Good News

Today we signed the independent adoption agreement for Galina. It felt like forever since we have had her since mid December, but it is done and now we begin the thirty day wait in which her previous family can change their mind. Not that I think that will happen, but I wanted to share the adoption process that we are going through. Meanwhile, I get to try and figure out which courthouse to file our petition in and then we get to begin another state home study. It will be nothing short of miracle if we finalize this year. But it could happen. The good news-- whether or not we finalize this year, Galina will be with us.

Speaking of miracles, I got to witness two this week. Praise God for my precious friend's good news from her doctor. Hearing her upbeat voice today was such an encouragement! Not only did she get good news from her doctor, but she also got great news from her daughter who declared that she does want to be adopted by them! I am blessed to call this family part of our close circle of friends. We love you B and C!

In the midst of all this great news, I am sad to report that I think our family is sick. Not only has the sniffles been running its course through the kids, but I am head-achy and tired... and irritable. Yuck. Oh well-- I guess it wasn't really possible to go a whole season without getting sick. ;)

The week is not going as smooth as I had hoped it would. When some of the kids have home school and the others don't-- it sure makes for an interesting and loud day. Throw in a clogged overflowing toilet and you have one unhappy Mom. Ear plugs anyone??

Thankfully, my women's getaway is coming up in April. This time we are heading over to the Santa Barbara area-- and I can't wait. These women are just such a blessing to be around, I am looking forward to getting to know them even better! I didn't realize until we moved just how much I love these women. The most incredible thing is that we can go months and months without talking and then get together and pick up right where we left off. It helps to have a supportive husband and encouraging children who love to see a rejuvenated Mom!

I am encouraged to share that things with my daughters are doing so much better. The boy thing has died down in a good way-- I am really impressed with my one daughter. I should have never underestimated her ability to do the right thing. Not that things are perfect, but the fact that we can talk and have the sun go down with us having worked things out-- well that is one huge blessing. Galina is slowly beginning to open up to me thanks to Rachel encouraging her to come to me instead of just talking to her. Thanks Rachel for being such an understanding sister.

Julia and Adam "auditioned" for the worship team at church. Yes, I think we have found our home church-- which feels nice. We are slowly getting plugged in and guess what?? John and I offered to open up our home for a small group like we were a part of at our old church. For me, this is totally out of my comfort zone-- but I am just going to trust God on this one. What if nobody comes? Had we not told the pastor, I think I would've found every excuse to keep putting it off. But hey-- what do we have to lose?? And look at all we have to gain!