MONA PLUS ONE

WARNING! This is a very long post . . .

2012-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

So much has happened over the past six months (I can't believe it's been six months since I last updated everyone). In July we celebrated the Fourth of July and my Mom's birthday. We were very lucky to have my brother Tom and nephew Stephen stay with us for a week. Tom had been working on some electrical items in my home for me and wanted to come down and finish things up. Of course, we welcomed them both with open arms. Janissa loves her Uncle Tom and couldn't have been more happy to have him around. She participated in our neighborhood 4th of July event by decorating her wagon with Cousin Lisa. Janissa had a lot of "firsts", one being attending her first professional baseball game. We watched the Angels play the Mariners with several family members. We had a great time!

Ready for the 4th of July

Janissa attended her first professional baseball game

Mom with several nephews at her surprise birthday celebration

Mom with all six daughters

Throughout the Summer, we enjoyed several O.C. Adoptive Mom's meet ups, trips to Disneyland with our cousins Cheryl, Mark and Makana as well as Char and Kwali, visits to the zoo, an event we hosted at our home for all our Ethiopian friends and Janissa's very first manicure and pedicure. Other firsts for Janissa this year were her first musical at a theater (Shrek) and her first real movie (Mr. Poppers Penguins).

Janissa with Makana

Celebrating a Korean Holiday

Play Date with Weredesh

Event at our Home

First Manicure/Pedicure

Santa Ana Zoo

October was very exciting (and extremely over-stimulating) for Janissa. We used air miles and flew "First Class" to Orlando, FL. My sister-in-law Kathy and her Mom ("Miss Mary") met us there and we spent a wonderful week together at an amazing Disney Resort Hotel. Janissa got to see Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Animal Kingdom and two water parks. Needless to say she was beside herself. Kathy made all the arrangements and I must say she outdid herself. She managed to get us free meals and snacks, reservations at wonderful restaurants and even breakfast with the princesses in Cinderella's Castle! Before we left Janissa had her "first" real hair appointment. A wonderful woman named Linda did cornrows so we wouldn't have to mess with her hair while on vacation. She cried because they have to pull so tight to get them to stay in; however, one they were in she didn't want to take them out. Tons of Disney World photos below:

Magic Kingdom

Janissa's Favorite Princess, Rapunzel

Breakfast with Princesses

Yummy Breakfast

Water Park

Animal Kingdom

Epcot Center

Being silly in our hotel room

Some of the great food Kathy managed to get us for free!!

Yes, I do realize I'm only showing you desserts; however, we did have incredible "real" food as well, including African, Japanese and Italian.

The day after we returned home was Halloween.

Can you guess who Janissa dressed as?

Before I knew it Thanksgiving and Christmas were upon us. We had the school programs and lots of family visiting. Lucky for us, Joe and Flaget were here for both holidays. Kathleen and her family (well part of the family) came for Thanksgiving and Tom, Kathy and the two boys were here for Christmas. As you can see from the photos below, Janissa just adores her cousins, aunts and uncles.

Thanksgiving Program

So many cooks in the kitchen!

Janissa with her cousin "Danny Boy"

With Matthew and Daniel

With Aunties

Christmas came and went so fast! We participated in lots of activities. We made sure we rode the train and reindeer carousel at our local mall, Janissa participated in her school Christmas program, we went to Disneyland 2 or 3 times while it was decorated and spent a lot of time with family and friends. This year we also went to Irvine Park and took the train to the North Pole to see Santa!

For the second year in a row we met all our friends at Chuck E Cheese on New Year's Eve. It's an annual thing that we look forward to. In January we also celebrated Timket, an Ethiopian Holiday honoring the baptism of Jesus by St. John.

At Chuck E Cheese on New Year's Eve

Timket Celebration

All the Beautiful Children

Melat, Malia, Zaela & Janissa

Best Buddies - Kwali & Janissa

Just to catch you up, we found out last week that Janissa needs to have surgery to put tubes in her ears and to remove her tonsils and adenoids. She has failed 2 hearing tests and is constantly asking, "What Mommy?" She has had chronic ear problems since birth and I can't remember the medical term, but basically her ear drums are pushed half way into her ear space. The tubes will help drain all the fluid and the ear drum will eventually move back to where it is supposed to be. The poor thing has been sick more often than she's been well and we hope this will take care of that. It is scheduled for the end of next month.

Finally, this blog has been private for quite some time. I know how much I love to stumble upon and read other people's blogs, especially those raising Ethiopian children, so I am once again making this one public so everyone can see it.

I will try to blog again after the surgery to let everyone know how she does. Until then, take care!

What Have We Been Up To?

2011-06-24T16:25:00.000-07:00

June 24 marks the 2 year anniversary of our "Gotcha Day". I can't believe it has been 2 years since I first held my sweet baby girl! She has grown so much since then. I don't know what I would do without my Janissa in my life! She makes me laugh every day.

She had her 3-year check up this week. She is 3' 3" tall and weighs 37 pounds (75th percentile). She is way ahead of the curve as far as developmental milestones. Aside from some allergies she's pretty darned healthy.

Her favorite foods are anything Mexican (but mostly enchiladas and guacamole), meatballs, chicken nuggets, pasta (if my Mom makes it) and pizza. She can count into her 20's (and up to 10 in Spanish and Japanese). She LOVES Disneyland and the Nemo ride (submarine) and Casey, Jr. Circus Train are her favorites. She can sit through entire movies without moving. She has been potty trained for quite some now now (except at night).

She doesn't sleep through the night yet and I'm beginning to think she never will. She talks non-stop, loves to sing and dance, and continues to amaze me. Next month she will move up to the pre-school class (the "big" classroom) at daycare. She seems excited, but I know she is going to miss her teacher and the kids she's been with the past year.

Janissa turned 3 in May and had a Nemo Party with a few friends and immediate family.

Auntie Lucia made her a Nemo cake

Aunt Kathy gave her a Tutu (among other things)

The boxes were the hit of the party

Janissa's friends

Collecting loot from the Nemo pinata

Tom and Kathy came down to help me out while I was sick.

Joe and Flaget surprised us and showed up at the party

One of her favorite gifts was the Playdoh set from Yessica

Janissa was invited to be in Kathryn (my god-daughter) and Harry's wedding as a flower girl. She had great fun at the bridal shower.

The Happy Couple

Hanging out with the other flower girls

Her hair had gotten really long and unmanageable. She hates it when I brush it out and I had noticed it was several different lengths.

So she had her first professional hair cutting experience. They polished her nails, blew bubbles, gave her a ring, balloon and stuffed shark while she watched movies on her own screen in her own little car. I hope she doesn't expect this all the time . . .

It was soon time for the rehearsal for the wedding. My little girl was out of control - in fact I skipped the dinner and we went home (it was getting really late and we had an early morning). After the rehearsal I didn't know if I should let her participate in the wedding.

She doesn't look like a holy terror

Anna and Rose are behaving

Soon it was time for the wedding and she was a different little girl. She looked so stinking cute I couldn't stand it (all the girls did). And she was well behaved and did everything she was supposed to.

Janissa and Kathryn

Posing for pictures with the big girls

Janissa and Clair

I love this picture

Walking to the church

We're ready to walk now

When she walked past me she waved and said "Hi Mommy"

Okay, so maybe she wasn't perfectly behaved

The bridal party

Kathryn & Harry (the cutest couple ever!)

She danced until I dragged her off the floor at 9:00 p.m.

Then she screamed because "I'm not done dancing yet!"

Other goings on -

My sister Carla got her Ph.D and we enjoyed the graduation ceremony.

Janissa's first baking experience

"I could get the sock out myself!"

She's cute and she knows it - or at least she knows how to work her Mama!

. . . until next time

We've Moved

2011-04-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

We did it!! I sold the tri-level condo and we moved into a one-story house with a big yard in Tustin. Janissa is still adjusting and often tells me she wants to go back to our old house. She can't tell me why when I ask. I just keep reminding her that our other house didn't have a yard for her swing and sandbox and there was no place for her to ride her bike. And where would the Easter Bunny have hidden the eggs????

Here are some photo's from moving day, the front and back of the house and Janissa taking a bath in our huge kitchen sink.

Happy Easter Week

2011-04-18T15:28:00.001-07:00

She Continues To Amaze Me

2011-03-06T19:33:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted forever! So much has been happening. My house finally sold and escrow is set to close on March 25. I found a little (really tiny) 2 bedroom single level home with a huge backyard for Janissa. That escrow will close a few days after mine. We will be staying with my parents for a few weeks as there are a few things I want to do to the new place before we move in. It will be a work in progress for a while as there are several changes I want to make. Janissa isn't quite sure about this whole move thing, but once she sees her stuff in the new house and knows that we are going to be living there together the same as here, I'm sure she will be okay.

I survived a big layoff at my company (Thank God!). Six people in my department were let go. Needless to say those of us still there are incredibly busy. I keep thinking I'm going to catch up, but I'm beginning to wonder if I ever will. I am just so incredibly grateful that I am still there as I had only been there a little over a year. Luckily, the guy in charge knows what my skills are because I worked on his account while employed at CresaPartners, so I was saved.

Janissa loves her pre-school and has a lot of friends there. When she turns 3 in two months she'll moved up to a new classroom. She can't wait to go to the "big classroom". She continues to grow like a weed. She weighs 35 pounds and is over 3 feet tall. We continue to battle with her allergies/asthma, but she's a trooper and doesn't let it get her down. She can count in English, Spanish and Japanese, loves to sing and dance, and has a ton of energy. She is stubborn and speaks her mind when she pleases (wonder where she got that from?). Every morning is a battle because she only wants to wear jeans and her shirt with the hearts (which is in the washer right now). All her adorable clothes - and she prefers jeans.

Life with Janissa is awesome. She potty trained herself. She keeps me going. She keeps me laughing. I love her zest for life. I love her.

Here are recent pictures.

What's Janissa Been Up To?

2010-11-21T15:58:00.000-08:00

Janissa continues to grow like a weed. She is 3 feet tall and weighs about 32+ pounds. She keeps me busy! We have had a very busy couple of months. We visited my brother Tom and his family in Seattle; we attended my brother Joe's wedding in Albuquerque and we visited my cousin Cheryl in Honolulu. After the flights to Seattle and Albuquerque I was concerned about the long flight to Honolulu; but thanks to a little portable DVD player, Shrek and Nemo, she was a perfect angel.

I have posted several pictures to give you an idea of how much fun we've had.

Engagement

2010-09-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my brother Joe who asked Flaget to marry him. She said yes. I have no idea how he got so lucky! We are truly blessed to add her to our family.

Flaget & Janissa

Flaget & Joe

First Annual Toukoul Adoptive Families Reunion

2010-08-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the first ever Toukoul Adoptive Families Reunion in Portland, Oregon. There were 17 children who all came from Le Toukoul Orphanage in Ethiopia. There were also numerous siblings present. Char and Kwali flew up there with Janissa and me and we all stayed with Tania and Sabah. It was a great time, as you can tell from the photos below. It was so nice to meet all the people we had chatted with online and blogged with. A big thank you to Debbie and the other women who arranged a wonderful weekend for all of us.

Warning! Many, many photos attached!

Janissa on the airplane (photo compliments of Kwali)

Tania and Sabah met us at the airport with enough car seats to go around

Our first stop was Vista House, then Multnomah Falls

That night we met up with the other families for the first time

The kids had a great time running around

The next morning we met for breakfast. When the kids were about to take the drapes down, we headed for the Zoo.

How adorable are these three little friends?

It was then time for our Ethiopian Dinner

Janissa decided she wanted to dress casual and undressed herself in the corner

Janissa reunited with her friend Weredesh

All the friends together again!

Sunday morning we said goodbye to Char and Kwali and headed to the Rose Gardens

We said good-bye to all the families at the farewell picnic

Janissa and Naomi on a fun, comfy swing

Where is Janissa?

I guess she wanted to stand out in the crowd

I had business in Portland on Monday, so we got to hang out until Tuesday morning. Janissa and Sabah had a great time together and I enjoyed visiting with Tania and comparing Mommy notes.
Thank you, Tania, for your hospitality and making our stay so enjoyable.

Friends Forever!

Our First Meeting

2010-07-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

This video is way past due. I wanted to post it on June 24, the day I held Janissa for the first time, but working full time while raising a toddler is the equivalent of 2 1/2 full-time jobs! Here it is - then and now.

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Gotcha Day!

2010-06-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

In the world of adoption, the day you first get to wrap your arms around your child is referred to as Gotcha Day! Exactly one year ago I held Janissa for the very first time. I remember it like it was yesterday. The memories of traveling to Ethiopia with my sister-in-law Kathy are etched in my mind and on my heart forever. June 24 will always be a special day for Janissa and I, one that we will celebrate every year.

Check back in a few days for a video - it's much too late for me to try and finish it on time for this post.

Thank You Christy!

2010-06-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

My friend Christy, a very talented woman, made this photo of Janissa for me. It's on canvas covered with Ethiopian newspaper. She was able to capture this image of Janissa from a photograph taken the first time I held her in my arms nearly a year ago. I will treasure this most wonderful gift forever.

If you are interested in having a similar painting of your child, please feel free to get in touch with Christy at christyvk@yahoo.com. I highly recommend you do!

Bonga, Ethiopia

2010-06-01T21:38:00.001-07:00

Janissa was born in Bonga, in the Kaffa Region of Ethiopia. Bonga is located just southwest of Jimma in the Keficho Shekicho Zone of the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (often abbreviated as SNNPR). Bonga sits upon a hill in the upper Barta valley, with an elevation of 1714 meters above sea level. Bonga is the administrative center of the Keficho Shekicho Zone with a population of approximately 20,000. Its capital is Awassa.

The neighboring area is known for hot springs, caves and waterfalls. There are fourteenth century ruins associated with the former Kingdom of Kaffa. The city is a center for the buying of honey and cardamom.

Another family and I hired someone to travel there for us and take photos of the orphanage where our girls first stayed, and to collect other information and photos for our daughters when they are older. I wanted to share some of those photos so you get an idea of where my little girl might have grown up had her life taken another direction. I hope you enjoy this slideshow.

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May 25

2010-05-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

One year ago today I got a call from my Agency. "You Passed Court." Those three words meant that I was legally Janissa's mommy.

Birthday Girl

2010-05-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

What a week it has been! When I picked up Janissa at daycare last Friday, I noticed her nose had started running again and she just didn't seem like her little self. She didn't eat much for dinner and fell asleep early. She woke up around 10:00 p.m. and her body felt like it was on fire. I gave her some Tylenol and brought her to bed with me. Shortly thereafter she got really sick. I won't go into detail, but I will tell you I had to change the sheets and both of our pajamas. The next morning she was still quite warm and not herself at all. It was also my niece Lisa's graduation from Vanguard University. Despite my better judgment, I dressed her up and off we went. She slept through most of the ceremony. Thanks to family members, there were plenty of arms to share the weight of a sleeping child.

Lisa and Janissa

She slept through most of Lisa's graduation party (so did I) and refused to eat anything. I made sure she drank plenty of fluids. Janissa LOVES Lisa. In fact, when her fever spiked Friday night, she insisted Lisa was in the room and kept looking for her under the pillows.

Lisa and Janissa

Not only was Sunday Mother's Day (my first as a Mom), it was also Janissa's 2nd Birthday!

Despite the fact that Janissa was still running a temperature, we went to my parents house anyways as we had family coming to celebrate the two events. She napped for awhile, but mostly sat in my lap or asked to be held. She refused to eat a thing, although she was drinking lots of water and juice. She just stared at her cake when we lit the candles, so at that point I decided it was time to take her to the walk in clinic.

My Birthday Girl

We got to the walk in clinic around 5:30 p.m. Janissa sat in my lap for two hours with her two fingers in her mouth humming Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. I felt sorry for the other people waiting because she really did hum for 2 hours! We were finally called in at 7:30 p.m. The doctor took one listen to her chest and said, "take her to emergency now." So off to CHOC we went. After discovering she had an ear and throat infection on top of the cough and congestion, they gave her Tylenol and took chest x-rays. They didn't think she had pneumonia, so they gave me a prescription and sent us on our way. I found a 24 hour CVS and filled the prescription. I woke her up when we got home at 11:00 p.m. to give her a dose.

She stayed with my parents Monday and literally slept all day. By Tuesday she wasn't getting any better so I took her to our regular doctor who took one listen to her chest and said, "you have to go back to emergency". So off to CHOC we went again. We spent about 6 hours there while they tried to get her fever down. They gave her three breathing treatments and monitored her oxygen levels (they were way down) and her heart rate (which was way up). They finally sent us home with a new antibiotic and instructions to give her breathing treatments every four hours until her cough is gone. By the way, it was pneumonia.

She started feeling better sometime Thursday and for the first time since Friday, ate something. Friday I took her back to our doctor for a re-check. She said even though she is still coughing and congested, she is a million times better than she was on Tuesday. This time she was able to hear a little air getting into her lungs. She prescribed an anti-inflamatory to open her airways and reaffirmed the use of the nebulizer. Today (Saturday) she is almost her old self again and is eating regularly.

Speaking of eating, her new favorite food is avocado. It doesn't matter if it is just sliced, or in the form of guacamole, she loves it!

So that is Janissa's birthday week in a nutshell.

So now she is 2 years old. She moves up to the next level at daycare and I hope that goes well. She is very attached to her classmates. One little boy moves up with her, but he's the one she talks about the least (he bit her once). Janissa is the joy of my life. She entertains me constantly. She makes me laugh every day. She hugs me and kisses me and says "I lub ooo". I don't know what I would do without this little girl in my life!

Legally Janissa

2010-04-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

Today, April 7, was Janissa's readoption day. My Mom and older sister accompanied us to the courthouse and we waited 2 hours until we were finally called in. Janissa was great the entire time and made friends with everyone else who was waiting. She is now legally Janissa Miriam and an official U.S. Citizen!

Home 9 Months

2010-04-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

What a busy 3 months it's been. Janissa has been in and out of the doctors office. She's been to Urgent Care once and the Emergency Room twice. She's had two x-rays, a steroid shot, and been on so many medications that I've lost track.  The latest diagnosis is Chronic Asthma; however, I'm not convinced. I plan on taking her to an International Adoption Specialist who I've heard does a very thorough examination. She came home with this congestion and has only been free of it a few weeks last Summer. She has an inhaler and a nebulizer and neither seems to give her any relief. Fortunately, she doesn't let any of this get her down.  Her spirits are always high. She is very happy and very active.

She started daycare the first of the year. The first week was really hard on me. I cried every time I left her. The second week was hard on her. She cried every time I left her. The third week she got really sick (see above) running a temperature of 103.5. My parents watched her for me for 4 days.  When I brought her back to daycare on Friday she realized she had missed all her little friends and was so happy to be back there with them. She's loved it ever since. They recently separated the toddlers from the infants (too many infants), so now Janissa and 5 little boys are in a class all to themselves. She loves it because she gets to play in the big yard with the 2 and 3 year olds. When she turns 2 in May she will be moved to yet another classroom, but I think she will like it.

By the time we get home in the evenings there is only enough time to feed her and clean her up before she falls asleep. I now find myself really looking forward to our weekends when I get to spend some quality time with her. We usually visit family and friends. We have a couple of Easter Egg Hunts coming up with the Adoptive Mom's Group and Church. She will love that. Her re-adoption hearing is coming up as well.

She is really into her "babies" lately. We have one in the car, a few downstairs and several upstairs. She can't do anything without her baby. She loves to take their clothes off, wrap them in blankets, and give them their medicine and breathing treatments. I got her a little stroller to push them in and it is now her favorite thing to do.

Her favorite song is "The Wheels on the Bus". I'm a little tired of it - I might have to accidentally lose the CD for awhile. That won't be the first time something has gotten "lost". :-) She has an unlimited vocabulary and she's not even 2 yet. I am constantly amazed at what she says and does.  I can actually have a conversation with her! I could go on and on about the cute things she says, but I know you are all just dying to see pictures, so . . .

Here is a video of my 33" tall, 27 lb. bundle of joy!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

January 31

2010-01-30T19:05:00.000-08:00

One year ago today I opened my email and saw this photo

and my life was forever changed

Janissa Update

2010-01-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

Janissa with some of her cousins

She gets into everything

She got so many gifts!!

She's climbing now

She loves her red wagon, a special gift from Uncle Joe, Uncle Tom, Aunt Kathy and her cousins Christopher and Stephen

Not only is she eating with a spoon, she's eating vegetables with spoon!

She's still getting into everything

Aunt Kathy took her to Build-a-Bear

She made a little dog that we named "Bonga"

Taking Bonga for a run

Building a dog is tough work

Did I mention she climbs on things?

The wagon has become permanent living room decor

It's not easy being a toddler

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

2009-12-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve marks the 6th month since Janissa was placed in my arms. I can't believe it - the time has just flown by. She brings me such joy; and she makes me laugh everyday - whether she is sticking Velcro hair rollers on her head or dancing to Handel's Messiah. She loves to sing and dance, especially in church and while we're shopping. If she hears music she joins in! She can now run - fast. She has also started climbing - in the television cabinet, in the refrigerator, on the furniture, etc. She keeps me busy. I am so blessed to have her and I thank God every day for giving her to me. I can't imagine living my life without my Janissa.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for this year:

I have a God who loves me.
I became a Mom to my wonderful daughter, Janissa.
I have the greatest family anyone could ever wish for (that includes my extended family, too).
My friends are incredibly awesome.
I have a beautiful home in a beautiful neighborhood.
My church community is so supportive.
I have been able to spend 5 wonderful months with my new daughter (due to unemployment).
Today I was offered a job with a great company.

God is Good!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Friends

2009-11-25T18:59:00.000-08:00

This week we drove down to San Diego to meet the Zeltin's family from Bend, Oregon. Weredesh and Janissa were so cute together. Janissa gave her a hug and kiss and they warmed up to each other right away. It was great to get to know Lisa and Cory a little and to spend a few hours with them. I can't wait until they visit San Diego again. Here are a few photo's from our time together.

SHE DID IT

2009-11-21T08:11:00.000-08:00

She slept through the night!!!! 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. ALLELUIA!!!!!!

My Baby is a Toddler

2009-11-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

Janissa is 18 months old. At her check-up she weighed 24 pounds and was 30 inches tall. She has 12 teeth and talks up a storm. She is already putting 2 and 3 words together. She loves to sing and dance and play outside. Now, if only I could get her to eat fruits and vegetables . . . and sleep through the night . . .

First OREO Cookie

First Trip to Disneyland with Mama and Cousin Lisa

Janissa Cuteness

2009-11-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

I've been informed that I don't blog enough, so I thought I would post some cute pictures of my doll. Janissa got to meet some of her cousins for the first time and she especially loved Makana who was just her size. She also visited a pumpkin patch and got to trick or treat at Cresa Partners along with many other costumed kids.

Dear Jesus, Please help my Mommy find a job

Trip to Phoenix

2009-10-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

Janissa and I had a great time visiting my brother in Phoenix. We also had the opportunity to meet Tracy and Sean Lowery and their new twins, Owen and Poppy in Tucson. On Sunday, Joe drove us to Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and Jerome. We had visited Jerome when we were kids, so it was fun to go back and take pictures in the same places. We also got to spend time with the Diaz family. They adopted Josiah and Jeremiah from the same orphanage as Janissa. There was a connection between them and Janissa, so I think they must remember something. I also got to introduce Janissa to some people I used to work with. Overall it was a great and relaxing week. Janissa and her Uncle Joe love each other so much and thoroughly enjoyed their week together.

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Three Months!!!

2009-10-05T11:12:00.000-07:00

Janissa has been home for three months. I feel like she has been with me forever. I just love her so much. She is doing so well - growing up so fast. She is a full-fledged toddler. She doesn't know it yet, but she can walk. She thinks she still needs to hold on to my fingers, but really there is no need to. She is going to take off by herself any moment now! She cries whenever I put her in the stroller because she wants to be walking around (holding on to me, of course).

I am driving to Phoenix this weekend to spend time with "Uncle Joe". On Saturday I'm driving to Tucson to meet The Lowery's and their twins, Owen & Poppy. I'm looking forward to it. I'll post about it when I return. In the meantime, here is a short video of Janissa's past month.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Trip To Seattle

2009-09-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

Last month my sister-in-law called and told me she missed Janissa - so would I please visit. Since I wasn't working and won't be able to take a vacation for awhile once I find a job (yes, I'm still unemployed), I found a good airfare and flew up with Janissa and my niece, Sarah. Because Sarah had never been there, we did a lot of touristy things which was a lot of fun. We hung out together, saw some friends, rested and just had a great time. Our last night there, Kathy had Janissa sleep in her room and for the first time in over two months - I got to sleep through the night uninterrupted. Thanks Kathy!

Here are some pictures to show you what fun we had.

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FOR SALE

2009-09-11T17:17:00.000-07:00

Not Janissa - my house. I had no choice. After searching for a job along the entire West Coast for 5 months with no prospects, I decided I better sell before my savings account dwindles away to nothing. So after 7 years in this home, I will be moving on. It's sad because this was Janissa's first home. She has been through so much in her short little life and now I have to move her again. We'll be going inland where homes are less expensive.

Janissa has been home for two months and is doing great. She is now 29" and about 21 pounds. She still amazes me every day and makes me laugh constantly. Here are a few pictures of the gorgeous little girl.

She's adorable, isn't she? Janissa, my niece Sarah and I took a trip up to Seattle to visit Tom and Kathy and the boys. I will post a montage of those photos next time. In the meantime, please pray that I find the job and home that are meant for Janissa and me.

How Messy Could One Girl Be?

2009-08-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

Special Gifts

2009-08-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

Janissa has received so many gifts - all of them special. I am overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support she and I have received from so many wonderful family members and friends. There are, however, a couple of gifts that I wanted to share with you; and those are the hand-made items. I am not the least bit talented when it comes to sewing, knitting, crocheting, etc., so I am always in awe of those who can make such beautiful things with their hands.

The first item is a little yellow sweater made by my good friend Marcia. I can't wait until it fits Janissa!

My cousin Frances wove this darling blanket and also made the mama and baby hedge hogs. So cute!

My sister-in-law Kathy, who lives in the Seattle area and traveled with me to Ethiopia, told a woman at her church my story. The woman's name is Elaine and she crocheted this beautiful blanket that Kathy surprised Janissa and I with the first day we were together.

Finally, a friend told a friend about my adoption journey and this wonderful lady has been following along via my blog. At Janissa's welcome home party, my friend gave me this incredible scrapbook as a gift from her friend - the most amazing scrapbook I have ever seen! She (Marja - www.ppftreasures.com) even downloaded comments and photos off my blog and put them in the book. Janissa and I will add special photos and treasure this book forever.

Thank you to everyone who has welcomed my little Janissa home with open arms and loving hearts!

Home a Month

2009-08-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

Janissa and I have been home for a month now. It was a month of many firsts for her. First time in the USA, first time in a swimming pool, an outlet mall, meeting family and friends, having her own room, tasting different foods (she loves pancakes and toast with peanut butter). Everything was new to her. She has adapted so well. At her doctor's appointment she was 18 lbs. 12 oz. and 27 inches tall. She will have her follow up visit soon. It's apparent she has grown!

Janissa is incredibly smart and has made such progress in only one month. She went from not being able to use her lower legs (muscles hadn't developed) and doing the army crawl to crawling on all fours and climbing to stand on her own. She now has 6 teeth and 2 more are breaking through. She imitates everything I do. She can say mama, outside, pancake and Janissa (sounds like A-Gee-Juh), and many other words.

One thing is for sure - this little girl is LOVED SO MUCH - and not just by me. She steals every one's heart. Okay, now for the moment you've all been waiting for - 11 minutes of Janissa (below) with a few friends and family thrown in. Enjoy!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Beautiful Ethiopia

2009-08-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

I love Ethiopia; it is a beautiful country. But it isn't the scenery, weather or food that I love so much (although I did love the coffee, which they call buna) - it is the Ethiopian people. They are what make the country so beautiful, so rich in culture and tradition. It is the people that will bring me back there some day. Every person I encountered was kind and compassionate. We were treated as one of their own. It is a country where Jews, Muslims and Christians live together in peace. It is a country filled with respect for its past, present and future. I will never forget that they gave me my daughter and look forward to the time when I can bring Janissa back to visit her homeland.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Toukoul Orphanage

2009-07-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

My favorite memories of the trip would have to be the times I was able to visit the orphanage and see the other children, where Janissa slept, and the nannies running around chasing the kids. I've put together a slideshow that I hope reflects the love that overflows from within its walls. Sorry for the irritating music, it just seemed to fit so well.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

The Guest House

2009-07-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

Our first two nights in Ethiopia were spent at the new guest house, the third night in Lalibela and the remainder of our stay at the Villa where Mr. Ferez, the owner of the orphanage, lives. The accommodations were excellent, the food was great and the people were unforgettable. I loved Aster who took care of all our whims from site-seeing to our meals. She was there whenever we needed her. Our driver, Kitama, is someone who will remain in my heart forever. He recently married a young woman named Tigist and I wish them the best. The young girls who worked at the guest houses were awsome. They loved taking care of Janissa while I ate. Everyone who we came in contact with were friendly, loving, happy and helpful. I miss them very much because they were the ones who made the trip to Ethiopia so memorable.

Below is video montage of our stay at the guest houses. You will see my sister-in-law Kathy, Meg DeZutti and her adorable little boy, Sam, as well as my Janissa and me.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Lalibela

2009-07-18T20:46:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Kathy celebrated her birthday while we were in Ethiopia. She is a geologist and really wanted to visit Lalibela where 11 Christian Orthodox churches have been carved out of the rock. It was amazing to take this trip and to see how people outside of Addis Ababa live. Aside from getting very sick from drinking unpasteurized milk and Tej, a local wine (not together of course), the side trip was absolutely amazing. Since there are so many photos of this amazing place, rather than post them individually, I've put them into a slide show. Enjoy!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We're Finally Home

2009-07-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

Janissa is napping and I finally have time to post some information and pictures. What a journey! It was amazing. I met my sister-in-law Kathy at LAX (she had flown there from Seattle) the evening of June 21. Our flight out was delayed, so we didn't leave until about midnight. We flew LAX to London and London to Dubai where we had a 12 hour layover. We hired a female, English speaking taxi driver to show us around and spent the afternoon in an air conditioned mall until we had to get back to the airport for our flight to Ethiopia.

DUBAI

By the end of the day we were exhausted and probably dehydrated. We boarded the flight to Ethiopia and we both fell right to sleep. That was a good thing because I was getting so nervous about meeting my baby girl for the first time that I think I might have gotten sick.

The lawyer was at the airport to meet us with a driver and took us directly to the hotel. We had a room on the top (5th) floor - no elevator. All our luggage and orphanage donations made it to our room, thanks to several kind young men. It was late. We said hello to Meg and peeked at Sammy, took our showers and went to bed. I didn't sleep much. Throughout the night I remember roosters crowing, dogs barking and birds singing.

After breakfast the next morning our driver, Kitama, came to pick us up to take us to the orphanage. Kathy, Meg and Sammy D. accompanied me and Aster said she would meet us there.

TOUKOUL

This time I was in the car driving through the blue gates!

Nervously waiting to meet my daughter.

Gotcha!

She's such a doll.

I just love her.

Back at our room playing with Sammy D.

More about the trip to be posted at a later date. Stay tuned!

2009-06-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

This is the blue gate that leads into Toukoul Orphanage. In a few short days I will driving through those gates to meet my daughter for the first time. I have been anticipating that moment for months. I started the adoption process 16 months ago. I switched agencies when God led me to adopt in Ethiopia 12 months ago. That is when I saw those blue gates for the first time. In 7 days I will board the first of many planes and in 9 days I will be going through those gates. Finally!

I have dreamed of this moment and anticipated meeting Janissa for a long time. But she knows absolutely nothing. Yet in a little over a week she will be handed to a total stranger - who will probably burst into tears if she isn't already crying. How do you tell a one-year old that this is her mommy and that she is going to take you on a 30+ hour journey to a strange place you've never heard of? How do you convince a one-year old that despite the fact that everyone and everything around her is new, that she doesn't need to be scared because she will be loved beyond measure?

This is where Janissa has lived most of her little life. She will soon leave through the blue gate in my arms, never to return - at least not for a long time. As time goes by, she will forget the sounds, the smells, the sites, the nannies who took care of her, her crib mates - but I won't.

As I count down these last few days I am feeling the nerves for the first time. I pray that the life that I will provide her will overshadow the losses she might one day feel as an adopted child in a country so far from her own. I pray that my love for her might come close to the love her birth mother had for her. A love so strong that she was willing to walk away from her so that she might have opportunities that she wouldn't have otherwise.

I'm coming to get you, Janissa. Next week you will be in your Mama's arms.

Look What I Got Today

2009-05-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

An update from the orphanage. Janissa is now a whopping 18.7 pounds! She gained over a pound this month! However, she is still 27 inches long. Look how happy she is now that her Mama is coming to get her. I can't wait!

Janissa Miriam

2009-05-26T11:08:00.001-07:00

God is so good to me. There are no other words that need to be said, other than Thank You! Meet my beautiful daughter . . .

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

My Daughter's Name

2009-05-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

While I impatiently wait for Monday’s court date, I thought I would post about the name I am giving my daughter. The name given to her by her birth mother is Altaseb. All along I had planned to keep her given name as her middle name. I have since decided not to. The meaning of the name Altaseb is “Don’t Remember Me.” I have no idea if her mother didn’t want to remember Altaseb, or if she didn’t want Altaseb to remember her. On two separate occasions, Ethiopian women told me that the name could also mean “Unwanted or Unexpected.” Given the circumstances (Altaseb was relinquished by her mother who was unable to care for her), I do not want to keep her given name.

This is silly, but it was important to me that her first name end in “a” or “ah” because all of her female cousins names end that way and I want her to feel that she belonged and was part of the family (and to keep that little unplanned tradition going). While searching thousands of names and their meanings, Janissa (pronounced Juh-Nee-Suh) continuously came up and was always in the back of my mind. There were many names that I liked, but the meanings were not special enough. Or I loved the meaning, but didn’t care for the name. For the longest time she was going to be Isabella Grace, until I found out Isabella is the 2nd most popular name in the U.S.! My little girl is very special and I want her to have a very special, unique name.

Okay, so now I completely understand why my sisters never told us what they were naming their children until after they were born. Everyone has an opinion about it! So I continued my search, and each time I stumbled upon the name Janissa. I loved the meaning – “God’s Grace” - and the sound of it went well with my last name. I finally just started telling people that her name was Janissa. Much to my amazement, everyone LOVED it. So now I had her first name.

As I mentioned, her given name was just too sad to keep, but I wanted her to have an Ethiopian middle name. I began researching all sorts of Ethiopian names, specifically for what they meant or represented. There were several with incredible meanings, but they were too long or too difficult to pronounce. I finally decided on Miriam, which means “Much Longed For.” Most of you know how I have longed for this child. You know that I started praying for her long before she was even born. You know how I broke down when I found out I hadn’t pass court on Tuesday. I have never longed for anything as much as this little girl. The name was perfect – and it is also a form of Mary! Those who know me really well know how much I love Mary, the Mother of Jesus. So her name is Janissa Miriam and she is loved beyond belief.

Court Postponed

2009-05-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Due to a document that had expired, my court date had to be postponed until Monday, May 25. Please pray that this delay does not affect my embassy and travel dates.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JANISSA

2009-05-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Today is my little Janissa's birthday. She is one year old. Birthday's are not celebrated in Ethiopia, so to her it will be just another day. But to me it is a magical day - my baby is one! How I wish she were home with me already. And while I'm on that subject - TEN MORE DAYS UNTIL COURT!! That's right, 10 days. Which means tomorrow I am in the single digits and counting down.

I had this cupcake at home, left over from my last confirmation class party.

Yes, I put the candle in and lit it.
Yes, I sang to Janissa.
Yes, I made a wish for her and blew out the candle.
And yes, I ate the cupcake.

And as if I havn't spent a gazillion dollars on Janissa already, I bought her this adorable, perfect match for the playroom, little director's chair.

How could I not?

Happy Birthday Sweet Janissa.

p.s. On a not so happy note, my friend Leah and her husband just returned from Ethiopia without their precious baby, Bryce, due to a severe medical problem. Please keep them all in your prayers as they work through this difficult time.

Catholic Vote

2009-05-08T13:56:00.001-07:00

Click on the words below to watch a great video.
Catholic Vote

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She's Growing Up So Fast

2009-05-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

I have only 16 days remaining until my court date. If I pass, I will be Janissa's mother! Amazing! The Zimmer's just returned from Addis with their sweet little Addia. Jenna sent me four photos of my sweet baby (thank you!). Janissa doesn't look like a baby anymore. She will be a year old next week and she already looks like a little girl. When I compare earlier photos with those I have recently received, I cannot believe how much she has grown and changed. I am so very thankful for the photos I have. I feel like I've been able to watch her grow. Jenna said "Little Janissa is such a peanut! She is such a sweetheart! You will enjoy lots of cuddles and hugs from her!" I can't wait - but at the same time it's so surreal to think that in as little as six weeks she could be in arms forever!

To toy with my emotions even more, I'm now in a position where I have to find another job. My current position isn't working out as planned, so I've been sending out resumes. I don't expect to be unemployed, but please pray for me that I find something soon and that my new employer be considerate of my role as a new mama.

Another Update

2009-04-22T19:01:00.001-07:00

I received two more photos from my agency today, along with an update on Janissa. She is now 27 inches long and weighs 16.7 pounds. My sweet little girl is getting so big. She looks very healthy, and still very scared. She has no clue why
her picture is constantly being taken.

The Zimmer's left today to pick up their sweet Addia! Yeah! They will be taking pictures and delivering gifts to Janissa from her Mama. The Litty's will be on their way to pick up Bryce in no time at all (Yeah Again!) and will also be taking pictures for me. I am so ready to go take pictures myself. Poor baby, no wonder she is scared, her mother is picture-crazy. . .just can't get enough of her cute little face.

COURT DATE IS ONLY 27 DAYS AWAY!!!

The Latest News

2009-04-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Janissa is 11 months old. She is 26.8 inches tall and weighs 15.4 pounds. She looks great, although I've only seen her smile once. She is very skeptical of strangers, especially those with cameras that flash. She can sit without support, babbles and reaches for familiar people. She also cut her two bottom teeth (darn, I missed it!). She is a thumb-sucker. It doesn't look like she favors one over the other. In the video I received (thank you, Michael), she goes from the right thumb to the left in a matter of seconds.

I am anxiously awaiting my May 19 court date (35 days away for those who are counting down with me). I still expect to travel mid-June.

We celebrated Easter at my parents house yesterday. I made my first Ethiopian dish called Fosoleay. It is green beans and carrots with lots of spices. I think it went over pretty well.

Here are a few photos, starting with Mom's Traditional Easter Cookies:

The "guys" sitting in the newly landscaped, not quite complete patio area:

Finally, the cousins enjoying each others company:

2009-03-16T14:36:00.000-07:00

Not much has transpired since my last post. My court date is still May 19, despite my agency's attempts to get our dates moved up to an earlier date. I am so ready to go pick her up. One family recently traveled to pick up their little sweetheart, Ayana, and surprised me with a video of of my Janissa! Thank you Rick and Amber! To say I've watched it a hundred times would be an understatement. I've memorized every little move she makes. I watch her eyes go from the ceiling to the camera, back to the ceiling, back to the camera. There is something up there that is mesmerizing her, but she doesn't want to take her eyes off the action in the room. Whether that is a result of fear or curiosity remains unknown. She is very calm and quiet, not a peep out of my girl. She did not cry; I could tell she felt safe in her nanny's arms. It was apparent she knew the visitors taking her photo were strangers. She had a few chicken pox on her face that were apparently on their way out. I hope that is true.

Shortly after I received the video, we found out a sweet little one year old who had been referred to one of our Adoption Avenues families had passed away. We were told due to complications from the chicken pox. Radu assured me that cases like this are very rare. My heart goes out to that family as I am sure they loved their little girl as much as I love mine.

Jenna and Dan have their court date next Tuesday and my prayers are with them. They will soon be able to travel to pick up their bundle of joy. How exciting! I've sent her a little package to give to Janissa; and of course, she is going to take more photos for me. I am very happy for them.

Now, if we can just get Tracy and Sean's twin referrals, all will be well!

Mona Plus One

2009-03-02T19:36:00.001-08:00

I made this widget at MyFlashFetish.com.

It's Getting Closer!

2009-03-02T15:53:00.001-08:00

My Court Date is May 19th! If I pass (and I can see no reason why I wouldn’t) Janissa will be legally mine. Travel will be approximately 4 weeks after that, once my Embassy Date is established. My sister-in-law has investigated every possible flight we can take using our air miles (First Class, Of Course!). She’s managed to find a route of only 22 to 23 hours, with only one layover on the way home. Kathy, what would I do with you?

Several families with my agency have the same court date, so I will get to meet a lot of them while I am in Addis. It will be so much fun to see the faces of the people I have communicated with over the past several months, and share in the excitement of holding our children for the very first time. Leah, do you have a date yet?????

Three families have recently traveled to pick up their children and have been kind enough to take pictures of Janissa for me. I now possess NINE pictures of her. As soon as I pass court, I will be able to post them here so you can see how beautiful she is. Thank you Melissa, Quinn and Amber!

Janissa currently has the chicken pox, poor baby. She didn’t have too many (I saw 5 on her face), but she looked tired, her eyes were glassy and her lips were parched. I wish I were taking care of her right now. I know she is in good hands. Chicken Pox has been going through the orphanage since December and the nannies are doing a great job of nursing the kids back to health.

So the count down begins – 79 Days!

2009-02-11T18:22:00.000-08:00

In September of 2007 a child was conceived in Ethiopia. At that very moment, God knew that child would be mine. I didn’t. He had to slowly convince me. It was easy, He knew I loved children. All He had to do was show me the love between a mother and daughter. They sat in front of me every Sunday at church, and my heart longed to have what they had. I made the final decision to adopt exactly two months before that child was born. I thought she was in Eastern Europe, but she wasn’t. I was led to another part of the world, and exactly one month after she was born, I signed the contract with my current agency to find the child that God had destined to be mine.

On Saturday, January 31, I saw her face for the first time. It was love at first sight. I had been praying for her and loved her already, but to actually look at her and see her face simultaneously brought tears to my eyes and took my breath away. She is perfect. Her innocent, but wise eyes mesmerize me, so big, so dark, so scared. What do her perfectly shaped ears hear every day? Her delicate, full lips look so serious and I cannot wait for the day when I see them relax and smile. Her little hands are clasped together so tightly as if begging someone to pick her up. Or praying for someone to love and care for her. Don’t worry my sweet little Janissa, I will be there as soon as I can!

Oh Happy Day!

2009-01-31T12:01:00.000-08:00

I was checking email and stalking blogs this morning when my cell phone rings. I looked at the incoming call and saw a 503 area code. My first thought is, "Oh, Tania is calling me" because it is a Portland area code. I answered and it was Radu on the other end. He tells me he's been thinking about the travel package I am putting together for him and that he just sent me some information he wants me to include in it. I go to my computer and press the "send/receive" button. Sure enough, an Adoption Avenues email pops into my Inbox. He tells me to open it, which I do. All it says is "Hello. How are you?" But then I notice there are 3 attachments and immediately tears well up in my eyes. Is this my referral? Radu, is this my referral? YES!!!! I'VE RECEIVED MY REFERRAL!!!

So I call Lucia, who I promised would be the first to know. I'm reading all the social and medical information to her: 8 month old girl, father passed away, mother has no means to care for her, she's healthy, from an area southwest of Addis. Now I'm ready to see her face. I forward the photos to Lucia because she wants to see her the same time I do. Okay, ready, 1, 2, 3 DOUBLE CLICK.

WAIT! Mine isn't opening, don't look at her before me! It didn't work for her either. I called Radu and told him I couldn't open the photos. He has me download some viewing program and told me to try opening them again. To make a long story short, when I saved the photos as Word Documents, the medical/social information opens up. So they weren't even photos to begin with.

I now have 3 copies of the paperwork, and no photos. I plan to accept her regardless, but I really want to see her face and look into her eyes, the windows to her soul.

That is all I can tell you right now. I cannot post photos until she is legally mine. Wow, legally mine - my Janissa.

The Adventures of Sabah

2009-01-27T17:59:00.000-08:00

Tania and Sabah came to visit for a long weekend. Tania recently traveled around the world to pick up her beautiful daughter, Sabah, in Ethiopia. I was able to experience how wonderful it is to hear the sounds of a baby in my home. I also got to hear the sounds of an angry baby crying in my home and guess what? I haven't changed my mind. No one was injured in my home over the four day stay, so I think it might be safe to bring home a child of my own. Here are a bunch of photos of Sabah's first visit to California.

We met up with new friends and had lunch at Rain Forest Cafe.

Lisa, Zaela, Sabah & Tania

Zaela trying out a chair at Pottery Barn Kids

New BFF's Sabah & Zaela
(Sabah warmed up my stroller, car seat and high chair for Janissa. She gave me a thumbs up!)

Sabella!

Sabah ready to dive into the fountain

Saturday we picked up my nieces Sarah & Leah, met up with friends of Tania's, and had lunch in Little Ethiopia. The food was awesome!

Sarah & Leah

We got ice cream and strolled on Venice Beach

Sabah's first time on a swing

Leah posing for Auntie Mona

We stopped at Tom's Farm on our way to the Lake Elsinore Outlet Mall

Sabah driving the tractor

Sabah playing with Anna & Rose

Monday we went to the petting zoo in San Juan Capistrano. Sabah tried to eat the goat food, and the goats tried to eat Sabah.

Showing off her new sunglasses!

Mama, why isn't the pony moving?

Tania, thank you for sharing Sabah with me. The weekend was a blast and I can't wait for Janissa to meet both of you when she is finally home.

Special Friends & Family

2009-01-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AUNT MARYANN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARTA

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, TED & KATHLEEN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (ALMOST), LUCIA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (ALMOST), STEPHANIE

Hope I didn't forget anyone!

Update

2009-01-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

Two families have received referrals ahead of me. That finally gave me the nerve to call Radu personally and ask him what was going on. His previous response of "some families are luckier than others" wasn't doing it for me. Between my sobs I managed to spit out, "you said 3 to 4 months, and it has been over 4 months" (but whose counting, right?). It turns out, because the courts were closed all of August and September, that my wait time didn't start until the courts reopened in October! That's right! I'm definitely not one of those "lucky" ones. That means it could be an entire month before I hear anything. No, I'm not happy. I have now waited the longest amount of time for a referral from Ethiopia than any other family at my Agency. Not an accomplishment I want to boast about. So he tells me to 'keep praying' that it will be (let's all say it together) S-O-O-N!!!!!!! Radu had previously told me that based on the amount of time my dossier has been registered in Ethiopia, that I should be next. That is why I called him when a second family received word. Soon. Soon. Soon. Soon. Soon!

On a positive note . . . I am looking forward to next weekend when Tania and Sabah will be here for a visit from Portland. Sabah is going to test everything out for Janissa: the crib, stroller, car seat, high chair, baby proofing of my house. So if Sabah is happy, I'm good to go! I can't wait to meet them in person. I've taken off 2 days from work so we can go out and play! Whoo Hoo!!!

By the way, despite my sadness of having to wait, I am sincerely happy for the families at my agency that have received their referrals, as well as the families who have court dates and will be traveling soon. Amber - you'll pass this time! I just know it!

SOON!!!

2008-12-31T13:27:00.000-08:00

SOON, according to Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, is defined as immediately; at once; without undue time lapse; before long (after sunrise); in a prompt manner; speedily; before the usual time.

For the past SEVERAL MONTHS I have been told that my referral will be here “SOON”. Someone forgot to alert Webster that the definition of this word has changed to ‘sometime in the next millennium’ or ‘when ever someone gets around to it’.

By the way, the word right above ‘Soon’ is ‘Sonsy’ which means luck; happiness. How ironic is that?

The week of January 12 is my 4-month mark. I have been told numerous times that I would have my referral by then. Okay, I’ve waited this long; I can handle two more weeks. God has a plan and if two more week’s means getting the baby God intended for me, then two more weeks it is. When I first joined the Yahoo Group everyone told me to get ready because they had all received their referrals in a matter of days, and at the most, within four weeks. That is the reason for my worry, frustration, anxiety, etc. Many doubts and crazy thoughts have been going through my head such as they think I'm too old or they are limiting the number of single people who can adopt. Thank you to my board buddies for keeping me grounded.

I had a great Christmas with my family. Here are a few photos:

My two youngest nephews

My 5 beautiful nieces

My 12 nephews who hate to pose

My Dad made these shelves for my

siblings and me

All 33 of us in the same room!

As I wait and pray, I know that 2009 will be an incredible year for me, one that I will always look back on with fond memories. I wish all of you and yours a

HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR!

ADVENT

2008-12-20T09:55:00.001-08:00

I haven't posted in a while because I have been feeling discouraged. I guess I'm tired of the same answer I always have to give to those who ask: "I'm still waiting for my referral." Who in their sane mind likes to wait for anything? I don't like waiting in lines, waiting in traffic, waiting for people who don't respect other people's time. It's my pet peeve. But in this little bubble we refer to as Southern California, where instant gratification is always within our reach, I stopped a moment to meditate on this time of the year. It's Advent, and at this time of the year aren't we all doing the same thing? Waiting for the birth of our Savior? How cool is it that I am actually waiting for the announcement of my own daughter at the same time? So this Advent is extremely special to me. Maybe this Christmas Day will bring an extra special joy to my heart - Jesus AND Janissa. To have my referral come now would forever make this season, my favorite time of the year, that much more blessed. Jesus' timing is miraculous and this Christmas I'm expecting my own miracle. So I ask all of my blog followers to pray with me this Advent season for this additional miracle.

Thank you to my friend Tania, who just brought home Sabah, for being so encouraging. Isn't Sabah adorable?

And thank you to my other new friend, Leah, who has even called me to talk personally and has gone out of her way to bring me peace. Leah just brought home Aslynn, another cutie!

Congratulations to Stephanie and Joseph who welcomed Clair into the world this Advent season.

(Sorry, Clair, this is the only picture I have of you)

Thank you also to all of my family, friends, co-workers, fellow church-goers and bloggers who help to keep my hopes up during the "waiting" period. I love you all.

Finally, thanks to my incredibly awesome confirmation students for their dedication, love and support. You all bring me hope for our future!

So here I sit in my PJ's on a Saturday morning at nearly 11:00 a.m. drinking coffee and sampling the brownies that just came out of the oven and thanking God for all of my blessings and for all of you!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Christmas Cards

2008-11-23T20:18:00.000-08:00

My niece, Lisa, is trying to raise money for a mission trip to Kyrgyzstan at the end of this year. She is selling these amazing Christmas Cards that were hand-made by men and women in Africa.

Each card has a unique nativity scene on the front and is blank on the inside. If you are interested in purchasing any, and helping my niece, please e-mail me at monadube@sbcglobal.net with your order. A pack of six cards is $10.00. Thanks.

Adopting Janissa

2008-11-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

Anticipation
Frustration
Expectant
Annoyed
Waiting
Hopeful
Eager
Optimistic
Trusting
Confident
Uncertain
Joyful
Sad
Scared
Anxious
Desirous
Believing
Hesitant
Skeptical
Wanting
Incomplete
Yearning
Distracted
Panicked
Eager
Blessed
Pessimistic
Happy
Delighted
Fortunate
Gracious

And that is just what I feel the first hour of each day!

It's My Party and I'll Cry if I Want To!

2008-11-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

Well what do you know? When I woke today I had turned 50. I had hoped that I would at least have my referral before this monumental birthday, but it wasn't to be. To make matters a little worse, Ethiopia has recently decided to "limit" the number of adoptions to single women. One woman using another agency e-mailed me to say that her wait time is now 3 to 4 years! A friend told me she knows a single woman who had received a referral and it was actually taken away from her! I was devastated at this news. My agency (dear Radu) tells me "this is just rumors;" but I fear he may have been given false information. I'm panicking, even though he has told me that "everything is just as it was". I checked other agencies websites and they have removed single women requirements and only show couples married at least 2 years. I must place my trust in the Lord. If Radu is correct, I will have my referral around Christmastime and travel before March of 2009. Please pray.

On a positive note, many of my new friends at the agency have passed court and will be traveling over the next 2 weeks to pick up their bundles of joy. Congratulations to Tania, Leah, Joy, Jeanne, Alicia, Lisa and all the others! My prayers are with you for a safe and happy trip.

Happy Birthday to my friend, Shelley, who shares this day with me! Thank you to all my family and friends for the cards, phone calls and e-mails. You've all been great during the past nine months and I appreciate your love, support and encouragement.

A Beautiful Day in Los Angeles

2008-11-09T18:42:00.001-08:00

Saturday was a beautiful day in Southern California. My friend Jim met me at my sister's house in Los Angeles in the morning and we went to both The Getty Center and Getty Villa museums. We couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather and the view from both museums was breathtaking.

I absolutely LOVE taking photos and went nuts that day. Here are a bunch of my favorites.

My attempt at abstract art.

Too bad we don't have more of this in SoCal!

Reflection.

Jim looking somewhat reflective.

The Garden.

Me and Jim.

We can see for miles and miles.

I hate to have my picture taken. He made me do it.

Jim posing for me. I didn't even have to beg.

The eyes are the window to the soul.

A pond.

A beautiful end to a beautiful day!

Thanks Jim!

Sebastian "Bud" Gallaro (Jan. 12, 1935 to Oct. 28, 2008)

2008-11-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

I lost my Uncle Buddy last week. He had fought off cancer for 14 years. In the end, it was a blood clot that took his life. It was bittersweet - saying goodbye to him, but at the same time being around my extended family, some of whom I hadn't seen in awhile. The saddest part is that his younger daughter Cheryl, son-in-law Mark, and grandson Makana arrived a few hours after he passed away. He never got to meet his only grandson. My heart aches for his immediate family who were shocked at the suddenness of his death; and for my Mom, my Aunt and my Uncle who lost their brother. May his soul rest in peace. We miss you already.

On the adoption front, I'm still 'w a i t i n g' for my referral. It seems like forever.

The Reveal

2008-10-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of you have been waiting for this moment as anxiously as I have. My construction is done! What was supposed to take 2 1/2 weeks ended up taking 3 months. It was incredibly frustrating and I am still not done battling with the HOA. The windows are "still under review" according to a letter I recently received from them. My construction crew told me Mr. Old Former Engineer Board Member was recently seen looking at my windows with binoculars. Please, I beg of all of you, if my life ever becomes that pathetic, go ahead and pull the plug.

Enough of that, here are some photos; the first is my bedroom with the wall completely enclosed.

My dining area with the new lower ceiling. I was even able to hang a lamp.

Two photos of my new and improved living room. The construction crew did something to my gas fireplace and it is no longer operable. They told me to have it fixed and send them the bill.

This is the first of the two new rooms upstairs. It is a playroom/loft area where we can read, watch Disney movies, play and be rocked to sleep in the new comfy glider.

Did you pick up on the jungle theme?

Finally, the new bedroom for my little girl who I plan to name Janissa.

This is a cool growth chart from my BFF Dana. It matches the room perfectly!

I hope you enjoyed that little tour. My office is a work in progress. Stay tuned for photos of that room when I finally get up enough strength to start putting the new desk together. It arrived in two extremely heavy boxes that I had to have others get up the stairs for me.

Love

2008-10-17T19:15:00.001-07:00

Marie Francesca Breda was only 5 years old when she died this week. She accidentally swallowed a bead. By the time they were able to remove it, her brain had suffered great oxygen loss. She lay in a coma for a week before Jesus came to take her home. My prayers had been requested and I prayed long and hard for this little girl whom I had never met. I prayed so much that I felt a connection with her. I loved her. I looked at her photos daily and read entries written by her family, friends, relatives and complete strangers. Somehow this little girl in the last week of her life brought thousands of people together to pray, to remember what is really important in life and to realize that our sole purpose in life is to love and to be loved.

I am not a mother yet, but God willing, I should be within a few months as I wait (impatiently) for my referral for a little girl. I recently read a story written by a mother who recently brought her adopted daughter home from Ethiopia. She hadn't fallen in love with her daughter yet. Entries by other blog followers told her she was doing fine, that the love would come. Quietly inside I disagreed. She anticipated this child, she knew about her and had seen photos before she went to pick her up. Why didn't she love her? Other stories she had written gave me an answer. This woman does not believe in God, so she never prayed for her daughter. Marie Breda proved to me that it is possible to love someone you haven't met yet. I have been praying for my future adopted daughter ever since I made the decision to adopt and I already love her so much that there is no doubt in my mind that that love will only continue to grow each day. Prayer is a powerful ally to have on your side.

Marie, may you rest in the peace of your Savior and may your family find peace in knowing you are now at peace.

WALLS

2008-10-12T19:26:00.000-07:00

At the request of my sister-in-law, Kathy, here are some pictures of the walls.

This is going to be the playroom.

This is the 42" wall separating the stairwell from the playroom.

This is the bedroom. That is going to be the closet.

And these are some of the adorable clothes that will go in the closet!

From what I understand, texture and paint will happen this week. Hopefully carpet goes in on Saturday. Then it's just final inspection and trim work.

Please continue to pray for Marie Francesca Breda who is hanging on to life by a very thin thread. Her family is asking for a miracle.

An Angel Needs Your Prayers

2008-10-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

Please pray for this beautiful sweet angel, Marie Francesca Breda. Thank you.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mariebreda

Whoo Hoo!!

2008-10-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

My contractor called me this afternoon to tell me that I passed inspection! Yippee!! He said when I come home from work tomorrow I will actually have walls.

That means I will no longer need to use my decorative pillows for privacy.

It means that soon I will have a door on my bedroom.

And I will be able to walk into my office.

And have guests stay in the guest room.

And actually open my refrigerator all the way!

And for those of you who are a bit visually impaired, here are two pictures of the windows.

What it should look like:

What it does look like:

Now what do you think?

They Will Match The Existing

2008-10-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY NIECE, TIRZAH! I LOVE YOU!!

So, my contractor told me that the new windows "would match the existing" windows. That is what I told my neighbors when I asked them to sign off on them prior to construction start. Do these windows look like they match?

I didn't think so either. The Board and Management Company are going to have a field day with this one. Oh joy, I am so looking forward to the upcoming week.

On a positive note, we had a shower for Stephanie on Saturday. This is her first baby and she received so many wonderful gifts. Friends are such a blessing! The greatest blessing was that Kathryn was able to fly home from school in Florida for the weekend and surprise her sister.

The food was good.

The company was great.

And a wonderful time was had by all. Congratulations Joseph and Stephanie. We can't wait for Clair to join the family!

Fire Anyone?

2008-10-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

YAY!!! The fire sprinkler pipe that has been in the middle of the new hallway for 2 months is gone! Finally! I have more holes in my kitchen ceiling, but that's okay - because the pipe has now been relocated. The sprinkler work in the garage is finished, too. So as soon as they get Fire Department inspection (Selvin, can you do that yet?) they can finish the additional beam in the garage, get rough inspection, drywall and finish everything up. I'm waiting for a firm date before I schedule carpet installation because I've already had to cancel on them once.

In celebration of construction moving forward I was going to post a photo of my baby's bedding to give you an idea of the color scheme and theme of the room. But being so technically challenged, I couldn't find the photos on my computer, I believe because of a new program that I recently installed. So instead, I'm showing you how my name looks in Amharic, the primary language of Ethiopians. FYI, there are over 120 languages spoken in Ethiopia.

And this is what my (soon-to-be) daughter's name looks like in Amharic. Those of you who don't yet know what her name is, see if you can figure it out.

Conversation With Agency

2008-09-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

I received an e-mail from Radu at my Agency yesterday and my heart just about stopped. Radu was just e-mailing me with the Fed Ex Charges, but the conversation went like this:

Me: My heart skipped a beat when I saw your e-mail because I thought maybe I had a referral. Hopefully soon. Have a nice weekend.

Radu: no sooner than 3-4 months.

Me: I know, but I turn 50 in 2 months and I'm afraid that is going to scare them. I've been praying for a miracle, and miracles do happen! I'm going to keep praying.

Radu: let's keep praying.

The poor guy probably gets several e-mails a day from PAP (Potential Adoptive Parents) just like me. He has to tell us that the wait time is 3 to 4 months because it could take that long and he doesn't want to get our hopes up. But the truth is, the longest anyone has had to wait (that I am aware of) is 6 weeks. So, I keep praying.

No news to tell you about my construction. Is is exactly where it was the last time I posted. I sent an e-mail to the President of the management company, and even she hasn't responded. They cannot figure out who monitors the fire alarm. And they are the ones that set that up. Amazing . . . I have been reading blogs of others adopting from Ethiopia and they have really exciting things on theirs like photos of the baby's rooms and cute little outfits, etc. So this shall serve as your warning - next post is going to have photos - and you know I can't show her room yet!

Waiting for a Referral

2008-09-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

My agency tells me my dossier will be in Ethiopia in the next day or two. I've joined several on-line Yahoo Groups for potential adoptive parents of children in Ethiopia, one specific to my Agency. The families (who have received referrals already) tell me to prepare myself. One couple received a referral for infant twins 3 hours after their dossier arrived!!! One woman received hers the day after it landed in Ethiopia. The longest anyone currently waiting to travel from my Agency had to wait was a month. They are currently waiting for court dates. The courts have been closed for 2 months because of the Ethiopian New Year festivities currently taking place. They will re-open the first of October.

Now if I can just get my construction finished. I have signed a Covenant required by the Association. It holds me liable for damage directly resulting from my improvements as long as I'm the owner. The document is to be recorded and runs with ownership. The Board, the management company and their attorney are terrible communicators. I can't get anything out of them, nor can my contractor or attorney. I've signed the document and we've complied with all the other items requested in their letter. All we want to know is can we finish the construction. A simple yes or no would be awesome - but all we get is silence. I suppose I should enjoy the "quiet" while I have it, right?

Some Good News - Some Not So Good News

2008-09-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

The good news is that my dossier is authenticated and on its way to Ethiopia!!!! I ask for prayers for a quick referral because I so want my baby home for Christmas.

The not-so-good news is that I am still battling with my Home Owner's Association regarding my addition. They still aren't talking to me. Supposedly they want me to sign something assuming all liability for the building (yes, the entire building, not just my home) going forward. It has been an entire month since any work has been done. I continue to eat on the floor as all my furniture is jammed into my office, spare bedroom and kitchen. I have no door on my bedroom and no blinds on the wall or windows. I've jammed pillows in between the studs to keep inquiring eyes from being able to see anything (not that anything is really worth seeing).

I've contacted my attorney and he will call the Association attorney tomorrow.

Stay tuned . . .

A Minor Setback

2008-08-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

I have not posted any updates lately because nothing has changed over the past few weeks. The construction is still as the pictures below depict because my HOA demanded the contractors stop and had their attorney send me a threatening letter. Yes, the HOA has put a halt to everything! Why? They claim they didn't know I was adding rooms inside my house. I have proof that they knew well before construction started - I have no idea why they waited until I was half way done to say something. I also have proof that my contractor did not adequately fill out the application, something the contract obligates them to do. The HOA Board is meeting tomorrow night (8/25), so I hope to have authorization to finish on Tuesday. If I am told I have to remove what is already there? Let's just hope we don't have to go there. . .

On a positive note - all my paperwork has been certified and sent to my Agency. This coming week everything will be sent to Washington D.C. for authentication. I am guessing that will take about a week. Then it all gets sent to Ethiopia and I wait breathlessly for the phone call that will tell me I have a referral.

I had a shower recently. My god-daughter Kathryn (and her mom, Marcia) wanted to have it for me before she left for school in Florida. I am so blessed that so many people care about me and support me in this endeavor. I don't know what I would do without all of you. Only 2 or 3 people have given me a hard time - it's hurtful, but I will learn to live with it.

I think being a Mother is the greatest gift that God could give to a woman. I am honored and blessed that He finds me worthy of caring for one of his orphaned children. I promise to do everything in my power to be the best Mom possible to this little girl, and I pray the day come soon when I see her face for the very first time.

Check for an update later in the week. Let's hope it's a positive one!

Thursday, August 8, 2008

2008-08-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

The construction continues to evolve at a rapid pace. After only 4 days the new rooms are taking shape. I would take a walk on my new floor - but the big boarded "X" across the opening leads me to believe it's not quite safe. I guess I'll have to wait a few more days.

Construction - Day Three

2008-08-05T19:39:00.000-07:00

These guys work fast!!!!

Let the Demolition Begin

2008-08-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

For those of you who aren't aware, I am adding two rooms in my home. I have 20' ceilings over my living/dining areas and I plan to add a bedroom and playroom. My second bedroom was on the lower level and I was uncomfortable with the thought of having my soon-to-be daughter so far away from me at night. I will be posting photos of the construction periodically so you can check on the status of the new rooms. Here are a few photos of what it looked like when I left this morning (8/4/08).

JOYFUL!!! JOYFUL!!!

2008-07-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

What a joyful day! Immigration approval (Form I-171H) arrived in the mail July 24, 2008. My entire Dossier (20 notarized documents) is on its way to the Secretary of State to be "certified". That process, I believe, takes approximately 2 weeks. Upon completion, the original, certified package will be forwarded to my agency (Adoption Avenues) in Portland, Oregon. They will then make arrangements to have my dossier "walked" through The Department of State and The Ethiopian Embassy in Washington D.C. where everything will be "authenticated". That process takes 2 or 3 days. I am not sure if everything goes back to my Agency or if the Embassy sends it directly to Ethiopia. Once it arrives in Ethiopia it will be translated and delivered to The Ministry of Women's Affairs who reviews it and provides the referral. I've done my part - the rest is in God's hands. And I trust Him 100%.

"We witness a miracle every time a child enters into life.

But those who make their journey home
across time and miles,

growing within the hearts of those who wait to love them,

are carried on the wings of destiny and placed among us

by God's very own hands." (Kristi Larson)

Toukoul Orphanage

2008-07-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

I am so happy. I FINALLY received Immigration Approval!!! As I wait for final documents to get back to me (next week), I find myself constantly searching for information about Ethiopia and its people. The internet is full of wonderful information. I was able to locate some on-line videos of the actual orphanage where my daughter will come from. I've posted the links to the right under "Great Links" as Toukoul Orphanage Parts 1 & 2. I hope you enjoy them.

Ethiopia

2008-06-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

I have already come to love the beautiful country of Ethiopia and its people. It is situated near the Red Sea and is surrounded by the countries of Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya and Sudan in Eastern Africa. Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in the world. In fact, the oldest remains ever found (a woman given the name "Lucy") was recently unearthed there. Ethiopia is also the poorest country in the world. It's population is approximately 75,000,000, half of which are under the age of 20.

Ethiopia's seasons are different from ours. I am hoping to travel in October or November which is their Spring. Summer begins in January and I will definitely want to miss that! It's calendar system is also different from ours. They have 12 months of 30 days each and then a 13th month with 5 or 6 days. The beginning of each of their months begin in the middle of ours.

I am looking forward to traveling there and meeting the people. To see some incredible photos of the country, people and its beautiful orphans, go to http://www.whfc.org/ - click on Adoption Programs / Ethiopia / individually on 2007 Photos and 2008 photos.

The Switch

2008-06-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

I terminated the San Diego agency and hired the Oregon agency. They were very nice about it – and I am still retaining them for post placement reports. Ethiopia requires 3 follow up reports by a licensed social worker at 3, 6 and 12 months after adoption. Reports are then due annually until the child is 18 years old; however, those will be submitted by me. Both agencies are currently working together to transfer paperwork.

The new agency (Adoption Avenues Agency) tells me I will have a referral within 2 to 4 months of dossier submittal. Once I accept the referral, all the Ethiopian paperwork will begin and a court date will be set. One to two months after the referral is accepted by me, I will travel to Addis Ababa for one week. I also have the option of having the child escorted to the USA; however, it is recommended I travel to Ethiopia in order to begin bonding with the child in her own environment. Also, should it be discovered the child has major medical problems while I am there, or if there are any other difficulties, I would be able to get another referral. I plan to go there as I want to see where my child came into the world. And God bless my sister-in-law Kathy who still plans to travel with me. She really wanted to see Russia and I’ve bounced her all over the world. Kathy, was Ethiopia high on your list of places you really wanted to see?

For those of you not familiar with what a dossier is – it is a ton of paperwork that needs to be completed, notarized, authenticated and translated prior to being sent to the country of adoption. I was very near completion for Kyrgyzstan, so hopefully Ethiopia wants the same type of paperwork. It contains very detailed information regarding my medical history, assets, family, employment, police clearance/fingerprints, birth certificate, guardianship, home study/recommendation, and verification of residence, just to name a few of the required documents.

As fate should have it, my I-600A USCIS (Immigration) form had not been approved yet, so I do not have to file an Amended form. Apparently the individual who live scanned me input the incorrect birth date, holding up approval and saving me about $200. When the revised home study is complete, it will be sent to USCIS to be matched up with the I-600A. That gives me the permission of Homeland Security to bring an adopted orphan into the USA.

There you have it – the current status on my road to motherhood.

“Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.”

The Beginning

2008-06-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

I seem to be living my life in reverse. I was born 6 weeks early. I was supposed to arrive at Christmas, but my Dad said I smelled the turkey and decided to come early. I was small at birth, but size-wise caught up fast. By looking at me today, you'd never guess that I was preemie; although I've discovered that I exhibit a lot of the characteristics common of children born before their time.

I hated school, but loved to shop. I got my first job at age 13 and have been working ever since. It took awhile for me to catch up academically, but made it through and graduated from high school with straight A's. I didn't want to go to college, but my parents encouraged me to at least finish junior college, which I did, mostly to please them. And then I started working full time.

I had always planned on getting married and having a large family, but God obviously had other plans for me. I say this because I am nearing the big '50' and I'm still single. But I'm not complaining.

To fill my life I did what most retired people do; I traveled the world! I have visited such exotic places as the Canary Islands, Morocco, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Spain, Italy (my personal favorite), France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Ephesus, Istanbul, England, Ireland, China, Japan, and Israel to name a few. Typically after one retires and travels, they buy a vacation home and relax. I wasn't ready for that yet (nor could I afford it), so what does one do to occupy her time?

This girl went back to school to obtain the degree she never got. I started college in 2003, well into my 40's. It was tough, but I never stopped. At one time I was working full time while taking 9 units. I am proud to say I graduated from Chapman University in 2007.

So, what does a single woman do when she's finished college? Most, I would say, find a husband, get married and start a family. Once again I'm deciding to skip a step.

I remember as I was growing up I always had a soft spot in my heart for children. I would see pictures of the little kids starving in Somalia or some other third world country and my heart would ache for them. I wanted to adopt every single one of them. I would beg my Mom (a mother of 8!) to adopt some of them promising to help her. She thought she had enough kids already, imagine that! I always wanted to work in an orphanage, and my friend Dana often told me I could run an adoption agency on my own. I have volunteered my time at Orangewood Children's Home and most recently as a CASA; however, there was still a yearning inside of me. I believe God has been leading me to this stage for a long, long time. It took awhile, but I am now clear on what He wants me to do.

Throughout my discernment process, I made it a point not to talk to anyone about this as I wanted the decision to be my own. Late in February of 2008 my answer came to me through a little girl (Mary Kate) who always sits in front of me at Church; and I decided to adopt a daughter of my own.

Having received positive responses and resounding support from my family and friends, I started researching and surfing the web like I've never surfed before. Initially I believed I was to adopt from Ukraine and started down that path, but was soon told I was too old and would have to take an older child. Since then, Ukraine has passed a law that refuses to allow single persons to adopt.

I then researched Russia and thought that would be an ideal location. I signed a contract with an agency in San Diego that said I would be able to adopt a toddler; but just as my home study was being finalized, laws changed in Russia and I was told at best, I would be offered a 3 or 4 year old. I spoke with the agency director and asked what country would allow me to adopt a child under 18 months. He suggested Kyrgyzstan and said I would be able to adopt a little girl from 3 months to 24 months of age. So the home study was completed and the dossier paperwork began. I was also placed on "the list". I was told there were 15 families ahead of me for an infant girl.

A family that had already received a referral recently traveled to Kyrgyzstan. While there, they discovered the baby girl had a medical problem that they were not capable of handling, so they chose to decline the referral. To my amazement there were no other infant girls available for this family to adopt. So they made the long trip back home. Now, after being on "the list" for nearly a month, I have actually been bumped back a space and there are now 16 families ahead of me.

This distressed me because I realized that there really is not a "need" for adoptive parents for infants/toddlers in Kyrgyzstan, so I started researching again. I wanted to go where there were children waiting for a forever family to take them home and love them. I already love my daughter, wherever she is, and I was determined to find her.

My search led me to a country that I hadn't even considered initially - Ethiopia. That country has over SIX MILLION orphans! This is a country where medical care and supplies are scarce and hundreds of children are orphaned daily. There are so many orphans awaiting to be adopted that I am told I will most likely receive a referral as early as 2 months after dossier submittal. Travel is typically about 2 months after that. Kyrgyzstan was going to require two trips; the first for about 2+ weeks and the second thirty days later for 7 to 10 days. Ethiopia only requires one trip for about a week. And did I mention that agency and country fees are about 1/3 that of Eastern European adoptions?

Tomorrow I will send my contract termination letter to the San Diego agency and sign up with an agency located in Oregon. As my dossier is near completion, all I need to do is notify U.S. Immigration of my country change. As soon as I get clearance from Homeland Security, I will wait anxiously for my referral. I cannot wait to hold my little girl in my arms and bring her home.