I have a waiting child list.

I received this e-mail and have been asked to spread the word. I'm not sure how to link the list as it is a pdf file so if you know anyone who would like to see it please e-mail me and I will send it right away. (bay moose @ comcast.net please remove spaces) They are trying to get these children fast-tracked and into homes ASAP. Please spread the word to anyone and everyone. Let's get these children to their Forever Families.


"Families,

Attached is a new updated list of children. Please pass this list on to anyone you think may be considering a waiting child.

Waiting Children

Shared Agency Program

Small World is pleased to announce that we have received permission by the China Center of Adoption Affairs (CCAA) to place additional children who are waiting! This group of children will be "shared" by adoption agencies that have been approved for this program. This program is separate from Small World's already established Waiting Child program.

Most of these children are older and are "non-special needs". There are also younger children who may have multiple or more "serious" needs.

The process for the adoption of these children and the CCAA guidelines for qualifications of the parents will be the same as our Small World agency-specific list except for the following:

* This group of children will be constantly changing with new children being added by CCAA.
* We will be updating the list of children as new children are added or "matched".
* We are only giving a very brief description of the child and the needs. A complete file and more pictures are available for each of them.
* We can place a child on hold with CCAA for only 24 hours.
* We will not know if families outside of Small World are interested in a child and will not be able to place a child on "hold" if another agency has done so.
* Families will need to make sure that they are comfortable with the child's medical situation before or during the "hold".
* The family will need to move quickly through the submission of the Letter of Intent to Adopt. (LOI)
* The dossier will need to be completed quickly as it must be submitted to CCAA within 6 months of the family receiving the Pre-Approval (PA) from CCAA for the adoption of this child or the child's file will go back on the list.
* Families who are unable to complete a dossier within this period of time should not request more information on these children until they are close to completion or dossier ready.

Please contact Kathy (kathy@swa.net 509-892-6789) if you would like more information on this program or any of the children."

Janell Lucas
Small World Adoptions
Washington Office
9201 S. Madison Rd. Valleyford, WA 99036
509-892-6789
j.lucas@swa.net

100 Wishes Quilt

This evening in the mail we found SiJi's first 100 Wishes Quilt square. Thank you so much Kevin and Kathy. We are so thrilled to have the same LID as you. Sorry about the bad quality pictures. Something isn't going right latley with the operator of the camera. :-) I would love to swap if anyone is interested.

Light Hearted Friday

I was going to wait until Tuesday to post this, but I felt like something a little light hearted might be in order for the end of the week.

Three years ago on February 12 I received the best gift my husband has ever given me. Her name is Sierra Valentine. She has been such a joy and what a wonderful distraction from the infertility/adoption process. I can't imagine my life without her. We have our moments of frustration mainly due to her barking at the doorbell or knocking on the front door, but other than that she is really a dream dog who goes and does everything with us. She will always be my first child in a way and I can't imagine the love I will have for my daughter if I love my dog this much. I'm afraid my heart might burst. Thank you my husband for being such a wonderful loving husband and giving me a gift that has brought me so much joy. I love you.

Thank you for your prayers

This was taken from Daleea's blog Jewels of My Heart
If you have time can you please leave her a comment on her blog. I think she could use some sweet words of encouragement.

"Thank you all for your prayers... please keep praying for the people and families that are suffering right now. out of 102 people working last night at the plant over 40 were hospitalized, more than 30 of those people are in critical condition. They have found 6 bodies so far and 17 are still unaccounted for. I thank Jesus that I am able to look over and see my husband next to me...
It was really bad and these families desparately need our prayers. I can't really say much now... I just wanted to thank you all and update on this oh, so sad situation.
May God Bless You and Keep You From Harm's Way....
Hug each member of your family today..... tell them that you love them.... you just never know if you will ever get to tell them that again..."

Immediate Prayer Needed.

Update from Daleea:
"Now they are saying that 32 people have been injured critically. There are 9 people unaccounted for. It is so terrible but I thank God that there were not as many people as seriously injured as they first thought. Thank you for your prayers and please keep praying for these people and their families. Thank You Jesus that Jeremy is ok... Please help and comfort those who are injured and their families... please be with them."

My dear friend Daleea has just written for prayer and has posted details on Jewels of My Heart.
There has been an explosion where her husband works tonight. He is okay, but there could be as many as 200 people hurt. Here is the first story I found on it. Please also go to Daleea's blog for more information as her husband has been able to call a couple of times.

By Associated Press

PORT WENTWORTH, Ga. (AP) - An explosion shook a sugar refinery Thursday night, starting a fire and injuring dozens of people in a blast felt throughout this Savannah suburb, authoritie said. No deaths were immediately reported.

There was no immediate word on what caused the blast at the Imperial Sugar plant, formerly Dixie Crystals, a Savannah landmark. A witness described widespread damage.

Sgt. Mike Wilson, spokesman for the Savannah-Chatham County police, reported an unconfirmed number of injuries, "well over 50 to 100 at this point."

Nakishya Hill, a machine operaator who said she escaped from the third floor of the refinery, near the Savannah River, described fire "all over the building."

"All I know is, I heard a loud boom and everything came down," said Hill, who was uninjured except for blisters on her elbow.

"When I got up, I went down and found a couple of people and we climbed out of there from the third floor to the first floor. Half of the floor was gone. The second floor was debris, the first floor was debris.

"All I could do when I got down was take off running," she said.

Imperial Sugar, based in Sugar Land, Texas, acquired Savannah Foods & Industries, which produced Dixie Crystals, in 1997. The acquisition doubled the size of the company, making it the largest processor and refiner of sugar in the country, according to the company Web site.

Imperial markets some of the country's leading consumer brands - Imperial, Dixie Crystals and Holly - as well as supplying sugar and sweetener products to industrial food manufacturers.

My First Gray or is it Grey Hair.

Okay, so however you spell it, it doesn't change the fact that I have one! I just noticed something while doing my hair. I know it is late to be doing my hair, but that isn't the point.

I HAVE MY FIRST GRAY/GREY HAIR!

I don't color my hair anymore, but I think I better get started again. Anyone have a good home brand of color...I'm adopting and can't afford the salon. :-) HELP. Don't worry, I'm really not that freaked out about it. I just know I am going to be all grey when we get SiJi. lol

Starfish Newsletter

GONG XI FA CAI FROM STARFISH!!!! The Year of the Mouse QUICK LINKS Register Now Last Month's Newsletter More About Us Dear April, I am writing to you rather late since Chinese New Year started last night in China. There is no doubt about that if you are living in China. The fire works exploded all through the night and as I am writing this it sounds like there are bombs going off all around me. We took a few pictures of the babies and I would like to thank Emily and Chris for their help. So here is a little bit more about this the most important holiday is the Chinese Calendar. On new years day it is very important to make jiao zi (pot stickers) and that is what we had for lunch. The is also the red envelops which are given by employers to employees and parents to younger children. When you get older then you give your parents a red envelope. As you might know the Chinese have 12 years in which different animals are represented and this is the year of the mouse of the rat. Here is some information from a website about this element of Chinese Culture: Though the Western rat is reviled as little more than a bottom-dwelling disease carrier, this animal is viewed much differently in the East. The Eastern rat is revered for its quick wits and its ability to accrue and hold on to items of value; rats are considered a symbol of good luck and wealth in both China and Japan. Clever and quick-witted, the Rat of the Chinese Zodiac is utterly disarming to boot. Possessed of excellent taste, this Sign flaunts its style at every turn. Its natural charm and sharp, funny demeanor make it an appealing friend for almost anyone. The Rat likes to know who is on its side and will treat its most loyal friends with an extra measure of protection and generosity. I mention this because you will see the photos have mice in them. Another photo opportunity for us. The babies looked so cute. I had some more Chinese outfits but I could not find them. I have not been keeping all the CNY things together and that is a big mistake. I will have to do a better job at that. Life, Love and Laughter, Amanda Starfish Foster Home www.chinesestarfish.org http://chinesestarfish.blogspot.com

Happy Chinese New Year!

Xin Nian Kuai Le

I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Chinese New Year! Please continue to pray for the people in China. My heart aches for them and for our daughter that is more than likely born and somewhere in China right now. If you would like to donate to help babies that need food, diapers, warm clothes etc. please follow your heart and the link below.

Being Still Continued!

The Lord is continuing to show Himself to me today. My friend Paula sent me a link to a blogger that is adopting from China and Ethiopia. The following the most recent post from Baby Hoffman. The Lord always provides strength for the journey if we will just allow Him. I think I need to be still. I'm getting the point I think. :-)

The Rewards of Waiting...

Written by Tymm at 11:51 PM

"I have had the following excerpt sitting on my desk for - gosh - I dunno how long. A long time. I have been meaning to post it over and over and over - and for some reason I just never have.

I am not 100% sure where it even came from - probably from an adoption meeting or get-together or handout or something - because the content is all too relevant. Regardless of where it came from or how long I have sat and stared at it - I am now going to post it. Mostly because I need to read it.

---

We've all been forced to wait in doctors' offices, traffic jams, and checkout lines. During those times, we have nothing to do but try to be patient.

In God's Kingdom, waiting is defined as an "active stillness." We should be active because we are continuing in our present situation. And, we need to be still because we are focusing our attention on Him for guidance. Practicing a lifestyle of active stillness requires a purposeful and expectant attitude, a patient and determined frame of mind, and a prayerful and obedient heart.

There are rewards for waiting on the Lord. We receive the supernatural energy and strength we need for godly living. At times, when responsibilities overwhelm us, we might be tempted to get out of step with God. Even though we know He's calling us to keep a steady pace, we may fall behind. At other times, our schedules leave us little time to think. So, we make quick decisions, pushing ahead of Him. In either case, we risk becoming tired and emotionally spent because we are operating in our own strength.

Patiently waiting on God brings us the physical energy and emotional reserves we need to keep going. Being patient also enables us to discover His will, which is always for our good (Romans 8:28). We also gain spiritual victory over our trials and disappointments.

Our all-knowing and all-powerful God is always on time. But we often leave too early or arrive too late. Pick a situation in which you're tempted to overrule God's perfect timing. Then submit to Him, realizing the issue is a matter of trust.

---

Hits pretty darn close to home for those of us smack dab in the middle of an international adoption. Or two. I need to read this again and again and remember that a good chunk of the reward is found within the journey.

And I don't want to miss out on any of it."

The power has gone out twice while trying to post this...I hope I can get it out there. :-)

Being Still

This morning I woke up in a "tired of waiting" mood. The Lord has been ever so faithful in providing what I needed right when it was needed. Thank you Lord, You are so faithful. Please forgive my lack of trusting and being still. Amen.

“You will not leave in haste.” (Isa. 52:12.)

I do not believe that we have begun to understand the wonderful power there is in being still. We are in such a hurry, always doing, that we are in danger of not allowing God the opportunity to work. You may be sure that God will never says to us, “Stand still,” or “Sit still,” or “Be still,” unless He is going to do something. This our problem regarding the Christian life; we want to do something to be Christians, instead of allowing Him to work in us.

Think of how still you stand when your picture is being taken, as the photographer captures your likeness on film. God has one eternal purpose for us: that we should be "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Rom. 8:29). But in order for that to happen, we must stand still. We hear so much today about being active, but maybe we need to learn what it means to be quiet. --- from Crumbs.

Sit still, my daughter! Just sit calmly still! Nor deem these days-these waiting days-as ill! The One who loves thee best, who plans thy way, Hath not forgotten thy great need today! And, if He waits, ‘tis sure He waits to prove To thee, His tender child, His heart’s deep love.

Sit still, my daughter! Just sit calmly still! Thou longest much to know thy dear Lord’s will! While anxious thoughts would almost steal their way Corrodingly within, because of His delay- Persuade thyself in simple faith to rest That He, who knows and loves, will do the best.

Sit still, my daughter! Just sit calmly still! Not move one step, not even one, until His way hath opened. Then, ah then, how sweet! How glad thy heart, and then how swift thy feet Thy inner being then, ah then, how strong! And waiting days not counted then too long.

Sit still, my daughter! Just sit calmly still! What higher service could’st thou for Him fill? ‘Tis hard! Ah yes! But choicest things must cost! For lack of losing all how much is lost! ‘Tis hard, ‘tis true! But then-He giveth grace To count the hardest spot the sweetest place.
--- J. Danson Smith. Taken from Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman

Book Suggestions

I'm in need of a good book. I'm in the middle of a couple which are good, but I want something that really gets to the heart of the Christian woman and mother to be. I want something that encourages and provides growth. Does anyone have a really good suggestion(s)? Can't wait to hear the suggestions and get to reading. Thanks.

Okay, revised it doesn't have to fall into those categories...I just want something really good. :-)

Urgent Help and Prayer Needed in China

If you have been watching the news you know that China is getting hit with massive storms that are causing so many problems. There are several orphanages that are either without or very low on heat, food, diapers, blankets etc. Half the Sky Foundation is taking donations and getting these items for the children. If you go to their website you can see all the areas that are really affected and what is needed. If you can help in anyway big or small, please don't hesitate. Above all please pray for these people! Souls are lost, dying, cold and hungry. Please pray for the underground churches in China that they will be able to help.

"The storm struck 19 out of 31 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in the Chinese
mainland, Xinhua said. It has been blamed for 63 deaths -- 25 of them when a bus slipped off a mountain in icy conditions in southwestern Guizhou province." CNN statement.

You can also visit Chinese Starfish for an account of what is happening from Amanda.

What Flower are you?

I am an Echinacea "You are a health conscious person, both your health and the health of others. You know all about the health benefits and dangers of the world around you." What Flower Are You?

No glass left unbroken...my new motto...or at least it seems

Since September (more like 9/25 our LID) I have been on a breaking streak. Now I will admit that I have broken my fair share of stuff in my lifetime, but for pity sake this is out of control. Let me explain...this is what I have broken since September that I remember. I'm sure my hubby will leave a comment on all the other stuff I've forgotten about.

- 7 juice glasses (yes, I said seven)
- 3 salad plates
- 2 dinner plates
- 1 soup bowl
- small bathroom mirror
- I really don't have any make-up anymore (so I look a mess)
- numerous hangers (I say they are old and brittle)
- 4 plastic cups (yup, you got it PLASTIC)
- 1 very special tea cup (that was yesterday)
- 1 shot glass (not used for alcohol and that was today)
- 2 dog bowls
- couple jars (mostly full) of condiments from the fridge
- a dozen eggs all at the same time

And to top it off Friday my glasses decided to come apart. I know what you are thinking and Cost*co confirmed that it was a default with the frames so I got them replaced and then yesterday the arm broke off again. Needless to say I'm going with a different pair of glasses.

I'm begging to think this adoption is going to be the death of all things breakable. Instead of a baby shower I think someone is going to have to think outside the box and do a not-your-wedding shower for us. :-)

I sure hope this ends soon, at least before we get our daughter. Hey I've been trying to get rid of most of our stuff in our house, but I was hoping to give it to charity not fill the overflowing landfills. :-(

For anyone who has considered Adopting

Tag I'm It

I've been tagged by Paula (The Baby Journals - private) to post 7 things about myself. The rules are to link the person who sent this to you and leave a comment on their blog so their readers can visit yours. Post the rules on your blog. Share 7 strange/weird facts about yourself. Tag 7 random people at the end of your post, linking their blog. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Random facts about myself:

1. My dog growing up was part wolf from Alaska.
2. I pass up going to China (all expenses paid) for a whole summer after 7th grade. Too afraid to leave my Mom.
3. Stitches creep me out. They look like spider legs coming out of your body.
4. Afraid of spiders.
5. I had 98 worts all over my body as a kid (I'm thankful for laser surgery).
6. I'm a catch and release fly fisherwoman who has to thank and kiss the fish before returning it to the water.
7. I was Valedictorian of my class...that doesn't say much there were only two of us.

I tag you ladies in no certain order:
Jewels of My Heart
Twin Chatter
Salsa in China
At The End of the Red Thread
Eggrolls and Chopsticks
Making a House a Home
Oatsvall Team

You're It!

Adoption Video China

Adoption1
Uploaded by ludo

Breanna's Surgery Update.

I just realized I didn't tell you how much I am trying to raise for Breanna's surgery. The doctor estimates it will be $4,000 to $5,000 and I set the goal for $5,000. There has been $1,025 donated so far in Breanna's name. Thank you Dad and Mom and Paula. If the amount raised is more than $5,000 that money will be put into a surgery fund for other babies that need surgery. I am so thankful for every penny that can be donated and it will be used so wisely. I received an e-mail from the people collecting the funds that said, "Again, thank you for what you are doing -- you are going to save Breanna's life"! I would like to pass that along to everyone who donates. You are going to save Breanna's life...THANK YOU!

Donate Now

For Breanna's Heart From Mine

I would love to present you with Breanna.

Breanna is a little girl living in China right now that needs a heart surgery. She is living with a very amazing giving woman named Amanda. Amanda has dedicated her life to helping very young special needs babies by running a foster home in China. Starfish Foster Home's mission is:

• To identify high risk babies who need immediate care and bring them to the foster home.
• Prepare each infant for surgery through a nutritional program and loving, personal care.
• Provide after-surgery care at the foster home.
• Keep detailed records to give to each adoptive family, with as many pictures as possible.
• Prepare adoption dossiers for the CCAA as soon as possible.
• Provide support for adoptive families to facilitate bonding.

I have been reading Amanda's blog for months now and hold a lot of respect for her and what she is doing. On December 19th I saw Breanna for the first time. I decided to inquire more about her, and after doing so I learned she needs heart surgery to correct a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) a hole in her ventricular. She will be having the surgery the end of February or beginning of March once she is healthy enough to undergo surgery. I have decided to volunteer t0 help raise the money for her operation.

Starfish Foster Home is a small non-profit foster home and is giving so much to these precious little ones. I know it might seem strange to some that I would try so hard for just one child, but she isn't 'just one child', she is a special little girl that deserves a fixed heart. You have heard the joke about how do you eat an elephant...one bite at a time. This is how I feel I feel I can make a difference...one child at a time.

This is a well known story that a friend reminded me of last night that sums it up. You will also find this story on Starfish's site.

An older man was walking along a beach when he saw a young boy. Along the shore were many starfish that had been washed up by the tide and were sure to die before the tide returned. The boy was walking slowly along the shore and occasionally reached down and tossed a beached starfish back into the ocean.

The older man, hoping to teach the boy a little lesson in common sense, walked up to the boy and said, "I have been watching what you are doing, son. You have a good heart, and I know you mean well, but do you realize how many beaches there are around here and how many starfish are dying on every beach every day? Surely, such an industrious and kindhearted boy such as yourself could find something better to do with your time. Do you really think that what you are doing is going to make a difference?"

The boy looked up at that man, and then he looked down at a starfish by his feet. He picked up the starfish, and as he gently tossed it back into the ocean, he said, "For this one, it makes a difference."

If you find it in your heart, would you please join me in helping Breanna get her heart fixed, because it makes a difference to her, and every gift (small or large) makes a difference.

If you would like to Donate Now you can click on the word "Donate" and it will take you to that area of Starfish Foster Home. The link is a safe and is a tax deductible way to give. If you choose to give for Breanna, please check the circle next to "on behalf of" and fill in the area below it with "Breanna's Heart Surgery". This section looks like the following:

Gift Information:
I'd like to make this donation
on behalf of in memory of

Please send acknowledgement of this gift to:


Amanda will be with Breanna when she has her surgery and will be sending me updates of when the surgery will be and updates about how the surgery went. I will be posting any new information I get. Feel free to pass this along to anyone and everyone you know.

It Rains ALL the Time

This is for all those out there who think it rains ALL the time here. I think those people have never lived here. Obviously, it rains all the time...I can't stand it. :-)

The mountain range is in Canada and this is only a pea size piece of the range. I will try to get a picture of the full range soon. I just took these pictures about 15 min. ago. Sorry couldn't resist another post with more pictures of the mountains. The big deal is the fact that they a lot of the time have clouds all around them or fog, but today is probably the clearest I have seen them. Where we live we get tons of days like today. I thought I was moving to the rain.

The bottom picture is taken from me standing at my kitchen sink. Cleaning the kitchen really isn't so bad.

Warning Post

I am making this post first so no one gets the idea we got a referral when I finish my next post...it contains very cute pictures. I will warn you she will hopefully melt your heart, but she isn't to be ours. I bet I have you wondering what in the world I'm talking about. Keep checking back and you will find out.

View from our deck

I thought I would post this picture taken just a few minutes ago from our deck. So many of my friends are getting or have gotten snow latley. This is the only snow I will get it seems. Just a view from the deck and the kitchen sink. Obviously I am finding dishes to wash so I can enjoy the snow. If I want to get to this snow I have to do a border crossing, eh. :-)

"China Ghosts" Book Review

My husband and I just finished reading "China Ghosts" by Jeff Gammage. If
you are to only read one book about adopting from China, I think this
should be the one.  I'm not very good at writing, so I am going to
borrow a review from Lisa See:

"The most informative and heartfelt book I've read about the adoption of
girls from China. Jeff Gammage has a big and good heart, so he doesn't
shy away from the deepest emotions - positive, negative, and ambivalent
- that come with changing his family so abruptly and irrevocably." -
Lisa See, author of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and On Gold Mountain:
The One-Hundred-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family.

The book raises questions about the process and consequences of China
adoption, but answers them with the construction of a loving family and
their complete devotion to these precious children.  This book will
surface every hidden emotion you may have surrounding China adoption.

This is most assuredly a book that will be hard to put down.  We were
reading it together at night and I had to fight the impulse to read
ahead during the day.  (Don't worry honey I didn't.)

Moose Rescue

I just had to share this rescue that had a happy ending!

Kisses In The Wind

I hold you in my heart and in my dreams.

You are here each day with me, that’s how it seems.

I know you wonder where we are. It’s been so long.

Just remember child that God will keep you strong.

Now go outside, feel the breeze and let it touch your skin.

Soon you’ll have a family, I promise you again.

Miles away we wait for you, but it’s coming to an end.

But for tonight, just as always, I’ll blow you kisses in the wind.

Kisses in the wind, kisses in the wind, kisses in the wind.

May God hold you in His hands ‘til we can get to you.

I promise you that we will see you soon.

May He wrap you in His arms and hold you tight,

and let the Angels bring our kisses every night.

Now go outside, feel the breeze and let it touch your skin.

Soon you’ll have a family, I promise you again.

Miles away we wait for you, but it’s coming to an end.

But for tonight, just as always, I’ll blow you kisses in the wind.

Kisses in the wind, kisses in the wind, kisses in the wind.

by: Dale Clark

Tag Blanket

This weekend I decided to try a sewing project. I haven't touched my sewing machine for about 10 years and I figured it was high time. My first project was a tag blanket for our little girl. I had so much fun making it that I am trying to figure out how to sell them to help fund our adoption. I figure I can do them for girls, boys or unisex. I better get back to straightening up the house.

Moose

I know this article is a couple of years old, but I just love it and had to share. I love almost everything moose...except hunting stories unless it is with a camera.

Moose Hoof Goes Poof Through Roof!
A young cow moose is shown after it fell through the roof of a shed at a greenhouse in Anchorage, Alaska, Tuesday. The moose crashed through the fiberglass roof of the shed at Bell's Nursery and got stuck, dangling eight feet off the ground for three hours until rescuers got her down safely.

AP story:

Young moose walks on Alaska greenhouse roof, falls through
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - A young cow moose took a walk on a roof Tuesday and made Anchorage history.

The 8-month-old moose crashed through the fiberglass roof of a storage shed at Bell's Nursery and got stuck, dangling 8 feet off the ground for three hours until rescuers got her down safely.

Rick Sinnott, a biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game said it is thought to be the first rescue of a moose from a roof in the city's history.

"Hopefully the last too," Sinnott added.

At about 9 a.m. greenhouse owner Mike Mosesian got a call from a neighbor who reported a moose was in a greenhouse. Moesesian raced to work, fearing the animal was eating a prized fig tree inside his greenhouse. But there was no sign of a moose inside.

"All of a sudden I looked up in the air," Mosesian said. "I thought, My God, there's this moose, 8 feet in the air up on the roof."

The 400-pound cow had walked onto the deck of a house next to the shed. Then the moose stepped over a 3-foot railing and onto the shed's snowy roof.

The animal's front legs punched through the roof almost immediately, but she pulled her legs out and kept walking. Just before she reached the roof's edge, though, both back legs and one front leg punched through - and stayed there.

The moose thrashed around but remained stuck, peering pathetically over the edge of the roof with legs dangling below until help arrived.

Sinnott tranquilized the animal, which by then was exhausted from her struggles. Mosesian called a friend with a backhoe.

The moose rescuers guided the moose's legs through the roof from below and wiggled a net beneath her. Then the backhoe operator lifted her off the roof and gently lowered her to the ground.

After the drugs wore off, the moose walked off "pretty gingerly" and headed up a snowy slope out of sight, Sinnott said. The adventure left the moose with a raw spot on her rear end, but Sinnot said he thinks she will be fine.

Moose regularly prowl city neighborhoods for food in winter and Sinnott said he gets occasional reports of moose trying to reach overhanging trees on roofs, but there wasn't any food near the storage shed.

"I don't know what this moose was thinking," he said.

HENCH adds: Moose was thinking, I wonder if there's any cheese in there?

Jane Austen

I am so excited about this. Masterpiece Theater always does such a good job. You know where I will be come Sunday night. Yup, that is right...glued to my TV. Oh don't you all love Jane Austen. I have never read any of her books. I have only seen the movies. I have been too chicken to take on reading them. I think I will set a goal for myself and I am putting it out there for you all to know and keep me accountable. I want to read at least one of her books in the next year. Probably doesn't sound too bad other than, I am usually reading 2-4 books at a time and I think reading her books might take all my energy. My husband says I need to read harder books because I can burn through a 600 page book in a few days and still get housework done. Does anyone have a suggestion of which I should read first? Happy watching and reading if you haven't read her works.

Driving home a point.

I promise I won't do this everyday, but I just have to share one more devotion out of Streams in the Desert. It just is so appropriate after yesterday's devotion.

"Paul and his companions… (were) kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.” (Acts 16:6). It is interesting to study the way God extended His guidance to these early messengers of the Cross. It consisted mainly in prohibiting their movement when they attempted to take a course other than the right one. When they wanted to turn to the left, toward Asia, He stopped them. When they sought to turn to the right, to Bithynia in Asia Minor, He stopped them again. In his later years, Paul would do some of his greatest work in that very region, yet now the door was closed before him by the Holy Spirit. The time was not yet ripe for the attack on these apparently impregnable bastions of the kingdom of Satan. Apollos needed to go there first to lay the groundwork. Paul and Barnabas were needed more urgently elsewhere and required further training before undertaking this responsible task. Beloved, whenever you are in doubt as to which way to turn, submit your judgment absolutely to the Spirit of God, and ask Him to shut every door but the right one. Say to Him, "Blessed Spirit, I give to You the entire responsibility of closing every road and stopping every step that is not of God. Let me hear Your voice behind me whenever I turn aside to the right or to the left." (Deut. 5:32) In the meantime, continue along the path you have already been traveling. Persist in your calling until you are clearly told to do something else. O traveler, the Spirit of Jesus is waiting to be to you what He was to Paul. Just be careful to obey even His smallest nudging or warning. Then after you have prayed the prayer of faith and there are no apparent hindrances, go forward with a confident heart. Do not be surprised if your answer comes in doors closing before you. But when doors are shut right and left, an open road is sure to lead to Troas. Luke waits for you there, and visions will point the way to where vast opportunities remain open, and faithful friends are waiting. --Paul, by Meyer Is there some problem in your life to solve, Some passage seeming full of mystery? God knows, who brings the hidden things to light. He keeps the key. Is there some door closed by the Father's hand Which widely opened you had hoped to see? Trust God and wait--for when He shuts the door He keeps the key. Is there some earnest prayer unanswered yet, Or answered NOT as you had thought 'twould be? God will make clear His purpose by-and-by. He keeps the key. Have patience with your God, your patient God, All wise, all knowing, no long tarrier He, And of the door of all thy future life He keeps the key.

Unfailing comfort, sweet and blessed rest,
To know of EVERY door He keeps the key.
That He at last when just HE sees 'tis best,
Will give it THEE.
--Anonymous

Suffering and Patience

This morning I woke up and grabbed my little devotion book called "Streams in the Desert" by L.B. Cowman. I have used this little devotional for the last couple of years as a portion of my quiet time. It always seems to hit home. I am behind 8 days this year and thought I will just start with January 9th and this is what I found:

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." Romans 8:18

“I once kept a bottle-shaped cocoon of an emperor moth for nearly one year. The cocoon was very strange in its construction. The neck of the “bottle” had a narrow opening through which the mature insect forces its way. Therefore the abandoned cocoon is as perfect as on still inhabited, with no tearing of the interwoven fibers having taken place. The great disparity between the size of the opening and the size of the imprisoned insect makes a person wonder how the moth ever exits at all. Of course, it is never accomplished without great labor and difficulty. It is believed the pressure to which the moth’s body is subjected when passing through such a narrow opening is nature’s way of forcing fluids into the wings, since they are less developed at the time of emerging from the cocoon than in other insects.

I happened to witness the first efforts of my imprisoned moth to escape from its long confinement. All morning I watched it patiently striving and struggling to be free. It never seemed able to get beyond a certain point, and at last my patience was exhausted. The confining fibers were probably drier and less elastic than if the cocoon had been left all winter in its native habitat, as nature meant it to be. In any case, I thought I was wiser and more compassionate than its Maker, so I resolved to give it a helping hand. With the point of my scissors, I snipped the confining threads to make the exit just a little easier. Immediately and with perfect ease, my moth crawled out, dragging a huge swollen body and little shriveled wings! I watched in vain to see the marvelous process of expansion in which these wings would silently and swiftly develop before my eyes. As I examined the delicately beautiful spots and markings of various colors that were all there in miniature, I longed to see them assume their ultimate size. I looked for my moth, one of the loveliest of its kind, to appear in all its perfect beauty. But I looked in vain. My misplaced tenderness had proved to be its ruin. The moth suffered an aborted life, crawling painfully through its brief existence instead of flying through the air on rainbow wings.

I have thought of my moth often, especially when watching with tearful eyes those who were struggling with sorrow, suffering, and distress. My tendency would be to quickly alleviate the discipline and bring deliverance. O shortsighted person that I am! Hoe do I know that one of these pains or groans should be relieved? The farsighted, perfect love that seeks the perfection of its object does not weakly shrink away from present, momentary suffering. Our Father’s love is too steadfast to be weak. Because He loves His children, He “disciplines us…that we may share in his holiness” (Heb. 12:10). With this glorious purpose in sight, He does not relieve our crying. Made perfect through suffering, as our Elder Brother was, we children of God are disciplined to make us obedient, and brought to glory through much tribulation." (from a tract)

I have been grumbling and sulking for the last several days about having to wait so long for our child. I know we have only been logged in for a little over three months, but it really that doesn't seems to make a difference to me. It has been 10 years 3 months to me. That is how long my heart has been logged in to having a child. As a little girl all I wanted was to get married and have babies. Patience has been one of those things that I have had lots of and then at times none of at all, but most times I fall more to the impatient side of the scale. I love this devotion today because it hit home. I have been trying to find the scissors to make the wait go away and hold my dear child in my arms, but that isn't what the Lord wants at all. I will stay the course and hold tight to my Lord and Saviors who's timing is always perfect. I do think I will have to invest in a tissue company, because the tears will continue to come forth, but I know the Lord will be working.

"being confident of the very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

Paula thank you again for the award. You made my night and have reminded me that people are watching. May the Lord be glorified!

Blogging with a Purpose Award

I have been awarded the "Blogging with a Purpose" award from my friend Paula. I really do not deserve this award, but I am so grateful. It came at such a perfect time and I will explain in a separate post tomorrow. By receiving this award I get to award this honor to five other bloggers. I am so happy to be able to show my gratitude to:

Jewels of My Heart - Daleea has two beautiful children. Her little boy is from Russia and her little girl is from China. Both of her adoption stories are so wonderful and heart warming. Daleea goes out of her way to provide encouragement to those of us who are waiting. She also makes the most gorgeous little girl clothes! I can't wait to buy an outfit.

Oatsvall Team - Watching the Oatsvall Team go through their SN adoption has been such an encouragement. I love seeing how the Lord is working in their lives.

Twin Chatter - I love seeing their twins from China interact with each other and what a special bond they have. I also love the fact that they are in Alaska, where my heart is, and I can catch a glimpse of a moose if I really watch. Thanks.

Lydia's Journey to America - My friend Thomas has made this blog for his first daughter Lydia who is from China. They are adopting another little girl from China and are awaiting their LID. Thomas has such godly advice on lots of topics, but I have learned most about hospitality from him.

Eggrolls and Chopsticks - Dawn puts such humor into everything. They have adopted a little girl, Lily, from China and are on their way back to adopt Rosie.

The guidelines that accompany this award:

1. Awarded parties must nominate five people who have not received the award.

2. The blogs that receive the award must serve some purpose.

3. In their post about the award they need to link back to the original entry.

4. Awarded parties must post the award banner on their site. The banner must remain linked to Eric Novak's site.

The Name Game

We have been struggling with a name for our dear baby girl since April when we started our paper pregnancy. We have nicknamed her SiJi (Mandarin for four seasons and pronounced SeeGee) but we can't come up with a proper name for her. We have so many things we want in a name. I do know I can't have it all but #4 and #2 are the most important with #2 and then #3 coming in next

1. Can't be shortened to a name that could be either girl or boy.
2. Must have a meaningful meaning.
3. Would like it to be feminine and soft.
4. Can't be in the top 50 most popular names.
5. I love unique: eg. Willow, Aspen, MeiLi pronounced MyLee but I can't find a way to spell it that it looks appealing and that people would know to say MyLee and it doesn't mean anything. I love names that have the Lee sound at the end. In the same turn I love simple names such as Sarah and Annie.

So with that said we have really struggled and so we don't have a name. I know we have a while to figure one out, but I would rest better if we had a proper name for our little one. If you have any suggestions please feel free to share.

Evening Sunset

Destination Addiction

Do any of you have a box stash that looks like this somewhere in your house? I have a major problem. We have moved so much in 12 years I have gotten to the point that now I can't seem to part with my boxes. Our garage is so clean and organized until you get to this corner and watch out. One false move and you might have an avalanche of boxes come down. I know I should deal with my destination addiction, but I rather like moving...well not the packing or unpacking. I love the change and adventure of it all. Did you ever watch the TV show Promised Land? Well, it was a family who lived on the road. If only we could make a living and travel all over the place. That would be perfect. At least I would just get rid of most of the stuff and not have to worry about boxes. I'm done with this totally boring post. Sorry.

Thankful Thursday on Tuesday

First, thank you for all your kind words about the blog. I have been having fun creating new templates (which I will reveal in due time) now that I have figured out at least a little computer lingo and have found some awesome digital scrapbooking supplies.

Secondly, I need to thank my husband my HERO! I will try not to get all mushy and over the top, but he is just the BEST! He heard my cry for help or more like a scream of frustration and come in like a prince in shining armor and saved me. I have learned so much from him these last few days and because of him I was able to create what you see. So, thank you so much my wonderful husband...you are my HERO once again.

Thirdly, I have to thank SJH Blog Design for the wonderful instructions that really pulled all the information together for me. I also need to credit Shabby Princess for the free download of the digital scrapbook that gave me all the elements to create it.

Finally but not least, my little dog Sierra. She has been by my side the whole time, being so patient hoping to go for a walk or to go play fetch with something (anything works with her...even the credit card type room keys for a hotel room).

Happy New Year!

I'm too tired and have a scrambled brain from trying to figure out the computer language to say anything more than Happy New Year!