tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15407842811748809362024-03-13T07:37:25.388-07:00Baby Ethiopia{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-42405069979783620972010-01-03T06:34:00.000-08:002010-01-03T06:35:05.650-08:00One YearToday marks the one year anniversary when we were blessed with Brecken. This day, last year, we would have been getting off the plane in Ethiopia and going to the care center to meet our daughter. I can't believe that a year has gone by. Brecken has grown into a sweet, spunky toddler. I was looking at pictures of our time in Ethiopia the other day and I was blown away with how much she has changed and grown. At nineteen months old, Brecken is adventurous and independent. She wants to do everything on her own. She loves to read and laugh. She is also just discovering her new role as "big sister"...she is very generous with kisses when it comes to her baby brother. We have been so blessed with our sweet daughter...we could not imagine our life without her.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/S0CqfyvCtkI/AAAAAAAABLw/QTsBxH5OKJE/s1600-h/Brecken-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 341px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/S0CqfyvCtkI/AAAAAAAABLw/QTsBxH5OKJE/s400/Brecken-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422521414525826626" border="0" /></a>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com122tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-22998010820376818472009-02-16T08:52:00.001-08:002009-02-16T08:58:35.016-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SZmbGF3xSCI/AAAAAAAABD0/eADVpvA7Zp4/s1600-h/BWDSC02251.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SZmbGF3xSCI/AAAAAAAABD0/eADVpvA7Zp4/s320/BWDSC02251.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303440565163083810" border="0" /></a>Hello! We have been home now for a little over a month. Brecken is growing by leaps and bounds...she gained over two pounds this month and about 2-3 inches in height. Her little ears have healed nicely. We also found a tiny little pearly white tooth starting to poke its way through. She is such a happy girl! We are doing good and enjoying our two daughters.<br /><br />I also wanted to invite you over to our family blog <a href="http://www.brittleedunn.blogspot.com/">here</a>. This is where I will be posting most often now.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-80691928002588623752009-02-02T18:39:00.000-08:002009-02-02T18:46:59.833-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SYevzQdDyFI/AAAAAAAABBg/xa_hWPYEeGY/s1600-h/DSC02185.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SYevzQdDyFI/AAAAAAAABBg/xa_hWPYEeGY/s320/DSC02185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298396781749717074" border="0" /></a>We are still here and still trying to figure out that new normal. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Brecken</span> has suffered two ruptured ear drums since we have gotten home...she is still dealing with a little cough and a runny nose, but other than that she is just one happy camper. She has been doing really great adjusting to life here in Colorado. Everyday I am reminded of what an amazing blessing it is to have her home! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Brecken</span> loves to smile and is enjoying discovering some new baby foods...her favorite has been the yogurt the doctor said we should be giving her to help her tummy deal with the antibiotics. I can't believe that tomorrow will be one month since our gotcha day...we have so enjoyed getting to know this sweet little one.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-27282601333865524632009-01-22T20:38:00.000-08:002009-01-22T21:34:08.091-08:00Bringing Blake with us...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SXlTNv69-ZI/AAAAAAAABAY/wSNzjWWxNng/s1600-h/Ethiopia041.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SXlTNv69-ZI/AAAAAAAABAY/wSNzjWWxNng/s320/Ethiopia041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294354332617931154" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Blakeley and Brecken at Dreamland<br /></span></div><br />We decided early on that we wanted our three year old, Blake to come with us to pick up Brecken. There were a ton of people who were surprised that we would bring our three year old with us to Africa, but we wanted her to feel that she was a major part of this experience...after all, she has heard us talk about the adoption for almost two years. You should also know that Blake is a very active, independent little girl, she loves to see new things and she plays very, very hard. We knew that we would have to help her keep busy while we were traveling, we also knew that traveling would mean long lines, long plane trips, a completely different time zone, different food, different everything...we wanted to try to keep her as comfortable as possible with all these new things. Here are some things we did to help her travel better and to make sure she had everything that she needed:<br /><br /><ul><li>Personal Backpack - we bought a special backpack that we loaded with toys, games, crayons and coloring books. She was able to get into her things when she wanted. I also included some snacks.</li><li>Changes of clothes - we brought changes of clothes for Blake where ever we went...even in country. These were especially helpful on the flights. We also made sure to change her into her pjs for the really long flight.</li><li>Baby Wipes - I packed a small package of baby wipes in my bag just in case and we used them all on Blake before we even got to Addis.</li><li>DVD Player with extra headphones - We brought some of Blake's favorite DVDs with us and it was so, so wonderful when she was up at 5:00 in the morning and we still wanted a bit of sleep.</li><li>Snacks, Snacks, and more snacks - always good to have with kids</li><li>Children's Pepto - I was really surprised that we used this, but Blake needed it. I was so happy we had something for her...I know they also make Tums for kids too.</li><li>TicTacs and stickers - For some reason Blake loves TicTacs and she also loves stickers - these were her special treats when we really needed her to listen or to stay in the very long security line...um and we do not call it bribing...it's called positive reinforcement.</li><li>Little Surprises - I completely hit the Target dollar bins for a few months before we left to collect things that Blake would open as a special surprise in Ethiopia. I found these really cool pictures that change color when you added water...this was something that kept her busy and didn't make a huge mess either. I also brought small plastic animals, games, coloring activities and more.<br /></li><li>Small soccer ball - Andy got this mini soccer ball and he decided to bring it with us, I was so very happy he did because Blake used it in the airport and at the guest house.</li><li>Car Seat - We got some strange looks when we spoke to Emirates and told them we would be using her car seat on the plane, but that is how we travel...she is much more comfortable in her seat and it helps to keep her in one place. On one flight they even checked it to make sure it was aviation safe. We also were able to use the car seat in the car in Ethiopia. Make sure you have a way to transport your car seat when you are walking through the airport...Andy attaches the car seat to his backpack (I have no idea how) and it works really well.<br /></li><li>Small item to give the new baby/child - We also had Blake bring a special soft toy to give Brecken. She was so excited to be able to give her new sister something. </li><li>Grandy - I know that not everyone can bring someone along to help with everything, but my mom was able to come with us and it was a huge help. For example, she was able to watch Blake while we went to the cultural dinner...she would not have done too good at the dinner...it was loud and we sat for a long time...we enjoyed it, Blake would have probably melted. Thank you mom for coming with us! </li></ul>Kids things in Addis<br /><ul><li>There is a game place in a mall in Addis that has games and a huge play place - if you are bringing children with you be sure to ask your driver or Ryan about this place...it was nice to be able to have Blake go and get some energy out. </li><li>I know you can got swimming at the one of the big hotels...we did not do this, but I believe it is an option.</li><li>We did see some parks...we didn't go to any of them, but they looked pretty cool.</li><li>The guest house we stayed at had a little grass area that was great for Blake to run and play a bit.<br /></li></ul>Yes, it was a lot of work (a ton of work!) to have her come with us, and I wasn't always thrilled about that decision while I was on the trip, but I am so glad that we did bring her. She was able to experience a different culture and see things that average three year old does not. She was able to be there when we finally got her sister. I know this is not an option for all families, but I know there are some families who are thinking about bringing youngsters with them to Addis. I know that when we adopt again, we will be bringing our whole family, if at all possible. Hopefully I answered some questions about bringing little ones with you...let me know if you have any more.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-80078363491815978202009-01-18T07:31:00.000-08:002009-01-19T09:32:12.018-08:00<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>...for all you families who are about to travel...here is my list of things I am glad we brought with us to Ethiopia:<br /><ul><li>Baby Sling - I am a big advocate for baby wearing. I believe it helps to facilitate bonding and helps the little one to feel safe and secure. We put <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Brecken</span> in the sling while we were eating breakfast at the guest house or when we were walking the grounds. It was also useful for when she was having a hard time falling asleep. I would put her in the sling and walk and rock and she would be sound asleep in no time at all. The sling was the only way to do it at the airport too. </li><li>Cipro - before we left we got a prescription for Cipro from our Dr. Cipro is a very strong antibiotic. We started not feeling too great the last few days of our trip so we started the Cipro and in 24 hours we were doing much, much better.<br /></li><li>Formula dispenser - we got this plastic little formula dispenser from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Walmart</span>. It holds enough for 3 bottles...this was so useful while we were on the go. We were also using the bottles with the disposable drop-ins...they were great, but we didn't bring enough and ended up having to wash and re-use a few of them on the way home. We only brought 50...we should have brought more.<br /></li><li>Granola Bars, Snacks and Gum - Normally when I travel internationally I bring snacks and they remain untouched in the bottom of my bag...this was not the situation on this trip. For whatever reason, we ate all the snacks we brought. We would wake up late at night hungry...it was nice to have something we could snack on in the room...we brought some GORP with us and it was so great to have that to snack on.<br /></li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ipod</span> - At the guest house where we stayed they had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ipod</span> docks for each room. We love music and there is usually music playing at our house all the time...we loved being able to listen to our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">ipods</span> when we were just hanging out. <a href="http://www.giggle.com/p/23031/Rockabye-Baby%21-Lullaby-Renditions-of-Bob-Marley.aspx">This </a>was one of our favorites to listen to. </li><li>Large and small zip-lock bags - Having spare bags around was amazing for packing soiled clothes in...we were not able to wash some clothes that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Brecken</span> soiled right before we left so it was nice to be able to just throw them into a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">zip lock</span> bag and not worry about them spoiling the other clothes. We were also able to use the small <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">zip lock</span> bags to store <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">pre</span>-measured formula for the trip home.</li><li>Portable DVD player - We have an amazing portable DVD player that we brought with us so Blake could watch some DVDs when we needed some downtime. This was also so great to have when we couldn't sleep. Don't forget the plug converter<br /></li></ul>Things I wish I would have brought:<br /><ul><li>Water bottle - I realized at the airport that I did not bring a water bottle with me...I would have really liked to have that with me so I could just fill it up with fresh water and go.</li><li>5-10 grocery store bags - These would have been nice to seal the really smelly diapers...especially since we changed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Brecken's</span> formula to the formula that we brought with us her diapers were ripe. It would be nice to be able to bag those super stinky diapers so the smell would not permeate the room.</li></ul>Places to go:<br /><br />Restaurants:<br /><ul><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Makush</span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Italian</span> restaurant with amazing Ethiopian art that you can purchase to bring home. They had some really cool pieces. The food was pretty good too.</li><li>Family Restaurant - This place had good lemonade - Blake was craving lemonade...she was so excited when this place had some.</li><li>Something Dragon Chinese - The hottest Hot and Sour soup ever! We love spicy food but this was an entirely different level of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">spiciness</span>.<br /></li><li>Arabian food - I can't remember the name of this place but their hummus was oh so very good...I could have eaten that the entire trip.<br /></li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Kaldis</span> Coffee - Good lattes...almost like Starbucks</li></ul>We stayed at the <a href="http://ethiopiaguesthome.com/">Ethiopian Guest Home</a>...this place was great! The staff was absolutely wonderful, the food was good, and the rooms were very comfortable. It is about 40 minutes away from the Gladney Baby House and that was the only bummer part about it. We stayed in the family suite and it was so great.<br /><br />We flew Emirates Air...this is the most amazing airline. They had trays and tray of toys that they gave to the kids, baby food and wipes and a small toy for the baby, and pretty darn good airplane food. Not to mention that we got bumped up to Business class from Addis to Dubai. If you have to opportunity to fly Emirates...they are great!!!<br /><br />We also used Susan Parr Travel. They were so great and such a huge stress reliever. It was so nice to know they were there to help us if we needed it. I would recommend using them! Amazing!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-21130601025368957142009-01-16T08:39:00.000-08:002009-01-16T11:51:58.468-08:00We are back and slowly adjusting. Ethiopia was absolutely amazing, but we are so glad to be back and growing as a new family. We arrived in Addis on January 3rd. We were able to drop our things off at our guest house and then we were able to go meet Brecken at the Gladney foster care house...Ryan brought Brecken down to us and she just stared and stared...no tears or anything. She just watched us. I started to rock her and she almost instantly fell asleep. We then went back to the guest house to just to start getting to know each other. She woke us when we got back to the house and then the tears started to flow. We tried it all and nothing would comfort her. She finally went to sleep and was out for the night. When she woke up that next morning she was all smiles...it was an amazing difference. We were able to check her out a bit more this morning...she was just so healthy! The care givers at the foster care center had taken such great care of her.<br />She was definitely more comfortable around us the second day. She loves to snuggle and just be held. We brought the sling with us to carry her and it was one of the best things we brought. She would just snuggle in and hangout.<br />Here is a little slide show of our trip.<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZXgqnkixv_s&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZXgqnkixv_s&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />I'm not really going to do a day by day breakdown of our trip...my brain is still a little shot from lack of sleep and jet lag...I will post some of my favorite things/recommendations from our experience later on. <br /><br />PS - If you have your referral, I may have some pictures of your little one...email me a picture of your baby and I will look through my photos to see if I have something for you!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-7316990801089016492009-01-14T06:34:00.000-08:002009-01-14T06:39:36.232-08:00Home Again Home Again!This is just a quick little post to say hello! We have been home since late on Monday night...Ethiopia was amazing. We are still all adjusting to the time change. Brecken is so amazing. She is sweet, spunky and so healthy. I still cannot believe that we are home with her finally!<br /><br />I will post more about our trip later...we are lacking sleep and just trying to relax and enjoy our new daughter for a while. Can't wait to tell you about our trip!!!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-54272043386271292612009-01-01T18:32:00.000-08:002009-01-01T18:39:23.015-08:00Well...we are in the JFK airport in New York...the first flight from Denver to JFK was great...very smooth and we were able to relax and watch some movies and just take a bit of a break. We have been in the JFK airport since 4:00 this afternoon...our flight does not leave here until 11:00PM...this has been a very long layover...especially with a three year old. We all ready wish we would have packed Blake a few more extra changes of clothes in our carry-on...we will be sure to have enough on the way back. <br />Our next stop is Dubai...we will be staying overnight at the Dubai airport until our flight leaves for Ethiopia on the 3rd. I am very much looking forward to taking a shower and getting some sleep before our last flight to Addis. My mom just said to me...I can't believe that once we are in Dubai we are only 4 hours away from Brecken...so very true...with each flight we are getting closer and closer to her...finally.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-18870389508255700392008-12-31T20:55:00.000-08:002008-12-31T21:01:29.529-08:00We are leaving tomorrow...I cannot believe it. We are all packed and very much ready to go. We will arrive in Addis on the 3rd. We are so excited to finally be at this point in the adoption process. The last few days have been so so crazy. We have been running around getting formula, and medications and snacks and borrowing large suit cases and cleaning the house and just trying to get as much as we possibly can done. We are looking forward to sitting on a plane for hours watching movies and just resting (as much as one who is going to pick up their new child can rest). <br /><br />We apprecite your prayers and amazing encouraging words. Thank you for your support during this crazy time. We are off to bring our baby girl home! Praise God!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-55633830096078945512008-12-21T06:56:00.000-08:002008-12-21T07:06:03.065-08:00I've got a couple of questions about how much our flights were...<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">especially</span> after being told it was $12,000.00 per ticket...each ticket was about 2,000.00...much, much better than 12,000.00! On <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Friday</span> we bought our tickets and made our reservation at the guest house we will be staying at...Friday was the first night that I could actually relax a little bit and I ended up crashing into bed around 7:15 at night - I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">slept</span> for over 12 hours. It was just such a relief to know that we had our tickets and a place to stay in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Addis</span>. The last week was so emotional...I really needed to crash like that.<br /><br />We also got an update on Friday (what a great week!) here is what they said:<br /><br />"<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Brecken</span> continues to become more and more active. She is now working<br />very hard to get anything that is within her reach. whether that be my<br />glasses, my camera, or a toy. She has a sweet personality, and<br />enjoys being held and played with. She has a beautiful smile, and<br />enjoyed playing with me and Enoch when we came to visit.<br /><br />Weight: 7 kg (15.4 lbs)"<br /><br />And a new picture:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SU5bFlKvxcI/AAAAAAAAA-g/U5vY7V1cHfI/s1600-h/Arsema.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SU5bFlKvxcI/AAAAAAAAA-g/U5vY7V1cHfI/s320/Arsema.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282259564386829762" border="0" /></a>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-19552793566739078662008-12-19T06:12:00.000-08:002008-12-19T06:24:22.072-08:00The last few days have been so, so crazy busy with work and church and preparing for our trip...and just relishing the fact that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Brecken</span> will be in our arms in just a few short days.<br /><br />We have been busy checking flights and trying to make our travel lists and everything. On Wednesday we called on of the airlines and was told that a ticket to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Addis</span> would be 12,000.00 (yes, you are reading that correctly)...I remembered all the families who have said such wonderful things about Susan Parr Travel and I decided to call them to reserve our flight. They have been amazing so far. We leave in two weeks! There was no way that I thought we would be leaving so very, very soon.<br /><br />Here is another picture of our sweet <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Brecken</span>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUutzLfBUBI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/W3AO1miujCw/s1600-h/day6to90235.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUutzLfBUBI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/W3AO1miujCw/s400/day6to90235.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281506082789871634" border="0" /></a>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-73849757952203370112008-12-17T10:11:00.000-08:002008-12-17T10:20:30.960-08:00She is offically ours!<div style="text-align: center;">We passed Court! Introducing our daughter, Brecken Hope Arsema Dunn!<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUlBSwQJL1I/AAAAAAAAA9o/Km0R_UQQ5XA/s1600-h/Brecken+copy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUlBSwQJL1I/AAAAAAAAA9o/Km0R_UQQ5XA/s400/Brecken+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280823828514680658" border="0" /></a>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-11582930699710288332008-12-17T05:35:00.000-08:002008-12-17T05:41:29.645-08:00We did not get much sleep last night...I kept waking up and figuring out what time it was in Ethiopia and wondering if that was the time that they were hearing our case in court. <br /><br />This whole thing really hit me last night...WOW! This could be the day when she becomes ours...forever. I will be sure to post as soon as I know any news. Thank you for all the prayers...I got calls yesterday letting me know that they are praying for our case to go through court. We have been surrounded by so much encouragement and love over the last few days. Thank you, dear friends for walking with us as we travel this crazy adoption road.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-87306814624482789512008-12-15T15:48:00.000-08:002008-12-15T16:05:27.876-08:00On it's way...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUbvfJQXgiI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/moq95mYzUHM/s1600-h/DSC01057.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SUbvfJQXgiI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/moq95mYzUHM/s320/DSC01057.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280170931478037026" border="0" /></a>We sent a little Christmas gift for our sweet girl to <a href="http://winterinethiopia.blogspot.com/">Rebecca</a>. She is leaving on Saturday to pick up her baby boy. Lord please grant them traveling mercies! Thank you, Rebecca for blessing us by bring this to her. I had wanted to make this little book for quite a while. It is a little quilted picture book. There are pictures of sweet baby in it as well as her new big sister and mommy and daddy. I used the sheets of cotton that you can print on to get the pictures on to the fabric...that stuff is way cool.<br />Our court date is only 1.5 days away...so crazy. The next few days are so busy for us...thank goodness...it is forcing me to think of things other than Wednesday. I am just praying that God's hand will move all the families who share our court date through without a problem...wouldn't that be amazing if we all made it through!!! Can't wait to hear all the families who pass through court on Wednesday!!!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-24142449959730084932008-12-09T06:32:00.000-08:002008-12-09T06:34:20.641-08:00The Girl EffectI came across this video yesterday and it so speaks to my heart...lots and lots of tears as I watched this.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WIvmE4_KMNw&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WIvmE4_KMNw&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />You can check out the website <a href="http://www.girleffect.org/#/splash/">here</a>.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-51351560256643602072008-12-08T07:41:00.000-08:002008-12-08T08:22:35.679-08:0012:17<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/ST1JbBWLF7I/AAAAAAAAA8g/ImgjY3QK3rA/s1600-h/Untitled-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/ST1JbBWLF7I/AAAAAAAAA8g/ImgjY3QK3rA/s400/Untitled-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277455066914822066" border="0" /></a>Our court day is just nine short days away...can you believe it?! I am so excited for next Wednesday and also a bit nervous. We are asking you to join us the next nine days in praying for our court date. Please take one minute during your day (12:17 in the afternoon) to be praying for our court appointment. Here is how you can be praying specifically:<br /><br />Pray that our case is heard on December 17th<br />Pray that all our documents are complete.<br />Pray for the birth mother - I believe she needs to be at this court day, please pray for her travel, and that she will be given an amazing amount of peace.<br />Pray for all the other families that also have a court date for December 17th.<br />Pray for us that Wednesday will find us full of patience and peace.<br /><br />Thank you for your prayers and support...we have been so blessed by all of your support!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-47795284247526223422008-12-04T16:18:00.000-08:002008-12-04T16:41:15.829-08:00It was a <a href="http://babyethiopia.blogspot.com/2007/12/waiting-and-hoping.html">year ago yesterday</a> that we were waiting to hear if we would be able to start the adoption process with Gladney after having our first agency close down their Ethiopia program. There were lots and lots of tears during this week last year. I remember being so frustrated but also so peaceful...just trying to be patient and wait for God's timing. I remember someone telling me that our little girl was probably not born yet and we just had to wait a bit longer for her to come into the world. A year later...we have less than two weeks until our court date and we know who our baby is. There has been such an amazing change from last year. We are so excited about the changes coming in the next few weeks....God is so good and we are trusting in his timing...it's never failed us yet.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-56942691268709183212008-11-28T13:09:00.000-08:002008-11-28T13:13:36.544-08:00New UpdateWe got a new update on baby B on Wednesday:<br /><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“You may recall from the last update that she has become so much more active in her bed. Her growth over the past few weeks has only made that more of the case! She is incredibly adept at holding onto things and manipulating them with her hands, which makes playtime really fun, because she loves new objects and toys and laughs when she plays. As with most kids, she loves to be touched, and giggles very much when she is, especially on her stomach! Her balance has improved greatly, and though she is not yet sitting on her own, she shows signs that soon she could be. Her movements are still quite jerky, and as a result throw off her balance. Her legs can also bear some weight, which is terrific! On the whole, she is developing and growing right on schedule – you can be proud of her! I know I am. I hope you enjoy your thanksgiving!<br /><br /></span></span>We are so thankful for our daughters...and so thankful for a new update!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-25829633579609686422008-11-23T07:31:00.000-08:002008-11-25T07:44:49.486-08:00Six monthsOur baby girl is six months old today. The time has just seemed to fly by...I can't believe we have known who she is for almost three months now. We can only hope that the coming weeks will just fly by. Like most everyone else, the holiday season is so packed full of activity that the days just seem to slip through my fingers. Our court date is only 25 days away....I know it will be here before I know it. In the mean time, we are praying for our little one and dreaming of the days when we can hold her. Love you baby B.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-31513986842212136902008-11-17T05:59:00.000-08:002008-11-17T06:04:12.988-08:00WOW!Wow! We have gotten quite the response for the quilts...if you are still interested and just haven't emailed me yet, please do so soon because we are planning on sending out the Joel Dewberry fabric soon!<br /><br />If you are unsure because you feel like you have no idea where to start, check out <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/S4V36P3F0ZSTFS4/">this </a>link...it is for a doll quilt, but you can use the instructions for this project.<br /><br />Thank you for the amazing response! We are so glad you are excited about this project. I can't wait until these quilts start coming in the mail!!!<br /><br />Remember, if you want to be involved, please email me at Brittlee17@yahoo.com{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-87992993469431307782008-11-13T07:07:00.000-08:002008-11-13T09:40:05.939-08:00Sending some quilt love...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SRxCy-T3_2I/AAAAAAAAA60/RsVTO-c3f5U/s1600-h/quilt_fabric.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SRxCy-T3_2I/AAAAAAAAA60/RsVTO-c3f5U/s320/quilt_fabric.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268159107603890018" border="0" /></a>My mom if full of ideas. She had the most wonderful idea a few weeks ago...she wanted to get a group of people together to sew quilts for the babies in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gladney</span> care center. We will deliver the quilts to the babies when we go to pick up our little girl. We are thrilled about this project and would love as many people at possible to take part in it. My mom has even sweetened the deal with some prizes from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5208670">Junk Posse Jewelry</a>, her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">etsy</span> store. Here is what she wrote on her <a href="http://junkposse.blogspot.com/">blog</a>:<br /><br />My most recent hero in the creative world is Joel Dewberry. He is an amazing fabric designer and artist. Find out more about his beautiful fabrics <a href="http://www.joeldewberry.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">here</span></a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">. Joel was kind enough to send us a wonderful assortment of fabric to create mini '2x2' quilts to bring to an orphanage in Ethiopia in January.</span><div>If you sew or know a Sew Sister, Mom, Friend or anyone else that sews please tell them about our contest. We will send each person that enters enough Fabric to Make the front of a mini quilt.You may enter more than once-just let us know how many you would like to create. You finish the quilt with your design, creativity & details. </div><div>Mail the finished mini Quilt back by Dec. 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span>.</div><div>We will be selecting several winners on Dec.31st!</div><div> </div><div>First place $100.00 gift certificate to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5208670">Junk Posse Jewelry</a></div><div>Second place $50.00 gift certificate to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5208670">Junk Posse Jewelry</a></div><div>and three runner up prizes.</div><div>Sew what are you waiting for? Enter Today and help to give a sweet little one in Africa something to cuddle with.<br />***<br />If you are interested in being part of this, please email me::<span style="font-weight: bold;">brittlee17@yahoo.com.</span> We are very, very excited about this project. This is a very simple project...you do not have to be a pro-sewer to take part in this.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">EDITED:</span>:</span>Just to be clear, we are asking you to completely finish a 2X2 quilt...not just the front but the entire thing. We will send you some fabric from Joel Dewberry for the front. You will have to get the batting and fabric for the back on your own. <br /></div>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-20392065785026164102008-11-13T06:44:00.000-08:002008-11-13T06:52:14.325-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SRw-cIyFGbI/AAAAAAAAA6s/8VPm_7NiwXc/s1600-h/read.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 211px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_aCLKrMNkFq8/SRw-cIyFGbI/AAAAAAAAA6s/8VPm_7NiwXc/s320/read.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268154317231430066" border="0" /></a><br />I am so excited because I get to hear <a href="http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/nov/13/ethiopia-reads-books-and-donkeys/">this </a>man speak today. He has an amazing organization and amazing plans to introduce Ethiopians to the world of reading. As an avid reader this is a cause that is very close to my heart. Learn more <a href="http://www.ethiopiareads.org/">here</a> and <a href="http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/living/2008/04/30/cnn.heroes.gebregeorgis.cnn">here</a>.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-35129084280332868882008-11-12T13:47:00.000-08:002008-11-12T14:14:04.964-08:00It's amazing how much better I have been feeling now that we have an actual court date. I have been blessed with an amazing amount of peace in the last week and it has certainly helped knowing that December 17<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> is just around the corner. We have been spending a lot of time at home, hanging out with family and friends...just trying to enjoy this season as we wait.<br /><br />We were in Target last week when we saw this woman with a beautiful little girl...it turns out, it was <a href="http://my2ethiopiangirls.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-09-21T10%3A25%3A00-07%3A00">Lisa</a>. I have followed her blog for the last few months. She was able to tell me about a fundraiser for a lady named Hanna <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Fanta</span>. Hanna runs <a href="http://www.childrensheaven.org/">Children's Haven</a> in Ethiopia, an organization that helps to empower Ethiopian girls. They held and Art sale to try to raise funds to build a permanent building for the organization. We were not able to stay very long, but it was so good to be able to see all these people and families who are passionate about Ethiopia. Check out her organization and see if you can sponsor a child for $25/month.{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-11220335952580948312008-10-31T10:04:00.000-07:002008-10-31T10:05:50.538-07:00This is our week!We just got a call from our sweet social worker...we got a court day::DECEMBER 17<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span>!!! Let the count down begin!{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540784281174880936.post-19138624661206136872008-10-30T15:49:00.000-07:002008-10-30T15:51:52.677-07:00We finally got an update...I know it has only been a little over three weeks since our last one...but those were some very, very long weeks.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“... She has become a feisty young girl, and, especially when on her stomach, loves to bounce around, or grab her feet and roll side to side. She isn't able to sit on her own yet, but when you pull her to sitting she is very comfortable! She is one that will talk to you for hours if you give her the time, and she shows off her great smile all the time. She is growing very nicely, and developmentally is doing great! She can lift her head 90º, and is ahead of the curve on her vocals, which is probably because she practices all the time. Also, I may have mentioned it before, but she is very ticklish on her feet!<br /><br />Oh how I love update day! Praise God!<br /></span></span>{B}http://www.blogger.com/profile/16200416034556562946noreply@blogger.com4