Thanks!

Thank you for praying with us. Unfortunately, we once again did not pass. It is my understanding they didn't even have court because the power was out and no one would have their approval letters.

We have asked the agency to push for a closer date. (We were given April 25th). We've also asked that they ask for the letter ahead of time--even though this is not typically done. We'll see what happens. The big worry is that Matt has to be in Beijing for most of June! If this is put off too much longer we could be in trouble!

Tuesday

I heard that the Parent Teacher Fellowship was having a cookie decorating class and I had to go! I learned many good tips even though I didn't get to stay the whole time. Can't wait to try some more at home!

I always lug my camera to school. Today it poured in the afternoon and there was no chance of getting any good pictures. I started playing around with Matt's desk and got this cute photo. I had to change the background, but will definitely try this again. Next time I'll wipe the fingerprints off his desk!

Now Is the Time to Pray Hard!!!

Our caseworker told us that there is no power at the Ministry of Women's Affairs. Therefore, they have NOT written our letter. The Ethiopian caseworker will go back in the morning and see if he can get them to HAND WRITE a letter. Please pray that they are accommodating. We are TIRED!! God has power over these earthly officials--He can do this!

THANK YOU!! VAL

A Strong Fashion Sense

Words aren't really necessary! I have a feeling she's going to be a child that you don't want to let dress herself!

A Normal Day

Usually by the time Matt gets home at 5:15-5:30, Ana is sooo ready to see him (so is mommy)! She waits at the gate to surprise him. Sometimes she screams, sometimes she dances... you never really know what LOUD thing she'll do! She definitely is a daddy's girl!

“Dramatic B&W” Photo Challenge!

I have no practice with Black and White, but thought I would give it a try anyway! Head on over to i heart faces to see all the other entries!

Please Pray!

Tomorrow is our Court Date (Fifth time around is the charm?). We have all the necessary paperwork EXCEPT the approval letter from the Ministry of Women's Affairs. They only send this letter on the day of your court date. It's been a LONG month of waiting and we would appreciate it if you would plead with God on our behalf!

Thanks!

Fix It Friday

Original
My Fix

For the first time I'm trying my hand at Fix It Friday. It's so interesting to see everyone's changes! Head on over to iheart faces to see more!

Going, Going, Gone

We got this tricycle a long time ago, but Ana's legs were just too short to push the pedals. She must have grown an inch or two, because she can really move along. Thankfully we're on the second floor--so she can't really get loose! It's a great way to burn off some more energy of which she has plenty!

Jumpers

You never know what will keep children occupied. This weekend Analia spent a good while with her friend jumping off a rolled up rug! They are hilarious together because Ana likes to hold his hand and give him hugs and not give him any breathing room (note the hold she has on his neck!). Meanwhile he needs his space--so for now it's Ana chasing him! I can't wait until her brothers are here for her to play with!

Bundled Up

This isn't the world's greatest picture, but I love seeing the JOY on her face! We live in Singapore (where it NEVER gets below 70) and Ana so enjoyed her two months of winter in the States! And boy did I bundle her up!

See other great photos over at iheartfaces!

Slow Down!

Father daughter karaoke!

I've met a lot of strong willed kids during my teaching career, but Ana tops them all! This is her response to "Please stop picking your nose!" I told her I was going to take a picture that would embarrass her for the rest of her life, but that didn't bother her!

The fund run walk!

Daddy shared his donut!

We keep life very simple intentionally. It gives us time to play and enjoy time as a family. But, this weekend was another story! We had the ICS Fund Run. We walked five kilometers at the beautiful West Coast Park. The rain trees are one of my favorite things in Singapore! It was nice to catch up with friends I rarely see and enjoy the gorgeous walk. Matt was given a box of Krispy Kreme donuts which made his day!

We then hurried home, grabbed a quick shower, lunch, and nap. In the afternoon we went over to a friend's house. Ana got about an hour in the pool. As it was just after a rain shower she had it all to herself! Karaoke was the purpose of this little visit. We did also have grilled chicken, lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and grapes. Yum!!

On Sunday we went to church, had a small birthday party for one of Ana's classmates, and went to school so that Matt could work on his master's classes. We didn't get home until dinner.

Jump For Joy

I usually don't have pictures that go with the theme--so

today I took a few! It's not hard to get a two year old to

jump! I definitely learned a thing or two about my camera

in the process! Hooray for challenges!

Head on over to I Heart Faces for more jumping!

Dashing About

Lately we've...

-went to school to say hello to everyone. Ana ate tons of snacks from all the aunties. She also played on the playground and was pushed for about 15 minutes by one of the Indian uncles.

-had a little boy decorate our wall. Matt went to get him to clean it up and the father sent the older brother instead!

-been riding the bus. Ana likes to set up top. There is a mirror so that the bus driver can see what's happening up there. She kept saying "hi" to him through the scope. I just had to catch this cute picture of daddy and daughter on the bus.

-attended a Korean concert. The drums were really good! There were lots of other great performances as well. Of course, we didn't understand a lot of it, but we enjoyed it!

-ate with friends at a Chinese restaurant. It was the first time they've been there. I think they enjoyed most of it!

New Pictures

I was happy to receive updates on the boys today. I didn't notice until Matt showed me that there were pictures which is even better! As you can see China has gained a lot of weight! Behailu is about Ana's size--a little shorter and a little lighter. Like his pink shoes?

Missing...

I've had some culture shock--even though I've lived here 10 years. It's sooo noisy and crowded and hot! The 60+ temperature difference is tough! BUT, Ana has had her fish balls and played in the fountain and watched all the people passing by and is quite content. (I think we're raising a city girl!)

As for me I look at this beautiful sunset taken in wide open places with fresh air and give a little sigh...

Jet Lag

Oh my!! Ana was awake from 11:30 pm to 4:00am and then only took an hour nap. It's enough to make you cry!