The Road Less Travelled

Miscellany Tuesday!

2012-01-17T09:23:00.001-05:00

No Misc. Monday in honor of Dr. King - so today will be Misc. Tuesday instead. :) Yep catchy I know.

My baby daughter is obsessed with food. She eats more then me. Always. The other night during her prayer she said "Thank you for food eat it. Annnnnd.....thank you for eating bodies." Now I'm not quite sure where that last part came from. We don't eat bodies around here. Ever. I'm thinking she meant "Bless it to our bodies" but then again....who knows.

My 14 year old daughter informed her dad and I that some kid at school wanted to go out with her. This isn't the first time but each time I get a little nervous because my kid isn't exactly gracious to these young beaus. This poor lad didn't know what he was up against. I think his final futile attempt at winning her heart came when he told her she was beautiful. Her response? "I know. Thank you". I died. I told my husband at least we know he's doing his job at filling her love tank.

This past weekend my husband brewed his own beer in our garage. I guess the booze must now "rest" in perfectly controlled temps. My room that used to be a tranquil love nest now resembles an old musty bar with 47 beers on tap. He says it will be worth it in the end. If only I drank lots of beer. Maybe he needs to become a wine master.

Silas is home sick. I'm not sure if he's really sick or he just didn't want to school. Either way he's all cozied up in his bed sleeping so we're going with sick.

This is short but sweet - I'm off to the back cracker - check back tomorrow - my T-shirt closet was purged last night so I'll be listing my offerings tomorrow in an effort to clean things out and raise some funds for Africa!

Ciao!

In Honor of Dr. King

2012-01-16T12:02:00.000-05:00

Today is Martin Luther King Jr Day. I'll admit years ago I didn't have the depth of understanding of this day like I do now. Having experienced racism on a personal level because we chose to adopt cross culturally I have a new appreciation for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the message he fought to get across. The change he was trying to make in society. For people. For human beings. I'm grateful for his boldness, for the stand that he took, for the message he proclaimed.

As a white American I will never ever understand what it feels like to be black. I have as close of an understanding of what prejudice feels like because I am the mother of two black children and we've experienced it. Yet I will still never know what it feels like to be black in a white family. As we raise our children to love Jesus and that God loves us all equally and we are made in His image, HE is our defender, He is the one who matters and it is the bloodline of Jesus that is ours.

There is still the reality that we are raising a little black girl and a little black boy and the color of their skin matters to the outside world. I don't remember where I read it but the writers point was that to ignore what is so visible to everyone else is a bigger disservice then to acknowledge it. While my identity is in Christ, every one of my children's identity is in Christ we cannot ignore racism, we cannot ignore that we are a multi cultural family, and we cannot ignore that someday my black little boy and my black little girl will grow up to be a black man and a black woman MUST be a reality as David and I navigate parenting them. We must fight against racism, we need to educate others, challenge them, ask questions, and most of all point them to the cross. Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe.

Today we will watch a documentary on Dr. King with our children, we'll talk about His stand, his speech, and the difference he's made in the world.

Because of his boldness we have come SO far as a nation. We still have so far to go. Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Dr. King, in honor of him today.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. - MLK

Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase. - MLK

He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it. - MLK

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. - MLK

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made straight and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together. - MLK

AMEN and AMEN!
Check out my post on this same topic from last year.
http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2011/01/in-honor-of-dr-king-and-his-dream.html

Reckless Abandon T-Shirt Pre-Order! LAST DAY!!!

2012-01-15T17:14:00.002-05:00

This is it! Last call for pre-orders - I'm not ordering any extras!

I'll be placing the pre-order on Monday the 16th to ensure that the shirts are here and shipped before we leave for Africa in February!

We have T-Shirts and Sweatshirts available! Gray with yellow or crimson and Navy with yellow. Mens or Womens unisex. We are also offering hooded sweatshirts - super soft and comfy.

Email me with any questions - order information is on the right side of the blog. THANK YOU for your support!

T-Shirt Pre-Order FINAL WEEKEND!!!

2012-01-14T23:20:00.000-05:00

This is it! I'm placing the order on Monday morning! All proceeds go towards Skylers trip to Africa.

I'm placing the pre-order on Monday the 16th to ensure that the shirts are here and shipped before we leave for Africa in February!

We have T-Shirts and Sweatshirts available! Gray with yellow or crimson and Navy with yellow. Mens or Womens unisex. We are also offering hooded sweatshirts - super soft and comfy.

Email me with any questions - order information is on the right side of the blog. THANK YOU for your support!

Final Day of $12/12 People/12 Days!

2012-01-12T08:55:00.001-05:00

This is it! The final day of our 12 Day campaign to raise the funds to send Skyler to Africa! INCREDIBLY AMAZING to see God at work through each of you. THANK YOU!

Skyler is now just $300 away from his goal!

There's just THREE days left to pre-order T-shirts!

Last chance!!! I'm placing the pre-order on the morning of January 16th to ensure that the shirts are here and shipped before we leave for Africa in February!

We have T-Shirts and Sweatshirts available! Gray with yellow or crimson and Navy with yellow. Mens or Womens unisex or fitted. We are also offering hooded sweatshirts - super soft and comfy.

T-shirts are $25 shipped and Sweatshirts are $40 shipped. Order information is on he right side of my blog.
Thank you for your support!

We have about 35 cookie cutters left, if we sell every last one Skyler will be at his goal. I'm excited to post pictures of our cookie making coming up this week. We'll be doing Africa Valentine cookies!!! It'll be so cute! Order your cookie cutter today, make cute cookies, and help send Skyler to Africa! Its a win win!

If you don't need a cookie cutter you can be one of his 12 or buy a Ugandan Beaded necklace!

Order information is below or on the right side of the blog!

Aren't these cute? I'm not sure who made them but I saved the picture because I loved them so much!

We covet your prayers as we prepare for this trip, we're so excited to be able to go. To serve and to love on the precious children and families in Ethiopia.

To God Be The Glory!!!

Cookie Cutters & Beaded Necklaces!

2012-01-11T19:52:00.000-05:00

This week is FLYING by!! I can't believe its already Wednesday, so much to do so little time!

We're in the final 36 hours of Skylers final fund raising blast of 12 people/$12/ 12 Days. We only have $350 left to raise! AMAZING!!!!! We are SO grateful to all of YOU for your support!

We have about 40 cookie cutters left, if we sell every last one he'll be at his goal. I'm excited to post pictures of our cookie making coming up this week. We'll be doing Africa Valentine cookies!!! It'll be so cute! Order your cookie cutter today, make cute cookies, and help send Skyler to Africa! Its a win win! If you don't need a cookie cutter you can be one of his 12 or buy a Ugandan Beaded necklace!

Order information is below or on the right side of the blog!

Aren't these cute? I'm not sure who made them but I saved the picture because I loved them so much!

We covet your prayers as we prepare for this trip, we're so excited to be able to go. To serve and to love on the precious children and families in Ethiopia.

Don't forget to check our T-Shirt Preorders too! We're only taking pre-orders until January 15th!

http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2012/01/t-shirt-pre-sale-ends-soon.html

Africa Cookie Cutters & T-Shirt Pre-Orders

2012-01-10T10:30:00.004-05:00

Happy Tuesday!!!

We've been busy around here with crazy life stuff and some weird stomach bug. Fun times I tell you. Getting back into the groove of school after a 3 week break is no easy task!

PLUS we leave for Africa in just 5 weeks! CRAZY!

We're in the 10th day of Skylers final fund raising blast of 12 people/$12/ 12 Days. So far he's about 3/4 of the way to his goal which is AWESOME! THANK YOU all for your support!

We have about 50 cookie cutters left, if we sell every last one he'll be at his goal. I'm excited to post pictures of our cookie making coming up this week. We'll be doing Africa Valentine cookies!!! It'll be so cute! Order your cookie cutter today, make cute cookies, and help send Skyler to Africa! Its a win win! If you don't need a cookie cutter you can be one of his 12 or buy a Ugandan Beaded necklace!

Order information is below or on the right side of the blog!

Aren't these cute? I'm not sure who made them but I saved the picture because I loved them so much!

We covet your prayers as we prepare for this trip, we're so excited to be able to go. To serve and to love on the precious children and families in Ethiopia.

Don't forget to check our T-Shirt Preorders too! We're only taking pre-orders until January 15th!

http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2012/01/t-shirt-pre-sale-ends-soon.html

Weekend Sale!!

2012-01-07T13:15:00.001-05:00

Alrighty we're over 1/2 way through the $12/12 people/12 days push. We're over 1/2 way to the fund raising goal! This is GOOD!!!

In celebration we're having a Hat and T-shirt sale!

The shirts pictured below - I only have size Small left in womens. I also have a handful of mens shirts - Size L and XL in olive and royal blue.

Uganda Beaded Necklaces AGAIN!

2012-01-06T11:51:00.000-05:00

They're back!

I'm trying to clear out my stash while raising funds for Skylers trip as well. I have a couple different kinds. Long, short, and triple strand. I also have a handful of the super long 147 Uganda beads that were leftover from our adoption fund raising. I've updated the button on the right side of my blog to reflect these and taken some new pictures as well. Here goes! Stay tuned for the remaining WHERE YOU LIVE T's I've got left as well!

Uganda Beaded Necklace - long length - multi - $15
Uganda Beaded Necklace - short length - $10
Uganda - Triple strand - $15
147 Uganda beaded super long necklaces - $20
Shipping - $2.50

I'm shipping out the last batch of cookie cutter/T-shirt orders today as well! Email me if you have any questions!

Moments In Target.

2012-01-04T16:29:00.000-05:00

Last night my husband made a trip to Target to return a rug I didn't like. (yep I'm picky) He also had to replace a fan for the girls because theirs broke and our sweet angels can't sleep without one. (I blame my husband for this)

The idea was that this would be a "quick trip" but instead it took two hours. Not kidding.

The rug - well I couldn't find the receipt but thank goodness they track my every purchase via my debit card. (some what creepy that they know I had a 1000 items purchased in the last year)

Oh and that fan? Well it was marked $34.99. The ONLY fan in the whole store according to my husband. Yes the state of Florida is in freak out mode and since hitting 60 degrees they've replaced all fans with space heaters. True story.

Back to the fan. Marked $34.99 but at the register it rings up at $52. My husband nearly choked and kindly said the price was incorrect. The young man asked the correct price but when told he said he couldn't sell it at that price. Perplexed my husband asked for a price check. They verified that the price was indeed $34.99 but they couldn't sell it to him for that. Yes this is the part of the story that made me a little cranky. What do you mean you can't sell it for the price listed? Nope the price on the register is too much higher then the listed price so I can't over ride it. My husband is much more patient then me. He's also more patient then the woman next to him who was attempting to buy the last two fans she'd found and having the same issue. She was a heap of tears and security had been called to calm her. Not kidding.

A manager was called. 45 minutes later Target finally decided to sell the item for the price they listed. I felt the need to impart wisdom and a few pricing laws on Target corporate. My husband needed a beer.

Oh and if you weren't looking for a story about Target but instead wanted to check in on Skylers T-shirt and cookie cutter sales go here:
http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2012/01/t-shirt-pre-sale-ends-soon.html

He's pluggin along! We just need 5 more people to donate $12, buy a T or cookie cutter to hit todays goal! THANK YOU!!

T-Shirt Pre-Sale Ends Soon!

2012-01-03T08:39:00.000-05:00

A quick update on Skylers 12 people/$12/12 Days/2012 - He only needs 70 more people!!! That's less then 7 people each day for the next 11 days! THANK YOU all SO much for your support!

Now more info on T-shirts! :)

Last chance!!! I'm placing the pre-order on the 15th of January to ensure that the shirts are here and shipped before we leave for Africa in February!

We have T-Shirts and Sweatshirts available! Gray with yellow or crimson and Navy with yellow. Mens or Womens unisex or fitted. We are also offering hooded sweatshirts - super soft and comfy.

T-shirts are $25 shipped and Sweatshirts are $40 shipped. Order information is on he right side of my blog. Thank you for your support!

12 people. $12. 12 Days. 2012.

2012-01-02T12:08:00.001-05:00

We're getting down to the wire with Skylers last bit of fund raising. He's been busy helping with yard sales, listing things on Craigslist, packaging T-shirts and cookie cutters, etc. We're getting close! In order to finish him out we're starting a 12 in 2012 campaign.

The idea is simple. 12 people. $12. 12 days. Essentially is 144 people give $12 he'll be funded. Actually some have already given so we're already part way there. I read recently about micro giving and I love the idea. If many people give small amounts it adds up to bigger amounts and funds others helping others. One of our family goals for 2012 is to give more, love more, share more. Even if you can't give $12 ANYTHING helps.

Taking our 13 year old son to Africa is an incredible blessing. We can't wait to introduce him to the people, the culture, the joy, the pain, we're praying this experience WRECKS him in a GOOD way.

Will you be one of Skylers 12 today?

If you'd rather pre-order a T-Shirt that will also count towards his 12 too!

OR how about an Africa cookie cutter?

Order information is on the right side of my blog.

If you'd like a tax-deductible option you can donate here: http://lifebridgechurchpinellas.com/give (just be sure to specify "Reckless Abandon - Skyler Shubin" in the notes)

For T-shirt pre-order info check out this post: http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2011/12/reckless-abandon-2012-and-t-shirt.html

To see info about the cookie cutters read this post: http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com/2011/11/africa-cookie-cutter-beaded-necklaces.html

Can't donate? Will you consider sharing this blog? Reposting to spread the word? Above all will you pray for us?! We are so grateful. Thank you!!

Post Christmas Travel Words of Wisdom.

2012-01-01T17:49:00.000-05:00

Traveling from Florida to Oregon and back with seven people was quite the adventure. Having a little girl who hasn't been on a plane since we brought her home from Ethiopia was FUN. All of that said we learned MUCH. Here's a few tips.

1. Don't try and pack everything in a carry on. Pay the $20 for the checked luggage and move on. It'll be worth it. Unless of course you want to watch your 7 year old play dodge the people as he RUNS with his rolling suitcase through the airport.

2. Airplane lavatories are too small for an adult and a 5 year old. Nuff said.

3. If you're a germaphob like me the above scenario might be enough to activate the sensitive gag reflex.

4. Don't let your independent 5 year old pack her own bag for the plane. You never know what kinds of small unnecessary things will show up. The same goes for your seven year old or you might have a whole lotta sugar added to the mix in the form of hoarded school treats!

5. Something that does work: Pairing up kids with partners. Worked like a charm. An older with a little one. I love having big kids with little kids!

6. Bring snacks. For the love of all things good and holy the kids are BOUND to be STARVING the minute you board that plane. Snacks were a life saver. Especially since those airlines are so stingy, even with things like water!

7. This is probably the last trip we'll get away with renting a minivan. With all of our stuff and peoples we've outgrown it. I think David secretly rejoices. He hated that thing even if it was only temporary. The minivans only saving grace is the STEAL of a deal I got on renting it. :)

8. When did it become so normal to bring your dog on the plane? Most of you know I'm not a "pet" person. I'm just not. I'm a kid person. :) Every. Single. Flight. Dogs. LOTS of dogs. Dogs under the seat, dogs in the lap, dogs in a cage. Even a cat! Seriously?

9. Air pressure. Bring gum for your child. Oh and make sure you know where it is and its easily accessible.

10. Passing gas. Okay I know this one may shock you. I don't talk about bodily functions on my blog. I just don't. But this one has to be mentioned. Please remind your children that passing gas on an airplane is not pleasant for those around you. I wish I could tell you that my precious angels would never do that but I can't. I forgot to remind my 7 year old about his manners prior to boarding the plane. I'm so sorry passengers on flight #1242.

And with that............

Happy New Year!!!

Merry CHRISTmas!

2011-12-24T07:53:00.002-05:00

To all of our family and friends we are so grateful for each one of you. This has been a year of incredible blessings, change, beauty, joy, and pain. Through each and every life experience we grow and learn. We praise our God and King for His faithfulness, love, and grace.

We celebrate the birth of our King Jesus this CHRISTmas.

From our family to yours........

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

ET Air BOGO SALE Q&A

2011-12-19T05:51:00.001-05:00

Its BACK!! Ethiopian Air is offering their BOGO sale again! Celebrating the official joining of the Star Alliance which is fantastic news for those collecting miles!

I started doing pre-bookings over the weekend and now the sale is in full swing! I've had a TON of questions so I thought I would do a little Q&A here in an effort to best serve you and to be as efficient with my time as possible I hope this helps. Check it out below.

If this sale is anything like the last one space goes QUICK and I get swamped with multiple requests.

1. Can I cancel my tickets I just booked and get the BOGO? Yes, as long as you have refundable tickets and your travel begins and ends between Feb 1 and March 30.

2. Can I book an adult and a child on the same deal? Yes, you can as long as you are departing at the same time and plan to travel together the entire trip.

3. Can I guess dates and book them but plan to change them later? Yes. However this may not be cost effective for you if you have to do a change, you're looking at a minimum of $600 in change fees. If you are anticipating an embassy appt you could choose dates and just plan to go no matter what on those dates.

4. What is the change fee? The change fee is $300 per person plus any fare difference.

5. What are the restrictions? There are three main ones. a. You MUST book your tickets between December 19th and December 23rd. b. You MUST travel between February 1 and March 30. c. You cannot depart from DC on a Saturday and you cannot return home on a Friday or a Saturday.

6. Can I go somewhere other then Addis? Yes! This BOGO deal is for ANY destination that Ethiopian Air flies.

7. What are the change fees? The change fee is $300 per person plus any fare difference.

8. How do I book? Email me your dates, full names/birth dates, departure/ destination cities and I will check what the fare will be. You'll have 24 hours to decide if you want to purchase. Easy peasy lemon squeasy.

If you have any other questions feel free to comment, email or call me and I'll be happy to help!

erica.shubin@mkigrouptravel.com

Reckless Abandon 2012 - and THE T-shirt!

2011-12-16T11:39:00.001-05:00

Happy December 16th to you! Its just 9 days until Christmas and I feel like I'm juggling 45 things. I really much prefer to NOT have life be so crazy busy but it is what it is and for this season I am grateful.

In preparation for our trip to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in February we are selling SHIRTS! This is a new design that my oldest daughter drew and our amazing design team made come to life! All of the proceeds go towards Skyler's trip and anything above that will be used to donate to the ministries we are serving with while in country! These shirts are COOL! They come in two colors and you definitely want one! This is a pre-order and they will not ship until mid/end of January.

T-Shirts are $25.00 Shipped.

Sweatshirts are $40.00 Shipped.

Front of the Navy shirt.

Back.

Front of the gray shirt.

Back.

Pre-order yours today!!

Please email me or comment here with any questions.

**For sizes XXL-4X there is an additional $2 per shirt charge**

Order info is on my side bar to the right. These come in mens or womens, navy or gray, any size, T-shirt or sweatshirt.

Happy Referralversary Kids!

2011-12-15T12:44:00.009-05:00

So I won't make mom of the year due to my lack of timeliness in this post - its not that I forgot - because I didn't. I just didn't have time to put into words everything I wanted to write before the days got away from me.

December 11, 2007 is a day we'll never forget. A phone call that changed our lives. He wasn't in the age range we'd put down but he needed a family and we were open to whatever God had. Enter a three year old little boy and the rest is history. Silas Esubalew David Shubin - you've turned our lives upside down for the better.

At Referral.

Today.

Adoption is now a beautiful piece of our family tapestry and it started with you little man. Four years ago we were walking on a cloud carrying his picture every where we went. Clinging to that in anticipation of the day we would be united forever. Going to Ethiopia to bring Silas home was something we'll never forget, we'll never be the same and I'm okay with that. We are forever changed because of what we saw. Forever changed by a little boy God saw fit to allow us to parent. Below is Silas' adoption video. He's changed so much!! We love you buddy!

December 7, 2010 is another day we won't forget. The day a friend texted and said she was sure she'd just seen our daughters face on our agencies waiting child list. I couldn't wait to get home and see for myself. I was a puddle. We were unsure, why was she on this list? Why didn't they call us? Oh, that's right because she was four and we said up to three. God said four. For this child we prayed. December 15, 2010 - The day we said YES to our daughter.

At Referral.

Today.

We are so grateful that Gods ways are not our ways. Our lives are so much richer because Zahra is apart of our family. Zahra brings so much joy, so much laughter, and so MANY one liners! We love this girl!! I haven't had a chance to finish Zahra's whole adoption video but this one below was the video we made for our church.

12th Day of Christmas $10 SUPER SALE!!!!!!!!

2011-12-12T17:48:00.007-05:00

That's right folks! As a grand finale sale I'm offering ALL of my Ugandan Beaded necklaces for just $10! I'm also offering ALL size small womens "Where You Live T's" for just $10 as well!!! Last but certainly not least how about Africa cookie cutters?! Just $10 each!!

I'll ship everything by Wednesday so you'll have all of your items in time for Christmas!
Paypal information is on the right side of the blog!

10/11 Days of Christmas!

2011-12-11T16:35:00.006-05:00

Crazy weekend and a total fail on 12 Days of Christmas deals!

I have THREE things to share with you today -

ONE is hand made hair flowers pictured below - aren't they cute?! Any one of them can be yours for just $7 shipped.

TWO is repurposed Ugandan bead earrings! Hand made by my daughter with all proceeds being donated to Skylers mission trip. Just $7 each pair!

Paypal information is on the right!

THREE is some AWESOME body butter from Kiara where all proceeds go towards their adoption expenses! Kiara has graciously offered to add in a tube of chapstick for anyone that orders and mentions my blog! Check out her blog here and order yours! I can't wait to get mine!!

Simply Love/Audience of ONE on this 9th Day of Christmas Celebration!

2011-12-09T13:07:00.002-05:00

Shopping with purpose is something I always try to do but I really try to do it even more at Christmas time. Here's some ideas for you!

TOMS - These are a family favorite - my girls generally ask for a new pair every Christmas. Give one as a gift and TOMS gives another pair to a child in need.

The Hunger Store - Seriously cute stuff - something for Everyone and every purchase gives back!

147 Million Orphans - Such cute stuff!! Here's my top two picks!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag! Want a Christmas idea? I so want it!

Love these earrings. I wear mine ALL THE TIME and get TONS of compliments!

Last but CERTAINLY not least......todays SPECIAL!

$20 Each Shipped!

Simply Love USA T's and Audience of ONE T's! You'll love them! (Nichol is wearing it below, it comes in black or espresso)

Available Shirts:

Audience of One black with red/white font Womens regular fit XL
Audience of One black with red/white font Kids burnout Sz 4T

Simply Love USA Brown Mens Large
Simply Love USA Olive Mens Large
Simply Love USA Chocolate Womens Small
Simply Love USA Womens Espresso Medium and Small
Simply Love USA Womens Charcoal S
Simply Love USA girls Black Size M (7/8)
Simply Love USA boys light blue Size S (5/6)
(All of the Simply Love shirts run true to size)

The purchase info is on my side bard - specify in the notes if its a kids T!

12 Days of Christmas Continues!

2011-12-08T12:17:00.002-05:00

Thank you all SO much for supporting our upcoming trip to Ethiopia! We're SO excited to see what God has planned for that trip.

Up today are our All For One Shirts!! We designed these shirts as our final fund raiser to bring Zahra home and they were also our family shirts as we were united back together a family of 7.

I love the unity the shirt represents and of course the Amharic on the back.

I have the following shirts available:

$20 Each!

Womens Fitted Red Sz. L
Womens Fitted Wine Sz. XL
Womens Indigo Baseball T Sz L (runs true to size to a bit big style pictured below)
Kids Charcoal T Sz Small

AND I'm adding in MORE beads!
AND Ugandan beaded necklace is just $15 shipped!

Paypal purchasing information below.

On the 7th Day of Christmas..........

2011-12-07T08:41:00.006-05:00

Today we have hand made earrings! Made by my daughter and I these sweet earrings are made of natural stone and wood beads with silver findings. They will come packaged in an organza bag ready for gift giving.

$7 each shipped.

In GIVING BACK.........

Check out the Bring Love In Store!

Jessie and Levi live and work in Ethiopia. We have the great honor of partnering with them on our upcoming trip and I CAN'T WAIT!! Check out their store, all proceeds go to support the work of Bring Love In.

Lifesong & The 6th Day of Christmas.........

2011-12-06T11:33:00.001-05:00

Todays Deal!

We have Africa Cookie Cutters discounted!!!!!

Oh yes! Get yours today! 2/$20 SHIPPED! It doesn't get any better then that! Buy one for yourself and give one away.

Use them as Christmas Ornaments.

Top gifts with them.

Add to stockings.

Use as a gift with cookie mix.

Bake cookies for your neighbors.

So many options!

Don't need a cookie cutter but still want to help? Why not consider donating to Lifesong for Orphans? Lifesong was a huge part in helping bring Zahra home, we are forever grateful. They are currently doing a campaign to raise funds for three schools in Ethiopia. For obvious reasons this is a ministry close to our hearts. All donations are being matched up to $130,000!!!! That's INCREDIBLE!!

YOU can be apart of something bigger! Will you consider joining us in the Hope Ethiopia:100 campaign and donating? Check out the link below for more information. Don't forget to watch the video to see who your $100 will help!

http://lifesong.squarespace.com/home/2011/12/5/hope-ethiopia-100.html

Hope Ethiopia from Lifesong for Orphans on Vimeo.

Misc. Monday and Day 5!

2011-12-05T09:13:00.001-05:00

This edition of Misc. Monday will include some tips on what NOT to do when traveling to Disneyworld. When you live a bit over an hour from Disneyworld sometimes its fun to meet up with friends or just go hang out for the day as a family. Silas wanted to go to the castle for his birthday and this was in lieu of a party. His choice. So we did. Here's where the helpful hints come in.

1. Don't assume your child is just walking like a zombie because its 6am and you're getting ready to head out the door to meet up with the mouse.

2. When your normally overly excited child doesn't act real thrilled about his day maybe you should ask if he's alright instead of jumping up and down with excitement to celebrate HIM.

3. When a child who normally loves rides, the faster the better in his mind, says he doesn't want to go on any more you might finally catch a clue that he's sick.

4. Don't take a sick child to Disneyworld.

5. When you're more worried about your sick child you might not realize that you dropped your state issued ID somewhere along the way.

6. Its great to know that there are nice people in the world. Both the person that found and turned in said ID as well as the people of Disney who agree to mail the lost item. I probably shouldn't drive this week.

7. Sometimes instead of Disneyworld on your birthday you leave early and you get a chicken noodle soup party.

9. Hey it wasn't a total loss. Mario Lopez was in da house! Oh and some Justin Beiber as well as a bunch of other Disney singer peeps. They were filming the Disney Christmas special. Yeah so be sure to watch - we might get our 9.8 seconds of television fame. I mean if we were smiling big enough and clapping like a crazy person. (which we weren't)

9. I'm pretty sure my daughter thinks she's 1/2 Spanish. Thanks to Dora she knows how to count in Spanish, say her colors, and even turned to the young man who answered "si" the other day and said "Si means yes mommy". She's so smart.

10. Skyler informed me that he feels Dora isn't a safe show for his sister. He said "what parent lets their small child wander around volcanoes with just a back pack and a monkey"? He's got a point.

11. Our 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza continues!!! Check out what we've got up for today!

12 Days of Christmas Deal!

All Long Sleeve T's and Sweatshirts I have in stock!

Long sleeved T's $25 each shipped!
Hooded Sweatshirts - $30 shipped!

Unisex "Shut Your Pie Hole" long sleeved black T Sz. L (I have two)

Unisex "Shut Your Pie Hole" black sweatshirt Sz. L

Unisex light gray Alternative brand "All For One" back print only hooded sweatshirt Sz. L (pictured above)

Unisex Charcoal Hooded sweatshirt All For One both sides printed Sz. L and XL (you can see the price well in our homecoming picture above)

AND GIVING BACK!

A portion of today's sales will also benefit the Habuda's! They leave in NINE days to go meet their son Levi in Taiwan! Because of the holidays they are quite a bit short on funds due to when they have to travel. Read their story, pray, and if you feel led please consider donating on their blog link above to help bring Levi home. He's precious!

Day 4 of The 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza!

2011-12-04T15:42:00.004-05:00

I'm late posting so this will last through tomorrow morning!

Today we're offering our LOVE HATS!!! These are Alternative brand hats with our globe logo and the word LOVE on them. I have them in black, olive, and stone. (olive and stone have black ink, black has cream ink)

I love how this hat fits! I wore mine all the time in Ethiopia!

Up close of the details.

Cap shown below in stone.

Happy Birthday Silas!!!! 12 Days of Christmas Continues!

2011-12-03T08:25:00.000-05:00

This is one of the first pictures we ever saw of our sweet boy Silas. He was barely 3.

This was days after meeting and it captures so beautifully the bond God was forming between a father and a son. I love this picture for so many reasons.

My little man! Silas has always always been photogenic and he's always up for a pose. He's 4.5 here.

This picture captures so much. Crossing cultural bounds. Love wins.

Its hard to believe Silas turns SEVEN today! SEVEN. When did that happen?! The sweet, insecure, scared, high pitched screamer of a three year old boy we brought home almost four years ago has blossomed into a kind, loving, hilarious, well adjusted, secure, precious boy. Silas brings so much laughter to our home, a joy we would never know without him. He is confident and opinionated. He will talk your ear off and show you his gymnastic tricks shortly after your introduction. There is no greater joy then being Silas' mama. Son, I love you to the moon and back. Adopting you was the beginning of an incredible journey, you've taught me more about myself , my desperate need for the King, the beauty of His love for all of us. Watching you embrace life for what it is has taught me to be content in my circumstances and to cherish every moment. My prayer for you little man is that you would love Jesus more then anything in this world and that you would put Him first in EVERYTHING. I love you Silas.

With every adoption story there is always tragedy and heartbreak that goes with our greatest joy. I can't help but think of Silas' first mom on this day. The celebration of his birth. She loved him first, she chose LIFE for him, and she's given us the greatest honor to be his parents. We will never ever forget that.

AND the 12 Days of Christmas continues!!! Today we're offering ANY Ugandan beaded necklace of your choice for $15! TODAY ONLY! Until Midnight its on! Just specify in the notes what colors/style you'd like and I'll do my best! Paypal link to the right.

Here's just a few samples.

You can check out this link for more pictures.

Twelve Days Of Christmas - Day 2!

2011-12-02T08:15:00.000-05:00

Today we have our Shut Your Pie Hole T's 2/$30!

Perfect for chicks and dudes. Designed by my husband to emphasize getting in on the action vs. just watching. Its bold and straight to the point!

PLUS check out this SUPER cute fundraiser the Chase family is doing! Headbands! Great stocking stuffers and a giveaway to boot! Buy a shirt or buy a headband, wait, do both! Each one goes to a great cause!

http://teamchase4andcounting.blogspot.com/

Today only you can get one for yourself and one to give away for just $30! Or keep them both, or give both away! Mens and womens sizes, see below for availability!

Mens

Charcoal Size Sm, Med, Large, XL
Olive Size L
Black Size Med, Large, Large, XL

Womens

Size Large unisex

Check back tomorrow for day 3's Deal!!

Pray for us!! The 12 days of Christmas extravaganza continues! Blog it, share it, check out the cute blog button to the right!

12 Days of Christmas............

2011-12-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

If you've read my blog long you know I'm a coffee fan. Every year for the past few years Starbucks has done the 12 days of Christmas! Different items on sale for one day at a discount, sometimes the items purchased give some of the proceeds toward a good cause, etc. I love the idea and decided to implement it here on my blog for the next 12 days. Here's how it works!

Each day I'll share an item we're selling to offset some of the costs of our upcoming mission trip. The one where we'll take our 13 year old son and introduce him to the country we've fallen in love with. He'll taste, touch, and feel the culture, the people, the country. He'll see extreme poverty for the first time and I'll be honest, I'm praying it wrecks him in a whole new way. He feels deeply (like his mother) and he is the most incredible big brother to our littles. I am SO excited to be back in the country we love so much but I'm almost as equally excited to see it all over again through the eyes of my son as we minister side by side.

Back to the 12 Days of Christmas......each featured item will be discounted for that day only. Sometimes I'll share an item or giveaway that another fundraising family is selling to raise money for their adoption or we'll donate a percent of the profits to a ministry we adore.

It'll be a 12 Days of Christmas GIVES BACK extravaganza!

Without further delay.......

The 1st Day of Christmas Deal!

Where You Live T's Misc In Stock

$20 each shipped!
(Up to $10 savings!)

Here's what I have available and ready to ship!

Womens Fitted Size Small

Scarlett x 2
Plum x 2
Grass Green
Espresso x 3
Burgandy
Baby Blue x 3
Charcoal
Slate Blue

Womens Fitted Size Medium

Slate Blue x 2
Plum
Espresso

Womens Fitted Large

Persimmon
Mens T-Shirts Size XL

Royal and Olive

Plus in honor of World AIDS Day for every shirt sold.......we'll donate 20% of the money raised today to Project Hopeful.

Not only that for every item purchased you'll automatically be entered into a drawing to win a gift pack from me! I'll draw a winner December 13th!

Included in the gift pack are the items below!

*Thirty One Gifts Zipper Pouch
*Where You Live T-Shirt
*Ugandan Beaded Necklace
*Sisterhood Beads Handmade Earrings
*Africa Cookie Cutter
*Handmade Hair Flower Headband

Don't want to buy anything? Can't? Will you pray for us? Pray for our team? THANK YOU!! We're so grateful!

Africa Cookie Cutters & Ugandan Beaded Necklaces!

2011-11-30T08:25:00.007-05:00

Just in time for Christmas shopping!

Yep, the Africa cookie cutters are back!
(shape may vary slightly)

Its hard to believe we first sold these almost two years ago and Miss Zahra has been home for EIGHT months already!

Aren't they cute?! This is one of my very FAVORITE items and its SO fun to see the cookies and other items you've made from our past sales!

All proceeds from the sale of these cookie cutters go towards sending Skyler to Africa! Yep, we're taking our 13 year old son and I can't wait to see how God will use his time in Africa. The men will be training leaders while the women lead a VBS, we'll be working on an orphanage with an amazing ministry, as well as serving in Korah. I can't wait to see what how God will use this team. To help offset some of the costs of the trip we're selling cookie cutters, necklaces, and we'll have T-shirts in just a bit! You'll love them! See that logo below? My oldest daughter drew the design idea and our designers made it come to life! Pretty neat huh!?

Cookie Cutters are $14 shipped! This is a pre-order so please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery! All will be shipped by December 14. Paypal "Buy Now" button is on the right side of the blog.

We also have a stash of Uganda Paper Bead Necklaces! I'm showcasing a few below - I have others that will be pictured as these sell out.

Short - $15
Long - $20
Triple - $20
Chunky - $20
Prices include shipping.
Comment or Email me with any questions!

This beautiful baby blue long is perfect with jeans!
Multi chunky goes with just about anything!
I love the green beads!
Multi Long!
Yellow is my personal favorite, I have several!
Triple strand green.

Terrific Tuesday!

2011-11-29T08:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday to you!!! I hope you all had a fantastic holiday weekend! We did! I had planned to post this yesterday morning but it was crazy. Life happens. Plus is was cyber Monday and I was finishing up some Christmas shopping ya know. Oh yeah....that and working!

Its the beginning of a new week, full of Gods mercies, new for us each day. Hallelujah! Lord knows I need them!

I've been a bit lax on my Misc. Monday posts and missed yesterday too. Could have something to do with those five people below. However today I'm playing. :) Here goes!

1. Zahra is funny. I've said this before. Some of her words are just too darn cute. For example its "Watey" (pronounced wah-tay with a rolled "r" sound) instead of water. She also says "good morning time" and "sleepy time" when describing what point of the day we are in or how far away those two time periords are. She'll also happily tell you she's from Eastiopia. :) I never want her little funnies to go away.

2. The little miss mentioned above has figured out the wonders of electronics and can use just about any Mac product with great skill. She also discovered her sisters DS and now wants one of her own. Too bad we already bought her Christmas present.

3. Nichol was in a school play earlier this month, "The Boyfriend" to be exact. She was a maid and the production was fabulous. Hopefully they make it to state!

4. I'm sure it was fabulous in part because this guy above was the sound tech. (I'm sure he'll kill me for saying that but that's okay, its my blog and I get to say what I want) :)

5. We went to Disneyworld and met up with some friends this past weekend. It was Zahra's first trip and she LOVED it! She's a daredevil and not afraid of anything. (another sign that God hand picks these kids for particular families, she fits right in) Except the dinosaur ride in Animal Kingdom. :) I on the other hand was thrilled to see all the Christmas decorations.

6. Zahra is obsessed with bacon. She wakes up in the morning and says "bacon", "make me bacon", "hey dad, I want bacon". HILARIOUS! She's a nut. (and a little sassy)

7. Word from the mother who is learning the hard way...we have ants currently. I'm not a fan. I actually like it when I find a cluster and can kill them all. Today was no different. As I killed them chanting "die suckas" I realized I have a mimic and my young child now walks around saying "die suckas". Yes, mom of the year....right here.

8. I love coffee. I really love winter coffee. (specifically Starbucks Christmas blend) I also really love it when Coffeemate comes out with Peppermint mocha creamer. It makes my mornings happy.

9. I'm almost done Christmas shopping? Are you? What great deals have you found? How about shopping with a purpose? What'd you find?

10. We did a little "Black Friday" shopping. Its overrated. Yep - sister in laws did you hear that?!?!? I'm OVER IT. Sort of. For this year. I like Cyber Monday. Yep me and my peppermint mocha - finishing up my shopping. Fabulous.

11. Stay tuned for some fabulous swag we'll have here soon! We're headed back to Ethiopia in just 12 weeks! (no we're not adopting again) We've got T-shirts coming soon and some awesome Uganda beads I'll post tomorrow! Great for Christmas gifts!

Have an AWESOME week!

A Long Time Coming.

2011-11-24T15:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!

As I was reflecting on the last year I'll be honest, its been a tough one for us. Tough but good. Very very good. All those details are for another day another blog. Today I am grateful. Every day I am grateful but today I want to really reflect on that gratitude and think about what it REALLY means to be grateful every. single. day.

I don't often behave like I'm grateful. Even in the icky I want to have a heart of gratitude. Ann Voskamp has challenged me in a beautiful way through her book 1000 gifts. I'm grateful for the convicting challenge.

Today God has seen fit to give a visual reminder of His perfect timing. His perfection, His design, and His perfect love. Today, later this evening we will gather with friends at the airport to welcome home these three below.

Jon and Melissa started the adoption process just a few weeks after we did and TODAY they will be reunited as a family of seven. Its been a long journey. Tonight is monumental. Tonight closes a chapter that started with four families embarking on an adventure within months of each other. Four children, three of whom are home and little Caleb finishing it out. Four families, fundraising, tears, joy, laughter, and now the rest of our lives intertwined with four precious babes. Four stories that we get to be apart of God writing. Four little lives that God saw fit to place in four families. I know I can speak for each one of us by simply saying we are grateful and TO GOD BE THE GLORY. Amen and Amen.

This precious face will be HOME forever later tonight. The thought of Melissa finally being able to tuck all FIVE of her babies into bed tonight makes me weep. Glory to our great King!

I can't wait to post a picture of all four of us mamas and all four of our babies in our arms. Only a story God could write.

TRUTH.

2011-11-10T07:32:00.000-05:00

I wanted to take a few minutes to talk about a ministry I love. Not just because I ADORE the people God used to start Project Hopeful because I really do. :)

I want to talk about the way God has used this ministry to change the lives of SO many. I want to talk openly about this because the words they have to share are TRUTH. The words they have to share come from the heart of God and the words they have to share about HIV/AIDS can change the life of a child FOREVER. Those words have already changed lives and those words need to be SPREAD.

There's just one other thing. In order to spread TRUTH it takes money. Everything does, its just the way it is. The next thing up for Project Hopeful is a trip to Australia to do just that. SPREAD TRUTH. They are in need of funds to do that. The goal was to raise $5000 by this coming Sunday and so far $1500 has already come in! That means just another $3500 is needed in the next FOUR days!

Will you join me in spreading the word? Donating? Reposting on facebook or your blog?

Help spread the TRUTH about HIV/AIDS and the HUGE need for families to step up and adopt these precious children. Watch the video and consider donating below.

www.projecthopeful.org/donate

Orphan Sunday.

2011-11-06T14:04:00.006-05:00

Orphan Sunday for our family just seems like a day to purposefully remember the precious babes that don't have a family. For us we have constant reminders of a life before a family as we look into the eyes of our two youngest children. Zahra still vividly remembers that time in her life and openly talks about it with us. She feels safe.

I was sharing with someone last week about Gods call to care for orphans. I'm daily brought to my knees as I think about the fact that I could have missed this. I could have lost out on what God wanted to teach me. What He wanted to do in and through our family. I'm so grateful that God in His mercy saw fit to take our family down the path of adoption. WE are the blessed ones.

What a difference almost 4 years makes. Isn't he cute?!?!

I love that both of our Ethiopian babes were December referrals!

What a difference less then a year makes!

This is the video David and I put together in honor of Orphan Sunday. In the past 2 years four families in our church have brought four children into their families forever. We are still praying precious Caleb home but he IS an orphan no more! It has been an amazing testimony of Gods faithfulness to His children as he provided over $100,000.00 to unite these children with their families. He owns it ALL!!!

This is personal for us, watching the change in our own two precious children has been incredible. The redemption in their hearts is only a work God could do. Praise His holy name!!

Watch and prayerfully you'll be challenged to do more. Change starts with each one of us.

WINNER!!!!!!!!! UPDATED

2011-11-03T08:00:00.003-04:00

Just a few more hours! Read all about it HERE!

You don't want to miss your chance on some CUTE stuff for a great cause!

I used random.org to choose a number - (it returned #28) there were a couple repeat comments so after removing those I counted down to the 28th comment.

The WINNER IS..........

Kendra said...: I love love the light layers necklace. I can't wait to do my Christmas shopping this year with a purpose. I will also be posting about many fun places to buy meaningful gifts--coming soon. :0); October 31, 2011 5:54 PM

Kendra, if you can send me your email address I'll let Sara know and she'll send you your gift certificate! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

Miscellany Monday!

2011-10-31T11:55:00.003-04:00

Its been awhile since I've done a Misc. Monday post! I'll blame it on a crazy busy schedule! But here's this weeks installment and let me just say - with crazy busy comes LOTS of misc. Monday options!

1. First I don't want you miss out on the GIVEAWAY I'm doing right here on my blog. If you missed the post yesterday you must go check it out here and comment on that post to be entered to win a $50 gift certificate from Noonday. I promise you don't want to miss it. See the cool arm warmers above? Yes, I live in FL but I SO want these.

2. My oldest daughter let me know last week that she had ZERO issues with telling these pushy boys at school that she has no interest in them. I listened closely as she explained the process of repeating "no I don't like you, yes I'll be your friend but NO I do NOT want to be your girlfriend". I like that kid.

3. The same aforementioned daughter came home later in the week and let me know she'd slapped a boy at school. As soon as the shock wore off I asked her what this poor young lad had done to deserve such a thing. I guess he wouldn't quit touching her. She said she warned him and he didn't listen. I'll admit her father was quite proud.

4. Zahra continues to reinvent funny. Silas is known for being a slow eater. The rest of the kids eat circles around him. This has been especially annoying come Sunday mornings or school days. Yesterday David told him it was a race and he wanted him to finish first. As he was finishing up explaining Zahra says "Silas, you better start your race car". She doesn't miss a beat.

5. I mentioned going to the Together 4 Adoption conference - it was fabulous being able to hang out with precious friends, to be refreshed, and just hanging out with people that "get" me. No need to explain anything, they just get me. There will be more on this in another post.

6. I love Suri. She's helped out of many a jam. She's attempting to keep me organized and I never realized how much I'd appreciate her prior to our meeting.

Noonday & A GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-10-30T16:14:00.001-04:00

With Christmas just around the corner we've been talking alot about gifts that "give back". As my girls and I have talked through this quite a bit we've been looking at different gifting options that do just that. I love these earrings below!

Or these belts! Aren't they incredible?! I love the uniqueness and beauty of every single one.

I recently heard about Noonday through a client who also happens to be the woman who started the company. I love what they are doing and was pretty excited to see their booth at the Together 4 Adoption Conference I attended last weekend.

I saw this necklace in person and LOVED it! Truly unique and just beautiful.

While I was there I was also able to see the amazing pieces from the Noonday Collection. Meet one of the Noonday Ambassadors Sara who has a precious heart. She's an adoptive mama and loves Jesus. It was fun getting to know her a bit better and hearing more about Noonday. Sara loves what she does and doesn't hesitate to talk about the impact this beautiful jewelry has on the women of Uganda.

Noonday now provides jobs for women in eight different countries as a pathway out of poverty.

I love that they are all fair trade products and it is helping families stay together by providing skills and income. It doesn't get much better then that. Beautiful jewelry, belts, bags, and more all going to help keep families together.

when you satisfy the needs of the oppressed, your night will become like the noonday. Isaiah 58:10

You can read more about Noonday on their website. You can also join them on facebook for the latest! There are many different opportunities to get involved. Hosting a trunk show, becoming an ambassador, or fund raising for an adoption.

Here's a few more things I love! These clutches are ADORABLE and unique!

Little treasure boxes!
Or patchwork journals which you can never have too many of!

My new friend Sara has graciously offered to give one of my readers a $50 gift certificate to use towards any Noonday product! How cool is that?!

All you have to do is go check out their website, tell me what you'd buy with your $50 gift certificate OR let me know your favorite product by leaving a comment here and I'll draw a winner on Thursday.

Christmas shopping with a purpose!

Totally Thursday (Miscellany Monday's Sister)

2011-10-20T06:29:00.000-04:00

Because my day was CRAZY and I missed my Monday post I'm doing a Thursday post instead. It was a NUTTY weekend and this week is shaping up to be all kinds of crazy too. So Happy Thursday to you! Randomness below sums up the last week.

1. My oldest daughter is 14. She went to her first dance. Homecoming. I aged that night. Luckily it was with a group of girlfriends so I wasn't totally hyperventilating. She looked gorgeous, her dress was awesome, a sweet friend did her hair and she had a blast.

2. I made Apple Crisp yesterday, it was the first batch of the season with many more to follow I'm sure. Pretty fatastically yummy if I say so myself. I love fall. And apples.

3. Zahra has become the in house comedian. She doesn't miss a beat. If there is a joke to be made this girl is ON IT. We were in Target last week, just the littles and I. We walked by the baby section and she said "hey mom, look at that, its Silas' new bed" (pointing to a pack and play) She's a funny kid. Silas didn't find her as humorous as I did.

4. Nichol informed me yesterday that she has no problem telling the oogling boys at school that she doesn't like them as anymore more then a friend. She said they keep asking if she likes them (you know REALLY likes them) and she regularly shuts them down. Guess those cheesy one liners won't be working on her.

5. Today my wise 13 year old son let his father know he could see wrinkles on his face. David loves having a teenager. 6. I've had some odd snack cravings lately but my favorite has been cottage cheese and baked cheddar ruffles. Seriously. Try it.
7. Silas has a habit of doing gymnastics. ALOT. Last week I received a note from his teacher that he was complaining of a sore neck. Of course he is dear teacher, the child does FACE stands! One day I will post a picture. Its quite creepy honestly. Every day I tell him to please stop, it scares his mother. He laughs and continues.

8. I'm leaving for Phoenix today for the Together 4 Adoption conference......I'm excited. I hope to see some of YOU there!

9. I've been doing boot camp for the last three weeks. I've also discovered muscles I never knew existed in my body. Currently they are screaming at me.

10. Because I'm doing boot camp its kinda made me eat a little healthier. I made the above salad today. It was awesomeness. David even ate it and Silas asked for squash cubes for a snack. Seriously? What kid ASKS for squash for a snack!?!? He loved it.

I'm headin out on a jet plane! The crazy busy kept me from posting all my other fun posts! More next week! Have a FABULOUS rest of the week and weekend!

While They Wait.

2011-10-13T17:49:00.001-04:00

Some things in life just suck. Yes, I said it. Often times that's what we need to hear when we're struggling. Not the "oh it'll be okay" or "this is just a season" or "it'll be over soon" or "God's in control". Yes, all of those things may be true but honestly some things won't be okay and that doesn't mean Gods not in control.

When life has struggles having others to walk it out with you is often the best medicine. Not just pat you on the back and say it'll be okay but to actually struggle with you, to cry with you, to battle with you. To carry the burden with you, to cover you in prayer, to spend time with you, to talk about it if they need to, and to truly bear that pain together.

Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:4

Its an honor and a joy to do that with some dear sisters/brothers who are fighting for their children. As we head into the weekend I had a fun tutorial I was going to post but I just couldn't. Families are hurting, they are struggling to keep their focus as their heart aches for their children. I have posts to write for fund raising families and how you can support them. That'll come Monday and into next week.

Today I'm asking that you remember the precious families waiting on embassy clearance, waiting for MOWA letters, and those who have received devastating news in regards to their wait or even if they are going to be able to bring their children home. Families gearing up for a long wait as their cases are sent for further review.

Will you join me in praying for these families? I know there are at least 15-20 families that I know of facing uncertainty either in their adoption all together or in their extended wait.

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philipians 4:6

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1Thessalonians 5:16-18

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26

This quote from Martin Luther King Jr. seems all to appropriate.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made straight and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together.

Until they are all home, lifting each one of you up!

Miscellany Monday

2011-10-10T08:43:00.001-04:00

Good Monday Morning to you! Its been a super busy weekend, I don't think I rested once. Oh wait....we did go on a date, that was semi restful with a little bit of mission in there too. Okay so you get the point. Its Monday and I wish it was Friday.

How about some randomness to start your day. :)

1. My husband has dyslexic moments every once in a bit.....this weeks were awesomely classic and worth documenting. At two different times while trying to make a point with our offspring he told them "Stop doing that, its like chaulk on a nail board". Not to be out done just yesterday he told the kids to "stop it off". This works well if your goal was to make the whole brood roar with laughter.

2. I'm super excited to be going to Together 4 Adoption again this year. Are you going?

3. This weekend I purchased my daughters first homecoming dress. It was bittersweet. My oldest child is growing up. I kept seeing flash backs of her as a little bitty as she posed in the mirror choosing which dress she liked best. I felt older.

4. I've recently become rather fond of my husbands iPad.....its therapy playing Angry Birds. Maybe you like them too. Check out this deal here its a win win. Donate some cash, help bring four kids into a family, get a chance at a free iPad! Yep. True stuff.

5. I got this book in the mail earlier in the week. I've had to fight my daughter off just to read it. Katie has challenged me many times over the years since I started reading her blog. She's the real deal. She's candid, honest, and humble. Reading her heart has been challenging all over again. A young womans honest walk with Jesus as she raises her 13 daughters in Uganda. A beautiful example of the hands and feet of Jesus at work. 6. I've got a new obsession with these jeans. Seriously cute and through today you can order them online for a mere $14 and change. Pretty much love a good deal and cute jeans. They are cheaper in stores if you take an old pair of jeans in for a 20% discount but the 20% off online code makes it easy. My husband was happy they were only $14 bucks, that never happens.

7. I started Christmas prepping/shopping last month. I have always shopped early and my goal is always to be done by the end of October. Last year I didn't make it. This year I'm hoping to and I've got my work cut out for me.

8. I'm making lentils today and I'm excited. Fall is a good time for things like lentils, apple crisp and squash. I'm determined to make my kids like squash. Wish me luck.

9. This weekend we played hide and seek in the dark with our kids. Yeah pretty much got the cool parent award. Its hilarious to listen to your kids searching for you when you're in the same room they are ripping apart and they have no idea you're there. Yes, we're easily entertained.

10. Date night is good. We're back to attempting to get out weekly - so far we've made it two weeks in a row!

Calling All Prayer Warriors.

2011-10-07T11:26:00.002-04:00

There are people you meet in the adoption process that just bless your heart. Sometimes they probably don't even know it. Maybe they do. :)

Kati was one of those people for me. She didn't always say much but she commented on my blog, supported us as we fund raised and cheered from the side lines as we waited to bring Zahra home. Kati is an encourager. She's a Jesus lover, she has faith that is rock solid, and more then that she takes each step in her own adoption process with grace and humility. As Kati and Justin have waited an extremely long time for embassy clearance she hasn't wavered in believing that God has a plan, that God will bring her daughter home and that ALL of this is for their good and Gods glory.

Today Kati and her husband Justin have been hit with some difficult news. Its not my news to share so I would love for you to go read what Kati posted this morning over here on her blog. After you do I'm asking that you would join me and many others in covering not only their family and their precious baby girl but each and every family that is facing longer then expected timelines, difficult news, and a lot of unknowns.

This song was HUGE for me during our process with Zahra and I am believing it and praying it for my friends who are waiting on Gods perfect timing in bringing their children home.

One of my dear friends always refers to Moses' friends holding up his arms when he was weary in battle. I love love this picture. It is a joy and an honor to pray for my friends. Will you hold up the arms of our precious sister with me? Will you link with us in prayer? We don't know the outcome but we trust in a God who does. A God who is so much bigger then us and a God we can fully trust. For His abundant glory and our transformation.

Then Amalek came and fought with Israel at Rephidim. So Moses said to Joshua, "Choose for us men, and go out and fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand." So Joshua did as Moses told him, and fought with Amalek, while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the sword.
Exodus 17:8-13

She Calls Me Mama.

2011-10-06T08:35:00.000-04:00

For every phase of the attachment/bonding process there are things you look for in your child just to confirm that he or she is progressing along in this process. There is no definitive timeline, much of it for us has just been intuition and referencing all that we've been taught through incredible teachers and books we've read. (Thank you Karen Purvis and many many others)

Lately there's been a switch in my sweet girl. I referenced some of that process here and here. Lately there's been something even more. A deeper connection to our family, a deeper connection to me as her Mommy and to David as her Daddy. This week she started calling me mama. Not mommy or mom or hey you. Just mama. Yes she still says mom or mommy and even every once in awhile I get "hey you". But, she calls me mama.

This may or may not be significant but if you heard her say it you'd know. It comes out in a different tone. It comes out when she's scared and wants to be held. It comes out when she's nervous and wants to know I'm here. It comes out when she needs a drink or I've just handed her a bowl of oatmeal. It comes out when she wants me to color with her or she wants to comb my hair. It comes out when she wants me to lay with her as she falls asleep and it comes out as she lifts her arms high to be picked up. It comes out as she grabs my leg when she's unsure of a situation and it comes out as she's running through the house being chased by her daddy or her big brothers.

Slowly, day by day, her security is increasing, slowly she's finding her place in our family. Slowly she's understanding the depth of our love for her and she will never. Ever. EVER be alone. She is ours and we are hers. Forever and always. Jesus is healing her heart and he's allowing us to be apart of that process. There is no greater joy. Even in the hard. Even in the sad. Even in the tiring. There is no other place I'd rather be.

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows — this is God, whose dwelling is holy. God places the lonely in families.

Psalms 68:5-6

Guest Blogger: Adami Tulu

2011-10-04T06:11:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to say that I am honored and blessed to watch what God is doing in the Picker family. I met Mary Beth for the first time earlier this year at the C4C Retreat, God is doing some pretty big stuff in and through them! Read more below and please consider helping to support Adami Tulu.

Thank you so much Erica for allowing me to post on your blog about a subject that is so important to me.

Over three years ago, my husband and I began our journey to adopt our son from Ethiopia. And since that time, God has been filling our hearts with an overwhelming love and passion for the people of Ethiopia. We returned a year after our first adoption to bring our daughter home. After arriving home with her, we knew we had to do more.

We have been so blessed to team up with other adoptive families around the U.S. and with Lifesong for Orphans. Lifesong is doing some amazing work through a small nursery school that they support in Adami Tulu, Ethioipa. You can read more about Adami Tulu here.

Last year, we, with five other families, raised over $40,000 to build a new building, restroom facility, and gate at the Adami Tulu school. In August, we got to return to Ethiopia to see the new building. We had an amazing trip, and have absolutely fallen in love with Adami Tulu. You can read more about our trip here and here. The school is changing the lives of so many vulnerable children in the area by offering them a wonderful education and two nutritious meals a day.

We've returned home with the knowledge that we have so much more to do in Adami Tulu. So we've agreed to continue our work with Lifesong by raising funds for another school building on the Adami Tulu campus. This will enable the school to expand to include 1st and 2nd grade. More details will be coming soon, but we're anxious to get a jump start on fundraising. We know that this project will cost at least $50,000. But, for these sweet faces, we'll do anything!

We are very excited to announce our first fundraiser for our next phase of the Adami Tulu project: another Aspen Giveaway!

Our Aunt and Uncle have, once again, generously donated toward our fundraising efforts. Only this time they've offered us not one but FIVE stays at the Hyatt Grand Aspen.

Any one of these November stays might make a great early-Thanksgiving get together for you and some friends or family!

We will begin the giveaways today and draw winners on October 15. To enter, donate $20 by clicking the link for the stay that you're interested in. For every $20 you donate to Lifesong for Orphans, you will get one entry in the drawings. By the way, 100% of your donation will go to our work in Adami Tulu.

Here are some details and pictures about the Hyatt stays:

Hyatt Grand Aspen has complimentary continental breakfast, a pool and hot tub, fitness center, fire pit, daily room cleaning and nightly turn down service complete with chocolates. There is even a little hut by the hot tubs where you can hang your robes to keep them warm for you! The hotel is within walking distance of lots of shops and restaurants in Aspen.

The retail value of each stay is approximately $2,500.

To get to Aspen, you could fly into the Aspen airport. The hotel will pick you up and, since everything is within walking distance, you can go without a car during your stay. Or you could fly into Denver and rent a car to drive to Aspen. Or, of course, you could also just drive to Aspen.

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #1:

Sat.- Sat. November 5-12 (full week stay)

Studio Unit (Like a nice hotel room with small kitchenette.)

To enter the drawing for Giveaway #1, donate to Lifesong for Orphans here:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #2:

Sun.- Thurs. November 13-17 (five days/ four nights)

Two Bedroom Unit (Two Bedrooms and Bathrooms, Kitchen, Livingroom, Dining Room, Washer and Dryer, etc.)

To enter the drawing for Giveaway #2, donate to Lifesong for Orphans here:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #3:

Sun.- Thurs. November 13-17 (five days/ four nights)

Three Bedroom Unit (Three Bedrooms and Bathrooms, Kitchen, Livingroom, Dining Room, Washer and Dryer, etc.) Maybe a family could do an "early Thanksgiving get together" in this one.

To enter the drawing for Giveaway #3, donate to Lifesong for Orphans here:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #4:

Tues.-Sat. November 15-19 (five days/ four nights)

One Bedroom Unit (All the things a two bedroom has but only one bedroom and bathroom)

To enter the drawing for Giveaway #4, donate to Lifesong for Orphans here:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #5:

Tues.-Sat. November 15-19 (five days/ four nights)

Two Bedroom Unit (Two Bedrooms and Bathrooms, Kitchen, Livingroom, Dining Room, Washer and Dryer, etc.)

To enter the drawing for Giveaway #5, donate to Lifesong for Orphans here:

Just imagine, you could win a stay in Aspen, just for donating $20. What a deal! Plus, you get to be part of this amazing project to help these precious kids in Adami Tulu.

If you are unable to use one of the stays, you could donate your entry to a friend, or minister, or someone who could really use the time away.

Help us raise money to expand the Adami Tulu school and spread the word about our giveaway. Please repost on twitter and facebook! Thank you!

Miscellany Monday

2011-10-03T09:05:00.000-04:00

Randomness from the last week.....

1. Junk mail. You know what I'm talking about. Normally I just pile it up and toss it. However this particular day one piece caught my eye. FREE. When you're a thrifter (its a word, I just made it one) you notice these things. What came next shocked me. Free Cremation. Seriously? SERIOUSLY people? Who does that? Shocker. Yes. I tossed it. Weirdness.

2. Silas and Zahra are official bike riders. Silas the two wheel variety and Zahra with training wheels. Very cute. I should have taken pictures. Mom fail.

3. I miss fall in the NW. You know, hay rides, cool weather, pumpkin patches, and apple cider. I'm working to create fall in my house despite the sun outside.

4. It has been cooler here in FL this last weekend. Having my windows open makes me happy, it also makes my house seem cleaner.

5. I did finger curls in Zahra's hair this week. I love it. I want to keep it like that every day. I'll admit it made me happy when a beautiful black mama commented on her hair do in Target. No shame.

6. Some sweet friends are getting married next month, I had the honor of doing their engagement pictures awhile ago. This past weekend was the first shower for precious Amberly, its been so fun to watch their courtship and we can't wait to celebrate with them in November.

7. School lunches are horrible. They affect children's behavior and alter their love for good food. Silas is all about them and wants a "hot lunch" every day. He even told someone that was his favorite thing about school because mom never made him "hot lunch". Yes son, you're right, I didn't feed you sodium filled slimey spahgetti, corn dogs, or pizza every day. That is correct. Today he's having an organic homemade lunch and he's going to love it. I love you Silas. So much I'll make your lunch.

8. I started fitness boot camp today. I'll know every muscle that exists in my body by tomorrow. This I'm sure of.

9. I'm working on some fun posts coming up and I'm super excited about them!

10. I'll leave you with this verse. It's meant a lot to me this past week and also kind of kicked my butt. It's well known but often its moments of weakness or struggle that verses pop out at me. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

Happy Monday All!!

Miscellany Monday

2011-09-26T18:37:00.000-04:00

Its Monday. Again. I much prefer the weekend and this particular one seemed much too short. None the less this is the day that the Lord has made so I will rejoice in it! Happy Monday to you!

1. The past few days Zahra has been exceptionally vocal about things. Add to that.....she's a fashionista. Its great, grand, and wonderful but sometimes this also includes a bit of sass. The rest of the time its just plain cute. Here's a couple examples.

Me: Zahra, its time to go clean your room please. Zahra: Mom, I'm dreaming. Me: That's nice, go dream and clean.

Zahra: Hey Liv lets do "cheeto" (raising her cup of ice cream high) Olivia: Cheeto? Zahra: Yeah "cheeto" (clinking Livs cup proudly) Olivia: Oh.....cheers!

2. David and I have been running in 14 different directions and none of those directions seem to intersect. I hate that. Date nights haven't happened in weeks and I really don't like that. Taking notes that this must change. Soon.

3. Silas is quite a little gymnast......he'll show his antics to anyone that will watch. He's pretty talented if I do say so myself.

4. Pretty sure I've mentioned the fact that my oldest child is a freshman in high school. I repeat this only to remind myself of the fact that time FLIES. Anywho - homecoming is coming up and I'm reminded yet again that my daughter is growing up. Way. Too. Fast.

5. This past weekend we had the great privilege of having a view into the future. Nichol brought home our "fake grand child". She cried and ate. Often. Nichol was a wonderful "fake mommy" to her "fake child". This fake child gave that girl a run for her grade. I'm pretty sure she'll get an A for this project! She was fabulous and while I'm obviously not ready for grandmotherly duties it was a good experience for all of us. In Davids mind it just reaffirmed his stance of NO MORE BABIES!

6. My Grandparents came from Oregon for a visit. They were driving across the country and stopped in to see us too. It was so good to see them. They met Zahra for the first time and we were able to spend some quality time together. We loved having them here and showing them around our hood. Here's a few more pictures of our time together.

One Less.........

2011-09-16T13:22:00.004-04:00

Today marks 5 months that we've been home with Zahra. Five months as a family of seven. What a difference five months makes!

I've debated on how to write this. I 've considered not writing it at all. However I can't ignore what is going on in my precious girls heart. I can't not post about the redemption that is going on in my home in the tiny person who is my daughter. As Zahra's English gets better and better she's articulating her thoughts and feelings. Lately the things she's been saying have leveled me. No five year old girl should ever experience some of the things she's experienced. My daughter has had her little heart shattered into a million pieces. Those are the pieces of her little heart that God has so providentially allowed us to nurture, love, and cherish as we trust that our King will put those pieces back together as only He can. As she trusts us more and more she's letting us in. She's articulating her thoughts and feelings in a way I can only describe as heart wrenching. She's sharing a part of her life that pained her. Even in that process she's also sharing a part of her heart that exudes extreme joy. The joy of having a family.

When we used Matthew West's song "One Less" for our mini adoption video (meaning I still haven't finished the full version) we had no idea the impact that choice would have on our precious daughter. Zahra watches her video over and over, sometimes with tears streaming down her cheeks and a smile on her face. She talks about each picture, tells us about the day we came to get her and the plane ride home. Meeting her siblings, her now friends, and she tells us repeatedly about the day we became a family.

I don't share any of this flippantly. I share it because its important for those of you that were such a huge part of helping to bring Zahra home to see the impact you made on our little girl. On our family. On who we are. Its important to share for others who are on the fence to see the impact adoption has on these little lives.

There are parts of Zahra's story we won't share. We'll keep those for her. But these parts are an even bigger part of an incredible story that God is writing. These parts are a beautiful piece of Zahra's tapestry, the parts that will make up who she is. How we respond and what we teach her will forever be a part of how she sees herself. Most of all I want her to see who she is in Christ and how much HE loves her and has written this BEAUTIFUL story of His perfect love in the midst of brokenness.

The past few weeks little Z has been humming the "One Less" song and a few words would come out occasionally. This week she's been BELTING the song. Today as she was combing my hair (which she does every day as we talk about our morning) she started singing this same song. She told me it was her favorite song. I asked her why and she said because it meant family. She proceeded to share that when she was in Ethiopia she waited in her bed for a mommy and daddy to come. She would cry for her mommy or daddy but they weren't there. She said when we came she was so happy. Now she has family and this was her favorite song. I wanted to sob but knew I couldn't. I whispered quietly in her ear that I was so glad she was my girl and it was my favorite song too. We hugged and she went off to play.

Later she was belting it again and told her Daddy it was her favorite song. She said her favorite part is "One Less, One Less, One less broken heart in the world tonight". Yes, my five year old gets the words of this song on a very real level. Our daughter understands the truth of these words. She's articulated how it makes her feel to have a mama who will lay with her until she falls asleep. How she loves it when her daddy wrestles her. She loves that she has big sisters who fiercely protect her. She loves that Nichol braids her hair. She loves that her big brothers play games with her and Skyler carries her all over the house. All of these things are reasons WHY children belong in families. Not in orphanages, not on streets, and not crying in their beds asking where their mommy and daddy are.

Little did I know the impact of a simple song choice and how God would use that to help pull out some of the painful memories buried deep inside my precious daughters heart and turn them into something beautiful as she processes this journey with us.

Miscellany Monday

2011-09-12T18:05:00.004-04:00

Randomness at its finest. Happy Monday!

1. Vacations are something I've discovered I need often. For my sanity. Last week away was amazing. Being able to travel and work is a gift. Who wouldn't want to hang out with this crew?!?

2. My kids are funny. My live in comic relief in an otherwise crazy busy life. They get their funny from their father. See below.

3. I remembered quickly one of my biggest peeves with public schools. The 41 million fund raisers the kids come home with. SERIOUSLY?!?!? There is one thing I buy. Cookie Dough. That is all. In the two years my kids weren't in public school this hasn't changed. I don't want magazines, Entertainment books, wrapping paper, cards, or anything else.

4. Yes I'm that bad parent that tells her kids they don't have to sell anything if they don't want to. I admit it.

5. I took my daughter shopping ~~again~~ last weekend......she likes the same stores I do. This was another reminder that either a. I need new stores or b. she needs to stop growing up. I'll take the latter.

6. Zahra is a fashionista. She's got her own style and a mind of her own. While talking on skype today with a co-worker Zahra piped in and said to him "hey yer cute"! Good thing he has five girls himself. Pretty sure it made his day.

7. Nausea seems to be hitting our house this week, not sure what from. I had it, Skyler had it, David woke up with it and Olivia's complaining of it now too. I've prayed for no puking and pulled out the clorox wipes.

8. This afternoon my daughter brought home what I'll call the "411" from school. Most things are common sense. You know don't run over the kid in the cross walk, don't block peoples cars, be nice and mind your manners sort of things. These sorts of things always make me laugh because we are adults but hey I guess they've had less then stellar experiences making this necessary. As I was skimming something caught my eye. All prescriptions must be taken in the nurses office. (even chapstick) Yes you read that right, EVEN chapstick. It gets better. Said chapstick may only be administered after an orange Physician form has been filled out. That's correct folks. Hide the chapstick, soon it'll be under prescription only!

9. I love what I do. I love my clients. This Ethiopian Air sale has kicked my hiney! I'm thrilled that so many of you were able to take advantage of this deal!

Created 4 Care!

2011-09-07T08:50:00.000-04:00

Are you going?!?!

I am! I CANNOT WAIT! It shouldn't surprise me that 400 spots filled up in just 9 hours and there is already a waiting list more then 100 people long! AMAZING. I'm SO SO excited to go. Blessed to be able to meet/hang/and converse with so many amazing women.

This year was fabulous and I am excited to see what next year holds!

Praying for the women pulling all of the details together. Watching as God brings His people together to share/love/care for one another is amazing. He is faithful and I look forward to meeting many of you there!

ET Air BOGO Sale!!

2011-09-02T07:22:00.003-04:00

I normally don't mix work and family but this is just TOO good not to post! Most of you know I'm a travel agent - I love love love what I do and I love getting to talk with so many of you! Helping plan mission trips, arranging adoption travel, booking one way baby tickets HOME....I love being able to do this. Its truly an honor to serve my clients and build relationships like this. That said I also REALLY REALLY love a sale! Starting TODAY through September 12th Ethiopian Air is offering a BOGO deal to ALL of its Africa destinations! Yes, you read that right! ALL destinations EXCEPT Addis! They've narrowed that sale down to just September 8th - 12th. So upcoming court dates, embassy dates, etc. This sale's for you! It's going to be CRAZY and it'll go QUICK!

If you're interested or have any questions don't hesitate to email me! erica.shubin@mkigrouptravel.com

More Zahraism's

2011-08-30T10:17:00.000-04:00

This little gal makes us laugh SO much!!!

Straight from her own lips......

Mom, make it my eat. -

Zahra: Mom, you have muscles? Me: No, do you? Zahra: Yepa I do. Me and daddy do it a like a this, (showing me that she lifted weights) I get a muscles.

While Nichols doing her hair:

You be mean uh me Nichol.

You pulla my hair, I take uh your hair and uh pull it long.

Everything seems to end in EE or Uh for little Z. Water = WatEE, Store = Uh StorEE, Stop = Uh Stop-uh.

Zahra started Pre-K here at home and is loving it. She loves doing her "school work" and we've been doing some form of art every day. She's gotten to be quite the painter!

Back To School!

2011-08-29T08:43:00.000-04:00

This last week was a CRAZY one! Two birthdays, back to school, and big schedule changes!

Prior to moving to Florida our kids were in public school. It was a decision David and I made early on in our parenting years.....always reserving the right to change our minds but for us it was where we felt God wanted to use us. We were always super involved in the kids' schools and it was a very positive interaction for us all. Of course the day my daughter decided to go head to head with a teacher on creation vs. evolution created for good conversation but these were all good things!!

Moving to Florida, a new place where we knew no one, the Lord had already started letting me know He might be calling us to home school and me not wanting to but a husband who felt we should led to the decision to home school. Again reserving the right to change our minds and taking it one year at a time. :) It was good for us, good for the kids, and we loved being together.

Fast forward two years, Nichol wanting to go to high school for a myriad of reasons, lots of prayer, and the decision to put three of our five kids in public school was made. One week in they are all thriving! Skyler and Zahra are home this year and as it goes each year we reserve the right to change our minds any which direction based on what we feel is best for our kids. :) Grateful that Gods grace covers every decision, we are basking in it!

My high schooler. Getting ready.

Praying before she leaves for her first day of school.

Yes, its still dark out when she starts her day! Its off to 9th grade for Nichol.

My sweet little 4th Grader Olivia.

My big first grader Silas!

I didn't get pics of the other two but they really officially start this week. :)

Happy Birthday Zahra Reign!!!!!

2011-08-28T11:40:00.000-04:00

It makes me all teary to write this post. Today is Zahra's first celebrated birthday ever. She had no idea what it meant to have a Birthday Party prior to coming home and seeing her friends and siblings have parties. She's ALL about it now!

Today is bittersweet for me. I can't help but think of little Z's first family and how they might be feeling. The pain of not having Zahra there with them. I wonder what they are thinking. Do they wonder if she's okay? Is she happy. I wish I could just pick up the phone and tell them she's doing fantastic, we talk of them often, how she loves her babies, her room, she can swim and ride a bike. How much she is loved and adored and how nothing will ever replace them.

We celebrated last night as a family. David made some AMAZING stuffed chicken, we swam, and watched "old" (as in we feel old watching movies that were new when we were kids) movies and eating strawberry short cake. Life has been so crazy we've postponed her party until early September. Today we're celebrating with Daddy's famous homemade breakfast, presents, and more pool time. I can't wait to post the pictures of what her siblings got her!

Looking back through pictures I'm amazed at how much this little girl has changed.

One of the first pictures we ever saw of Zahra.

Today we celebrate Zahra Belaynesh Reign turning 5!

Look what came in the mail!!

Thank you Auntie Sarah for my beautiful quilt! I LOVE IT!

Its so cuddly!

24 Hours. Reckless Abandon. Cute Shirts!

2011-08-27T21:52:00.002-04:00

I posted this a few days ago......we're close to winning an additional $500!! You can help!! Just be sure to choose Reckless Abandon 2012 in the affiliate box! A HUGE Thank you to those that have already purchased!!

We are SO excited to announce our return to Ethiopia in 2012! My husband is leading a missions trip back to the country we love so much. The trip is sponsored by our church (LifeBridge) and we have quite a few people that are planning on going.

While in Ethiopia the dudes will be hosting a leadership training for pastors/leaders in the area. The chicks will be doing a VBS style ministry with children in the area. We'll have a construction project of some sort, many of the details are still being ironed out but we trust that God will cover those details.

I can't wait to go back, I miss Africa like crazy and can't wait to see what God is going to do in and through this team.

With all of the excitement of this upcoming trip there are some very real needs financially and practically to make this happen. In order to help as many people as possible to go on this trip we've done several fund raisers as a whole. So far God has provided in huge ways, we've been blessed as a team to watch His provision. In keeping with that theme we've teamed up with Ordinary Hero to sell T-shirts and Gear! 40% of those sales go directly to our church Mission Fund! This weekend we have the unique opportunity to win an ADDITIONAL $500 grant towards our trip! (JUST IN we have until the 28th to sell the MOST gear!!)

How does it work?!

This weekend only (starting at Midnight Friday morning) there is a contest that awards a $500 grant to the top THREE sellers! Yes that means we could have additional $500 towards our mission fund! How cool is that?!?! Several members of the team have NEVER been to Ethiopia!! This is a great opportunity to not only get some AWESOME gear but also benefit our mission team!

Look at these SUPER CUTE SHIRTS!!!!

Here's the link to the OH store:
http://www.ordinaryherostore.org/cart.html

***Don't forget to select Reckless Abandon 2012 from the affiliate drop down menu***

I know they are launching a new fall line as well so look for an updated posts with my FAVORITE picks!! HAPPY SHOPPING!!!!

Adoption. Fund Raising. Children. Families.

2011-08-26T07:23:00.000-04:00

Today marks the first morning following a CRAZY, AMAZING journey for four families in our little church. Every one of us fund raised in some way or another. Just 25 months ago two families started the Ethiopian adoption process. One of them would leave the Ethiopia program to follow a domestic adoption. 17 months ago we started our journey that would bring us Zahra and 16 months ago the Masers started the adoption process. TODAY every single one of us is FULLY FUNDED!!! Three babes are home and little Caleb will be home SOON!

I remember several "wow that's a lot of money for a little church" comments when we all were in this process at the same time. Yep. It was. Approximately $115,000 to be exact. That's alot of money. That's a HUGE amount of money. That's where my GREAT BIG GOD stepped in. Nothing. I mean NOTHING is too big for my God. He says in his word that He sets the lonely in families. He cares for the orphan. He absolutely does. He uses you and me in different ways. Some of us get to parent them, some get to pray for them, some get to help financially, some buy shirts or cookie cutters, or necklaces, or puzzle pieces. Every single one of us CAN and MUST do something. I'm blown away that my King who can do ANYTHING, I do mean anything LETS US (little ole me) be apart of His plan for the orphan. He allows us to be used. WE GET TO DO THIS. I'm humbled, in awe, and blessed beyond measure that we get to be apart of His plan.

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows — this is God, whose dwelling is holy. God places the lonely in families. Psalms 68:5-6

In you the orphan finds mercy. Hosea 14:3

Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. Isaiah 1:17

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice. Proverbs 31:8-9

And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. Matthew 18:5

I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me! Matthew 25:40

It has been an amazing journey to walk this adoption road with some of my closest friends. To link arms, to cry together, to rejoice together, and to watch God move in our midst to bring our children home. His faithfulness overwhelms me, His goodness humbles me, His grace consumes me. Great is Your faithfulness oh God.

If you are reading this and you are feeling discouraged in your adoption journey, your fund raising or in the wait I would just encourage you that it WILL happen, Gods timing may not be our timing but HIS timing IS perfect. This walk of faith is like nothing else you will ever experience. Remember our God owns the cattle on a thousand hills! He can provide for an adoption any way He sees fit! Trust, walk, pray, repeat.

The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it; Psalm 24:1

Rejoice with us.....our Father does exceedingly abundantly more then we could ever ask or imagine!

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:20

Giving To Others.

2011-08-24T14:36:00.002-04:00

Crazy week here in the Shubin house - lots of changes - new schedules - a new normal - grateful for the grace and peace of an everlasting King.

Lately I've been wrestling through several things. I'm fairly certain this is a season in life I'm just going to wrestle through. When I get to the other side I may share here but for now I'm wrestling with my Jesus by my side and clinging to His promises.

It seems that in those times of hard wrestling our greatest joys come from spending time at the feet of Jesus, serving others, loving on others, pouring out on my kids, and its in this "season" that I realize my struggles pale in comparison to the issues my brothers and sisters in Africa face on a daily basis.

My precious never-met-in-real-life friend Mandie Joy always blesses my heart. One day I will meet this sweet sister. She always posts blogs I need to hear. Recently her gratitude posts have been good reminders for me. I decided a couple weeks ago to start a 1000 Gifts journal - I ordered a special journal just for my writings. Thank you Ann Voskamp for that inspiration.

In keeping with giving to others I want to highlight a few opportunities for you.

First an update on the shirt sales and helping with the drought in Africa. Through the shirts purchased by some of YOU we've been able to donate over $200 to Glimmer Of Hope to aid in helping ministries ALREADY on the ground in Ethiopia and Somalia! AMAZING!!! THANK YOU!!

Having been down the adoption fund raising road I can't tell you enough what an incredible gift it is to have people walking with you. Linking arms with you as you fight to bring your child/children home. Knowing that your child/children is/are so loved by not only you and your family but all kinds of people you've never even met. People who pray, encourage, and give to make paying the large sum of money to bring them home. There is incredible joy to be able to watch God work in such an incredible way.

The other day we were working on Zahra's puzzle (yes I'm still working on finishing it up so we can frame it) and Silas asked me if people loved him so much to help bring him home like they did Zahra. This stopped me in my tracks. I've heard many people say "what will you tell this child whom others helped pay for"? Aside from that being an incredibly RUDE way to put it I saw it in a whole new light, through the eyes of my six year old son. I wasn't sure how to delicately share with him that God used other circumstances financially to help bring him home. I decided not to go into it too much and just told him that he was SO loved and SO prayed for. I think its a POSITIVE to allow others to be apart of a story that is SO much bigger then ourselves.

That said I've got several fund raising friends and I want to give you all an opportunity to BLESS them and be apart of some of these stories should you feel led. :)

Many of you purchased cookie cutters from us here and here. Many of you have written asking if I still have any and unfortunately I don't. BUT......guess what?! You can get your hands on them AGAIN over here AND help bring precious Caleb home forever! Hurry cause they are going quick!

Check out my friend Sarah's Blog they are having an online auction to raise funds to bring their sweet one home from China! There is lots of great stuff to bid on!

Then there is this cute family. Also fund raising but quite possibly one of the most unique fund raisers I've seen. This mama wrote an e-photography course to raise funds for their adoption! Check it out!!

13 Years Ago Today....

2011-08-23T16:25:00.002-04:00

I walked into St. Vincents Hospital in Portland, OR and exactly 1 hour 28 minutes later I was a mother for the second time. Skyler, I'm proud to be your mom, so blessed that God entrusted you to your Dad and I.

Yes its true, you started out the most colicky baby I've ever seen, you still hold that record in my book buddy! You challenged me as a new mommy, you tried my patience, and there were days I just cried with you. As you grew into toddler hood you were pure joy, the happiest, most easy going little guy ever. I wasn't sure what people were talking about when they said terrible two's. You were fantastic! Over the years your easy going personality has remained; yet you aren't short on opinions. :)

Watching you grow up into the young man God has called you to be is one of my greatest joys. Seeing you figure out what you believe, how to clearly articulate that and standing firm in it is an honor. Your kind heart, gentleness, and care for others is a testimony of our King. You are such a hard worker and I can't wait to see what God has in store for you this year.

Just for fun.......a walk back in time....

Just Born!

5 Days Old.

Your Big Sister Loves you!

You had some SERIOUS Kramer hair going on for awhile. I didn't want to cut it because you were so little.

You loved hiding in the cupboards!

You were a mama's boy - yes that is absolutely OKAY!

Dad was always your favorite for the rough housing.

Gramma played dress up with you and Nichol then surprised Daddy and I with sweet pictures.

The only time I think I've ever seen Dad in a cowboy hat!

You helped Gilmer drive the tractor.

We always had fun at the beach! You loved being buried in the sand.

Family camp with Gramma and Dzetha was so much fun, we all went on the canoe, you loved it!

Your kindergarten year you had your first girlfriend. Sweet Maddy, she was taller then you but you were such a gentleman, you were two peas in a pod.

Meeting your little sister for the first time.In DC this year for our summer vacation.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SKYLER!!! WE LOVE YOU!

Miscellany Monday - The Better Late Then Never Edition.

2011-08-22T22:41:00.008-04:00

1. Today was the first day of school.

2. I'll be 37 when my daughter graduates from high school. I think I aged 5 years today upon this realization.

3. We have a new favorite book in this house. My brilliant sister in law was one of the page layout chicks. The kids love that fact and always point out her name in the fine print of the book.

4. That favorite book is called "City Of Hamburgers" and speaks of funny things. The other night as I finished the book and kissed little Zahra's head she giggled and said "I love that Hamburger book" I said I liked it too. She threw her arms around me and said "I love you mommy Hamburger". You should totally read the book. ;0)

5. Silas' first day of school was fantastic. He let us know that "Mith Dixthin likes hands" after asking him if he got in trouble. He said he often forgot to raise his hand. :) Did I mention that he has an incredible black woman for his teacher? Yes and she is just precious.

6. A boy talked to my daughter at school today. An "older" boy. Her dad asked her if she knew how to "handle" those types. She said absolutely. I asked her 25 questions just to make sure.

7. My youngest daughter often has conversations like this with us. Silas, Olivia no go to bed. Zahra haveta go to bed. Olivia, Silas no takea nap, Zahra always uh takea nap. What for? Or how another one. Zahra no go to school. Nichol go to school, Silas go to school, Olivia go to school. Zahra no go to school. Life is pretty unfair.

Before:

8. Silas lost 4 teeth in four days. The tooth fairy is broke. He's now toothless and has gained a really cute lisp. I guess I should mention I also cut his hair. :)

After:

9. So I had jury duty today. I wasn't chosen to sit through the trial (thanks to having a four year old that needed her mama) but it sure was a good day spent meeting new people and listening to lawyers ask the same question 45 different ways. (nothing against lawyers, just speaking the truth in regards to my experience today) ;)

Okay so this is now the LATE LATE LATE edition. Over and out. Have a FAB Tuesday!

Reckless Abandon 2012/Ordinary Hero!

2011-08-19T00:01:00.001-04:00

We are SO excited to announce our return to Ethiopia in 2012! My husband is leading a missions trip back to the country we love so much. The trip is sponsored by our church (LifeBridge) and we have quite a few people that are planning on going.

While in Ethiopia the dudes will be hosting a leadership training for pastors/leaders in the area. The chicks will be doing a VBS style ministry with children in the area. We'll have a construction project of some sort, many of the details are still being ironed out but we trust that God will cover those details.

I can't wait to go back, I miss Africa like crazy and can't wait to see what God is going to do in and through this team.

With all of the excitement of this upcoming trip there are some very real needs financially and practically to make this happen. In order to help as many people as possible to go on this trip we've done several fund raisers as a whole. So far God has provided in huge ways, we've been blessed as a team to watch His provision. In keeping with that theme we've teamed up with Ordinary Hero to sell T-shirts and Gear! 40% of those sales go directly to our church Mission Fund! This weekend we have the unique opportunity to win an ADDITIONAL $500 grant towards our trip! (JUST IN we have until the 28th to sell the MOST gear!!)

How does it work?!

This weekend only (starting at Midnight Friday morning) there is a contest that awards a $500 grant to the top THREE sellers! Yes that means we could have additional $500 towards our mission fund! How cool is that?!?! Several members of the team have NEVER been to Ethiopia!! This is a great opportunity to not only get some AWESOME gear but also benefit our mission team!

Look at these SUPER CUTE SHIRTS!!!!

Here's the link to the OH store:
http://www.ordinaryherostore.org/cart.html

***Don't forget to select Reckless Abandon 2012 from the affiliate drop down menu***

I know they are launching a new fall line as well so look for an updated posts with my FAVORITE picks!! HAPPY SHOPPING!!!!

Zahra-ism's.

2011-08-13T11:35:00.000-04:00

Zahra is a competitive little gal. Nichol was commenting the other day that she's super sweet, but once she warms up she doesn't want to miss a thing! Its so true! If someone else got something there better be a REAL good reason why she didn't too. However if she gets something its really not a big deal if no one else did. :)

I don't want to forget the cute things she says and I know all too soon they will be just a memory.

We've managed to keep Zahra's birthday on the down low - mean mom award ahead - but I just didn't want to tell her about her birthday too soon for fear of the daily pestering I'd get. Now that its less then three weeks away I figured I should school her in knowing her date of birth, full name, age, parents names, etc. You know build up to the big day. The big kids blew my cover and told her it was her birthday in sixteen days so I've been hearing about it non-stop!

So far her answers to my tutelage look something like this.

Mom, mom; my name is Zahra Raim Shubin, you name is Mommy Raim Shubin. Fab baby girl fab.

Little Miss proudly holds up three fingers while shouting that she is four!

A few nights ago she gushed that her birthday was August twenty minutes.

For her birthday she wants "long it hair like a mommy's and Olivia's and Nichol's".

Little Z we love you. Your innocence is precious and your zeal for life amazing. I'm honored that I get to be your mommy.

Miscellany Monday

2011-08-08T16:50:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my hodge podge of thoughts. Its been a crazy week. My brain is cluttered. This is what I got. Happy Monday!

1. My youngest daughter is learning new things every day. Its awesome to watch her learn and discover. Hearing her figure out how to speak English is sweet. Instead of Shhhh to get someone to be quiet she says Ooosh Ooosh. I hope that never goes away. She holds her own. Last night she said this to her big brother. "Skyler, uh stop it uh talking, Zahra is uh talking". Sassy Pants.

2. School prep is under way. I prefer summer. Just sayin'.

3. Baby showers are cool and Adoption rocks - online adoption showers are totally hip! Check out the one these sweet friends are throwing for the Dinsmore family!!! Donate, get a chance at an awesome camera and help bring precious A home!

4. I made this over the weekend - its pretty fantastic. You should make it too. I added lime juice for some extra zing, no garlic salt but I did add sea salt and fresh ground pepper.

5. I am a fan of good wine and good cheese. I am looking forward to the cooler months when I can sit outside and enjoy these two things and not have the cheese melt into a heap.

6. I'm doing crafts with my girls this week. We're making some of my Pinterest finds. Like this. Yep. Can't wait.

7. I'm in a wardrobe funk. I need some new cute stylish ideas. Please post your favorites for me to consider. Please and thank you. Oh if you find a mustard yellow cardigan that doesn't cost my first born please link it up. :) See above.

I saw what I saw - Swag for a Cause

2011-08-05T11:40:00.006-04:00

After several confused emails from people who want to help and want shirts I've decided to streamline a bit. Comment on what you want - pay via paypal by adding them to your cart, all you have to do is note what color you want or leave that in the comments here. Its a hodge podge of stuff so its hard to put it all in a paypal button.

I took this from our last T-shirt blitz - it still applies here. ALL proceeds will be donated to A Glimmer of Hope to help fund the aid going into the horn of Africa.

T-Shirts - $25 shipped
Long Sleeve T-Shirts - $30 shipped
Baseball T's - $35 shipped
Sweatshirts - $40 shipped
Ugandan Beaded Necklaces - $25 shipped
Hats - $20 shipped

Here's What I have in stock and ready to ship, pictures are above the sizes/styles/colors available. All of this is in stock so yes I feel a bit overwhelmed. Many of these are one of a kind, I messed with colors/styles and we won't be doing T-shirts again anytime soon!

The shirts pictured above are the shirts our family wore the day Zahra came home. The globe is surrounded by the words daughter, son, father, mother, family, sister, brother, and more relating to children being orphans no more! For us Africa is where God lead us to adopt so that is highlighted with a bulls eye, above all we're driven because of His great love for us which is also on the front. Silas shows the back in this picture, it says All For One and One For All. Then over Africa are the same words that are on the front but in amharic the primary language in Ethiopia.

Hooded Sweatshirts
Charcoal Gray Size L, XL (unisex runs true to size or a bit big)

Baseball T's (runs true to size)
Indigo Sleeves Size L, L

T- Shirts
Youth Charcoal Size - S (6-8)
Fitted Womens Red Size - L
Fitted Womens Wine Size - XL

My husband designed this shirt - its pretty much awesome! Seeing it IN ACTION make its all the more cool. The Front says "If There Is No Action" and on the back is "Shut Your Pie Hole" and the verse "Faith without deeds is dead". An original design, it was born due to some heavy critiques early in our process, around the same time as our Audience of One shirts were designed. This one a bit bolder, we love it! I have it in black and charcoal gray as well as sweatshirts.

Sweatshirts
* Black Hooded Sweatshirt Size XL

T-Shirts
*Womens Unisex Black Size - S, S, M, L
*Mens Unisex Black Size - M, L, L, XL
*Mens Unisex Charcoal Gray Size - S, M, M, L, L, XL
*Mens Unisex Black Long Sleeve Size - L, L

Audience of One T's! Africa - Audience of One all around shaping Africa and the verse Isaiah 1:17 - I have black with light blue and teal or black with red/white.

Back

Front

T-Shirts -
*Black w/ Teal Unisex Womens Size - S
*White w/Teal Fitted Womens Size - XL
*Black w/Red/White Fitted Womens Size - XL
*Black w/Red/White Unisex Womens Size - L, XL
*Toddler Burnout T Red/White Size - 4T

Our first design was this T! A globe with the bulls eye on Africa, Orphan facts from around the world, and on the back "Where You Live Should Not Determine If You Live" which fits perfectly with this campaign!

T-Shirts
(Unisex=True to size, Slim Fit=Juniors fit, Fitted runs a size small)

Mens Unisex Royal Blue Size - L
Mens Long Sleeve Olive Size - L
Mens Unisex Gray Long Sleeve Size - L
Unisex Burnout Long Sleeve Black Size - M
Fitted Womens Indigo Long sleeve Size - S, M
Womens Slim Fit Espresso Size - S, S, S, S, M, M
Womens Slim Fit Charcoal Size - S, M, M
Womens Slim Fit Indigo Size - S, M, M
Womens Slim Fit Light Blue Size - S, S, S, M
Womens Fitted Scarlett Size - S, S, S,
Womens Fitted Plum Size - S, S, S, M, M
Womens Fitted Burgundy Wine Size - S
Womens Fitted Grass Green Size - S
Womens Fitted Teal Size - S

Baseball T's (run true to size to a bit big)
Indigo Sleeves like the one pictured above - Size S, S, L, L, XL

Love Globe Hats like the one I'm wearing above - I have stone and olive - these are Alternative Brand Destroyed Military Cap - $20 shipped.

Ugandan Beaded Necklaces
Multi-Colored, GORGEOUS, super long - I only have 9! (these make GREAT gifts!)

In an effort to keep my work load down I'm doing flat pricing, you choose what you want, comment here and pay through the paypal link on the right side of the blog and I'll ship your shirt within 24 hours. Easy Peasy! THANK YOU & Happy Shopping!

T-Shirts - $25 shipped
Long Sleeve T-Shirts - $30 shipped
Baseball T's - $35 shipped
Sweatshirts - $40 shipped
Ugandan Beaded Necklaces - $25 shipped

I saw what I saw and I can't forget it.....

2011-08-04T08:49:00.004-04:00

No I'm not trying to bring shock value to what I'm going to talk about but I do want a reality check. Not just for my readers but as a reminder for myself. This is real. These are precious faces of children who desperately need our help.

I still remember the famine stories back in the 1980's I remember so vividly how my heart felt. I told my mom I wanted to go help those babies. I remember telling her I would adopt from there some day. Little did I know how prophetic that comment would be and how God would weave our story. I remember when all I wanted for my birthday was a little black baby doll and how I got one for my 8th birthday. My passion for children without parents, without food, without the things we consider basic necessities runs deep. There are days I wish I didn't feel so deeply. There are days I'm so grateful that I do. It would be so much easier to just pretend I don't know. But I do and I can't ignore it. God calls us to care for the orphan and widow and I do believe that means ALL of us. In some way. Some fashion.

Hearing most recently that there is a horrible drought in Eastern Africa has me broken. This hits hard. Not only because I've seen the hurt, the pain, and the reality that is life in Ethiopia for so many. I can't stop there - I've also seen the joy. The joy in the midst of great pain. A joy that is unexplainable when circumstances are so horrible. A joy only God could give. I want that joy no matter what my circumstances.

Recently I watched the promo video for Katie Davis' new book. (you can watch it below) This is a young woman who is daily, faithfully living out the call God has on her life. She puts it so clearly when talking about obeying God and loving her neighbor as herself. She states: "myself doesn't want to be starving, so I don't want others to starve." Its quite simple really. Its just not something we often want to think about. Or we make excuses. Its pretty clear in the bible, for me its simple. Mark 12 - And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is the most important of all?" Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment.

Love Jesus, the gospel, and others.

I want to be the hands and feet of Jesus to a people I love so deeply. This drought is killing children, babies, families. Those children could have been my children. We can help. Each of us. I know there are many many organizations who are helping but there is one that we have chosen to partner with and donate through. A Glimmer Of Hope.

Why Glimmer? Mainly because 100% of the donations go right to the relief efforts. Glimmer is partnering with NGO's on the ground to make the biggest impact on the drought relief.

Here's how you can help. Donate directly here. Any amount helps. Give up Starbucks and donate what you would have spent. Anything. We still have shirts left. If you buy a shirt we'll donate every penny from that sale to Glimmer of Hope's Relief Fund. The back of our shirts fit in perfect to support this campaign.

We can't ignore this reality. How will you help?

Rescue the perishing;
don't hesitate to step in and help.
If you say, "Hey, that's none of my business,"
will that get you off the hook?
Someone is watching you closely, you know—
Someone not impressed with weak excuses. Prov. 24:12 msg

Misc Monday! Post Vacay Edition.

2011-08-01T18:13:00.000-04:00

1. When you travel to DC from Florida with five children including one who has never sat in a car for hours upon hours things could get interesting. A few of those things will be shared below in no particular order.

2. South Carolina has a higher humidity then Florida and they have bigger mosquitoes that attack you the moment you step outside no matter what time of day it is. I have the bites to prove it.

3. I understand the reasoning behind automatic toilet flushing however I do not understand why there is no time to put a seat cover down prior to its flushing making for an awkward time in the tiny little stall and nearly no room for any sort of sanitary operating with a four year old in tow. Seriously not a fun time for this germaphob mother. (although I will say it wasn't as bad as this moment I wrote about here)

4. I love Trader Joes. We don't have one in FL but there was one on the way home in VA and I begged and pleaded with my main man to let me shop. He obliged but didn't anticipate the full grocery cart I rolled out with. I sure didn't hear any complaints as he ate the Tahitian Vanilla Caramels. Oh and by the way if you live near one and want to send me a gift? Those are my new favorite. Speaking of favorites what do you love from TJ's? Edamame Hummus is another one of my favorites......I have quite a list running.....please share yours so I can add them to my must try list. :)

Pinterest - people if you aren't on Pinterest you need to be. Really its pretty addicting. Okay lets keep it real - its HIGHLY addicting but you should still join cause its fun and there's some great ideas on there. Be warned. Oh if you need an invite to the addiction let me know. ;)
6. I often wonder how much Zahra understands right now because I'm not always sure if she gets what I'm saying and I want to give grace as she adapts to our family. One thing I am certain of.....the child understands humor and she can dish out the sarcasm. On our drive to DC David was quizzing the kids on some historical facts and there was one they couldn't remember precisely. After a few different answers from everyone else Zahra said loudly - Guys.....its JESUS!!! LOL! She was so proud. :)

7. You should have seen the looks we got as we walked through museums and down the streets of DC with two strollers and five walkers. People are just funny. Our kids were awesome, we had an AMAZING time, and we did it all on a budget. Big bonus!

Still Alive......Just Hanging Out Here.......

2011-07-27T08:45:00.003-04:00

A last minute, been wanting to do it forever working vacay! I'm still managing to keep up with all my amazing clients and hanging with my sweet family! We're having a BLAST, we love DC, have seen tons and still have a few more days here. Stopping in Charleston on the way here to visit our precious friends was amazing! More on the trip next week!

Many People Participated.....

2011-07-12T22:08:00.002-04:00

1 iPad. 6 Days. 491 Entries.

Many donations, Multiple posts on facebook and blogs.

I know I can speak for the Masers when I say that they are so INCREDIBLY thankful.

Several have asked how much was raised and I am blown away and completely blessed to watch everyone participate and be a part of little Calebs story.

A total of $3,494.00 was raised in SIX days!! That's not counting the fact that Lifesong is doubling a portion of those funds. Glory to the King of Kings!!! The Masers now have just under $1700 left to be fully funded!!! What an AMAZING God we serve!!

Oh but I'm guessing you want to know who the winner is!!! :) :) :) Just one more thing.....you'll have to watch the video to find out!

CONGRATULATIONS to the WINNER! :)

The Road Less Travelled

Miscellany Tuesday!

In Honor of Dr. King

Reckless Abandon T-Shirt Pre-Order! LAST DAY!!!

T-Shirt Pre-Order FINAL WEEKEND!!!

Final Day of $12/12 People/12 Days!

Cookie Cutters & Beaded Necklaces!

Africa Cookie Cutters & T-Shirt Pre-Orders

Weekend Sale!!

Uganda Beaded Necklaces AGAIN!

Moments In Target.

T-Shirt Pre-Sale Ends Soon!

12 people. $12. 12 Days. 2012.

Post Christmas Travel Words of Wisdom.

Merry CHRISTmas!

ET Air BOGO SALE Q&A

Reckless Abandon 2012 - and THE T-shirt!

Happy Referralversary Kids!

12th Day of Christmas $10 SUPER SALE!!!!!!!!

10/11 Days of Christmas!

Simply Love/Audience of ONE on this 9th Day of Christmas Celebration!

12 Days of Christmas Continues!

On the 7th Day of Christmas..........

Lifesong & The 6th Day of Christmas.........

Misc. Monday and Day 5!

Day 4 of The 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza!

Happy Birthday Silas!!!! 12 Days of Christmas Continues!

Twelve Days Of Christmas - Day 2!

12 Days of Christmas............

Africa Cookie Cutters & Ugandan Beaded Necklaces!

Terrific Tuesday!

A Long Time Coming.

TRUTH.

Orphan Sunday.

WINNER!!!!!!!!! **UPDATED**

Miscellany Monday!

Noonday & A GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!!!!

Totally Thursday (Miscellany Monday's Sister)

While They Wait.

Miscellany Monday

Calling All Prayer Warriors.

She Calls Me Mama.

Guest Blogger: Adami Tulu

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #1:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #2:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #3:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #4:

Hyatt Stay Giveaway #5:

Miscellany Monday

Miscellany Monday

One Less.........

Miscellany Monday

Created 4 Care!

ET Air BOGO Sale!!

More Zahraism's

Back To School!

Happy Birthday Zahra Reign!!!!!

24 Hours. Reckless Abandon. Cute Shirts!

Adoption. Fund Raising. Children. Families.

Giving To Others.

13 Years Ago Today....

Miscellany Monday - The Better Late Then Never Edition.

Reckless Abandon 2012/Ordinary Hero!

Zahra-ism's.

Miscellany Monday

I saw what I saw - Swag for a Cause

I saw what I saw and I can't forget it.....

Misc Monday! Post Vacay Edition.

Still Alive......Just Hanging Out Here.......

Many People Participated.....

WINNER!!!!!!!!! UPDATED