, a home, a job, a car and can type this on my laptop. My life ain't that bad and I need to appreciate that and stop complaining.
Things are what they are. I can't control everything as much as I would want to anyway and I just need to deal with it. If I do get delayed there is a reason and I will be with my baby girl when I am supposed to. I have been ye of little faith which is unlike me.
Faith has gotten me this far and now more than ever I shouldn't turn my back on that.
Trying to find my happy place....
A few months ago before we had our referral, I wrote about the things I have learned while adopting internationally and one of the things I mentioned was having questions and there not always being answers and to be prepared for delays.
Unfortunately I have had to encounter lots of questions with no answers and these lack of answers may translate into delays.
So we have learned that the US Embassy is requiring that all children be tested for TB prior to being issued a US Visa. I get that. The part that gets challenging is when are these tests done? For children under 2, a panel will review the child's history and determine if there are any physical signs and determine if they need a gastric aspiration (whatever that is) and then if that is positive they will need to stay in Ethiopia for an undetermined amount of time to be treated. So I see this going a couple of ways. 1) The panel could decide that Peanut's history looks good and there are no physical signs and all is fine or 2) The panel will decide that she needs to have this culture test done which could take up to 8 weeks to confirm a negative (but we aren't sure about that) and lastly if she is positive she would have to stay for a few months to be treated.
I have asked a lot of questions and there are no answers of yet. I apologize in advance for this next part may be quite whiny but I am grumpy! Since no one knows how this will play out it could mean that we will be delayed in being able to go get Peanut. Yes I said delayed. THAT STINKS! I am trying to stay positive and hope and pray that we aren't delayed but that is a lot easier said than done. I mean I really do understand the need for the testing but the urgency of implementing it immediately and the effects that will have on me being united with my daughter are why I am frustrated. The fact that they are implementing these new practices without being able to answer questions is infuriating. Why now? Why not in 6 months? Why not say starting May 1st at time of referral all children will be given a TB test and then go through the necessary steps. That way if the doctors need to wait for cultures, the family isn't waiting to travel but maybe still waiting for their court date and if a child needs treatment then that can be started before a family passes court so they aren't that much more delayed.
I fully realize that I am being selfish. I am trying to find my happy place. I mean I really am trying. I realize that this may all turn out fine and we won't get delayed or we will be delayed. The fact that no one has the answer to that question is frustrating.
When they tell you that International Adoption is not for the faint of heart, they mean it. This is tough. The toughest thing I have ever done and I am not sure it is any easier now that I can stare at my daughter's face on the mantel. Seeing that tiny little face makes my heart melt and being unsure of when we might be able to united with her makes my heart break.
On the plus side, 18 days until our court date.
Unfortunately I have had to encounter lots of questions with no answers and these lack of answers may translate into delays.
So we have learned that the US Embassy is requiring that all children be tested for TB prior to being issued a US Visa. I get that. The part that gets challenging is when are these tests done? For children under 2, a panel will review the child's history and determine if there are any physical signs and determine if they need a gastric aspiration (whatever that is) and then if that is positive they will need to stay in Ethiopia for an undetermined amount of time to be treated. So I see this going a couple of ways. 1) The panel could decide that Peanut's history looks good and there are no physical signs and all is fine or 2) The panel will decide that she needs to have this culture test done which could take up to 8 weeks to confirm a negative (but we aren't sure about that) and lastly if she is positive she would have to stay for a few months to be treated.
I have asked a lot of questions and there are no answers of yet. I apologize in advance for this next part may be quite whiny but I am grumpy! Since no one knows how this will play out it could mean that we will be delayed in being able to go get Peanut. Yes I said delayed. THAT STINKS! I am trying to stay positive and hope and pray that we aren't delayed but that is a lot easier said than done. I mean I really do understand the need for the testing but the urgency of implementing it immediately and the effects that will have on me being united with my daughter are why I am frustrated. The fact that they are implementing these new practices without being able to answer questions is infuriating. Why now? Why not in 6 months? Why not say starting May 1st at time of referral all children will be given a TB test and then go through the necessary steps. That way if the doctors need to wait for cultures, the family isn't waiting to travel but maybe still waiting for their court date and if a child needs treatment then that can be started before a family passes court so they aren't that much more delayed.
I fully realize that I am being selfish. I am trying to find my happy place. I mean I really am trying. I realize that this may all turn out fine and we won't get delayed or we will be delayed. The fact that no one has the answer to that question is frustrating.
When they tell you that International Adoption is not for the faint of heart, they mean it. This is tough. The toughest thing I have ever done and I am not sure it is any easier now that I can stare at my daughter's face on the mantel. Seeing that tiny little face makes my heart melt and being unsure of when we might be able to united with her makes my heart break.
On the plus side, 18 days until our court date.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Blog Union and T-3 weeks
I was asked to post about Blog Union 2009 today so here it goes. If you have a blog, are adopting/have adopted from Ethiopia and want to hang out with other cool bloggers who are doing the same thing then click here: http://www.meetup.com...
Blog Union '09 will be in the Windy City. You have to be approved to see the info and there are a few stipulations that must be met before getting approved. They are:
1. The family must have a blog
2. The family must be officially waiting (aka – had background checks, fingerprints etc.)
3. The family applying must be adopting from ET and/or have adopted from ET – this is an Ethiopian adoption specific group.
4. Once signed up we ask that you all have pictures on your meet-up profiles so I can keep track of who is who.
So if you haven't already sign up and join us. It is sure to be a good time. I can't wait!
As for the other part of my post--we are T minus 3 weeks until our court date. To say I am rich with anticipation is an understatement. I just pray we hear on that day. It is a Friday and I am dreading the thought of going through the weekend not knowing if a nice judge in Ethiopia signed off and made us officially Peanut's parents.
Not much we can do until then. We, as of today, will have all of Peanut's clothes washed and ready to be packed. We are starting to think about what we will pack ourselves and just how many suitcases are we going to bring. We are at 1 for each of us, 1 for the gloves I am donating to AHOPE and maybe another small one. Then for carry on's, I have my big diaper bag and this really cool bag I just got in the mail made by another Mom adopting from Ethiopia and Dave will have a backpack for the laptop and then another small bag as well. Wow that is a lot of luggage but with weight limits being what they are (50lbs for checked bags and 15lbs for carry ons), we don't really have a choice.
21 days...and counting. If you are the praying type please pray that the nice judges in Ethiopia sign off on our case and all the rest of the families with court dates coming up. If you aren't the praying type could you keep your fingers crossed or think happy thoughts for all of us waiting to get one step closer to our children?
Blog Union '09 will be in the Windy City. You have to be approved to see the info and there are a few stipulations that must be met before getting approved. They are:
1. The family must have a blog
2. The family must be officially waiting (aka – had background checks, fingerprints etc.)
3. The family applying must be adopting from ET and/or have adopted from ET – this is an Ethiopian adoption specific group.
4. Once signed up we ask that you all have pictures on your meet-up profiles so I can keep track of who is who.
So if you haven't already sign up and join us. It is sure to be a good time. I can't wait!
As for the other part of my post--we are T minus 3 weeks until our court date. To say I am rich with anticipation is an understatement. I just pray we hear on that day. It is a Friday and I am dreading the thought of going through the weekend not knowing if a nice judge in Ethiopia signed off and made us officially Peanut's parents.
Not much we can do until then. We, as of today, will have all of Peanut's clothes washed and ready to be packed. We are starting to think about what we will pack ourselves and just how many suitcases are we going to bring. We are at 1 for each of us, 1 for the gloves I am donating to AHOPE and maybe another small one. Then for carry on's, I have my big diaper bag and this really cool bag I just got in the mail made by another Mom adopting from Ethiopia and Dave will have a backpack for the laptop and then another small bag as well. Wow that is a lot of luggage but with weight limits being what they are (50lbs for checked bags and 15lbs for carry ons), we don't really have a choice.
21 days...and counting. If you are the praying type please pray that the nice judges in Ethiopia sign off on our case and all the rest of the families with court dates coming up. If you aren't the praying type could you keep your fingers crossed or think happy thoughts for all of us waiting to get one step closer to our children?
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Fill me up
I have under taken a project. I am calling it Project Fill Me Up. I sent out an email to some family and friends so they could help me.
Here is the email that I sent out:
We are hoping to travel to pick up our daughter in May. While we are in Ethiopia for a week we would like to drop donations off at AHOPE when we go to visit.
AHOPE for Children is a non-profit organization whose mission is to serve the children of Ethiopia, with a primary emphasis on caring for orphans infected with HIV. In Addis Ababa, AHOPE's two pleasant, well-staffed Children's Homes care exclusively for orphans who are HIV+ and have no extended family to care for them. Many of these children are now finding their forever families through adoption. AHOPE's Community Outreach Program enables orphaned children to remain within their extended families and culture, while receiving medical care, education, food, and other services.
We have received word from a dear friend that this organization is in desperate need of medical gloves. I am making it my mission to bring over a suitcase full of medical quality gloves. I purchased a box yesterday at Walgreens ( I found them near the diabetic supplies). I know the economy is tough right now but if you find you have a few extra dollars and would like to help me fill my suitcase I would greatly appreciate it.
So I have gotten a great response so far. I have friends that are going to send me money so I can buy more boxes, some are going to buy boxes of gloves and get them to me and a very kind offer from someone I don't know personally offered to give me some boxes of gloves. She and her family are involved in medical missions in Guatemala and she thinks she can send some boxes of gloves with me to Ethiopia. How awesome. So if anyone is reading this and wants to help, leave me a comment with your email or if you are on Facebook I am on there as well or if you have my email you can email me directly or if you use the CHSFS forum you can send my a private message.
A special thanks to www.forever2young.blogspot.com for letting me know what is needed and giving me the inspiration for this project. You are amazing girlfriend!
Here is the email that I sent out:
We are hoping to travel to pick up our daughter in May. While we are in Ethiopia for a week we would like to drop donations off at AHOPE when we go to visit.
AHOPE for Children is a non-profit organization whose mission is to serve the children of Ethiopia, with a primary emphasis on caring for orphans infected with HIV. In Addis Ababa, AHOPE's two pleasant, well-staffed Children's Homes care exclusively for orphans who are HIV+ and have no extended family to care for them. Many of these children are now finding their forever families through adoption. AHOPE's Community Outreach Program enables orphaned children to remain within their extended families and culture, while receiving medical care, education, food, and other services.
We have received word from a dear friend that this organization is in desperate need of medical gloves. I am making it my mission to bring over a suitcase full of medical quality gloves. I purchased a box yesterday at Walgreens ( I found them near the diabetic supplies). I know the economy is tough right now but if you find you have a few extra dollars and would like to help me fill my suitcase I would greatly appreciate it.
So I have gotten a great response so far. I have friends that are going to send me money so I can buy more boxes, some are going to buy boxes of gloves and get them to me and a very kind offer from someone I don't know personally offered to give me some boxes of gloves. She and her family are involved in medical missions in Guatemala and she thinks she can send some boxes of gloves with me to Ethiopia. How awesome. So if anyone is reading this and wants to help, leave me a comment with your email or if you are on Facebook I am on there as well or if you have my email you can email me directly or if you use the CHSFS forum you can send my a private message.
A special thanks to www.forever2young.blogspot.com for letting me know what is needed and giving me the inspiration for this project. You are amazing girlfriend!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Preparations and random thoughts
We have started to prepare for our upcoming trip to bring home Peanut. We are gathering formula, diapers and some other much needed items for donations to CHSFS and AHOPE. On Sunday, I pulled out a bunch of Peanut's clothes in an attempt to figure out what we will bring with us. We have our water bottles, our paperwork, our suitcases and hopefully soon our new laptop.
Well all of this preparation stuff led me to stay up way too late last night thinking about some very random but relevant things.
1) What size clothes should we bring for Peanut?? She will most likely be between sizes so she might fit in 0-3 month or she might fit in to 3-6 month and even then that depends on which clothing company you are looking at. Why can't all clothing companies make clothes the same size??
2) Is 20 onesies too many to bring with us? Since I don't know what will fit and what won't what is a Mom supposed to do??? And I am notorious for overpacking....
3) I really need to get some more 1 gallon Ziploc bags. You see other families have suggested packing one baby outfit an a diaper in a Ziploc so when you need to change baby in a tight space you just have to grab the Ziploc and wipes and you are good to go. The bags will also double as a great way to contain the messiness of diaper blowouts that I have heard so much about.
4)We really need to order the new laptop. We have been saving for one and I want to make sure we get it in time to travel. Our current one is VERY old and VERY heavy.
5) At some point I need to figure out how we are going to board the dogs while we are gone. Vet for cheaper or Camp K-9 which will cost more but the dogs will get more attention and they have staff on the premises 24 hours a day. (Can you tell which way I am leaning...)
6) I need to make a list of things we still need to get for both us and for Peanut.
7) Do we have enough freezer containers for food? I am planning on making up a bunch of food before we go so we have home cooked meals and not take out when we come home.
It was a long night of laying awake in bed. I blame daylight savings and the dogs. My schedule is all off because of daylight savings and my dogs were consuming the entire lower half of the bed last night only on my side so I had ZERO leg room.
The preparations will continue and I am sure I will have more random thoughts to put in order and figure out. I am trying to stay ahead of the game since we will only get a few weeks notice for travel. Not sure if that is a good idea or if it will just lead to more random thoughts...
Well all of this preparation stuff led me to stay up way too late last night thinking about some very random but relevant things.
1) What size clothes should we bring for Peanut?? She will most likely be between sizes so she might fit in 0-3 month or she might fit in to 3-6 month and even then that depends on which clothing company you are looking at. Why can't all clothing companies make clothes the same size??
2) Is 20 onesies too many to bring with us? Since I don't know what will fit and what won't what is a Mom supposed to do??? And I am notorious for overpacking....
3) I really need to get some more 1 gallon Ziploc bags. You see other families have suggested packing one baby outfit an a diaper in a Ziploc so when you need to change baby in a tight space you just have to grab the Ziploc and wipes and you are good to go. The bags will also double as a great way to contain the messiness of diaper blowouts that I have heard so much about.
4)We really need to order the new laptop. We have been saving for one and I want to make sure we get it in time to travel. Our current one is VERY old and VERY heavy.
5) At some point I need to figure out how we are going to board the dogs while we are gone. Vet for cheaper or Camp K-9 which will cost more but the dogs will get more attention and they have staff on the premises 24 hours a day. (Can you tell which way I am leaning...)
6) I need to make a list of things we still need to get for both us and for Peanut.
7) Do we have enough freezer containers for food? I am planning on making up a bunch of food before we go so we have home cooked meals and not take out when we come home.
It was a long night of laying awake in bed. I blame daylight savings and the dogs. My schedule is all off because of daylight savings and my dogs were consuming the entire lower half of the bed last night only on my side so I had ZERO leg room.
The preparations will continue and I am sure I will have more random thoughts to put in order and figure out. I am trying to stay ahead of the game since we will only get a few weeks notice for travel. Not sure if that is a good idea or if it will just lead to more random thoughts...
Friday, March 6, 2009
Game plan for the next 2 months
I have made some decisions about how the next two months will have to be if I am to retain any grasp on my sanity. We figure all goes well we are about 8 weeks from traveling maybe 9 but hopefully less. We are getting so much closer to our little girl I almost can't stand it.
We got a good dose of reality this week and I very much appreciate that but for now I am taking one day at a time. I have to. I cannot let my mind take over. I have a choice. I can sit and fret and worry and drive myself crazy or trust my doctor and wait and see. I know what could be and I will face things as they come. I am getting nowhere by re-reading things or googling anything. In fact the Internet is a dangerous place for a worried Momma. I am done with all of that for now. I have learned and read as much as I can and can't do anymore until we have more info and I have Peanut in my arms.
I have prayed a lot in these last few days. Prayed for Peanut, the caregivers and my sanity. Part of me will always be a worried Momma as it comes with the job but I have found a little peace. I have to. I am no good to Peanut if I am a wreck. We will face whatever challenges may lie ahead when we need to but I am done worrying about things that may never be. Sure those 'could be's' are in the back of my head but I am very hopeful that Peanut will be just fine. She is just one tiny little girl right now. That said she is my little Peanut and I will be her biggest advocate and cheerleader.
We got a good dose of reality this week and I very much appreciate that but for now I am taking one day at a time. I have to. I cannot let my mind take over. I have a choice. I can sit and fret and worry and drive myself crazy or trust my doctor and wait and see. I know what could be and I will face things as they come. I am getting nowhere by re-reading things or googling anything. In fact the Internet is a dangerous place for a worried Momma. I am done with all of that for now. I have learned and read as much as I can and can't do anymore until we have more info and I have Peanut in my arms.
I have prayed a lot in these last few days. Prayed for Peanut, the caregivers and my sanity. Part of me will always be a worried Momma as it comes with the job but I have found a little peace. I have to. I am no good to Peanut if I am a wreck. We will face whatever challenges may lie ahead when we need to but I am done worrying about things that may never be. Sure those 'could be's' are in the back of my head but I am very hopeful that Peanut will be just fine. She is just one tiny little girl right now. That said she is my little Peanut and I will be her biggest advocate and cheerleader.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
The last 24 hours....
To say that the last 24 hours have been a little rough is an understatement. I have a battle going on between my head and my heart.
A little background...we sent Peanut's latest measurements off to the doctor. She came back with a "mildly concerning" response. She was hoping to see more weight gain and overall growth. She said that Peanut is falling behind a little and we want to see her stay even or gain. We should watch things over the next month and then if not improved ask for additional medical evaluations to make sure we aren't missing something and then listed the things at that time we would check for which were kidney issues, metabolic disorders and mild/moderate cerebral palsy.
I spent time yesterday charting her growth on the CDC growth charts and the WHO growth charts, crying, reading and seeking some reassurance. Hence the battle that ensued.
My head is telling me that I picked this doctor because she would give me the worst case scenarios. She wants me to be prepared and worried and not take anything for granted. This is what I wanted. I wanted a doctor to give it to me straight and not sugar coat anything. I am grateful to know all of the possibilities.
That said, my heart disagrees. I am a new mom whose little girl is half way across the world. I haven't gotten any new pictures and only get monthly numbers about her growth. My heart took over yesterday and I cried for my little Peanut. I want so badly to be with her and to hold her and I can't and that just plain stinks.
So after some reading and some VERY kind words of reassurance from others who have been in my shoes my heart and head have aligned sort of. I am still a worried Momma but I have a better grasp on the things that could be and the things that are more likely to be.
For instance, head circumference is very difficult to measure accurately. We have asked for a new measurement to see what that comes back as. The stress of the environment that Peanut is in could also be affecting her growth. I have learned that growth is good. I have also learned that proportionally she is small across the board and that is okay. I know that she will need to catch up but also realize how important it is that she doesn't catch up too quickly. And most importantly, other babies her age and older with similar measurements have been just fine.
Part of the issue is we don't know if she was premature or what she weighed at birth and sometimes those things factor in when plotting growth. She also had a little tummy trouble upon arrival at the care center and was on medication so that could have been a factor as well.
All in all, I could not have survived yesterday without my fellow adoptive Moms. I learned a TON from them and their reassurance helped tremendously. I do have tremendous faith in the staff that is watching over her. They are AMAZING and I have been told that they are quick to pick up on things if they think there is an issue. I know that there still could be issues and I am okay with that. Peanut is our baby girl and we will do anything we have to for her. Now if they just let me get on a plane so I can go get her, we would be off and rolling.
A little background...we sent Peanut's latest measurements off to the doctor. She came back with a "mildly concerning" response. She was hoping to see more weight gain and overall growth. She said that Peanut is falling behind a little and we want to see her stay even or gain. We should watch things over the next month and then if not improved ask for additional medical evaluations to make sure we aren't missing something and then listed the things at that time we would check for which were kidney issues, metabolic disorders and mild/moderate cerebral palsy.
I spent time yesterday charting her growth on the CDC growth charts and the WHO growth charts, crying, reading and seeking some reassurance. Hence the battle that ensued.
My head is telling me that I picked this doctor because she would give me the worst case scenarios. She wants me to be prepared and worried and not take anything for granted. This is what I wanted. I wanted a doctor to give it to me straight and not sugar coat anything. I am grateful to know all of the possibilities.
That said, my heart disagrees. I am a new mom whose little girl is half way across the world. I haven't gotten any new pictures and only get monthly numbers about her growth. My heart took over yesterday and I cried for my little Peanut. I want so badly to be with her and to hold her and I can't and that just plain stinks.
So after some reading and some VERY kind words of reassurance from others who have been in my shoes my heart and head have aligned sort of. I am still a worried Momma but I have a better grasp on the things that could be and the things that are more likely to be.
For instance, head circumference is very difficult to measure accurately. We have asked for a new measurement to see what that comes back as. The stress of the environment that Peanut is in could also be affecting her growth. I have learned that growth is good. I have also learned that proportionally she is small across the board and that is okay. I know that she will need to catch up but also realize how important it is that she doesn't catch up too quickly. And most importantly, other babies her age and older with similar measurements have been just fine.
Part of the issue is we don't know if she was premature or what she weighed at birth and sometimes those things factor in when plotting growth. She also had a little tummy trouble upon arrival at the care center and was on medication so that could have been a factor as well.
All in all, I could not have survived yesterday without my fellow adoptive Moms. I learned a TON from them and their reassurance helped tremendously. I do have tremendous faith in the staff that is watching over her. They are AMAZING and I have been told that they are quick to pick up on things if they think there is an issue. I know that there still could be issues and I am okay with that. Peanut is our baby girl and we will do anything we have to for her. Now if they just let me get on a plane so I can go get her, we would be off and rolling.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
30 days and 30 wonders
We are 30 days from our court date so in honor of Peanut here are 30 things that I wonder about her in no particular order.
1) I wonder what she smells like... may seem weird but I LOVE the smell of babies and miss the smell of formula in my house
2) if she will look like her birth mom
3) when she will call me Mama
4) if she will be sitting up when we meet her
5) if she will be scared when we first show up
6) if she will make that cute little grumpy face she is making in her referral photo (can't wait to post that)
7) if she will still be wearing 0-3 months clothes at 6 months
8) if she will still have a fully head of hair
9) if she like tummy time or if she will hate it
10) if she will like to be carried in the Ergo
11) if she will sleep through the night
12) if she will survive the plane ride home with at least one clean outfit left
13) if she will like bath time
14) if she will like my meager attempts to fix her hair
15) if she will laugh a lot
16) when she will first smile at us
17) will she be afraid of the pugs
18) will she be outgoing or shy
19) will she be ticklish
20) will she ever be on the growth charts
21) will she like sports, music or both
22) will she like to climb trees or play dolls or both
23) will she like injera
24) if she will want long hair or short
25) if she will like to give hugs
26) if she will ever know how much we love her
27) when she will crawl
28) what her first word will be
29) will she still suck her thumb
30) if she will understand her story when we tell her
Peanut, we love you and we miss you. We are getting that much closer to being with you as a family. Hang on baby girl, Mom and Dad will be there soon.
We did get our growth update on Peanut. She is 3 months old and weigh 8.7lbs and is 21.2 inches long. She gained over a pound and a half in the last month which is great. She also had a growth spurt which is great. Her head circumference is a little small and not on the charts which is a little concerning. We sent the info off to the doctor and are waiting to hear back from her.
1) I wonder what she smells like... may seem weird but I LOVE the smell of babies and miss the smell of formula in my house
2) if she will look like her birth mom
3) when she will call me Mama
4) if she will be sitting up when we meet her
5) if she will be scared when we first show up
6) if she will make that cute little grumpy face she is making in her referral photo (can't wait to post that)
7) if she will still be wearing 0-3 months clothes at 6 months
8) if she will still have a fully head of hair
9) if she like tummy time or if she will hate it
10) if she will like to be carried in the Ergo
11) if she will sleep through the night
12) if she will survive the plane ride home with at least one clean outfit left
13) if she will like bath time
14) if she will like my meager attempts to fix her hair
15) if she will laugh a lot
16) when she will first smile at us
17) will she be afraid of the pugs
18) will she be outgoing or shy
19) will she be ticklish
20) will she ever be on the growth charts
21) will she like sports, music or both
22) will she like to climb trees or play dolls or both
23) will she like injera
24) if she will want long hair or short
25) if she will like to give hugs
26) if she will ever know how much we love her
27) when she will crawl
28) what her first word will be
29) will she still suck her thumb
30) if she will understand her story when we tell her
Peanut, we love you and we miss you. We are getting that much closer to being with you as a family. Hang on baby girl, Mom and Dad will be there soon.
We did get our growth update on Peanut. She is 3 months old and weigh 8.7lbs and is 21.2 inches long. She gained over a pound and a half in the last month which is great. She also had a growth spurt which is great. Her head circumference is a little small and not on the charts which is a little concerning. We sent the info off to the doctor and are waiting to hear back from her.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Random pictures
I haven't posted pics in awhile so here are a few. We went to Target this weekend and I think if I could have a love affair with any store it would be Target. This first picture is of this adorable hat that I bought for Peanut :) Not sure why it is vertical so just turn your head and you will get the drift. :)
Here are a couple of pictures of the dogs. Sebastian is first and as you tell he is annoyed. Nothing like a annoying human to stick a camera in his face while he is trying to sleep oh and the flash was on. Oops. I see an extra treat for him later.
Here is Badger. I wouldn't normally take such an up close picture but he was just standing there being adorable and kind of in the way of my other pictures so I took it. And yes he always looks sad.
Since we were at Target, I decided it was time to start gathering things for our big trip. We need water bottles to bring with us so ta da here they are.
And on the donation front; soy formula was on sale so we picked up a couple of cans to add to our donation suitcases.
No other news to report....We are hoping to get a growth, weight and head circumference update on Peanut soon. Definitely this week I would think. Other than that just trying to plan the next 31 days (that's how long it is until our court date). I want to stay nice and busy so time flies by.
Here are a couple of pictures of the dogs. Sebastian is first and as you tell he is annoyed. Nothing like a annoying human to stick a camera in his face while he is trying to sleep oh and the flash was on. Oops. I see an extra treat for him later.
Here is Badger. I wouldn't normally take such an up close picture but he was just standing there being adorable and kind of in the way of my other pictures so I took it. And yes he always looks sad.
Since we were at Target, I decided it was time to start gathering things for our big trip. We need water bottles to bring with us so ta da here they are.
And on the donation front; soy formula was on sale so we picked up a couple of cans to add to our donation suitcases.
No other news to report....We are hoping to get a growth, weight and head circumference update on Peanut soon. Definitely this week I would think. Other than that just trying to plan the next 31 days (that's how long it is until our court date). I want to stay nice and busy so time flies by.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Good food, great people!
Last night Dave and I went out to dinner with 20 or so people we have never met. We went to the Ethiopian restaurant in town. The food was fabulous as always and the company was even better.
It was so great to put faces with names and to start to get know these people. They were couples, single moms, people home for years, people travelling in a few weeks, people with referrals, people close to referral and people just starting out. It was a very diverse group of people.
I would say last night was definitely a highlight in the almost 6 years that I have lived here. Don't get me wrong I love my neighbors and my friends, but these people last night just get it. They get the whole process. How hard the waiting is, the struggles with infertility, the awkward looks and questions people ask when you tell them you are adopting from Ethiopia or they see you with your Ethiopian child.
I met people who knew what it was like to hate everything pregnancy and baby related while you are struggling with infertility, people who understand how frustrating the process can be and the not knowing is, people who used to live on the West Coast and understand my love of the Nordstrom shoe department and how awful it is that we don't have one here. ( I know I could drive to Chicago but really 3 hours just for shoes...)
After dinner we went out for drinks with some of the others and had even more fun. It was nice to relax and unwind and for me to finally feel connected in this crazy place we call home. I never have really felt like I found my niche and I kind of think I found it last night. I made some strong connections with people and can't wait to hang out again.
It was so great to put faces with names and to start to get know these people. They were couples, single moms, people home for years, people travelling in a few weeks, people with referrals, people close to referral and people just starting out. It was a very diverse group of people.
I would say last night was definitely a highlight in the almost 6 years that I have lived here. Don't get me wrong I love my neighbors and my friends, but these people last night just get it. They get the whole process. How hard the waiting is, the struggles with infertility, the awkward looks and questions people ask when you tell them you are adopting from Ethiopia or they see you with your Ethiopian child.
I met people who knew what it was like to hate everything pregnancy and baby related while you are struggling with infertility, people who understand how frustrating the process can be and the not knowing is, people who used to live on the West Coast and understand my love of the Nordstrom shoe department and how awful it is that we don't have one here. ( I know I could drive to Chicago but really 3 hours just for shoes...)
After dinner we went out for drinks with some of the others and had even more fun. It was nice to relax and unwind and for me to finally feel connected in this crazy place we call home. I never have really felt like I found my niche and I kind of think I found it last night. I made some strong connections with people and can't wait to hang out again.
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