The Shrader Family

Christmas Party Part II...

2012-01-15T22:07:00.000-05:00

Good friends, good times and lots of good food...

Personalize a free photo collage

Christmas Party Pictures - Part 1

2012-01-15T21:57:00.001-05:00

Better late than never...

A picture collage by Smilebox

Christmas Babies....

2011-12-21T09:35:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to those of you who have received your long awaited referral. I'm sure this is one of the best Christmas gifts you have ever received. Wishing you all speedy TA's and safe travels.

Merry Christmas!!

A Sad Goodbye...

2011-12-20T00:27:00.003-05:00

10/20/2000 - 12/18/2011

Smuckers, our sweet big yellow boy, left us yesterday. His loss has left us with a profound sadness and a huge hole in our hearts. Goodbye sweet boy, you were the best and we will never forget you.

Referrals are in...

2011-11-28T20:33:00.000-05:00

to those families who received their referrals in this batch! I can only imagine what a wonderful early Christmas present it must be. Wishing you all speedy TA's and safe travels.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before August 07, 2006.

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-11-23T21:39:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and yours a day filled with family,

food and fun.

Have a great weekend!

Paper Chase Round 2...

2011-11-18T14:54:00.000-05:00

has officially begun... First packet requested has been completed, sent back and accepted by CCAI. Second packet was received yesterday via e-mail. I forgot how much paper getting the immigration portion of this was!

Angels Walk the Earth....

2011-11-13T23:12:00.001-05:00

...in the form of friends. If ever there was a doubt in our minds it was washed away with the generosity of our friends Mike and Teri. They truly embody the spirit of selflessness, generosity and kindess beyond measure. We can't put into words how much we appreciate and love you both. Thank you doesn't seem big enough but those two little words are sincerely heartfelt. We love you guys!

Finally a Few Halloween Pics...

2011-11-12T23:46:00.000-05:00

Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker

Luke aka Joshua

Darth and Luke, father and son

Joshua and Linda, the resident golf cart skeleton

The Star Wars family

Linda showing off her gold tooth

Aunt Kelly & Joshua

I've got the Best Friends...

2011-11-12T23:35:00.001-05:00

I came into work the other day and this was sitting on my desk waiting for me...

Isn't it just the cutest thing!?!?

Thanks Jeni, love you!

2011-11-01T00:25:00.002-04:00

Hope you all have a great night trick or treating with your little ones!
Have a safe and fun Halloween...

Matches Have Arrived...

2011-10-24T17:31:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to all those families who are or who have received their referrals today! Wishing each of your families speedy TA and safe travels ;o)

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered before August 2, 2006.

Great Quote...

2011-10-19T09:22:00.000-04:00

Countdown Over...

2011-10-18T12:27:00.002-04:00

On October 17th Karmen & Greg finally finally experienced the legendary "gotcha" day and met their daughter Ella for the first time! So excited for this fellow Ladybug to have reached this amazing end to an extremely long and often frustrating journey.

Wishing you all the best as you begin your new life as a family of 3!

Congratulations Ruben and Maria...

2011-10-11T22:38:00.004-04:00

Our friends, Ruben and Maria, welcomed the birth of their daughter Almundena Robin Clisanchez this morning. Wishing you all the best as you bring your little one home!

Halloween Hang Time...

2011-10-09T22:48:00.016-04:00

This weekend we had some girl fun making Halloween crafts and goodies. Thanks Jeni, Lynn, Danielle and Cathi for brining the girls over for some fun.

Tori and Hope

Cathi, Keira, Lynn, Mallorie and Jeni

Hard at work...
Hope, Cathi and Keira

Sam

Thank you Tori...

2011-10-03T14:19:00.004-04:00

"An invisible red thread connects those destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstances. The thread may stretch or tangle, but never break."

- Ancient Chinese Proverb

Our very special niece, Tori, made me a red thread bracelet to wear while waiting to bring our daughter home. It's great and so are you kiddo! You will always have a very special place in our hearts.

Tori, we love you to the moon and back ;o)

Referrals are in ...

2011-09-28T14:40:00.002-04:00

... to all those who are seeing their little ones faces today! You're almost home.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before July 28, 2006.

It's been 5 years...

2011-09-13T00:30:00.002-04:00

Its official, we’ve been waiting for 5 years and 7 days for our referral from China! Never in our wildest dreams did we ever come close to imagining that it would have taken this long to bring our baby home. I can also say that I’m amazed that we’re still “waiting” at all. For those of you who that have followed this nerve-wracking journey you know that until a few weeks ago we were basically done, with a capital D.

As the wait has lengthened I slowly stopped posting here. How many times can you vent about things beyond your control and expect people to read them? After awhile posting even the good times was hard because this site was created to document the journey that would bring our daughter home. The conclusion to that journey seemed impossible; it felt like we would never be able to reach the end with our dreams intact. Time passed and exacted its toll on us. We grew older, the economy tanked and emotionally we had taken a severe beating. The doubt had crept in and taken root and I couldn't see my way past it anymore. Matt had given up a long time ago and I was hanging on by a thread. A thread that had been worn and frayed to the point that one more tug could have broken it.

So what happened? God did! Some close friends (thanks Jeni & Dave) introduced us a too couple who had adopted from China. Ever heard of people being put in your lives for a reason, a season or lifetime? We have met our reason people! Meeting Chris and Cathi have helped us to put things back into perspective. Their story is very similar to ours and watching them with their daughter has given us hope again.

There is still a long way to go and a lot to do, but for now hope and faith are enough to keep us going.

Happy Chinese New Year...

2011-02-02T22:59:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Year of the Golden Rabbit! The Rabbit is the 4th sign of the Chinese zodiac and is a lucky sign. Chinese tradition says that the Rabbit brings a year in which you can catch your breath and calm your nerves. It's a time for negotiation not force. To gain the greatest benefits from this time, focus on home, family, security, diplomacy, and relationships.

Happy 2011...

2011-01-03T11:46:00.004-05:00

2010 Christmas Card

2010-12-09T21:48:00.001-05:00

Merry Montage Christmas

Turn your pictures into personalized Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

I'm An Elf...

2010-12-07T10:46:00.000-05:00

You Are An Elf

You are highly creative and artistic. You are good at working hard.

While you love to work, you also love to play. You have a naughty side to you!

You love pulling pranks and teasing people. You always seem to be getting into some sort of trouble.

People can rely on you to be industrious and responsible... but you're going to have fun while you're getting stuff done.

Are You An Elf or a Reindeer?

Blogthings: Take a Quiz. Annoy Your Friends.

Please Send Cards Christmas Cards...

2010-12-02T22:13:00.004-05:00

I know many of you have the same heart for our soldiers that I do. The picture above is a link takes you directly the Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes site. This site provides instructions for sending Christmas cards to our heroes here and abroad. Please grab an extra box of cards this year and send a message of care and support to some of those who sacrifice so much for us. They need to know that we support them and are keeping them in our prayers at this time of year and every day. I got my box and I hope you will find it in your hearts to send some too.

God Bless and Merry Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T01:38:00.003-05:00

Wishing you all a great day filled with family and friends,

good food, and cozy couch for when you're done!

I am thankful...

2010-11-25T01:14:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for so many things ~ my husband, my family and my friends.

I'm thankful every day for all the love, support, friendship, shoulders, and smiles they each add to my life. I am thankful I have enough. Enough love to carry me through, friends to brighten my days, and enough money to get by. I am thankful for our soldiers who fight to protect my freedom and for the sacrifices their families make.

Thank you to all of you who are a part of my life
and for all that you have added to it.

Congratulations Dave & Jeni

2010-11-08T11:11:00.002-05:00

Our friends Dave and Jeni were married Saturday in a beautiful outdoor ceremony . The reception was wonderful and everyone had a great time.

Thanks for allowing us to share your day,

we are so happy for both of you.

Love you!

...Pictures to follow ;o)

Am I Really Still Counting?

2010-11-08T10:53:00.001-05:00

November is Adoption Awareness Month...

2010-11-02T23:33:00.003-04:00

THE GARDEN

I did not plant you, true.
But when the season is done-
When the alternate prayers for sun
and rain are counted-
When the pain of Weeding and the pride
of Watching are through

Then I will hold you High
A shining sheaf above the
thousand seeds grown wild

Not my planting, but by Heaven
My harvest-My own child.

Just a Thought...

2010-11-01T20:44:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween...

2010-10-30T11:31:00.001-04:00

Wishing you all a load of fun trick or treating with

your little ghosts and ghoblins!

Congratulations Christina...

2010-10-22T21:11:00.010-04:00

Mark 10:8

Tomorrow is your big day, the day that you've dreamed about for so long. Tomorrow as you say your I do's, I will be thinking of you and hoping that all your planning has made the day all you've dreamed of and more.

Wishing you and Jason all the best!

Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction. ~Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Opening Night Win!

2010-10-10T08:36:00.002-04:00

Yes, the hockey season has officially begun! Last night the Lightning played the Thrasher and won 5-3. With all of the changes (new owner, manager, coach and system) it should be an interesting season. Looking forward to watching the team grow and adapt to it all.

GO BOLTS!!!

48 Months...

2010-10-04T23:21:00.002-04:00

Not sure if I'm still counting or not...

Referrals have arrived...

2010-09-30T10:17:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to all of you who have recieved your referral in this batch. You are on the last leg of this incredible journey, finally! Wishing you all a wonderful experience traveling to China and incredible "gotcha" days ;o)

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before May 18, 2006.

And the boys are back...

2010-09-23T23:40:00.004-04:00

the regular hockey season is almost here again! The Lightning have won their first 2 pre-season games. Hopefully, these wins are the first of many this season. We've got new ownership, new management, new coaches, and lots of new players.

Last night, this young'un (Blair Jones) dropped veteran Chicago defenseman Nick Boynton with a hard left in a short fight during the 2nd period. Way to go Blair!

LETS GO BOLTS!!

Just a thought...

2010-09-22T16:47:00.003-04:00

"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending."

Happy Birthday...

2010-09-11T10:59:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday Brian, hope you have a great weekend! Of course, I know you will since you're spending it with us ;o)

Grandma, I think about you every day and know that in heaven, where you are, all of your birthday wishes have come true. I love you and miss you!

Today We Remember...

2010-09-10T15:06:00.004-04:00

We remember those who lost their lives in such a terrible act of terrorism. We remember our heroes - firefighters, policeman, plane passengers, soldiers and our neighbors. We remember with clarity where we were when this tragedy struck. Some huddled around TVs in conference rooms, others around TVs in cafes or bars, while others listened on the radio. Time stood still as we watched the Towers fall and the enormity of the event began to sink in. The terror and shock were overwhelming. The grief beyond comprehension. Nine years later the wounds are still raw.

From the ashes and plane debris arose a new pride in our country and a unifying strength we had long forgotten. We were ready to defend our country and each other. People gathered together to do whatever they could to help one another through. We were united against a common evil. Lives were forever changed.

Today my greatest hope is that each of you takes a moment to remember those lost, their families, and all of the men and women in the armed forces, law enforcement and fire department who serve and protect us. Remember the strength of purpose and unity you felt during the weeks and months that followed. Rekindle the passion and compassion that carried you through and most of all never forget.

Happy Labor Day...

2010-09-05T18:42:00.002-04:00

Hope you all have a great day relaxing with your family and friends!

4 Years...

2010-09-05T18:21:00.003-04:00

Still trying to figure out my thoughts on this... I'm kind of at a loss for words. How do I explain the last 4 years of excitement, anticipation, longing, disappointment, frustration, and loss? It's a vicious cycle, one that has repeated itself several times over the last few years to varying degrees, for different lengths of time. Many, if not all of you, can relate to this in one way or another. How many times can one work through this cycle before you begin to question the path you've started down? It turns into the big questioning cycle - Did I miss something? Did I make the wrong choices? Why? Can I continue down this path? Should I continue? When? I don't have the answers.

Long week...

2010-09-02T12:22:00.001-04:00

Stop the ride... I want to get off...

2010-08-25T16:16:00.004-04:00

I'm guessing from the title you already know that this is going to be a whiny post. Since you guessed right if you don't want to hear it you might want to skip this one.

Stop the ride, I really, really want to get off... I had such high hopes for 2010 and YTD it's been a big disappointment. I was hoping the iffy 2009 would be replaced by something better, not necessarily an amazing on top the world kind of year, but definitely one that was better than last year. Well guess what, it's not anything close to being better than last year. So far 2010 has been one of those years I wish we could fast forward. It's the year Murphy's Law was slapped on our household like it was invented just for us. We can't catch a break, I mean not even a little tiny break. I mean the hits started in the first week of January and keep piling up. It seems like we can't string together a few weeks without some kind of crisis happening - illnesses and death, unexpected expenses (major unexpected expenses), frustration and stress have wiped me out. This isn't even factoring in the whole adoption thing either! I'm typically an even tempered person, it takes a whole lot to keep me down but I just can't keep up anymore, so can I please jump off the ride? Maybe if I go and go hide in the corner Mr. Murphy will forget about me!?!?

Happy Birthday Matt..

2010-08-22T20:39:00.001-04:00

Hope all of your birthday wishes come true. Luv you!

2010-08-17T10:18:00.002-04:00

to all of you who have finally reached this milestone.

Your wait is almost over! Wishing you all speedy TA's and wonderful "gotcha" days!

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose application documents were registered with their office before May 15, 2006.

It's Been Awhile...

2010-08-03T23:03:00.006-04:00

since I've posted anything. June and July were busy, busy months filled with lots of ups and downs. The best I can do to fill you in without writing a book is a bullet post, so here we go...

June

~ My step-dad, Alex, was hospitalized and passed away on June 23rd. Please keep my mom and the rest of our family in your prayers. This is going to be a tough adjustment for us all.

~ Happy Birthday to my mom (6/26) and my cousin Melissa (6/29). We still need to celebrate ;o) Love you ladies!

July

~ We went back to Minnesota for vacation and spent a week with good friends. It was great to hang out and relax. Thanks guys for having us!

~ Lucy graduated from puppy school. (barely, lol!)

~ Happy Birthday Tori (7/2), Dave (7/15), Nancy (7/17) and Dad (7/27). Hope all of your birthday wishes come true!

August

~ A new addition was added to our circle of friends, welcome Croix! We can't wait to watch you grow. (see 8/3 post for details)

~ Happy Anniversary Matt! It's been 15 years and we're still going strong. Love you!

August will continue on with the craziness. I will post some pictures as soon as I download them.

Welcome Croix Anthony ...

2010-08-03T16:18:00.006-04:00

Our friends Mark and Lynn welcomed their son Croix Anthony into the world today. He was born at 12:42 PM, weighed 8 lbs. 4 oz. and was 20.5" long.

He's beautiful guys! Congratulations!

Congratulations...

2010-06-08T13:35:00.002-04:00

to all of you who received your referrals this month.

Wishing all speedy & safe travels and incredible "gotcha" days.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families

whose adoption application documents were registered with our office

before April 26, 2006.

44 Months...

2010-06-08T13:31:00.002-04:00

of waiting and waiting...

TGIF...

2010-06-04T12:55:00.003-04:00

Happy Memorial Day...

2010-05-31T10:17:00.003-04:00

To all of you who have served this country, I offer my sincerest thanks.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Memorial Day!

Please Remember Our Veterans...

2010-05-27T13:45:00.001-04:00

Introducing Lucy...

2010-05-24T21:45:00.003-04:00

Lucy is our newest addition, she is a 3.5 month old black lab/retriever mix we got from the Humane Society a week ago. In a word she is a handful! One minute she is a little monster and the next she is all cuddly and sweet. Very smart but equally as stubborn! She terrorizes our cats and Smuckers (our 9 yr. old yellow lab mix) and chews on everything she can fit in her mouth but we love her to death.

Something to Count on...

2010-05-21T09:55:00.002-04:00

Hebrews 6:19 provides this promise

"… hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls"

Forever in Our Hearts...

2010-05-12T17:43:00.010-04:00

Daisy

Oh how much I love my beagle girl!

I must shout it to all the world

Everyone must know about this dog of mine,

For I will love her for all time.

Oh how much I love my beagle girl!

For you see, she brightened the whole wide world.

Daisy was also the sweetest you see

And well, she just completed me.

Oh how much I love my beagle girl!

To Mommy and Daddy you were our pearl.

While she may be gone, we will never be apart

Because forever she will stay deep within our hearts.

~ Matt Shrader

Daisy, we love you and miss you more than words can express.

Thank you for all the joy and love you brought into our lives.

You will now and forever be a part of us.

Just a thought...

2010-05-11T13:57:00.000-04:00

Referrals are in...

2010-05-11T13:44:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to all those who have received referrals this month. Wishing you all speedy travel arrangements and wonderful forever family days.

Update: The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before April 21, 2006.

And the count moves on...

2010-05-07T08:54:00.002-04:00

It's been 3 1/2 years since we were logged in with the CCAA. At one point that number was inconceivable to me but now it seems like a drop in the bucket compared to how long it could be.

Today I feel like that crumbling paint in the picture. The wait combined with lots of other things going on in my life is making me feel old and worn down. So much time has passed and so many things have changed. For the first time I really wonder if we can stick it out. No, I have not given up the dream but somehow it seems that the dream is just a dream. Right this moment I can't picture the happy ending.

Joshua Turns 7...

2010-04-22T17:35:00.006-04:00

My nephew, Joshua, turned 7 on April 18th and to celebrate he had an ice skating party this year. He is fortunate to have had such a great Aunt and Uncle drag him around the rink for a few hours (as evidenced by the top photo. )

Referrals have arrived...

2010-04-05T17:33:00.002-04:00

to all of you who are seeing your childs face for the first time.

Wishing you all speedy travels and wonderful "gotcha" days!

CCAI has reported they received referrals through April 17th but the CCAA website has not been updated yet.

43 Months...

2010-04-05T16:12:00.002-04:00

How much longer can we wait?

Happy Easter...

2010-04-02T16:46:00.003-04:00

Wishing all of you a wonderful Easter weekend!

Good Friday...

2010-04-01T23:11:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day...

2010-03-16T13:49:00.003-04:00

May your blessings outnumber

The shamrocks that grow,

And may trouble avoid you

Wherever you go.

~Irish Blesssing

Congrats to the Clark Family...

2010-03-05T16:24:00.003-05:00

on their new son. Can't wait to see him home and with your family!

You can check him out at their blog Handsful,

And the count is currently...

2010-03-05T13:15:00.003-05:00

months and counting...

Referrals have arrived...

2010-03-01T15:26:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to those families who have received referrals this month!

Wishing you all speedy travel arrangements and wonderful "gotcha" days!

The CCAA has placed children with families whose log-in date was before 4/11/06.

Congratulations...

2010-03-01T14:38:00.004-05:00

to the following families ~

Radicchi

Berryhill

Chandler

who have recently received referrals!

Wishing you all the best as you finish the journey to bring your children home :o)

Year of the Tiger...

2010-02-12T13:21:00.003-05:00

According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of 2010 is the Year of a Golden Tiger, which begins on February 14, 2010 and ends on February 2, 2011. The first day of the lunar New Year 2010 falls on the 14th day of February, which is Saint Valentine's Day, so it is a day the West celebrates as a lovers' day, a day of romance. To the Chinese, it is the start of the Golden Tiger Year. The Tiger is the third sign in the cycle of Chinese Zodiac, which consists of 12 animal signs. It is a sign of courage. This fearless and fiery fighter is revered by the ancient Chinese as the sign that wards off the three main disasters of a household: fire, thieves and ghosts. On New Year's day itself, it is beneficial to celebrate, to be happy, to have smiling faces, and to refrain from scowling, quarreling, or criticizing anyone.
The Tiger

The Tiger is one of the most beautiful creatures on the planet, and is feared and revered in equal measure. It features in many Asian cultures as a manifestation of courage, power, passion and royalty. In Feng Shui, it is one of the four celestial animals where it takes its place as the White Tiger. The other three celestial animals are the Green Dragon, Red Phoenix and Black Tortoise. The Tiger symbolizes the female Yin energy as opposed to the Yang male energy of the dragon. Ancient Chinese believe that the markings on the forehead of tigers resemble the Chinese character for "Wang", or King. In Imperial China, where the dragon is the insignia of the emperors, the tiger is the military emblem of the highest supreme commanders of the army symbolizing fearlessness and victory. The Tiger also represents earth, while the dragon represents Heaven.

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-12T13:09:00.004-05:00

Hope you all have a great weekend of cuddles,

kisses, and lots of love!

Happy Birthday to You...

2010-02-12T10:41:00.004-05:00

to my sister-in-law Jennifer (13th), my brother Steve (15th), and me! For those of you who don't know my brother and I share the same birthday. For those inquiring minds - no, we are not twins but were born exactly a year a part.

Between birthdays, Valentine's day, the Chinese New Year, and President's day we've got a busy weekend ahead.

Wishing you both a great day and I hope all your birthday wishes come true ;o)

Thanks for the girls night out...

2010-02-12T10:01:00.008-05:00

My awesome friends and I went to Orlando last weekend for a girls night out. We stayed at Lake Eve Resort, had dinner at the House of Blues and then a little dancing at Atlanta Dance Company. On Sunday we did a little shopping at Downtown Disney. We had a great time!

Here is some typical behavior during picture time!

Thanks girls, your the bestest! Luv you ;o)

Get Out So I Can Work...

2010-02-11T11:03:00.002-05:00

“And when Jesus came to the ruler’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, ‘Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.’ And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose” (Matthew 9:23-25).

Get out of here so I can work! Oh, how we hate distractions and noise, both things that pull our concentration away from the task at hand. In our passage today, the ruler had sought out Jesus and told him his daughter had died, but he believed Jesus could bring her back to life. “Jesus, come into my house and do the impossible,” he asked. But the crowds would not believe. It wasn’t until they were turned out that Jesus chose to perform this miracle. Why? We can only speculate, but I see an analogy here.

There are times I call on Jesus. I want him to come fix my life, or my thoughts, or revive a new spirit within me. I open my heart and ask Him to come in and heal me. Perhaps my spiritual house is full of other distractions – hurt, anger, frustration, pain. The nagging is still in the back of my mind – things can’t change, this is the way it is, why hope? Maybe it is coming from well meaning friends, or the TV, or my own desperation. Maybe these negative thoughts come from a more evil force that trembles at the name of Jesus?

All I know is before I can see Jesus in my life reviving me, I need to clear that ruckus away. I must give Him control over the situation so I can concentrate on His healing power alone. He stands patiently, knocking on the door of my heart. I am here. Waiting. The beauty of it is I can also see Him helping to clear all the garbage away. His Truth is the broom to sweep away all that doesn’t honor Him.

Can’t you just see Jesus at the ruler’s house calming him, saying it is okay, showing the hecklers the door? Even when we have barely enough strength to call on Him, He will come and do what is necessary to prepare us for His change in our lives. If you need a miracle, if you need revival, ask Jesus to help you clear away the obstacles that are preventing you from receiving it. It may take time, but His timing is perfect.

~Author Julie Cosgrove

This is from an online women's devotional. What perfect timing, I need to clear out the ruckus as I wait and wait...

41 Months and Counting...

2010-02-11T10:55:00.002-05:00

...the 5th (our LID date) has come and gone. Not much to say about it...

Referrals have arrived...

2010-02-02T11:14:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to those of you who are seeing your children's faces for the first time. What a great way to celebrate Valentines Day!

Wishing you all speedy TA's and amazing "gotcha" days!

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before

April 5, 2006.

Happy New Years...

2009-12-31T16:55:00.003-05:00

In the New Year,

may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, but never in want.

~ Traditional Irish Toast

Wishing you all a Happy New Year and all the best in 2010!

Happy New Year to Those Who ...

2009-12-28T15:51:00.003-05:00

... have finally received their referrals. What a great way to start the New Year!

The CCAA has updated their website to say that they have placed children for families with log-in dates before April 3, 2006.

Merry Christmas...

2009-12-25T00:58:00.002-05:00

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

~Luke 2:10-11

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and all the blessings of the season!

Xmas Origins...

2009-12-17T16:51:00.002-05:00

You learn someting new every day...

"Xmas is an abbreviation for Christmas. It is derived from the word ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ, transliterated as Christos, which is Greek for Christ. Greek is the language in which the whole New Testament was written.

Originally, Xmas was an abbreviation where the X represents the Greek letter chi, which is the first letter of Christ's name. However, because of the modern interpretations of the letter X, many people are unaware of this and assume that this abbreviation is meant to drop Christ from Christmas."

Ok, I will admit I was one of those people. I didn't like the use of Xmas instead of Christmas. Now I know it's not as bad as I thought. Still, I like the look and sound of Christmas better ;op

Please Remember ...

2009-12-10T17:48:00.002-05:00

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,

I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.

My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,

My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,

Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,

Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,

Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.

In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,

So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,

But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear..

Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,

Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,

And I crept to the door just to see who was near.

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,

A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,

Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.

Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,

Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,

"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!

Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,

You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!

"For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,

Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..

To the window that danced with a warm fire's light

Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,

I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,

That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,

I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,

"Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers.

"My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',

And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,

But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile..

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,

The red, white, and blue... an American flag.

I can live through the cold and the being alone,

Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,

I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weight of killing another,

Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..

Who stand at the front against any and all,

To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,

Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."

"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,

"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?

It seems all too little for all that you've done,

For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,

"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.

To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,

To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,

To know you remember we fought and we bled.

Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,

That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.

I received this poem today and it touched my heart. At the bottom of the e-mail was also this request -

PLEASE, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S service men and women for our being able to celebrate these festivities.. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.

LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN

30th Naval Construction Regiment

OIC, Logistics Cell One
Al Taqqadum, Iraq

I don't know where this request originated from but I believe that it should be honored. Please remember to keep our soldiers in your thoughts and prayers this Christmas season and every day. Without them we would be living in a very different world. Thank you and God Bless!

Count UP to 39 Months...

2009-12-07T14:40:00.002-05:00

We are 158 referral days away from being matched. With as little as 2 days being matched in some months our estimated wait time could extend to early 2013. That's really just too depressing to think about...

Early Christmas Presents for Some...

2009-12-03T09:59:00.002-05:00

Congratulations and Merry Christmas to those of you who are receiving referrals in this batch. You have finally almost reached the end of your journey, the end is in sight. Wishing all of you speedy travels and wondereful "gotcha" days.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before March 31, 2006.

Happy Thanksgiving...

2009-11-25T20:28:00.002-05:00

Wishing all of you a Thanksgiving filled with

the comfort and love of family and friends,

food enough to eat, and time to nap afterward ;o)

Thanksgiving...

2009-11-25T20:18:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for ~

My husband, who loves me.

My family, who is always there for me.

My friends, who have shared their lives, love, laughter, and tears with me.

My health, that has been good so far.

My job, that allows me to pay my bills.

Our Soldiers, who sacrifice so that others don't have to.

My God, who has carried me and given me hope.

Veterans Day...

2009-11-11T09:45:00.001-05:00

Thanks to all of our service men and women, hope you get to enjoy this day!

2009-11-10T17:13:00.003-05:00

Take A Moment To Thank A Veteran

When you see someone in a uniform

Someone who serves us all,

Doing military duty,

Answering their country’s call,
Take a moment to thank them

For protecting what you hold dear;

Tell them you are proud of them;

Make it very clear.
Just tap them on the shoulder,

Give a smile, and say,

"Thanks for what you’re doing;

To keep us safe in the USA!"

By Joanna Fuchs

There are not words enough to thank all of you who have served or are serving this country. Your sacrifice, bravery, and willingness to defend amaze me every day. Your are the backbone of this country and we owe our freedom to you. Each of you and your families are in our thoughts and prayers today and every day.

Thanks for all you do! Happy Veterans Day!

Halloween Pics...

2009-11-09T15:09:00.005-05:00

The little man himself... He was a martial arts guy this year..

Joshua and his favorite Aunt (it doesn't matter that I'm his only Aunt, lol)...

Joshua with Mom and Dad

a little late but better than never, lol... Love trick-or-treating with my nephew, I mean who could resist that semi-toothless grin right? He has finally lost his first tooth and has three more loose! I must hunt for a picture of his Dad without his front teeth to see how much they look alike, lol.

38 Months...

2009-11-04T15:48:00.007-05:00

We have been caught in a traffic jam (kind of like in the picture) for 38 months.. Our particular traffic jam has been caused by a multitude of known and unknown things. These things have been enumerated here and in other places so many times before that it’s not necessary to do so again now.

So, where does this traffic jam leave us? I guess it depends on the day or maybe in some cases the hour I’m asked, “hey what’s going on with your adoption?” Today, at this minute, I have no desire to guess why we are still waiting, when the wait may end or even the reasons behind the wait. Today my answer is simply we are still waiting.

National Adoption Awareness Month...

2009-11-02T14:05:00.003-05:00

Before you were conceived I wanted you,
Before you were born I loved you,
Before you were here an hour
I would die for you,
This is the miracle of life.
~ Maureen Hawkins

I hope you get to take the time to celebrate the families who will be or have been brought together out of love.

Maybe someone you know can share how adoption has touched their lives and/or made their family complete.

Have a Happy Halloween...

2009-10-29T16:20:00.002-04:00

Wishing you all a fun filled, trick-or-treating kind of

Happy Halloween weekend!

My Favorite Halloween Candy Says...

2009-10-23T13:23:00.001-04:00

You Are a Beloved Friend

You are a very popular person. People can always find something about you to like.

You are friendly and approachable. It's easy to feel comfortable around you.

You are lively, playful, and sweet. But you are also substantial too.

No matter what the situation is, you are good company... and the ideal best friend.

What Does Your Favorite Candy Say About You?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

Referrals have arrived...

2009-10-15T13:05:00.003-04:00

The CCAA has posted referrals have gone out to families who were

logged-in March 28, 2006. Congratulations to all those families

who are finally receiving their long awaited referral.

Wishing you all safer and speedy travels!

Lightning Home Opener....

2009-10-08T14:36:00.002-04:00

is tonight. I'm so excited that the hockey season has started. Go BOLTS!!!

As of yesterday, it's been...

2009-10-06T16:47:00.002-04:00

long, long months...

Fun, Fun!

Definitely Feeling This Way...

2009-10-04T23:37:00.000-04:00

Monday :o(

2009-09-21T15:35:00.001-04:00

too bad I couldn't just hide!

3 Long Years...

2009-09-09T16:59:00.002-04:00

As of 9/5/09 we have been waiting for our child for 3 long years. It’s hard to believe, it was never even imagined that we would hit that mark. Needless to say it’s a long way from the estimated 12-16 month timeline we were given when we started the adoption process. (Just for the record we don’t blame our agency.)

Honestly, it’s hard to even work our heads around it. This has been the longest and hardest things we have had to deal with, EVER! This makes IVF look like a walk in the park. I guess the biggest issue with the whole thing is that there are no concrete answers. No answers about why the wait increased, how long it could really wind up being, or what the reasons for the increased timeline are. Sure, there is speculation, rumor, and vague statements about it but nothing that clearly says the wait was caused by A, B, and C.

What started out as an exciting and hopeful journey has turned into a really bad road trip. You know the one… the car breaks down, then you get lost, and the next thing you know you've lost your hotel reservation. Then it’s only about the last day of the trip that you begin to get over the bad beginning and have fun. Of course during all these mishaps you run the emotional gauntlet ranging from excitement to flat out depression at the thought that it could possibly get worse before it’s over.

For those of you who are lost in the quagmire of the wait and those of you have already endured it, I’m sure you can relate. It’s painful. It’s frustrating. It just plain old makes you angry. As the wait goes on and on your expenses go up and up adding yet another level of frustration to the whole thing. Not to mention there doesn't seem to be an end to it anytime in the near future.

Despite all that, we will continue to wait. What choice do we have? Our child is in China.

For those of you who have been along for the ride – thanks for your support, your shoulders, and your words of comfort. Without you enduring this would have been impossible.

Referrals are in...

2009-08-24T10:07:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to all of the families who recived their referrals in this batch. I can only imagine the joy you each felt as you saw your little ones faces for the first time.

Wishing you all speedy travels and unforgettable "gotcha" days!

Update: The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before March 24, 2006.

A little late but...

2009-08-20T15:11:00.007-04:00

My friends Drew and Nicole welcomed their son Mason William into their family on Thursday July 30th. We wish you all the best as you embark on this new chapter in your lives. He is adorable and I can't wait to meet him in person.

Congratulations!!

Happy Birthday Joan...

2009-08-19T15:42:00.003-04:00

today is my mother-in-law Joan's birthday.

Hope all your birthday wishes come true.

Happy Birthday!