Hidden Treasures!!

The Hidden Treasures Auction will end tonight!!!  Go check it out before it is all over.  CLICK HERE TO GO VISIT THEM!   Make sure to look for the quilt that I made and the Princess dress that I made that Anita is modelling for the auction!!  My grandmother also made two quilts to help bring home her newest great grandchildren!!  She started making quilts just so she could help bring them home, so go check it out.  There is awesome jewelry, great gift cards, and lots of great items on there!! 

Don't forget to look at the giveaway we have going on right now on here!!  You can click HERE to see that and read about Mulligan Stew!  You should go check out that blog to see pictures of Keith meeting Julia.  We were in town for the girls' cardiologist.  Aleshia and Keith that she has pictures of on there were both from our last adoption.  Julianne was from a different adoption and was adopted from US foster care.  She was our first with Down Syndrome and is the one who made us start looking around and find the 5 Bulgarian Blessings that you all came to love so dearly!  Go look HERE at pictures!  Check out the giveaway while you are at it there too!!!

So here are some treasures for you to see from Easter morning.  These are the youngest 5 girls.  :)

Julianne is 6

and

Aleshia is 6!

Anita is 7!

 

 Ahnja is 11 now and Destiny will be 10 next month!





I recently gave you an update on Nicholas.  Keith will have an update all of his own.  It is impossible to show you how much he has grown with just one picture and he is in motion so much that most of his pictures have at least one part blurry!  lol 



Little Girls Outting

Well yesterday was Monday, which was Brent's day off.  Aleshia had an appointment to follow up with our primary medical provider.  I took Julianne, Anita, Ahnja, and Destiny along and got their flu shots.  I was ready for A LOT of whining, but it just didn't happen.  I had Destiny go first, because I knew she wouldn't whine.  Everyone else just followed her lead I guess.  The girls looked so cute!  I put them all in matching outfits and they were so THRILLED about all having the "same" outfits.  I figure I better enjoy it now, because any day some of them will start to not like it and then it will be over! 

The girls were so funny in the doctor's office.  Ahnja and Destiny are a hoot together always.  Anita and Julianne are like two peas in a pod as well.  Aleshia still isn't to the point that she can interact and join in the same way they can, but I love how they try to include her and show her things.

After the appointment I drove through McDonalds (we hardly ever do that!) and got them pies and ice creams.  We took extra to share with grandparents and headed to their house.  Mommom and Daddy Bill (what we've always called my grandparents since I was little) couldn't believe how neatly the girls ate and how sweet and loving they are.  They were so well behaved that even Daddy Bill was talking about it!  His vision is very bad now, so he thought Ahnja was me at one point.  I told him that I'll take that as a compliment, because she is WAY cuter than I ever was. 

After we left there, we went to Walmart to pick up a few things.  We went to the Christmas aisle first.  I love hearing my little Bulgarian Americans exclaim over the exciting things that we've put up here and they saw there for Christmas.  We picked out some new singing Christmas characters.  Ahnja and Destiny were quietly singing Jingle Bells through the store.  Ahnja's English is coming along so well!  They both got quieter (and Destiny quit on me), when I got out the camera to record it, but at least I got a little.  I heard people talking about the "cute little girls" and "look how well behaved all those kids are".  I love that they saw those things instead of noticing that 4 of the 5 kids with me had Down Syndrome.  No one even mentioned or seemed to notice their "extra".  I love that little extra chromosome, but I want people to see them for all their wonderfulness and then notice that "extra" blessing.  :)  There was an older couple in front of me at checkouts.  They turned and said that they'd never seen such well behaved children.  I wondered later what they would have thought if they'd known that 2 of those girls had spent time in institutions????  I wondered how many of the people smiling at Ahnja and Destiny singing got a blessing from hearing their joy of getting ready for Christmas?  I wonder if any of them ever think about the children still stuck behind the walls of institutions and orphanages and the joy that they and the world are missing out on? 

I know one thing, I AM VERY BLESSED!

 

If you want to visit our current Christmas Sale on Facebook, then go check it out. 

Lots of neat ways to start off your Christmas. 

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/events/187448391380177/

Just click that link and it will take you there!

The money from that will help with the cost of the adoption of the next 3 Unroes!

Some pictures of Nicholas and a small update

Nicholas is doing great.  He is a child that I thought would take quite a while to adjust and be able to go to church and out to eat.  He handles everything very well already though.  He can sit through a preaching service.  He waits patiently when we go out to eat.  He is using the potty when sent.

Most of all, he loves being loved!  He loves hugs, kisses, sitting on your lap, and being picked up.  He is 10 years old, but about the size of Cody who is 5 years old.  He very much understands what we are saying already and smiles when I say 'I love you'.  Such a cutie!

Here are some pictures.

We are so blessed!  I'll try to do better at updating, but things are busy with the new adoption paperwork.  On top of that, I'm trying to find a new pediatric cardiologist that I will like.  Aleshia is fine now, but the one Aleshia went to will be one we never go to again and the one Julianne has seen for quite some time is using the same new medicine for sedation.  That means that none of my children will be seeing him for ECHOs that they want sedations for either.  Julianne was due to have one in December, so I need a new cardiologist quickly.  

I'll give more updates on the kids we are going back for soon.  Our commitment paperwork should arrive my snail mail in their country tomorrow!

Aleshia is sick and we miss her with pictures

Aleshia had an Echo this morning.  She was sedated for it and did not wake up well from the sedation.  The doctor got a good piece of my mind and will again.  We won't be going back to him either, because I think he gave her too much medication.  She is spending a night in the PICU for observation, but is back awake after a very long 8 1/2 hours at least of sleeping.  I was with her during the day and Brent is with her now, so that I could come home with the other kids.

She was doing much better when I left though.  Praise God for this smile!

We all miss her terribly.  Life just isn't the same without her here.  Julianne was asleep when Aleshia left this morning for the Echo and is missing her worst of all I think.  

I had to use the flash on the camera to get this picture of her.  She went in, flipped out her light, and was sitting like this when I went in to check on here. 

 Yes, she was sitting and holding Aleshia's picture from Aleshia's old picture album.  She got it out all on her own.  This is so SWEET and so SAD too.  Julianne has slept in her own bed every since Aleshia came home.  They giggle and laugh after the lights are out and Julianne even turns them back on sometimes.  (wink)

She misses her very much as do we.  I bet I have a little girl back in my bed tonight.  Praying Aleshia continues to do well and is back home tomorrow morning before Julianne even wakes up.  

Aleshia has a family now and WE don't know what to do without her!

One Month Update for Anita and her Pick up Pictures and video

Ok, this is late of course, but you're still getting it.  lol

Anita was the first child that we picked up on July 17th.  As we pulled up to the gate I could see children outside playing.  There was this gorgeous little boy that was showing his strength for getting out and I immediately noticed that he was a little boy that a friend is adopting.  I was not expecting to see Anita right off and I was wanting to be sure I could tell his Mama about him, so my attention was on him.  THEN THERE SHE WAS!!!
Right outside!  She knew she was suppose to be "going" somewhere and she was ready.  She was NOT happy when we had to go back into the building.  Then I got to see her mad side as the caregivers made her go back inside while we all did paperwork.  She screamed the entire time that we did paperwork just about.

The videos are loud, but here is one where she is at her calmest besides when we were finally "out" of that gate that held here inside the orphanage.  Once in the van she calmed down nicely, because she was "going" like she was suppose to.

Here is Anita now!

(If you are wondering, Dayton is telling Julianne that they don't want to see 

whatever is on tv that she keeps turning back on.  lol)

Anita and Julianne are hysterical together!

They have a blast!

She was said to be nonverbal. 

She is already saying words and even a phrase or two.

She only says them when you don't try to get her to.

(Go figure with that "extra" stubbornness)

She's said "I love you" a few times.

Goodnight has happened twice.

Today she said "Go, Go, Go" 

with the hand motion she did in the video above.

She is quite the mimic and that is what I say 

when I shew her out of the kitchen when I'm getting things out of the oven 

or when I need a moment along to actually go pee 

or change clothes.  lol

She is VERY animated.  

She will mimic any motion.

Sometimes you can tell by her movements and the way she holds her mouth

that she is mimicking the way the caretakers in the orphanage

talked and motioned when they taught her to do something

like put on her shirt

or eat her food

or anything.

She keeps us laughing!

We Have a Little Problem

Ok, this post I will probably post to both blogs.  It is hysterical, sweet, and I really don't know what to do.

Julianne has decided she wants to sleep in Aleshia's crib.  The crib had been up for a good while already.  Julianne had been going to sleep in her own bed some nights and then we carry her to our bed.  Other nights she just goes to sleep in our bed to begin with.  We don't leave her in her room at night while we are asleep, because if she wakes up she doesn't cry, but instead climbs out of bed and rocks and hits her head on the floor between her legs.  I can't bear to wake up and know she left a place on her head while I was sleeping so I take her to my bed.  Even at that sometimes she bangs before I get to her when she is sleepy or when she wakes up from having fallen asleep and not yet in my bed.

So, I go in her room the other evening and this is what I see:

Do you love the "Poor me, I don't know how I got here" look above,

or the "You know you can't even think of scolding me when I am this cute" look below?

What about this next look?

This is the "You really did figure it out and explain to Daddy how I got here, 

so you really do know me well, so I'm sure you are aware that I am 

WAAAAAAYY CUTE!"

                                                 
Yes, my sweet and very smart daughter took the small chair over and used it to get onto the arm of the rocking chair, which she then used to climb into the crib!

Then the next night while we were getting the kids ready for bed (and after a very long day playing outside that made her tired before 2am evidently!) I go in and find her to have already put herself into Aleshia's bed and gone to sleep!

So the question is, "WHAT ON EARTH DO I DO?"!  She is nearly 6 years old and doesn't need to be in a crib.  She walks and obviously climbs quite well!  She still has the playpen, because she is unwilling to give it up.  

Do I let her continue this and pray that it gets old before Aleshia gets home?

Do I move the crib elsewhere so that she can't get in it?

Do I buy her a small portable crib like this one that I get for Keith and Aleshia?  (These are on wheels and can wheel into my room for those two at night which is why I bought those specific ones.)

Do I leave the crib there and fight with her to stay out of it?

I really don't know.  She wanted in Keith's highchair when I put it up and I explained it is for her little brother Keith.  She will still ask, but it is to get me to tell her that.  When I say it is for her "little brother Keith" she beams and giggles.  She's been interested in the walker, swing, etc that I've put together.  She tried to get into the walker, but when I told her that it was for "the baby", she didn't try to get in it any more.  

I don't know what to do about the bed.  

Opinions Appreciated Please!

Not Enough Easter Baskets

It is 1 am where I live.  I just finished putting together 13 Easter baskets.  That was not nearly enough.  It hurt not to be able to make Easter baskets for my other 5 babies.  They should be here enjoying their childhood, not where they are right now.  It is Sunday, so poor tiny Keith probably won't get much care today.  No hope of the Baba coming, so all alone in that ridiculous isolation room.  :( 

We had an egg hunt today and two families joined us here.  One of our friends that came had 3 kids and the other had 2 kids.  That meant that there were 18 kids here today!  That is how many should have been here, but that should have been the number once every one left!!  We had so much fun with the two families that joined us.  God has truly blessed us with some awesome friends to enjoy!  They are so supportive and I know that I can count on them to pray.  They come along side and make the hard times more bearable, because you know that they care about the kids coming and are praying and loving them along with us.  I can't wait for them to meet our 5 Bulgarian Blessings! 

                                                 I sure wish they were here to join in the fun!                     

 Julianne was not having any part of that silliness.

"Seriously, Mommy will get my chocolate whenever I want it!"

The other kids thought that hunting was lots more fun.

So many places to look!

Of course since we hid over 600 eggs,

there were a lot just laying around too!

Of course these three boys had to cut the "hunting" short!

There was so much eating to do and that just couldn't wait!

Julianne was right though!

She got some "chocolate" once everyone was gone

and the excitement died down!

Of course, this chocolate was COLD!

Keith, Aleshia, Anita, Nicholas, and Ahnja

WE ARE COMING AS SOON AS WE CAN!!!

There will be many holidays once you get here.

Mommy has been said to "over do" holidays,

but those people aren't thinking about how many holidays

I had to miss with each of my babies

and how many holidays were never celebrated.

Yes, I am going to make sure that you have wonderful memories

of holidays

and every day!

I love you so much!

Soon babies, Soon!

Please everyone, pray that is is very soon!

How the Day Got Better - Praise

UPDATE FROM TUESDAY MORNING!!!  THE CHECK JUST CLEARED!!!!!  PRAISE GOD!!!!

I have to say that I was overwhelmed today with the prayers and kind words of so many.  I asked for prayer and boy could I feel it!  So many people sent messages, gave toward our FSP, and shared our need for prayer.  I truly was left with happy tears before it was all over with.  I could just feel the prayers going up and I have to believe that tiny Keith felt them today too!  

That warms my heart!  The little boy who has been so forgotten for so long is not forgotten.  The devil may have thought he would keep him there hidden, but he won't!  God has a hold on my tiny boy now!  There are lots of Christians praying and the devil doesn't have a fighting chance! 

We saw some movement today.  Our Senator's office has been told that our stuff will reach the next stop on Wednesday.  The letter about Keith's medical situation was forwarded by the wonderful lady who has been helping us to the USCIS officer.  I am trusting God is going to keep this thing moving and praising Him for the help we were able to get from Senator Portman's staff lady who has been so helpful and understanding.  God is on the move and your all's prayers are so appreciated!! 

I was pretty spent there for a while today.  Then I realized that my tiny "Chromosomally Enhanced" Princess was asleep.  Well I knew that was a gift for the perfect nap for me.  I had just had a Facebook conversation with a wonderful praying adoptive mom who encouraged me so much.  My teenage son Denzell and Dayton both said they had it covered here and all the kids were so good, so I laid down with my cuddle bug and took a little nap! 

How could anyone resist that cuddle bug!?!

I woke up feeling refreshed and I'm just sure it was from your prayers and those of so many others.  I awoke to news from a friend in our homeschool group that her mother in law's group of ladies decided to make a whole bunch of homemade pillow cases as their service project this month and give them to us.  What a wonderful thing to be able to tell my kids someone did for them!  They are loved and people care!!  

I felt so energized and like nesting this evening so we accomplished a whole bunch.  You can read more about that HERE on our family blog along with rooming arrangements we are working out.  :) 

Thank you so much for all your prayers and encouragement in so many ways!  The devil lost today, because I am going to bed thankful and bold in God's love and the wonderful Family of God that I am a part of! 

If you have been a part of the giving to our FSP, sharing the waiting children, sharing our story, or donating to the Hidden Treasures Auction that starts Sunday, PLEASE let me know so that I can thank you, add you to our Giveaway, etc.  The details are HERE.

Again, THANK YOU SO MUCH!  Keep praying, because God is going to do big things!

What Down Syndrome Means to Me - BY DAYTON UNROE

Today I asked the kids to write about what Down Syndrome means to them, the kids coming, Julianne, or anything about Down Syndrome in their journals for a homeschool assignment.  I haven't got to read them all yet and I'm sure that some of my kids will make it an issue of some kind or not want to share, but Dayton did a great job and was glad to let me share HIS view. 

(If you'd like to see Julianne and Dayton together in a video then HERE is a post of that.)

"Down Syndrome means alot to me.  When I think about Down Syndrome, I think of a cute little boy or girl laughing.  Alot of people think Down Syndrome is something that makes them stand out in a bad way and they will never be able to "blend in".  But they stand out in a good way, by being special and extremely cute.  They can do everything we can eventually because they are so smart.  They are also the cutest little things in the world.  Down Syndrome is the best syndrome you can have.  Down Syndrome is awesome!"

Dayton Unroe
age 10
brother to one "Chromosomally Enhanced" sister home
and 3 sisters and two brothers on the way who are also
"Chromosomally Enhanced"

World Down Syndrome Day 2012!!!!

Well it is officially World Down Syndrome Day.  This day has been chosen to educate the world about Down Syndrome for a very important reason.  Down Syndrome is usually present because their are 3 copies of the 21st Chromososome instead of just 2 copies.  This is the 3rd month and the 21st day!  :) 

Keith, Julianne, Aleshia, Anita, Nicholas, and Ahnja all have Trisomy 21!  They all have 3 copies of that 21st Chromosome!  :) 

Are they different?  Well, yes, I think we all are.  :)  God just gave them all a little something "EXTRA"!  I'll share some videos with you throughout of Julianne celebrating World Down Syndrome Day, so here's the first one!

At our house the extra chromosome is adored!  All of the kids flock to Julianne and couldn't wait to have more siblings that God chose to give that little something "extra". 

I was asked to share something that I thought was misunderstood or that was different about Julianne than what is expected for Reece's Rainbow's World Down Syndrome post.  I had the hardest time.  Julianne isn't a "stereotype", she's an amazing blessing straight from God that blesses each of us so much each day. 

Here are just a few of the ones that came right to the top of my head:

This has been so hard for me. lol Maybe bc I'm long winded or maybe bc Julianne is just so special.

I was told that Julianne would be cognitively slow, but she is most definitely NOT. She learns everything and is so smart, but her speech is behind so she can't express it where others see it and appreciate it fully.

People with Down Syndrome are thought to be a burden, but Julianne has been the light of our world. God knew WE needed her much more than she needed us and the joy she brings is beyond what words can express.

People with Down Syndrome are thought to be "frail", but Julianne is one tough cookie. She overcame so much before we ever met her at age 2 1/2, yet she takes everything is stride and kicks every obstacle faster than any of us would.

They say people with Down Syndrome are impaired cognitively, yet Julianne shows us each day that she is so bright. She figures out ways to do things that no one else would think of and communicates nonverbally so well that if I could do that I wouldn't talk either.

They make you believe that you won't be able to communicate with a nonverbal child with Down Syndrome, yet Julianne communicates better than anyone I know. Julianne doesn't talk, but she can walk into any situation and make sure to express everything she wants to express while people marvel at her cuteness and jump to do as she pleases.

They say people with Down Syndrome are "different", but Julianne is more like me than anyone I've ever met (even though I didn't give birth to her!). She is stubborn, determined, eats weird things, is opinionated, and gets her way!

Even though Julianne was our 12th child, she made everyone of us less selfish and more determined to be all God desires of us. Her stubborness at being just who she is and her ability to make everyone adore her at first glance has made every member of our family better people who know more about God and His desires for us all. 

Julianne really did change our world for the better in so many ways.  I don't know how I survived the days without her.  She is the most fun and sweet child in the entire world.  I don't love her any more than my other kids, but I'm positive that God gave her to me so that the tough days wouldn't be so tough!  I can't tell you the blessings of being her Mommy, because their just aren't words.  I know for a fact that God made me Julianne's Mommy because I NEEDED HER much more than because she needed me.  She is more like me (stubborn and all) than anyone I've ever met, but much prettier and much sweeter.  She just doesn't give up and she doesn't care what anyone else says is "normal" (normal is another word for BORING!).  She loves a good bowl of banana peppers, ice cream, Reeses cups, and to be loved. 

The fact that people abort 9 out of 10 children like my 6 blessings each day makes me sick.  These children aren't mistakes!  I thank God almost every day that Julianne's birth mother did drugs when she was pregnant and didn't get prenatal care, or else Julianne would have likely been a statistic.  My life wouldn't be what it is now and our entire family would be missing a very important piece.

Spread the word that Down Syndrome isn't a mistake or a flaw!  Down Syndrome is a gift!  It is just one of many ways that God chose to make each of us special!!   Next year we will celebrate with all 6 of our Chromosomally Enhanced Blessings HOME!  If you'd like to be a part of bringing them home, there are lots of opportunities to do so in THIS post.

The Unroe Family thanks God daily for the

21st Chromsosome that makes

Our "Chromosomally Enhanced" Children so

SPECIAL!!

Why the Flu is a Good Thing

Currently, I am just getting over the flu, Julianne is getting over the flu, Dayton is still in the middle of the flu, and Jacob just came down with the flu yesterday evening.  The flu is horrible.  The coughing, sneezing, sick, horrible yuckies, and the fevers that make everyone more miserable.  I hate to see my babies sick.  I'm sure all moms know that feeling well.  None of us can stand to see our little ones sick and miserable!

Yet, I'm pretty sure that this flu is a good thing!  Sound a little weird (even for me lol)?  Keep reading and you just might agree. 

The devil never bothers you unless you are getting somewhere!  Adoptions get him all stirred up.  He hates adoption.  He has those children where he can torture them.  Their lights will never shine while they are locked away.  No one will see their redemption and relate it to the redemption we can all have through Christ.  Convincing the world that children God created are defective and not worthy of life is his game and many believe it.  What could be more his doing than a tiny little boy alone in an isolation room, hungry, miserable, not even knowing what love or family looks like????  See why he hates adoption??? 

But Keith is coming out of there!  Aleshia is coming out!  Anita is coming out! Nicholas is coming out! Ahnja is coming out!!!! 

See why he's so ticked off? 

If we weren't making progress, then he would leave us alone!

We are though.  They are coming out of there soon!!!

I'm pretty sure that everyone here (some are nonverbal which is the only reason I say "pretty sure" instead of "positive") would very gladly have the flu if it means our 5 Bulgarian Blessings are coming home even one day sooner!

Everyone here that has the flu or is will get the flu is HERE.  They are safe and loved.  They can be coddled.  They can get medicine.  They can have popsicles.  They will be taken care of.  (Pictures at the end of the post)

Our kids that aren't home yet don't have that luxury that would seem like a RIGHT to me.  Shouldn't every child have that????  Go look on Reece's Rainbow at all the kids who don't and ask God what He'd have you to do about it.

In the meantime, you can help families who are adopting or children who don't have families yet, but a grant might help a family step out for them.  Don't forget the Mulligan Stew Giveaway!  There is a big button to take you there on the left side of my blog!  Don't forget that by sharing the two sweet girls in yesterday's post, you can be entered into our Bulgarian Giveaway.  Don't forget that I have "Thank You" pictures for those who are donating to the Hidden Treausures Auction that is being done for us or our grant fund.  Don't miss the opportunity to donate to our grant and be entered in the Bulgarian Giveaway and the Mulligan Stew Giveaway.  More details about all of that are in THIS post.


Now for some pictures of Julianne "recovering":

For the record, these were at about 2 or 3am this morning. 

For some reason, that is when she got her ice cream craving!

Of course, we obliged because she has been sick,

or maybe just a little spoiled! 

Gotta love that ice cream face!

I'm Sick and in the Mood To Tell It Like It Is

I have the flu and so does Julianne.  She is puny and doesn't want to eat or drink.  Her stubborness is usually a very wonderful thing and usually I can reason with her about things she needs to take in order to feel better.  Her throat is sore though and it is a fight to get liquids down her to keep her hydrated.  I love that little girl more than anyone could possibly imagine and seeing her sick is so hard.

I also have the constant reminder of my other five Chromosomally Enhanced children who need to come home.  Four of them are fed and some are even in places better than we imagined they would be, but they need to be home with us learning and growing.  Keith on the other hand is not fed like he should be.  He is tiny and in need of medical attention.  He will be 5 years old on April 1st and wears a size 3 to 6 months clothes.  My heart hurts for him all the time.  I worry about him and pray that God holds him in His hands while we can't hold him in ours.  I beg God to make the process go quickly. 

I usually don't say too much about the struggles we go through with "other people".  Our household is wonderful and these people here are all that I need for everything to be ok.  God is in what we are doing and I have no doubt of that.  Besides that - no one else matters. 

That being said, I am so fed up.  When we added Keith to this adoption my sister (I use that word in biology only bc in our family love not biology forms families) made some horrible comments.  She made comments about adoptive kids not being the same.  How they shouldn't be able to get social security if a parent dies, because it wasn't their real parents anyway.  She then went into how she isn't for abortion, but we don't need more people here "taxing the system" speaking of Down Syndrome.  She made comments about how the kids shouldn't be allowed to come here because they will never "contribute".  My sister had made comments in the past when her kids were acting horrid about how my kids were the issue bc it made things crowded (even though my kids were sitting quietly around a table eating).  I forgave that and some other words that were very hurtful so that my grandparents could have holidays where everyone was cordial.  I told her then that another hateful word about my kids would mean I was done with her for good.  I told her that I understood her embarassment about her kids' behavior, but my kids had better not be the ones to have it blamed on them bc of her embarassment that my kids with "special needs" can handle get togethers better. 

When the comments about Down Syndrome and adopted kids not being really the same came out, I WAS DONE!  I let the rest of the family know that I was done.  My mother said that it was a difference in "Political beliefs".  I told her that was only accurate if my sister was a "Nazi".  Since then the rest of my family (with the exception of my brother and sister in law - much more my real sister- who purely tolerate her when necessary) have continued to say she is wrong, but I don't feel they've taken a "stand".  They will say that she is very wrong, but "her kids" can't help it.  I do understand that, because I wouldn't wish anything bad of her kids, because it isn't their fault that she is a  . . . . . .

It has made a huge impact though.  I know that if she had made a racial comment about Denzell, Precious, or Unique being African American and somehow "unworthy" then our family would have had a fit.  Why then is it ok for comments about Down Syndrome???  I guess it is because our entire world seems to devalue people with an extra chromosome.  It makes me furious though.  (Did you read the story about the parents who were awarded nearly $3 million because they weren't told their child had Down Syndrome in utero and they would have aborted her!!!!  GRRRRR!!!!!)  What my sister and our world don't seem to understand is that people with Down Syndrome contribute way more than my sister.  My sister has mooched in any way that she can and gotten any help that she can.  She leaves her kids with whoever she can.  People with Down Syndrome are so stubborn that they can accomplish much more than they are given credit for.  They make everyone around them better.  They can have careers when they become adults.  They make the world smile (well except those with a scowl that they were born to begin with).  They were PUT HERE BY GOD!!  Our world employs "teachers", but people with Down Syndrome are the "teachers" that God put here. 

All I know is that I would hate to stand before God some day and give account for in anyway harboring those thoughts, feelings, or condoning in any way those who have those thoughts or feelings.  Those (like my biological sister) who have the nerve to actually say such things to a parent who ADORES their children's extra chromosome, should beware.  She was very blessed that she had that audacity over the phone.  In person, I would have knocked her down!  For my family members who have the audacity to let her name slip out of their mouths in conversation with me, I pray that I can contain my thoughts, but I make no guarantees.  God even said that you can't serve two masters and you must choose a side.  Neutral sometimes just isn't really neutral.  I only need God to approve of me, so if people wonder why I don't have more to do with family, there is the reason.  Yes, many of them love my children.  Sometimes love with no action just isn't enough though. 

I hate to end a post on such a negative note.  I realize that many of you are going "what the heck", but it is something that I've needed to get off my chest.  I just got off the phone with a family member who was giving her "prolife speech" that she had given to someone at work.  All the while, I know that she still won't take a stand as far as my sister.  That conversation added to the story about the family suing because their daughter was born just sent me into rant mode and I had to let it out.  This is the result of all those things in combination with seeing my little girl the world thinks isn't worthy bc God made her special sick, while my little boy made in God's image but considered unworthy by so much of the world lays alone and hungry.  Sorry if it isn't "nice" or "politically correct" or "encouraging", but its truthful.

On a positive note, please go read THIS post for all the wonderful opportunities available right now to those who support us.  :)  For those in our church and those others who truly support us, we are truly thankful and thank God for you each day. 

A few quotes from Abraham Lincoln:
“Stand with anyone that is right; stand with him while he is right and part with him when he goes wrong.”    Wow, how this applies to so many situations where those with an extra chromosome are being aborted, orphaned, and thought unworthy!

"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."  Does this not apply to those with an extra chromosome world??

“My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.” I guess the question is WWJD???  If He were walking this earth now, would those who call themselves Christians dare to do and say the things they do about children that He created???

“Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.”  So very true?  If we deny the freedom to live and be valued to children and adults because of God giving them a little something "extra", then should we have it??? 

Then even more important, what does the Bible say:

Never take advantage of any widow or orphan. If you do and they cry out to me, you can be sure that I will hear their cry.

Exodus 22:22-23   

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

James 1:27

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

Isaiah 1:17

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

Matthew 18:5
 

SO I THINK THAT MAKES IT PRETTY CLEAR WHERE GOD STANDS!
 Joshua 24:15 - "But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”

More Pictures of How We Waited for Skype Calls

I thought I'd show you more pictures of what we did at 2 am while waiting for Skype calls, but first a prayer request.  Please pray for our tiny Keith.  He is so tiny, needs medical attention for his kidneys, and isn't in a place where he is taken care of well.  Please pray and join me in begging God to help the process be expedited so that he can be home and safe.

Now, for pictures of us waiting for those Skype calls. 

Julianne is a night owl, so for her that was a GREAT month.  lol

I think the pictures tell the story on this one. 

Movies, chocolate, and good company while waiting to see our little ones.  :)

Don't forget about our Bulgarian Giveaway going on and that you can get entries into the Mulligan Stew Giveaway when you donate as well.  Also don't forget that we'd love to send you a "Thank You" picture.  I've had two people email me and say that they'd love to have one. 

 All the info for all of the above is in THIS post.

Mulligan Stew????

A wonderful lady is doing a HUGE fundraiser that she is calling Mulligan Stew.  There are over $4,500 worth of prizes available.  There is an Ipad and a couple Kindles along with lots of other prizes.  We are one of the families that can benefit from this fundraiser and we are very thankful for all the effort that she has put into it.  We'd be thrilled it you could hop over to her blog and be a part of it. 

Here is the link!

I also thought I'd give you a special treat in this post.  :)

Julianne has always been interested in the treadmill that we have.  Yet, she has always been afraid to get on it with it moving.  Last night she decided she wanted on it.  It was on a 10 incline when she got on.  She went as fast as 3MPH at times on it!  She was very proud and would lift her tiny feet up to show off.  :) 

Waiting Children Post #6

I've decided to list waiting kids today that are Julianne's age.  Julianne was 4 when we started this adoption journey and is now 5 years old.  She was 2 1/2 when she came home and immediately wrapped us around her tiny crooked pinky finger.  We've been doing whatever she says ever since!  haha  When I looked at Reece's Rainbow and looked through the faces, I realized that if she were born there then that would be HER.  She would have likely been transferred to a mental institution at age 4.  She would have been locked away somewhere from birth on, so that she wouldn't "inconvenience" anyone.  She would have been all alone.  To think that children just like my sweet girl are locked away, when they should be treasured kills me!  Now there are more faces in my heart that go along with that.  There are 5 very special blessings waiting for us to come back for them, that we already adore!

Here is what a child with Down Syndrome should be like at age 5 (there are always differences of course, but orphans don't have the opportunities that Julianne does and the DESERVE it!):

Isn't my girly adorable??? 

The children I am about to post would bring you the same joy!

Stacy should be being spoiled somewhere like Julianne is!

She is 5 years old and has Down Syndrome just like Julianne!

She lives in an institution though.  :(

She would be so beautiful with her hair grown out and pretty clothes.

I bet she could really learn to enjoy a good bubble bath!

She has a grant of over $3,700!

Please will you be her family??????

Mark is 5 years old and has Down Syndrome. 

He loves to play with toys and other children.

He has a grant of over $4,000 available to help with his adoption.

He needs a family!

Jason has just turned 5 years old and has Down Syndrome.

He has been waiting WAY too long!

He is developing VERY well.

He is in an easy country.

His grant is over $3,700!

Could you please be his family??????

Denny is also a 5 year old little boy with Down Syndrome.

He is a healthy little boy.

There are lots of photos and a video available of him!

His grant is over $1,100 and he is in an easy country!

Could you be his family?

Cora Lynn is a beautiful 5 year old girl with Down Syndrome.

She is active and would look even more beautiful with her hair all grown out!

Her grant is over $4,200!

She needs a family!

Arina is a beautiful 5 year old little girl with Down Syndrome.

Her grant is over $7,000 and she needs to come home!

She needs a family to put a smile on her face. 

Wouldn't you love the blessing of watching her bloom????

Please remember that you can be entered to win a gift for sharing this post.  You have to let me know though and to tell me what you want entered to win from our GIVEAWAY.

Also go VOTE for our blog to spread the word.

Ok, It is Finally Monday

Monday is finally here!  Weekends are always the worst when you are waiting for a government official to do paperwork.  (Dallas, TX nearly drove me insane on many occassions when weekends or holidays nearly finished me off!)

It is 8:04 AM in Bulgaria.  I am praying hard that today is the day!  Written Referral . . . PLEASE! 

Please send up lots of prayers and I'll let you know as soon as I hear the good news!

Right now, I'm going to try to get this ornery little angel to go to sleep with me.

I can't wait until my other "Chromosomally Enhanced" children are home and I can discover their personalities!

Julianne Trying Out the High Chair

I bought three of the high chairs, because I knew Julianne's wasn't going to make it much longer.  I have had her new one set up now for several days and I LOVE IT!  I can't wait to set the other two up, but I need my other two little ones here to use them first. 

As you can see she really likes it too.  She wasn't really sure what it was or why it was until we put some chocolate chips onto the tray.  :)  Then she KNEW!  lol 

It took less than 5 minutes to put it together.  It easily converts from a high chair into a table and chair.  The harness that is with it is great, but Julianne really doesn't need one.  She loved to stand up in the other one, but in this one she hasn't been able to because the tray sits down lower to her lap.  I LOVE that too!  The harness would be good if she was using it as a table and chairs though because it would keep her in her seat for an activity, so I can see it being very useful for training the little ones to stay in their seats when doing an activity as well as for eating. 

There are several other things that I love about it.  It takes up LESS SPACE!  This is huge when you are going to have 3 of them!  It also is very easy to wipe off.  It has simple lines, less grooves, and even the seat cover is easy to wipe off.  Julianne also has a habit of "rocking" back and forth when she sits.  This one doesn't have a reclining seat, so I'm hopeful that it won't gradually tip backward like the other one that we had. 

I had to show you another.  She really is so adorable and leaned forward for this picture with that little smirk of hers.  :)

For their First Sunday at Church

Ok, so I have to "prepare".  I've been "nesting" for waaaayyyy too long.  I keep expecting things to start to move at lightning speed and I want to be ready.  :) 

I was at Sam's Club and they have started putting out their Spring/Summer clothing.  I have always loved to buy the cute clothes there.  Destiny has outgrown them, since they only go to a size 7, but thankfully Julianne arrived in time to be able to keep me buying all those cute things. 

I looked at those beautiful dresses and wanted so badly to buy them, but I wanted to buy them for all 4 of my beautiful "Chromosomally Enhanced" girls.  I mean, anyone who knows me knows, I will have to have them matching as much as possible.  Ahnja may or may not be able to wear smaller sizes than Destiny, but likely will.  One way or the other, the younger three at the very least MUST have some matching outfits.  :)

I looked at those beautiful dresses and decided that I would buy them for all 4 girls!  I then thought "But what sizes do they wear?".  So I thought and then I felt a frivolous smile creek onto my face.  Yes, I decided to buy a 3T (in case Paula is smaller than Julianne), two size 4's (in case someone is Julianne's own size), a size 5, a size 6, and a size 7!  Surely that will cover all the bases!  They can wear them on their first Sunday at church.  I needed 4, but bought 6.  I figured that the dresses were less than $20 a piece at Sam's and if I bought them else where they would be twice that.  With that mindset, I still got a good deal!

I have to admit that I keep pulling the dressing out and looking at them.  I sit and imagine how pretty each one will look in those pink dresses.  I think of how blessed I will feel to have them all together.  Four chromosomally enhanced sisters all stubborn and BEAUTIFUL!  I can just see each of their little faces above those dresses. 

I haven't picked out clothes for the 2 boys yet.  I have no idea what sizes to buy for Nicholas and Keith.  I am maybe going to wait until Brent actually meets them.  With the girls all so close in age, surely I hit their sizes!  Also whatever they don't wear now they can probably grow into (unless of course the size 3T is too small lol).  Nicholas's info is YEARS old, so we have no idea what to expect.  Keith is so very tiny that I am hoping he has grown some since our last report. 

So here is what the girls will be wearing!

Of course you will need to multiply that times 4!

The question is "Which 4 dresses will fit them?" 

What is not in question is that they will ALL be beautiful!