Thursday, April 18, 2013
I'm back to continue. Okay, where were we.....Oh yes, the lion zoo! The lion zoo was a place that had mostly lions, but there were some other animals too. Of course, we were more of a spectacle than the lions. So, we had a little group of followers. One boy tried to tell us the names of the animals and what they were called in Amharic. He was very nice, and I think he enjoyed hanging out with us. We learned that lion in Amharic is "ambasa". After that we continued and went to "the women who formerly carried wood". Here there were women who were weaving cloth or "shes" in Amharic. This facility was designed to give these women who formerly went up to the mountains and gathered wood an opportunity to support themselves and their families. This way it was safer for them, and they were earning money in the process. Therefore a better deal all around. We watched them weave for a little bit, and then went to the gift shop where they sold these "shes". Emmy, Mom, and I bought some, and then we were on our way.
Next we went to the Ethiopian Orthodox church. One of the men standing there took us in, led us around, and gave us a tour. It was really interesting and very historical!! Throughout this whole trip Emmy had still not been feeling well, so we decided we'd go get some dinner, and then go back to the hotel. We went to Island Breeze, and had pizza. It was very good, and very interesting to watch them cook it in their brick oven. Emmy was feeling really bad at this point and very often would get sick to her stomach. By the time dinner was over she was laying on the table....asleep. We went back to the guest house and she sent straight to bed. That was the end of day one!!
Day Two
This morning we were supposed to leave at seven to begin our journey to see the kids. So we got up around six fifteen, and began getting ready. We had to pack a whole new suitcase for tonight, because we were spending the night in Awash, where the kids were. Previously we had bought toys to take to all the kids at the orphanage, so we had all these to be packed too. We got everything ready as quickly as we could and were soon ready to go. We had a four hour drive to Awash, so we were prepared. We took our travel journals, a book each, the electronic devices, and a couple of travel friendly games. We were soon off, and were taking millions of pictures as we went. So we rode, and we rode, and we rode. We played some games, took some pictures, chatted....everything you can think of to do in the car, we did. So now, here I am, typing on a EXTREMELY dusty road. We are fifteen minutes away from them.
Now it's Thursday, and we just arrived back at the guest house. But that's not where we stopped, so I won't begin there. Yesterday we made it to Awash after what seemed like a day in the car, and checked into the guest house. Then we went and ate lunch, all in anticipation of three thirty. That was when we were supposed to meet them! Finally the time came around for us to go and meet them and we were ready! It was a ten minute drive, but it seemed like forever. When we arrived we were informed that there were twenty kids living at the orphanage, and eighteen of them would be playing with us in our slot of time which was an hour. The toys we had bought we got out and played with them. We had bubbles, a kite, paper, stickers, balls, and cars. We tried to space them out so we wouldn't run out of fun things to do. One of the boys got into our bag, and found one car, and took it out with the other kids. Soon we were being pestered with the word "makina". "Makinas, makinas!!" They said. We tried to figure out what they wanted, and then the social worker told us that meant car in Amharic, so out came the "makinas", and boy were they a big hit!! No one wanted to do anything but play with those "makinas"!! They loved them. Levi/Ashenafi was a very happy, content, and smiley boy. He was very small for his size, but he was a very kind and thoughtful boy. Evelyn/Shega was very kind and thoughtful. She was always willing to give up her fun to make sure that the littler ones had all they needed. She was very good at playing by herself. She was the only girl at the orphanage. All of the other girls had moved into the city recently. Lee/Atnafu was like a little old man. He preferred to shake hands rather than give high fives or pounds. He was also very thoughtful and helpful. Orin/Mirhiretu was a very quiet and playful boy. He liked to interact with others as he played, rather than play with himself. Overall they were all very patient and helpful with the little ones. They were willing to wait for a very long time to get their turn, or join in the games. They were also very beautiful, all of them! We were all very pleased with their social and interactive skills. None of them seemed to have any major problems, which proved our concerns wrong. When we returned to the guest house we ate dinner and just relaxed; it was good to have some time to just think. That concluded day two.
Day Three
This morning we had plans to go to a wildlife park on the way out of Awash, so we left at seven again. The park was very dry since they're in the middle of their summer, but it was good. We saw Oryx, Dick-Dicks, Gazelles, Guinea-Fowels, Baboons, and Hornbills. We saw a beautiful mountain landscape, and very pretty salt water falls. We searched the falls for any crocodiles, and had no luck until dad stumbled upon one. We were able to get very close to it, which means great pictures. It was a small one, but it was cool. Overall the park was very enjoyable. I'm glad we were able to go. Then we started our four hour journey home. It wasn't as bad as the first one because we were beginning to get used to the potholes, rocks, heat, no seatbelts, and dust. Dad and I even slept for a good portion of the ride. We made it back to Addis, and Mom and Dad had to go to the social workers office and watch a video about the kids lives with their mom before they came to the orphanage. I shall continue writing about our journey soon my friends!!
Aubrey for the Stinsons
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Our Journey So Far....
Wow!! I'm truly amazed at how far we have come....seems like just this morning we first got the call!! God's is so amazing, I don't even know where to begin!
Ahhhhh......the plane rides....I guess that's where we left off, and I'll begin there. So, picture this, a beautiful day, church in the morning, and three little boys. You see, these three little boys are my brothers, and they were so confused and nervous about what was to come. They knew JUST enough about the court date to know that something weird and strange was going to happen.....and they didn't like it. We came home from church, all the while with testy, scared boys, and showered, because we were not going to have a chance to shower until Tuesday evening. Ma Ju and Papa Larry were going to drive with us and the boys to the airport, and then take them to Bolivar. The grandparents and our aunt and uncle were going to take turns watching them while we were gone, and it just so happened that Aunt Kimmy and Uncle Jeremy, in Bolivar, got the first turn. We really had an EXTREMELY smooth time at the Springfield airport, so all too quickly it was time to say goodbye. We said our goodbyes, and continued onto the next leg of our journey, the first flight.
We picked up some dinner, and sat at our gate waiting to board the plane. On this flight, it would be me and Emmy sitting together, Dad by himself, and Mom and Graham in a whole different section of the plane. We were all in a good mood on this flight, so Emmy and I easily knowcked out some school. This flight was only and hour and twenty minutes, so it really didn't feel that bad at all. This flight from Springfield to Chicago passed quickly. In Chicago now, we patiently waited for an hour to board our plane. On this flight it was getting late, so we decided that we'd do just a little bit of school, but basically watch a part of a movie we had downloaded. This flight was also an hour and twenty minutes. This flight over, we were in Washington. Originally we had planned that since it was already midnight, we would just spend the night in the airport, but once we realized how long our layover was(from 12:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.), we figured we should get some decent sleep, so we decided to find a hotel. We did that pretty quickly, and God blessed us with a less than half the normal price rate. We just went straight to bed to get as much sleep as possible, to be ready for the next leg.
We took a shuttle to the airport and went through customs again, and waited. Now, this was to be the thirteen hour flight. We were trying not to think about how long it would be, so we were patient at the time. We boarded and were good, until about four hours into it. This is where it began getting long. Since we were going through many different time zones, the routine of the plane was designed to help us get used to Addis's time. So, we had a snack in place of lunch, dinner, and breakfast, and designated sleeping periods. On this flight we were positioned as so; Graham, Emmy, and I, and then Mom and Dad across the isle differennt place. It was finally time to sleep, and we got all comfy....or as comfy as you can get in between two people on a plane....Emmy fell asleep right away, and I was dozing for about an hour. When I woke up, Emmy was still asleep on top of me, and Graham was playing a game. Emmy woke up about thirty minutes later I think, and we tried to rearrange. Now, the way we were doing it was Graham was on the window side, I was in the middle, and Emmy was on the other side. The lucky people were the ones that had a whole row to themselves, and could lay down and stretch out. The man in the row directly behind us one of those lucky ones, and his knees were right behind my seat, so I couldn't lay my seat back. I tried to get comfortable, but Emmy and Graham were both really hiper, and not willing to go to sleep, so they just kept wiggling and moving around, so every time I was about to fall asleep they'd wake me up by moving around. I finaly asked emmy if I could switch her seats, so I could lay down and not be squished by two wriggling siblings!! Mom, Dad, and I ended up sleeping for most of the rest of the way. We made it, but I am so tired of planes....
Anyway, it was 7 A.M. here, and we were ready to get to the guest house, and just rest. So as we are going through and getting our passports checked, a girl probably about my age started following us. We didn't really pay much attention to her at the moment, because wehave to remember that we are the minority here, and we are the ones that stand out. There are not many whites here, other than the foreign visitors like us. But soon, as our last passport was getting checked she tried to take it from the lady that was checking them. Thankfully dad got it first, but then we knew she was trouble, and were keeping our eyes open. She continued to follow us, and tried to take some luggage from Mom, but mom just held on tighter and kept walking. Now, we were outside, and there were police watching, so she just kept asking for our passports and luggage, but we just ignored her. We finally found who we were looking for, and we left. Now the tiredness was really beginning to hit all of us, but especially Emmy and Graham, since they didn't really sleep all that much on the plane. We got the the guest house, and decided that we would leave at about one thirty to go sightseeing. But first, we were going to nap. We did that, and Mom, Dad, and I were ready, but...... Emmy and Graham were NOT!!!! Anyway, we were waiting for our driver to get here, and next thing we know, Graham and Emmy are both COMPLETELY out in the lobby sort of area. Now Emmy was beginning to feel bad while we waited, and woke up, went to the bathroom, and threw up, three times. It was bad, and we were debating whether or not we should go when they arrived. Emmy said she didn't want to ruin our fun, and that she was feeling a LITTLE bit better, so we went. We drove around a little to just see the people and what they were doing, and then we went to a lion zoo.
I must close for now, but I will continue with more later. Please pray for my sister to feel completely beter. Tomorrow is the day we meet the Fource.
Ahhhhh......the plane rides....I guess that's where we left off, and I'll begin there. So, picture this, a beautiful day, church in the morning, and three little boys. You see, these three little boys are my brothers, and they were so confused and nervous about what was to come. They knew JUST enough about the court date to know that something weird and strange was going to happen.....and they didn't like it. We came home from church, all the while with testy, scared boys, and showered, because we were not going to have a chance to shower until Tuesday evening. Ma Ju and Papa Larry were going to drive with us and the boys to the airport, and then take them to Bolivar. The grandparents and our aunt and uncle were going to take turns watching them while we were gone, and it just so happened that Aunt Kimmy and Uncle Jeremy, in Bolivar, got the first turn. We really had an EXTREMELY smooth time at the Springfield airport, so all too quickly it was time to say goodbye. We said our goodbyes, and continued onto the next leg of our journey, the first flight.
We picked up some dinner, and sat at our gate waiting to board the plane. On this flight, it would be me and Emmy sitting together, Dad by himself, and Mom and Graham in a whole different section of the plane. We were all in a good mood on this flight, so Emmy and I easily knowcked out some school. This flight was only and hour and twenty minutes, so it really didn't feel that bad at all. This flight from Springfield to Chicago passed quickly. In Chicago now, we patiently waited for an hour to board our plane. On this flight it was getting late, so we decided that we'd do just a little bit of school, but basically watch a part of a movie we had downloaded. This flight was also an hour and twenty minutes. This flight over, we were in Washington. Originally we had planned that since it was already midnight, we would just spend the night in the airport, but once we realized how long our layover was(from 12:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.), we figured we should get some decent sleep, so we decided to find a hotel. We did that pretty quickly, and God blessed us with a less than half the normal price rate. We just went straight to bed to get as much sleep as possible, to be ready for the next leg.
We took a shuttle to the airport and went through customs again, and waited. Now, this was to be the thirteen hour flight. We were trying not to think about how long it would be, so we were patient at the time. We boarded and were good, until about four hours into it. This is where it began getting long. Since we were going through many different time zones, the routine of the plane was designed to help us get used to Addis's time. So, we had a snack in place of lunch, dinner, and breakfast, and designated sleeping periods. On this flight we were positioned as so; Graham, Emmy, and I, and then Mom and Dad across the isle differennt place. It was finally time to sleep, and we got all comfy....or as comfy as you can get in between two people on a plane....Emmy fell asleep right away, and I was dozing for about an hour. When I woke up, Emmy was still asleep on top of me, and Graham was playing a game. Emmy woke up about thirty minutes later I think, and we tried to rearrange. Now, the way we were doing it was Graham was on the window side, I was in the middle, and Emmy was on the other side. The lucky people were the ones that had a whole row to themselves, and could lay down and stretch out. The man in the row directly behind us one of those lucky ones, and his knees were right behind my seat, so I couldn't lay my seat back. I tried to get comfortable, but Emmy and Graham were both really hiper, and not willing to go to sleep, so they just kept wiggling and moving around, so every time I was about to fall asleep they'd wake me up by moving around. I finaly asked emmy if I could switch her seats, so I could lay down and not be squished by two wriggling siblings!! Mom, Dad, and I ended up sleeping for most of the rest of the way. We made it, but I am so tired of planes....
Anyway, it was 7 A.M. here, and we were ready to get to the guest house, and just rest. So as we are going through and getting our passports checked, a girl probably about my age started following us. We didn't really pay much attention to her at the moment, because wehave to remember that we are the minority here, and we are the ones that stand out. There are not many whites here, other than the foreign visitors like us. But soon, as our last passport was getting checked she tried to take it from the lady that was checking them. Thankfully dad got it first, but then we knew she was trouble, and were keeping our eyes open. She continued to follow us, and tried to take some luggage from Mom, but mom just held on tighter and kept walking. Now, we were outside, and there were police watching, so she just kept asking for our passports and luggage, but we just ignored her. We finally found who we were looking for, and we left. Now the tiredness was really beginning to hit all of us, but especially Emmy and Graham, since they didn't really sleep all that much on the plane. We got the the guest house, and decided that we would leave at about one thirty to go sightseeing. But first, we were going to nap. We did that, and Mom, Dad, and I were ready, but...... Emmy and Graham were NOT!!!! Anyway, we were waiting for our driver to get here, and next thing we know, Graham and Emmy are both COMPLETELY out in the lobby sort of area. Now Emmy was beginning to feel bad while we waited, and woke up, went to the bathroom, and threw up, three times. It was bad, and we were debating whether or not we should go when they arrived. Emmy said she didn't want to ruin our fun, and that she was feeling a LITTLE bit better, so we went. We drove around a little to just see the people and what they were doing, and then we went to a lion zoo.
I must close for now, but I will continue with more later. Please pray for my sister to feel completely beter. Tomorrow is the day we meet the Fource.
Aubrey for the Stinsons
Saturday, April 13, 2013
The Journey
The journey begins. Most of us leave tomorrow-- by most of us I mean Matt, Chandra, Aubrey, Emmaline, Graham-- for our first trip to Ethiopia. During that trip we will travel to Ethiopia, visit the orphanage, meet the children, and make our court appearance.
We simply ask that you would pray for this trip as the Lord brings it to your mind.
Pray for long suffering... we are sleeping in the airport tomorrow night to save money.
Pray for flexibility... a schedule in Africa is not the same as a schedule here.
Pray for bonding...our first meeting with the children. We aren't allowed to tell them we are adopting them yet.
So, just simply pray and thank you for being willing to.
We simply ask that you would pray for this trip as the Lord brings it to your mind.
Pray for long suffering... we are sleeping in the airport tomorrow night to save money.
Pray for flexibility... a schedule in Africa is not the same as a schedule here.
Pray for bonding...our first meeting with the children. We aren't allowed to tell them we are adopting them yet.
So, just simply pray and thank you for being willing to.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sometimes waiting is the hardest part
It has been almost 3 months since our last udpate. So... what have we been doing but waiting...waiting... and more waiting.
Life has kept moving. School has continued. Work has continued. We have six children here whose lives have continued. Essentially life has continued to move along. Sometimes it has moved a little too fast. And yet, there is this expectant part of us that is waiting for the call or e-mail saying, "It's time". There is this hesitation every time we make plans, thinking, "Will we still be here?".
We are now waiting for the Ministry of Women's Affairs to give a letter to the court saying they approve the adoption. How long will this take? "It seems to be moving along a little quicker than a few months ago," is what we keep hearing. But what does that mean in REAL time. Nothing...
We have been anticipating, yet sometimes the anticipation gets old.
We have been preparing the rooms, yet sometimes to work is long.
We have been praying, yet sometimes the prayer seems stale.
Everyday we go through this similar routine. Anticipate, routine, anticipate, no response, work, pray, no response, wait...
It is interesting to me that as of yet, the fource doesn't even know we exist. I know, I know... it is best for the kids to be oblivious. But for almost 1 year we have been working towards bringing them here and they are not even aware that something big is going on behind the scenes. Their world is about to change... forever. Yet they know nothing.
It is this reality that we come face to face with from time to time that keeps this journey real. Life is about to change...forever. Although at times is seems like this is never going to happen; it is. God promises that His Will will be completed in His perfect timing. Timing that is perfect for us and for the Fource- and in the way that is perfect. Matthew 7:7-8 "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
One day we will get the call and we will be scrambling, quickly to pack and leave. And although that reality seems far off. There ARE 4 children on the other side of the world with no family. Waiting...
Life has kept moving. School has continued. Work has continued. We have six children here whose lives have continued. Essentially life has continued to move along. Sometimes it has moved a little too fast. And yet, there is this expectant part of us that is waiting for the call or e-mail saying, "It's time". There is this hesitation every time we make plans, thinking, "Will we still be here?".
We are now waiting for the Ministry of Women's Affairs to give a letter to the court saying they approve the adoption. How long will this take? "It seems to be moving along a little quicker than a few months ago," is what we keep hearing. But what does that mean in REAL time. Nothing...
We have been anticipating, yet sometimes the anticipation gets old.
We have been preparing the rooms, yet sometimes to work is long.
We have been praying, yet sometimes the prayer seems stale.
Everyday we go through this similar routine. Anticipate, routine, anticipate, no response, work, pray, no response, wait...
It is interesting to me that as of yet, the fource doesn't even know we exist. I know, I know... it is best for the kids to be oblivious. But for almost 1 year we have been working towards bringing them here and they are not even aware that something big is going on behind the scenes. Their world is about to change... forever. Yet they know nothing.
It is this reality that we come face to face with from time to time that keeps this journey real. Life is about to change...forever. Although at times is seems like this is never going to happen; it is. God promises that His Will will be completed in His perfect timing. Timing that is perfect for us and for the Fource- and in the way that is perfect. Matthew 7:7-8 "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
One day we will get the call and we will be scrambling, quickly to pack and leave. And although that reality seems far off. There ARE 4 children on the other side of the world with no family. Waiting...
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Final Adoption Fundraiser! :)
Friends, thank you so much for all that you've done for us!! We're so blessed by your generosity! This is God's story. He's planned everything, from the major things to the minor details, and we thank him for that!! As we've been preparing for the arrival of the "fource", we've been cleaning out the auction items that are left from "The Event". There is no minimum price, we're just asking you to make an offer. If you have any questions or would like to see a picture please don't hesitate to contact us! The deadline for all purchases is March 24th!
1. Kansas City Ballet Gift Certificate. Three free adult or teen classes at Kansas City Ballet School. Class options include ballet , tap, jazz, modern, flamenco, pilates, yoga, and more. Donated by Kansas City Ballet. Retail value $45.
2. Nail care gift bag which includes bottom coat, top coat, nail lacquer, and two hand lotions. Donated by Karen Claussen.
a. Steady as she rose. Retail value $20.
3. Three HVAC precision tune ups, professional cleanings, and combustion safety inspections. Donated by Rory Krueger from Krueger Geothermal Systems.
a. One tune up: Retail value $189.
b. One tune up: Retail value $189.
c. One tune up: Retail value $189.
4. Four adult admissions to Clay Cooper's Country Music Express, which entertains with singing, dancing, rope twirling, and hysterical comedy, and four adult admissions to Red, Hot, and Blue, a journey through the Big Band era of the 40's, Rocking 50's, eclectic 60's, disco 70's and an All American salute to Veterans, appearing at the Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson. Donated by Clay Cooper Theatre. Retail value $260.
5. Half-hour riding lesson with Tennessee Walking Horses at D & D Farms. Donated by David Davenport. Retail value $25.
6. One day guided fishing trip on Lake Granby, Colorado (near Winter Park). Expires 10-31-2013. Donated by Bernie Keefe, premier fishing guide. Retail value $575.
7. One voucher for Kansas City T-Bones Tickets good for four adult tickets to the Kansas City T-Bones baseball club. Donated by Kansas City T-Bone baseball club Monday-Wednesday home games. Retail value $26.
8. One copy of a set of 2 Christian instrumental CD's, which include piano hymns. Donated and performed by Louis Claussen. Retail value $24.
9. One insulated vacuum server (1 liter) coffee pot. Donated by Feller's Food Service. Retail value $50.
10. One blue squash book, a lovely fold up photo album. Donated by Michele Lindley. Retail value $12.
11. "The Bare Facts: 39 Questions Your Parents Hope You Never Ask About Sex" by Josh McDowell. Donated by Erin Davis. Retail value $10.99.
12. The Original Fashion Sports Watch by deuce brand. A clever and ergonomic design, this watch can be worn in a multitude of conditions from trend setting to contact sports. Waterproof, durable, and contains supreme functionality. Donated by deuce brand.
a. White-small(16 cm.). Retail value $20.
b. Clear-large(18 cm.). Retail value $20.
c. Blue-xlarge. Retail value $20.
13. Baby Roll Asleep. No need to drive your baby around in the car to fall asleep. Gently ease your baby to sleep in your home. Can also be used as a changing station or bath tub. Donated by Baby Roll Asleep. Retail value $79.95.
14. "Mallards, Final Approach" open edition framed print by Manning. Size: 29" x 25". Donated by Mark and Sandy Cunningham, Gallery Art Market/ Art Market Network. Retail value $95.
15. Salute to Heritage, artist John Fulton. John Fulton was known as a prolific painter of colorful balloons. John Fulton was alos the architect for the John Q Hammons enterprise. This painting is also #80 of 350, a limited edition. Donated by Allen & Michelle Lindley. Retail value $300.
16. "We are Loved" Short Sleeved T-Shirts $15 each.
Extra Large - 2
Large - 2
Medium - 1
Small - 3
Youth Large - 2
Aubrey and Louis for the Evergrowing Stinsons!! :)
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
May the fource be with Us!
The question we are hearing almost every day is, "When are the kids coming home?" (Slight diversion) First of all we call them the fource. The reason why is because some friends of our referred to them as the fource and it stuck. You see there are four of them and they will be coming in mass and will exert a certain amount of force on all of us. So we are now waiting on the Fource.
As I write this we are returning from St. Louis after being fingerprinted for the 3rd time by the United States Immigration Service. (This doesn't include our fingerprints that were taken by the Missouri State Highway Patrol or the Greene County Jail. It appears we may be the most fingerprinted couple in Greene County!)
Our paperwork is now in Ethiopia and waiting to be turned into a judge. When the government has all of the paperwork we will be issued a courtdate. We have been told the judge will set this date as soon as 1-2 weeks after receiving the paperwork. We have also been told that it might take 4 months before we travel. So... we wait.
Does this mean the fource will come home at that time? No, no, no, that would be way too simple. Our first trip will consist of meeting the children, going to court, saying we want to adopt them in front of a judge, and coming home without them.
After that guess what comes next? You got it... we wait. (Have you gotten the general trend of this process? Every step involves waiting.) The second trip will occur sometime between 1-4 months after the first trip. It will be taking the kids to the US Embassy and obtaining Visa's for them for the US. Then we will enjoy a nice leisurely 20 or so hours on a flight with the fource who by the way has never been on a plane. I apologize if this post sounds a little cynical but waiting does that to me.
All in all we are very excited and a little anxious. How will the fource change us and our little crew? How will communicate? What will they like to eat? And on and on the questions come into our minds.
But... God is bigger than our questions. So we wait... for the fource.
As I write this we are returning from St. Louis after being fingerprinted for the 3rd time by the United States Immigration Service. (This doesn't include our fingerprints that were taken by the Missouri State Highway Patrol or the Greene County Jail. It appears we may be the most fingerprinted couple in Greene County!)
Our paperwork is now in Ethiopia and waiting to be turned into a judge. When the government has all of the paperwork we will be issued a courtdate. We have been told the judge will set this date as soon as 1-2 weeks after receiving the paperwork. We have also been told that it might take 4 months before we travel. So... we wait.
Does this mean the fource will come home at that time? No, no, no, that would be way too simple. Our first trip will consist of meeting the children, going to court, saying we want to adopt them in front of a judge, and coming home without them.
After that guess what comes next? You got it... we wait. (Have you gotten the general trend of this process? Every step involves waiting.) The second trip will occur sometime between 1-4 months after the first trip. It will be taking the kids to the US Embassy and obtaining Visa's for them for the US. Then we will enjoy a nice leisurely 20 or so hours on a flight with the fource who by the way has never been on a plane. I apologize if this post sounds a little cynical but waiting does that to me.
All in all we are very excited and a little anxious. How will the fource change us and our little crew? How will communicate? What will they like to eat? And on and on the questions come into our minds.
But... God is bigger than our questions. So we wait... for the fource.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Auction!!!
What: We have been so blessed by all the donations that have been given for "The Event"! God has really been showing us His greatness! After "The Event" we had a few items left, and a few more have been donated, so we decided that we should have a second online auction. There are 26 items that we have decided to use to auction online.
When: Starting NOW, ending Friday, November 16th, at MIDNIGHT!!
Where: Right here on our blog.
Who: YOU and anyone else who you know. Please tell and forward this to EVERYONE you know!!
How: By commenting on this post, and keeping up on the latest bids! In the comment section of this post, list the number of the item you want to bid on, your bid, and your name (these comments are not viewable by anyone but us). November 17th we will notify the winners of each item.
3. Three passes for free tuition for Adult/Teen classes to Kansas City Ballet. Donated by Kansas City Ballet. Retail value of $135/ starting bid $20.
4. One pass for two admissions to Grand Country Music Hall to any show of your choice. Donated by Grand Country Music Hall. Retail Value of $60/ starting bid of $20. CURRENT BID: $20
5. One insulated vacuum server (1 liter) coffee pot. Donated by Feller's Food Service. Retail value $50/ starting bid $15.
6. Four adult admissions to Clay Cooper's Country Music Express, which entertains with singing, dancing, rope twirling, and hysterical comedy, AND four adult admissions to Red, Hot, and Blue, a journey through the Big Band era of the 40's, Rocking 50's, eclectic 60's, disco 70's and an All American salute to Veterans, appearing at the Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson. Donated by Clay Cooper Theatre. Retail value $260/ starting bid $60.
7. One Half-hour riding lesson with Tennessee Walking Horses at D & D Farms. Donated by David Davenport. Retail value $25/ starting bid $7.
8. One two hour photo session with Amy Holand. Specializes in weddings, children, babies, and HS seniors. Donated by Amy Holand Photography, www.amyholandphotography.com. Retail value $200/ starting bid $60.
9. One Mary Kay gift basket which includes black mascara, lava nail lacquer, oil absorbing tissues, eye primer, hazelnut eye color, and eye applicators. Donated by Janna Scillian, a Mary Kay consultant. Retail value $50/ starting bid $15. CURRENT BID: $15
10. One day guided fishing trip on Lake Granby, Colorado (near Winter Park). Expires 10-31-2013. Donated by Bernie Keefe, premier fishing guide. Retail value $575/ starting bid $150.
11. One blue squash book, a lovely fold up photo album. Donated by Michele Lindley. Retail value $12/ starting bid $6.
12. "The Bare Facts: 39 Questions Your Parents Hope You Never Ask About Sex" by Josh McDowell. Donated by Erin Davis. Retail value $10.99/ starting bid $3.
13. Arbor skateboard wheels, Decals, and 2012 catalog. A slightly smaller lipped wheel designed to offer traction and excellent slide characteristics for the smaller boards. Donated by Arbor Skateboards. Retail value $44.95/ starting bid $15.
14. One hair care gift bag which includes "American CREW" Men's shampoo and styling gel. Donated by Karen Claussen. Retail value $63/ starting bid $20. CURRENT BID: $20
15. One Enterprise Park Lanes gift card for a free party pack which includes shoe rental, medium sodas, and 2 games of bowling for up to 10 people and 10 free game cards. Donated by Enterprise Park Lanes-Keegan Martin. Retail value $140/ starting bid $35. CURRENT BID: $35
16. One voucher for Kansas City T-Bones Tickets good for four adult tickets to the Kansas City T-Bones baseball club. Donated by Kansas City T-Bone baseball club. Retail value $26/ starting bid $12.
17. The Original Fashion Sports Watch by deuce brand. A clever and ergonomic design, this watch can be worn in a multitude of conditions from trend setting to contact sports. Waterproof, durable, and contains supreme functionality. Donated by deuce brand.
Let the bidding begin!!!
When: Starting NOW, ending Friday, November 16th, at MIDNIGHT!!
Where: Right here on our blog.
Who: YOU and anyone else who you know. Please tell and forward this to EVERYONE you know!!
How: By commenting on this post, and keeping up on the latest bids! In the comment section of this post, list the number of the item you want to bid on, your bid, and your name (these comments are not viewable by anyone but us). November 17th we will notify the winners of each item.
Go!!
"The Event" Auction Items
1. Three HVAC precision tune ups, professional cleaning, and combustion safety inspection. Donated by Rory Krueger from Krueger Geothermal Systems. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
a. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
b. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
c. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
a. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
b. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
c. One HVAC precision tune up. Retail value $189/ starting bid $50.
2. One copy of a set of 2 Christian instrumental CD's, which include piano hymns. Donated and performed by Louis Claussen. Retail value $24/ starting bid $8.
3. Three passes for free tuition for Adult/Teen classes to Kansas City Ballet. Donated by Kansas City Ballet. Retail value of $135/ starting bid $20.
4. One pass for two admissions to Grand Country Music Hall to any show of your choice. Donated by Grand Country Music Hall. Retail Value of $60/ starting bid of $20. CURRENT BID: $20
5. One insulated vacuum server (1 liter) coffee pot. Donated by Feller's Food Service. Retail value $50/ starting bid $15.
6. Four adult admissions to Clay Cooper's Country Music Express, which entertains with singing, dancing, rope twirling, and hysterical comedy, AND four adult admissions to Red, Hot, and Blue, a journey through the Big Band era of the 40's, Rocking 50's, eclectic 60's, disco 70's and an All American salute to Veterans, appearing at the Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson. Donated by Clay Cooper Theatre. Retail value $260/ starting bid $60.
7. One Half-hour riding lesson with Tennessee Walking Horses at D & D Farms. Donated by David Davenport. Retail value $25/ starting bid $7.
8. One two hour photo session with Amy Holand. Specializes in weddings, children, babies, and HS seniors. Donated by Amy Holand Photography, www.amyholandphotography.com. Retail value $200/ starting bid $60.
9. One Mary Kay gift basket which includes black mascara, lava nail lacquer, oil absorbing tissues, eye primer, hazelnut eye color, and eye applicators. Donated by Janna Scillian, a Mary Kay consultant. Retail value $50/ starting bid $15. CURRENT BID: $15
10. One day guided fishing trip on Lake Granby, Colorado (near Winter Park). Expires 10-31-2013. Donated by Bernie Keefe, premier fishing guide. Retail value $575/ starting bid $150.
11. One blue squash book, a lovely fold up photo album. Donated by Michele Lindley. Retail value $12/ starting bid $6.
12. "The Bare Facts: 39 Questions Your Parents Hope You Never Ask About Sex" by Josh McDowell. Donated by Erin Davis. Retail value $10.99/ starting bid $3.
13. Arbor skateboard wheels, Decals, and 2012 catalog. A slightly smaller lipped wheel designed to offer traction and excellent slide characteristics for the smaller boards. Donated by Arbor Skateboards. Retail value $44.95/ starting bid $15.
14. One hair care gift bag which includes "American CREW" Men's shampoo and styling gel. Donated by Karen Claussen. Retail value $63/ starting bid $20. CURRENT BID: $20
15. One Enterprise Park Lanes gift card for a free party pack which includes shoe rental, medium sodas, and 2 games of bowling for up to 10 people and 10 free game cards. Donated by Enterprise Park Lanes-Keegan Martin. Retail value $140/ starting bid $35. CURRENT BID: $35
16. One voucher for Kansas City T-Bones Tickets good for four adult tickets to the Kansas City T-Bones baseball club. Donated by Kansas City T-Bone baseball club. Retail value $26/ starting bid $12.
17. The Original Fashion Sports Watch by deuce brand. A clever and ergonomic design, this watch can be worn in a multitude of conditions from trend setting to contact sports. Waterproof, durable, and contains supreme functionality. Donated by deuce brand.
a. White-small(16 cm.). Retail value $20/ starting bid $6.
d. Clear-large(18 cm.). Retail value $20/ starting bid $6. CURRENT BID: $10
e. Clear-large(18 cm.). Retail value $20/ starting bid $6.
i. Blue-xlarge. Retail value $20/ starting bid $6.
18. "Mallards, Final Approach" open edition framed print by Manning. Size: 29" x 25". Donated by Mark and Sandy Cunningham, Gallery Art Market/Art Market Network. Retail value $95/ starting bid $30.
19. "Salute to Heritage", artist John Fulton. John Fulton was known as a prolific painter of colorful balloons. John Fulton was alos the architect for the John Q Hammons enterprise. This painting is also #80 of 350, a limited edition. Donated by Allen & Michelle Lindley. Retail value $300/starting bid $100.
20.
One Baby Roll Asleep. No need to drive your baby around in the car to fall asleep, gently ease your baby to sleep in your home. Can also be used as a changing station or bath tub. Donated by Baby Roll Asleep. Retail value $79.95/ starting bid $25.
21.
One small, round kitchen table with walnut table top and antiqued cream pedestal (48" diameter). Donated by Stellar Staging & Design-Kim Scowden & Ashley Shrimpton. Retail value $175/ starting bid $95. CURRENT BID: $95
22.
One nail care gift bag which includes bottom coat, top coat, nail lacquer: Steady as she rose, and two hand lotions: Coconut Melon and Grapefruit. Donated by Karen Claussen. Retail value $20/ starting bid $7.
23.
One hair care gift bag which includes "MATRIX BIOLACE" Ladies' shampoo (10oz and travel size), conditioner (5.1 oz and travel size), 5 styling products, and styling brush. Donated by Karen Claussen. Retail value $63/ starting bid $20. CURRENT BID: $25
24. One extra-large Nike First Things First silver golf shirt. Donated by Randall Young. Retail value $50/ starting bid $15.
25. One Signed Kurt Warner matted 13x16 2009 super bowl picture. Donated by Randall Young. Retail value $200/ starting bid $75. CURRENT BID: $75
26. Two tickets to the Rams vs. Vikings game on December 16th at noon. Prior to the start of the game there will be a brunch in the Edward Jones Dome, with the Rams Club. Donated by Randall Young. Retail value $350/ starting bid $100.
Let the bidding begin!!!
Aubrey for the Evergrowing Stinsons!
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