I have decided to only use our secret page on Facebook for the rest of our adoption updates. Much easier and safer.
If you would like to follow us and have not been added, you must first become my friend on FB and then ask me to add you. I would be happy to do that.
Thanks for all the support!
-contessa
Monday, April 1, 2013
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Documents are DONE
That's what our coordinator said!!!
The documents are being translated right now and we will start working on more paperwork...yay. Really though, it's much more exciting this time because we have faces waiting on us!
Once translations are finished, we will be notified of when our 30 days started. As far as I understand, this is the day the judge have us written approval. They allow 30 days for anyone to step up for the boys in country. We are already past this point we just don't know how far yet! Such a roller coaster!
So next is waiting for everything to be translated and for us to fill out the I-600. I am unsure if the new 3-6 months investigation time starts once we file or after it is approved.
I am hoping to file the I-600 by the end of March!
Avlynne and Cooper today waiting on the boys.
-contessa
The documents are being translated right now and we will start working on more paperwork...yay. Really though, it's much more exciting this time because we have faces waiting on us!
Once translations are finished, we will be notified of when our 30 days started. As far as I understand, this is the day the judge have us written approval. They allow 30 days for anyone to step up for the boys in country. We are already past this point we just don't know how far yet! Such a roller coaster!
So next is waiting for everything to be translated and for us to fill out the I-600. I am unsure if the new 3-6 months investigation time starts once we file or after it is approved.
I am hoping to file the I-600 by the end of March!
Avlynne and Cooper today waiting on the boys.
-contessa
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Succesful Silent Auction!
For those of you who were unaware or were not able to make it to the Silent Auction last night, it was a huge success! Here are some pictures to prove it.
Did anyone get any other pictures? I would love to have more if you have some.
The total from last night was just over $9,200!! Can you believe it? I can! Somewhere in my head I came up with the idea that we might make $3,000-5,000. But my God always blesses above and beyond our wildest imagination! His plans and His ways are always best. Through a few other donations in the last week or so the total I put in our adoption account today was...$10,904.00
THANK YOU, without all the wonderful donations, sponsors, and bidders it would not have been possible.
I have to give a big shout out to a couple of William's old buddies from school. I hadn't even thought of the idea to hold a silent auction until Brandi Clark and Nita Dreyer so kindly offered a donation from their businesses a few months back if we wanted to raise some money . I let the thought roll around for awhile. So Thanks ladies!
As much as the donations bless our hearts, so many of you have shown a genuine interest in this story. That means so much to us! The inquires, sincere hugs, and love surrounding us is just what we need to carry us the rest of the way to our boys. I think the ache for them is officially setting in.
We truly hope you enjoyed your night with us if you were able to attend.
Next up is waiting for our official Act Of Adoption paperwork to arrive at our agency in the U.S. We would covet your prayers that this would happen very soon, and as always for the safety, and health of the boys.
-contessa
p.s. If you are new to the blog, I suggest you look back into the posts from the last year or so and follow our journey. It's been such a wonderful ride full of curvy, twisty roads!
The total from last night was just over $9,200!! Can you believe it? I can! Somewhere in my head I came up with the idea that we might make $3,000-5,000. But my God always blesses above and beyond our wildest imagination! His plans and His ways are always best. Through a few other donations in the last week or so the total I put in our adoption account today was...$10,904.00
THANK YOU, without all the wonderful donations, sponsors, and bidders it would not have been possible.
I have to give a big shout out to a couple of William's old buddies from school. I hadn't even thought of the idea to hold a silent auction until Brandi Clark and Nita Dreyer so kindly offered a donation from their businesses a few months back if we wanted to raise some money . I let the thought roll around for awhile. So Thanks ladies!
As much as the donations bless our hearts, so many of you have shown a genuine interest in this story. That means so much to us! The inquires, sincere hugs, and love surrounding us is just what we need to carry us the rest of the way to our boys. I think the ache for them is officially setting in.
We truly hope you enjoyed your night with us if you were able to attend.
Next up is waiting for our official Act Of Adoption paperwork to arrive at our agency in the U.S. We would covet your prayers that this would happen very soon, and as always for the safety, and health of the boys.
-contessa
p.s. If you are new to the blog, I suggest you look back into the posts from the last year or so and follow our journey. It's been such a wonderful ride full of curvy, twisty roads!
Friday, January 25, 2013
Wolverton's, They're Really Wolverton's!
COURT DATE
WAS TODAY!!!!!!!!!
I really am having a hard time breathing people!
Today marked 6 weeks since sending our dossier to the DR Congo. I was told to wait 4-6 weeks before checking in on the status. I didn't even think about emailing at 4 weeks because who wants to be disappointed? I marked it on the calendar to write an email early next week. I figured why not give it a couple more days. Well, I went ahead and shot the email out this morning. ;)
MUCH to my surprise, my coordinator emailed back this afternoon say that she emailed awhile ago but never heard back about a court date. But...she called again today and we PASSED COURT TODAY!
Now, there is a 30 day wait I think that will start today. I'm a little confused, because it's just plain confusing stuff! So not exactly sure where we are in the process. She says it will take about 3 weeks for everything to be typed up and then it gets reviewed, after that we will get documents translated and file the I-600. Once we file that it has been taking somewhere around 8-10 weeks until travel.
God is Good! Hang on Boys we're comin' to get ya'!
-contessa
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
In the waiting
Tick...Tock...Tick...Tock
Counting the days going by, waiting for our the boys...
I think we are doing a pretty good job so far. With things slowing down and coming to this time of year where there seems to be a lull, I think it's going to get harder though!
We are soon to be starting on our required training, and I am learning quite a bit about our time we will experience there and things to pack when we travel!
While there is no other news to share, I thought I would post this wonderful article about adoptive families. I have read other articles that have said the same things in not such a pleasant tone. This one I believe hits all the perfect topics while staying polite.
Lords knows, if you know me well, you know I have a big mouth. If I'm curious, I will probably ask. Hopefully I have been tactful about it, though I imagine I haven't always...
So if I have ever offended, I am sorry!
Like she points out at the end, if you have already said these things or asked any of these questions don't feel bad!
This is all new to many of us. Sometimes we really mean well, and given awkward circumstances sometimes things just come out wrong. Other times we haven't thought it through, or have never heard the opposing side to understand.
I think it is a beautiful thing when we take the time to understand where others are coming from and expand our understanding of different realities in life. I don't know a lot about autism, or dealing with the loss of a child, or living anywhere but Alaska! Lol, but I am willing to try and listen and learn.
It is lengthy, but WELL worth the time. Thanks!
_______________________________________________________________________________
P
arenting
an adopted child is hard work and we struggle. We
may tell you that were okay when we're really falling apart. We're worried that
if we are honest about how difficult it is that you won't understand and that
you'll think we're nuts. Adding a child who may or may not have anything in
common with us socially, culturally, biologically or even personality-wise is
challenging. Though undoubtedly beautiful and worth all of the struggles,
adoption certainly isn't always easy or
pretty.
It is greatly appreciated if you choose your wording carefully, especially around our children.
Yes, these are all our "real" kids (though sometimes it would be nice if all of my kids, adopted and biological, had "off" switches) and, in most situations, you probably do not need to specify whether you are talking about my "adopted kids" or my "biological kids". They are all my kids even if they joined us through different paths.
If you'd like to offer support (meal, help with house cleaning, etc) when an adopted child joins the family, please do even if we don't reach out and ask.
Many of us won't specifically ask for help or tell you what we need. However, I don't know a single adoptive mom who would turn down an offer to have a group of friends tidy/clean her house during those first few weeks at home with a new child. Likewise, coffee and chocolate are most always welcome and might be exactly what a new adoptive mom needs to get through those challenging times of adjustment!
Please don't try to get our child to like you the most.
Attachment and bonding are challenging enough without having friends and family slip our children candy, shower them with gifts, offer seconds at meals or encouraging bending and stretching of family rules. We're already working our tails off to get them to like us. With consistency and time they will learn to like you too, I promise.
Our adopted children had lives before they joined our family.
They had/have birth families and other relatives who are important to them and who deserve recognition and credit too. They have had life experiences that, while sometimes different than ours, are still special and valuable.
Be considerate of the types of questions that you ask about our child's background and personal history, especially in their presence and especially if they are old enough to understand.
Would it offend you if someone asked if you have AIDS, if you were abandoned, if your parents were drug users or how your parents died? If so, best not to ask these questions to someone else. We understand that it is normal to be curious and to wonder about the circumstances that led to a child's adoption. However, these are things that we discuss openly in our immediate family but not elsewhere. Our children may or may not choose to divulge more of their personal stories someday when they are older but they are THEIR stories and details to share, not mine.
Sometimes adopted children need to be parented differently than biological children.
We are not spoiling them. We aren't making excuses for poor behavior. Rather, we are parenting a child whose background may be very dissimilar to anything we've experienced. A child who has been abandoned and who has a fear of abandonment shouldn't be sent to time out alone in another room. A child who is still attaching to their adoptive family may need to be firmly held while having loving, affirming words whispered into their ear during a full-blown tantrum. The types of consequences that work for other children might not work for a child who doesn't have the same sense of value of their possessions and who doesn't understand what it means to have privileges. As parents, we must be flexible to help meet the individual needs of our child even if it means that we do things a little differently sometimes.
If you would like to give a gift to our new child, please consider something small that the whole family can enjoy together.
A few ideas are a frozen meal, a gift card to the movies, a small ornament commemorating the adoption or art supplies for all of the kids to share. We know that you want to welcome our new additions but gifts can be overwhelming for children who have had few material possessions. Also, we want our children to learn to love you for who you are, not for the fact that they hope they'll get another gift the next time they see you again. Other siblings may also experience jealousy and resentment if the new addition suddenly receives an armory of gifts and they are excluded.
Attachment takes time and work.
It doesn't happen overnight. Even if it appears that our child is securely attached to us it may take many months or years and every child and every family bonds differently. Many times we're faking it until we make it but one day we will wake up and realize that we're not faking it anymore and that our love is deep and real.
Parents who have recently added a child through adoption need support, friendship, love and encouragement.
Even if we're somewhat withdrawn and spending a lot of time at home cocooning with our new addition we value our friendships. Please continue to check up on us and to email, text, call or stop by. If you were in our life before we still want you in our life and in the lives of our children!
Please refrain from commenting on our child's appearance (specifically relating to ethnicity/race) in front of him or her.
All children want to feel included and to fit in. Pointing out how dark they are, how differently they look from the rest of us or how unique their hair feels only makes them feel like they stand out more.
Please do not ask adopted children if they like their new parents/family.
Adopted children do not usually get to hand pick their family. Adoption is similar to an arranged marriage and unique, sometimes very different people are brought together. With hard work and patience true love may grow. However, ask ANY child, biological or adopted (especially any older child!) if they like their parents and be prepared for some interesting answers!
It takes time to help children start to heal from a difficult past.
Just because they have been with us for a certain amount of time does not mean that the are "fixed". On the other hand, just because children are adopted does not necessarily mean that they will be any more difficult, defiant, less successful or anything else as teenagers or adults.
Educating your children about adoption and diversity helps my children.
Talking openly about adoption, children who look different than one or both parents and other "nontraditional" family structures helps our children feel accepted and secure at extracurricular activities, church, school and elsewhere in our community.
Our new additions are not celebrities.
We appreciate all of the love and support that we were shown during our adoption process and we know that everyone is excited to meet them. However, taking photos of just our adopted child or pouring attention on them while ignoring our other children is not healthy for anyone. The child who is receiving all of the attention often feels singled out and siblings quickly become resentful.
Our children may be "delayed" when they join our family but often they just need time.
Adopted children are placed into environments that may be very different than anything they've ever experienced. They may be overstimulated, confused and sometimes there are language barriers. With time and patience most emotional, intellectual and physical delays will be overcome.
Please do not tell us how amazing we (parents) are because we have chosen to adopt.
We know that this comment is usually intended as a compliment but our adopted kids are not burdens, charity cases or a community service project to be completed. As parents we gladly invest the time and energy needed to ensure the happiness and well-being of any of our children.
We may discourage physical contact with our child for the first several months that they are home or until we feel like they are securely attached to us.
Please do not insist on holding them, hugging them or having them sit on your lap. Many children who have lived in orphanages and institutions learn to fight for adult attention. Often they can put on quite the show and act like the most friendly, charming child to draw attention to themselves. While it may be cute and though it gives the false impression that they are well-adjusted and confident, it is very important that initially the parents are the only adults who help fulfill these children's need for physical affection. This also teaches healthy boundaries and is a safety consideration since no child, adopted or biological, should feel obligated to have close physical contact with someone that they do not know well.
We do not advertise our child's "cost".
If you would like to know how expensive our adoption process was, please ask when our children are not present, call after our kids are in bed or send us an email. Most adoptive families are happy to share our experiences and to provide helpful information but we do not ever want our children to feel like they were bought or that they are commodities.
When the going gets tough please do not ask if we regret our decision to adopt or imply that "we asked for it".
Few people would tell a sleep-deprived mother of a colicky newborn "well, you asked for this" and it would be considered rude to ask a new mother if she regretted her decision to have a baby. Just because something is difficult does not mean that we regret it. There are bumps in the road of every journey.
Even the happiest of adoptions are a result of challenging or difficult circumstances.
Though we like to think of adoption as a "happy ending", birth parents may have made difficult decisions, children may have faced losses and many lives were forever changed. Though most adopted children grow to be happy, well-adjusted adults and though most adoptive families are beautiful and full of love, it is important not to romanticize adoption.
And, most importantly:
No one is perfect.
If you slip and call our biological kids our "real" kids or if you've already asked "What happened to his mother?" we won't hold a grudge. We know that our family is different. We understand that it is impossible to be sensitive and politically correct in every situation all the time. These are ideas and suggestions, not commandments.
We appreciate that you care about our family. We cannot thank you enough for wanting to learn more about supporting and understanding the adoptive family and for helping make this transition as smooth as possible for all of us!
Contributed by Ashlee, author of the very popular blog: The Kitchen is Not My Office
_______________________________________________________________________________
Would you be so kind so drop a word about the article? Did you learn anything, something you never thought about?
-contessa
Counting the days going by, waiting for our the boys...
I think we are doing a pretty good job so far. With things slowing down and coming to this time of year where there seems to be a lull, I think it's going to get harder though!
We are soon to be starting on our required training, and I am learning quite a bit about our time we will experience there and things to pack when we travel!
While there is no other news to share, I thought I would post this wonderful article about adoptive families. I have read other articles that have said the same things in not such a pleasant tone. This one I believe hits all the perfect topics while staying polite.
Lords knows, if you know me well, you know I have a big mouth. If I'm curious, I will probably ask. Hopefully I have been tactful about it, though I imagine I haven't always...
So if I have ever offended, I am sorry!
Like she points out at the end, if you have already said these things or asked any of these questions don't feel bad!
This is all new to many of us. Sometimes we really mean well, and given awkward circumstances sometimes things just come out wrong. Other times we haven't thought it through, or have never heard the opposing side to understand.
I think it is a beautiful thing when we take the time to understand where others are coming from and expand our understanding of different realities in life. I don't know a lot about autism, or dealing with the loss of a child, or living anywhere but Alaska! Lol, but I am willing to try and listen and learn.
It is lengthy, but WELL worth the time. Thanks!
_______________________________________________________________________________
|
||||
|
Our children are not necessarily grateful to have been adopted.
And we don't expect them to be. It is not that our kids don't notice the stability of a family. It's not that they don't cherish the love that they are receiving or that they don't like their new life. It is because children are programmed to need, want and expect love. When we provide it we are not heroes, we are simply meeting one of their very basic needs. Expecting adopted children to be grateful for being adopted is like expecting our biological children to be grateful for being conceived. It was a choice that we, their parents, made and that they were brought into. Please don't feed my kids. For children who have known hunger, food means love. We want them to learn to love us, their parents and siblings, before they bond with extended family, neighbors and friends. I know that they stare longingly at anything edible. I know that our two year old puts his head on the table and looks at you with puppy dog eyes. But since we were not there to meet their early needs (breast or bottle feeding, comforting them when they were sick, changing diapers, kissing boo boos) we need to make up for it by meeting as many of their physical and emotional needs as possible now. Many adopted children also have food insecurities. Some eat until they vomit and then start eating again. Others hoard food, needing the comfort of knowing that there is some saved for later. It is best to leave all feeding to the parents unless specifically directed otherwise. |
arenting
an adopted child is hard work and we struggle. We
may tell you that were okay when we're really falling apart. We're worried that
if we are honest about how difficult it is that you won't understand and that
you'll think we're nuts. Adding a child who may or may not have anything in
common with us socially, culturally, biologically or even personality-wise is
challenging. Though undoubtedly beautiful and worth all of the struggles,
adoption certainly isn't always easy or
pretty.It is greatly appreciated if you choose your wording carefully, especially around our children.
Yes, these are all our "real" kids (though sometimes it would be nice if all of my kids, adopted and biological, had "off" switches) and, in most situations, you probably do not need to specify whether you are talking about my "adopted kids" or my "biological kids". They are all my kids even if they joined us through different paths.
If you'd like to offer support (meal, help with house cleaning, etc) when an adopted child joins the family, please do even if we don't reach out and ask.
Many of us won't specifically ask for help or tell you what we need. However, I don't know a single adoptive mom who would turn down an offer to have a group of friends tidy/clean her house during those first few weeks at home with a new child. Likewise, coffee and chocolate are most always welcome and might be exactly what a new adoptive mom needs to get through those challenging times of adjustment!
Please don't try to get our child to like you the most.
Attachment and bonding are challenging enough without having friends and family slip our children candy, shower them with gifts, offer seconds at meals or encouraging bending and stretching of family rules. We're already working our tails off to get them to like us. With consistency and time they will learn to like you too, I promise.
Our adopted children had lives before they joined our family.
They had/have birth families and other relatives who are important to them and who deserve recognition and credit too. They have had life experiences that, while sometimes different than ours, are still special and valuable.
Be considerate of the types of questions that you ask about our child's background and personal history, especially in their presence and especially if they are old enough to understand.
Would it offend you if someone asked if you have AIDS, if you were abandoned, if your parents were drug users or how your parents died? If so, best not to ask these questions to someone else. We understand that it is normal to be curious and to wonder about the circumstances that led to a child's adoption. However, these are things that we discuss openly in our immediate family but not elsewhere. Our children may or may not choose to divulge more of their personal stories someday when they are older but they are THEIR stories and details to share, not mine.
Sometimes adopted children need to be parented differently than biological children.
We are not spoiling them. We aren't making excuses for poor behavior. Rather, we are parenting a child whose background may be very dissimilar to anything we've experienced. A child who has been abandoned and who has a fear of abandonment shouldn't be sent to time out alone in another room. A child who is still attaching to their adoptive family may need to be firmly held while having loving, affirming words whispered into their ear during a full-blown tantrum. The types of consequences that work for other children might not work for a child who doesn't have the same sense of value of their possessions and who doesn't understand what it means to have privileges. As parents, we must be flexible to help meet the individual needs of our child even if it means that we do things a little differently sometimes.
If you would like to give a gift to our new child, please consider something small that the whole family can enjoy together.
A few ideas are a frozen meal, a gift card to the movies, a small ornament commemorating the adoption or art supplies for all of the kids to share. We know that you want to welcome our new additions but gifts can be overwhelming for children who have had few material possessions. Also, we want our children to learn to love you for who you are, not for the fact that they hope they'll get another gift the next time they see you again. Other siblings may also experience jealousy and resentment if the new addition suddenly receives an armory of gifts and they are excluded.
Attachment takes time and work.
It doesn't happen overnight. Even if it appears that our child is securely attached to us it may take many months or years and every child and every family bonds differently. Many times we're faking it until we make it but one day we will wake up and realize that we're not faking it anymore and that our love is deep and real.
Parents who have recently added a child through adoption need support, friendship, love and encouragement.
Even if we're somewhat withdrawn and spending a lot of time at home cocooning with our new addition we value our friendships. Please continue to check up on us and to email, text, call or stop by. If you were in our life before we still want you in our life and in the lives of our children!
Please refrain from commenting on our child's appearance (specifically relating to ethnicity/race) in front of him or her.
All children want to feel included and to fit in. Pointing out how dark they are, how differently they look from the rest of us or how unique their hair feels only makes them feel like they stand out more.
Please do not ask adopted children if they like their new parents/family.
Adopted children do not usually get to hand pick their family. Adoption is similar to an arranged marriage and unique, sometimes very different people are brought together. With hard work and patience true love may grow. However, ask ANY child, biological or adopted (especially any older child!) if they like their parents and be prepared for some interesting answers!
It takes time to help children start to heal from a difficult past.
Just because they have been with us for a certain amount of time does not mean that the are "fixed". On the other hand, just because children are adopted does not necessarily mean that they will be any more difficult, defiant, less successful or anything else as teenagers or adults.
Educating your children about adoption and diversity helps my children.
Talking openly about adoption, children who look different than one or both parents and other "nontraditional" family structures helps our children feel accepted and secure at extracurricular activities, church, school and elsewhere in our community.
Our new additions are not celebrities.
We appreciate all of the love and support that we were shown during our adoption process and we know that everyone is excited to meet them. However, taking photos of just our adopted child or pouring attention on them while ignoring our other children is not healthy for anyone. The child who is receiving all of the attention often feels singled out and siblings quickly become resentful.
Our children may be "delayed" when they join our family but often they just need time.
Adopted children are placed into environments that may be very different than anything they've ever experienced. They may be overstimulated, confused and sometimes there are language barriers. With time and patience most emotional, intellectual and physical delays will be overcome.
Please do not tell us how amazing we (parents) are because we have chosen to adopt.
We know that this comment is usually intended as a compliment but our adopted kids are not burdens, charity cases or a community service project to be completed. As parents we gladly invest the time and energy needed to ensure the happiness and well-being of any of our children.
We may discourage physical contact with our child for the first several months that they are home or until we feel like they are securely attached to us.
Please do not insist on holding them, hugging them or having them sit on your lap. Many children who have lived in orphanages and institutions learn to fight for adult attention. Often they can put on quite the show and act like the most friendly, charming child to draw attention to themselves. While it may be cute and though it gives the false impression that they are well-adjusted and confident, it is very important that initially the parents are the only adults who help fulfill these children's need for physical affection. This also teaches healthy boundaries and is a safety consideration since no child, adopted or biological, should feel obligated to have close physical contact with someone that they do not know well.
We do not advertise our child's "cost".
If you would like to know how expensive our adoption process was, please ask when our children are not present, call after our kids are in bed or send us an email. Most adoptive families are happy to share our experiences and to provide helpful information but we do not ever want our children to feel like they were bought or that they are commodities.
When the going gets tough please do not ask if we regret our decision to adopt or imply that "we asked for it".
Few people would tell a sleep-deprived mother of a colicky newborn "well, you asked for this" and it would be considered rude to ask a new mother if she regretted her decision to have a baby. Just because something is difficult does not mean that we regret it. There are bumps in the road of every journey.
Even the happiest of adoptions are a result of challenging or difficult circumstances.
Though we like to think of adoption as a "happy ending", birth parents may have made difficult decisions, children may have faced losses and many lives were forever changed. Though most adopted children grow to be happy, well-adjusted adults and though most adoptive families are beautiful and full of love, it is important not to romanticize adoption.
And, most importantly:
No one is perfect.
If you slip and call our biological kids our "real" kids or if you've already asked "What happened to his mother?" we won't hold a grudge. We know that our family is different. We understand that it is impossible to be sensitive and politically correct in every situation all the time. These are ideas and suggestions, not commandments.
We appreciate that you care about our family. We cannot thank you enough for wanting to learn more about supporting and understanding the adoptive family and for helping make this transition as smooth as possible for all of us!
Contributed by Ashlee, author of the very popular blog: The Kitchen is Not My Office
_______________________________________________________________________________
Would you be so kind so drop a word about the article? Did you learn anything, something you never thought about?
-contessa
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Friday, December 28, 2012
U.S. Approval
Yes! We received the approval to the I-600a form! This tells the U.S. our intent to adopt from the DRC and they have approved us to do so. It's exciting to have some type of movement when we are just waiting to hear something from the courts in the DRC. We still have at least a month until we hear something. It could be up to two months. Hopefully not!!
We are getting ready to send the boys their first care package.
We had a wonderful relaxing Christmas. We pray that each of you keep our boys in your prayers and that you have a Wonderful 2013!
We are here to answer any questions about adoption too!
-contessa
We are getting ready to send the boys their first care package.
We had a wonderful relaxing Christmas. We pray that each of you keep our boys in your prayers and that you have a Wonderful 2013!
We are here to answer any questions about adoption too!
-contessa
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Birthday Boy
What do you say, how are you supposed to feel and act when you know across the world the boy you hold in your heart is having a birthday...that he doesn't even know about.
Happy Birthday A. Your Mommy and Daddy can't wait to meet you and begin our journey with you.
N's birthday is in June, oh how I wish so badly that we won't have to miss another.
I'm a wee bit bummed because I was told our dossier would be sent out yesterday afternoon. It wasn't. Probably won't be until Friday. I know it's all in God's hands, but everyday feels like a month when something doesn't move.
I've got a lot of these disappointments coming my way, so I had better chin up and carry on.
On a positive note, there are a bunch of people from our agency that will travel in January. That means there will be space at just about the right time for the boys to move in to the transition home. They try and keep the # around 30.
Thank you for keeping our family in your prayers, please pray that we can rest in His plans and timing in the upcoming months.
-Contessa
Happy Birthday A. Your Mommy and Daddy can't wait to meet you and begin our journey with you.
N's birthday is in June, oh how I wish so badly that we won't have to miss another.
I'm a wee bit bummed because I was told our dossier would be sent out yesterday afternoon. It wasn't. Probably won't be until Friday. I know it's all in God's hands, but everyday feels like a month when something doesn't move.
I've got a lot of these disappointments coming my way, so I had better chin up and carry on.
On a positive note, there are a bunch of people from our agency that will travel in January. That means there will be space at just about the right time for the boys to move in to the transition home. They try and keep the # around 30.
Thank you for keeping our family in your prayers, please pray that we can rest in His plans and timing in the upcoming months.
-Contessa
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Gracias
Ha, not sure why I'm speaking spanish on such a Freezing Cold day!
I have been thinking about how grateful we are to those that have given, encouraged, and prayed. Some gave so sacrificially it about brought us to our knees. Thank You isn't enough but hopefully knowing you followed the spirits calling and seeing the boys faces one day will be enough!
I was able to speak with our coordinator today. I tried to ask all the questions that have been building up. I need to start writing them down when I think of it!
My first question was what is next? Our dossier should head out to the DRC early next week (hopefully). At that point we will start out first waiting period. She said it could be around 4-6 weeks to get a verbal approval from the courts about adopting the boys. Although, I have heard of some cases taking 2-4 months. Father be with us! At that point once it is in written form they will technically be Wolverton's!! Hearing from other DRC mama's sometimes you don't even know you have a court date, all of a sudden you get word that they are your's! Let's pray it's sooner rather than later.
After that is another form to fill out, and waiting for Visas etc.
We can now start sending the boys care packages. We are beyond thrilled to be at this stage! We can send them clothes, books, and a family album. They will see our faces! We can do this once a month I believe. There are about 20 children in the house in the Mbuji Mayi region right now, so we can include a small sucker etc. for the other children that might not be matched yet. How exciting is that!?
I would love it if they could come home at the beginning of summer rather than the end. We need to transition those poor boys to this climate!! Please be in prayer with us that the rest of the process would go as smoothly and quickly as it has so far.
-contessa
P.S. Oh, and I looked at their birth certificates today. A was right at 6 lbs at birth, and N was 6.5. I don't know why but it just about brought me to tears. Just imagining their mother, father and family life. They need to come home.
I have been thinking about how grateful we are to those that have given, encouraged, and prayed. Some gave so sacrificially it about brought us to our knees. Thank You isn't enough but hopefully knowing you followed the spirits calling and seeing the boys faces one day will be enough!
I was able to speak with our coordinator today. I tried to ask all the questions that have been building up. I need to start writing them down when I think of it!
My first question was what is next? Our dossier should head out to the DRC early next week (hopefully). At that point we will start out first waiting period. She said it could be around 4-6 weeks to get a verbal approval from the courts about adopting the boys. Although, I have heard of some cases taking 2-4 months. Father be with us! At that point once it is in written form they will technically be Wolverton's!! Hearing from other DRC mama's sometimes you don't even know you have a court date, all of a sudden you get word that they are your's! Let's pray it's sooner rather than later.
After that is another form to fill out, and waiting for Visas etc.
We can now start sending the boys care packages. We are beyond thrilled to be at this stage! We can send them clothes, books, and a family album. They will see our faces! We can do this once a month I believe. There are about 20 children in the house in the Mbuji Mayi region right now, so we can include a small sucker etc. for the other children that might not be matched yet. How exciting is that!?
I would love it if they could come home at the beginning of summer rather than the end. We need to transition those poor boys to this climate!! Please be in prayer with us that the rest of the process would go as smoothly and quickly as it has so far.
-contessa
P.S. Oh, and I looked at their birth certificates today. A was right at 6 lbs at birth, and N was 6.5. I don't know why but it just about brought me to tears. Just imagining their mother, father and family life. They need to come home.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Zip, Zero, Nada
Yep, we have made our goal. A check will be mailed to our agency tomorrow.
I'm pretty much stunned. You know when you hear other people's stories and they seem so glamorous. You think wow that would be awesome!
But you can't ever imagine yourself in that position? Well, that was Contessa a couple months ago. I mean I heard The Lord speaking to my heart, telling me that things would be taken care of, but you just can't fathom how it will all come together!
Some if you reading this need to step out of that boat and believe!
Would you partner in praying that these next steps would go very quickly? We are concerned with the recent rebel attacks.
-contessa
That was Contessa a couple months ago.
I'm pretty much stunned. You know when you hear other people's stories and they seem so glamorous. You think wow that would be awesome!
But you can't ever imagine yourself in that position? Well, that was Contessa a couple months ago. I mean I heard The Lord speaking to my heart, telling me that things would be taken care of, but you just can't fathom how it will all come together!
Some if you reading this need to step out of that boat and believe!
Would you partner in praying that these next steps would go very quickly? We are concerned with the recent rebel attacks.
-contessa
That was Contessa a couple months ago.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Delighted
Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour. Mathew 15:28
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. " Matthew 17:20
Now I'm not trying to say I have perfect or even great faith. Though I did feel complete faith in the beginning of this journey that it would all come together. I'll admit though, I was thinking "God your going to get us this far and not provide the last $1,800?" Of course he likes to see if my faith will waver.
I had two very exciting phone calls today. Those calls bring us down to needing only...$670.00!!
Great is His faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see.
My heart though is troubled still because of the war that is brewing again in the DRC. M23 rebels have taken over an eastern city of Goma, and they are threatening to walk all the way to Kinshasa on the west side of DRC. Though I hear this would take approximately a year. They are gaining many as they go. I don't understand it all, it dates way back. I know it's not good. Children and women were heavily preyed upon in the past. Rape and child abductions were rampant. Children should never have to be forced to murder there own family. I know God is in control, and we live in a fallen world. We will never understand in this life.
Prayer is powerful. Imagine if it was your family your children, these are real people. Pray.
Another thing that is larger than life, and unimaginable! Just like this adoption looked in the beginning. It's a little foggy up ahead, and the road is as long as those trees are tall. He provides just enough clearing in the fog to see enough for today.
-contessa
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
A gift for Jesus
Many people have begun to realize our need for LESS and the need to GIVE more. Awesome!
And with Christmas being Jesus' birthday in a couple weeks don't you think we should be fretting more about the gift we give Him than others?
Does this mean we don't buy gifts for our loved one's... no I don't think so. For a long time though the stockings have been full and the Christmas tree bulging for our children and family that already have everything they need. When there are people who are living, but dying inside. Dying for a drink of clean water, dying for 1 meal, dying for a mosquito net to keep them safe one more night. Or possibly they are dying for a friend, dying to have a bit of encouragement passed along, maybe they are living in a country, at the risk of dying, all for His Glory.
What will you give Jesus for His birthday this year?
https://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Giving/gift_catalog/?pc=13831
http://www.compassion.com/catalog.htm
I'm only going to link to those, there are MANY to choose from.
And PLEASE click here for something really exciting...not happy that shopping at some of your favorite stores supports organizations you would rather not support? A portion of your Internet and local shopping will now be able to make an impact where YOU choose!
Check it out!
http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2012/11/01/before-you-spend-another-penny
And now for the final thought for today...oh wait, never mind! I did receive an email that said our dossier will be translated by Friday. Yay! Then it will be sent to the DRCongo once we turn in the money needed to accept the boys referral. We are still $1,800 short, so if you would like to give a gift to Jesus by helping the least of these and give these boys a home you can do that too! If you would like your donation tax deductible make a check out to College Heights Baptist Church, and get it to me or the church. If not, there is a pay pal link on the sidebar. Thanks!
Now for the final thought...I've always wanted to celebrate Christmas more than just on Christmas morning. I did not grow up with advent or such. I have found some pretty cool ideas floating around out there in Internet land. You might want to check them out. Gather that family of yours up each night by a cozy candle or fire and read a short verse or story leading up to Christ' birth. What better way to spend December.
Some of the ideas are simple and some more complex, doesn't matter...choose one!
http://simplemom.net/christmas-traditions/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+simplemom+%28Simple+Mom%29
-contessa
And with Christmas being Jesus' birthday in a couple weeks don't you think we should be fretting more about the gift we give Him than others?
Does this mean we don't buy gifts for our loved one's... no I don't think so. For a long time though the stockings have been full and the Christmas tree bulging for our children and family that already have everything they need. When there are people who are living, but dying inside. Dying for a drink of clean water, dying for 1 meal, dying for a mosquito net to keep them safe one more night. Or possibly they are dying for a friend, dying to have a bit of encouragement passed along, maybe they are living in a country, at the risk of dying, all for His Glory.
What will you give Jesus for His birthday this year?
https://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Giving/gift_catalog/?pc=13831
http://www.compassion.com/catalog.htm
I'm only going to link to those, there are MANY to choose from.
And PLEASE click here for something really exciting...not happy that shopping at some of your favorite stores supports organizations you would rather not support? A portion of your Internet and local shopping will now be able to make an impact where YOU choose!
Check it out!
http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2012/11/01/before-you-spend-another-penny
And now for the final thought for today...oh wait, never mind! I did receive an email that said our dossier will be translated by Friday. Yay! Then it will be sent to the DRCongo once we turn in the money needed to accept the boys referral. We are still $1,800 short, so if you would like to give a gift to Jesus by helping the least of these and give these boys a home you can do that too! If you would like your donation tax deductible make a check out to College Heights Baptist Church, and get it to me or the church. If not, there is a pay pal link on the sidebar. Thanks!
Now for the final thought...I've always wanted to celebrate Christmas more than just on Christmas morning. I did not grow up with advent or such. I have found some pretty cool ideas floating around out there in Internet land. You might want to check them out. Gather that family of yours up each night by a cozy candle or fire and read a short verse or story leading up to Christ' birth. What better way to spend December.
Some of the ideas are simple and some more complex, doesn't matter...choose one!
http://simplemom.net/christmas-traditions/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+simplemom+%28Simple+Mom%29
-contessa
Saturday, November 17, 2012
So close, I can taste it!
Yep, that's right folks! We are so close to meeting our goal.
Drumroll please...drdrdrdrdrdrddddrdrdr yah that's my drumroll in type haha!
We only need.........$1,800 more!!!
Can you believe it!?
Here's what happened this past week.
-$1620.00 in blessings from church family
-sold some more craft items and T-shirts
-money deposited from watching kiddos during bible study on Thursdays.
-Deposited $1,800 from us not having a house payment and overtime.
Now that might make you think hey, they only needed 4,000 last week and that adds up to pretty close that amount.
I have this problem with counting my eggs before they hatch. So last week I was counting in our house payment and another donation that I knew was coming.
Anyhow, can we just get a big AMEN?
I thought we would be down to the wire needing a huge amount but we aren't. God's totally got this (he always has, it's just really really hard to believe it!).
Now my thought are turning towards being anxious. I just want to get the money sent in and start working on bringing my boys home!
The dossier is most likely going to get translated Monday, at that point it is ready to be sent to the DRC for approval.
Coming up on Thanksgiving, we are truly humbled and Thankful for each and every donation and heart behind it. It is such a blessing to know that we have friends and family that want to support us in this way. Also that share our heart for the orphan. Some have given sacrificially, and even though it humbles us we are so excited to see their obedience. It makes me excited for the future, to be able to support others in the same way.
Thank You
Something I'm thinking about.
It has said to me that the boys will latch on to the first thing that we give them. It will probably be the first thing that has been just theirs. I want this item to be special. I'm thinking a blanket or stuffed animal for the plane ride. Let me know if you see anything that you think would be a contender!
Well, we have just under two weeks left to meet our deadline. I wonder if we can bust through this thing and turn it in early!?
-contessa
Drumroll please...drdrdrdrdrdrddddrdrdr yah that's my drumroll in type haha!
We only need.........$1,800 more!!!
Can you believe it!?
Here's what happened this past week.
-$1620.00 in blessings from church family
-sold some more craft items and T-shirts
-money deposited from watching kiddos during bible study on Thursdays.
-Deposited $1,800 from us not having a house payment and overtime.
Now that might make you think hey, they only needed 4,000 last week and that adds up to pretty close that amount.
I have this problem with counting my eggs before they hatch. So last week I was counting in our house payment and another donation that I knew was coming.
Anyhow, can we just get a big AMEN?
I thought we would be down to the wire needing a huge amount but we aren't. God's totally got this (he always has, it's just really really hard to believe it!).
Now my thought are turning towards being anxious. I just want to get the money sent in and start working on bringing my boys home!
The dossier is most likely going to get translated Monday, at that point it is ready to be sent to the DRC for approval.
Coming up on Thanksgiving, we are truly humbled and Thankful for each and every donation and heart behind it. It is such a blessing to know that we have friends and family that want to support us in this way. Also that share our heart for the orphan. Some have given sacrificially, and even though it humbles us we are so excited to see their obedience. It makes me excited for the future, to be able to support others in the same way.
Thank You
Something I'm thinking about.
It has said to me that the boys will latch on to the first thing that we give them. It will probably be the first thing that has been just theirs. I want this item to be special. I'm thinking a blanket or stuffed animal for the plane ride. Let me know if you see anything that you think would be a contender!
Well, we have just under two weeks left to meet our deadline. I wonder if we can bust through this thing and turn it in early!?
-contessa
Saturday, November 10, 2012
The Difference A Week Makes
Last Sunday we were in need of 14,000 to officially accept the boys. Now, we have officially done this in our hearts, but we have to put our money where our hearts are!
I want to share with you what has happened this last week.
-3,100 taken in from Church love offering.
-I sold many of our craft items
-refinanced our house to a 15yr loan for just a little less than $100 increase to our monthly payment!! From this we will receive a check for around $850, and our December payment can go towards the adoption!
-found out that our home study is $1,000 more than we realized, but we can make smaller payments. Allowing us to use most of the money we had saved for the referral.
-$500 donation
- great news from our agency that a little over $1,000 isn't needed because of the region the boys are from.
So once I get all those checks etc. in the bank it looks like we are down to needing right at $4,000!!!!
Can you believe it? Yes, that is still a sizable amount but I just know this is going to happen people!
It is sooo hard to fully rely on God. Over and over He has told me to not to devise mans schemes for this money. It is so easy to come up with ways to earn it or make it appear.
William and I were able to talk about it and I shared again that I thought God was confirming this in my heart. We prayed that He would make it clear. Did you know God works through Facebook? ;). Lo and behold this quote was posted on a "hospital" in Haiti's page...
Why do I not call on His name? Why do I run to this neighbor and that when God is so near and will hear my faintest call? Why do I sit down and devise schemes and invent plans? Why not at once roll myself and my burden upon The Lord?
Devotion -Streams in the dessert
I have had that same phrase "devise men's schemes"on my mind for awhile now, and it's not something you run into very often ;).
There is so much more I want to say that is on my heart. So much I am learning and so much that He is doing but it's time for bed!
Couple quick facts really fast though
-the boys do not and will not know any English. Maybe 1-2 words.
They pick it up so fast I hear though! We are going to learn some handy phrases before travel.
-N will be Congolese potty trained ;) meaning they kind of pee wherever. So we'll work towards getting it in the toilet. I told one of the agency coordinators that I'm glad I don't have house plants! She got a huge kick out of that, surprised she hadn't heard that before! ;)
-we will be able to send care packages and a family album but not until certain steps have been covered with the adoption.
Goodnight!
I want to share with you what has happened this last week.
-3,100 taken in from Church love offering.
-I sold many of our craft items
-refinanced our house to a 15yr loan for just a little less than $100 increase to our monthly payment!! From this we will receive a check for around $850, and our December payment can go towards the adoption!
-found out that our home study is $1,000 more than we realized, but we can make smaller payments. Allowing us to use most of the money we had saved for the referral.
-$500 donation
- great news from our agency that a little over $1,000 isn't needed because of the region the boys are from.
So once I get all those checks etc. in the bank it looks like we are down to needing right at $4,000!!!!
Can you believe it? Yes, that is still a sizable amount but I just know this is going to happen people!
It is sooo hard to fully rely on God. Over and over He has told me to not to devise mans schemes for this money. It is so easy to come up with ways to earn it or make it appear.
William and I were able to talk about it and I shared again that I thought God was confirming this in my heart. We prayed that He would make it clear. Did you know God works through Facebook? ;). Lo and behold this quote was posted on a "hospital" in Haiti's page...
Why do I not call on His name? Why do I run to this neighbor and that when God is so near and will hear my faintest call? Why do I sit down and devise schemes and invent plans? Why not at once roll myself and my burden upon The Lord?
Devotion -Streams in the dessert
I have had that same phrase "devise men's schemes"on my mind for awhile now, and it's not something you run into very often ;).
There is so much more I want to say that is on my heart. So much I am learning and so much that He is doing but it's time for bed!
Couple quick facts really fast though
-the boys do not and will not know any English. Maybe 1-2 words.
They pick it up so fast I hear though! We are going to learn some handy phrases before travel.
-N will be Congolese potty trained ;) meaning they kind of pee wherever. So we'll work towards getting it in the toilet. I told one of the agency coordinators that I'm glad I don't have house plants! She got a huge kick out of that, surprised she hadn't heard that before! ;)
-we will be able to send care packages and a family album but not until certain steps have been covered with the adoption.
Goodnight!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Craft Fair Items
I am going to list the leftover items I have from the craft fair today. It went ok, not sure how people do at those things. We made $260 :)
I will post the asking price I had at the fair, but everything is OBO!
First we have lovely wooden growth charts $45
We also have some canvas art prints. There are plain ones to add your own 5x7, some with a picture. $20
I also have 1 nativity scene left and 1 Shepard scene. $45
Then we have vegetable dip mixes, 1-$2.00 or 3-$5. Yum! Not a traditional ranch dip.
And a dry rub 2-$7
Double yum! Ask my family!
Next up is garland/swag thingies haha! The sky is the limit as to how you could use one. Hang on the fireplace, use in an archway, decorate Christmas tree, hang vertically and clip Christmas cards. All different seasons represented. $20
And last would be our T-shirts!
Please Call or TEXT to purchase. 260-3170, 398-8293
Thanks!
I will post the asking price I had at the fair, but everything is OBO!
First we have lovely wooden growth charts $45
We also have some canvas art prints. There are plain ones to add your own 5x7, some with a picture. $20
I also have 1 nativity scene left and 1 Shepard scene. $45
Then we have vegetable dip mixes, 1-$2.00 or 3-$5. Yum! Not a traditional ranch dip.
And a dry rub 2-$7
Double yum! Ask my family!
Next up is garland/swag thingies haha! The sky is the limit as to how you could use one. Hang on the fireplace, use in an archway, decorate Christmas tree, hang vertically and clip Christmas cards. All different seasons represented. $20
And last would be our T-shirts!
Please Call or TEXT to purchase. 260-3170, 398-8293
Thanks!
Friday, November 2, 2012
We're Expecting!!
That's right folks, we're expecting brothers from the DRC! "A" will be 5 in December, and "N" is 2 1/2. They have the sweetest little faces, and if you see one of us personally we will be more than happy to let you see them. Unfortunately, we cannot share there pictures across the world wide web.
As most of you know we have been awaiting this email from our agency for over a week now! We spoke on the phone about the boys but couldn't share anything until we received our written referral. Now the count is on. We have 30 days to turn in our dossier (which is complete, just needs to be scanned and sent in) and come up with $14,000! He hee hmmmm...you know what though, I am not at all scared or unsure that this need will be met. We had a wonderful revival at our church this past week, and Sunday's sermon was about miracles. People, God is still in the miracle business!
I'll admit at times I have to give it over, but more and more especially this last week I have had a peace.
I've spoken to a couple people about my thoughts and feelings about getting attached to these children. Reading many adoption blogs, I've found that when people would speak about the children and talk so intently that they were theirs etc, it made me kind of roll my eyes. You see anything can happen. They could travel home next summer and be ours forever, or in a couple months one could pass away from the sub-standard living conditions, or from not having enough food to eat. Possibly even the government could stop or halt the adoption process. Anything can happen, but I have realized that just as much the child that is carried in the womb that has been lost and taken to heaven was that women's child, these are the children that God has placed in our hearts and we will do everything to bring them home. And in the unfortunate event they are never placed to live with us they will have a place within our hearts.
How could we work for over a year towards bringing them home without getting attached? Am I supposed to stay guarded and then when everything works out the way we think, I am supposed to all of a sudden love them? No, we love them now and it will continue to grow as we work towards making them Wolverton's.
I don't say that because I think anyone reading has those thoughts that I have had. Just a way for me to think through these crazy thoughts rolling around in my brain. :)
More about the boys, "A" has the most beautiful skin and the most kissable lips! He, being almost 5, looks to be unsure about his surroundings and this new life and more aware. What loss and pain. You can see, in his giant eyes, he carries the burdens of a Bigger Brother at all too young an age, and we know God has a plan to bring him and his small Brother out of their current world. -William takes credit for the last sentence.
They have been in the orphanage since last spring. "N" has THE cutest little smile, and tiny little teeth. His eyes are so big and brown, and a cute button nose. His genuine happy expression is so innocent and pure that it would be humanly impossible not to instantly fall in love with him! -William wrote that last sentence. :)
More information to come later. We'll get you updated on the next steps after turning in the dossier and money. If everything goes as it has been going we should be travelling next summer.
I have a bunch of crafts and stuff to sell at the What Women Want Craft show tomorrow, so stop on by. SoHi 10-5.
-The Wolvertons
As most of you know we have been awaiting this email from our agency for over a week now! We spoke on the phone about the boys but couldn't share anything until we received our written referral. Now the count is on. We have 30 days to turn in our dossier (which is complete, just needs to be scanned and sent in) and come up with $14,000! He hee hmmmm...you know what though, I am not at all scared or unsure that this need will be met. We had a wonderful revival at our church this past week, and Sunday's sermon was about miracles. People, God is still in the miracle business!
I'll admit at times I have to give it over, but more and more especially this last week I have had a peace.
I've spoken to a couple people about my thoughts and feelings about getting attached to these children. Reading many adoption blogs, I've found that when people would speak about the children and talk so intently that they were theirs etc, it made me kind of roll my eyes. You see anything can happen. They could travel home next summer and be ours forever, or in a couple months one could pass away from the sub-standard living conditions, or from not having enough food to eat. Possibly even the government could stop or halt the adoption process. Anything can happen, but I have realized that just as much the child that is carried in the womb that has been lost and taken to heaven was that women's child, these are the children that God has placed in our hearts and we will do everything to bring them home. And in the unfortunate event they are never placed to live with us they will have a place within our hearts.
How could we work for over a year towards bringing them home without getting attached? Am I supposed to stay guarded and then when everything works out the way we think, I am supposed to all of a sudden love them? No, we love them now and it will continue to grow as we work towards making them Wolverton's.
I don't say that because I think anyone reading has those thoughts that I have had. Just a way for me to think through these crazy thoughts rolling around in my brain. :)
More about the boys, "A" has the most beautiful skin and the most kissable lips! He, being almost 5, looks to be unsure about his surroundings and this new life and more aware. What loss and pain. You can see, in his giant eyes, he carries the burdens of a Bigger Brother at all too young an age, and we know God has a plan to bring him and his small Brother out of their current world. -William takes credit for the last sentence.
They have been in the orphanage since last spring. "N" has THE cutest little smile, and tiny little teeth. His eyes are so big and brown, and a cute button nose. His genuine happy expression is so innocent and pure that it would be humanly impossible not to instantly fall in love with him! -William wrote that last sentence. :)
More information to come later. We'll get you updated on the next steps after turning in the dossier and money. If everything goes as it has been going we should be travelling next summer.
I have a bunch of crafts and stuff to sell at the What Women Want Craft show tomorrow, so stop on by. SoHi 10-5.
-The Wolvertons
Monday, October 15, 2012
T-shirts!
The t-shirts have arrived! They turned out really well. Don't forget to tell family and friends. They will also make great presents!
The sizes are:
(They are said to be pre-shrunk)
Adult (regular men's cut)- M,L,XL
Women's- M,L,XL
Youth- XS(2-4), S(6-8), M(10-12), L(14-16)
Adult-$22
Youth-$15
I have limited selection in each size, I can always order more (I have 79 toal so I should have enough!)
Please include $2.00 for shipping, if I will be mailing it to you.
You may PayPal by using the donate button in the side bar.
Or you may write a check made out to William or I.
The sizes are:
(They are said to be pre-shrunk)
Adult (regular men's cut)- M,L,XL
Women's- M,L,XL
Youth- XS(2-4), S(6-8), M(10-12), L(14-16)
Adult-$22
Youth-$15
I have limited selection in each size, I can always order more (I have 79 toal so I should have enough!)
Please include $2.00 for shipping, if I will be mailing it to you.
You may PayPal by using the donate button in the side bar.
Or you may write a check made out to William or I.
Actual Womens and Youth Color Below
Actual Mens Color Below
Questions, Please Call!
-Contessa
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Full Steam Ahead
Looks like we are about less than two weeks away from sending our dossier in to our agency!
Some of you heard about the Sequoia having a malfunction in our driveway...
We can all imagine what could have happened if I had been on the highway. The lower ball joint totally broke. God is so merciful to us, and let us land not quite halfway in the driveway. And to top it off a friend told us we should check to see if it had a recall. Lo, and behold it did! What are the chances? So Toyota took the brunt of the repairs. I did have to make two trips to Anchorage to have the body work done. We did have the upper ball joints replaced because it's almost time anyhow, and the mechanic had it all tore apart and that cost was on Toyota.
The day before we went to go pick up the car, my computer got a virus that wiped it out completely! Ack! William was able to restore it back to a couple days prior, but there were some things missing. More importantly, pictures! My amazing brother in law was able to find the hidden files. Thank you God!
We are feeling the fire. God is absolutely winning this battle though!
It looks as though since we are open to adopting an older child (above 3), we should not have to wait for a referral. Pretty much as soon as we turn in the dossier, there are some boys who are available.
Would you please pray that God will give us discernment? It's not an easy thing choosing a child! We ask that God would make it very clear whom he wants to be a Wolverton.
Also, the daunting feeling of needing around $8,000 for a single child and $18,000 for a sibling set. That will be due when we accept our referral which could happen as soon as 2 weeks!
People have been so gracious and answered the call to give selflessly! We cannot thank you enough.
We do not know where or how the money needed will show up. What we do know is that God will provide.
Please continue to pray that this next step goes smoothly, that all of our paperwork looks acceptable, and that we could fully trust in Him.
~Our T-shirts should be available soon! Very exciting. We have many sizes available, and a men's and women's cut. Your welcome, your very welcome ladies. ;)
(They will not have the paper background)
As always, I love to hear what your thinking! :)
Some of you heard about the Sequoia having a malfunction in our driveway...
We can all imagine what could have happened if I had been on the highway. The lower ball joint totally broke. God is so merciful to us, and let us land not quite halfway in the driveway. And to top it off a friend told us we should check to see if it had a recall. Lo, and behold it did! What are the chances? So Toyota took the brunt of the repairs. I did have to make two trips to Anchorage to have the body work done. We did have the upper ball joints replaced because it's almost time anyhow, and the mechanic had it all tore apart and that cost was on Toyota.
The day before we went to go pick up the car, my computer got a virus that wiped it out completely! Ack! William was able to restore it back to a couple days prior, but there were some things missing. More importantly, pictures! My amazing brother in law was able to find the hidden files. Thank you God!
We are feeling the fire. God is absolutely winning this battle though!
It looks as though since we are open to adopting an older child (above 3), we should not have to wait for a referral. Pretty much as soon as we turn in the dossier, there are some boys who are available.
Would you please pray that God will give us discernment? It's not an easy thing choosing a child! We ask that God would make it very clear whom he wants to be a Wolverton.
Also, the daunting feeling of needing around $8,000 for a single child and $18,000 for a sibling set. That will be due when we accept our referral which could happen as soon as 2 weeks!
People have been so gracious and answered the call to give selflessly! We cannot thank you enough.
We do not know where or how the money needed will show up. What we do know is that God will provide.
Please continue to pray that this next step goes smoothly, that all of our paperwork looks acceptable, and that we could fully trust in Him.
~Our T-shirts should be available soon! Very exciting. We have many sizes available, and a men's and women's cut. Your welcome, your very welcome ladies. ;)
As always, I love to hear what your thinking! :)
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Knee Deep
In paperwork!
Really it's a good thing though, because it means we are one step closer to bringing a sweet child(ren) into our home! We have 13 documents to work on, and 1 we have to file with the U.S. Government. Some are simple are some require a bit more effort and brain power. :)
I should be speaking with our agency tomorrow, hopefully we will have some news.
We are working towards finishing the dossier by the end of October. At that point we will be ready to accept a referral. If we ask to be on the sibling list, it could be up to 6 months. We are also open to looking at some waiting children. Once we accept the referral we would be looking at 6-9 months before we would travel!
Would you pray with us that we can compile all of the documents, and we would have clarity of mind to do it correctly?
I ordered the T-shirts, so those should be ready in less than two weeks.
-Contessa
Really it's a good thing though, because it means we are one step closer to bringing a sweet child(ren) into our home! We have 13 documents to work on, and 1 we have to file with the U.S. Government. Some are simple are some require a bit more effort and brain power. :)
I should be speaking with our agency tomorrow, hopefully we will have some news.
We are working towards finishing the dossier by the end of October. At that point we will be ready to accept a referral. If we ask to be on the sibling list, it could be up to 6 months. We are also open to looking at some waiting children. Once we accept the referral we would be looking at 6-9 months before we would travel!
Would you pray with us that we can compile all of the documents, and we would have clarity of mind to do it correctly?
I ordered the T-shirts, so those should be ready in less than two weeks.
-Contessa
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Baby Baby!
This post won't be exactly adoption themed, although all the money from donations I make will go straight towards the adoption! I couldn't resist capturing some sweet pictures of baby A. So precious and tiny!
It will be missed, that time of newborn smell and touch when we finally get to meet our new one. On the other hand, I do pray that his/her mother did get to cherish that time while she could...
On to the pictures!
It will be missed, that time of newborn smell and touch when we finally get to meet our new one. On the other hand, I do pray that his/her mother did get to cherish that time while she could...
On to the pictures!
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