The (Expanded!) Heath Team

Happy Madre's Day, TO ME!

2011-05-08T19:44:00.003-04:00

Every night this past week when I said goodnight to Beto, he would respond by saying "good night, see you on Mother's Day!"I'm so proud to be a mother of the sweetest boys who write thoughtful cards, prepare the best breakfast, and serve me sacrificially. My son's made my first mother's day a day I will never forget! I am a proud Mami & a blessed girl!

Beto had me close my eyes to receive the gift he made for me.

He made the cutest little container made out of wood. He also purchased the materials with his own piggy bank $$!!

The best sons a mami could ask for who are willing to pose in front of a pretty tree with a big smile on their face. I said to them after the 3rd one "Thank you for your patience" and Beto responded "No problem, it's Mother's Day!" How sweet is that?

Our Nation's Capitol

2011-03-27T20:22:00.005-04:00

Although I am no longer in school, my kids are! Therefore, I get to enjoy Spring Break! We just got back from our Washington D.C. road trip! With the 12 hour drive, we took pleasure in a lot of what Our Nation's Capitol has to offer. Not only did we learn a lot, see a lot and walk a lot, we also thoroughly enjoyed our time with my sister-in-law, Andrea! Her new nephews loved her waffles, her card games, her hospitality and the fact that she is bilingual just like them!

2011 Catch up

2011-03-09T20:49:00.006-05:00

Ryan and I celebrated our 7 year anniversary. Beto drew a picture of our wedding day. I received the 3 most beautiful and heart warming V-day cards from the sweetest sons in the world! Rosendo turned 14

Celebrated New Years!

Played Mexican cowboy

Started a growth chart. See how Melios still looks up to me :)

All boys finalized their citizenship process and became citizens of the U.S.A.

Got glassses

Got a new pet fish

Visited Chicago museums

Experienced the Blizzard of 2011

Ate snow out of a bowl with Hershey syrup Melios proclaimed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized!

Our First Christmas Together!

2010-12-30T17:32:00.008-05:00

WOW! What a great Christmas! Us 5 had such a wondeful time with all our family in FL. What a blessing to be a part of such a great family! We took a lot of photos to remember our first Christmas with the boys.

Celebrating Christmas with Honey Grams & Great Grandpa

Bowling for the first time; group photo with Pop Pop, Uncle Gene, Aunt Diane & Cousin Eugene

Disney!

Melios & I with our hoods on...it was COLD!

Heath Fam at Disney

Opening Presents

Aunt Marci & Uncle John

Uncle Josh dressed up as Santa (or is it an Elf?)

Grandma & Grandpa Heath

Aunt Cindy & Uncle Jack

Rosendo & I :)

Pops!

Grampy Jim

Making fresh orange juice

On a bike ride-the day Beto Learned to ride a bike in 30 minutes!

Ry & I :)

Granny Candi & Grampy Jim and us

Gingerbread Tree=Not Easy

2010-12-16T09:00:00.002-05:00

We made our first gingerbread tree last night (my first ever, as well) . It was a fun family project. Why have I not ever heard anyone mention that it isn't easy making a gingerbread tree? It's funny thinking about how when we started the project we all voted on the tree we wanted to decorate from the box it came in. Well, that just did not happen! The icing bag exploded. Maybe the bags are made more for 6 yr olds, and not 15 yr olds. I think Melios was too strong to handle the bag?! Than it just led from one explosion to another and really, in the end, the tree wasn't all that pretty and it DEFINTATELY did not look anything like the picture on the box! But, does it matter? I guess the idea is just to work on a project as a family, create memories, and eat icing. Which, we did! So, was it a sucess? I think so.

Beto & Mami

2010-12-16T08:52:00.002-05:00

I had a real mom moment last Friday. It was my first time chaperoning for a field trip! I was pretty nervous about being in charge of 20 4th graders. But, it was a real blast! It was refreshing seeing Beto in his element, and me out of my comfort zone :) We even square danced together! I wish I had a picture of that!Beto putting our names (and ages) on the frig yesterday morningUs shooting the Nerf Gun at targets

Road Trip to HOME

2010-12-13T13:29:00.005-05:00

The boys and I landed in the U.S.A. Miami/Ft. Lauderdale airport on October 21st from Nicaragua. Ryan made the drive down from Chicago to meet us at the airport. We were thrilled once we found out that our dear friends, The Pals (who live near us), were in Ft Lauderdale that day. The boys enjoyed their first "American" meal at Taco Bell. We spent the following 2 weeks in Florida visiting with family. Then, as we were heading North to go home, we had the joy of spending a few days in Knoxville with great friends . Here are a few pictures to capture our road trip from Ft. Lauderdale to our home in Indiana.

Todd and Pam waiting for us at Taco Bell.

We made the drive from Tennesse to Indiana on my birthday

We visited Dolly Parton in Tennessee! She was at the rest area ready to meet us.

A glimpse of the sky scrapers!

2010-12-13T10:27:00.002-05:00

The Heath family went downtown Chicago for the first time and the boys saw their first sky scrapers up close and personal. We enjoyed the day in the Art Institute and Cultural center downtown in spite of the nasty cold rainy weather. We look forward to taking another trip back when the weather is hotter to see the bean and eat Chicago style pizza!

First Snow!

2010-12-07T14:28:00.006-05:00

We were all so thrilled to wake up Saturday morning to 3 inches of fluffy soft snow with the snow still coming down. The boys have experienced many "firsts" even at their age! We took advantage of the day and went sledding, had snow ball fights, shoveled the walk, and built snowmen. Growing up in Florida, I had never gone sledding like that or built a snowmen. The boys asked me to help them build a snowman and my response was "Well, I can try but I don't know how!" So, it wasn't just a day of firsts for the boys, but for Mami too!In the end, the tall snowmen on the right was named "Papi" and the little one on the left was named "Beto". 4 Days later they are still in our front yard.

On our way to go sledding. The sled was so big it didn't fit in the car, so it was sticking out both back windows.

Mami doesn't have a shovel. But, she does have a husband and 3 sons!

Finally Home!

2010-11-15T14:37:00.003-05:00

November 10th is a day our family will never forget! We celebrated both my birthday, and our arrival home, at last! The boys have been transitioning well into the new place they call "home". It's so refreshing to hear their laughs echoing in the house. I love looking out the window and seeing our boys run around in the front yard, and using the basketball hoop that has lacked use since we moved in. Our friends put welcome banners on our garage door which was a nice touch for the first few days. We were also gifted a scooter, skates and a skateboard. The boys had a fun time experimenting their new toys on our culdesac. It was fun showing off when Melios told me to try to use the roller skates, and I started off by going backwards and spinning around. He was so shocked to see that Mami had some tricks! It's so fun to teach them new things. I loved holding their arms while they experimented with the skates to insure they didn't fall. I so enjoy hearing them say "Mami, watch this!!" I could go on and on. The point is: Life is a joy!
First day of school! Looking so handsome! Skating in the driveway

Giving the basketball hoop some attention

Whoa!

2010-11-04T22:05:00.002-04:00

We had a fun time learning to horseback riding with the boys' cousins; Tyler and Cassidy. All 3 boys were brave enough to get on the horse! They also learned some English in the process; like "Walk" or "WHOA!"

Boat, Fish, Trick or Treat, etc...

2010-10-31T21:11:00.005-04:00

We've had a lot of "First Time...." since we arrived in the U.S. We had fun dressing up and trick or treating. Melios was a Monk, Rosendo a banana, and Beto a Pirate. Rosendo caught a fish while out on the Gulf of Mexico within 5 minutes of casting his line. It was the only fish caught that day and it was 15 inches! Almost big enough for dinner!

Rosendo and Beto with Abuelita

The happy family!

Fishing off the dock at Abuelita and Pop Pop's

Family Vacation is Great

2010-10-29T22:00:00.005-04:00

This picture describes our family perfectly on our family vacation in Fl. When we arrived at Disney on Saturday morning, Oct 23rd, an airplane had drawn this in the sky. We were all so happy to be together in the U.S.A.. The rest of the drawing said "Jesus loves you". I definately feel His love for our family, and all that He has done to bring us together.

Here we are at Disney's Animal Kingdom with Grandma Heath.

My ...ahem...daughters...ahem sons wearing wigs from the gift shops after one of the rides at Disney.
I think Beto does a good job describing how he feels in this picture.

Boys and I waiting to get on a ride.
So happy together!

Look who we ran into.

Bitter Sweet

2010-10-29T21:49:00.002-04:00

Melios, Rosendo, Beto and I left Nicaragua, each with one bag, at 1:30pm on Thursday, October 21st, which was one day after we had received all our final paper work to travel to the U.S.A.! It was a sad time saying "bye" to all our dear friends, and nearly family, in Nicaragua. I cried so much that morning saying "bye" to everyone. I definately felt sad and nervous about leaving my friends and our comfort zone. Yes, Nicaragua became my comfort zone, and my home. After being there 3 1/2 months, we had our way of life there and it worked well for us. The good news is that while I felt sad to leave Nica, I saw that the boys were ready and excited. We had a really good flight, and Ryan was at the airport to meet us when we arrived in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. Here are a few pictures I took to capture a few moments in the airport saying bye to friends.

Final Court Hearing-"We are Family"

2010-10-18T19:38:00.003-04:00

Here are some photos to document our final court hearing on Oct 1st! The judge signing to make it official!

All of us had to sign our names saying we were in agreement with the adoption.

Melios

Rosendo

Beto

Our adoption file w/ so MANY papers! Talk about red tape!

Doing what is necessary...and fun

2010-10-14T19:39:00.002-04:00

We were out of water and it had been raining. After lunch we decided to wash the dishes from the rain water coming from the roof. I washed, Melios rinsed, and the rest of the team dried and put away the dishes inside. Melios had a good attitude and we both got really wet!

No more ¨Expanding¨. We are officially ¨Expanded!¨

2010-10-06T14:05:00.001-04:00

As of 10:00am on 10/1/2010, The judge declared our adoption finalized! Ryan and I are offically parents of 3 God sent sons! I feel like I should be giving you the height and weight of each boy, as this is typical for a birth announcement. However, I don't feel in my body as if I just gave birth to triplets! Though, I do feel like a huge burden has been lifted. This morning we arrived to the court house with the hopes of finalizing this 2 year adoption process, and left as parents of 3 practically teenage boys. Now what? Only God knows and we couldn't be more thrilled to find out! We hope to be traveling back to the states within the next 2-3 weeks. We'll keep you posted as things progress. Thank you for your support, love and prayers. We couldn't be more thankful to have you in our lives. Joslynn

Uncle Josh & Abuelita!

2010-09-24T18:39:00.004-04:00

Great visit from Uncle Josh (my bro) & Abuelita (my mom). Good times had by all! Thanks for supporting us guys! Beto made the comment while my mom was here: "When Abuelita is here, everything is good." So sweet. My brother brought many soccer balls and we all had fun playing soccer. It was funny hearing the boys commenting many times on my brothers muscles.

3 sons, 3 fohawks

2010-09-23T11:29:00.002-04:00

Here in slow moving Nicaragua, getting a haircut is a family activity. It's something to do.

Coco Man

2010-09-11T17:44:00.005-04:00

Not much time to write. We've been w/ out internet for over a week. Big news, boys are staring to call us "Daddy or Papi and Mami". Also, we just finished a major step in adoption process. Judge completed one of 2 sentences. We have one trial left. We should know date of final court hearing within the week.

Our family is learning to work thru conflicts. We have our ups and downs each day. Overall, we are so blessed by these 3 boys. I just could not imagine life without them. Each day brings its challenges and joys and I wouldn't want to give up any of them. We are all looking forward to being together in the states in a matter of weeks. Here are a few pic's to share.

My wanna be ghetto son listening to rap with his "I love Jesus" hat sideways.

Carrying the laundry back (notice Beto in the background)

Getting bananas from down the street. It takes us about 3 days to eat all these bananas.

This boy climbed up a Coco tree with barefeet. It was AMAZING. I have a video of it too. Then, afterwards, we drank from the Coco. Good Nica memory. I was so impressed by this boys' strength.

Proud boy and his "Daddy"

We eat lunch oustide standing up

Good times with Grandma Ruth. It was such a treat having her visit us. She cooked French Toast one morning for the boys. It was their first time trying it. We also went to the beach and rode in a bicycle taxi in the pouring down rain. She deep cleaned my kitchen and was a huge help for each meal. The boys liked scarrying her by making her jump when she least expected it. She also shared with the students at the school a couple times and I had the joy of translating for her.

Trying to capture a good photo with their new haircuts. They all wanted fohawks.

All Smiles

2010-08-28T15:50:00.002-04:00

Boys got souveniers from Grampy Jim & Granny Candi from their Colorado trip last week. They argued over who's animal would win in a fight; the grizzly bear, black bear or buffalo.

Cool Cookies

2010-08-21T14:23:00.004-04:00

Crayola sold special sugar cookie dough around Easter time. I figured it's time we make it. It's really neat. You can add special dye to the dough to change the color of the dough. Also, you can mold the dough to make whatever shape you want. I was surprised on how well it all worked. What surprised me the most was how big the cookies grew! They were huge!

Happy family with cookies!

6 weeks and running...

2010-08-16T20:31:00.003-04:00

I've been in Nicaragua now for 6 weeks. The first half was hard, this second half has been great. The boys and I have officially transitioned to living life together in Nica as a family. I hope it only takes 3 weeks to transition to our life in the States together, wouldn't that be something? We are really getting to know each other. Today we talked about not peeing on the toilet seat and who is the most private in the family. It was funny talking about Hygeine with them.

The other day my friend Jayne and I went into a Catholic Church. The boys decided to wait for us outside. When we came back out to meet them they had big grins on their faces and told me that a guy had come by and gave each of them $1. I guess the guy thought they were homeless. I didn't think their clothes looked THAT bad.

I had a friend come over and help me cut the boys hair. We gave Beto a Mohawk. He looks really cute with it, little tough guy.

Poor guys. They get treated like little kids. I tuck them in at night and give them hugs and kisses. Is 15 too old for that? I say I don't care :)
I thought it would be funny to put Melios' clothes on. This is a shirt I've been talking to him about "donating" when we leave for the states. It isn't one of my favorites, but he really likes it. He jokes with me now that he knows I don't like it. When we leave, he'll put it on to pick on me, then take it off and put on a different shirt. He's a sweet guy.

Here is a picture that I really like of Melios & Leo

Bed Time

2010-08-04T20:52:00.002-04:00

The boys are always the sweetest at bed time. They want to talk about all kinds of things. They want me to tickle them and squeeze them tight. They like to make bracelets and do exercises, too. We read the Bible at night, and pray together. It's a sweet time. It's our family time together, and I love it!

Here's Beto playing with Leito. Sometimes we bring him over and let him play with us.

Leito

2010-07-28T18:58:00.002-04:00

This is Leito, a boy who arrived at the children's home a couple weeks ago due to his bad conditions back at home on the river. His step dad tried to drown him numerous times. He was in the hospital a couple days due to Neumonia two places on his lungs. I've had the pleasure of spending a lot of time with him. He's such a sweet boy and has had such a difficult life. Poor little guy. This boy needs a sponsor. Any takers??

I'm holding him as I write this. He keeps wanting to type something to you guys.

Having a Fun Time

2010-07-27T16:55:00.002-04:00

Here is Melios with a boy, Frankie, in the home who just arrived last week to the children's home because of his conditions with his family. He is so sweet. At first he wouldn't smile, or laugh or cry the first few days he was here. He stayed with me and the boys a couple nights and I wanted him to smile so bad. One night, I looked over at him and he was covering his face. Beto was playing with him. Then, I saw Beto move his hand, and the baby, Frankie, was dying laughing! It was so precious! I started to cry I couldn't believe it! Then we were all trying to make him laugh. Before I knew it, he was smiling, laughing and crying all the time. He totally opened up! The soccer field was very muddy one day, but it didn't stop us from playing! We were so muddy and wet that Rosendo figured he my as well go all the way!

Matt & Ali took us out for ice cream one night

The last few days the boys and I have enjoyed learning English together in the morning, cooking dinner together, laughing over embarrasing stories over lunch, reading the Bible together at night and inbetween coloring, laughing, crying, listening to the radio, singing & dancing and making bracelets. The transition has been fun, a challenge and all well worth it!

Mateo & Ali

2010-07-26T16:18:00.003-04:00

The boys and I so enjoyed 10 days with Matt & Ali! They came to Nica from our local church to meet the boys and to teach them English. Thanks so much for coming guys! It was so refreshing for me to have them here. They were a huge encouragement to me!

Beto found this mask at the market and said it looked just like Matt, so he put it on. So funny!

Tourists

2010-07-19T16:28:00.002-04:00

We've had fun going out and about with different americans visiting Nicaragua. We get to act like Tourists...going to the markets, volcanos, out to eat, etc...

We are enjoying reading Charlotte's Web before bed. We just got to the part where someone told Wilbur they wanted to be his friend but he couldn't see who it was. Then, it was time for bed. What a cliff hanger. Who will be Wilbur's friend? :) They could hardly go to sleep.

They are getting more comfortable asking questions about the states. they are ready to go! They keep saying "Would if they tell us "yes" today?!" I say "Then, we leave tomorrow!"

Pop Pop & Granny Candi

2010-07-14T19:07:00.002-04:00

We had a great time with Pop Pop and Granny Candi this past week. They were kind enough to pay us a visit here in Nicaragua to meet the boys and support me in the final stages of the adoption process. I'm here in Nicaragua until I bring my boys home with me; hopefully end August or the beginning of September. The boys and I are staying in a small apartment 50 feet away from where they have been living. We are enjoying meals, talking and playing together. The transition has been well, a transition. We are getting accostumed to being a family. It's hard work jumping in and being a mom, with out my rock & husband, Ryan. God is giving me the strength to get thru each day and the reminder that living here in Nicaragua without my husband is not forever.

La Playa

2010-06-17T21:46:00.004-04:00

Beto-all smiles

2010-06-16T22:13:00.003-04:00

I guess it's normal for boys to pick up garbage & dead animals on the beach? Here's Beto showing me what he found, yuck!

Up until recently, it was a real challenge to get this kid to smile in a photo. He's so cute when he smiles. We go to take a picture and I say "smile!" and I look at him, and he is looking at me like i just told him to "eat dirt" or something. I found these 2 photos that show what a great smile he has! Maybe he is starting to believe me...

Beach Boys

2010-06-09T22:59:00.005-04:00

Thanks to my parents for the shirts! The boys loved having their names on the back of their shirts. They kept saying "I'm famous!" I took many pictures and couldn't decide which ones to put on here, so I am mostly putting all of them! It really is amazing how well these brothers get along. You can see in these photos how much they really do enjoy, respect & love one another. They are best friends. Enjoy these silly boys...

Little Helpers

2010-06-08T21:53:00.003-04:00

These boys are hard workers! Here is Rosendo handwashing the dishes after our big Mother's Day dinner of 22 people; no complaints, just gets straight to work.

Beto, only 10, washes his own clothes by hand. Here he is cleaning the mop out the old fashioned style

Melios & Ryan worked together one morning, moving this gravel with a wheel barrel to the construction site. Should a kid really have this big smile on his face while working? The next day, Ryan, Papi, complains next day of sore back. I ask "Melios, how is your back today?" He says "fine". Ryan is young, but not THAT young!

Melios trying to scare me with this bug on a stick. Boys will be boys.

Reflecting

2010-06-07T22:58:00.003-04:00

Sometimes it seems like I am more aware & conscious of the times the boys disobey me or disrespect me, instead of all the times they did as I asked them to with a smile on their face. I'm learning I need to see all the good God is doing in our family and to take comfort in what God is teaching all of us. Looking at these pictures with big smiles on their faces reminds me of the joy these boys bring to my life.

These are a few of my favorite photos from when we did an egg toss with the kids after dying eggs.

Melios even diving for the egg!
Beto anticipating

Rosendo with egg in his hair and on his hand!

Taking it all in

2010-05-31T10:57:00.004-04:00

When arriving in Nica in prior trips, we find the boys at the airport, with smiles, but shy and quiet. This arrival was a real blessing; greetings with laughs, hugs & stories. They follow Ryan and I back to our room and we spend hours hanging out and enjoying one another. Ryan and I Reflect after they left, "wow, the boys really took to us". Is being a family always this great? God is answering our prayers!

The boys tell Ryan that his diet coke is bad for him, and puts poison in his body. But, funny how they always order it when we eat out, and never refuse when Ryan offers it to them. Sometimes it doesn't matter what papa does, they do it too (notice drinks in photo). Time to re-evaluate everything.

Wait. Say that again?

2010-05-14T19:47:00.003-04:00

I was called yesterday while at work by my dear friend & primary Nicaragua contact. "Joslynn, Do you have a minute?" "Yes of course" "I got a call today from the government, your adoption has been approved!" "Adoption Approved? Wait. Say that again?"

So, now what? There is a committee that meets and makes decisions on adoptions. They made a decision to approve our adoption! The next step is for the boys to go before this committee and be asked a series of questions. They can't tell us when. Only that it will be soon, and in the month of May. The boys will be called the day before on details for when and where to meet the following day.

Stay tuned! All in all, Ryan and I are very excited and on the edge of our seats waiting as more details come. We had no idea we were this close! What a pleasant surprise! Thanks to everyone for prayers and support as Ryan and I come even closer to becoming a family of 5!!

They did what they said they were going to do!

2010-04-12T20:48:00.001-04:00

The Heath House & all those participating in this adoption are rejoicing because the Government met & interview the boys' family today! This is a step in the process that we have been trying to complete since May 2009. This is a huge success and we are so encouraged by this moving forward! Thank you so much for all your prayers!

You Make Me Smile

2010-04-11T21:25:00.004-04:00

Beto's feet make me smile because they are so dirty. He is always so dirty. I remember him putting his clothes on for church, then 5 minutes later seeing him outside in a pile of dirt that was made for the construction sight next door.

Rosendo was making me smile as he was reading to me out loud. I liked hearing his voice crack.

Melios was making me laugh because he kept making the funniest faces because the guy playing the guitar behind him was singing very loud in his ear. I like that he is smiling as he throws the ball.

I drew these pictures of Melios.

I had a nice time drawing & coloring with the boys. We definately have that in common.

Adoption Update

2010-04-07T20:36:00.003-04:00

Government says they are going to interview boys' family next week. I do believe it is going to happen. However, I'm trying to guard my heart, as I know they've been saying they were going to do this since May 2009. This is the BIGGEST part of the process we have to overcome. Hence we've been trying to overcome it for 1 year.

Time to pray-

1) That the family finds the government on the day the appointment is scheduled. The family has to travel down river, then in a vehicle for 3 hours. The grandparents, brother, sister & aunt agreed to go when I visited them.

2) That the family remains in agreement with the adoption, as they communicated to me when I last visited them. If they so "no", this whole thing is over.

But, I like the name Ross!

2010-03-28T17:12:00.004-04:00

Rosendo is a great name, and I really like it. But, I also like the name Ross. Sometimes it slips when I talk to Rosendo. Just like I call Melios "Meli" with a strong accent over the i & Beto "Betosito" cause he is my little guy. Rosendo doesnt like the name Ross. He says he wants to be called "Rosendo" or "Rose" because of the way the 'o' is pronounced in Spanish. But, he doesn't get it that "Rose" is a girls name AND a flower! So, I think I'll stick to Rosendo until he gives in and lets me call him "Ross". I enjoy my moment's with him. He is considerate and quiet when he needs to be, loud when it's ok, and sweet when I need it.

Firefighter

2010-03-26T22:08:00.003-04:00

Beto says when he grows up he wants to be a Firefighter. When we were at this playground, he was practicing. He was determined to go up and down this pole as many times possible. I don't know, it sort of scares me to think of this little guy running into places of which people are running out. But when he asks me "Do you think I would be a good firefighter?" There is a right answer "yes, of course!"

I find myself day dreaming about the boys throughout the day. What do I think about? Mostly I just picture the 5 of us together doing different things as a family. Sometimes I picture them in the grocery store with me, at my side, pushing the cart, asking me to buy junk food and me giving in. I guess I just look forward to the daily life with them, always having them by my side. Other times, I run back thru coversations I've had with them, and smile or frown as I began to understand them more.

The boys have my cell phone # now. They've figured out how to call us. It's so fun having this 2 way relationship with them. When they call, the first thing they say explains where their mind is. For example, Melios called and right away confessed he had lost his bag of rubberbands for his braces. This was a lot easier to handle than the call I got from Beto. He said "Can I ask you something?" I say "always". He asks "When are you coming back?" I say "Actually we just bought our tickets, we'll be there in about 8 weeks, we can't wait to see you." he responds "So, does that mean that the government told you 'yes'?!" ...poor little guy. I long for that day, more than you know.

You call this a field trip?!

2010-03-20T14:41:00.003-04:00

The boys are being homeschooled in English. We have a teacher going to their house everyday teaching them in English; bible, grammar, US History and math. It's been a lot of work on the kids. But, they are doing well. It seems they understand a lot of English, but have a harder time speaking it. I understand there is a "quiet time" when someone is learning another language. That time can end at different stages for everyone.

The last school day I was there I decided it would be fun to take the kids on a "field trip". The teacher agreed, so we went to a nice lookout point and tried to speak some English. Mostly we enjoyed the nearby playground, eating ice cream, and racing up the mountain range.

I think the boys were a little big for this playground because they were getting dangerously creative!

Melios, if you were here with me, I would tell you that "you have the best smile", even with those metal braces!

Tough Girl

2010-03-17T22:40:00.003-04:00

It's don't know if its a good or bad thing that I grew up with brothers. If it helps me play along, or perhaps gets me into trouble? It makes me think I can take on these boys...when they are already pretty big & tough. I guess I never gave up with my brothers. Will I ever learn?

Soccer Player or Prophet?

2010-03-14T17:43:00.005-04:00

I remember when Melios told me "when I grow up, I will be one of 2 things...a professional soccer player, or a prophet". Neither of them surprised me. After seeing Melios play in a soccer game, I really see his passion in it. It was such a delight to see him smile and laugh while playing. This boy is such a joy. However, I couldn't get him to smile in any photos after his game. He had to act tough with his friends around.

I really see the possibility in the latter of the two options (being a prophet). He is passionate about God's word and exercises his strong convictions in everything. I can't wait to see what God calls him to! Either way, I know I will be glad to be his Mom and support him.

Living

2010-03-09T22:26:00.004-05:00

Here are a few random photos I have of just living the daily life with the kids.

Beto, Rosendo & Melios playing in my room. I always got so excited when I heard a knock on the door! Yay, they've come to play!

Excited about all the things my friend Pam brought for them...carrying their gifts back to their house to dig in. Walking around on the beach for Rosendo's Birthday.

A picture of Melios enjoying the boxing game at the arcade.

The kids making dinner.

Beauty Salon

2010-03-08T19:29:00.006-05:00

Even though my nails now look smeared & chipped, I walk with pride remembering who painted them. The boys volunteered to paint my nails. They each painted 3 nails, then switched. It was funny getting pictures as proof. The other kids in the home joked and said "when you guys get to the states you can open up a beauty salon out of your house." Boys don't usually like hearing that sort of thing, so I can bet they'll never paint my nails again. But, at least I have pictures to remember, and my nails until I decide its time to remove the chipped polish.

I so enjoyed my time with these 3 boys. Someone asked me while in Nicaragua "what do you like about them so much that you would want them as your own?" Really, the truth is, Ryan and I didn't really know much about them when we made our decision. Now, I feel as if I could think MANY reasons I'm so crazy about them. In thinking about it, their smile really rubs off on me. They smile & laugh ALL the time. They are always playing & joking around. They are so full of joy. It truly is contagious.

I mean, really, whats not to like about this guy?

Beto is going thru a weird phase where he doesn't like me taking pictures of him. So, I can sometimes get pictures of half his face. Thats about as good as it gets unless he doesn't know I am taking a picture of him.

The Family-Brother

2010-03-03T11:23:00.003-05:00

Their older brother's name is Alfredo.

Their grandma told me "even though Alfredo's Mom has passed, and you are returning to the U.S. with his brothers, I still feel as if you are a mother to Alfredo". I looked at Alfredo agreeing and he smiled and nodded. I so badly wanted to bring him back with me.

The Family-Grandparents

2010-03-03T10:26:00.002-05:00

I had an amazing time with the grandparents. Even with the language & age barrier, we connected so easily. They had such kind words for me. It was difficult taking it all in. They say that they already consider me like a daughter to them. It was difficult saying goodbye to them yesterday. It was a sweet time though.

I think they are so cute!

The River-Rio Coco

2010-03-02T22:04:00.007-05:00

Birds eye view of the Rio Coco from the planeThe river was so calm early in the morning.

This is the house that the boys were born in and where they lived up until 4 years ago. Charity & Leo after arriving to the village where the boys lived. We found it!

Terrible Great Day

2010-03-01T18:54:00.002-05:00

Today really was one of the toughest days of my life. It felt so long, yet as if I didn't have enough time to complete all the needed items. We were told so many times, "we can't do this today". It will have to be tomorrow afternoon. My response was, "I understand I am asking a lot of you. However, my plane leaves tomorrow morning and I am asking you a great favor that you could help me in completing this paper work today". At first we were told "come back at 11am and we will have it all ready for you". However, when we returned at 11am, we only found out that she had just started typing the documents, and what she had typed was incorrect, so we had to start all over. Then later, at 3pm, I was told that they needed the mother's birth certificate that we did not have. They said they would have to look thru 15 large books of recorded & documented birth certificates from 1997 (guessing thats when the mother got her birth certificate) to try to find hers. They said that they wouldn't have time to do it today. I said "fine, I'll do it, show me how". So, Charity & I looked thru all the unorganized unalphabatized books. It was a miracle when Charity said "Aqui Esta" or "Here she is". We all clapped and I said "We make a good team, don't we?". While looking for the Mom's Birth Certificate. I found the grandmothers. She didn't know that she had one. So we had a copy made for her as well. The mayors office really was surprised by our helping out. Today we also got the grandfather a hair cut. It's amazing how much hair he had. It took off about 15 years when they cut all his hair off. We also took them both to the doctor and bought them some medicine because of some health problems they've been having. During all this, after lunch, I got very sick to my stomach & had a pounding headache and passed out in my hotel room. But, the Lord healed me quickly and I was able to return back to work to get all the needed documents. I woke up and wasn't able to find Leo, Charity or the grandparents. So, I had to look for someone I knew here to ask him if he could call them for me. Then, I found Leo & Charity, but we had lost the grandparents. It was a very hot day and you have to walk everywhere. Overall, we praise God and recognize it was a miracle that we were even able to get one document completed, not to mention 5! God really has given us favor with the people here that we were able to get so much accomplished in 1 day. Tomorrow, I will return to Managua, and the grandparents will return to Wis Wis up river. It will be a sad & happy goodbye.

Accepted

2010-02-28T21:20:00.006-05:00

Yesterday Charity, Leo & I flew into Waspam, Nicaragua. It is on the North East part of the country. Our goal here has been to meet the boys family. The government will be here to meet them in a few weeks. The government will be coming here to interview the boys family to be sure they are in agreement on the adoption. We were rejoicing when we hit the dirt road runway. We were glad that the flight was smooth. So different than our experience when the 4 of us made a similar trip on the same plane in November (but to Puerto Cabezas). I guess the rainy season really can have an affect. Right now is dry season, so we didn't have to overcome any storms.

We arrived with a suitcase full of clothes we gave to their older brother and grandparents. We also gave them a box full of food for about 215 meals to give their family. It includes rice and a nutritional addition with some flavor. Currently, they eat one meal a day.

When we arrived, the owner of the hotel where we are staying (where they have free internet!) waited for us with his pick-up truck. We also have 6 other boxes of food that we are leaving with a pastor here to start a feeding center. Once we arrived at the hotel, our translator, who speaks Miskito & Spanish met us. His name is Pastor Elvis. :) He works for the mayor & is a pastor of a church. He led us up river today to "Wis Wis" where the boys were born and lived up until 4 years ago.

We bought 12 gallons of fuel & 2 liters of oil and found a driver for a boat right away. We left this morning at 7am.

The houses here are mostly made of wood. The locals use bicycles to get around town. I see a lot of similarities in the features of the miskitos here and the boys. I am learning some Miskito in preparation for my time spent with the boys family.

Today we went up river 40 minutes. When we arrived to the village where the boys were born we saw their brother right away. There are only 6 families in this village. He called me and introduced me as "their mother". Its weird, I feel a very strong connection with him. Like we are family by blood. I felt so comfortable with him. He resembles Melios so much. He makes me smile. He speaks a little Spanish. Once I met him, I went with him and the boat driver up river to find his grandparents. Once we stopped at the village on the boat, we had to climb up to reach the village where their family plans their beans and rice. He held my hand while climbing up and introduced me as "their mother". The grandma automatically started crying and gave me a big hug. The grandpa was more reserved and polite. I also met an older sister they have who was very sweet. None of the people spoke Spanish. Looking back, I'm really not sure how I even communicated with them, but I did.

Afterwards, the grandparents, the brother and I went back up river to their house to meet back up with Charity, Leo & Pastor Elvis. This is when we really talked to them about the adoption and had a special moment together. The grandmother said something like "their mother passed on, but the Lord has sent them a new mother". I had the honor of seeing where their mother was buried with the baby who also passed. After we spent this time with them, we went across the river to meet with the elders and formulate some of the documents needed for the adoption. The village clapped for me when we told them about the adoption. I also stepped in a pile of maneur and a lady wiped it off with someones jeans. I was so humbled by their kindness and acceptance of me even though they don't even know me. All I could do is smile.

We road back to town on the boat and had dinner with the grandparents and brother. They came back with us to get some more documents in the city here. They were able to talk to Melios on the phone in Miskito. I was very proud of him that he has kept his Miskito language. They kept saying to him "I am here with your Mom".

Over all, I feel so loved and accepted by this family. I really do hope that Ryan and I can return one day with the boys as a family of 5. This has been an experience I will never forget. I do not deserve this love from them. Afterall, I feel as is if they are already giving me everything they have. I tried to give the family a speech, expressing my gratitude and love for the boys. Isn't this impossible? To thank them for their kids? What do you say? Where do you start? In everything I said I just felt so numb. It really was so emotional, yet I couldn't even cry or really say what i felt for these boys, my sons.

It Continues...

2010-02-27T10:18:00.004-05:00

Right now I write from the airport. My friends; Charity & Leo, and I are leaving in 1 hour to fly in a 12 seater plane to the other side of the country where the boys are from. We will fly into Waspan. Then, in the morning take a motor boat up river 2 hours to find the village where the boys grew up and where their family lives now. I'm excited and nervous about meeting their family. It's definately a trip I would like to have Ryan with. The culture is so different. They don't speak Spanish. Melios has been teaching the Miskito that he still remembers. I could write so much. But, am out of time. Enjoy these pictures. I will be back in Managua on Tuesday.

Free time has been short here in Nicaragua. When I say "free time" Our time is occupied by playing sports, flying kites, drawing, making bracelets, attending many meetings with my lawyer and the government, and time inbetween trying to eat. We've been staying up late, and waking up early. God really has given us favor on the adoption and in giving us the energy we need for the next day.

It really has been refreshing to see the boys smile, laugh, and hold my hand. They are just so sweet and addicting. It's difficult to think about leaving them at the end of the week. Thankfully, I have been gifted one more week here.

You have no idea

2010-01-21T22:42:00.002-05:00

How much I miss these guys.
How often I think of them.
How ready I am to be a family.

Time Well Spent

2010-01-10T22:22:00.002-05:00

We have become quite the regulars at the nearby Turkey Run State Park. We've been there at least 5 times in the last year and a half.

There are mainly 2 reasons that keep me going back for more.

1) The drive. The drive is just perfect. I'm not only talking about the fact its only 2 hours. I'm talking about these windmills. They are so fascinating to me. These larger than large structures spaced our so perfectly with a form without blemish including 3 very perfectly pointed blades. They are just awesome. I like seeing them in the fall...with the corn growing all around them. It was my first time seeing them in the winter with the snow that had never been touched. There are things I like about the drive including the McDonalds at a perfect point in the drive that I am just getting hungry enough before arriving to the State Park with limited food options. I also like that the drive is the same road Ryan and I both grew up off of 1,125 miles away from eachother.

Ok, back to the 2nd reason I can't get enough of this place= the views. When we woke up the next morning to put on our 7 layers of shirts & sweaters, our 2 layers of pants & our 3 pairs of socks, I thought..this is crazy..I bet we will be the only people out there going for a hike in this 5 degree weather. But no, we greeted many people along the trail. They were all there for the same reason as us, the views. I mean, come on, who can get used to seeing this icycles, or half frozen rivers? Its a sight worth seeing. I'm not going to lie. We were cold. But, we were impressed and happy to return to the cabin style lobby to enjoy our hot cup of chocolate and thaw out our frozen feet in front of the fire place.

Here is Ryan testing the ice...how thick is it? or how deep is it?

We passed this restaurant with my name on it. Ok, not my real name, but my name in Spanish. What my dear Mexican friends call me...."Neva".

Christmas in FL

2009-12-31T19:39:00.003-05:00

We had a really nice time catching up with our fam in Tampa & Orlando. Unfortunately, I wasn't very consistent in taking pictures. I only got some from a few events. So, if any fam has pictures they could send me I would really appreciate it.

Here are my bros and Ryan acting crazy.

My new sister, Andrea, and I

You wouldn'd think its December..but it really is. We spent some time outside, which was real treat.

Hi Grandma & Grandpa

2009-12-31T19:33:00.002-05:00

The boys made Christmas cards and this video for our parents for Christmas. I thought it would be nice to share it with you.

I like these guys

2009-12-31T17:58:00.001-05:00

Hanging Out

2009-12-19T22:00:00.002-05:00

Here is a video of us hanging out one night. It was neat just watching the boys and their creative minds work to find ways to entertain. Melios is wearing camoflauge in every article of clothing; pants, shirt & jacket. Ryan asks him why he is wearing that type of clothes; Ryan says "because you are in the military? Because you are hunting? Why?" Melios responds in the video that he is wearing it so that people respect him as being someone in the military. Rosendo is creative to use a bed mattress as wings to fly and Beto enjoys a pile up & being on top. They keep us entertained.

Beach Buriel

2009-12-19T21:40:00.003-05:00

I am claustrophobic. I don't like the idea of feeling trapped in. I've buried people in the sand, and I've watched others be buried in the sand. I've always felt bad for that person. I've always questioned "how can they stand it?" or "how can they breathe?". However, when the boys started piling sand on me, I realized, this isn't so bad. In the process Beto realized I am very ticklish in my feet and that there wasn't anything I could do to stop him (and Ryan sure wasn't stopping him!) from tickling my feet. He also realized I was ticklish in my side, and again I couldn't stop him. He also realized it made me cough when he jumped on my stomach..and again..nothing I could do. So, maybe Beto did me a favor by distracting me with the tickling and the jumping which helped me from realizing I was buried in the sand.

We have an athlete!

2009-12-08T22:03:00.003-05:00

What is cuteness

2009-12-08T21:56:00.004-05:00

...Beto

Rosendo's Sense of Humor

2009-12-08T20:50:00.003-05:00

This guy, Rosendo, has a great sense of humor. He likes making others laugh. The other night we were riding along in the car and he knew all the songs that were being played on the CD. It's funny how kids memorize things so easily, isn't it? Anyway, he kept singing these really high and low pitches on purpose b/c it was making me crack up! Hearing a boy who hasn't hit puberty struggling to sing with a deep voice, while easily hitting the high notes was very amusing to me. It was cute seeing him sing a long with a big grin on his face because of the satisfaction he got out of making someone laugh.

I also like watching him laugh :)

"This is my house" with a deep voice

look I can be a gangsta too

"Don't drink the water" doesn't apply to them

2009-12-06T21:17:00.006-05:00

Our dear friends in Nicaragua offered up their house on the beach for an overnight with the boys. While rinsing off the sand, I got a couple of shots of Beto helping Rosendo "rinse off".

Good looking beach and boys

2009-11-30T22:59:00.006-05:00

Here are a few photos of our time on the beach with the boys.

I love this one of the sunset in the background

The boys are quite artistic and love to draw. Here they are trying to spell my name.
Their drawing of the 5 of us...makes me smile :)

I just like this picture of Beto b/c he looks so small and cute while running his little heart out.

Ryan spending time with Rosendo during the last hour of his last day of school this year.

Playing "pin the tail on the donkey" with "Hello Kitty". Rosendo won!

Melios playing soccer. We are realizing how athletic he is.

Here he is jumping over the wall to get the soccer ball. Off in the distance

Baseball Game

2009-11-28T21:36:00.002-05:00

We took the kids to a Nicaraguan baseball game. It really wasn't very exciting. In fact, the most exciting thing was when the light in the outfield exploded and the game was delayed for 30 minutes until we finally decided to leave. But, atleast I got a few snap shots.

Trampoline

2009-11-25T13:56:00.004-05:00

The kids have a trampoline now

Going well

2009-11-24T23:02:00.002-05:00

We arrived here in Nica Saturday safe and sound in spite of all the rumors of planned rioting here in Managua. Our trip is going well. We are having an especially nice time with the boys and have had some small successes with the adoption. Tomorrow we will leave for an overnight trip with the boys to visit some friends about 3 hours from here. I can´t post any pictures right now because it takes so long to upload the pictures.

Not the better half of November

2009-11-16T22:15:00.005-05:00

I believe the best of November is yet to come--next week in Nicaragua!

Ryan planned a wonderful Birthday for me! We stayed downtown one night and ate the best Chicago Style Pizza from Lou Malnatti's, my favorite.

Went to a college basketball game. Purdue vs IU

Went to Monticello and stayed with some friends, Josh & Michelle, in their lake house.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-04T21:40:00.002-05:00

We bought our tickets! We will be spending Thanksgiving with our Nicaraguan Family this year!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T15:50:00.001-04:00

The pumpkin we carved this year

Got a new sister!

2009-10-25T22:08:00.003-04:00

My brother, Jason, got married yesterday...so happy for them both!

Taste of Tennessee

2009-10-24T15:24:00.002-04:00

Our good good friends, Hughes' & Mann's, from Tennessee came up to visit us last weekend. It was SUCH a refreshing time.

We spent Saturday downtown Chicago

We were walking thru the mall & Saw these guys...we're excited for New Moon!

Cutie Gavin at Lego World

At the bean

Phone

2009-10-24T00:04:00.004-04:00

Ryan talking on the phone with Melios & Beto tonight. Them practicing their English and Ryan practicing his Spanish.

Just the 5 of us

2009-10-17T10:10:00.011-04:00

I found some more pictures that I hadn't gone thru. These are some pictures from the first night we had the boys...just the 5 of us. We had a nice time watching them play and having them all to ourselves. Some great friends of ours let us stay at their vacation house one night on the beach. We got there late & had fun playing inside, then, in the morning playing on the beach before we headed over to the resort for a couple days.

So sweet..drawing hearts...
I caught Beto writing mine & Ryans name in the sand..but he quickly erased it before I could take a picture.

They drew all our names in the sand. You can barely see Ryan's at the end & mine under theirs.

Beto messing with Melios right before bed.

Melios said he was going to sleep in this chair..I found out the next morning he sat in it for 5 minutes before he gave up and realized it wasn't very comfortable.

They found this hat & had a fun time trying it on. Melios borrowed Ryan's miner light & made for a good pirate :)

Except he couldn't stay serious for very long :)

Beto, cute as can be, as always

silly guy playing with the flashlight

Mi Madre

2009-10-17T09:50:00.004-04:00

My Mom came up for a visit from Florida. She was refreshed by our fall weather. We had a nice time together. She made chilli for us using my Grandpa's recipe. It was delicious! We also went downtown and enjoyed the shopping on Michigan Ave & Chicago style pizza.

La Playa

2009-10-08T22:57:00.003-04:00

Here are some shots I got while the kids were playing on the beach at sunset one night.

getting creative with the beach chairs

Telling Time

2009-10-04T20:27:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine gave us some flash cards to help with telling time. I was happy to find out that the boys already knew how to tell time in English. On a side note...notice how long Beto takes to eat a bite size piece of chocolate. Chocolate is so expensive in Nicaragua; therefore, it was a real treat for the kids when we brought some down with us.

Counting Coins

2009-10-03T17:25:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine gave me some fake currency & cards with currency to try to teach the kids our money here. It wasn't a huge success but it was fun hearing the kids trying to pronounce the words "penny, dime, nickel & quarter".

Boogie Boards

2009-10-01T22:13:00.001-04:00

A video of us boogie boarding at the beach last week.

Personality!

2009-09-30T19:06:00.004-04:00

Beto has the cutest facial expressions! Here he is caught on camera wiping the chocolate off his hands with a newspaper.

Miracle after Miracle

2009-09-28T22:39:00.003-04:00

God answered our prayers regarding Puerto Cabezas:

-The case worker who we have been trying to contact for 3 months FINALLY answered her phone on Monday morning (2 days after we arrived to Nicaragua)

-She knew all about our case and wanted to meet us.

-We found favor with our case worker immediately.

-Our case worker seems to work quickly and promised us she would have her part done by Oct 15th.

-The grandparents once again gave their blessing for us to adopt the boys.

-It appears the boys really have NO ONE who can take care of them; therefore, we are a good candidate for adoption.!

-We made it safely in a small plane although there were threats of not making it and/or throwing up

God answered our prayers regarding the boys:

-We bonded well with the boys. It seems we are natually becoming a family.

-The boys want to learn English.

-The boys are well behaved

-The boys love the Lord.

-The boys love one another.

God answered our prayers regarding Ryan & I:

-We are encouraged at what the Lord has done, is doing & what he will do!

-Ryan and I love the boys more and more every day.

-Ryan and I had a very productive trip to Nicaragua inspite of what we were expecting.

-It appears the adoption process really is moving forward!

The beach in Puerto Cabezas:

Breakfast with Charity & Leo in Puerto Cabezas

Charity & I walking the muddy streets in Puerto Cabezas

Me in front of the government building before meeting with our adoption case worker

A view from the 12 seater plane

Ryan & I after we had arrived back to Managua safely from Puerto Cabezas

A typical house in Puerto Cabezas

Charity & Leo on the plane sitting behind us

Ryan & I preparing for take off to Puerto Cabezas! Look how close the pilot is!

So Happy Together

2009-09-27T21:17:00.002-04:00

Our Hearts are glad!

Beto asked Ryan "How do you spell your name" then later Beto gives this note to Ryan with all our names, then in Spanish saying "We Are A Family". So Sweet...

They Love The Water

2009-09-27T20:49:00.004-04:00

Up until 2 years ago the boys had grown up on & lived on the Rio Coco-the river that divides Honduras from Nicaragua. They loved being in the water this weekend. We spent the entire day in the pool & some time Boogie Boarding at the beach.

While at dinner we all argued over who is skinnier..Ryan or Melios. Kind of funny, it was a tie.

First Time

2009-09-27T20:32:00.003-04:00

I don't even know where to begin in posts..so much to say!

We took the boys to an All-Inclusive Resort to get some bonding timing before heading back this morning. They caught on quickly to the "All You Can Eat" concept. They loved having special fruit drinks & stuffing their face all day long. We definately got our $$ worth.

Some first times for them:

Seeing a bath tub
Taking a hot shower
Swimming in a pool
Boogie Boarding
Eating 5 bowls of ice cream in one sitting
Staying the night in a hotel
Eating Popcorn all day long from the pool bar
Air conditioning with a remote control
Enjoying ice from the hotel ice machines--every single time we left and returned to our room!

What a joy! There are so many more things we experienced as a family! We all connected perfectly and really enjoyed each other. I can't wait to get back to them.

Busy but having fun

2009-09-22T10:56:00.006-04:00

We had to run a few errands around downtown yesterday. The kids don't mind riding along b/c they know they will eventually get to eat out at a restaurant.

Poor Rosendo here in the middle while Beto & I battle "bunny ears"

Helping the kids with their homework

I say "ok guys, show me your popsicles" Melios says "but look, I already finished mine!"

Ryan with the girls

Playing on the gate while we waited for the orthodontist..too cute to ask him to stop.

While we waited to buy our plane tickets to fly to Puerto Cabeza...

All the crap we let them eat yesterday while we were on the run

...looking handsome in their new clothes & shoes

Puerto Cabezas

2009-09-21T14:11:00.002-04:00

It's a Miracle! We have an appointment with our adoption case worker tomorrow morning in Puerto Cabezas! Tomorrow we will fly in a small plane from Managua (West Coast) to Puerto Cabezas (East Coast). We will get to experience a little bit of the culture of where the boys are from. Please pray for favor with our case worker! We still have a lot to overcome! We leave tomorrow & will return on Wednesday.

Re-united in Nica

2009-09-21T13:37:00.007-04:00

We made in to Nica Saturday night. It's been a good time over all. We went out to eat Saturday night to enjoy some traditional local food. I can't believe how much these boys eat! They are some growing boys!

Last night we made frozen yogurt popsicle sticks. They didn't freeze in time to eat, so we'll enjoy them tonight after dinner. Rosendo placing the yogurt in the freezer...

Melios preparing the cups...

We brought some pants down for the kids. They tried them all on for us. Melios & I are almost the same size. He keeps saying he is taller than me..but I keep telling him "some day..not yet"

I didn't realize how small my little Beto is. Most of the pants we bought for him were way too big on him. It was nice knowing he is still a little guy..but sad that he couldn't fit into any of the pants. I tried adjusting the inner belt as much as possible..still too big though!

Eating out...

I don't like Roller Coasters

2009-09-15T21:24:00.004-04:00

....especially the emotional ones. Growing up I never wanted to go on Roller coasters. As I got older, I was willing to try them for a reason called "peer pressure". Some of the rides grew on me, while others did not. But one type of Roller coaster that I do try to avoid (if possible, and when I can control it) is the emotional roller coaster.

As of last week, per Nicaraguan government....all adoptions have been placed on hold for an indefinite amount of time. As part of trying to avoid the emotional roller coaster, Ryan & I have decided to move forward with joy & excitement towards our upcoming trip next week. All in all, we will get to see the 3 cutest boys in the world & maybe talk a few people into making an exception for us on our adoption.

Camping with the Hoogs at the Dunes

2009-09-13T18:22:00.004-04:00

We went camping with Bryan & Jayne at Indiana Dunes State Park..great times with great weather...

Catching the sunset on Lake Michigan...

Fun with Guns

2009-09-08T21:08:00.002-04:00

We went camping this weekend with some friends. One of our friends brought some of his "air soft" guns. It was fun aiming at targets, while others had fun aiming at eachother... In spite of this, everyone had a fun & safe weekend.

My buddy Beth & I. Notice the silencer she has on her gun...very important.
realizing how silly we are...

Great News Well Needed!

2009-09-02T22:12:00.003-04:00

God's timing is ALWAYS perfect. At the end of June, the contact for our adoption case in Nicaragua was switched from one side of the country to the other. Our goal has been to meet this new contact. However, we couldn't get anyone to respond to our emails in letting us know the name or phone # of our new contact. After 2 months of not hearing anything on our adoption. We finally have a name & phone # for our new contact on our adoption case. To add, they want to meet us when we go down there in a couple weeks! Ryan and I & our 2 friends in Nicaragua will go in a 10 seater propeller plane to fly to the other side of the country where the boys are from to meet our new case worker!

Too Young To Shave

2009-08-27T09:10:00.002-04:00

We talked to the boys on the phone last night. It was funny to hear about their story in how they found a razor in the bathroom from one of the men staying in the house with them. Beto, said his brother, Rosendo, told him it would be a good idea for Beto to shave his own eyebrows, so he did.

I asked Beto, "What did Rosendo shave?" He shaved his eyebrows as well. When I talked to Rosendo on the phone, he said he only shaved his eyebrows a tiny bit..but all I could hear in the background from Beto was "BASTANTE!...BASTANTE!" meaning..quite a bit or enough to notice.

All of this was funny. But after, I talked to the oldest, Melios. He didn't decide to shave his eyebrows...or his face...or his arm, rather his ENTIRE HEAD! Apparently he shaved it bald! But, he said his hair grows fast and will have plenty of hair before I see him in a couple weeks. I asked him "Is it easier for you to wash your hair while its short" He said yes and then went on and on about how much better everything is with short hair. I responded "So, basicly your life is better with short hair?" Melios said, "yes".

It's funny..I feel the same way Melios does. I love having my hair short. But, I am growing it out anyway. However, I am reconsidering after hearing of how good Melios' life is with really short hair.

Green Thumb

2009-08-21T17:50:00.001-04:00

I grew this cucumber in my garden. It has to be 12-13 inches at least!

Bought our tickets

2009-08-20T17:48:00.000-04:00

We are going to Nica! Sept 19-27

The countdown is on.

Ready

2009-08-07T21:14:00.002-04:00

I'm ready to go back to Nica. I'm ready to squeeze their skinny bodies.

Here is a picture of us on the bus on the way to the beach. Nicaraguan's tolerance for personal space is a little different than that of us here in the U.S.

four-TEEN

2009-08-06T23:19:00.003-04:00

Melios turned 14 a couple weeks ago. WOW!

For his B-day the kids went out for Big Mac's and to see the new Transformers movie. Wish we could have been there...There's always next year :)

Mas Naroa

2009-07-27T23:10:00.003-04:00

Naroa (our spanish exchange student, daughter) has been here for a month..WOW has the time flew! It has been a great experience and we are glad to have had the opportunity.

Here we are hanging out at the house. Naroa lost 2 rings that were very important to her while passing thru a hotel downtown Chicago. The next day I called the hotel to find out that someone had turned them in and would mail them to us. When we received them in the mail, Ryan and I wrapped them in a present for her. She was so excited to have them back!

To thank us, Naroa took us out to a Japanese restaurant. It was her first time and it was fun being a part of her experience.
Last weekend we went to a Chicago Fire Soccer Game. The team gave out 3 autographed soccer balls...WE GOT ONE!

Tailgating before the soccer game

Michael Jackson

2009-07-27T23:00:00.002-04:00

Michael Jackson's childhood home is about 20 minutes from our house. The weekend after his death, we decided to visit. With all the people of mixed generations, classes & colors, there were journalists, t-shirt salesman, boom boxes with M.J playing, stuffed animals, & I love U letters. I'm glad to have been a part.

Family Catch-Up

2009-07-24T22:34:00.005-04:00

Time with the Heath's

Nephew Harry

Niece Harper
Dad Harry, Brother Corky & Nephew Harry

Mom Sally (the B-day girl this day)

Girls weekend w/ Mom in Fl (Thanks Mom--it was a blast, I love my girl time with you!)

Brother Josh--We both have the "Willis" smile

Dad & Candi visited in May-went to Sox game & caught a ball!

At the bean--It was fun being tourists with you guys..come back! We hope its hotter for you next time you come. Now we know..May is too early!

We love our family!!

Naroa

2009-07-13T23:03:00.005-04:00

We have an exchange student from Spain staying with us for the month of July. Her name is Naroa and she is 17. She has been a joy to have in our home. She is very agreeable and great to talk with. We came across some free tickets to the Dollar General 300, a Nascar race. It was a first time for all of us.

Us w/ Naroa, our new teenage daughter

Naroa and her friend, Joana, from Spain