About to be More!

More foster mom gifts!!!

2012-02-03T20:02:00.000-06:00

Ok..so clearly Addison had the BEST foster mom in all Korea, because she sends her little gifts and things all the time..even though we've had her home for over a year and a half!! She can clearly read minds too because the gifts she sent Addison LOVES!! As you can see, she sent Addison a bunch of stickers, which Addison LOVED, and used generously!

She sent her this cute little bracelet..and Addison loves jewelry.

Oh! Here is Addison's sticker creation! So nice ...and abstract.

She also sent her this cute purse with her FAVORITE cartoon character; Minnie Mouse, whom she calls "tootles." As you can see by her expression...she loved it!!!

More love!!!

She also sent her hair barretts. (We alwasy need those!)

...and a note for us (in Korean..no translation!?!?!)

If you speak/read Korean...I'd love a translation!!! :)

Here are some more hair things she sent us. Sparkly little hearts!

Oh!! ...And this is Addison telling me shes done with all the photos.

New Photo!!

2012-01-31T18:03:00.000-06:00

This photo was taken at Avery's last check up which was January 19th. She was 16 months old. She's getting so, so big! She is holding the gifts we sent her.

Adoption update

2012-01-18T16:57:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we were told that Korea has decided to issue NO Emigration Permits until February, despite the fact that we were told paperwork would resume being processed in January. No reason was given. (Keep in mind, no child can leave the country without this piece of paperwork which they stopped issuing last June.) We were also told that they believe Korea will only accept one batch of Emigration Permits to be submitted each month, whereas last year there were months were two, three, sometimes even four batches were submitted within a month. What does this mean? It means that adoptions will be intentionally processed very slowly; much slower than ever before.

What does this mean for us personally? Who knows? We are two months behind those who are first in line to receive an Emigration Permit. Also keep in mind that once our Emigration Permit is submitted, it will still take 4-8 weeks to be approved and then we still have other paperwork that will need to be done before travel. This means even AFTER we get submitted and approved we'll still have things to wait on. All I know is that traveling this spring basically a pipe dream. I think summer is now the realistic season, but even then I hold to that very loosely because when we were first matched we were told fall, then we were told spring, and now were being told summer…so basically every time were get close, the date is changed – and it typically extends our wait by 3-4 months.

I will refrain from an emotional/angry rant about this situation as it will not do anyone any good and will not bring God glory. I am however BEYOND frustrated, and honestly wonder if we will ever get our little girl. Keep in mind, her birthmother or foster family can adopt her as long as she is in the country, so this line of thought is not unrealistic. I mean, how can her foster family bear to give her to us after she has been with them for almost two years?!? (…and how can I be the one to take her?)

So here's where I'm at: I'm WAY too far down this path to cling to unrealistic optimism that is based on absolutely nothing but unfounded hopes. I don't want to be pessimistic and negative either. I guess right now, I'm just staring into the face of the facts as I've been given them and the reality of what has already happened. I've long since stopped sticking my head in the sand and choosing ignore all the bad news that has been steadily coming my way since last June. I'd be foolish to pretend its all peachy when it is clearly not. I will say this; my prayers have changed from, "please bring Avery home quickly," to, "do whatever is best for her," and that's a very, very hard prayer to pray.

Pretty in Pink

2012-01-15T19:44:00.000-06:00

I came out of my room this afternoon to see this on my couch.

I said, "Addison, what are you doing?!"

She replied, "Readin' my Bible Momma."

Then she smiled really big!!!

She was alternating between her slippers & high heals...something I do daily!

Here's the shoes she loves so much. Notice the pinky toe sticking out??!

This is her, "Really-mom?!" face. I love it.

2012...and still no movement

2012-01-06T19:06:00.000-06:00

So 2012 is here. This was when Korea was supposed to start re-issuing Emigration Permits. They would reset the quote and begin anew and we were so excited! In past years there has been movement within the the first week with either approvals (in earlier years) or submissions in later years. So all week, I've been waiting to see who gets submitted for their Emigration Permit so we can begin to calculated (roughly) when we might get ours and travel. Each day I checked email to see what was going on...and nothing. Nothing Tuesday, nothing Wednesday, nothing Thursday, and then Friday...nothing. Last year there were batches of Emigration Permits submitted every week in January, but that clearly isn't going to happen this year. So now, all I can do is sit and wait. Any timeframe I had has been blown out of the water, and at this point no one knows whats going on. To say I'm frustrated is not adequate. I really have nothing to say. I'm kind of numb, but I feel a stream of anger welling up inside of me, and the urge to rant maniacally is pecking away at my mind and tempting my tongue to unleash, so please pray that I can still be a reflection so Christ even when the small hope I had was simply wiped clean away and I have been left with nothing expect a photo of my sweet baby girl.

Christmas Lights

2012-01-02T11:49:00.000-06:00

We went to a local Garden where they had put up over 700,000 Christmas lights! It was beautiful!

I went with Valerie & her daughters!

Teh blue lights behind us were bundled to resemble grapes. They were very cool!

Here is Bridget..posing!

Here is Gracen!

Here I am with Addison!

Addie was curious as to what was in the paper bags! We caught her just as she peeked into it! So cute!

This photo doesn't do the garden lights justice! They were very pretty!

These two ladies were in front of us the enitre time we were at the garden...and they walked SO SO slow! Bridget expresses our feelings perfectly

Christmas at Mom's

2011-12-31T08:38:00.000-06:00

Christmas afternoon we went to my mom's house to celebrate Christmas. Here is my brother and many of the grandchildren sitting on the couch.

Addison reclining with Dad.

Here is my Cecelia

Addison posing

Mom & Dad working in the kitchen!

Cecelia & her mom Larissa

My mom opening gifts from us

Drew got his finger stuck while trying to open a gift!!!

Grandkids crawling all over mom

Corinne & Addison cuddled up in a chair! So cute!

Christmas

2011-12-30T14:20:00.000-06:00

A photo of our family before going to Christmas Eve Service

Little Miss before church

All the kiddos

The boys opening gifts

Look!!! Lips gloss!!!

Here she is cooking us some breakfast!!

Addison got a new kitchen & shopping cart! She loved them!

Jack opening gifts

Nick was relaxing in his new sweats

Drew got his long-awaited golden headphones!!

Ahh!!! gold headphones.

Drew & Nick got new shoes

Jack chillin with his new necklace & sweatshirt

Addison playing with her kitchen

Dad helping Addison open gifts

Highly Favored

2011-12-25T06:39:00.002-06:00

Luke 1:28: "And having come in, the angel said to her, 'Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!'"

Most of us have heard this passage taught or read. It the very familiar passage where the angel tells Mary she will carry the Jesus who will be conceived by the Holy Spirit. It is remarkable to think that this young girl had an angel appear to her and tell her she was "highly favored" by God. How would that make you feel? How you react if you were told you were highly favored by God? Wouldn't that be an incredible thing? Wouldn't that change your perspective on life, yourself, your future? How would you react? What would you say in return? Would you sign for joy, fall down in worship, or just allow the precious words to resonate in your mind? Well, God has said that to you - to anyone who is His child – anyone whose life is hidden in Christ through faith in His completed work on the cross. He said it in Ephesians 1:6: "to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." You might be thinking, why that doesn't say the same thing, but it does! You see the Greek verb that means "highly favored "is "charitoo." This verb is only used on other place and that is in Ephesians 1:6. Here the verb "charitoo" is translated "has made us accepted." Although our English translations don't same the same phrasing, it is the exact same verb in the Greek. It is the exact same tense, same usage, and same meaning in both Luke 1:28 & Ephesians 1:6. Think about that. You, if you are a child of God, are highly favored, just like Mary - highly favored in the eyes of God. What an awesome thought. Merry Christmas.

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Cor. 9:15)

(Thoughts borrowed from Dr. Erwin Lutzer Moody church – Chicago)

Foster mom gifts!!

2011-12-14T16:39:00.000-06:00

Addison's sweet foster mom in Korea mailed her some early Christmas gifts!

Here are two Korean books for her!

Here is the letter she wrote us.

Addison was going through all the things in the package.

Here is the letter..need a translation though?!

She sent her these cute hair things.

You put them over little buns on either side of her head and the little braids hang down.

Here she is looking at her books in her room.

Thanks SO much!!! We love the gifts!

Basketball

2011-12-11T16:56:00.001-06:00

So, we have offically entered Drew's favorite season...basketball season! His team actually started playing in October. Here are a few shots of one of his games!

This is his favorite shot...the one of him running with the ball.

Here he is making a free throw.

Here he is with his entire team. His coach is great!

Here's Addison playing at the game.

Her she is coloring..she even found a friend to color with her!

Update on Avery!!!!

2011-12-01T09:25:00.000-06:00

I was thrilled to see an email entitled, “Medical Report and Photos” from our adoption agency! YAY! Avery is doing absolutely fabulous!!! She has completely caught up developmentally. She was assessed to be at a 13 month level, which is the first time we’ve seen her developmental level match her chronological age! This is definitely an answer to prayer!!! She has also gained tons of weight and now weighs 23 pounds! She is only 5 pounds lighter than Addison!!! This too is a miracle as she was very much underweight when we were matched!!! God is very good! I have prayed that her developmental issues would be healed and God has been very kind to hear my prayer! Praise him!

In addition to that, she is quite possibly, the cutest baby in Korea!! I mean look at these photos!! Could she be any sweeter?!?!? This was a great encourage especially as we approach 8 months waiting to travel! The wait is so long, but God is faithful and our baby is perfect!

Here she is with the hat we sent her. I don't think she likes things on her head

Here she is with the Christmas care package we sent her.

I don't know where she got the headband, but she doesn't seem to like it!

This is my favorite!!! She's SO big!!!

sweety!!

Halloween (Yeah..its a bit late)

2011-11-21T19:45:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I'm very late with the Halloween post...but here it is, I guess better late than never!

Look at Addison's finger..Grandma gave her a green pointy finger! She was quite fascinated!

Jack..too cool!!

My kids with my brother's kiddos! (AKA: cousins)

Just the pretty little girls

Angie with baby Owen...trying to convince him to wear his hat.

Success!!!!

All the cousins on Mark's side!

Valerie...day 3

2011-11-09T12:26:00.001-06:00

Valerie is on day #3 in the hospital. Here where things stand.

Praises:

· Her memory is intact; she remembers everything up to the time she blacked out.

· She can eat & drink

· She can sit up.

· She can talk.

· She has full function of her arms.

· She was able to get out of bed, use the restroom & even sit in a chair (Odd praise, but a really big deal!)

· The doctor is very, very pleased with her progress.
· She is concerned about her looks, hair, makeup, where her phone is…and is really ready to leave the hospital. Which shows her personality is still intact.

Prayer requests:

· That she will start eating

· The pain will lessen (she is in so much pain)

· That she will stop throwing up and be able to stomach the medications

· That her aneurysm would not leak blood again. (very dangerous and very real risk)

· That she wouldn’t have any more swelling on the brain.

· She won’t have a seizure or stroke (both huge possibilities still)

· That her blood pressure would stop sky-rocketing

· That she would know God personally as her tender Father each day, and grow to love him dearly despite the horrible circumstances

BIG prayer: She is at very high risk of stroke right now. She can't have any mental stimulation at all. She isn't even allowed to look at magazines or have visitors. Pray she gets through this!

Psalm 17:6a

I have called upon You, for You will answer me, O God; Incline Your ear to me,

Miracles

2011-11-07T19:39:00.004-06:00

Admittedly I know little about brain aneurysms. I tend to get overwhelmed when doctors told to me so I know very little, but here's what I do know: there different stages of aneurysms: Stage I, being the least severe and stage VI being most severe causing death. Valerie has a stage V aneurysm. It was leaking blood into her cranium, which caused her to pass out and lapse into a comma. The doctor said she's lucky to have made it to hospital alive. That's the first miracle.

The emergency room staff was able to stabilize her and she lived through the first twelve hours. Miracle #2.

After being stabilized, she underwent a procedure called an aneurysm coiling. This is procedure where tiny platinum coils are threaded through a microcatheter and pushed into the aneurysm. The coils are flexible enough to conform to the aneurysm shape thus stopping the bulge from filling with blood. The risks of this procedure are: Weakness or paralysis of an arm or a leg, difficulty with speech or understanding, vision impairment, confusion, memory loss and/or seizures. None of these things happened, even though she was very fragile and still in critical condition: Miracle #3.

Then, Monday afternoon, She woke up. Miracle #4.

After waking, she talked, knew people, could remember pretty much everything but recent events. Miracle #5.

Now, I know she is not out of the woods. I know Valerie is very fragile and still has SO many hurdles to overcome. She is still at risk for seizure, swelling, so so much…its kind of overwhelming. I've also heard the neurologist talk about mortality rates etc… so I know the risks are real. But I also know that God is in complete control. Valerie is His child and the odds don't matter, because He doesn't base His sovereign decisions on odds or data. I know God is good. I rest in His care. He created Valerie, He's written every page of her life story, and she is resting in the palm of his hand.

Please keep praying. She needs so much prayer. There is still so much to overcome, but God hears our prayers and the prayers of his people avail much.

Psalm 5:1-3
Listen to my words, LORD,
consider my lament.
² Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.

³ In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly.

Pray For Val

2011-11-06T18:36:00.002-06:00

My best friend is Valerie. I've known her since I was nine. We've been through pretty much everything together. I just went her for lunch last Monday…we talked for two hours. We went to prayer meeting together Tuesday, and were starting a Bible study (once our books came in), and were planning to go out of town next weekend. Early Sunday morning she had a brain aneurysm and was rushed to hospital unconscious. She is now in a coma in the nuero critical care unit. She is in very, very serious condition. She has two daughters; 15 & 8. She is only 37. I'm heartbroken and really don't have any words. Please pray for her. Pray for her daughters. Pray for her parents. Just pray.

Photo Shoot!

2011-10-26T06:26:00.001-05:00

Nick's Concert

2011-10-23T17:11:00.000-05:00

Nick is in a singing group at his high school called New Generations. It is the school's top chior made up of about 25 kids. Its a show chior so most of the numbers are chorographed. He was thrilled to make the group especially as a sophmore since it is primarily upper classmen. He had his first concert earlier this month and here are the photos! (I'm a proud momma!!!)

So handsome!!

A men's only song!

Here they were singing a rap / song number and dressed up like "gangsta's"

Intimidating!!

So proud of my boy!!!

Nickus Arelius (AKA: Nick)

2011-10-16T20:40:00.000-05:00

Nick is, of course, playing football...has been since 3rd grade. He still looks great all suited up! I love it! Here are some photos of one of his JV games.

He plays wide receiver & corner

Korean Street Food

2011-10-05T12:26:00.002-05:00

So, since I've got such a long wait to travel, I decided I'm going to take advantage of the extra time to better plan our trip. One thing I REALLY want to do is go try some Korean street food. Here is a youtube video taken in Myeong Dong or Nyamuk (I think!?!... If its not, let me know because I want to go to this same place and try this food!!!)

This blog also has some great-looking food suggestions for those in search of Korean street cuisine!
http://www.followmefoodie.com/2010/04/korean-street-food-in-korea-2/

Blindspots of Christian Parenting. (BEST article of the year!!!!)

2011-09-27T12:16:00.000-05:00

I read the following article on my pastor’s blog, Yearn. It was originally written by Reb Bradley and published in the Virginia Home Educator Magazine. I was very challenged by it. I appreciate Mr. Bradley's humility in admitting mistakes he's made as a dad. I see some of these tendencies in my own life, and I don’t even homeschool. In fact, I teach at a public school and my kids attend public school! Whether or not you homeschool, I'd encourage you to read this article prayerfully and ask the Holy Spirit to help you examine your motives in your parenting. I know I did and it was very powerful!

In my humble opinion it should be re-titled, “Exposing Major Blind Spots of Christian Parenting” as the content he deals with touches any Christian who is a parent, whether they homeschool, send their kids to Christian school, or a public school.

Exposing Major Blind Spots of Homeschoolers by Reb Bradley

In the last couple of years, I have heard from multitudes of troubled homeschool parents around the country, a good many of whom were leaders. These parents have graduated their first batch of kids, only to discover that their children didn't turn out the way they thought they would. Many of these children were model homeschoolers while growing up, but sometime after their 18th birthday they began to reveal that they didn't hold to their parents' values.

Some of these young people grew up and left home in defiance of their parents. Others got married against their parents' wishes, and still others got involved with drugs, alcohol, and immorality. I have even heard of several exemplary young men who no longer even believe in God. My own adult children have gone through struggles I never guessed they would face.

Most of these parents remain stunned by their children's choices, because they were fully confident their approach to parenting was going to prevent any such rebellion.

After several years of examining what went wrong in our own home and in the homes of so many conscientious parents, God has opened our eyes to a number of critical blind spots common to homeschoolers and other family-minded people.

1. Having Self-Centered Dreams

The reason that our dreams for our children are so vulnerable to crashing is because they are our dreams, imposed on our own children. As homeschool parents we make great sacrifices and invest a great deal to influence how our children turn out. The problem is that love for children can be lost in love for personal success as a parent. Our concern for ourselves ends up overshadowing our love for our children.

When my oldest son was 18 he developed habits of disrespectful communication and I had to ask him to leave my home for a season. Needless to say, my wife and I were devastated by the discipline we imposed. In the first month he was gone we wept each day for him. We were grieved that he was now unprotected from the junk from which we had worked so hard to shelter him, but more than that, I was heartbroken that my dreams for him and our family would no longer come true. I remember speaking the words to him - "Son, you've ruined my dreams." You see, I had a dream for my family and it involved adult children who lived at home humbly under parental authority, and who would one day leave home to marry, after following my carefully orchestrated courtship process. But now, my son had gone and "messed up" my perfect dream. Nothing is wrong with dreaming of good things for your children, but the truth was, my dream for my son was mostly about me.

In hindsight, what was particularly grievous was that I was more worried about the failure of my dream of "success" than the fact that my son and I had a broken relationship. Although he did come back and was restored to us 4 months later, it still took me years to realize that I had contributed to the damaged relationship.

It is only natural for parents to have high hopes and dreams for their children. However, when we begin to see our children as a reflection or validation of us, we become the center of our dreams, and the children become our source of significance. When that happens in our home it affects the way we relate with our children, and subtly breaks down relationship.

2. Raising Family as an Idol

When we allow the success of our family to determine our security or sense of wellbeing we are seeking from it something God intends us to receive from Him. I am describing idolatry. If homeschoolers are not careful, family can easily become an idol.

At times in their history the Israelites worshipped idols. They didn't always forsake worship of the living God - they merely served other gods with Him. Sometimes they simply made an idol of something good. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees because they elevated issues of holiness higher than the very God who declared them holy (Mat 12:1-8; 23:24). An idol is anything other than God in which we seek security and fulfillment. It may be something biblical or good, but if it has the power to determine our wellbeing, we have elevated it higher than God meant for us. As those who are devoted to our families, and therefore invest a great deal of time, energy, and heart, it is easy to elevate the family too high.

A great problem with idolatry is that idols require sacrifice, and we end up sacrificing relationship with our children for the idol of the family. When we elevate the image of the family, we effectively trade our children's hearts for our reputation.

3. Emphasizing Outward Form

Preoccupation with results often leads to emphasis on outward form. When we are preoccupied with achieving results it is natural to admire the results others seem to have achieved with their children. We like the way the pastor's kids sit reverently in the front pew and take notes of their father's sermon, so we go home and begin to teach our children to sit reverently and to take notes. What we don't know is that the pastor's kids conduct themselves with reverence and attentiveness not because he "cleaned the outside of the cup" and simply drilled them to do so -- he lived a genuine love for Jesus that was contagious, and watched as the fruit was born (Matt 23:26). Parents are destined for disappointment when they admire fruit in others and seek to emulate merely that expression of fruit in their own children. Fruit is born from the inside -- not applied to the outside.

Imagine that the fruit you desired was the edible variety, so you went out into your yard and planted an apple tree. Just suppose that one day, while you were waiting for the apples to begin growing on your tree, you caught a glimpse of a neighbor's apple tree. You noticed in admiration that its branches were laden with big, luscious apples. What would you do? Would you run to the produce market to buy some apples, then go home, and in the dead of night, tie them onto your tree? If you did, the sight of your tree might really impress your neighbors. But that is not what you would do. You would likely go to the neighbor and ask how he cared for and fertilized his tree to produce such fruit. It is the same with our children - luscious fruit will be born from what we put into them - not from what we tie onto them. As a matter of fact, in no time, the fruit that we put onto our children will rot and fall off.

In the homeschool community I have observed that there can be a great emphasis on outward appearance, whether it is dressing for excellence, modesty, grooming, respectful manners, music style, or an attitude of sober reverence in worship. Some even take their children down a country path of humble fashions, raising food, and making bread. Nothing is wrong with any of these things, but we must be careful - we can model for our children outward changes and easily fall into molding their behavior and/or appearance, while missing their hearts. In some circles emphasis on the outward is epidemic.

A friend of mine, a homeschool mom, just passed away of cancer. In the week before she died, I asked her if she had any regrets in her life. She told me she wished she had baked less bread - she said if she had it to do over again she would buy bread and spend more time with her children. She had invested time and energy in pursuing the "path" because she thought it was part of the spiritual homeschool package.

Let us not forget that Jesus came against the Pharisees for their preoccupation with what they felt were legitimate expressions of spirituality. They measured holiness by what was avoided and by what would be seen by others (Mat 6:1-2, 5, 16; 23:5-6, 23-28; John 7:24). The Pharisees were earnest in their religion, but they were preoccupied with outward expressions of holiness rather than hearts of humility and love (Micah 6:8) that would bear genuine fruit. I find it fascinating that in the gospels there is not one mention of Jesus coming against immodesty, even though among his followers were prostitutes and the like. Jesus emphasized cleaning up the inside while the Pharisees were the ones preoccupied with cleaning up the outside. We must ask ourselves: Which are we more like - Jesus or the Pharisees? Even now do we justify ourselves, insisting we emphasize cleaning up both the inside and the outside?

I know that some react strongly to these assertions, so let me emphasize that I do want my wife and daughters to adorn themselves modestly. God did address it once in the New Testament (1Tim 2:9), but we must ask ourselves, is it possible that we have elevated modesty, or other issues of outward form, higher than Jesus did? If he only mentioned modesty once in the epistles and never mentioned it in his earthly ministry, but instead emphasized the importance of a changed heart bearing outward fruit, should we not follow his example and concentrate on reaching our children's hearts? Because He did address it in the first epistle to Timothy, let us teach our children the value of keeping private that which should be, but let us be careful of thinking that just because they look moral on the outside that they have God's values on the inside. Concurrently, let us also be careful of measuring everyone else's enlightenment by what we have decided is modest, spiritual, or holy.

4. Tending to Judge

In setting standards for our family, each of us must work through a process of evaluation and analysis to decide what is safe, wise, or permissible. Once we become convinced of our personal standards, not uncommonly, it follows that we believe they should apply to others as well.

The Pharisees belittled others who didn't hold to their standards. We have gone their way when we judge others. It is easy to miss this area of pride because we may not express our judgments "arrogantly"; we may instead wrap them in compassionate-sounding words. Arrogance wrapped in concerned tones is deceiving.

Pride is so deceptive that we won't know our judgments are even judgments. We will think we are just making observations and feeling pity, when in fact, we are looking down on others from our lofty place of confident enlightenment. It is a high view of ourselves that allows us to condescend to and belittle others in our mind. And if you already knew all this, be careful - pride will even cause us to be amazed that others didn't see what was so obvious to us.

Typically, when we belittle others who don't measure up to our standards, we will also imagine others are judging us. Consequently, we will find ourselves frequently being defensive. We assume that others will think lowly of us for some perceived inadequacy, so we offer unsolicited explanations and clarifications for us or our children. For example, let's say we walked past a TV at Sears and saw something of interest - when we tell others what we saw, we are careful to clarify that we saw it at Sears and weren't watching a TV at home. If we live under fear of judgment, not only will we tend to be on the defensive, but whenever we are in a public setting where our children might be "watched," we will put pressure on them.

When pride is working its work in us, we sincerely believe our personal opinions reflect God's utmost priorities and standards. What we believe to be our "enlightened" perspective becomes a filter by which we gauge others' spirituality, and therefore limits our options for fellowship. We develop a very narrow definition of what we call "likeminded" people, based on the outworkings of our values and opinions. Now we are on a path to exclusivity when we will no longer associate with those who will be with us in eternity. Is it possible we have lost sight of fellowship based on love and devotion to Jesus, and have substituted personal standards and a narrow view of Christian liberty?

There are several serious consequences of raising children in a home marked by pride and judgment. Children may grow up also judging others. Or, they may hide their real values, acting as though they embrace our values, when, in fact, they are simply seeking to avoid discipline and lectures at home. Or, they may see the shallowness of our legalistic faith that consists primarily of "avoid this, wear that, attend this," and not be attracted to it in the least.

5. Depending on Formulas

Homeschool parents often take a formulaic approach to parenting. Committed to achieving results with our children, we look for formulas and principles to ensure our success. Knowing the Bible is full of the wisdom and promises of God, we look to it for its self-working principles and promised methods. Yet, there's a problem with that. We are commanded to trust in God, not in formulas (John 14:1; Ps 37:5; 62:8). There is a monumental difference.

Trust in formulas is really dependence upon ourselves to carry out a procedure correctly. But anyone who really understands the grace of the gospel knows that we cannot take personal credit for any spiritual accomplishments. We are totally God's workmanship (Eph 2:10; Phil 2:13; 1:6) and everything good in our lives is a gift from Him (James 1:17). We can do absolutely nothing by ourselves for which we can take credit (Eph 2:8-9; Gal 6:14; Rom 4:2; 1 Cor 1:28-31; 2 Cor 11:30). Yet many of us lean toward a formulaic mentality, because our fallen natures are drawn toward self-reliance. We want to feel that by our own efforts (works) we have achieved something that will make us acceptable to God - by nature we are legalistic.

God doesn't want us to trust in principles, methods, or formulas, no matter how "biblical" they seem. God wants us to trust in HIM!

6. Over-Dependence on Authority and Control.
Fruitful training of children and roses require a goal, a plan, and diligence in labor. However, the difference is that roses have no mind of their own and only grow as they are allowed. Children are people--self-determining individuals--and they ultimately choose how they will respond to parental influence.

No amount of parental control or restriction will guarantee that a child will turn out exactly as directed. Obviously, our training increases the likelihood our children will cling to the faith when they reach maturity, or turn back to Christ if they do enter a season of rebellion, but our training does not guarantee the desired outcome.

I know that some will struggle with the assertion that parents do not have total control over the outcome of their parenting, because of Proverbs 22:6. And I would have struggled too, ten years ago, but upon examination of the passage in question, I am convinced that it is a verse meant as an admonition of wisdom, not as a promise and guarantee of outcome. Like many of the sayings in Proverbs it is written as a statement of probability and not as a promise.

Solomon set for us a great example of balanced parenting - he admonished his young adult children and gave them commandments, but he knew that for them to honor his commands he needed their hearts. That's why he said, "My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways" (Prov 23:26). The apostle Paul knew how much he needed the hearts of those he exhorted, and therefore told them "... although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I appeal to you on the basis of love..." (Phile 1:8-9).

If we are to have significant influence of our teenage children we must have their hearts. Winning their hearts means gaining the opportunity to influence who they are, not just what they do.

7. Over-Reliance Upon Sheltering

An over-dependence on control in a family is often accompanied by an over-reliance on sheltering of children. It is not uncommon for homeschool parents to feel that since they filter whatever their children see and hear, they will control the results in their lives. That was me for many years. I remember saying to people, "I am controlling the influences in my children's lives, so I am going to control the outcome." I was absolutely certain that my children would be exempted from significant temptation and from developing particular bad habits because I was controlling what touched their lives.

In the last five years I have heard countless reports of highly sheltered homeschool children who grew up and abandoned their parents' values. Some of these children were never allowed out of their parents' sight and were not permitted to be in any kind of group setting, even with other "like-minded" kids, yet they still managed to develop an appetite for the world's pleasures. While I've seen sheltered children grow up and turn away from their parents' standards, conversely, I've known some Christian young people who went to public school, watched TV, attended youth groups, and dated, yet they walk in purity, have respectful, loving relationships with their parents, and now enjoy good marriages. Their parents broke the all the "rules of sheltering," yet these kids grew up close to their families and resilient in their walks with Christ.

Protecting from temptations and corrupting influences is part of raising children. Every parent shelters to one degree or another. All parents shelter - they just draw their lines in different places.Protecting our children is not only a natural response of paternal love, but fulfills the commands of God. The Scriptures are clear that we are to make no provision for our flesh (Rom 13:14) and are to avoid all corrupting influences (2 Cor 6:17-7:1). It warns us that bad company corrupts good morals (1 Cor 15:33) and that those who spend too much time with bad people may learn their ways (Prov 22:24-25) and suffer for it (Prov 13:20). Just as our Father in heaven will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Cor 10:13), we rightly keep our children out of situations they will lack the moral strength to handle. Young children are weak and we are to protect the weak (1 Thes 5:12).

God understood the vulnerability of human nature when he gave the Israelites instructions before they entered the Promised Land. He told them to chase out the idol-worshipping Pagans in the land, lest His people associate with them and be drawn into idolatry (Ex 23:32-33; Num 33:51-56; Josh 23:7-13). The Israelites disregarded God's protective warning and allowed some Pagans to remain in the land. Subsequently, each successive generation of young people was lost to idolatry. God instructed them to shelter their families, but their neglect of His warnings brought pain to their children and to their grandchildren for many generations.

However, we are imbalanced when sheltering from harm is the predominant expression of our parenting. Sheltering is a critical part of parenting, but if parents keep it their primary focus, the children will grow up ill equipped to handle the temptations in the world.A child isolated from disease may appear to be of the greatest health to his parents, but the health of the human body is only proven by how it withstands an attack. A weak constitution succumbs to every germ and virus - a strong one fights them off. Our spiritual and moral health is developed and proved in the same way.

If we isolate our kids from the world until they are adults they may appear to us to be spiritually minded and strong in character. However, it is how they ultimately engage the world that proves their spiritual resilience. This is because sheltering does not transform the human heart - it merely preserves it, temporarily.

It is true that a boxer trains without an opponent until his coach decides he is ready for an actual fight. And it is true that a farmer might raise plants in a greenhouse until they are mature enough to be transplanted and face the various elements of nature. So also, we keep our children away from bad influences when they are young and need to grow unhindered in character and spiritual wisdom. The problem is that sheltering without significant preparation to engage the world fails to equip them. In fact, it may insure that they will fall in their first solo encounters.

Growing up isolated from temptation can develop a child who appears spiritually strong, but the appearance is not reality. When I was in college I moved to northern California to live for a summer in a Christian commune. I was somewhat isolated from the world and surrounded by an amazing support system of my fellow "Jesus people." I remember feeling so full of faith, so committed to holiness, and so in love with God that summer. However, the "spirituality" I felt and the level of holiness I achieved was not real and could not endure testing. At the end of summer I returned to college in Southern California and discovered that I had not developed true spiritual muscles - when faced with temptation I fell flat on my face every time. The communal environment, isolated from significant temptation, had not prepared me for the battle I would face in the world. Valid spiritual growth required that I face temptation and develop the capacity to resist it, which eventually I did. My isolation from temptation had left me like a boxer who had shadow boxed, trained rigorously, and looked good in his trunks, but had never faced a sparring partner, let alone a true opponent.

I believe that a primary reason we over-rely on sheltering is because it is easy. It requires no planning or expenditure of energy. It takes minimal immediate brainpower. we simply assess that something might be harmful and say to our children, "No." I don't know if I would go so far as to call it lazy parenting, but I will say that investing in our children takes a lot more work and a lot more time.

8. Not Passing On a Pure Faith

We've all heard it said that faith is caught and not taught. The Galatian church polluted their faith by seeking to make themselves acceptable to God with what they did or didn't do" (Gal 3:3). In the same way, we may have started off years ago with a simple, undefiled faith, but the more we got caught up in all the "works" of intense parenting, the more we moved away from a simple faith contagious to our children. It is critical for our sake, let alone for our children, that we enjoy a life-giving faith in Christ with no religious trappings added to it.

As I look back, I see that with my older children I was too concerned with how they were perceived by others. I saw their behavior as a reflection on me, and I wanted to look good. They, therefore, sensed in me a measure of pretentiousness--not the genuineness of faith that would have drawn them to me or to the Jesus I spoke about. My sincere concern for their character was overshadowed by my concern for my reputation. I have discovered that, like me, multitudes of parents want their children's hearts but live a faith that fails to completely attract them.

9. Not Cultivating a Loving Relationship With Our Children

Relationships between parents and teens are weakest in control-oriented homes. Bev and I treated our children as if they were "projects." The more they became projects, the less we had significant relationship. The less we had relationship, the more we lost their hearts. Without their hearts, the less we were able to influence them or their values. We regularly spent hour coaching and admonishing them during the teen years, not realizing that without their hearts, the best we could do was make more rules and devise new consequences. The consequences affected the outside, but not the inside.

Our Story
When my oldest son was almost 16 we let him get his first job washing dishes at a restaurant managed by a Christian friend of ours. As diehard shelterers we wrestled with whether or not our son was ready to enter the world's workforce. We knew we couldn't shelter him forever, and so finally concluded that he should be old enough to send into the world two nights a week. What we didn't realize was that he would be working with drug-using, tattooed, partiers, and our Christian friend was never scheduled to work our son's shift.

Within a month it became apparent that our son's new work associates were having an effect on him. He came home one evening and asked, "Dad, can I dye my hair blue?" After my wife was finally able to peal me off the ceiling, I laid into him, reminding him whose son he was, and that I would not have people at church telling their children not to be like the pastor's son. I explained that just because he wanted to use washable dye, it didn't make me any happier. (Note that my intense reaction had to do with "outward appearances" and the impact on me.)

Of course, my wife and I immediately began to evaluate whether we had made a mistake by letting him take the job. After an intense discussion we decided to coach him more carefully and let him keep his job.

Two months later he came home from work and asked me if he could pierce his ear. Again, my wife had to peal me off the ceiling. He thought it might be okay since he wanted a cross earring -- like I was supposed to be happy, because it would be a "sanctified" piercing. If that wasn't enough, he also wanted to get a tattoo! But it was going to be okay, because it would be a Christian tattoo!

As I was looking back on this experience several years later, something my son said shortly after he started his job kept coming back to me. When I picked him up the second night of work, he got in the car with a big smile on his face and said "They like me!" As I dwelt on that comment, it suddenly came clear to me - my son had finally met someone who liked him for who he was. Few others in his entire life had shown him much acceptance, especially not his mother and I. It is no exaggeration - in our efforts to shape and improve him, all we did was find fault with everything he did. We loved him dearly, but he constantly heard from us that what he did (who he was) wasn't good enough. He craved our approval, but we couldn't be pleased. Years later, I realized he had given up trying to please us when he was 14, and from then on he was just patronizing us.

The reason our son wanted to adorn himself like his work associates, was because they accepted him for who he was. He wanted to fit in with those who made him feel significant. He wanted to be like those who gave him a sense of identity. The problem wasn't one that could be solved by extended sheltering - he could have been sheltered until he was 30 and he still would have been vulnerable. The problem was that we had sent our son into the world insecure in who he was. He went into the world with a hole in his heart that God had wanted to fill through his parents.

Whether believer or unbeliever, those young people who are least tempted to follow the crowd are those who are secure in themselves and don't need the approval of others. The Bible calls insecurity the fear of man - it is allowing other's opinions of us to affect our values and choices.

The Solution

In the Bible we see that people obeyed God for two reasons - fear and love. King David sang of his love for God (Ps 18:1; 116:1; 119:159) and he also sang of the fear of God (Ps 2:11; 22:25; 33:8). God wants His followers to be drawn to Him out of love (Jer 31:3), and that's why it is His kindness that leads us to repentance (Rom 2:4). But He also wants us to be kept on the path by fear of His authority (Luke 12:5; 1 Pet 2:17). That's why He told the Israelites He wanted both their fear and their love; "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul" (Deut 10:12). With our children, it should be the same.

Those who have the most power to influence our hearts are those to whom we are drawn: those who succeed with our values (which is what a hero is), those who can benefit us, those who make us feel valuable, and those who have earned our respect.

If our children grow up motivated only by fear of consequence, they will eventually get away with what they can whenever we are not around (Eph 6:6). If we have their hearts they will seek to honor us whether we are present or not, and their hearts will remain open to our influence.

I refer you to the apostle Paul who modeled this approach to leadership perfectly, "Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I appeal to you on the basis of love..." (Phile 1:8-9a). Paul's pattern with the churches suggests he understood that appeals to love were more powerful than commands and threats.

Conclusion

I am convinced that the most contagious parenting is living a heartfelt faith before your children. Fruitful interaction is not about what you do to your young people, but who you are with them. It's about having a real faith in God, and expressing it in a real relationship with a real person--not about methods and self-working principles. God intends that the side-effect of loving Jesus and enjoying the grace of the gospel will be that all people--including our children--will be touched by the Savior in us. I pray in Jesus' name that as you read these words you will experience the grace of God in a fresh and new way.

Reb Bradley is a writer and national conference speaker. Read the complete article from which this excerpt was taken here. Visit www.familyministries.com to order Reb's CD set Influencing Children's Hearts.

NEW PHOTOS!!!

2011-09-26T15:25:00.000-05:00

So I'm just heavy-hearted. I have a lot going on. Not with me - with people I love and care for. It just seems like hurt is surrounding adn engulfing them and I'm so helpless to do anything, or even say anything effective. So today, this is all weighing on my mind, and I open my email to see the beautiful words,"New Photos" and I about cried. God knew I needed to smile, right now...today. So here are the photos of my beautiful birthday girl. We love you!

She is holding the birthday care package we sent her!

Did you notice..They cut her bangs!

Junior Football

2011-09-10T13:28:00.000-05:00

Jack's first football game was today.

Addie was mad I wouldn't allow her to eat rocks. Poor baby.

Jack running onto the field! (I love this shot!)

The team in their huddle.

Jack, looking to hear the play from the coach

Jack plays line backer & half back

I know you can't see it, but Jack is in the middle of that group of boys trying to run the ball.

I love football season!

(not so) Happy Birthday

2011-09-09T05:26:00.000-05:00

Today our little Avery Ha-rin turns one. She will celebrate with her foster family in Korea. Holt will have a party for all the babies turning one and she will attend. She will wear a beautiful hanbok dress and celebrate in traditional Korean style. She will get our presents, eventually, and will open them, and although I'm so glad Holt provides soemthing special for all the babies, she is still not home, and I will miss it all. I'm terribly sad about this. I'm not angry, not stressed, not worried, just sad. So happy birthday sweet baby girl. We love you so much and some day we will be able to hold you,love you, and bring you home forever.

Here are some photos of the birthday package we sent her.

Her very own birthday hat

Her 1st birthday bib

Party stuff

A birthday dress

Its traditional to give gold jewelry on a child's first birthday, so we bought her this gold bracelet.

Everything is all wrapped and ready to go.

I managed to fit it in the box! Its a miracle!

Happy birthday sweetheart.

Pray for Me

2011-09-03T10:02:00.001-05:00

Ok, so I'm just gonna lay it out there and tell you I'm struggling and a bit frustrated. We received notification that our agency would only give us updates on Avery every other month instead of monthly due to the large amount of children currently waiting to be adopted. Although I completely understand the reasoning and it truly does make sense, it was demoralizing. I realize it's a very small thing, but it just seems like every time I get an email update on the Korea program its nothing but bad news. I'm not worried. I'm not stressed. I'm just sad. I'm going miss Avery's first birthday, miss dressing her up for Halloween, miss Christmas…the list keeps growing…and then to top it off, I'm not going to have any idea how she's progressing or developing. It's not a big thing; it's just one more thing. One more thing…again.

Now, I have prayed fervently about my heart and mind throughout this adoption. God has given me great peace about all of this, and although I'm sad, I'm not struggling, or fighting, or angry, or even really discouraged. But today, when I read that last email…I could feel discouragement creeping into my heart. I can't let that into my heart because it will taint everything I say and do and I will not allow Satan to tempt me to despair. He cannot have one day of this wait. This time, this day, is God's and I will not allow sin, temptation, or Satan steal that from me. I will get Avery, there will be day she is placed in my arms, and in that there is great hope. So I just want you to pray for me, and Mark, that we do not give place to frustration, discouragement, or anger. Pray God guards our hearts and fills us with His joy and peace, even when I'm a little sad. Thanks. J

Unity & Prayer

2011-08-23T06:02:00.003-05:00

"I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, ²¹ that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. ²² I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— ²³ I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." John 17:20b-23.

I was reading this the other day when I noticed for the first time ever that Jesus says, when His people are one THEN the world will know that God has sent Jesus. The "if" "then" nature of that verse struck me. When believers unify, then the world will see Jesus. I was, and still am, very struck by this.

In that same Bible study time I ran across this video series that illustrated this very truth. It's interesting to me how God lays truths on my heart and then faithfully brings things related to that very same topic over and over. (I need MUCH repetition to learn!) Right now, He's continually showing me the power of prayer and unity. This video illustrates its power. I hope you're inspired to forgive and pray fervently after watching it. I know I was.

If my people who are called by My name, humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14

first days!

2011-08-19T17:08:00.001-05:00

Here's my Jacker on his first day of fourth grade

Here's Drew on his first day of 6th grade!! He's in middle school!! I can't believe it!

Here's Nick who is NOT my little boy...He's finally taller than me. He is starting his sophomore year. I can't even believe how big he is. I've only got three more years left!

I love my boys!

Psalm 77: a reflection of my heart

2011-08-11T05:52:00.003-05:00

Last night we heard from some dear friends of ours who have been fostering a couple girls now for a year and a half. They were told their court date to terminate parental rights had been cancelled and they were instead working the girls back into the home. Having been involved with them for over a year and being friends with the foster parents, I can say with all assurance that going home is NOT a good idea; and in fact would be a tragedy for those girls and a complete failure of the foster system to protect them. These are girls we have grown to love, have prayed for and helped care for so this news was upsetting to say the least. I woke up this morning with this still looming and weighing heavy on my heart. I just cried out to God on their behalf. How can He allow them to go home? How can a family sacrifice so much for them just to have them ripped out of their lives? Its beyond my comprehension. As I was pleading for them I went to Psalms, as I always do, to find my psalm to pray for the morning. This is what God gave me. (He is so good!)

I cry aloud to God,
aloud to God, and He will hear me.

² In my day of trouble I sought the Lord.
My hands were lifted up all night long;
I refused to be comforted.

³ I think of God; I groan;
I meditate; my spirit becomes weak.

Selah

⁴ You have kept me from closing my eyes;
I am troubled and cannot speak.

⁵ I consider days of old,
years long past.

⁶ At night I remember my music;
I meditate in my heart, and my spirit ponders.

⁷ "Will the Lord reject forever
and never again show favor?

⁸ Has His faithful love ceased forever?
Is [His] promise at an end for all generations?

⁹ Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has He in anger withheld His compassion?"

Selah

¹⁰ So I say, "It is my sorrow
that the right hand of the Most High has changed."

¹¹ I will remember the LORD's works;
yes, I will remember Your ancient wonders.

¹² I will reflect on all You have done
and meditate on Your actions.

¹³ God, Your way is holy.
What god is great like God?

¹⁴ You are the God who works wonders;
You revealed Your strength among the peoples.

¹⁵ With power You redeemed Your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.

Selah

¹⁶ The waters saw You, God.
The waters saw You; they trembled.
Even the depths shook.

¹⁷ The clouds poured down water.
The storm clouds thundered;
Your arrows flashed back and forth.

¹⁸ The sound of Your thunder was in the whirlwind;
lightning lit up the world.
The earth shook and quaked.

¹⁹ Your way went through the sea,
and Your path through the great waters,
but Your footprints were unseen.

²⁰ You led Your people like a flock
by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

I thank you dear Father for hearing my cry, and the cry of others. Thank you God that Your way is holy and that no god is great like You. I praise you for You are the God who works wonders; and although my spirit is weak and I am troubled, I know that you are here, walking beside me, the girls, my friends, …but Your footprints are unseen.

Vacation Day #5

2011-08-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

On the last day of our vacation, we went to Waterworld. I didn't take the camera as the heat and water could have ruined the camera. I will say it was a great park! It was huge and had tons of fun slides. Addies hates the water and spent most of the time on the towel. She screamed when we tried to take her down a little kiddie slide, she was afraid of the little kiddie fountains, and she hated the waves in the wave pool. The rest of us had a great day, and someday she will learn that the water is fun! We'll try again next year!

We had a great vacation!!!!

Vacation Day #4

2011-08-07T14:56:00.001-05:00

On day #4, we went to Elitch Gardens, an amusement park...which my boys LOVE!!

Just one of the rides at the park

One of the many rollercoasters there.

Addie liked riding in her little red wagon...and drinking pop.

Here she is riding a kiddie ride. She really did like it, although the photos don't seem to show that! She kept asking to go again!

She seems to be thinking..."What are my parents thinking?!"

Addie & I on the trian. Her favorite thing was the merry go round. She loves horses and riding them made her very happy!! I didn't get any pictures of that :(

Vacation Day #3

2011-08-06T20:11:00.000-05:00

On day #3 of our vacation, we went to the Museum of Nature & Science. We went through a special pirate exhibit they had on display. There we learned about real pirates and saw treasures salvaged from a pirate ship that sunk over 300 years ago.

Looking at pirates coins

Nick tried on all the pirate stuff from the gift shop.

Here are all of my mateys. Notice Jack, Drew, and Addie put their coins in their eyes and tried to act very pirate-like for the photo. Very nice.

Pirate coins...not real, from the gift shop. Everyone got a coin!

This museum is well known for their vast collection of dinosaur bones. It was impressive. Here are just a few shots of the bones we saw.

We all went to the 3D IMAX video, "Under the Sea" at the museum. Here we are with our 3D glasses. We're so cool!?!?

In the wildlife exhibit, Nick decided to try on "deer ears" to see how much better he could hear. He said the improvement was remarkable.

(I almost stole them in hopes that he would listen to more than 50% of what I say.)

Addie looking at the Albatross birds. They were nearly as big as she was! We had a great day, and learned a ton too!

(One of the most interesting facts I learned was when the ancient egyptians mummified people, they took a long hook, stuck it up their nose, and pulled their brian out through their nose. Oh yes...useful information!!!)

Tomorrow...Day #4

Vacation Day #2

2011-08-03T18:41:00.001-05:00

While in Breckenridge, we had to go give the alpine slides a try!!!

We then road the chair lift to the top of peak 8 and did some hiking. The views were absolutely breathtaking and we really enjoyed the 55 degree weather!

Addie was really sleepy...we don't think she felt very good at such high altitudes. She wasn't herself at all! She didn't talk or even wiggle...very out of character!

There she is sleeping...You can see the snow on the hill behind us!! Mark did a great job hiking with a 26 pound baby on his back at high altitudes. We loved the gorgeous views and fun trails!!

Day #3...tomorrow!

Vacation Day #1

2011-08-02T22:01:00.000-05:00

We decided that since we weren't going to Korea this year, we'd go on vacation to Colorado. We spent our frist couple days in Breckenridge. Here are photos of day #1. We stayed in a two bedroom Condo in "Tannhauser."

We ate at a little outside restaurant just off of Main street in Breckenridge. the weather was perfect! It was 68 degrees this day!

We had a little music to go with our dinner!

Addie was just playing around.

The waitress gave the kids Wiki-stix. The only "kid" who played with them was Nick. I took photos to prove this!

Here is one of Nick's creations!

Here are the boys by the river that runs through Breckenridge.

Up to no good!!!

Day #2...tomorrow!!!

Noodle Time!!

2011-07-30T20:10:00.000-05:00

Addison is NOT a big eater..and that is an understatement!! That being said, She LOVES Ramen Noodles! Here is a pictorial demonstration of her really eating her food. I have to photograph it as it so rarely happens!

Happy to be eating!!!

Big bite with the fork.

Sucking down the noodles.

Forget the fork...I'll just use my hands!!

Ahh!!! beautiful noodles!!!

It ends with her jsut using her ahnds and shoving it her mouth!

Update & New Photos!

2011-07-27T22:00:00.000-05:00

We were so excited and surprised to receive an update & new photos! We couldn't believe it!!! The report says Avery is at a 9 month developmental level, so only a month behind. She is creeping/crawling, waving bye-bye, playing pat-a-cake, has two teeth, and has starting eating cereal. She currently weighs 18.5lbs, and is 27.95 inches which means she is pretty little still! The photos show ehr with the care package we sent her! Were so happy she got our gifts!

I'm assuming the lady holding her is her foster mom. So sweet.

I think this photo was taken at the foster mom's home. It doesn't look like a Holt photo or room.

Here she is wearing the outfit Nick bought her. It fits perfectly! (Which means she is wearing 9 month old clothing)

Thoughts from my reading

2011-07-22T10:49:00.002-05:00

I came across the following quote in a book I'm currently reading:

"...In keeping with our cultural biases, we have tended to overemphasize intellectual truth to the detriment of experiential truth - learning the truth by practicing it. We have been solidly concerned with true understandings of Biblical doctrine. We have largely conformed our teaching to what can easily be done in a classroom – conveying information. We have, therefore, tended to ignore the considerable body of truth that only comes through launching out in faith – dependence on God, truth that cannot be reduced to information (John 3:21). We fail to see that it is experiential truth that is in focus in verses such as John 3:21, "But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God." And John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (Notice: "know the truth" = knowledge, "set you free" = experience)

Had we not narrowed our understanding of truth to the informational and intellectual aspects of it, we might well have gone further in understanding and participating in the more supernaturalistic dimensions of our relationship with God. For experiencing a life of faith gets one well beyond that which can be rationally understood."

My prayer: That the gap between my Biblical knowledge and my day to day experience lessens. That my faith in what God says manifests itself daily in my life, experience, reactions, expectations and decisions. I believe in a supernatural, all-powerful, infinitely wise God who has filled me with the Holy Spirit and His power …May I daily believe that and live that.

“Prepare to Wait”

2011-07-20T21:21:00.001-05:00

So and we've been speculating about the EP situation in Korea and came to conclusion that we would not get an EP (considering there are people who were matched in February who haven't even been submitted for an EP and were May 20^th!) This would mean it would be next year until were even submitted for one. We speculated that we'd get submitted in February and be approved in March and travel in April. Of course this was just conjecture and speculation; that is until the other day. That's when we got an email that said to prepare NOT to get an EP this year, and DO prepare to bring home a baby who is close to two years old - Yes...2 years old – a toddler. This confirmed our speculations. I don't have too many thoughts right now except I'm just gonna keep walking the road God's put us on, and I'm determined to bring Him glory regardless (through His strength and faithfulness)

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us." -Ephesians 3:20

This I believe.

The birthmother

2011-07-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

I think often about Addison reuniting with her birthmother. I send her birthmother photos, videos, and letters so she will be able to watch her grow up and know she is thriving and loved. I also want Addison to know I valued her birth mother enough to foster this communication. It's a very small thing, but I feel Addison will want this, and will want to know she has my blessing if and when she wants to meet her birthmother. I never want her to feel as though I might be upset when she desires to pursue this relationship. God has been, and continues to teach me to hold my children VERY loosely. They are gifts, not possessions. I didn't feel this way initially, but my heart has had a drastic 180 since we first started the adoption process and I began to pray for her birthmother. Prayer changes hearts.

I say all of this because I ran across a touching video that depicts a Korean adoptee reuniting with her birthmother. She explains the conflicting emotions connected with this situation. It is so personal, touching, insightful and gives me a glimpse into what may be in store for my daughter…and the prospect of sharing her with her birthmother.

No Good News

2011-07-16T09:17:00.002-05:00

We were notified by our agency that no EPs would be processed in July. There was a lengthy, drawn-out explanation that I do not wish to recount and my opinion on the explanation isn't something I'm going to share, nor would it be beneficial for anyone who reads my blog, so I have kept it hidden amongst the pages of my personal journal. When I contemplate this entire situation, which is entirely political, I tend to react…but these decisions, made by powerful people in a foreign country, directly impact many people and when I bring this information to a personal level; something I dread to do, I become very sad. I have a beautiful little girl in Korea, a little girl I love, for whom I've bought clothes, prayed for, created a room for, bought furniture for, and simply adore. She is beautiful, perfect…and yet she is no closer to coming home today than she was in June. She won't be any closer till next year…maybe. She is languishing and I'm sad.

During my devotions I always pray a random Psalm. I have no schedule I just browse the Psalms until I find one that speaks to my heart. It's random, but I find God always uses the ones I pray. I also I find this aligns my prayers and heart with God's so my prayers aren't selfish and misguided…well it helps. Anyway, this morning I was browsing, and I came upon Psalm 136. Here is a small excerpt:

¹ Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

² Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.

³ Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.

⁴ to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.

⁵ who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.

⁶ who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.

⁷ who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.

⁸ the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.

⁹ the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.

I almost didn't pray it because I it said, "His love endures forever," way too much; it says it 26 times! (I realize as I write this that is a very stupid reason...but it was very early!) But I did pray it and as I prayed, I was reminded, comforted, and strengthened by the fact that God's love does endure forever. If you read this Psalm it kind of odd really; Look at what I mean:

Verse 10: To him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt

        His love endures forever

Verse 17: Who struck down great Kings

        His love endures forever

Verse 18: and killed mighty kings

        His love endures forever

I find this odd because I don't think about God's love when He kills kings, or when I read about the firstborn children in Egypt being killed. But then I thought, God did this to protect his children, to ensure they could fulfill the plan he had for them,(I'm sure there are other reasons, but I'm not chasing that rabbit trail this morning) and in that light I can see God's love. I don't see God's love right now in this situation, but I know His love endures forever. I know this because God reminded me of this 26 times this morning - in every verse I read.

Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.

    His love endures forever.

The 4th of July!

2011-07-11T14:42:00.000-05:00

Addie's cousin, Alyssa

mom & dad

Addie..posing wiht our friend Tom

What's that Daddy?

My sweet Jacker

My sister-in-law posing while taking pictures!

Mark, showing the babies poppers!

Drew, refusing to look at the camera

My brother-in-law with baby Owen

My good-looking man!

Just some of our fireworks! Addie liked the fireworks. The noise and explosions didn't bother her at all. She finally wore out at 10:45...but we had a great 4th of July

Pictures & Video!!!

2011-07-02T10:23:00.000-05:00

I am so excited!!! Yesterday I received a CD in the mail that contained pcitures and video of Avery! I was thrilled! She was 9 months old when these were taken! She is so beautiful... I can't wait to hold her and do her fabulously thick hair!

She is wearing the outfit Drew chose for her so we know she got her care package!

I don't think she's very excited about the photo shoot!

I don't think there is a cuter baby...except Addison, of course!

Nothin’ New

2011-06-22T20:47:00.001-05:00

So, were about 10 weeks into our adoption, and our "timeframe" is more ambiguous than ever. The question everyone wants so know is, "When will you get her?" In short, we have no idea. We should have a better idea towards the end of August or beginning of September, but until then we are in limbo. Here's what's happened. Korea only allows a certain number of children to be adopted internationally. This number is automatically decreased every year because there is great political pressure to end international adoption. Because of this pressure, the government decreases the number based on whatever percentage they need to reduce international adoption for that year, not based on the number of children in foster care.

So what happens is each agency receives a limited number of Emigration Permits every year, and every year they receive less and less. (An Emigration Permit, or an EP, is the document issued by the government allowing children to leave the country for adoption) What's sad is that the agencies have more children in care than they do Emigration Permits. So this means each year they get further and further behind in placing their children in homes. Why is this happening? Because international adoption is a hot topic in Korea and politically it looks good to be able to report to the general public that "Yes, we have reduced international but such and such %, and we intend to end international adoptions by this date." The fact that is being overlooked is that the problem of orphaned children is still there, but now the problem is being hidden behind charts that show artificial numbers of reduced international adoptions. What is not widely publicized is that the number of Korean children in foster care is steadily growing every year because the government will not allow them to be adopted internationally and Koreans in general have long standing, cultural biases against adopting (This attitude is slowly changing, but not fast enough to find homes for all who need them)

So, what does this mean for us? Our agency is behind in issuing EPs as is every agency. They only got through August or September 2010 last year, so when 2011 began they started 4-5 months behind. We are now in June and they have started to run low on EPs. They have issued them for most of the people who had February 2011 referrals, but NO EPs are being submitted or approved by the Korean government at all this month (The government gave no reason for the sudden halt) This is very worrisome as it most likely indicates they re running very low. There is general speculation that if we are not submitted for our EP in July, we may not be submitted at this year as there will be none left to give. This may or may not transpire, all we know is we may or may not make the cut this year. If we do, we could travel to Korea in the fall, but if not, we won't travel till February or March of 2012. That would make our little Avery about 18 months old when we get her. I have never heard of anyone having a year wait from referral to travel with our agency, (Other agencies yes, but not ours) but it is a very real possibility for us right now.

Anyway, I am refusing to do much speculation right now, as it will do nothing but breed frustration and anger. I will not allow this to steal my peace or pervade my mood. I even waited a day before posting this so I would be less emotional and be able to process it all. I am not going to be derailed by circumstances, and I will not allow the time I do have with my kids to be ruined or stolen by an adoption setback. Avery is in Gods hands and there is no better place for her. I want her home, but I'm content with where God has me and my biggest longing is to know Him more. I would love my baby girl NOW, but until then, I will rest in His hands.

The Fountains!

2011-06-08T11:58:00.000-05:00

I took the kids to the park by the river. Its a beautiful area with big trees, huge playgrounds, and a large area full of interactive fountians. They always love it....well, mostly!

Here we are eating our picnic lunch. We jsut went to this little burger place and picked up our picnic, but it was great! Nothing like big greasy burgers and homemade fries for lunch!! Yummy!

I knew things weren't going well in the fountains when Addison refused to allow Drew to put her down. She cringed everytime she got wet!

Clearly, my boys weren't phased!

Here are is the large fountain area.

Here is where Addie ended up: on the bench. (By her own chosing...see the annoyed look on her face! She did not like those fountians)

I think this is the look that says, "Please don't take me near those fountains!"

Watching the fun from afar.

Addie's bench

My boys! Always wrestling!

Here they are playing at the huge playground right by the fountains.

Addison did enjoy swinging!

She also enjoyed eating crackers on the picnic blanket. We had a great afternoon!

Idolatry

2011-06-04T18:18:00.002-05:00

I read an interesting post on indentifying idolatry in your life. It was pointed, direct, and telling. Here is an excerpt:

"Life only has meaning/I only have worth if…

I have power and influence over others." (Power Idolatry)
I am loved and respected by _____." (Approval Idolatry)
I have this kind of pleasure experience, a particular quality of life." (Comfort idolatry)
I am able to get mastery over my life in the area of _____." (Control idolatry)
people are dependent on me and need me." (Helping Idolatry)
someone is there to protect me and keep me safe." (Dependence idolatry)
I am completely free from obligations or responsibilities to take care of someone." (Independence idolatry)
I am highly productive and getting a lot done." (Work idolatry)
I am being recognized for my accomplishments, and I am excelling in my work." (Achievement idolatry)
I have a certain level of wealth, financial freedom, and very nice possessions." (Materialism idolatry)
I am adhering to my religion's moral codes and accomplished in its activities." (Religion idolatry)
this one person is in my life and happy to be there, and/or happy with me." (Individual person idolatry)
I feel I am totally independent of organized religion and am living by a self-made morality." (Irreligion idolatry)
my race and culture is ascendant and recognized as superior." (Racial/cultural idolatry)
a particular social grouping or professional grouping or other group lets me in." (Inner ring idolatry)
my children and/or my parents are happy and happy with me." (Family idolatry)
Mr. or Ms. "Right" is in love with me." (Relationship Idolatry)
I am hurting, in a problem; only then do I feel worthy of love or able to deal with guilt." (Suffering idolatry)
my political or social cause is making progress and ascending in influence or power." (Ideology idolatry)
I have a particular kind of look or body image." (Image idolatry)

The second part of his post was really direct as well!

If you seek POWER (success, winning, influence)…

Your greatest nightmare: Humiliation
People around you often feel: Used
Your problem emotion: Anger

If you seek APPROVAL (affirmation, love, relationships)…

Your greatest nightmare: Rejection
People around you often feel: Smothered
Your problem emotion: Cowardice

If you seek COMFORT (privacy, lack of stress, freedom)…

Your greatest nightmare: Stress, demands
People around you often feel: Neglected
Your problem emotion: Boredom

If you seek CONTROL (self-discipline, certainty, standards)…

Your greatest nightmare: Uncertainty
People around you often feel: Condemned
Your problem emotion: Worry

Here is the LINK if you'd like to read the post it in its entirety: Its a very convivting post!

Update on Avery!

2011-05-28T11:04:00.001-05:00

We received Avery's latest well baby check! (She goes monthly to the doctor and this is his report on how she is doing) She is doing quite well! She was 8 months old at this last appointment and she weighed 16.1lbs which puts in her in the 8% in weight. She is 26.7 inches long which puts her in the 17% for length. So in short, she is a tiny little peanut wearing 3-6 mo. clothing! I always thought she looked so chubby in her photos but clearly she is not!! Developmentally she was at a 7.5 month level, so just slightly behind. She creeps around, but is not officially crawling yet. She plays peek-a-boo, and sits alone. She has met most her developmental milestones as well so we are thrilled to hear about her great progress! Can't wait for new photos!!!

All the Babies!!

2011-05-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

I kept my friend's girls this weekend as she had graduation obligations! It was hilarious trying to get some photos ... as you can see!!

YEAH!! We did it!!

The Aroma of Christ

2011-05-21T13:12:00.008-05:00

(How deal with insensitive people & comments)

I am, obviously, an adoptive parent. I like to read blogs (some being adoption blogs). I read adoptive parent forums. I have even read a couple books written for adoptive parents. I don't consider myself an expert; not even close, but I do want to say something to adoptive parents and I respectfully hope they'll listen.

Over the past few years, I have read MANY posts & articles written by adoptive parents about what everyone else should and shouldn't say to adopted children, what people should and shouldn't ask an adopted, and more specifically adopted, non-white child. I've read posts that lecture the general public about what they should ask, where it would be appropriate to ask it, what not to ask etc… and I'll be frank, it wears me out. I find all of the pointed advice overwhelming to the point of giving up, and I often hear a small voice saying, "forget it! I just won't ask you, or any other adoptive parent, anything about adoption since it's such a sensitive topic." After such articles my thought is always this, if I feel this way, how must the non-adoptive general public feel?!

Here's the reality; when a family decides to adopt, and more specifically, adopt a child who is of another race, then they have kicked the door wide open for curious questions because racially blended families aren't the norm. This isn't just a United States thing; they aren't the norm anywhere in the world. It is pretty much common knowledge that whenever you make a decision to go against social norms, you're inviting questions, opinions, and curious looks. This is reality, and it is a reality everywhere in the world because people who break tradition or don't follow "normal" paths ALWAYS get this reaction, no matter what country you live in.

For example, when a teenager dyes his hair red and spikes it into a four-inch Mohawk, people look. Why? -because it's not the norm. When a family chooses to have no TVs in the home, people ask questions; its not the norm. When a family moves half-way around the world to be missionaries, people question and inquire about it because it's not normal. If I'm going to be honest with you, I too am curious as to why people do these types of things . Why did that boy put his hair in a red mohawk? Why did you make the decision to not have TVs? What led you to uproot your family to be a missionary? I truly want to know. (…and I'll probably have an opinion about it too…but I promise to bite my tongue!)

Anyway, when people ask you, adoptive parents, about your child, this should be expected. This should not be a reason to take offense, and I firmly believe that many adoptive parents do take the questions in stride and see it as an opportunity to help others understand the need for adoption. It is also a great opportunity to share Christ if the conversion goes that way. After all, adoption is a beautiful picture of what Christ has done for His children. These "general-public questions" are something that will NOT go away, so may I tenderly suggest that adoptive parents learn to accept and answer them tactfully and with kindness. In doing so, we teach our child how to handle various people (from brass and offensive to sweet and curious) and their questions with grace that reflects Christ, honors Him, and opens lines of communication between people who adopt and those who haven't.

When we are rude, short tempered, and irritated after encounters with curious people, we teach our children to react the same way. We teach them to have a chip on their shoulder, to dislike people who don't understand, to be short with people who don't phrase a question 'just-so," to lash out when the question is insensitive. We should instead teach them how to be merciful and handle these situations tactfully and respectfully. (I'm not saying they, or we, have to answer every question…certainly not!!!) We should teach our children, and be examples of how to kindly decline to give out information without offending the questioner, thus showing the grace and mercy Christ has graciously extended to us.

This is part of our job as parents of adopted children; to prepare them for a world that may not understand them, so they, and we, can become little bridges of understanding that span the gap between those who have no idea why people adopt and those who do.

No, our adopted children didn't sign up for this; (but nether did the child whose blind, or the one with Cerebral palsy, or the quadriplegic ) but God has placed them, and us, in this situation and thus, it has become our God-given mission to honor Him by being examples of grace, gentleness and kindness; even when the questions are inappropriate.

Isn't this what the Bible calls us to do? Didn't Paul say, "I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some." (1 Corinthians 9:22) Shouldn't we too strive to be like this so that maybe, just maybe, someone's mind will soften to the concept of adoption, or maybe even Christ? And maybe this softened heart will result in that person supporting an orphanage, a child, or loving their adopted grandchild more. Or maybe it will be that "pivotal moment" that God uses to change their hearts so they too follow God down the path of adoption.

I pray that we will, all be more like this. It is my prayer I am more like this so I can leave a legacy of kindness and an example of God's mercy for my children to follow. After all, God has been, and still is merciful to me even though I have denied Him, sinned against him, and deeply offended him, so it only makes sense that I, in turn, extend that mercy to others and in doing so be "the aroma of Christ."

For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing,
2 Corinthians 2:15

My Mathematical Mom

2011-05-14T12:59:00.004-05:00

My mother: Math teacher, Math professor, Math workshop presentor, Math tutor, Math publisher, Math expert!!! She has a blog with ton of math tips and also sells SUPER CHEAP math products for all ages from addition to algebra!

If you are...

Student
Parent
Teacher
Math Phobic
Math Lover
Homeschooler

...then you will love all the ideas and resources she has!! Check out her links and find some great Math stuff!!!!

Her Math products for sale: http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/SciPi/Products

Her blog site: http://gofigurewithscipi.blogspot.com/

School, Sports, & Sons

2011-05-14T11:15:00.001-05:00

Drew completed a research paper/project over John Adams. He did his presentation Monday. Here are some photos of him and his display board.

He even let me get a photo with him...even with all his friends around!

Jack is playing baseball for the Caridnals this year. He loves playing catcher! Here are some photos of his game yesterday night.

A Care Package for Avery

2011-05-08T06:05:00.001-05:00

We wanted to send Avery a care package, like we did for Addison, so the boys and I went shopping. Here's Jack looking through rows of pink clothes...something you'll not see often!!!

Jack ended up choosing a blanket for her.

Drew chose an outfit..so did Nick but I didn't get a picture of it!

Addison just played in the cart!

Our gifts will be taken to Korea by friends of ours who are going within the next couple weeks to get their little girl! (Thanks Brooke from Mississippi!) We hope Avery like her things and she comes home soon!

Addison turns two!

2011-05-05T15:13:00.001-05:00

Addison truned two Sunday, May 1st. Here's the four layer white cake I made her. (don't be too impressed; it was from a box)

Wow! That's a look!

Addison & her Daddy

Addison and her Papa...she was feeding him cake!

Addison opening her gifts..with baby Owen. She kept telling him, "Mine!"

Playing with her new toys. It was a great birthday!

Introducing....

2011-05-02T06:52:00.001-05:00

Avery Faith Ha-rin

5 months old

1 month

Newborn

So you may be wondering how on earth we received this referral so quickly? Well, in short, God. Here’s how it went: Mark and I have long been discussing a second adoption. We both felt led to adopt two children. We knew this before we even brought Addison home. We toyed with the idea of adopting form foster care, and over time felt drawn to go back to Korea. So we did. I prayed Saturday, April 2 that God wouldn’t make us wait like last time. As you probably remember, it took two years to complete Addison’s adoption. It was horrible. I begged God to not make us wait…shamelessly begged. I did tell God that I would wait if that was His plan, and I would wait better, and bring Him glory, but in my heart I really didn’t want to. Sunday, April 3^rd we sent in our on-line application to the Waiting Child Program (WCP) at Holt. (Waiting child just means the children have some medical condition, minor-major depending on what you’re open to) We were so excited. We then called Holt Tuesday, April 5^th to chat about timelines etc… What we were told was VERY discouraging. We were told they weren’t seeing very many girls, and based on our medical checklist, we would at least wait a year or more…and many never be matched. We were upset and felt like that door had just slammed shut in our face. We just “sat on” that information, trying to figure out which way to turn; back to foster care, no adoption at all

…and the Thursday I received an email from the WCP asking if we would look at the file of a baby girl that matched our profile!!! I was stunned!! Actually, I think that is a understatement. Mark was shocked, and completely “freaking out!” We reviewed the file, showed it to two doctors and after much discussion and prayer, we accepted the match!

What’s even more beautiful than this God-given surprise, is that Drew had been praying and had even fasted about our adoption. Guess what his prayer was? –that we wouldn’t have to wait. Now, God didn’t owe us a quick adoption. We don’t’ deserve his graciousness and excessive blessings, but I’m thrilled to be the recipient of them and I just can’t do anything but worship Him, because He knows my name, has saved my soul, and has been abundantly good to us. “Apart from Him I have no good thing.” -Psalm 16:2

Easter

2011-04-27T21:18:00.001-05:00

Addie woke up to an Easter basket with sunglasses, a ball, and some candy.

The boys and their baskets

Addie eating her M&Ms..she loves them!

My kiddos!

She was giggling as we took her picture

Addison and her Daddy.

My brother, Larissa, and their kids.

The kids and their cousins

Later that day, we had our annual Easter egg hunt. There is stiff competition for all those eggs.

The older boys were way too cool for the Easter egg hunt

Jack looking for eggs.

Addison found one too!

Addison was crawling to find eggs.

Lookin' for eggs.

Addison and her cousin Alyssa.

Sorting the loot.

The cousins and kids.

Corinne turns 4!!!

2011-04-24T10:36:00.001-05:00

Baby Airyn...10 months old
Drew, just hanging out.

It appears as though Nick is scared...but why?

Cornne loves her umbrella!! Thanks Grandma.

Cecelia wasn't in the mood to pose!

Corinne opening her soccer ball.

Jack & Addie

Little Dude...chillin' in his rocker.

My nieces...so cute.

Again...Cecelia was not posing well. Still cute though!

Big-girl Bed!!!

2011-04-13T20:37:00.002-05:00

Well, we took down the crib and set up Addie's big-girl bed.

(Which I bought a garage sale and re-painted!!!! Ya gotta love that!)
Here she is cheesin' in her bed.

She seems to love it! Lets hope she actually sleeps!

Drew & his sister.

Such a big girl!

Can you guess what we're doing?

2011-04-03T16:46:00.003-05:00

??? hummm....... ???

A year ago today...

2011-04-01T16:57:00.010-05:00

...we were given our beautiful daughter and she became ours for good! I was so overwhelmed with emotions; joy, grief, happiness, and fear.

April 1st, Seoul Korea. Addison with her wonderful foster mother.

Just left the arms of her foster mother and is on the way back to the hotel.

playing timidly at the hotel

April 2: arriving home....lots of people!

May 1st: she turns 1! The beautiful hanbok dress was a gift from her foster mother.

June - sporting a new dress (with chocolate ice cream on it)

The 4th of July

August - a gift from her foster mother!

September - at a football game

October - at the pumpkin patch

Trick-or-treating with her cousin Owem

November - sleeping soundly

December - getting our Christmas tree

We finalize!!! She is legally ours!!!

Christmas!

January - with gifts from her foster mother

February - in Daddy's shoes

March - at Great Wolf Lodge!!

My how quickly a year has gone. We are blessed beyond measure. To God be the glory.

Spring Break Fun!

2011-03-26T10:00:00.004-05:00

We took a few days to go up to the Great Wolf Lodge while the kids were off for spring break. They have an indoor waterpark and plenty of other kid-friendly activities. Here are some photos of our fun!
Nick with Addie in the hot tub.

Dad & Drew

Here is Addison going down one of the slides. She loved the slides and all the water! She would go up the stairs all by herself and then go down the slide alone too! She was so brave! (I was really impressed because last summer, she wasn't a big fan of the water and always had a death-grip on me!

Here are all the boys in the hot tub. We brought a cousin along so Nick would have another teenager to hang out with.

Here is little Addison! She absolutely loves having her picture taken.

Help Japan

2011-03-20T22:02:00.003-05:00

I was very moved by the devastation in Japan. I would love to jump on a flight and go serve food and help in a tangible, hands-on way, but that door is not open for me right now. I can however help in a small way. Samaritan's Purse, the organization that delivers Christmas shoe boxes all over the world, was on the ground in Japan shortly after the disaster. Here is a blip from their website about their relief efforts:

Samaritan's Purse has airlifted 93 tons emergency aid to Japan to be distributed by our disaster relief team working in the devastated coastal area around Sendai, the closest major city to the epicenter of the deadly earthquake and tsunami. The supplies arrived Saturday, and are scheduled to be transported to the affected area by U.S. military C-17 cargo planes Sunday.

Not only are the Japanese people obviously suffering, the tsunami hit one of the least evangelized area of the country, according to Samaritan's purse, so our prayer should be that people's hearts are opened as Believer's come to meet their immediate physical needs. I also pray that you might be inclined to give generously to help aid those suffering in Japan.

Click Here to go to the Samaratan's Purse website.

Click Here to see Fox News report over the work Samaratan's purse is doing in Japan.

Random Stuff

2011-03-10T20:53:00.004-06:00

MArk painted Addison's nails. (I think he did a very good job!!) She kept showing them to me all evening and then I would have to tell her how pretty they were. It was a fun game.

Addie's favorite pjs. She likes to make the frog sound.

That's a look!!!

Drew didn't want me to photograph him. I did it anyway.

Jack fractured his pinky right near the growth plate in his basketball game Saturday. Now has to wear a big 'ol splint for 3-4 weeks. No baseball for him for a while.

He was also thrilled to be photographed. :)

Hats

2011-02-28T19:59:00.003-06:00

HAT #1

Addie's new favorite things is to get the hat box, dump all of them out on the floor, and then try them all on. She will come and show us each hat. Tonight I took photos of her modeling all the various hats. She LOVES this!

HAT #2

HAT #3

HAT #4

HAT #5

HAT #6

HAT #7

HAT #8

HAT #9

All about daddy!

2011-02-16T17:28:00.005-06:00

Daddy loves his girl!

...and she loves him!!

Daddy's shoes are hard to wear!!

But she pulls it off perfectly!!!!

Sorry for the massive delay in posts...we haven't had much going and so I haven't taken many pictures!

Parent Child Dedication

2011-01-20T10:33:00.003-06:00

Our church had its parent & child dedication this last Sunday. We dedicated Addie. It is our prayer that she loves the Lord and grows up to be a woman after His heart.

Our family.

Daddy & his girl.

Our interesting family..

2011-01-15T17:32:00.005-06:00

Papa and Addie

My sister in law

My brohter in law

Us at an 80s party. Mark's cousin turned 30.

Here's Mark's cousin an his wife...all spiffy in their 80s clothes.

My brother and sister in law.

Marks other cousin. He doesn't get out much!! :)

Mark's aunt and uncle...they clearly never get out!

We got mail!!!!

2011-01-15T05:09:00.002-06:00

Addison's sweet foster mom sent us a care package!! We were so excited! She included a cute hat, mittens, and scarf for Addison, and also two Korean children's books. She also sent me little sock/slippers for my feet and all the boys got wool gloves. I've been trying to catch them to get a picture but they are always wearing them so I haven't gotten one yet. Mark says they are absolutely the warmest gloves he owns. He's worn them every day since he received them.

Here is Addison with one of her books. I have them put up on her dresser so they stay nice. I don't want her to rip them up. She just loves books!

Isn't that little wool mitten adorable?!

Thank you foster mom! We are so thankful for you! We really wish you lived much closer so we could visit you!

Christmas at the in-laws

2011-01-02T18:10:00.005-06:00

Addie and her cousin Owen

Drew got some new clothes.

Owen opening gifts.

Addies tearing up paper...her favorite part of Christmas

Karoline and Owen.

All the family.

All the grandkids.

The kids eating Christmas dinner.

Christmas at mom's

2011-01-02T17:45:00.006-06:00

Here's Airyn. He got a new hat!

Addie, taking it all in.

Jacker; Santa's helper

Michael: hummm..not sure what to say about this one! :)

Daddy and his little girl.

Corinne.

Cecelia.

Drew: Also Santa's helper.

Christmas

2010-12-25T10:56:00.005-06:00

All dressed up for Christmas Eve service.

Jack - Christmas Morning

Drew -opening his stocking

Addie didn't quite understand the concept of gifts. (...and she wasn't really awake yet)

She caught on, and woke up, rather fast!

She loved her microphone..and refused to put on clothes.

Here she is with her cute Christmas outfit and pigtails!

She loves her Daddy!

Jack is baptized

2010-12-13T20:11:00.003-06:00

Jack was baptized Sunday. I definitely got teary-eyed watching him.

My prayer has been and always will be that my children will love Jesus more than anything or person, so seeing my baby boy want to be baptize was better than anything else; any medal, any championship, any grade, anything...

The boys also had to sing in front of the church Sunday. They hate that, but I don't care. I love it and I make them sing every single year. You will see the true joy written all over their faces!!

I actually did catch a smile! Its a Christmas miracle!

Wrestling

2010-12-12T08:41:00.003-06:00

Jack decided he wanted to try wrestling this year. He had his first meet yesterday. Here are some photos from the day. He said he a great time. I personally don't understand this sport or how it could possibly be "fun," but ok...it must be a boy thing.

She's legally ours!!!!

2010-12-12T08:09:00.007-06:00

On Friday, December 10th Ha seon Yi legally became Addison Hope Ha-seon.

Here is the photo of us with the judge.
Here we are in the courtroom waiting for the judge.

Nick was video-ing Addison.

She was lovin' her Daddy.

Waiting outside the courtroom

Sweetness.

My boys & my daughter.

So cute.

All my kids.

Christmas Fun

2010-12-05T15:30:00.008-06:00

We go see Santa every year at a Christmas tree farm. There are horses there that pull big wagons. You can pet them...if you want....but clearly Corinne didn't want to.

As you can see, Cecelia didn't like the horses. (an understatement)

Addie was fine with them.

This is my nephew; Airyn.

Addison Hope Ha-Seon

My brother and his family.

My kids.

I really like this photo. Its so sweet.

Jack...telling Santa his list.

Drew...he's kinda done with the "Santa thing"

Addison...She's really done with the Santa thing!

This is as close as Cecelia would get to him. (She was really brave this day!! not really!)

Corinne...she would only stand close to Santa.

Little Airyn...he and Santa are buddies!

A few of my favorite things...

2010-12-04T06:21:00.005-06:00

This book is actually a commentary over the gospel of John. It is an easy read. Really, it is. I've read many commentaries, and this one reads easier than all of them and delves into the deep issues presented in this gospel. I realize reading a commentray isn't popular, but truly, it makes a great daily devotional. It breaks John into manageable parts and then explains each part clearly, and in a way that is easy to grasp. I recommend you give it a try. Click HERE to order or review.

This Advent calendar is easy and fun to use. The kids love opening up the flaps each day..even my 5th grader. (They fight over who gets to do it) And there is also a little guide that goes with each day. Its a very nice way to constantly refocus your kids on the real meaning of Christmas. (and its cheap!!!) Click HERE to order or get more information.

This is a great devotional I've started going through with my third and fifth graders. I really like it. It's simple to use and ties the Old Testament nicely with the New. I think it is a GREAT tool to help teach your kids the Bible. This particualr book will walk you through the entire Old Testment. Click Here to order or learn more.

Basketball

2010-12-02T19:48:00.004-06:00

Drew LOVES basketball. He's play it all year if he could.

Here are some shots of one of his games.

Talking with the team. He has such a great coach!