Adoption Update - July 25th

When we last touched base with our Adoption Specialist, the word was our home study would be complete around July 23rd. So far, we haven't heard an additional update, but Leslie and I are both hopeful that it will be complete this week. As I have mentioned in previous posts, the completed home study feels like a milestone, an acheivement.

We should not be looking at this journey in the form of achieving milestones. I imagine that taking that approach will shift focus from the process itself. Dave preached in church on Sunday and his sermon was about achievement versus attentiveness. He challenged us to focus on being attentive (at home, at work, running errands) and not to focus on achievement. He used the story of Mary and Martha to contrast the difference.

My challenge then becomes how to I act more like Mary (who was in the moment with Jesus) and less like Martha (who was fixated on completing her chores)? That is tough in this process. Being achievement minded gives you some sense of control. And that "control" is something you cling too with all your might, especially when so much of the adoption is up to other people, organizations and governments.

So, prayers for continues patience and strength to be attentive. Prayers for the leaders in Haiti. And prayers for the kids at the orphanage (God's Littlest Angels).

3-2-1 Blast Off

We launched model rockets last night. It was "awesome". That was what Eli said all night and continued on into the morning. It really was fun. The kids each built their own rocket that I helped with. And of course I had to build one for myself. It was as much fun as I remember as a kid.

The Rocketeers

It reminded me of my first launch as a kid. I remember Gunga and Apopps being there. So, Mom and Dad laid out a blanket. There might have even been some picnic food. We got everything all set up for the launch. We didn't know what to expect, but we weren't prepared for how quick the rocket left the launch pad. I think everyone expected a slow lift off like the Space Shuttle.

Well, I did the count down, hit the launch button and the rocket took off with a ppfffsssstttt. Right into the sky. We also miscalculated the wind. So, when the chute deployed, the chase was on. I had to run and run and run to chase that thing down. By the time I got back to the family the car was packed. What a memory.

Eli's Bandito

Katie's Viking

Brad's Hi Flier