tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11394390095428008452011-12-03T19:44:52.703-08:00Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.comBlogger3111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-52120012434879281152010-08-30T08:55:00.000-07:002010-08-30T08:55:47.686-07:00

Just a reminder that I have relocated my blog.  Make sure you mosy on over and follow me and/or update your readers  and bookmarks if you want to keep up with Our Family Adventures. Check out the new look and read a Homeschool Rant by clicking here.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-67669341080606474992010-08-13T13:47:00.000-07:002010-08-13T13:47:20.792-07:00

Hi all, In order to represent the next chapter in our lives, I'm moving the blog here. Hope you'll tag along. Lena

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-84766658674740648712010-08-08T11:05:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:04:30.703-07:00

It has been a heavy week. A friend has lost a parent. Another friend has a grandparent in the hospital. A pregnant friend is having some scary health concerns. Another family is dealing with severe burns of their 6 year old daughter. And another family of a friend lost their mom to cancer. And there is the ongoing suffering of people I love, in Haiti. My heart hurts for each of these dear

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-59180413664703251922010-08-07T19:03:00.000-07:002010-08-08T22:57:52.764-07:00

My boys' both speak English very well....they understand a lot.  And yet, there is so much that has to be explained. Today, we were talking about turkeys.  I don't know why, but we were.  And me, thinking of the food similarities said that turkeys were like big chickens.  Different, but similar.  Trying to explain similar-not the same, different, but like one another.  Yeah, I don't know how

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-18581366718104479652010-08-02T21:16:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:05:07.157-07:00

This is going to sound judgmental. I don't intend it to be. But I have something on my mind. It's been bothering me for a while now.  And it keeps coming up. I don't have the answers  or solutions. I'd like to hear your thoughts. Where I live, kids are starting back to school.  Some started today, in fact.  Another school starts later this week.  And a bunch more start next week.  Hard to

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-23903080581618068312010-07-21T18:02:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:05:47.724-07:00

July is a big month in our family. It was two years ago this month that I met the boys for the first time.   A few short weeks later, we decided and committed to adopting our sons. It is six months since the earthquake, and one week later, the boys came home. It is now also our OFFICIAL ADOPTION DAY!! Yep.  Today is the day that a court made it official-establishing the legal relationship of

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-7858465847699832662010-07-17T21:24:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:06:18.454-07:00

Today, I was leaving the grocery store.  It was hot.  Like 110 or so.  I had 2 hot and thirsty kids with me, plus our cart full of groceries.  As I was loading the kids and the groceries into the car, I was approached by a woman.  I saw her out of the corner of my eye, and looked up.  She said "hi.  if you ever need a break, call me.  you're obviously a foster parent.  I run a day care right here

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-44351380492998478822010-06-19T15:55:00.001-07:002010-08-08T12:06:29.772-07:00

You must read this.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-61942076921990802082010-04-19T15:24:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:06:42.051-07:00

Today marks 90 days/three months since we got to the boys in Florida. We spent our first night together as a family on American soil. Then traveled home to Arizona together the next day. Wow. Three months! Both boys have each gained somewhere between three and four pounds. Even my picky eater. (who might possibly be the first child to TURN into a hot-dog, due to excessive consumption, he'd

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-22297239546224886922010-04-06T14:21:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:07:16.862-07:00

We've been together as a family of four for ten weeks now. Can you believe it? I can't. It's that same strange time warp feeling I've written about before. It feels like the boys have always been here, and yet, it feels like they just got here yesterday. It's amazing. I said to Bob the other day "We didn't even make these kids ourselves, and yet, they're just like us." It's so awesome to

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-37317794504336389422010-04-03T09:32:00.001-07:002010-08-08T12:07:37.204-07:00

We were talking about Good Friday and Easter. They understand it pretty well. One of the boys says that when Jesus comes back to get us we are going to take an airplane to go up in the sky. The other boy is convinced that Jesus is coming back on Monday, because He said He would come back after He raised from the dead. And everyone knows that Monday is after Sunday.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-71450624878383628022010-03-30T10:46:00.001-07:002010-08-08T12:07:54.418-07:00

We went to the park yesterday and played for a while. We also walked around the "lake" (pond) and fed the ducks. These are some of our friends...Vanilla Vanessa is hiding behind her big brother Kyle and Ashlyn is in the blue. The cheese-ball is John Baptiste and Steeve is looking all serious. The mama-mobile.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-86691825593638476852010-03-14T22:50:00.000-07:002010-08-08T12:08:47.675-07:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-10249775733730360932010-03-12T09:19:00.000-08:002010-08-08T12:09:07.940-07:00

This is great: I don't want my children to be happy. I have thought the same thing many times, but could not express it as clearly as this author. I've called myself a "mean mama" many times. And I'm okay with that. :-)

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-60850776663637084022010-02-23T10:39:00.000-08:002010-08-08T12:09:21.387-07:00

These are in reverse chronological order....the oldest ones are at the bottom...the school open house was last night, Feb. 22, and the bottom ones are from January.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-27088559104172803822010-02-22T21:12:00.000-08:002010-02-22T21:13:01.793-08:00

A great post here.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-25298133679169186062010-02-11T05:43:00.001-08:002010-02-11T05:43:46.766-08:00

From Eric in Haiti now: We went to the Methodist Guest House and Donnette came running down to give me a big hug, they are all OK. The house next to them is gone and their side walls too, the MGH is good.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-79608157665152841662010-02-07T14:30:00.000-08:002010-02-07T14:31:45.667-08:00

Click here to read about it and how to enter.Pretty cool....I hope I win!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-91097354963381104612010-02-05T21:00:00.000-08:002010-02-05T21:08:20.912-08:00

From Dossier to Haiti to boys home with us: 316 daysOr 10 months, 10 daysFrom our application to adopt from the creche to Dossier to Haiti:224 daysOr 7 months, 9 daysTotal time from meeting the boys, deciding to adopt and until they came home = 540 daysOr 1 year, 5 months, 22 daystime at home (as of today) as a family of 4 = 17 days

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-4186704921626165152010-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:002010-02-02T12:00:19.923-08:00

UNICEF – A Call to Action

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-74482294658834861392010-02-01T14:00:00.000-08:002010-02-01T14:01:46.245-08:00

Info from USCIS about pending adoptions....click hereWhat do you make of this? Clear as mud?

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-5596408214223516652010-01-27T21:59:00.000-08:002010-01-27T22:02:23.734-08:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-36895485329463783632010-01-26T20:26:00.000-08:002010-01-26T20:29:12.451-08:00

http://www.mediafire.com/?jmij2mzjmzd

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-76876868604057191012010-01-21T10:00:00.000-08:002010-01-21T10:03:54.563-08:00

Just a real quick update, after 36 hours of traveling. We.Are.Home. All.Four.Of.Us.I still can hardly believe it. But I know it's true. Seems like they have alway been here.God is great.Please continue to pray for our family.Also, continue to fight for the children of Haiti-who haven't been able to get out yet. Pray for Haiti. Make donations. What I'm hearing is that the smaller groups/

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-1410640915460815792010-01-17T18:14:00.000-08:002010-01-17T18:29:08.725-08:00

I am taking this info directly from Kristen Howerton, another adoptive mother from Heartline. She did a great job informing us on what we can do. All of us mothers and fathers are trying to mobilize our energy to get our children home. It’s very difficult to have our children in Haiti right now when if only they could be granted humanitarian parole, we could get them out of there as relief

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-2418182804729186752010-01-16T15:57:00.001-08:002010-01-16T15:57:59.756-08:00

Haiti adopting parents register your adoption with this organization, if you haven't already. They are lobbying for our kids to get humanitarian parole status. They say that Haiti has already lifted all exit restrictions. Now it's up the USA, Hillary and Janet... Pray people, pray. God is bigger than ALL of this. ...He can do it. http://www.jcics.org/index.htm

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-9228254548705129052010-01-14T16:10:00.001-08:002010-01-14T16:12:52.435-08:00

I rec'd this from a fellow adoptive parent in Indiana. PASS IT ON. PRAY. LenaBelow is a portion of the briefing our office received from the Department of State in Washington . I wanted to make you aware of the information right away. I will contact you once any new information when it becomes available.Adoptions InfoU.S. citizens with pending adoption cases in Haiti are requested to contact

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-70901977478501054462010-01-14T07:39:00.000-08:002010-01-14T07:40:42.328-08:00

Go here to read a first hand account of an adoptive mom in Haiti right now.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-71312297514037811012010-01-14T07:31:00.000-08:002010-01-14T07:32:28.682-08:00

"So many need prayer, I don't even know where to start. One thing I will add is that we are praying for a miracle that maybe somehow the governments can work together to expedite the kids who are matched with families OUT of Haiti. There are many more orphans now who will need the beds at the orphanages. Let these kids come home! From the president of the board of directors at our orphanage:I

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-35894585205631887072010-01-13T08:28:00.000-08:002010-01-13T08:38:19.776-08:00

Praising God that the children of Three Angels Children's Relief ("Angel House") are safe. Shortly after 11pm Arizona time on Weds, we rec'd word that Abbey (the American living there at the moment) got them out to safety and they stayed outside in an open area, away from the buildings. They have some food, water and fuel for the generator. please pray for ongoing safety-they really need God's

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-78872627011990576092010-01-12T21:34:00.000-08:002010-01-12T21:57:29.738-08:00

Lord, I thank you and praise you that NO MATTER WHAT, you are in control. You are God of the Universe, the Creator and You are in control. No matter what it looks like, no matter what I can see or not see. You are God and for that, I am thankful. Lord, thank you for the gift of family and friends, near and far. People who pray, people who know you and love you and serve. Thank you for those

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-14385905584196477542010-01-08T11:51:00.001-08:002010-01-08T11:54:40.261-08:00

exactly where in the Haitian adoption process is "Civil Judgment" ? It may be a step just before Parquet, or it may be a(n) (early) step in Parquet.It is not listed here, which is the most recent info I have been able to find on the Haitian adoption process by someone working on them in Haiti. Does anybody know?

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-7525701885901082002010-01-06T12:19:00.000-08:002010-01-06T12:22:37.776-08:00

God has placed a heavy burden on my heart today. Please join me in praying for our military men and women, specifically those in combat zones. Pray for the whole military, including their families....but today, I feel a special need to pray for those in combat zones. They hear and see things most of us can't even imagine. They have to make split second life or death decisions. They risk

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-36919825072726581342010-01-04T05:57:00.000-08:002010-01-04T06:00:48.221-08:00

Hi all,Thanks for your tips, suggestions and thoughts on the whole issue of school. It's been helpful. I will continue to pray about it and see where God leads.Today, I am praying specifically for fast, forward movement of our adoption file / dossier. I am asking God to protect every single piece of paper and to guide it all through the system. I am so thankful for the fast forward movement

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-88646199117742724172010-01-02T08:26:00.001-08:002010-01-02T08:30:23.267-08:00

I would like to get your thoughts about school. As I see it the options are:public/neighborhood schoolcharter (tuition free public school, but smaller)homeschoolingprivate (Christian) school??are there other options? Those are the ones that come to my mind. I can see pros and cons to each of the above scenarios. Tell me what you've done or considered and why. How did you make your decision?

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-82595839332831127412010-01-01T07:00:00.000-08:002010-01-01T07:00:00.644-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-45539027502808200842009-12-24T17:07:00.000-08:002009-12-26T08:21:48.478-08:00

Not too long ago, I happened to catch an episode of a show that I don’t watch very often. It’s a sit-com. And in this episode the youngish, rich, good looking, ladies man tries to get the girl who happens to be a single mom of a young baby. The bachelor tries to act mature and that he’s up for fatherhood as he’s pursuing the single mom, and yet, in one scene, the mom can hear him on the baby

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-24543035629114992162009-12-23T21:00:00.000-08:002009-12-23T21:00:06.226-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-10300495023235477282009-12-22T18:22:00.000-08:002009-12-22T18:24:44.735-08:00

You must read this post by Angela.I have this Nativity set....and when ever I set it up, I wonder about all the players.I do have Stabby McGee too.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-13431936829471541982009-12-19T08:13:00.001-08:002009-12-19T08:16:01.169-08:00

Here's a link that outlines the current Haitian adoption process-the steps on that side, after dossier prep/submission. It does not mention the new step where parents have to go and sign the notebook at the tribunal. My understanding is that step needs to take place before the MOI step. And MOI is no longer called that-it has more letters/a bigger name. Just thought I'd pass it along.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-68762330157711059102009-12-16T19:45:00.000-08:002009-12-16T19:47:21.730-08:00

Read this story about medical care in Haiti.And then go here, and donate to the raffle (great prizes) to help Heartline Haiti buy an ambulance for their women's prenatal program. Seriously, go, right now. For the price of a cup of coffee, you can make a difference. Save lives.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-91318609292482353162009-12-11T09:03:00.000-08:002009-12-11T09:03:00.761-08:00

Nanny Lourdesmoulla (Lood Mia) with LukesonDarwing (seated) and Guerwyns Angela holding Darwing Lukeson Dave opening birthday presents from home Lukeson Sebastian DaveSebastian Lukeson Jamesly Renato

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-7857379314138918262009-12-10T12:16:00.000-08:002009-12-10T12:18:39.121-08:00

that I love, love, love all the children at Three Angels?I was just scanning my blog, and seeing the photos I've posted from the last trip, and I just wanted to say that I love love LOVE them all.:-)I miss them and wish I was there.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-52923242641965165362009-12-10T08:52:00.000-08:002009-12-10T08:52:00.080-08:00

Me, Steeve & Bob. JB was sleeping when we arrived. Julie Kethia Kervens Amy and Dave SebastianRenatoReece and Bob Jean Baptiste Jean Baptiste

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-3260957064012063672009-12-09T21:30:00.000-08:002009-12-09T21:33:29.839-08:00

One of the gals doing the half marathon to raise funds for Heartline to buy an ambulance/vehicle is hosting a very big fundraising raffle.Read about The Heartline Runners hereRead about the raffle hereCheck it out-awesome prizes and a GREAT cause.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-23093147018041497652009-12-09T15:01:00.000-08:002009-12-09T15:01:05.323-08:00

A great blog post by another mom adopting from Haiti, her efforts to explain a little of why the process takes so long. I think she said it very well. {RAGE against the MINIVAN}: explaining Haiti

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-79393493336435478072009-12-09T08:46:00.000-08:002009-12-09T08:46:00.392-08:00

Kervens Bethany Elmise Jean Baptiste Naitille JulieIsaiah Daniel Ellie Kethia Rebecca

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-59331412290637708722009-12-08T08:35:00.000-08:002009-12-08T08:35:00.078-08:00

Armon and Elmise Nicot and Matu Nicot and Matu Rebecca and Kervens Kervens and Rebecca Steeve and Jean BaptisteJonathon and Daniel Nicot and Matu Armon and ElmiseKervens and Rebecca

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-29512335948728646842009-12-07T08:21:00.000-08:002009-12-07T08:21:00.232-08:00

Lourdesmoulla (Lood-mia) doing Mallory's hair Isaiah DanielIsaiah DanielRebeccaRebecca RebeccaSarah Isaiah DanielRebecca and Kervens Lukeson

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-24008969938975482582009-12-06T08:14:00.000-08:002009-12-06T09:23:56.802-08:00

Sebastian and Renato Sebastian ArmonRebecca and Jean Baptiste Kervens Sarah Isaiah Daniel RenatoKethia Julie

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-34563856585615138152009-12-06T08:07:00.001-08:002009-12-06T09:22:17.787-08:00

Elmise Stephania Naitile Bethany Ellie Elmise

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-45582702366369648082009-12-06T07:46:00.001-08:002009-12-06T09:21:06.317-08:00

Nicot Jonathon Reece Daniel Kervens

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-32579304128020034802009-12-03T21:59:00.000-08:002009-12-03T22:05:37.895-08:00

If you need Christmas gift ideas, check out this link. An excerpt from the website:A Simple SystemUnique Scentsy warmers use a low-watt bulb to melt the specially formulated wax slowly, maximizing the fragrance time of the Scentsy Bar or Scentsy Brick. With no flame, soot or wick, the Scentsy system is a safe way to enjoy more than 80 Scentsy fragrances.How to use a Scentsy WarmerPlug it in. Turn

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-39555609665145522912009-12-01T20:29:00.000-08:002010-08-08T12:25:43.630-07:00

Read this, then come back. Go on, I'll wait. :-) This is something I have been thinking about for some time now....and praying about how to do this. How do I teach the boys that we (mama and papa) are different from the rest of the very nice people out there? It's a balance, because I don't want to scare them (with the reality that some people are not safe) too much, and yet, reality is what

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-79949965128407113302009-11-30T07:00:00.000-08:002009-11-30T07:00:03.383-08:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-16875588500137319262009-11-28T17:53:00.000-08:002009-11-28T17:54:18.512-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-18620906551657365112009-11-25T17:05:00.000-08:002009-11-25T17:08:25.232-08:00

my family.time together as a family, the four of us.being able to travel to Haiti.my friends.my home.my job.my life.my health.forgiveness.love.laughter.and oh so much more.What are you thankful for?

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-52757107409885149112009-11-24T17:19:00.000-08:002009-11-24T17:22:10.865-08:00

Today was fun.Team went to the market (grocery store) got some snacks and goodies. Finished up some projects, including more cleaning.Took pictures of the kids-FUN!The group got to work on some crafts, and planning for a Thanksgiving skit/show that the children are going to put on.Watched part of The Incredibles with the big kids (downstairs).Had dinner with the boys at the guest house and hung

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-76376217524109865952009-11-23T16:01:00.000-08:002009-11-23T16:09:50.659-08:00

Today we got a lot of work done.Painting.Cleaning.Building.Loving on the kids.Playing with the kids.Had the best dinner ever at the guest house. There have been a lot of changes at the O since I've gotten involved. I like what I see. The children at Three Angels Children's Relief are LOVED. God is great.Let's see, some random child updates:Dave can recognize numbers and say most of his

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-80902955720356180382009-11-22T15:26:00.000-08:002009-11-22T15:37:21.750-08:00

We went to church. The whole team, and the boys. Two people fell asleep in church. One was under the age of four. And one was not. :-) And he was asleep, asleep, not just nodding off. As in, someone tried to wake him a few times, and he did not respond. A picture was taken of said adult, however, it has since been deleted, due to an extreme amount of "trash talking" by the photographer.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-50513971254216495562009-11-21T16:35:00.000-08:002009-11-21T16:47:52.800-08:00

That's the best way I can describe it. This feeling is odd to me, because this sort of travel is/was so out of my comfort zone, prior to that first trip in July of 2008. Hard to believe I can feel comfortable and at home, like I belong here, some place so very different from my home. I attribute most of this to God. His peace-the kind that surpasses all understanding....the prayers of His people.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-83772031884157252262009-11-21T05:00:00.000-08:002009-11-21T05:02:30.579-08:00

We are O-U-T!!!!! Of IBESR O-U-T!!!!! Glory Hallelujah, Good God Almighty!!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-43157219127462550802009-11-19T17:07:00.000-08:002009-11-19T17:10:38.286-08:00

God is great. That's all I really have time for. We finally made it to Haiti. It's been very interesting. The boys are GREAT. All of the kids are....some of them have really grown! My how time flies.Thanks for your prayers, please continue to pray as you feel led. We are scheduled to go with another family tomorrow to sign papers that are with the new step....in the morning. Have had lots

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-64974203834958485222009-11-19T05:07:00.001-08:002009-11-19T05:07:22.448-08:00

After traveling all day yesterday and then sleeping hard and fast for a few (about 4) hours, we got up early to hurry up and wait. I'm not going to go into great detail, but - am feeling some opposition. Irritations, inconveniences and delays. Currently we have been on the plane for an hour, not in the air. :-( Something about computer down, that has to do with approving flight plans.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-81967818560006531912009-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:002009-11-18T07:00:02.259-08:00

Happy Birthday to my man. I'm so thankful that we are together. You are a great husband, my best friend, a wonderful provider and a super dad. I'm thankful to God and you for keeping us together all these years. We've been through some stuff, eh? You rock. Happy Birthday to my hubby. I love you.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-4394380832435626732009-11-17T11:00:00.000-08:002009-11-17T11:00:01.646-08:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-5167372223232435162009-11-17T06:59:00.000-08:002009-11-17T06:59:00.289-08:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-80468520964763837252009-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:002009-11-16T07:00:01.992-08:00

Giggle Giggle Giggle!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-28248585600878525392009-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:002009-11-15T07:00:03.932-08:00

I prayed for these children, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. 1 Samuel 1:27A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-29669818975083225022009-11-14T07:19:00.000-08:002009-11-14T07:19:00.141-08:00

Dear Lord, Thank you for choosing me to play a role in this little boy's life. Protect him, comfort him, reveal Your love to him. Thank you for keeping him safe and the loving care he has gotten. I pray for your continued blessing and protection on him. I pray for his heart and for his spirit. Lord, he's been through so much in his short life. I pray for him. Let him know mama and papa are

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-866196598565153652009-11-13T07:04:00.000-08:002009-11-13T18:42:31.781-08:00

Dear Lord,I am so grateful for the gift of this amazing little boy. Thank you for choosing me to be his mama. I pray for your protection and blessing on his sweet little heart and his gentle spirit. I thank you for the loving care and safety he has experienced so far in life, and I pray that You continue keeping Your hand on him. I'm awed and honored to play a role in the story You are writing.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-27000672901503807402009-11-11T18:35:00.000-08:002009-11-11T18:58:08.151-08:00

Please join me in prayer: For the team traveling, the children and the staff of the orphanage and the guest house. For all the much needed supplies to get there. For all the last minute details to come together. For the boys hearts. For the project and work that is planned. For the court meeting/signing of papers/new step in the adoption process to be accomplished. For fast, forward

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-11342531596939560002009-11-07T08:23:00.000-08:002009-11-07T08:25:26.341-08:00

I asked God to take my pain away. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up. I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary. I asked God to grant me

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-6049769426819317342009-10-28T20:38:00.000-07:002009-10-28T20:55:41.652-07:00

I just rec'd notification that we have an appointment scheduled during our planned November trip for the newly added step of signing papers that confirm we want to adopt the boys in front of a judge/justice of the peace. Thankful that we can get it done on this trip. Praying we get it done on this trip.We are still fund-raising....God is so good. So gracious. Such an amazing provider. It's

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-54357092192851307432009-10-23T14:23:00.000-07:002009-10-23T15:15:24.204-07:00

Today I went to the post office.Not my favorite errand.Had to wait in line. Big surprise. Or not. You decide.Distracted. Tired. Want to get home and relax. Been on the go A LOT lately. Needing some down time. Badly.Thinking about what else I needed to do, and what could possibly wait. (I mean to say that while my body was at the post office, my mind was most definitely not.)All of the

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-50172265323859919752009-10-16T18:45:00.001-07:002009-10-16T18:45:47.821-07:00

Dear Lord,I thank you for the gift of this day. I also thank you for the gift and blessing of family. Right now, I want to lift up Steeve to you. Thank you for this little boy with the big heart. I ask that you bless him, protect him and heal him from any and all losses that he's had in his young life. Lord, reveal. Yourself to him, surround him with your love, your Truth and your protection.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-22408986256832181372009-10-12T20:05:00.000-07:002009-10-12T20:29:35.101-07:00

It occurred to me recently that I often post and/or request prayer with problems and needs. I've been working on that-being more thankful and aware of my blessings. I am blessed and I know it. Most of the time, I know it.My friend Stephanie's post encouraged me and reminded me of my desire to be more thankful and encouraging in my daily life. Her post also served as a reminder for me to

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-52113883704231375572009-10-08T23:02:00.000-07:002009-10-08T23:02:01.946-07:00

Storing Up Treasures: The Rockstar's Need YOUAn opportunity to be a part of something bigger than yourself.Help if you can, however you can.Peace,Lena

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-64672656843781417942009-10-07T20:12:00.000-07:002009-10-07T20:25:56.029-07:00

We are gearing up for a BIG garage sale to raise funds for some of our adoption expenses this weekend. When I say BIG, I mean BIG. You would not believe what we have been given to sell.....it is incredible. These pictures are from a few days ago, and we have gotten more donations since I took the pics. A lot more. I will take a picture once we get it all spread out on the weekend. We haven't

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-49874548707869879982009-10-06T21:22:00.000-07:002009-10-06T21:24:27.259-07:00

Family Needed

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-35659686977058856772009-10-03T15:47:00.001-07:002009-10-03T15:58:13.158-07:00

Praising God for what he's doing for the children of Haiti via the "hands and feet" of Christ. Check this out: Tara Livesay A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.Today, we are T-minus 46 days from our planned arrival in Haiti with the Parkway Christian Church team. Not that I am counting or anything. Not that I am excited or anything. Tonight, we are have a BBQ at our house with the team members traveling (maybe

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-56295067747675647402009-09-30T20:47:00.000-07:002009-09-30T20:51:24.358-07:00

:-) Lest you all think I have really snapped, I just wanted to post a quick "I'm alright" tonight. I am okay. I am still here. And I am still sane (well, that is relative, isn't it?) LOL.I did find out that we need to do this step, and it looks like we can do the new step the next time we are in Haiti. It sounds like we don't have to wait for our paperwork to catch up/reach a certain point

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-29307488737491347312009-09-28T18:52:00.000-07:002009-09-28T19:47:16.231-07:00

Image via WikipediaSo I've heard bits and pieces of a new step being added to the Haitian adoption process. Really?!?!The rumors have been swirling for the past month or two....The first version said that the adoptive dad had to go to court in Haiti and appear before a judge to state that he was aware of the adoption, and really wanted to adopt the child(ren). Really?!?!The second-third and

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-53140304655934351122009-09-25T19:37:00.000-07:002009-09-25T19:51:21.722-07:00

I spotted this picture on the orphanage blog....is it crazy that I can recognize my son from the side, in an instant? In. An. Instant. My heart leaped a little when I saw this picture. I recognize his profile and his sweet little head that I just wanna kiss kiss kiss. I recognize the way he is standing-his posture. His ear.His hand.His fingers. And, from a tiny tiny almost thumbnail size

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-69302455008673798562009-09-18T08:14:00.001-07:002009-09-18T08:31:11.078-07:00

Jean Baptiste here. I am soooo excited, mama just got an email that says we are in IBESR!!!! I don't have any idea what that means, but I am very excited, because mama and papa are excited. I think it has something to do with us coming to live with mama and papa. Mama is thanking God and saying forward movement is good. So I guess it is good. :-) Mama says it has been 193 days since she

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-63570059376973625012009-09-14T21:03:00.000-07:002009-09-14T21:04:38.754-07:00

Click here to read the blog post "Update" from Real Hope For Haiti Rescue Center.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-32735214928593584432009-09-13T11:06:00.000-07:002009-09-13T11:20:12.410-07:00

Taking my cue from this verse:I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!~ Isaiah 65:24We have a very specific financial need right now. Actually, more than one. God knows the details. None of them are life or death-it is after all only money. One of them has to do with our next (hoped, planned)

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-38539660164945802612009-09-12T09:01:00.000-07:002009-09-12T09:05:56.728-07:00

God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slavesto the law, so that he couldadopt us as his very own children.Galatians 4:5I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers! ~ Isaiah 65:24

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-84642638858978562972009-09-11T12:23:00.001-07:002009-09-11T12:28:25.577-07:00

Praying for all those impacted by this terrible day in our nation's history. Thanking God for all those who have served and those who are serving to defend our country and protect our freedoms-our volunteer military and their families. Remembering where I was, what I was doing, and how I felt as the tragedy of this day unfolded. Reflecting on the blessing and responsibility of being an American

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-51262460801235101642009-09-07T12:35:00.001-07:002009-09-07T12:44:07.942-07:00

Today, September 7, 2009, my baby started pre-school. (Labor day is a North American Holiday). I got some pictures from a friend who just returned from Haiti last night. (Thanks, Eric). My youngest is growing up. He's taller, and looks to be thinning out-losing baby fat, I think. He started school today and here I am, thousands of miles away. I am happy and sad. Jean Baptiste,your mama loves

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-49493681249866526462009-09-02T19:00:00.000-07:002009-09-02T19:02:42.733-07:00

Image by Themis was here via FlickrToday, I attended a conference all about adoption. The focus was on creating nurturing transitions for newborns. However, the information shared is useful for all age ranges. The keynote speaker is an author and has been working and teaching in the adoption field for decades. There was a lot of good information in her keynote address.I was moved deeply by the

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-38511901408990176712009-09-02T17:56:00.000-07:002009-09-02T18:02:32.301-07:00

I just got a note from my very smart aunt, who found out that she can donate via her employer's United Way Campaign. You can write Three Angels Children's Relief in on your contribution form.Her employer matches 75% of the amount she donates. This will vary by employer/company.Generally speaking, corporations do their United Way campaigns in the fall, so this is very timely!The U.S. contact

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-37711107452029768162009-08-28T18:43:00.000-07:002009-08-28T18:47:39.816-07:00

Image by ANVAR - RUSSIANTEXAN © via FlickrNow glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplishinfinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. Ephesians 3:20 NLT

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-52792970388254909882009-08-28T18:12:00.000-07:002009-08-28T18:14:18.746-07:00

Medika Mamba updateGod is doing big things!!!Faith in action, I LOVE it.

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-55703034113355328432009-08-25T17:47:00.000-07:002009-08-25T17:48:34.119-07:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-58181885992207547392009-08-24T22:10:00.000-07:002009-08-24T22:12:40.813-07:00

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-63939314008964282522009-08-17T21:58:00.000-07:002009-08-17T22:07:17.291-07:00

Image by cobalt123 via FlickrToday was what I call a "heavy day" at work (the hospital). Some days are like that. It's just the way it is.I had two separate people in the same day, at two different times say to me:"I am XX years old. I'm done."Both feeling hopeless and discouraged and with a whole list of illnesses and problems. Both arguing that I couldn't possibly understand, and that "I have a

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-82333770576290021332009-08-15T18:54:00.000-07:002009-08-15T19:00:36.036-07:00

Steeve Jean BaptisteThanks, Angela!!!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-12285217507841228852009-08-06T15:35:00.000-07:002009-08-06T15:36:50.286-07:00

I've been think about this for a while. There's no big secret or drama or anything like that going on. Just feeling like I want a better handle on who has access to my online diary, essentially. email me if you'd like to still follow. (don't do it via comments, unless you don't have my email) as I'm pretty sure I will need your email to allow you to follow.Thanks!

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1139439009542800845.post-58896512770760451442009-07-30T08:07:00.000-07:002009-07-30T08:19:16.015-07:00

I like the full version of this prayer:God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can;and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things

Lena Just Lenanoreply@blogger.com1