FSA National Conference...It is finally HERE!

Well July 31st finally arrived!
YEAH!!!
It has been a busy day here at the FSA National Conference!
This is GREAT news!!!!
The classes I have attended have been fabulous. I just got done listening to Tim and Heidi Naylor (our newest FSA National Board members) share their experiences in foster care and share their incredible adoption stories. Just another sweet testimony of how the Lord loves all His children!
I am so thankful to be part of FSA...it is an amazing experience to sit among hundreds of other people who truly "get" my life!
I have made some great and lasting friendship!!!

I am so blessed!

Update

Do you remember this post?
Well we weren't chosen...the cute little sib group is no longer online.
I am happy for them...I hope they have a wonderful life.
Sad for me...but glad to not be wondering anymore.
Just thought I would share.

Digital Scrapbooking

For Mother's Day Brad bought me photoshop elements 7 and a week or so later he surprised me with a new computer.
With a little messing around on my own and then some guided tools from my friend Holly I finally get the basics of how things work. So I had fun making a new blog header and then tonight I finished this.
I am a beginner but I am having alot of fun with it!
I hope to get better as I learn more!
I just wanted to share my new hobby.
Do any of you create scrapbooks digitally?

Matching Mondays

Arkansas

Eliyah & Micah ages 6 & 2.
No other information listed...please contact the heart gallery if you are interested.

Arkansas

LaDasia, Travain, Jasmine ages 6, 5 & 3.
There is no other information listed...please contact heart gallery if you are interested.

Utah
Jerald is 12 years old.
Jerald is a loving boy with a happy nature. He has great empathy for others and is frequently looking out for the "underdog" of the group.

Nevada

Zephaniah is 23 months old.
He is a happy little guy who enjoys smiling and loves the movie cars.

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I encourage you to look at these children...but also other children on these sites. There are so many children who are waiting. I wish I could feature all of them!

I am not trying to be mean....

but I don't trust homely hairdressers!
I went to my favorite place for haircuts yesterday. I was so excited to finally feel human again..actually to feel like "ME" again. I had turned into this out of control freak that tried to look normal. Hair too short for a long hairdo or a clip.. but too long for my favorite A-line bob with layers style.
So I went into my favorite shop excited and glad to be doing this before conference.
And then I met her.....a not so smiley, very homely looking hairdresser (stylist...whatever they are called).
I held my breath hoping she wasn't going to be MY hairdresser today.
This is nothing against being homely...I am homely most of the time that I am home but I have a theory about homely people doing hair......they just shouldn't be.
I love to get the girl who is wearing the outrageous hairdo...the really trendy hairdo that I could never get away with. There is something about that girl...she seems to know how hair works and since she is always changing hers I think she learns alot about hair. So I like getting the girl with the funkiest hair. But yesterday I didn't have such luck. I got the homely girl who didn't appear to care about her hair and didn't seem happy to be cutting other peoples hair. I tried to be brave....I thought...."well you can't judge a book by it's cover so maybe I can't judge a stylist by hers".
But honestly I think you can.
To top it off she wasn't exactly loquacious...I had to keep asking questions.
I hate it when stylists don't talk....bugs me!
So I asked her the big question in my mind "so how long have you been doing hair?" Her reply had me even more worried...."I did it for a year then I went on to other things."
Apparently she has just come back to the world or hair..... YIKES!!!!
Part of the way through the hair cut she stops and says "I gotta go get a little tip". I couldn't decide if this was bad or good. Glad she is going to get help if she doesn't know what the heck she is doing...but then worried because she doesn't know what she is doing.
While my hair was wet I couldn't really tell if it was cut right. She blew it dry a little....without product which is a huge NO NO for curly hair! I left the salon looking like a super frizz!!!! I had to stop off at the gas station on the way home so I used a bottle of water in my car and wet my hair down again....at least wet it looked a little better.
When I got home I saw that it was uneven and NOT cut the way I asked.
I went into the salon today excited to get a trim back into my favorite A-Line Bob with layers.
I came out looking like alien from outer space.
I was able to fix some places.....so it doesn't look terrible. There are some parts that were cut very nicely...but she clearly needs some updated training.
I truly am not being mean...this is all in jest but I really do like to have the girl who has the crazy cute hair!
And I will be asking for someone different next time so I can go back to my favorite style.
*sigh*

Avoiding the Hard Places....

Roses my friends from ldsadoptiveparents yahoogroup sent me after our 2nd failed placement.

I have been stressing over the presentation Brad and I are giving at the FSA conference.
I wrote the outline months ago....so all I needed to do was get the power point slide ready and my own notes in line.
It has been on my mind everyday for a while. But I seem to find other things to busy myself with so I can keep putting it off. I have been trying to figure out why this year's presentation feels more stressful than the past 4 years. I thought maybe it was because it was a completely different topic.
That sounded good right?

I have been sitting here at my computer to finish it all up and make it look good (hopefully). Then understanding came upon me.
I have been avoiding this presentation because it hurts!
This is the first time we will ever talk about our adoption losses publicly and in person.
As I have been thinking about our own experiences I remembered the 2nd failed placement when my girls were just as excited as we were about a new baby sister we were going to name Elizabeth. They didn't understand why this baby didn't come and they felt angry. Everyone was affected.
As I have gone through the memory files in my mind I remember how much these experiences hurt.
It is no wonder that I was avoiding this process.
I finally get it.
I didn't realize these memories would affect me this way even now.
Maybe it is a good thing to talk about them.
I hope this 'sharing' helps others...and maybe it will be helping me too.

Overshare....

I can relate to this picture today.
I am once again on my lovely hormones so that I can function "normally"...whatever that is.
So I feel like this ugly, grouchy, emotional mess.
Everything that goes wrong seems SO BIG!
And all I want to do is cry or scream....or both.
There is so much going on right now with the FSA conference coming up...loose ends that needs to be checked on and then there is our presentation that isn't all the way ready.
this along with a bunch of other stuff that has been happening
I feel like quitting!
but I won't
I need a Diet Coke with a lime!
Someone please remind me that in about a week I will feel better!!

Matching Mondays

Texas
Fadia, David & Prince ages 15, 9 & 1.
Fadia is a very talkative and energetic youth who is fun to be around. David is a sweet, affectionate child who can be shy at first. Prince is an easy-going baby who enjoys affection.
Missouri
Ar'Mondre age 11.
Ar'Mondre loves to cook and show off his spelling skills. He wants to be a police officer when he grows up.
You can also click on this link for more info.

New Mexico
Destiny, Brenda & Zipporah ages 6, 12 & 7.
These sisters loves to sing and dance and will bring their show right to your hearts.

Utah
Jade age 15.
Jade is empathetic and wants to be an attorney someday.
She is currently into the "Twilight" Series.
Gotta love that right!!!
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I learned some new facts.
1. Some states don't place their waiting kids with families in other states...very often. A couple of these states are Arizona and New Mexico.
2. Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma and California do sent children out of state and are good to work with. (California does take a little longer to get services in place and adoption finalized.)
3. Sometimes when you are reading about a child it says that it is an at risk placement or that the parental rights haven't been terminated yet. This doesn't necessarily mean that they won't place the child with an out of state family....it all depends upon the caseworker, judge and situation.
Thanks to Kathy Searle for this great information!!!!!

Bobby-isms and other funnies.

Have you ever watch the cartoon "Bobby's World"?
If you haven't...well you need to.
Brad and I discovered Bobby in our early years of marriage. We would watch and laugh at how Bobby would take things so literally.
For example he goes to work with his Dad one day and his Dad mentions that they are in a "traffic jam". Bobby instantly pictures the cars on the road getting stuck in "jam" ....the kind you spread on bread.
This seems to be the case with any child around bobby's age as we have come to realize with our 6 year old.
Tonight as we were discussing the fact that Camden doesn't ask for things he just demands them. For example..if he wants a sandwich he will say "give me a honey sandwich" and he keeps saying it until he gets his way. So in our conversation together Brad and I discussed how we are trying to get him to ask politely and say "please". Brad followed up by saying ..."ya we need to nip that in the bud!" I agreed but then Haley piped up and thought it was funny we said "butt". We explained that we said "bud" not "butt" and then she was like "what? What is a bud?" After a brief explanation Haley says laughing..."Camden's not a flower."

A few weeks ago Haley gave us another "Bobbyism" as we were discussing who the leaders are in our family. (this conversation took place in the van) We explained to the kids that Daddy and Mommy are equally "in charge" and that we also look to Heavenly Father to help us in our decisions so He is part of our family too. Haley instantly says...
"but we don't have a seat for him in the van!"

We love our little Bobbyism girl!

Tonight we were in target looking at bedding for Brenley's new bed. We were in the girl kid aisle of target bedding and the kids were pointing out what they liked. Camden decided to join in and said he wanted the Hanna Montana bedding. Camden said "I like Hanna Montana and she looks cute". Haley pipes up and says "ya you want to kiss her". Camden replies...."ya I want to kiss her because she likes kisses".

Don't you just LOVE kids....what did I ever do for entertainment before them?

I saw this today...

and loved it!!!!
It has some really fun humor.
Can't wait for Deathly Hallows!

The day we became a family.

9 years ago today our greatest wish, most sincere desire came true.
Brenley was placed in our arms and we became a family!
It is one of the best days of our lives only equal to Haley's and Camden's placement days and our wedding day.
I remember the feeling in my heart the moment Brenley was handed to me and I saw her face for the first time.....pure joy!!!!! I knew all that we had been through was what made this moment so sacred and so special! It seemed as though all the pain of the past melted away as love filled my whole being!

My life, Brad's life and our entire family has been changed forever because a special girl followed her heart and had the courage to do what she felt was best for her baby.
To this special girl we say.....Thank you!
We continue to love you "every year, every month...every day"!

Happy Birthday Brenley

Nine years ago today my baby girl was born.
I can't believe it has been nine years....wasn't she just a baby yesterday?
Brenley is growing up too fast!
Slow down or something would you???? :)
Tomorrow we are taking Brenley to her favorite resturant to eat and to see Harry Potter the Half-Blood Prince. She has spent tonight making a list of who the Half-Blood Prince could be.
She is WAY off...and will be surprised!
I can't wait until she reads the series for herself!

We gave Brenley her Birthday presented tonight....she got a Nintendo DS.
She has been asking for one for about 2 years.
I guess this is just another sign that she is maturing.
We are willing to trust her with big money items.

I am so happy with the girl she has become!!!
Happy Birthday Brenley!!!!

Trials and Blessings

Remember this post?
Well the fun continues as we learned yesterday that the guy who hit Brad and Brenley most likely does NOT have insurance.
Why do people drive without insurance and why are they the ones who seem to get be causing wrecks?
I would like to use a few expletives here but I will refrain.

So it was a stressful day wondering how we were going to pay for a new vehicle. Our truck was completely paid for....just makes me nuts honestly!

Then we get a call....an unexpected series of events occurs and we are being lent a different truck while we figure this mess out. We are so grateful for the generosity of others and for the Lord's hand once again manifest in our lives.

While there is much to figure out...one of the biggest problems weighing on us at this moment has been lifted for time.
We are so thankful!!!!

Only YOU!

Nine years ago today I met one of the most amazing people I have ever known.
Here name is Stacey.
She did something only she could do....she gave birth to my daughter Brenley.
Then a few hours later she gave a gift that only she could give.
She made us a family.
I have thought alot about her today and I am still amazed she chose us.
Thank you for blessing our lives like only YOU could!
We love you Stac!

Matching Mondays

South Carolina
Chris is an infant.
Chris is a loving, happy and peaceful child who loves to be cuddled.

Utah
Felicia age 16.
Wonderful swimmer, fabulous dancer she could be called a natural athlete.

Maryland
Matthew age 9.
Matthew is very smart and achieved all A's.

Kansas
Alyssa age 8.
Likes sports of all kinds.

Florida
Dalvin age 9.
"I Like to Read"

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Inquire, share their information and be proactive!

Creating Awareness for this site....

itsaboutlove.org
Have you been to this site yet?
It took a few years but it got a great looking face lift!
I has also gotten some attention very recently....YEAH!!!!!

Go here to read the article.
Go here to see the website.

We got to help with the web content....
Picture of our kiddo's is found here.
Story on how we were ready to adopt is found here.
Q&A section: found here.
There might be other sections we are in but these are the ones I am aware of.

My favorite part of the site is found here.
I love Birth Mothers!

I am grateful we got to help with this site...it was a special opportunity for a cause that has blessed our lives over and over again.
And as we say in the Small Adventures Home
Adoption means...
More Loved!
go here to see why

The Lord's Hand.

Once again I have witnessed the Lord's hand in my life and the lives of my family.
Tonight we had our FSA National Board meetings. Brad just meets me at LDS FS since he works fairly close by. So when the meeting were over Brenley went with him in his truck to travel home. Haley and Camden drove with me in the Van and we were about 10 minutes behind Brad. As I was getting off the exit from the freeway I look over to my left and see a truck that looks alot like Brad's...and it is sitting in the middle of an intersection with cop cars everywhere. I realized after a few second that Brad and Brenley had just gotten into a wreck. Within 2 seconds of that understanding my phone rings....Brad is calling. My immediate question is "Are you guys alright??". He tells me they are but his truck is destroyed and he, of course, will need a ride home. So I went and parked in a Wendy's parking lot and got out and watch as the paramedics arrive and check on Brad and my daughter. I knew Brad said they were ok but I wanted to see Brenley get out and walk.....I could see Brad but I couldn't see her. After what seemed like forever one of the paramedics escorted Brenley over to me. She was pretty shaken. I gave her a big hug and ask how she is. She doesn't have a scratch but will probably be sore in days to come. Then I find out how this is a truly miraculous outcome as the paramedic tells me that Brad and Brenley not only got hit by someone but it caused them to roll completely. All windows except for one was shattered and the truck looked horrible but my husband and child walked away without more than a few bumps and scratches and one cut. Brad is showing bruising already tonight and they will be sore and may need to see the doctor tomorrow....but I think of how bad it could have been. I know the Lord protected my family today!!! I am so very grateful to Him for the miracles he worked in our lives today!!!!
So Grateful!!!!!

I am waiting....

I was introduced to a new (well new to me) site called FosterClub.
They sell these shirts.
The button and ribbon hide the word "I".
"I am waiting....for a family that loves me"
Another waiting child's shirt read..."I am waiting...to finally be a big sister".
I got a big lump in my throat and tears in my eyes as I realized in a deeper way these children feel like I use to feel when we were trying to adopt an infant.
They want a family.
And yet they cannot go to another agency or save a little more money to get more advertising for themselves. They have to rely upon hearts being softened and minds shifting to a different place...past babies.....past "picture perfect". These children who are waiting, have to wait for parents who have hearts that have grown to understand that love comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and conditions. Parents who can embrace their past and help them see their future.
Are you one of these kinds of parents?
Am I?
Seeing this picture left alot for me to ponder and it touched me deeply.

Ramblings

Yesterday evening I got to send Mick and Little Mouse off with their Dad. I am so happy that their experience in foster care was so short...5 days short.
It was fun to have them here.
So we are open to situations once again.....hoping that the next call is THE one! :) I am always hoping that...but ok if it isn't.

This morning our fabulous Licensing Lady (as I call her) came for our annual visit. All went well and after my last 3 class credits are in (which will happen today) we are all set for another year of licensing for foster care. Today's visit did bring some new news....apparently she will be making drop in visits unannounced at any time throughout the year. So I made a mental note to make sure I stick to my rule of having things straightened before going to bed. It has been a great tool....but easy to slack on when I have no energy left at the end of the day.

I just finished the draft of "Midnight Sun" that Stephenie Meyer has on her website.
It was good while it lasted and made me want more.
It almost doesn't seem fair that she is willing to let us sample but doesn't give us the full meal.
You know what I mean!!!
I will have to just settle on being excited about "New Moon" movie release in November.

And since I am talking movies.....1 week from today I will be sitting in the theater watching "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" with Brad, Brenley and Haley. Friday we will start the countdown by watching the Harry Potter movies in order....one each day. I know I am silly....but I am a book and a movie lover....so how can I not get excited when the best of both words meet???

I also want to send my love and positive vibes to my friend mrs. r. If you haven't been following her story go here to catch up....then read her latest post.
Send her some happy thoughts in her comments section today.

Matching Mondays

California
Elijah & Christopher ages 4 & 2
Elijah loves Blues Clues and Christopher likes to giggle!

Connecticut
Andrew is an Infant
This sweet baby boy needs a family who will be committed to him.

Rhode Island
Price age 12 (turns 13 this month sometime)
Price loves the Celtics and enjoys saving his money for things he wants.
This site doesn't allow me to directly link you to Price...Please click on the link and search for him.

Utah
Josiah age 9
Friendly Josiah is greatly anticipating being adopted and having a stable, loving family of his own.
(Side Note: If you are interested in adopting children with Pacific Island ethnicity... Utah has added some new kids to their site.)

California
Tatyana & Fauthmia age 10
These adorable twin girls have a wonderful personality and a great sense of humor.

Missouri
Ali age 16
This quiet and reserved young woman loves volleyball, swimming, basketball, watching movies and music videos, listening to music, and especially shopping.

New Mexico
Heaven & Malaci ages 6 & 7
Heaven loves to play princess and Malaci's favorite superhero is Spiderman.
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I'm going to be meeting with Kathy Searle (Utah Adoption Exchange Director of Programs) next week to ask her questions. If you have specific questions please leave them in the comments section or feel free to email me directly.

As some of you may know....my hubby and I serve as Co-Vice chairs for Families Supporting Adoption National Board. We meet as an Executive Board this week and I am going to see what we can do to get some education out there among FSA chapters throughout the nation. So I am wondering.... If you are an FSA member would you attend a class about how to adopt waiting children if it was offered somewhere fairly close to you? Please leave me a comment and let me know. I am trying to get a feel for what people are willing to do to learn how to adopt waiting children.

We have still NEVER heard anything from the situations we have inquired about. The last one we inquired about I was really hoping to hear something but no word yet. I will keep you posted. Meanwhile we have two cute boys hanging out with us for a bit while parents and dcfs figure things out. :) They are so fun and honestly...I am so glad we said yes. These little "dooods" (as Mick...the 4 year old says) are very well behaved and just truly great children!

And lastly....THANK YOU for coming here every Monday and for adding them MM button to your blog. You are wonderful friends!!!
:) Happy Week!

A special suprise!

This morning I heard my phone alert me to a text message. I took a peek and was surprised to see this glorious picture......

Then later in the day I received another wonderful picture.....

I miss this beautiful, wonderful little girl!!!!
I Love You Ashanti!!!!

Special thanks to my Angel Friend....Dishawn
(Ashanti's special Aunt).
These pictures made my day!!!!!!
Sending my Love!!!

New Adventures with new cuties!

We got a call last night around 8:30pm ...a message about 2 little boys needing a home for a little while. So this morning I picked up two really cute little boys who we will call Mick & Little Mouse. They are 4 & 1. They are also full of energy and rather well behaved! We spent the morning re-arranging bedrooms and moving beds. We have been so blessed to have extra items in the basement. From matresses, clothes and toys...I think the Lord has helped us prepare to foster.

I don't think these little guys will be here long but we will enjoying having them while they are here. Camden is extra happy to have a boy to play with. Mick calls Camden "my doood!"
Love it!

Just another reason to love where I live!

My street after a big rain storm.
Love it!!

Dance Recital Summer 2009

Haley takes Ballet classes. She is a budding ballerina. I think she was born to dance. Her class danced to "Under the Sea" and they were all dressed as mermaids. Very cute!

Brenley takes Jazz classes. She loves to dance to upbeat music. Her class did a cute number to "Hard Knock Life" from the "Annie" movie. Brenley played the part of Molly.

I love that my girls enjoy dancing. It was my most favorite thing to do growing up.