My little girls.....

always ready to smile

We've had a busy week but luckily this weekend was rather quiet.  We are finally getting some Fall-ish weather around here so I was busy going through the little girls' clothes.  The Princess LOVES to match the Dumpling!  

The Three Deadliest Words in the World: It’s a Girl

The Three Deadliest Words in the World: It’s a Girl
click on link....

Cross country with the Vol..............

what a face......

this is fun Mommy......

go Vol go.......

the JV crew.......

prayer........

starting line...

recovery......

What Every Adoptive Parent Should Know « Empowered To Connect

swinging.......

What Every Adoptive Parent Should Know « Empowered To Connect

Should I Parent My Adopted Child Differently Than Birth Children? « Empowered To Connect

Should I Parent My Adopted Child Differently Than Birth Children? « Empowered To Connect

Quick Post Op report....

my girl playing at home 5 hours after surgery

Dumpling did well with surgery.  The dental work took more time than anticipated.  She will be facing some major work in the future. She slept for a good bit when we got home. We can all breath a sigh of relief.  God is good. 

http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/13341272/adoption-conversation


http://wp.me/pikKM-11Z


two very good links:  one with some humor and one with stark reality...... something to ponder....

Reflections.......

I've written this blog post over and over in my head, but I just can't seem to articulate my thoughts to my liking.
As I spend a few minutes glancing at Dumpling's referral photo, I see a scared and almost emotionless little girl.  But, alas, I look again and see a slight glimmer in her eyes.  It must be God winking at me because it is that same glimmer that made me fall in love with her after looking at her picture.
It is that same love for her that pulls me through the endless medical testing necessary to obtain a grasp at what is going on in her little body.  After spending many hours at medical appointments over the last few weeks, I see that we have a long road ahead of us.  We will be visiting with the Adoption Clinic, Ophthalmology,
 Audiology, Cardiology, Cleft Clinic, ENT docs, her pediatrician, local early intervention folks, and a pediatric dentist, as well as getting some diagnostic scans.  The mystery of Dumpling will slowly unfold.
With every giggle, hug, unsolicited kiss, smile, and show of affection, this little girl reminds us that her future is in God's hands and we love her more with each passing day.  One of my dear friends called Dumpling 'jolly'.  That is quite an appropriate word for our little girl.  She exudes joy!
Please pray for her on Thursday as she heads to surgery in the morning.  Thank you!

A little Oktoberfest Fun.....

enjoying the music.....

dancing with Popi

Dumpling loves the Frogs hair.....

Well said.......

Love without Boundaries ...........


and another one......
Jen Hatmaker - "My Heart is Hot..."

Pumpkin Patch Fun

Sisters...........

Loving each other!

The making of an orphan.........

                           The Making of an Orphan There were six babies in the small room.  I noticed her right a way, laying still on the only bed in the room.  Why isn't she in a crib? Why is she so still...and why is she alone? The Dire...


click on link to read.............                                              

Special Weekend..........

first family picture - 6!

Dumpling's Godparents

this looks like fun

finally able to enjoy ride-on toys

We were blessed to celebrate Dumpling's Baptism this weekend.  It was a special time to have family and friends together for her special day.  Dumpling is a special little girl.   My only regret is not taking more pictures of all of the family together.




We are still dealing with change and adjustments as well as sleep disturbances, doctors' appointments, and  coping with a new sibling.  Over the past month home,  we've had good times.... we've had bad times  .... we've functioned on very little sleep....  we've been frustrated in our communication skills  BUT when all is said and done, life is good.  We thank God for all of our blessings.
Each day brings new hope and new challenges.  Thanks to all prayer warriors who have supported us on this journey.

our homecoming airport picture

the Vol's birthday.... receiving  lots of help from the Princess

A good read and people making a difference......

Help One Now page