A Month of Birthdays

September is a busy month for us - we have four birthdays to celebrate! Dima's birthday was first ending with Jeremy's on the 21st. We were able to do something special on each person's birthday. Although it may not have been a lot, we had four opportunities to celebrate as a family. These were special times together. With Jeremy turning 18, it made me realize how fast time is passing and how little time we actually have with our children. I truly feel blessed that God has allowed me to be a part of their lives.

Dima was a little overwhelmed by the whole birthday thing. He obviously had never had such a fuss made over his birthday. The grandparents and my sister came by with presents and my brother shipped him some presents. He also had some friends over to help him celebrate.

All the kids are doing great. Once again, I must brag on Dima and the advances he has made since May 20. I will not get into specifics, I'll just say that he is learning how to make friends and does not lash out when things do not go as he would like them to. He is a very brave little boy who has been through more than a six year old should have to endure. For those adopting, anger is something that is present in every child you bring home. Fortunately, the educational classes we went to prepared us for what to expect. Complete trust is not something that comes quick and he is slowly starting to talk to us when he gets angry. I know we still have work to do, but he has just made amazing progress. When I tuck him in at night, I tell him how proud I am of him and what a good boy he is. Unfortunately, these words of encouragement and love are new to him.

For those still waiting to bring your children home, we are praying for you and your children. Take the time to learn as much as you can about adoption. The whole process has taught me more about true love and how thankful I am for God's grace. We regret nothing and although there have been moments of stress and frustration, let me again say how blessed we are that God has allowed us to share our lives with six wonderful children.

God Bless -

In 2008 Is It OK for Baptist to Dance?

Last night at church, the younger children (all but Jeremy and Christina) went to Children's Choir. I thought it would be good for all of them. I accompanied them because I think it is a little early to leave Nastya and Dima since their English is still a little limited. Polina followed along with Sarah and seemed to be trying to learn the songs. I helped Dima by pointing the words out as they sang. Nastya hummed all the songs and on the last couple, decided it was time to dance! She wasn't being disruptive, but she did get the attention of the other children. As far as I am concerned, if the music moves you (or the Spirit) - then dance away!

All the kids are doing great. School started a few weeks back and they are back into a routine of sorts. Polina and Dima are doing great in their school and have learned so much. It has helped a lot with their English in particular. When we got home, Dima couldn't even hold a pencil and would get very frustrated when we would work with him. Now he is writing letters and has learned his ABC's

Jeremy and I have been busy working to get our phone patch working so he can make phone calls from his 2 meter radio. Our club patch was taken out of service recently. As a result, we purchased some used equipment to get our own system up and running. Hopefully next weekend the last $12 component will be installed and the system will be up and running. For those wondering what this is all about, I do not believe kids need their own cell phone. Jeremy and I are amateur radio operators and we have the ability to access the phone lines if necessary (when the eqiupment is installed). So, when he is out and about and needs to call home or 911, he can do so without a cell phone. Now if I can just get his sisters to get their license....

Many people have asked if we have gotten into a routine yet. My answer, is well sort of. We do have a basic routine, but that does not mean it is followed every day. Evening TV is pretty much gone and has been gone for a long time. Not a major loss witht he current programming.

I'll close with adding, once again, that children are a blessing from God. Each passing week I can point to events that made me proud to be the parents to each and every one of them. Our six kids are the second greatest gift God has blessed us with. They are all strong, smart, resilient and loving in their own way.