tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83018642588031933262024-02-22T05:56:37.354-05:00Headed To Ethiopia..JANUARY 29th!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-29407771994784834552010-02-10T09:30:00.000-05:002010-02-10T09:30:11.447-05:00Finally an update....Well, I have been back for a few days but figured it was time for an update with more detail and I think I finally have the time. Let me go back to the beginning of the trip......<br />
Friday-Saturday 29th-30th- The flight over was long but pretty uneventful. I was impressed flying from light into dark and then back into light. At the airport we met Simone and her son Jacob and Barbara and her friend JoAnne and once we got there we got through everything pretty quickly and met up with the other families. Delaney earned her keep pretty quickly by finding Barbara's missing bag which was a good thing considering we saw the large cage that held all missing luggage.<br />
There are 2 guest houses in Addis Ababa, one with the infants and one with the older kids. We pulled up to the older kid house and Jen and Dan were supposed to stay there but since they had an infant, I switched with them. Mulat took us in and we unpacked a little....it was about 11:30ish. I had asked him what we should do and he said go see your child! Lunch would be at 1 so we had some time. Delaney and I walked out and we asked one of the nannys and they sent him out. He was shy, smiling and started checking his bag that we brought him with the cars and books and bakugans. Before I knew it, it was time for him to eat and nap. We had the guard walk us over to the other house for our lunch. The neighborhood isn't the greatest so we are not allowed to walk anywhere without an escort.<br />
After his nap time, we went and played with him until around 6:30 which is dinner and then bed time. It was a little slow connecting but didn't take long and we were running around, he was checking things out and kicking the ball....which he loves!<br />
Most of the week went about the same because the kids have very set hours with eating and sleeping. In between those times we played alot of ball, colored and learned about each other. One thing we learned is that Matiyos knew his ABC's and 123's and could also write them and write in Amharic.<br />
Monday was a special day...Matiyos got dressed in his new clothes and shoes (a little small!) and we went to the Embassy for the interview to get his visa. It was a long ride over, mainly because there was an African Conference that had alot of roads closed. Out of our group, we were the 5th called to the window and the interview took about 5 minutes or less and we were told the Visas would be available on Wednesday.<br />
After everything the bus took us back and we dropped off the kids and had lunch. After lunch we went to the mall and shopped there and then to the market where we could bargain our prices. We picked up alot of things there as gifts and after the market, we went to a coffee house....they roasted the beans there! The smell was amazing! After that we stopped at a bookstore and I picked up some books for Matiyos to use at home and help with english.<br />
Tuesday and Wednesday I went on the birth family visit. It was a long drive with 2.5 hours being on a dirt road that was pretty bumpy! The visit itself I will refrain from talking about. In a way, I am still processing it and it is pretty private which I am sure people understand.<br />
Matiyos was very excited to see me when I came back which was nice because it also means that he is attaching. At this point, I had found out that people had been sick after the authentic dinner we had on Monday (forgot to mention but it was GREAT!) Turns out it was a 24 hour bug and it hit me around Thursday night. I slept ALOT but was mostly just nauseated.<br />
Friday, about 2 hours before we left, the airline called to cancel our flight for 24 hours. This was also just as some of us were talking about what American food we wanted when we got back! Saturday night we did make it to the airport and they delayed another hour but finally we got on our way. The flight was good, we all slept the first 6 hours which was nice and then napped during the second 10 hour leg. We landed to 30+ inches of snow from a noreaster that made its way through. Got there about 9:30, had a crab-ass customs guy, waited an hour for luggage which I don't get because the airport was essentially closed. It actually took less time to get through immigration!<br />
As soon as we got out, I went to starbucks...mmmmmm....starbucks. I then promptly spilled in in the car....OY. Took a couple hours longer to get home because of the roads, we stopped at McDonalds which was nice and Matiyos had a cheesburger.<br />
Got home to Mom, Tom and Kim and my Girl Scout sign hanging on the door that the girls had made for him which was really nice! And a birthday cake for me so it was a good birthday!<br />
<br />
Adjusting has been good, yesterday was the dentist and doctor and he did great. Had to have blood and xrays done and start immunizations. He got 3 and today he is a little sick. We are waiting to see how he does because another blizzard is outside with probably 10 inches already....so it isn't like we can take him to the doctor!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-33620616217079733292010-02-03T12:46:00.000-05:002010-02-03T12:46:44.080-05:00At a hotel......We came to the hotel to use the internet and find out about our flights. I am supposed to be leaving on Friday but there is some major snow supposed to happen in Maryland.<br />
<br />
Got back today from the birth family visit. I have decided that once I return I am going to do one long message about the entire trip because there is alot to write. But I will say that it was life changing, heart breaking and amazing all at once. The family meeting was not what I expected but I still don't know what I did expect.<br />
<br />
Off to find out about flights! Wish us luck!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-75532425333732834452010-01-31T23:38:00.000-05:002010-01-31T23:38:32.286-05:00We are here!So we are here in Ethiopia....Matiyos is awesome and SO smart! He<br />
<br />
<br />
knows his ABC's and 123's and can write them as well. The internet<br />
<br />
here is dial up and really slow!. We tried to<br />
<br />
go to the Hilton today but roads were closed due to the African<br />
<br />
Conference.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Matiyos loves hugs! He is very happy and has 2 of his adult teeth<br />
<br />
already! We have spent the last few days playing in between meals and<br />
<br />
napping. Our room is in the same building as his so that is nice<br />
<br />
also.<br />
<br />
Delaney spent today playing with the babies when we were not with<br />
<br />
Matiyos. She told me some day she wants to adopt a baby....that was<br />
<br />
sweet! I definitely want to come back here!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I had more to write but I lost my old message so I will go with this<br />
<br />
for now. Just wanted to let everyone know that everything is great<br />
<br />
here and I will try to update more later. Tomorrow is court and<br />
<br />
Tuesday and Wednesday we will be going to Sidama to meet his family. <br />
<br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ <br />
That was all from yesterday....never got it posted....today is Embassy day, just wanted to post really quick. We are getting ready for the Embassy and then shopping afterwards and tonight is a traditional Ethiopian dinner. <br />
<br />
Thanks for all the good thoughts and prayers...I hear it is supposed to snow this weekend...lets hope it holds off!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-89096797735151899052010-01-29T04:32:00.000-05:002010-01-29T04:32:58.928-05:00Today is the day...Today is the day, YOU have made.<br />
I will rejoice and be glad in it!<br />
<br />
That is part of a song by Lincoln Brewster....I think that is who, it is to early! <br />
<br />
Had a horrible plane dream last night but then Emily called and woke me up so I laughed for awhile, that was nice!<br />
<br />
Just jumping online to pay bills right quick because I forgot to last night! Oops, my bad!<br />
<br />
Less than 24 hours from now and I will meet Matiyos for the first time. I have 200 pounds of donated diapers, wipes, formula and tons of other stuff. I am going to try with my letter from the agency to get them to wave the fees for the extra 2 bags. If not, they will cost 300....hmmm, we will see.<br />
<br />
Prayers today!!! My tummy is in KNOTS!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-11374583507378268592010-01-28T13:04:00.001-05:002010-01-28T13:04:06.959-05:00Testing out the posting from the phone again...<br>Getting my nails done right now....we will call the pedicure therapy to relax me for the upcoming trip,,yeah that works!<br>Had to do some shopping for Delaney today. She waited until we were packing last night to tell me that none of her "normal" clothes fit anymore. Her typical out fit is skinny jeans and a tshirt with her fugs all in weird colors. I told her she had to dress like a girl this week. I should have bought her flowery clothes since she waited until the last minute. <br>Mom and I got almost everything cleaned at home today which was a nice feeling. Still have the rest of the kitchen and dining room which is donation central right now. David will be happy to have it all clean before we leave!<p>Couple more errands, little more packing and lots of love to give Jace and Sky and then we are off!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-21025525385800402322010-01-28T05:28:00.001-05:002010-01-28T05:29:11.232-05:00Almost time to goWow.....This journey is almost coming to a head....5 years ago the day we get back will be the day we decided to adopt while we were in Costa Rica on a mission trip. I think it is fitting that we are travelling when we do....<br />
David woke me before he left and I was wide awake...my stomach is in knots....so much I want to do today but for the moment...yep, the quiet....the calm before the storm. 24 hours from now we will be on our way....I am so excited and so blessed and I need to take a moment to recognize everyone who has made this possible....<br />
<ul><li>First and foremost...God. He brought us on this journey, led us to where we are now and has guided us through everything. I know myself and alot of others are praying this week for a safe trip and some calmed nerves on my part.</li>
<li>Our church who provided us with a grant to help with our adoption. Adoption can be expensive and everything helps.</li>
<li>Our families for being supportive even if they were not sure we are making the right decision.</li>
<li>My mom for coming out here when she doesn't like flying either.</li>
<li>Dorothy, Amy, Megan, Dale and all my friends...wait, that is all my friends at work! LOL They have been my sounding board and talked me out of freaking out probably more times than they know...</li>
<li>My girl scout troup for the surpise cards they gave me the other night and the wonderful donation I can use at the orphanage.</li>
<li>Sky's daycare....I will post pictures...eventually of the donations that they have for us</li>
<li>My work in general...they brought alot of donations and the company donated $250 worth of donations</li>
<li>I have to thank Starbucks and their white mochas and glazed donuts....for the 20 pounds it has added in my A@@ over the last 6 months!</li>
</ul>I know I am missing people....people who I may not talk to on a regular basis, but they have donated in some way to our adoption and I am so thankful for everything we have received and so happy to have made it this far....<br />
<br />
We are coming Matiyos!!!!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-15816962006713176272010-01-27T10:37:00.000-05:002010-01-27T10:37:46.164-05:00Excitement!!I am really getting excited!!! Today I have to pick up mom from the airport and work on cleaning up the house some more. So much to do, so little time. LOVE WILL!! My BFF is on a cruise and we won't see/talk for 2 weeks....never happens with us! He heard about the airplane crash and called from Port Canaveral to make sure I was good. I love him so much, he always knows when I am freaking out!<br />
<br />
Have to run get papers notarized for David who is not travelling and run to Jen's to get the camera before I go get Kim to pick up mom. Somewhere in there I need to run by work and pick up my fantasy football winnings!<br />
Girl Scouts last night was AWESOME! The girls surprised me with cards they had all made and a jar of donations to take with. That was SO thoughtful of everyone and we appreciate it very much. They also made a Welcome Home sign for Matiyos that David will hang up while we are gone. I am bringing all of there cards there to take pictures with so Matiyos knows how much everyone is looking forward to meeting him!<br />
<br />
Gotta run....so little time, so much to do!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-49001055626511390732010-01-26T09:11:00.000-05:002010-01-26T09:11:49.802-05:00Time is running out...Ok, yesterday we decided that me and Delaney would travel and Dave would stay home. Yes, it kind of doesn't make sense since flying is not my thing but I am going because of the "motherly" things I want to have happen. David suggested he stay home and stay with the kids and my madre....hehehehe. Yea, that will be fun to hear about!<br />
I am trying to get everything done...this morning it didn't help that we all slept until 7:40 and Delaney is supposed to leave at 7:50. So we ran around getting everyone ready and somehow, I got everyone to school on time. Ok, I literally pulled up in front of Jace's bus so they wouldn't leave him but oh well!<br />
We have a ton more donations from Sky's school added to the ones from my work and friends and that we have collected! I may have to send some with another family or else pay for all of it to go. We will see...I am still working on packing which has been never ending!<br />
Trying to finish up laundry now....can't leave David with dirty underwear! I have all my permission slips from other parents to take photos done. Now I just need to get the rest packed! <br />
Girl Scout meeting tonight and I need to finish the PTO budget tomorrow, after that it is ALL about the trip AND getting mom from the airport!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-52060672179100227492010-01-25T08:28:00.000-05:002010-01-25T08:28:45.073-05:00AHHHHHH....need help!Ok, so there was a horrible accident with ET airlines. Now, I ALWAYS feel bad when something like this happens but right now I am totally FREAKING out about it. I hate to fly...always have and this is the longest flight I will every go on. Even Dave said this morning maybe we both shouldn't go.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I know God has my time planned and all I can do is use it wisely. I can hope that he wants me to grow old with grandkids but that doesn't mean that is his plan. That being said, I am scared to death of leaving Jace and Sky here with no parents. Not saying anything will happen or that I am afraid my time is up. I am afraid that my babies will not remember me. This is not something new, I have always thought this....it is always exacerbated by airplanes though. ET Airlines has only had 3 accidents in 20 years and from what I read this morning they have excellent safety standards. Am I trying to talk myself into this trip? Maybe. But when David questions wether we should both go, that is cause for concern.<br />
<br />
On top of all of this, I have a lot to do to get ready still...packing, money stuff....everything. I have emailed the travel agency to find out how the credit will work if we don't both go. Ironically, if we don't both go, I will still go with Delaney. Makes no sense but it is a motherly thing. Ofcourse so would staying here be....I don't know what to do....Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-84456895014061406392010-01-19T07:43:00.000-05:002010-01-19T07:43:52.386-05:00Going insane....SO much to do and time is dwindling.... I need to get the kids after school the next 3 days so I was supposed to go in early....today it was not possible because I had nobody to watch Jace so he could get on the bus. I am guessing I will just work late Thursday. I hate to say it, because I do like my second job since I get to yell at people, but I am happy that it is almost over. That job was to get us through the adoption and I think we are good with that now.<br />
<br />
I have no idea what I am missing still....I think I am down to the little things which drive me nuts. I do have a week to finish and in between work, scouts, PTA and conferences at Sky's school.....I am pretty sure there is a good chance that I might possibly get everything almost done! :-)<br />
<br />
I just watched a CNN video about Anderson Cooper helping a boy who had been hit with a cinder block. I cannot imagine what the people of Haiti are going through although it does somewhat remind me of the chaos after Katrina. It is just so sad...<br />
<br />
Well, my mind is racing so I am off to finish getting ready and then Jace and I are going to read a book!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-33790221879178322222010-01-12T05:53:00.000-05:002010-01-12T05:53:18.084-05:00Shhhhhh.......It is 5:45 am. I have been up since 3....went to the gym, made the lunches and even did some dishes so Delaney doesn't have to. I am in the family room....Jace is sleeping on the floor and the girls are upstairs in my bed...yep, that includes Sky who generally can't be more than 5 inches from me without having a hissy fit....I have literally been tip-toeing around down here just to enjoy a few minutes of quiet....ahhhhh. I know I need to get moving but as soon as they wake up, well thats it! A few more minutes of silence won't hurt...I hope.<br />
We have received more donations and people asking what we need.....how blessed can you be? I am, admittedly, not really really close to alot (maybe 3?) people so when people who know me from PTO/PTA/Scouts or whatever and they still offer to help...that is SO awesome. My excitement builds everyday....of course that could be anxiety that I am trying to ignore. I cannot wait until we get there....until then I have list upon list of things that need to be done, letters to schools, instructions to grandma, all the things I would normally do daily to make sure things run smooth. Now, David may question what I do but I am pretty sure if I wasn't here he would survive but the kids wouldn't have lives! :-) I guess that is why he lets me handle everything. As he puts it, and he is right, I have to have a certain amount of control. Ok, let's be real....I have to be in control as much as possible when it comes to this. I get all the little details....David is pretty much...were going, we will be back, life goes on. I don't think he gets the little stuff inbetween or he just likes that I do get it!<br />
<br />
Well, quiet time is over....time to wake the kiddos....no more silence today....Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-29085127979406521382010-01-09T18:43:00.002-05:002010-01-12T07:51:30.529-05:00Tick Tock.....I feel like time will run out and I will never be ready to go. Doesn't help that SOMEONE in this house doesn't help out.....<br />
<br />
Well I, with Delaney's help, got Jaces/Matiyos' room organized today. I hope his clothes fit....I had him about the same size as Jace back in April but if he is bigger......well, Jace will have double the wardrobe and Matiyos will need some new clothes!<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">For now, I believe I can finally post my pictures. The first is a referral picture and then an updated one we recevied about a month or so ago. The last 2 are from Christmas which was January 7th, right after I found out we were travelling!<br />
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</div>Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-75031262906743977582010-01-07T19:42:00.000-05:002010-01-07T19:42:20.571-05:00Travel Date!Today we received 2 special gifts. First, our travel date...we leave January 29th! In the process of booking tickets but we will leave out of Dulles and fly through Rome which I think is cool. Yea, I know, I'm not evening getting off the plane but it is the closest I will have ever been to Italy! Not looking forward to the long flight...TG for Ativan!<br />
Our second gift was new pictures of Matiyos. Today is Christmas in Ethiopia and one of the families that are there now sent pictures to me today. He is so adorable! I will post them soon, probably right before we leave.<br />
<br />
That's all for now....Still have to tell Delaney, she is skiing tonight and has no idea!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-63573445766319383212010-01-05T18:40:00.002-05:002010-01-05T18:40:23.128-05:00Update Day....This time it is worth reading!!!Today is my most memorable day…..<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I had a doctor’s appointment. No biggie, just a problem with the bottom of my foot that has been bugging me for about a month. In the middle of the appointment, he stepped out for a second. I should take this moment to say that he grew up in Ft. Collins and we talk a lot about Colorado and how things have changed so he isn’t a complete stranger! Anyways, I checked my email while he was out and right at the top, first email with the subject: GOOD NEWS FROM ETHIOPIA!!! Yep, we PASSED COURT! I was ecstatic….I ran into the hallway and I saw him and yelled “Hurry up!” He came in and I told him and hugged him….Awkward? Nah…I love my doctor. I was so excited, I made his day, I was crying. Ironically, he had more of a reaction then Dave. I thought it would be nice to stop at his work on my way back to work. His reaction? I don’t remember but we all know Dave has, and yes I told him this along with Delaney, the emotional capability of a tree. We love him but there is never any excitement there…..well, not <em>never!</em><br />
<br />
So, Matiyos Kare Theilman will be home…..soon…..we get our travel dates soon. Either the 29th we leave or sometime in February. I am hoping the 29th!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-62937154724177472342009-12-29T12:13:00.001-05:002009-12-29T12:37:41.265-05:00Update day....againWell, I have heard lots of rumors but we will see how today goes. There was a family who was recentlyin Ethiopia and talked to Dr. Tsegaye who runs the program there and he had said they have everything set up to travel group 90 and 91 is almost done. Hmmm...she was in group 85 or 86 and 87 has been assigned. Maybe this means we will be lucky and get to hear something this week? I hope so....<br />
<br />
In the meantime....here is a short video that we are sending with another family for Matiyos to watch. Sky is a bit goofy, but what else is new?<br />
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Video not working....will try it laterMichelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-69991600186635649842009-12-23T09:14:00.001-05:002009-12-23T09:38:27.254-05:00Memories...No news on court yet....I did hear from someone who had a second court date last week that hers had been cancelled until mid-January along with some other cases. Hopefully this does not mean ours is one of them, but who knows.<br />
<br />
Today I am putting my adoption thoughts out of my mind. Today is a day for other memories. Today is 15 years. Today is the worst day of every year. Sometimes I don't remember today until tomorrow, sometimes it is later in the day that I remember but today I remembered first thing. Every moment, every second, every action....I remember today as the day that changed everything forever. I know if today had not happened, I would not have been blessed with my babies and I would not have known David and I WOULD NOT give any of that back. But today I always wonder what if.... I still remember today like it was yesterday....Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-14067809581172728122009-12-21T09:24:00.000-05:002009-12-21T09:24:02.039-05:00Kind of, sort of update...Well, more people passed court on Wednesday last week, but I think it was only a couple.....odd. We have not passed court...I think I make that pretty clear in every post that we are still waiting.<br />
<br />
I am hoping we will hear something this week....what a wonderful Christmas present that will be! That is pretty much all I have for an update...We did have alot of snow this weekend....21 inches in 24 hours. Kids loved it....Jace and Sky were only outside for about a 1/2 hour so we were all in the house for a day. I think we did a pretty good job at occupying them so that is nice. Got some cleaning done and some rearranging for the donations to go to Ethiopia....still need to get more but we are working on it!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-6000547492634418352009-12-15T15:44:00.000-05:002009-12-15T15:44:24.139-05:00Nope, not yet...7 more families passed court today....that puts us, roughly 9th in line because I know of 2 families who did not pass court this round so that will take a few weeks at least to work out. 9th in line.....want to know the problem with that? Each Embassy appointment is only for about 10 kids....sometimes 12. Basically, it could take 1 person adopting siblings and we would be bumped to the next group. Don't get me wrong, I want everyone to go...but I want to go too! Yea, I whined.....<br />
I want to be able to be home more with the kids....that way certain people can't call me a bad mother for trying to fund a trip around the world and save money to pay my bills while I am off work. Ahhh, if only people could work as a team instead of trying to spell it with an 'I'.<br />
More than anything, I just want to know....I don't need to know the date that we are leaving yet, although I am sure that will soon be my next complaint, but I want to know that leaving is imminent so I can tell my kids and we can get ready for our journey as a family no matter what the dynamics are.<br />
It has only been since April since I started all the paperwork and even though that seems like a short amount of time....I did this once before. Went through almost all of the paperwork and then became pregnant with Skylar. It wears a person down doing all of this. Trying to get in order all the things I have to buy....not to mention having to keep track of people "borrowing" from the 1/2 packed suitcase I already have. Delaney tries to help but it's not like I can send her out to the store and say "buy some laxatives in case we need them over there" She is good at checking off the list though but there is still so much to buy which isn't easy when your also saving for airline tickets.<br />
In alot of ways I feel like I am totally alone in this....just waiting....Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-63371775285965182302009-12-10T12:14:00.000-05:002009-12-10T12:14:28.169-05:00Yea, still waiting....I haven't posted in awhile....probably because there is NOTHING to report. I did talk to my SW yesterday and they expect to hear something soon but she doesn't know if we will hear anything yet. Travel will probably be late January or early February. I don't care when, I just want a date!<br />
So that is all on that topic....just waiting and waiting and waiting.<br />
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Funny Jace story.....We have 2 new kittens and one of them, Midnight, is Jace's favorite. He likes to put him in his new "home" whatever that may be at the time...like the cat carrier, his desk drawer...anywhere he will fit. I was home with him last week helping him and I heard the cat meow. I said, "Jace, where is your kitty?" and he said he was "in his new home." I asked him where, expecting to hear the drawer, bathroom something cute and he innocently said, "The refrigerator". OMG, sure enough, I ran to the kitchen and opened the door and he was sitting next to the milk. Hysterically funny!!!<br />
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Had Delaney's winter concert last night...I can't believe she will be in High School next year!! <br />
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Sky is, well, she is going through the same stuff Jace did so basically one minute you love her and the next minute you wonder if she was switched with someone else at birth!<br />
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This weekend is more Christmas shopping...my brother and his wife moved out here last weekend which I am really happy about! It will be nice to have more adults around to talk to...or any!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-58652213288057652212009-11-30T09:37:00.002-05:002009-11-30T09:45:46.963-05:00A new week....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today is the start of a new week. People are waiting for travel dates, waiting to pass court and waiting for referrals.....I am hoping and praying that this is the week we hear something. It is one of those so close, yet so far away things.<br />
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There is a group in Ethiopia right now picking up their children and hoping to get pictures of others for people who are waiting to go. I hope to get more information on Matiyos when they get back but with so many children there, you never know!<br />
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Thanksgiving was good....See my picture below. Thanks Bonnie for the suggestion...I wonder who thinks up these things?????<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZK-N5sxT5VEtKQg9SBiIJBwNwdZPneKcaZdMdWii7oA3GSzjKk70LGL1BK3qzMkpzc1NsuTJX_E5pyirK-KMyndA9JHOda0Cc1j48MV5KZladelZZ65CqqJxq4KYgHmSdsBPNg9-uv0w/s1600/turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZK-N5sxT5VEtKQg9SBiIJBwNwdZPneKcaZdMdWii7oA3GSzjKk70LGL1BK3qzMkpzc1NsuTJX_E5pyirK-KMyndA9JHOda0Cc1j48MV5KZladelZZ65CqqJxq4KYgHmSdsBPNg9-uv0w/s320/turkey.jpg" yr="true" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MMMM....pretty turkey lady!<br />
</div>Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-57274172507713765882009-11-25T08:53:00.000-05:002009-11-25T08:53:58.193-05:00No news is no newsWe didn't hear anything yesterday which means we won't hear anything until at least Monday. Our agency is closed until then. They deserve the break....if they get 1/2 as many questions as I send them, they are busy!<br />
I'm ready for Turkey day. I'm excited that we will be home relaxing and doing nothing. I say that now...let's see how tomorrow goes! I do have an excellent turkey recipe from Bonnie that could be interesting....lemons and all! I will have to post a picture if that works out..<br />
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Have a Happy Thanksgiving!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-68311281099868540582009-11-24T11:53:00.000-05:002009-11-24T11:53:05.313-05:00ThanksgivingWell Thanksgiving is this week and we all have so much to be thankful for! I am thankful for my family first and foremost. I am thankful that we have been blessed with our children and our precious Matiyos who will be home soon. I am thankful that even though Jace and Sky go nuts at least once a day to drive someone up the wall, they are perfectly healthy, smart and oh so adorable. I am thankful that Delaney is so independent capable, smart and beautiful even though her dad teases her constantly I am thankful she knows how loved she is. I am thankful for my husband. Through good and bad we have made it thus far and I love him more than anything. I am thankful my brother is moving out here, it will be good to have more family around. I am thankful for my parents support in everything we do. <br />
I am just friggin thankful for so much and I could go on and on..... <br />
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Adoption news....<br />
There are roughly 18 families ahead of us now waiting to pass court. Of course in reality, this means nothing because IDK how they process paperwork but I do know that currently there are only 35 families waiting to pass court. I am hoping they have more pass this week but we will see. Here is my logic: It is my friend Dorothy's bday today so what better present to give her then tell her we passed? Or, for tomorrow if we passed, what an excellent Thanksgiving gift to give our families and friends that we passed. Trust me, I can find a reason each day as to why it would be a good day to pass court!<br />
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In our updated photo, Matiyos' shoulder looked a little odd. I did find out that he didn't hurt it, it is probably how he is standing. Of course my mother pointed out that it could be from malnutrition as well. That sucks...I can't wait for him to be here....<br />
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I mailed off the Visa applications today so hopefully I will have those back in a week or so. DAVID BRING HOME THE I864!!! IDK how many times I have asked but SERIOUSLY? Still working on donations for the orphanage....need formula and diapers mostly. David said he would ask people at work and we have a box at my office also.<br />
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Have an amazingly HAPPY THANKSGIVING!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-69011253371471341562009-11-20T11:33:00.000-05:002009-11-20T11:33:45.381-05:00More good news!We received an updated photo of Matiyos yesterday. I can't post it because nothing is finalized but he looks good. Got another email from the case manager today saying it is <em>possible</em> that he is at Horizon House which, from everything I have heard, is where the kids go after they have passed court as that is where we will stay when we go. 17 kids passed court the other day which I believe was 14 families give or take. There is probably a <em>slim</em> chance that we could hear more today. I hope so and I hope I hear something. It is soooooo close and I am going nuts.<br />
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Better news....Delaney is going to the fall dance tonight. I can't believe she is big enough to wear my shoes. Yesterday she wore my suede knee high boots that have heels. She looks so grown up! I am excited to see her in her dress tonight. She had drama with her dad last night...I had to intervene. Although I hate the "I can't stand daddy" mode she's in now, I do know it is a precursor to "I can't stand mommy" phase. You would think I would stay out of the daddy phase knowing my own is coming up! Ah well, he doesn't understand girls and their dances!<br />
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I went to Sky's Turkey day party yesterday at daycare and she had an extremely wild moment where I was like "did you really come out of me?" Drove me nuts but we are working with Jace and Sky right now....they kind of react off of each other at home, which I knew, I just didn't know she was carrying it to school so now the strict mean mommy is here so rather than give into her last night I got to listen to her scream for 30 minutes. Breaks my heart but I'd rather that then her misbehaving at school!<br />
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That's about it for now....I did just get another message from another AP that if he really is at Horizon House, he has passed court! Fingers crossed and lots of prayers!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-24960793529591570452009-11-15T12:53:00.000-05:002009-11-15T12:53:56.085-05:00So ready...But I still need to relax!Friday did not, to my knowledge bring any new families passing court. We do know that the first 2 groups that passed will leave November 27th and December 4th. That is awesome and I am so excited for them! I absolutely am ready to go. I have all of Matiyos' things packed and alot of the stuff on the list packed. Delaney and I received our yellow fever shots yesterday. She also had to get her HepA shot. The YF actually hurts when they do it so she had that one first. After that we pretty much had to grab her and hold her. I think she was trying to find a way out of it.<br />
As usual I am anxiously waiting news...hopefully soon. It drives me nuts waiting. Delaney had a cookie booth today in Westminster so while she is at that I am getting caught up on work stuff, adoption stuff, and stuff for my girl scout troop. I am doing it at Starbucks...trying to relax a little. LOVE Dave for keeping the other 2 at home! He does alot with them lately since I am working the 2 jobs plus helping at school and girl scouts. I appreciate everything he does and I am sure that there are many nights he is standing over me while I sleep trying to decide if he should strangle me. :-)<br />
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Off to finish getting caught up! Let's hope for lots of good news this week!Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8301864258803193326.post-6780961502749999582009-11-12T13:28:00.000-05:002009-11-12T13:28:15.018-05:00Sad newsWe received an email from the adoption agency today. 2 little girls, and infant and toddler, died. The infant passed away from malnutrition and the 2 year old toddler from bacterial menengitis. They were both at the same orphanage as Matiyos which is in Ajuja but everyone there has been tested and is not showing any signs of menengitis. I am not sure if Matiyos is still there or if he has already been moved to Addis Ababa but I am waiting to hear from our case worker to find out.<br />
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I am torn between being thankful and being sad. I can't imagine any child in this world having to starve or to watch their parents pass away and have nobody. At the same time, the first thing I thought of was Matiyos and if he was ok. I have not even met him, but he is already a part of our family.<br />
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Hug your kids, love your family and do it like it was the last time.....Michelle Theilmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10552021493136050306noreply@blogger.com0