The Wilkens Family

Mason's 4th Birthday!

2011-08-28T15:55:00.012-05:00

Seriously!? Is it even possible that Mason is now 4? He is a fun, energetic, imaginative, loving and very funny kid all in one perfectly cute tiny little package! We celebrated by having a SUPER-HERO birthday party!

Cupcake Stand Treat Bags!
SuPeR-FaMiLy Happy 4th Birthday! Super-Hero Games Super-Sis Make A Wish! Thank you, Lord, for making us a FAMILY!

Easter 2011

2011-08-24T13:11:00.017-05:00

Taegan's 1st Birthday

2011-08-24T12:53:00.014-05:00

Taegan turned 1 on March 5th. We celebrated with a "Sweet-Shoppe" themed party. I still can't believe how fast that first year went!

Trust the Lord with all your heart

Proverbs 3:5

Christmas 2010 ~ Daddy's Side

2011-01-10T13:54:00.014-06:00

Taegan, Mommy, Mason & Cousin Brynn

Christmas Cousins!

Mason's 1st gift of the season!

Taegan's 1st Christmas

My Christmas Babies!

Roller Coaster!

November 2010

2011-01-10T13:37:00.010-06:00

Taegan's 1st Thanksgiving

Gettin' ready for Christmas!

What a crack up!

Bedtime story with Daddy

Taegan @ 8 months

Halloween 2010

2010-11-07T13:54:00.015-06:00

We celebrated Halloween not once but 3 times this year. Mason had a class party at Preschool, we attended the Halloween Parade in Council Grove on October 30th and then went trick-or-treating on Halloween.
Although Halloween is just a few days behind us, Mason has already started talking Christmas and Santa Claus! His wish list is about a mile long and includes Toy Story and Buzz Lightyear anything and everything!

Taegan is now 8 months old. She literally started crawling, getting her first tooth and pulling herself up all within the last few days! She has a sweet and silly personality. She loves to watch her brother play and he can make her laugh like nobody else!

Taegan- 7 MonthsBlondes have more fun!

Mason's 1st Pumpkin Patch

Taegan's 1st Pumpkin Patch too!

Visit to the Farm, Oct 2010

Mason LOVES "working" on the Farm
Making treat cups for school party
Preschool Halloween Party

Nana feeding Taegan
Mommy & Daddy as Square Dancers!
Ready for the parade in CG
Mason and Cousin Dawson

One Cool Cat!
Ready for "treats only please"!

Melt-down #1

Melt-down #2 With the Cogswells
An 80's Jane Fonda!

Matt accidentially gave Mason these, thinking they were his jeans!

They are Taegan's size 6 month jeans!

Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.

Psalm 103:2 NLT

Fall 2010

2010-10-04T13:51:00.082-05:00

Mason is pretty well settled into the routine at Preschool. In September he attended a soccer clinic for 3 and 4 year olds. He really seemed to enjoy it and was the only child on the field that was running and kicking the ball yelling out "Hey Mommy, hey Daddy look at me. Hey Mommy, take a picture of me"!! What a hoot!

Mason has been able to recognize all his letters and numbers for a few months now, and sings the ABC song several times a day. He is still into Dinosaurs and new favorites include playing with his toy cars. At night, he still sleeps with the same teddy bear and blankie. He hasn't sucked his thumb in several months. Getting him to stop sucking his thumb was WAY easier than we had imagined....actually a funny story because he literally kicked that habit in a matter of hours!

Our family went on vacation in September. We spent a week in Orlando watching Daddy play softball and did the Disney thing! Mason LOVED it. He did great on the airplane and loved the Disney parks. His absolute favorite ride was the "buzz buzz" ride (Buzz Lightyear) at Magic Kingdom. We were also able to spend a few hours at Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. We hope we can go back as a family again!

Taegan will be 7 months old tomorrow...where has the time gone! She can sit up some on her own, but she prefers to be on her tummy. For several weeks now we have been thinking she is going to crawl at any moment. She gets up on all 4's and rocks, but then goes back to her tummy and pretty much "army crawls" to where she wants to go. She is a good baby, sleeps great and hardly ever fusses. No teeth yet! We feel her eye movements have improved some over the last few months. We took her to see a Pediatric Ophthalmologist at Children's Mercy at the end of August, just to be reassured by a 2nd opinion. The Dr. she has classic Congenital Motor Nystagmus. He felt it to be mild compared to some of the other cases he has seen and does not have any reason to believe that she will be visually impaired as a result of this. In just these past few days she has been saying "Ma-Ma-Ma"!

The following are pictures from our vacation, family pictures that were taken mid June and just some other random photos to enjoy!

"I an astronaut"

Taegan at 6 months old

Thanks for the boots Nana!

"I a super-hero"

Pure Genius...stashing toys in his underwear!

Reading to Sissy

Headin' to soccer

Soccer Clinic

Airplane ride...yes, that is the safety manual!

Ready for our first day at Magic Kingdom

Taegan's 1st swim!

At Magic Kingdom...

Diva!

Ready for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween!

Hangin' out at Minnie's house!

Feeding the duck at Animal Kingdom

DUDE!

At Joe's Crab Shack...Too Cute To Be Crabby!

"Buzz Buzz"

Mason's favorite ride

Swiss Family Robinson Tree House

Sharing a cool treat with Daddy!

One of Taegan's favorite toys!

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!

Baby's got her blue jeans on....

Mason LOVED the T-Rex Cafe!

Monkey See, Monkey Do!

Mommy's new decor....TOYS EVERYWHERE!

Singing the ABC's to Sissy

Family Pictures June 2010

One of our favorites!

Mommy's two favorite boys!

My child, listen and be wise: Keep your heart on the right course.

~ Proverbs 23:19, NLT

School Days!

2010-09-01T14:35:00.015-05:00

This marks Mason's 2nd week of Preschool...but he will tell you "I go to Kindergarten"! There are 12 kiddos total in his class and we ended up sending him to a 3 day a week program, for 2 1/2 hours each day. He has the routine down pat already. On the way there I will ask him what the rules are and he will say "take turns, share, listen and obey". As soon as he walks into class he hangs up his cutie little monkey backpack, washes his hands, finds his name tag and then sits on the rug to get ready for circle time.

He is going through a phase of loving anything DINOSAUR. We also find him dressing up like an ASTRONAUT quite a bit....well it's a make shift outfit consisting of my motorcycle helmet, 2 batting gloves and a backpack. He is super cute and very imaginative! Another thing that Mason has started doing of is singing to the radio...which is super fun. You should hear him belt out Enrique's "Baby I Like It".

Taegan will be 6 months old this coming Saturday and is growing like crazy. She LOVES her big brother and he is so good to her. He still can't stand to see her upset and entertains her with games of "tickle-tickle" and "peek-a-boo". Its fun to watch him interact with her and he can really get her on a roll with some good belly laughs!

I just realized I never posted our family pictures! So, watch for another post coming soon!

Playing Drums!

Hangin' with DaddyPapa Jim & Mason
Mason- July 2010
Mason & Taegan
Making Mommy Laugh!
Mason's 1st day of Preschool

Making Taegan Laugh!
Playing with Dinosaurs
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31, NLT

Our Baby Boy Is 3...

2010-07-10T13:57:00.004-05:00

The birthday boy with Mommy and Daddy Taegan at 4 months
The day of Mason's 3rd bday party

Mason & Papa eatin' donuts

Sportin' his spiked hair-do

Mason at swim lessons

Father's Day 2010

Exhausted after family pics...

Reading a book to "sissy"

Taegan at 3 months

Silly boy found Mommy's glasses

Mason turned 3 on July 5th, and Taegan hit the 4 month mark. Both kids are doing great. At their last check Mason was 31# and Taegan was 13#. Mason did end up having a root canal and he tolerated it like a champ!

Mason just completed his first set of swim lessons, he looked forward to "going to the beach" each day for 2 weeks of lessons. He will be going to Preschool this Fall, just 2 days a week for a couple of hours each day.
We took family pictures a few weeks ago, but they aren't in yet....so check back later for them! For now I will leave you with some recent pictures from the summer.

May Flowers!

2010-05-24T17:55:00.016-05:00

Mowing with Daddy

Being my silly self!
The fam
Mason loving on his "sissy"
The fam on Mother's Day
Mother's Day 2010
Cutie, cute, cute!
Taegan @ 11 weeks old
Papa, Mason & Taegan
Eating Ice Cream Cone Cake
"Lifting Weights"
Mason will be turning 3 in less than 2 months! I can hardly believe it. In just the last week or so, Mason has stopped sucking his thumb, had his first "big boy poop" in the toilet and is consistently asking to go "potty on the toilet." He is a very energetic and funny boy, he cracks us up on a daily basis. A few weeks ago I was at the drive thru at Starbucks ordering a coffee and Mason was in the backseat shouting out his order for a "cheeseburger and french fries!"

He loves mowing with Daddy, going to softball and basketball games, watching movies, playing with tinker toys & legos and of course anything sports related. He is also a WONDERFUL big brother. He gives Taegan lots of kisses and attention each day. He will even share his treasured blankie and bear with her....SO SWEET! He is very excited about going to preschool this fall. Anytime we mention preschool he is quick to tell us "Ya, I gotta take turns, share and potty in the toilet"! Mason did have a "tooth injury" earlier this month, so we will be following up with a pediodontist over the next few months. We are praying he doesn't lose any teeth or have to go through a root canal. He goes back in June, so we will know more then.

The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses them with peace.
Psalms 29:11

April 2010

2010-04-11T18:46:00.012-05:00

Helping Daddy feed Taegan

Just being silly!
Easter 2010
Silly Monkey
Taegan @ 4 weeks old
Big Brother & Little Sister

Bathtime!

Mommy & Taegan

Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act

Psalm 37:7

March Thankfulness!

2010-03-20T11:49:00.010-05:00

We have so much to be thankful for this month! On March 5th Taegan Kae arrived at 12:44 pm. She weighed 6# 12 oz and was 19 1/2" long. She is healthy, beautiful and doing great! On March 9th we celebrated the 2nd anniversary of Mason's "Gotcha Day"!

As of today, Taegan is 15 days old, we are slowly getting settled into somewhat of a routine. Mason has been a great big brother. He loves to "help" burp her and is giving her a kiss on the head everytime I turn around. Our family feels very blessed and our hearts are full of joy and thankfulness!

KU Tutu from Nana & Papa

Silly Monkey Precious

This is the day the Lord has made.

We will rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24

Feb. Is Finally Here!

2010-02-16T06:58:00.012-06:00

This month is plugging away, just as I'd hoped it would. We have all managed to end up sick this month. Matt had his turn first, then Mason and then me. I am FINALLY feeling human once again. I am due pretty much anytime. Today marks 38 wks and 3 days! I actually have an appointment later this morning and will hopefully be dilated or at least a little more thinned out! So, be watching for my next update which will feature pictures of Mason and his new baby sister!

Rockin' Out to Alvin & The Chipmunks

Holding "baby Taegan"...aka... "baby Jesus"Playing in the snow with Daddy
Naptime....
Cheezin' It
Fun In The Tub

Hangin' with Cousin Dawson
Mommy's Belly at 36 wks
Baby Shower....belly at 37 wks & 5 days
For we live by believing and not by seeing
~ 2 Cor. 5:7, NLT

Holidays 2009

2010-01-07T05:03:00.022-06:00

So, here I am again, late with an update! Mason is now 2 1/2 years old and I can hardly believe it. He is FULL of life and LOTS of energy. He pretty much repeats everything you say and as of today is on day #9 of potty training! The Holidays were nice and pretty low key this year. We have had LOTS of cold weather and snow, which caused us to have a late Christmas on my side. We traveled in November to celebrate an early Thanksgiving/Christmas on Matt's side.

The New Year has arrived and we are certainly looking forward to it. I will be 33 weeks along on Saturday. We are looking forward to Taegan's arrival next month! May you have a blessed 2010!

Christmas 2009

Playin' the fishin' game w/ Daddy

Snuggle time w/ Daddy and Gracie
By far one of his favorite gifts...

Mommy at 32 wks

Rockin out to the Alvin & The Chipmunks Soundtrack

Do you think there will be any issues w/ the new arrival??

Official "Big Boy" Haircut

Yes, "Bear" and "Thumb" are still his companions...

Mason's "Big Boy" bed we had made for him

Mason's Thanksgiving 2009 Art

Baby Love...27 wks

More snuggle time...

Mason & Cousin Dawson at Thanksgiving

Healy Holiday Pic's

Silly Monkey...

Helping Daddy Drywall

Battle O' The Belly's (Dad and Me...27 wks)

Thank God for this gift, too wonderful for words!

2 Corinthians 9:15

Fall Update 2009...

2009-11-04T12:55:00.018-06:00

Sorry to have missed the October post. We will make up for it by posting lots of pictures! Today we are celebrating Daddy's 32nd Birthday! Mason and I made a Strawberry Pop Cake for him that we will enjoy this evening. As for other celebrations....

We will be celebrating an early Thanksgiving/Christmas next week on the Wilkens side. Granny and Papa are looking forward to a house full of company and having holidays at "The Farm" this year. Now, after several days of having 10 grandkids (4 of which are under 2 1/2 yrs.) we will see if they volunteer again next year (keeping in mind they will be up to 12 grandkids by then)!

We found out on October 16th that Mason is going to have a little sister! Mason and Daddy were just certain it was a boy (or according to Mason, a "brother")! I had a "gut" feeling from the beginning that it would be a little girl. Her expected date of arrival is Feb 27th, 2009 (up to 2 weeks early is fine w/ Mommy)! We are planning to name her Taegan Kae.

Mason is growing into quite the little man. He is very busy and is literally talking more and more each day. His favorite play activities are play dough (or "dough play" as he calls it), anything that involves a ball or bat and jumping on his mini trampoline. Movies he could watch over and over are Shrek, The Bee Movie, Madagascar and Alvin & The Chipmunk's (we pretty much have these memorized line for line)!

Playing Poker with the boys...

Baby Bump at 16 weeks

Mason at the farm- Sept 2009 Mason and Daddy at the farm
Cuteness!
Mason and his "Buddy" Conner
Baby Bump at 20 weeks
Mason relaxing in the baby papasan chair
Baby Bump on sono day...21 wks
Mason- Oct 2009
Little genius...figuring out how to carry several balls at once!
Halloween 2009

Happy 32nd Birthday Matt!

Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.
~ Luke 6:38, NLT

Summer 2009

2009-09-07T12:09:00.064-05:00

Summer is winding down and I have been way behind on posts, so I thought I would share a bunch of pictures from Summer 2009 as a recap. A couple of quick updates: *We have a due date of Feb 27th, I am 15 wks and 2 days along. *Our good friends, the Cogswell's, will be leaving in just 2 wks to travel to Taiwan to bring home their daughter Chloe. *The Wilkens side of the family will be getting not just 1, but 2 new grandkids in 2010. No, not twins!! Our little one in Feb. and Lee and Ande are expecting again in April.

What we caught Mason doing just last night...

Don't worry, it's a totally new and unused potty!

Labor Day Weekend 2009

Mason and Cousin D at the Lake

Cute lil' monkey backpack

Labor Day Weekend at Papa & Nana's

"Bear" enjoyed the weekend too...

Isn't this picture a scream!!??

A day at Lakeside August 2009

At home this summer...

Trip to Colorado- Summer 2009

Watching Daddy at Nationals in Colorado Springs

Mason and Daddy- Seven Falls

Visit to the North Pole

Mason's 2nd birthday!

Mason and Papa Jim
Mason and Granny Marletta

4th of July...Mason and Cousin D

Lake June 2009

Of course, we couldn't leave "Bear" behind

Going "fast" in Papa Jim's boat...

Nana with her grandsons!

Behold, children are a heritage of the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.

Psalm 127:3

Desperately Due For An Update!!

2009-08-05T16:54:00.014-05:00

I am sooo far behind and have sooo many pictures to share. This post will be brief, but I will share more when I have a little more time. Mason turned "2" on July 5th and we celebrated the day at home with family and friends! At his 2 year check up he weighed 27 1/2# and was 33 1/2" tall. He's just a little guy but full of BIG energy and a HUGE personality.

Speaking of "Due" we have a little family announcement. I am completely unexpectedly EXPECTING!! It didn't take long for the hormones to kick in and get the nausea fired up....so that is my excuse for the lack of updates. I have been "blessed" with pretty much 24/7 nausea and shear exhaustion. We are still a little shocked, thankful and excited. Mason is going to be a big brother!!

A sneak peek at our Family/Mason's 2 Year pictures...

Photography by Callie MacDonald/Chickenhead Studios

Mason hangin' at his favorite spot....the ballfield!

Mason sportin' his swimming gear!

Like father, like son....

You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done.
~ Psalm 92:4, NLT

Father's Day Weekend & Misc Photos

2009-06-21T20:47:00.017-05:00

Horrible pic of Mommy, but cute one of Mason

After a VERY long afternoon at the pool...

Playin' in the pool at home...

Carrying softballs to the pool...

Watching the W-Day parade with D

Mason and Cousin D playing in Papa Jim's boat

Mason and Papa Jim

Mason and Daddy- Father's Day 2009

Headin' To Church....

Mason LOVES salsa!

Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day.
~ Lamentations 3:23, NLT

Summer Fun!

2009-06-07T15:49:00.017-05:00

I am actually doing it.....a monthly post before the very last day of the month! Mason is now sleeping in a toddler bed (well, the crib with the front rail removed). He decided to start crawling out (and then back in) the crib on his own. We feared bruises and broken bones, so we had to do something different.

For the most part Mason sleeps through the night. HOWEVER, he is an early bird!! It doesn't matter how early or late this kid goes to bed....it is a miracle if we get him to sleep until 6am. He is usually awake for the first time by 4:30 am or 5 am, but we tell him "Mason, it's night-night, go back to sleep". We then hope and pray he falls back asleep until at least 6 am. His bedtime is 8 pm, but even if he's up later it has zero influence on his awake time.

Nana Jeanette and I took Mason and cousin Dawson to a Day Out With Thomas yesterday. I must say, the events of the day are still fresh in my mind. Beautiful day and thankful for the time with family. BUT, let's just put it this way..... If you were there and noticed a precious little boy using the bubble wand as a bat, throwing a FIT when he had to leave the bounce house and slide, sitting in time-out next to a tree behind the bounce house and then another time-out in one of the Johnny On The Spot's (yuck by the way) and then the grand finale.....a MAJOR breath hold under the tent while waiting on Thomas' arrival......it wasn't Mason. Ok, it might have been Mason. ;o)

Riding the train....status post breath hold

Sharing his water with the Llama....
Petting the goats....Mason LOVED the bounce house...Climbing up to go down the slide..... Big D "trying" to take charge of Mason.... Big D, Mommy and MasonMason's Thomas Hat from his Cogswell buddies Big D and Mason.... Mason and Big D ready for take off....Mason and his baseball glove....

Playing in Mommy's shoes....

Nap Time!

Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
~ Romans 12:16

So, it's been awhile....

2009-05-31T13:26:00.011-05:00

Hello! Our family is well, just busy. I am way overdue in posting an update. I somehow managed to end up with a completely bum memory card....which means all the hundreds of pictures on it (going back to Halloween) are lost. I had planned to try a recovery program to see if I could restore some of the images, BUT now I can't even find the memory card. I am so disappointed because there were alot of pictures I had planned to share...including Easter pictures. Anywho...I have a new memory card but so far only a few pictures to share.

Mason is doing super. He continues to be a very busy little boy. In Mason's eyes just about any object can be used as a "bat" to hit a "ball". Seriously, we have witnessed him holding a string cheese stick and pickle spear as he proudly says "bat". He is really picking up words and imitates EVERYTHING we do. Mason is an outdoor boy for sure, he can entertain himself for hours outside and is typically not a happy camper when it's time to go inside. He will be 23 months old on June 5th.

Our family is looking forward to the summer....ballgames, some pool time and hopefully a visit to the lake and back to the farm (and of course more projects around the house). We are already brainstorming for Mason's 2nd birthday party. We also continue to look forward to and pray for the pending adoption of our friends precious Chloe in Taiwan and the arrival of the Molleker's little Julia Grace. Another goal for summer is applying for Mason's COC. Anyone out there that has done this recently, I would appreciate any advice or tips you may have.

Swing batter, batter!Using his cheese stick as a bat...
The Cheesy Grin is still in!

Decorating cupcakes w/ Nana and Big D
Mason and Daddy at the Circus
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful" - Psalm 139:14

April Showers...and sleet...and snow!!

2009-04-05T17:04:00.013-05:00

Our family has been busy settling into our new home. Still some unpacking and organizing...and lots of updating to do. Mason has adjusted just fine to his new room. We can't wait for warmer weather to arrive so we can get outside and enjoy our HUGE yard!

Mason has started saying several new words and still uses his basic signs. He said "NO" for the first time last week. I am actually surprised it wasn't one of his first words. He is obsessed with baseballs, basketballs and bats...makes his Daddy so proud!

Obviously the blog is still public, making it private is just one of the many tasks on my "to do list". I am keeping this short- I have a 21 month old in my lap that has super busy hands! Have a Happy Easter!

The Cheesy Grin...
This grin is very popular these days...
here it is again....

Still a thumb sucker...a battle I am dreading!

Mason loves to play "hide"!
Mr. Stinky Pants

Since God chose you to be the holy people whom He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
~ Colossians 3:12

Gotcha Day!

2009-03-09T18:40:00.015-05:00

One year ago today...

We were sleep deprived, anxious, excited, and nervous as we flew into Guatemala City. The day was finally here! We met our son for the very first time. Looking back, all the tears, prayers, panic attacks, accidents and sleepless nights were soooo worth it. God was faithful and Mason has certainly been a blessing. It's hard to believe he has been a part of our family for a year now(physically at least, he was MY SON from the first photo I received on 07/07/07). Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.

We are moved and slowly getting settled. I am still planning to make the blog private, so if you haven't left a comment or emailed me asking for permission to view, please do so. Now, on to your Mason fix!

Learning to catch... Mason Heart's His Thumb!

Wearing Mommy's Shoes
Cheesy Grin!
Moving is hard work!
Mason and the 4C's

Yes, it's what you think. No worries, they are new!
Which one is the bigger kid??
Mason and Mommy

Blog Change!

2009-02-17T19:46:00.003-06:00

I will be making our blog private VERY soon. If you want to continue viewing the blog please leave a comment or send me an email ASAP so I can approve you. Life is too busy for a full update and new pic's...but coming soon. Thanks!

Busy Little Bees!

2009-01-26T14:51:00.016-06:00

The first month of the new year is flying by and will soon be gone! Yesterday I celebrated my 35th birthday...yes 35th...seemed pretty indifferent, but I still can't believe I am 35. Seriously, where does the time go?? The in-laws were through town on Thursday and Friday, my family was here on Saturday. On Sunday Mason and I made a road trip to KC to see Aunt Holly and the twins! We ate lunch at Jose Peppers (Yum-O) and that was about it.

Mason had his 18 month check up earlier this month. He is 32 3/4" long and 23# 5 oz. Mason is SUPER busy. He is fast, funny and can climb pretty much whatever he puts his mind to! New words/sounds recently include "Papa" and "Meow"...he doesn't say "Meow" he actually makes a meow sound like the cat. Mason continues to be quite the entertainer and is still a really good eater. We have had some "sleep" issues the past 2 weeks, which I am praying is related to his Eye Teeth coming in. There have been a couple of nights that he will wake up after 2 or 3 hours of sleep and NOT go back to sleep until the next morning. During all of this we have decided to DELETE the morning nap. Last night was the first night in over 2 weeks that Mason slept the entire night through. It was MUCH needed rest for all of us.

Our friends who are adopting from Taiwan have had a slight change in plans...they stepped forward thinking they were adopting a 2 1/2 year old girl, however another family stepped up as well and was granted permission to adopt her instead. However, as God shut one door he opened another. They have now accepted the referral for a little 8 month old girl, who is just precious. They are hoping to travel to bring her home sometime in the next 3-6 months. Once they have a blog up and running I will share the link!

Other updates:
*We are moving forward with an Orphan Ministry at Church...we have the name (HOPEFILLED) and logo so stay tuned!
*Our family is moving! We found a house that we LOVED and decided to put ours on the market on Jan 2nd. To our surprise it sold just 2 weeks later! Stay tuned for more details!!

I hope you are all well! Leave me a comment or send and email and let me know who is still out there reading and how you are doing!

This boy loves to help clean!

Mason being silly...

Horsing around with Daddy...

More playtime with Daddy...

Bedtime Snack...Popcorn!!

Playin' in Mommy's Shoes...

Mason blowing his nose...

Mason and Papa Jack

Mason and Granny

Cousin Brileigh, Aunt Ande and Mason

Mommy holding Grant

Mommy and Aunt Darl with 5 of the 10 Wilkens Grandkids!

Out...

Chloe...Praying her home! But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, be patient! For it will surely take place. It will not be late by a single day. Habakkuk 2:3

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T12:08:00.005-06:00

Our family welcomed 2009 in a pretty low key manner. Mason was sound asleep by 8:30pm. We watched a movie at home and ate pizza with a couple of friends. Nothing too exciting, which was fine by me.

Our family is already looking forward to several things in 2009. Our friends Jennifer & Jeff are expecting their 1st child in August. Our friends RD & Amy will be welcoming little Chloe from Taiwan into their family soon. We are anxious to see what this year may hold for adoptions in Guatemala. And, I am excited about being a part of a group to help start an Orphan Ministry at our church. Can't wait to see what else God may have planned for us!

May your prayers be answered and dreams come true in the coming year!

Mason and Daddy on New Year's Eve New Year's Day nap!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-27T21:23:00.016-06:00

Family Photo...Christmas 2008 Ready for a nap right after lunch...
Headin' to the pool...

Swimming with Daddy, Uncle Lee and Cousins

Playin' pool with Daddy

Brileigh, Granny & Mason

Mason in his Guatemala Soccer Jersey

Papa reading to Mason

Mason's favorite gift...not kidding!

Nana reading to Mason

Mason's new Sit & Spin! Fun, Fun!

Grandkids on Daddy's side of the family...minus the twins!

Ugly Christmas sweater contest...homemade by Mommy!

Uncle Lee won the contest...

Daddy says I am adorable...Mommy agrees.

Thank you, Lord, for the memories we have from Christmas 2008.

Happy Holidays 2008

2008-12-11T20:28:00.023-06:00

Hello! I received an email today from the Eagle's Nest with an updated photo of a little boy there that our family has been sponsoring for several months now. The photo broke my heart...he was sitting on Santa's lap with a single little tear on his right cheek. It instantly took me back to December 2007...what a difference a year makes.

December 2007-
*I was shopping like no other bringing home BAGS of baby items.
*Mason was 5 months old.
*I was a mess wondering if our case be allowed to continue after December 31, 2007??
*I was a mess, knowing Mason would not be home for Christmas.
*I was a mess, stalking adoption forums & blogs searching for any news that might be out there.
*I was a mess, checking my email every 15 seconds looking for an email from our agency with new photos and a health report.

Mason December 2007 Notice a common theme here? "MESS" was exactly what I was! Now, let's fast forward a year...

December 2008-
*Mason is upstairs, in his crib, in his room, in our home fast asleep as I write this.
*There are 3 stockings hung this year.
*Mason is 17 months old.
*Mason is running, climbing, bouncing...everywhere!
*Mason folds his little hands in prayer...which melts my heart everytime.
*Mason has started talking a little more in the past week or so...Mama, Dadda, Bye, Ball.
*I have been trying desperately to get a "good" picture to use for our Holiday cards...but this child will not sit still for more than 2 seconds (unless it's to eat, of course). I am beginning to think I may just have to snap a shot of him sleeping in some cutie Christmas PJ's instead! ;)

We have been blessed in 2008. From our family to yours...We wish you a safe and blessed holiday!

Mason Decemeber 2008

Eating with a fork like such a big boy!

Brusha, Brusha, Brusha!

Mason's first hockey game.
Shaving with Daddy...
This child LOVES to sweep!
Mason's first art project...

Nativity Set from Guatemala. Cool story. This is from a dear friend. Her husband went to Guatemala a few years ago on a mission trip. He bought this from a little boy on the streets of Guatemala. This family has passed it on to our family. What a treasure this will be for Mason as he gets older! I am so thankful to have received it, as we didn't really purchase anything in Guatemala to bring home from our pick up trip.

Mason's Nativity Set...from the same dear friends

So far (knock on wood) no Christmas Tree related accidents...

Mason texting...he is so serious!

The not so serious, but sassy Mason...

Mason, trying to help load the dishwasher.

Mason does this whenever I ask "How much does Mommy love you?"...how precious!

Thanksgiving 2008

"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

2 Corinthians 9:6-7

November News!

2008-11-15T19:40:00.009-06:00

Well, I did it...you are getting Halloween pictures before Christmas! ;) Can you believe we are already midway through November!? Mason is now 16 months old and has been home for 8 months. It doesn't seem possible...it's gone by so fast, yet at the same time it's hard to remember life without Mason.

I am in the process of reading a great book, that I would highly recommend. Note, I am NOT a reader...never really have been...rarely finish books. However, this is one I will certainly be able to finish. It's called "Fields of the Fatherless". Ever since we started our adoption process, I have felt that I wanted to do MORE. I completed an Adoption Bible Study at our church earlier this fall and I still feel that need to do MORE...I am hoping, along with some others at our church, to start an Adoption/Orphan Ministry. So, a few of us have been reading this book.

If there are any viewers out there that have experience with starting such a Ministry, I would love to hear from you! Also, if any of you are familiar with any domestic adoption programs that specialize in or have a high percentage of Latino/Hispanic adoptions, please let me know!

I hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving!

A Glimpse of October!

2008-10-30T22:20:00.014-05:00

Tomorrow is Halloween and we are super excited about getting Mason dressed up. His costume is actually Daddy's idea, that he came up with last year while we were waiting to bring Mason home. I will take plenty of pictures tomorrow and will try to get the Halloween pictures posted before Christmas! :)

We completed our "Re-Adoption" earlier in this month. The court hearing itself was quick and painless....just more paperwork and $$ to get us there. I believe we are down to one last step...hopefully. At some point we will need to apply for a COC (Certificate of Citizenship) through the USCIS office. What does this involve? You guessed it....more paperwork and $$! Once the application has been received and reviewed we will be issued one last appointment at our local USCIS office.

Going back to September for a quick moment....
Mason had an out-patient surgical procedure, which we are glad is behind us ( I am sure he is too)! Everything went fine and we were home later that same morning. Prior to this hospitalization, Mason made his first trip to the ER! Mason and Gracie (one of our cats) had a disagreement. Let's just say, Gracie may have won the battle but she lost the war! Gracie now has a new home. She is staying with some friends of ours until Mason is a little older. This time Gracie got Mason right between the eyes! An ER trip, steri-strips, second skin and round of Augmentin later...Mason has healed just fine. (*Note: the OP surgery had nothing to do with the cat incident).

Mason is a happy, busy and entertaining little boy. He has most recently learned to spin in circles, shake his head "no" and stand on top of the coffee table! There isn't a day that goes by that we don't give thanks to God for the gift we have received in knowing this child as our son. At his 15 month checkup he weighed 22#.

Now what you really came for...PICTURES!!

Gracie's Aftermath: Round 2

Reading a story before surgery...

Mason post anesthesia...
Eat your heart out Tom Cruise!

Just another day in the life of Mason...

Daddy, Mason and Cousin Brileigh...

Mason and Brileigh

Mason's first pumpkin...

This was all Daddy's idea...

First Family Vacation!

2008-09-15T15:33:00.011-05:00

Well, it appears I have officially gone from weekly updates to monthly ones! We had our first family vacation this past week. Mason was a little trooper as we drove nearly 1400 miles round trip starting in our home state through Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and our destination...Kentucky. Daddy played in the Men's Class C Softball World Series Tournament. We won't talk about how his team placed! It was nice to get away, my parents traveled with us, so they got some extra time with Mason and their favorite daughter (me)! :)

Things are moving along with Mason's readoption. We met w/ an attorney to sign papers to file a petition and our final hearing date as been set for October. We also FINALLY have a SSN for this child! Which means Mason is officially a member of the "Shiny Apple Club" with his very own savings account!

Family news! The Wilkens family has welcomed 2 new members of the family....McKinley Jane and Grant Alan made their way into the world about two months early on Sept 5th. Mom and babies are doing well. The babies will be in the NICU for a while yet. Check out their pics @ http://www.mckinleygrant.blogspot.com/ . This 2 little ones make the grandkid count for Papa and Granny Wilkens 10!! 4 of these joined the family just this year....in fact, about 6 months from each other. Christmas will be WILD this year, I am certain.

My "new" pictures are becoming hard to come by! Mason is ON THE MOVE, CONSTANTLY! I bet I take and delete at least 25 pictures just to get 1 so-so picture of him! :)

How you see Mason these days...with a bat in one hand!

Mason over Labor Day weekend

Mason throwing a fit

Mason throwing another fit (same day...different outfit)

Papa Jim asleep on the road (he will flip when he sees this)!!

Mason & Mommy at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY

Family Photo

Just this morning...we never used this swing once Mason got home, but Daddy decided to put him in it this morning just for fun. He loved it!

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us." 1 John 5:14

August Update...

2008-08-24T19:00:00.009-05:00

Well, it has certainly been a few weeks! The summer is just flying by and Mason is growing and changing every day. It is literally everyday that he learns something new. As soon as Mason arrived home, I started trying to teach him some basic signs. Fortunately our daycare provider is on the same page. They aren't perfect signs, but Mason can now sign "Please" (which occasionally looks like he is rocking out on air guitar), "More" (not to be confused with clapping), "Eat" (which he actually looks like he is biting his hand or forearm), "Thank You" (which I have yet to see, but daycare has witnessed it) and he is beginning to get down "All Done" (which looks alot like waving bye-bye at this point).

He is obsessed with climbing stairs...and is super fast too! He loves being read to, he will dig out the same 2 books and bring them to you, all the while signing "please". The 2 books are "Baby Jesus, Baby Me" and "Where's Baby's Belly Button". So far this month Mason has gone to World's Of Fun, got his 1st pair of Nike's, is working on 2 more teeth and he is now legally "MASON"! We met with a local judge this past Monday to make his name change complete. What's next you ask? Well, here goes....

*Get an amended State BC with legal name...CHECK
*File a petition for Readoption w/in our STATE...Attorney has been contacted and has our paperwork.
*Apply for a Social Security number and card...
*Apply for and eventually receive his COC (Certificate of Citizenship)
*At some point get a US passport

My best guess it will be at least another 6-8wks before the State readoption is complete, I can work on his SSN anytime and we will apply for the COC after the readoption. I have been told it can take up to 6 months to get an appt at the USCIS Office after you have applied for the COC. Guess we will wait and see!

At W-O-F...see Uncle Lee and Cousin Brileigh in the background!?
On Saturday Mason kept putting this hat on...backwards!

Catch me if you can!
It started out just helping Daddy water....

Batter Up!!

"Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes"

Ephesians 6:11

A Busy Little Boy...

2008-07-29T20:01:00.010-05:00

So, it's been a while since the last post! I bet you're wondering what Mason has been up to these past few weeks. Well, his 2 front teeth have been making their way in. Tonight it looks like he is working on a 5th tooth as well (the tooth next to his Rt. front tooth). His biggest accomplishment since last post is WALKING! Yes, we have a WALKER now! He is so flippin' cute while walking...so proud of himself.

Mason had his 1 year Dr's visit on July 15th. He weighed in at 21# 15oz. He received his 4 shots (ouch! but, nothing a little ice cream afterwards didn't fix!) and the Dr. gave us the green light on switching from formula to whole milk. Since that appt. we have been back to see the Dr. twice (yes, that is 3 times this month). We had to go see the Dr. because of Cat Scratch Disease (yes, Cat Scratch Fever is real, not just a Ted Nuggent song) and then the following week he developed a fever and unrelated virus. He is due to finish up his round of Augmentin for the Cat Scratch Disease this week.

The week following his 1st birthday we decided we would start weaning a bottle at a time. Not that we are in a hurry for him to grow up, we just don't want to be sending him off to school with a bottle someday! Since then we have successfully weaned him from his 3 day bottles, so now his is just down to his 1 evening bottle.

Other than that, we have just been enjoying the summer...ballgames, swimming pools, etc. Mason continues to go to daycare 2-3 times a week and does wonderful there. Our daycare provider is nothing short of a "God-Thing". She is a stay at home mother of 4, good Christian woman and simply fabulous. She and her family love Mason, and we love them!

Please keep up the prayers for the waiting EN children and families. A few more kiddos have made their way home, but many are still waiting. I would also like to take this time to mention another prayer request. My sis-in-law (my hubby's youngest sister) is expecting twins...a girl (McKinley) and a boy (Grant)! Today marks her 26 week mark and she has been on bed rest the past few weeks due to complications. We are praying for the health and safety of mother and babies. She has started a blog, if you would like to follow along in their story. http://www.mckinleygrant.blogspot.com/ .

To my blogger pals...I still check your blogs every few weeks, but rarely take the time to comment anymore. Please keep bloggin'...I look forward to your updates and pictures. And, for those that still comment on our blog....THANKS! We love reading your comments.

Father and Son
Taking a break during a softball tourney.
In Mason's world, all things are a source of joy.

Humm...Notice any encouragement from Daddy?

Me and My Dad...

Silly boy with a bowl on his head.

Playing.

Daddy clipping nails while Mason is sleeping.

Handsome Boy.

Mommy's attempt to get a "walking" picture.

Mason loves to be read to.

Mason, blame the mismatched PJ's on your father.

Isn't he just precious?!

The realm of God has no limits or bounds whatsoever.

More Firsts....

2008-07-10T15:32:00.028-05:00

Since our last post, Mason has celebrated his 1st 4th of July, 1st Birthday and 1st hair cut! We hope you have a little time, because there are lots of pictures to see!

Mason celebrated his 1st birthday on July 5th, we held his birthday celebration on July 6th. As his 1st birthday was approaching, I found myself filled with many thoughts and emotions. I even took the time to write them down, thinking I would share my thoughts at his birthday party. I didn't end up sharing that day because I am not much for public speaking, I didn't want to cry and things were just super crazy! Crazy...but fun! On Sunday our family ate lunch together at a local Mexican/Guatemalan restaurant, then gathered at our house for presents, cake and ice cream.

However, since this blog is for scrapbooking purposes (as well as keeping family and friends updated) I will share the "speech" I was going to deliver. (So, for those of you that were there...this is what I spared you from hearing!)

I don't think it's the "norm" for a 1st birthday party to involve a "speech". However, I have had so many thoughts in the last few days that I felt it best just to get them out and share them with close friends and family. Also, if I pull a stunt like this in 10 years, Mason will be absolutely horrified! While I am emotional about our baby boy turning 1, I am even more emotional about the fact that he is HOME with his FAMILY to celebrate this day.

A year ago on July 5th Cristian Alexander, now known as Mason, was born in Mazatenango, Guatemala. A year ago on July 7th we received the call that would forever change our family. A call asking us to share our lives with this tiny little 5# baby boy. A baby we knew so little about, but knew in a big way that God had brought into our lives with purpose. We hoped and prayed that Mason would be home in time to celebrate his 1st birthday at home with us. We don't feel this is just another ordinary 1st birthday party...it's truly an answered prayer.

Mason is still on the move...Daddy often refers to him as "Captain Active"! He is still walking around furniture or pushing toys to walk around the house. His front, right tooth is making its way in...slowly but surely. Not much in the way of any new words...at least not English...lots of jibber jabber though! Oh, and his latest stunt...STAIRS! He can be up 3 or 4 stairs in no time at all...it's getting back down them that is the problem. :)

Happy 1st birthday...a trike!

Mason's own lil' bday cake
Diggin' In

The end result...

First Hair Cut on 07/10/2008

1 Year Portraits

Ready for 4th of July fireworks!

Papa helping Mommy with bday cupcakes

Daddy, Mason and Mommy

Yummy!

I think he found his sweet tooth!

Checkin' out this summer's hottest swimwear!

Peek-A-Boo!

Fireworks celebration on July 3rd

Daddy Days!

2008-06-24T20:46:00.020-05:00

I didn't get around to posting on Father's Day, so I thought I would take the time to acknowledge all that Daddy does for Mason. Mason gets to spend 2 full days a week with Daddy, because he has Monday & Tuesday off. Therefore, Mondays and Tuesdays are now known as Daddy Days around our house. They have a great time together and Daddy hasn't been afraid of jumping right in and changing diapers, bathing, feeding and playing. Thank you for being such a good Daddy and husband.

Mason's switch is pretty much in the "ON" position when he is awake. He is a busy little guy, very curious, a quick learner and does not have much fear. In the last few weeks he has learned to clap, wave bye-bye and give kisses. Last night he figured out how to stand up and walk around while holding on to one of his push toys. It won't be long until he is walking...which I am sure will soon become running! We absolutely eat up every single one of his kisses...even though they are pretty much open mouth! As soon as we get him up from his crib in the morning the kisses start! Oh, and he claps for himself after every kiss. He is such a fun little boy and we continue to be amazed by the blessing we have received.

A quick update on the Eagle's Nest and then on to pictures! 3 more of my blogger pals will soon be bringing home their little ones from the EN...Sarah, Braxton & Kendall. The Lord is moving mountains and uniting families. (See The Gross Family, Braxton's Family and The King Family under EN Families list in the sidebar). The future of adoptions still remains uncertain at this time. No new referrals have been made since the end of 2007....however, this doesn't mean that their are no longer children and families in need. The EN continues to need prayers, donations and the assistance of mission teams. If you feel it in your heart to pray, give a financial gift or your time please visit their website at http://www.eaglesnestint.org/ .

Mason's first trip to the park!

Going down the slide with Daddy!

A tribute to Daddy...

Clapping after giving Daddy a kiss!
Cleaning house with Daddy.
Our first Father's Day.
A day together at the pool...

Watching my first parade with Mommy.

Mason, Papa, Aunt Kim, Uncle Justin, Big D, Nana, Mommy

Big D and Mason at the parade.

Still wanting no part of the hat...

Mason loves to throw the ball...

and of course clap for himself after each successful pitch!

I just took this one tonight...how precious is he?

One Hit Wonder...

2008-06-11T13:41:00.014-05:00

Wowzers...it's been awhile since my last post. Time is just trucking by. Mason is doing wonderful and becoming more mobile and curious with each passing day. He is an entertainer and loves to be entertained...the louder and sillier one acts, the harder he laughs! Mason turned 11 months old on June 5th. This means the big "1" is less than a month away!

As far as the title of this post....As you know, Mason said his first word last month. Well, he has never said "Kitty" again. So, we've decided he is a "One Hit Wonder"! He starting walking around furniture on May 18th. On May 21st we switched formula to Enfamil Gentlease Lipil. Our Pediatrician recommended this, although his rash was considerably better, it was still there. It seems to be cleared up for the most part. I think he just has super sensitive skin because we notice the rash when we have used sunscreen or when he has had a bath daily vs every other day.

Ok, some more "Mason's Firsts"...
*Attended his first birthday party on May 25th (Big D turned 4!).
*Watched his first Softball Tournament on June 1st (Daddy's team won!).
*First full day of daycare on June 2nd...he did awesome.
*First night away from Daddy on June 4th. Mason & I went to see my parents overnight for a family funeral.
*Mason went to his first dinner party on June 8th...a shrimp boil (of course veggies and fruits only for Mason)
*Daddy took Mason to his first day at the pool since being home on June 10th.
*Mason went to see the Women's USA Softball Team play last night!

Three more EN babies are coming home soon! Nathan, Gabriel and Danny (see Trusting For Seven, The Schommers and Warm Bottles & Hot Flashes)! Thank you, Lord, for uniting these families!

Now, what you really came for...PICTURES!

Mason vs. Gracie

Mommy only wanted one good picture...

and Mason wasn't having any part of it...
this was a very dramatic photo shoot...
and these are just a few of the many deleted pics!

Poor little thing!

At the USA Women's softball game...

Food from the Shrimp Boil...No, I didn't make it!

Mason vs. Grace Part II

Mason is OBSESSED with this little soccer ball!

Kitty...

2008-05-17T13:04:00.012-05:00

We have been trying to get Mason to say "Mama" or "Dada"...but he just looks at us and laughs. Then, unexpectedly and very clearly, Mason said his first word this last Wednesday. "Kitty"! No joke...what a BIG first word! The following day, Mason started pulling himself up. It's amazing how quickly things change! In the blink of an eye we'll be taking him to get his drivers license!

I had hoped to post on Mother's Day, but it was a pretty busy day. My first Mother's Day...it was wonderful. Mason was dedicated at Church that morning, then we went out to eat with my Mom, Dad, Brother, Sis-In-Law and Big D. That afternoon we just hung out at our house and ate cupcakes that I made the day prior. Big D insisted that everyone had to have a candle in their cupcake, make a wish and blow it out. Can you tell he is in BIRTHDAY mode? He will be turning 4 on May 25th.

Health Update: Mason had a Dr's appt on May 13th. He was 19# 7.5 oz and 28.5" long. He still had a rash, which seemed to be getting worse. The Dr. instructed us to stop using our current baby bathing products and lotions and to try a new baby wash from Aquaphor...to only bathe him every other day and not to use lotions. We had been using the Bedtime Bath by J&J and bathing him each night. Anyway, the Dr. said if this doesn't help the rash, he would look at a possible milk allergy next. Well, we have followed the Dr's instructions and Mason's skin looks SO much better! It's a little dry though...wonder if Aquaphor makes a baby lotion?? I have their skin protectant (which I love). We hope his skin continues to improve and it was really as simple as changing bath products!

Dedication Day...

Mother's Day...

Another visit from the Hair Fairy...
Cute lil' Mohawk...
Some pictures Mommy took this morning...

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth" 3 John 4

Please Pray For The Orphans In Guatemala...

2008-05-08T20:39:00.009-05:00

Oh how the ups and downs of the adoption process remain fresh in my mind. I would literally be totally excited one day and crying the next. It seemed the news we received changed almost daily. Unfortunately, the most recent news on Guatemalan adoptions is NOT good.
Guatemala has suspended ALL adoptions, including those grandfathered in and all current inprocess cases, for at least 30 days. Although Mason is safely home (Thank you, Lord) the orphans of Guatemala are in my thoughts and prayers daily (especially those at the Eagle's Nest). I feel absolutely sick for the waiting parents. Please keep the waiting children and families in your prayers.

Life at our house is good. Mason turned 10 months old on May 5th and has been home for 2 months today. I would almost bet that he will be walking by his 1st birthday. He isn't "pulling" himself up, rather "pushing" himself up to a standing position. Speaking of his 1st birthday, we have been thinking ahead to exactly what we plan to do to celebrate this day. I am trying to come up with some cute ideas for a birthday cake or cupcakes. Bloggers...if you have any ideas that you would like to share, please do so!

Mason and Papa

He has the cutest belly laugh!

Mason and Big D

Hangin' out with Big D

Somebody had a visit from the hair fairy!

Our Announcement...after 2 months!

Mason's first softball game...Daddy's team won!

"O Lord, my strength and my fortress, my refuge in times of distress" Jeremiah 16:19

Lord, please uplift and give strength to the families who are waiting to bring home their babies from Guatemala.

Back To Reality...

2008-05-02T13:59:00.009-05:00

I went back to work this last Monday. I honestly bawled my eyes out Sunday night after putting Mason to bed, I did fine on Monday though. Fortunately I am "easing" back into work, so I am only working 2 days a week through the month of May. I will step it up to 3 days a week in June and then will be back f/t by mid-July. Even when I am back f/t, my plan is to only work 4 days a week. We are actually very blessed at this point as I am working on Daddy's days off, so Mason gets "Daddy Day" twice a week. Once I am back f/t, Mason's week will consist of staying with Daddy 2 days, Mommy 1 day and then a friend of mine will keep him the other 2 days.

Mason continues to learn and grow daily. He is finally feeling a little better...we ended up on 5 days of Prednisolone last week. He has pretty much had a runny nose since the day we met him...I am beginning to think "allergies"?? His rash came back this week too....I don't know what to make of that, it's on his chest, tummy, neck and upper back. He has a check up later this month, so I am hoping we can hold out on anymore Dr visits or calls until then.

More Mason Updates:
*His second tooth is almost completely in.
*He is now crawling at lightening speed!
*He has a new bruise on his forehead...because he is know trying to pull himself up!
*He continues to love being outside...stroller rides and his new tree swing.

*He experienced his first good ol' Midwest Tornado Warning! The sirens went off at 1am, so we got to head to the basement in the middle of the night. Luckily we didn't have any of the severe stuff in our area. Mason was a trooper, he barely even woke up and went right back to bed when it was over.

Family Fun:
*Mason has a new cousin....Brileigh Jo who was born on April 25th (also my baby brother's 30th birthday)! Brileigh is the daughter of Matt's brother, Lee, and his wife Ande. Brileigh is adorable and so, so tiny!
*My cousin had a little girl on April 24th! Look out Addison Lynn...you've got 4 big brothers to keep track of!

Eagle's Nest News:
*2 more babies are coming home to their forever families! Gabriel and Nathan's cases were approved by PGN. (See "Trusting For Seven" and "The Schommers")

Picture Time...

You can thank Aunt Darl for this someday!

Snack-Time!

Uncle Lee, Cousin Brileigh, Mason & Daddy
Bedtime
Bubble Beard
Aren't the sunglasses hilarious!?

Mason and Mommy

"But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called today." Hewbrews 3:13

Mr. Big Stuff

2008-04-21T09:05:00.017-05:00

Mason has been super busy since our last post. He made a road trip to western KS to see Papa and Granny, so Mason has now been to Daddy's home town. While we were there a few ladies from the community threw us a welcome home shower. Mason was of course the center of attention and he received LOTS of neat gifts! A few days later we made another road trip to see Papa and Nana. Nana had surgery last Wednesday :( but is now home. A 9 month old + a hospital room all day = a bored baby! :)

Mason has made some advances over the past week...
*We officially have a crawler (time to get the baby gates up Daddy)!
*He is feeding himself Gerber Puffs (aka baby crack) like a Pro!
*We introduced the "sippy cup". He thinks it's pretty funny, but isn't taking much from it yet.
*He started a new phase on Thursday...he cries every time we walk out of the room.
*Mason has also experienced his first bout of being sick since coming home...started with a cough on Friday, then a fever and rash Saturday night, lots of fussiness, fever off and on Sunday, still coughing this am w/ light rash. So we had an appointment with the Pediatrician this am, turns out Mason has Croup! The Dr said since he was a "vent baby", Croup may be something he gets each time he has a cold or virus..no fun. (I know Aunt Holly reads this...so thanks for letting us call you Saturday night for advice!)
*Today's weight...19# 5oz.

Here are some pictures from the last week!

"The Farm"- Papa & Granny's in western KS

Papa & Daddy working on a project...A new windstock for the top of the pole!

Yes, that is Daddy in the tractor bucket...
Ta-Da! Project completed!
Mason and Daddy driving the Mule

Granny, Mason and Papa

Our view for 300 miles...

An occassional cow or oil well along the way...

Yes, that is a dog bone toy. Don't worry, it's new, never been in a dog's mouth. Daddy bought this as a teething toy for Mason (no, I am NOT kidding). Oddly enough, Mason loves it!

Still loving the tub...he alternates splashing then lounging!

When Daddy does my hair...doesn't he look like the next American Idol?

Wearing a ball cap for the first time...

If you look really close, you can see a tooth...

Crawling...

Out!

"Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise." James 5:13

Snowing In April?!

2008-04-12T14:58:00.014-05:00

That's right! Gotta love this crazy Midwest weather. This morning it was snowing here, no accumulation, but big ol' snowflakes! I am sure Mason is wondering what is up with this sunny one day, snow the next day weather. It's a far cry from the beautiful weather in Guatemala. The weather is so beautiful in Guatemala that it's known as "The Eternal Spring".

I will give a quick review of this weeks happenings and share some new pictures!
*This past Thursday (April 10th) marked 4 weeks that Mason has been home!
*Mason received his first "ouchie"...a slight bump below his right eye in the bath tub!
*Tooth #2 is slowly but surely making it's way in!
*Mason wants to crawl SO BADLY...he is getting close, but oh so frustrated!
*Filed the first (of many more) papers to register Mason's adoption in our state. Now we wait on his state issued birth certificate (then we can file a name change, get an amended BC, file for a COC and apply for a SS card).
*Another EN baby is coming home soon! This family lives about 1 1/2 hrs from us. They are adopting 2 children from the EN, Adelia and Antonio. Adelia's case was approved by PGN just this week. Thank you, Lord, for another answered prayer.
*ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK...GO KU! 2008 National Champions!

Mason enjoying one of his favorite snacks...Baby Mum Mum's!

This face cracks me up! Cute outfit: FRONT Cute outfit: BACK
Bath Time = Free Entertainment for our cat, Lilly

Precious Boy (notice the red mark under his right eye)

Another post tub injury shot. He looks so sweet!

Baby's Got His Blue Jeans On!

Cutest Lil' Piggies

Mason, meet Sophie & Vinny. 2 boxers = too much slobber!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk...Go KU!!

2008-04-05T14:43:00.015-05:00

Today is a great day for several reasons...1) Mason is 9 months old 2) Tonight the final four games will be played 3) the weather here is wonderful!! I am a bit torn for the KU vs UNC game...I "guess" I am a KU fan since I am a midwest girl and went to graduate school at KU. However, I picked UNC as the winner in my bracket! Anyway, as you can see, Mason is dressed and ready to cheer KU on tonight.

This week's highlights-
*Trip to CG (Mommy's hometown). While we were there, a group of old friend/coworkers surprised us with a shower! THANKS AGAIN MCH GIRLS!
*More visitors, some playtime with little friends.
*First trip to the mall...all of approximately 10 minutes! Mason does NOT like shopping. Daddy is excited about this, because he hates shopping with Mommy too. Daddy said now Mason can be his "little scapegoat" to get out of shopping or to at least get Mommy out of the store faster! :)

I have to share a funny story before you move on to the pictures. Today, I went to a car seat safety check. As soon as I opened up the door to the backseat and the inspector looked in, she said (and I quote) "Oh no, this is bad". To make a LONG story very short...It took her and another worker almost an hour to get our seat in properly. It even involved me sitting in the car seat so they could get the seat belt as tight as it needed to be (oh yes, picture to prove it). The woman helping us was super helpful and she told me about 95% of the car seats they inspect are installed incorrectly.

So my advice to those of you with children/babies in a car seat...
*Take the time to go get it inspected!
*All of the cute, extra fun stuff for your car and car seat....DON'T BUY IT!

I had the cute little Eddie Bauer mirror and seat protector and the cute little strap covers. If it isn't part of the car seat it's not safety approved! She said technically car seats are only "safe" when they are installed and used the exact way they are tested. So all the extra stuff, isn't part of the way the seat is supposed to be used. Now, she did say they can't "force" someone not to use the extra stuff, but it's not recommended. If it's not a part of the car seat, it may not be safe. They way the car seats are tested in crash tests, is they way they are when you buy them. Not with all the mirrors, toys, etc, etc. So, I learned something new. I promptly went home, got my husband's truck and went down there to have that seat checked as well.

Car Seat Safey (sorry, I can't figure out how to rotate the picture)

Helping Daddy work...

Cutest Thing Ever...
Future baseball player???
First day driving and already on the cell phone!

Hot stuff!

Honk if you are cheering for KU tonight!

Stud Muffin in his new set of wheels...

Mason at bedtime...bottle, blankie and bunny!

Daddy dressed me! (notice onesie is on backwards)

People ask, "Is he always happy"? The answer...

Mommy just had to buy this onesie...it's too funny!

Long eyelashes...Mommy is sooo jealous! :)

Lil' KU Jayhawk!

Home For 2 Weeks...

2008-03-27T20:54:00.016-05:00

Today marks 2 weeks that Mason has been home. He really seems to be adjusting well. Initially he was having some sleep issues, but they seem to be getting better. We are focusing on keeping things routine and predictable. My time home with Mason is just flying by...it's amazing how little I get done during the course of a day (like updating the blog)! I am going to try to keep the blog updated, as it will serve as a scrapbook someday. I feel very blessed to have this time away from work to spend with Mason. He is just precious and we are beyond blessed to have him home.

A quick update of all Mason's happenings since we have been home...
*Pediatrician Appt on 3/17. He is healthy and we got the green light on starting fruits...he loves them! He weighed 17# 14oz. He is the 15percentile for weight.

*He is sitting up even better. He is less wobbly each day. He is rolling all over the place!

*First road trip on Easter Sunday, we took a 2+ hr road trip to visit Granny after her surgery.

*He still loves his thumb and blankie! He LOVES bath-time and thinks his Daddy is the funniest thing on the planet!

*He has had lots of visitors. He is very social, so he really seems to be enjoying the company.

*He went on his first stroller ride last week. He loved it! I think he enjoyed the time outside.

As far as family happenings...
*We are in the process of looking for another vehicle. I haven't posted this yet...but I was in an accident the day before we left for Guatemala. My SUV was totalled. Thank God nobody was injured.

*I woke up with Pink Eye in my left eye this past Tuesday morning, and then woke up Wednesday morning with it in my right eye! What a mess! Tell me, what 34 year old gets Pink Eye!?

*I am starting to educate myself on the re-adoption process...more paperwork...imagine that! :)

Now, what you are all looking for...PICTURES!!

My first Easter Basket...from Mommy and Daddy.

My first road trip...

Splish-Splash!
Story Time With Mommy...

Too Cute!

My First Stroller Ride...

My First St. Patty's Day...

First Pediatrician Appt. on March 17th

Look Out Ladies...

Pitching Practice With Daddy (aka-"tossing the rock")

Bounced Himself To Sleep...

Easter Basket From Nana & Papa...

Precious Boy...

*Good News! Kendall is coming home soon. Her case has been approved by PGN. Check out her blog (see the list of EN Families on the sidebar...The "King Family"). Thank you, Lord, for bringing home another EN baby.

Home Sweet Home!

2008-03-16T08:50:00.019-05:00

Hello! We have been safely back at home since the evening of 3/13. Sorry to have kept you all waiting, but we have just been enjoying our time with Mason and letting everything else go! I know you are here for details and mostly pictures, so I will try to keep this brief!

Now that we are home, I can give you more details about our actual trip. We left for Guatemala at the crack of dawn on Sunday, March 9th. We had Mason in our arms FOREVER within a couple of hours of landing in Guatemala City. Our embassy appointment was on Tuesday, March 11 and we were able to pick up Mason's Visa the following day. Then, we flew home at the crack of dawn on Thursday, March 13. Really, the trip went very well. Flights were on time, embassy appointments went well. I became ill during the night on Wednesday and was not 100% yet on Thursday, so it was a VERY LONG flight home. My husband's parents traveled to Guatemala with us, and I am SO thankful that we had the extra support and extra hands!

Mason's Status: ABSOLUTELY PRECIOUS! His eyelashes are amazing. He is very happy and easily entertained. He did AWESOME on the flight home! He has had a cold for a few days, but seemed to be feeling a little better yesterday. He is so little...all the clothes I took were too big, so thankfully the EN brought a few of the care package items I had sent. He was 8 months on March 5th, size 6 months seem to fit best...he can still fit into a few 3/6 month outfits as well.

THANK YOU to everyone who has followed us on this journey. We appreciate all the prayers and support. This journey has been absolutely amazing...the highs and lows, the tears and smiles...all completely worth it! My prayer for the last several months has been for this child to be in our arms forever and that the Lord's name would be glorified throughout this entire journey. The Lord's presence has been so evident, I am so thankful for his faithfulness.

To those of you who have called me, and haven't heard back from me yet....SORRY! I am thinking of you and will get you called back. To those who are wanting to come visit, please do! Just give me a call and we will make arrangements. We are extremely proud and love showing him off! To the EN families (and other waiting families) who are waiting to bring their babies home, my thoughts and prayers are constantly with you...I know how hard the wait is!

Our Family of Three... My first bath at home... Mommy loving on me in Guatemala... More lovin'... My first swim with Daddy... My first swimsuit... Getting ready for the Embassy... Ready to go to the Embassy... Mason loves his thumb and blankie... One cool little boy... My first evening with Mommy in Guatemala...Wake up Daddy, I am ready to play... My first dinner out...Our first night in Guatemala. Being a big boy, sitting in the hi-chair at my first dinner out... My first meeting and bottle with Daddy..."For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of him. So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord." 1 Samuel 1:27-28

March Maddness!

2008-03-05T18:33:00.008-06:00

Hello! Today Mason is 8 months old! We received new photos and a health update today. Mason does have a cold right now, so we are praying he is feeling better soon. His weight is now 16# 7 oz and he is 26" long.

I have completely lost my mind due to anticipation and excitement (hence the title of this post!). I should not be allowed to operate a vehicle until after he is home...I have stopped at green lights, ran red lights and completely bypassed my turns multiple times in the past week. By the grace of God, I have not injured myself, anyone else or received a ticket! I have been popping flintstones and vitamin C to keep myself from getting sick (I swear nearly everyone around us as fallen ill to the flu or the respiratory junk). I have Mason's suitcase and the donations/care pkg's packed (down to 2 suitcases!). I even managed to make a few ice cube trays full of homemade baby food! Yes, me! Look out Martha Stewart! :)

We are now counting down the DAYS until Mason is in our arms FOREVER!

Please pray for Mason's health and safety (as well as ours), safe travels and a happy union of our family! We pray that our family will attach and bond in a healthy and quick fashion. Also, hold the other EN families and babies in your thoughts and prayers. There are several families still in process, who ache to have their babies home soon. There are also still babies at the EN who have not been matched with forever families due to legal aspects of the current adoption process.

Guess What?

2008-02-22T18:55:00.003-06:00

WE ARE PINK!! Now picture us with huge smiles and tears of joy! We are just so grateful for this news. God truly his faithful. He lead us to this journey and will certainly see us through it! Amazingly, I have accomplished quite a bit this afternoon...

Hotel Reservations......CHECK
Flight Reservations.....CHECK
Pediatrician Appt.........CHECK

Yes, I am a complete spaz right now! We just want to say THANK YOU to all the love, support and prayers that have been offered to our family these past several months. We continue to pray for Mason's health and safety & safe travels. We also ask God continue to work on us...all 3 of us...for our family of 2 will soon be 3! God is good!

(I realize I haven't mentioned travel dates...since this is a blog that anybody can view, I don't want to post those for security reasons. I have sent emails to many of you w/ specific dates, so you can pray during our travel. Thx!)

"This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes." Psalm 118:23

A Pleasant Surprise!

2008-02-21T20:39:00.010-06:00

Yesterday we came home to find an unexpected package in the mail. It contained 2 disposable cameras! I had sent the cameras down in care packages several months ago. So, of course, I ran straight to the one-hour photo counter to have them developed...the girl at the counter knows me by name (I am not kidding)!

Quick update: Still praying for PINK. I have officially become COMPLETELY and TOTALLY consumed with waiting for our pink slip. For me, it's no longer "Pretty in Pink" but more like "Psycho in Pink"! We did receive confirmation that the US Embassy has our DNA and all paperwork from the DHS. We should receive the much anticipated, long awaited and faithfully prayed for PINK either Friday or Monday.

If we don't get it tomorrow, and I have to face the weekend without it....say a little prayer for me! Now, enough of my silliness and on to some cuteness...MASON!

Hello Mason! It's your Mommy! (edited to add pics)

2008-02-19T19:38:00.004-06:00

Hello! I received a surprise phone call on Saturday...from Mason! Ok, he had a little help calling. There is currently a mission team at the EN from our area. I happened to meet the gentleman heading up the team about a year ago (still amazes me how God works like that!). Anyway, he called me and said he had somebody who wanted to talk to me!

Apparently there were several mamas around him trying to get him to make noise and laugh, they put the phone up to his ear and he was crying (a combo of overstimulation and naptime I am certain). I was lost for words (yes me, lost for words!) and all I could say was "Hello Mason, it's your Mommy. We love you." I didn't even care that he was crying, it was just wonderful to hear him! I am so, so thankful for the time and thoughtfulness that was put forth in making this call.

Now, what you are really here to find out...we are waiting for PINK. We received our 2nd DNA results today (which were fine). The results were sent to the US Embassy on 2/15. The Embassy was closed yesterday, so the results should have been delivered today. Our agency said we should receive PINK this week...by Monday at the latest.

We have been making the most of the time we have left to prepare for Mason's homecoming. The wardrobe and toy chest are in place and full! We just need to hang the valance and pictures. I indulged in a little retail therapy this weekend! I have 3 suitcases packed so far. 1 w/ a care packages and donations for the EN and 2 for Mason. Trust me, I tried to get all his stuff in one but it just wasn't happening! All that little stuff takes up space.

Pray that God continues to prepare Mason and us for the day we finally meet. Pray for the health and safety of Mason, along w/ the other children and staff at the EN (and our health too! lots of crud going around!). Pray we receive PINK soon and without incident. Also, pray for safe travels for the local mission team that is currently at the EN.

Also, EN families wanting to send care packages...leave a comment and try to get the packages to me as soon as you are able. To those who have traveled to Guate in the past...I would love any tips/advice you have to offer. If you stayed at the Holiday Inn, leave a comment and let me know how it was. Thanks! :)

By special request, I have edited this post to add pictures from our baby shower. Enjoy!

Surprise Shower w/ Women's Bible Study Group
Couple's Shower...Modeling his "Daddy Tool Belt"!
Couple's Shower...special little friend who helped w/ gifts! ;)

Couple's Shower...Us...You had to be there.... :)

Couple's Shower...Super Cute AND Super Yummy Cakes!

Couple's Shower...Us and our 2 little helpers!

Couple's Shower...Us & the anxiously awaiting Grandparents!

Couple's Shower...Another shot of us and our helpers.

Hubby, Granny, Papa and Me

Papa, Granny, Auntie D, Me, Hubby, Auntie A & Uncle L

Work Shower...Adorable Cake...Ridiculously Delicious!

Work Shower...Me opening gifts

Things To Do While Waiting For The Adoption To Be Complete...

2008-02-12T20:18:00.000-06:00

I came across this "Things To Do" list when we were very early in the adoption process. It still cracks me up, so I thought I would share it with you. What's even funnier is that these are sooooo true. I am guilty of most of them! ;)

Teach yourself to knit…by the time the adoption is complete, you can have an entire wardrobe complete for your child - through age 12 (ok, I didn't take up knitting, but have a closet stocked of 6-24 month clothes...I am NOT kidding)

Stalk other people’s blogs and compare timelines (guilty)

Obsessively check message boards/forums to check up on gossip and compare timelines (guilty...I am a Guatadopt and Adoption.com addict)

Rearrange the furniture in the nursery weekly (once again, guilty! wardrobe and toy chest to be delivered tomorrow...then I can finally make up my mind)

Go to the mall and stalk families with children who look like they might be internationally adopted.

Stock pile diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion, and baby soap. (Yep! Stages 2-5 diapers...all different brands)

Launder the wardrobe you have purchased for your child repeatedly then reorganize the closet and dresser. Again. (I actually held off on removing tags or washing anything until we were out of PGN)

Practice your glare in the mirror for anyone to who dares to ask if you have heard when your child will be coming home. (I haven't done this one)

Learn Spanish. Impress the kid at the Taco Bell drive thru by ordering in Spanish. (NOT guilty)

Practice Car Seat installation drills. Try to get your time down to 45 seconds for correct installation. (Please don't give my husband any ideas...)

Get used to the feel of the Baby Bjorn carrier by carrying the cat around in it. (Ok, I have tried it on, but haven't put the cat in it. Again, please don't give my husband any ideas)

Check email for 37th time for messages from your agency. (This one is soooo true!)

Seek medical attention for the scratches from the cat.

Replace shredded Baby Bjorn.

Call husband and ask him to send test email to ensure email is working. (I have actually sent "test" emails to myself!)

Call husband and ask him to leave you a voice mail to ensure it is working correctly.

Check voicemail for the 24th time in case agency called while you were checking email.

Check voicemail again in case agency tried to call while you were talking to your husband.

Take deep breaths and try not to come unglued when people tell you that you have to keep living your life normally until you get “the call". (Yeah right! Stressed, anxious? Not me!) :)

"Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable...dwell on these things." Philippians 4:8

Moving Right Along...

2008-02-07T21:54:00.000-06:00

Things continue to progress on our case! Mason had is 2nd DNA test completed today. It will take about 7-14 days for the results to arrive to the US Embassy. Once the results are received and reviewed by the USE, we should receive "PINK" just a few days following. Mason turned 7 months old this past Tuesday. We received updated pictures and new stats. He weighs 15# 12oz.
This week has been wonderful...2 baby showers and another one on the way. Earlier this week a group of women from my Bible Study surprised me with a shower...THANKS LADIES! Tonight, work had a shower (I work with a wonderful group of people by the way)...THANKS CO-WORKERS! We have a third shower this Sunday, it's a couple's shower, which is being hosted by 2 dear friends of ours...THANKS JEN & JEFF. I am very excited for this shower, because our parents (among other family members) will be in town to celebrate with us! Plus, we will be among friends!

I have gotten quite a bit done w/ the nursery...clothes and blankets washed, starting to stock up on diapers, wipes and formula, etc. We are having a couple of pieces of furniture made (wardrobe & toy chest) and they should be delivered to our house sometime next week. Once these pieces arrive I will need to arrange the furniture, hang a few things and finish up organizing the room. I have several "to do" and "to pack" lists already started. Which reminds me...any EN families out there that want to send down care packages, leave me a comment and we will connect somehow.

Now, what you really stopped by for....THE PICTURES!

The overalls were a pair of my nephew's (Big D)...so these pictures are extra special!

We continue to pray that these last few steps go smoothly and without incident. We pray God will continue prepare Mason and us for the day we become a forever family!

"Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, for the Lord is good; His love endures forever" Jeremiah 33:11b

New Birth Certificate....Check!

2008-01-30T19:06:00.000-06:00

Yep! It's official, Mason has our last name! His first birthname remains the same, so we will have to legally change his first name once we have him home. Which leads to another question many have..."Have you decided on a middle name yet?" The answer: No, we are still discussing it. I can tell you we will be incorporating his birthname though.

Our attorney plans to get the passport tomorrow and will hopefully submit our final papers to the US Embassy early next week. Then we wait for DNA authorization from the USE! Please pray that Pedro is able to get our passport tomorrow and get all our final paperwork to the US Embassy for the 2nd DNA early next week! Also, continue to pray for Mason's health and safety and that the financial needs of the Eagles Nest are met.

Thanks again for all of your love, prayers and support! I am posting some pictures of the "damage" I have done. I am not even kidding when I say that this isn't everything...there have been a few other purchases since the initial "WE ARE OUT OF PGN" shopping spree. Also, I have been stocking up on diapers, formula, wipes and baby veggies. I was able to find out what size/brand of diapers and what forumla Mason is currently using. He is now eating "veggies" at lunch...HOMEMADE baby veggies that is. He is soooo loved and spoiled! :)

Clothes, Swing, Bumbo seat!

More clothes....various sizes...planning ahead (of course)

PJ's (various sizes)

Care Package #5. I sent this pkg down w/ a family who traveled to Guate last week.

My laundry room is functional again! Looks nice and clean now!
"For with God nothing will be impossible" Luke 1:37

Still Rejoicing!

2008-01-26T16:24:00.000-06:00

I am pretty sure I have been running on pure adrenaline for the past week! I hope this adrenaline rush gets me through the next few weeks of waiting! I am still in shock and can't even tell you the number of times each day I thank the Lord for the good news we have received. I have had many people ask about the next steps, so here is my attempt to outline them for you:

1. Final Decree. The Final Decree is issued & signed by the Birth Mother for the 4th and final time. This is the day Mason becomes legally ours. DONE !!!!!!

2. Civil Registry Issues New Birth Certificate. Once the Final Decree is signed, a request for a new birth certificate to the Civil Registry where the child's birth is registered is submitted. The Civil Registry will issue a new Birth Certificate showing the child's birth first name and the adoptive parent's last name. Our agency thought the attorney would get the BC sometime last week. Awaiting confirmation.

3. Passport. Once the new BC arrives, a file is submitted to Immigration in Guatemala to request the child's passport. Our agency thought the attorney would have this by today (1/26), if he was able to get BC this past week.

4. Final Package to Embassy and DNA Authorization. The Final Package (translated versions of the BC, Final Decree, PGN resolution, POA, PA, Passport photocopy, & Home Study) is submitted to the US Embassy. Within 24 hours the Embassy issues authorization (the Orange Slip) for second DNA test and Embassy Medical Exam. The passport and Orange Slip should happen 1-2 days from receipt of BC.

5. DNA Sample and Medical Exam. The child is taken to the Embassy doctor for a medical exam & a second DNA sample (to ensure the child is the same child that got pre-approval when the process began). The DNA sample is sent to a laboratory in the States. The test results are sent to the US Embassy. DNA test results are taking about 2 weeks from the date the sample is taken.

6. Visa Appointment Scheduled (Pink Slip). Once the DNA test results are received by the US Embassy, the visa appointment is scheduled and the adoptive parents notified. The notification is called the Pink Slip. The Pink Slip is emailed within 48 hours of the Embassy receiving DNA confirmation. They say appointment dates are approximately10 days to 2 weeks from scheduling, but I have been seeing 2-2 1/2 weeks as well.

7. Attend Visa Appointment. The child is taken to the US Embassy to be sworn in as a US citizen! The following day the child's US Visa is ready for pick up. After that, the child can enter the United States!

8. Breathe! Yippee...Cheer...Sing Praise...Shout...Dance...Rejoice! We will be home sweet home with our little boy!

I am hoping to receive an update from our agency next week...praying they tell us steps 2 & 3 can be checked off the list! I will keep you updated as we receive new information. Oh, in case you're wondering if I went completely crazy and overboard after receiving the news last Friday....the answer is YES!! I did some serious power shopping, and I cut off all the tags & washed everything! I can't even tell you how good it felt! (I will post pictures later).

"For you make me glad by Your deed, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands" Psalm 92:4

I was right! My husband was nesting!

2008-01-18T17:19:00.000-06:00

We are OUT!! Mason's case has been approved by PGN! I received the call from our agency this morning, our case was approved on Jan 11th. We are so excited and full of joy! We have prayed for this day...the Lord has heard our prayers and blessed us!

I already know the next question on your mind....When do you get to bring him home? The answer: We have been told to plan on traveling in the next 4-6 weeks. To be honest, I can barely remember the conversation with our agency after hearing our case was approved. Thankfully our caseworker was kind enough to send me an email detailing the next steps! Off the top of my head, next steps are...Birth Certificate, 2nd DNA, passport and then US Embassy gives us an appointment (or "PINK") which is when we can travel.

Thank you all who have supported us in this process, your thoughts and prayers have meant so much to us! I will post new info as I receive it!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5

Thank you, God, for blessing our family!

I think my husband is "nesting"...

2008-01-15T17:56:00.000-06:00

Just to give you a little background info first....I work a traditional work week, weekends off. My husband has 3 days off per week, so we have Sunday's off together. His other 2 days off fall during the week, while I am away at work. I can't tell you how many times I have come home after a day of work to find he has taken it upon himself to "start a project". Now, before you think I am being mean or unappreciative, I am not. I appreciate his energy and motivation, it's just sometimes the actual "idea" is not necessarily something I would have come up with. On a positive note, the man is NOT afraid to clean...GOD BLESS HIM for that!

Now, to finish my story. Last Monday I came home to find our office in complete disarray, a complete mess. He had taken everything out of the desk, closet and file cabinets...stuff was all over the office floor and guest bedroom. He decided it was time to "get organized"....I jokingly told him I thought he was "nesting". He was puzzled by that term, so I had to explain to him that pregnant women often "nest" right before giving birth. Anyway, the office is FINALLY put back together.

Fast forward a few days to his next day off, Sunday. It was time to "organize" the nursery, so we started going through the many piles we have shoved in there over the past few months. Note: this project is still a work in progress). Fast forward again, to today. I came home to find that he had completely pulled everything out of our laundry room...and I mean everything. Guess where he put it all? Yep, in our basement living room. I am not kidding....storage, litter box and all. Guess what he has "plans" to do? Finish the laundry room....sheet rock and tile floors. You know the best part about all of this...he goes back to work tomorrow (Note: it's now after 6pm). ;) HE IS SOOOOO NESTING!! Don't you think?

In all seriousness I write this post to be funny. I really do appreciate his motivation and the fact that he helps so much around the house. It's become a joke between us...I never know what project or home decorating binge he has gone on. I truly hope he is nesting...we want nothing more than to hear Mason is coming home soon.

This was once part of our bsmt LR, more commonly known as the "Poker Room". More junk piled up...
What was once the laundry room...he still doesn't know what to do w/ this stuff! YIKES!
Let's just call this one..."Real men DO housework"!! : )
Please pray that our case receives final approval soon! We are praying confidently and expecting God to answer.

"I have called upon Thee, for Thou will answer me, O God" Psalm 17:6a

Well, Calm and Smiles Alot!

2008-01-08T19:19:00.000-06:00

This is exactly what our health update for January indicates....wonderful news. His weight is up to 13# 12 oz. This past week as been a little crazy, so I'll give you an update. Mason turned 6 months old on January 5th. Can you believe we have already been watching this sweet little boy grow for 6 months? Better yet, can you believe that I haven't had a nervous break-down in the last 6 months??!!

As far as we know our case is still in PGN...this is good news! Please hold us close in prayer...specifically that our case receives approval soon and that we do NOT receive any kick-outs. The "new law" is in effect in Guatemala and things are NOT running smoothly. Cases "in-process" are supposed to be grandfathered in. However if you receive a kick-out now, your case CANNOT be resubmitted to PGN. It's hard to explain and I am just praying it's an issue we don't even have to deal with. Basically if a case gets a KO now, it has to be registered with the Central Registry to continue to be processed. The problem you ask? THERE IS NO CENTRAL REGISTRY! Are you picking up what I am laying down? There are already several cases in this situation....and nobody has the answers yet.

Needless to say I am completely on edge. As for other news... we have officially registered! We took the plunge and registered at Target and Burlington Coat Factory because a couple of dear friends are planning a baby shower for us in Feb. While this is super exciting, it also has me stressed out. I know it probably sounds silly, but the entire time we were registering I found myself letting go and then turning around and guarding myself. In my head I was thinking "what if?" What if we run into major delays and it's months before Mason comes home? I am trying to allow myself just to enjoy this! God has heard our prayers for a child...God has delivered Mason to us with purpose...and I believe it's His plan for Mason to be part of our family.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Welcome 2008...Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T18:05:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe another year has come and gone. We received an email over the weekend from our caseworker, and found out our case was resubmitted to PGN with PA on Nov 13th! I just pray our case continues smoothly and quickly through PGN with no KO's!

2007 will always be a memorable year...for several reasons, but above all it was the year we felt led to adopt and were eventually introduced to our son. Although our introduction has only been through pictures, I feel a bond and love that is strong and real. I can't even begin to describe the way I feel when I receive new pictures of him....my heart is full of joy and torn with ache all in one moment. The ache I feel is unexplainable....I just have this urge to be with him, hold him and never let him go. I trust the day that he will be ours forever will come in His time.

In 2007 I was forever changed. My spiritual maturity has grown and changed in ways that I have never experienced before. In ways that I am so very thankful for. Before we were led to adopt, we were led to attend a new church. Prior to January of 2007 we didn't really have a "home" church as a couple, as we are both still members of our childhood churches. We have now been attending the same church for the past year and both feel "settled". We are grateful and forever changed by the new experience and new people we have met.

I am thankful for the journey we started in 2007 and can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for us in 2008. I pray we will be united with Mason as a forever family very soon. Oh, and speaking of blessings....how about the great families we have met through adoption! A very special family went to visit their daughter at the children's home over Christmas. They were kind enough send us more pictures of Mason. Thanks again King family!

I will end this post by wishing you all a very blessed 2008! If "GIVING MORE" happens to be one of your resolutions for 2008, I would strongly urge you to check out the website for the EN. There are currently 11 children "stuck" in the system because of the changes in Guatemala's adoption laws. These 11 children currently do NOT have forever families waiting on them, as referrals to new families are on hold until the future of the new adoption system is known. Although new referrals are on hold, the lives of the children in need are not on hold....they continue to exist, they continue to need the love, support and safety that the EN can offer. The EN is gracious enough to continue to care for these children, even though their funding has been severely limited. It costs approximately $250 per month to care for one child. Check out the EN website by going to http://www.eaglesnestint.org/ and click on "Adopt-A-Child".

Christmas 2007

2007-12-27T16:40:00.001-06:00

A 4 day weekend, 850 miles and 2 families later....we survived Christmas 2007! We were blessed with a safe and happy holiday, surrounded by family. My only complaint is that it just goes by way too fast. The only thing that could have made the holiday better? Having Mason home, of course!

I would have loved nothing more than to spend Mason's first Christmas with him. It was difficult thinking of him so far away, with no family to spend the holiday with. However, I know he is surrounded by his "family" at the EN. I am sure the EN was a busy place w/ all the children on Christmas day. I am already looking forward to Christmas 2008....when we can celebrate the holidays as a forever family! I have spent the last several weeks daydreaming of old and new family traditions we can share with Mason.

Today I am actually home sick...so I am keeping this short and praying it makes sense (can you say "medicine head"!?) I am posting a few pictures from Christmas. Maosn made out like a bandit!

Merry Christmas to Mason.....

Wow! Where are we going to put all this stuff?

My family....Us, Nana & Papa, My brother & his wife and Big D.

Nana, Papa and Big D...

Matt's family....Granny, all 5 siblings and Papa.

We wish you a safe, happy and blessed New Year. Please continue to pray with us....We pray that we will receive a legal update soon, that Mason will remain healthy & safe, for a short stay in PGN and for the health, safety, protection and peace over Mason's biological mother.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T08:53:00.000-06:00

From our family to yours....We wish you a very blessed Christmas.

Another Dose of "Cuteness"...

2007-12-19T16:26:00.000-06:00

A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling. ~Psalm68:5

Mason's First Christmas Photos...

2007-12-17T12:32:00.000-06:00

We received several photos, so keep checking back, we will post them randomly throughout the month. According to our health report Mason is up to 12# 12oz. He is "happy and content"....which is a blessing! I pray each night for his health and safety and that he is a happy and content baby.

The Vote Is In....

2007-12-16T11:29:00.000-06:00

The Guatemalan Congress did vote on Dec 11th and passed the Ortega Law. I am thankful they did include a provision for in-process cases to continue under the current set of laws. While this is certainly positive news, there still remains some uncertainty.....for example the definition of "in-process", how in-process cases will be registered, etc. At this point, I feel pretty confident that our case is far enough along to be considered in-process.

Overall my reaction is one of relief, I am thrilled to know our case will be allowed to continue after Dec 31, 2007. We continue to pray that our case will be out of PGN by the end of the year, just so we can get this little guy home as soon as possible. We have not received an update for December yet, I am hopeful we will receive updated pictures, a health report and legal update soon. I am getting a little antsy for some news.

I am pleased to tell you that there are 4 EN children that will soon be joining their forever families (at least 4 that I am aware of that is). To read more about their adoption journey, scroll down and in the side bar you will see "Other Families With EN Kiddos". The families I am referring to are: The Turner Family, The Lott Family (#1 & #2 blogs), Waiting For Number 4 and McGuire Family. I just want to say CONGRATULATIONS to these families again...what a blessing they have received, their little ones will soon be home with their forever family.

Each one shall give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

Rockin' Mama

2007-12-10T19:15:00.000-06:00

After months of looking I have finally purchased a diaper bag. I have looked at different bags each time I am in a store and have searched endlessly online. I have even approached complete strangers when their "bag" catches my eye. I have just been so indecisive....that and the fact that everything I have liked so far, is completely out of my budget.

I had in mind exactly what I wanted....something durable, afforable, unique and not too cutesie! I have also hesitated buying any "big" items until we hear for certain if cases are going to be grandfathered in after Dec 31. Well, as soon as I found this bag I knew it was the one. I present to you the "Rockin' Mama" (that is actually the style of the bag)!

The color is "Platnium"...sounds sooo chic! ; )

It's made of a washable & durable polyvinyl. On the back side is a folding changing pad....
The changing pad is super soft and easily cleaned too!

Tomorrow is SUPPOSED to be the vote in Guatemala. Please pray with us tonight and throughout the day tomorrow that a decision will be made and that in-process cases will be allowed to continue and finalize.

It's not our job to "handle" what we've been given, but to turn it and our trust over to God. "For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37