Hi Everyone!First we want to thank you all for your prayers and support in the past 6 months through this wonderful but crazy journey we have been on. God was faithful in providing just what we needed to do everything that needed to be done to get Kristina to the United States, but we still have to finish paying for her adoption expenses. We were blessed by a Christian friend who was willing to wait for his payments and the payments to his staff of which he covered in order to bring Kristina to safety. Now, since we have taken a month to settle in as a family, we need to focus on paying these expenses as quickly as possible. It is very hard to fund raise after bringing home your adopted child, but I am praying people will still understand that we need to continue with our efforts to raise funds. Also, if you would join us in prayer, that the Lord will continue to show us His plan for these expenses being covered, either by donations or work, we are ready to do whatever we can.
We thought our total was going to be $3500.00 left to raise, and hoped to have a yard sale and sell our hot tub to cover it. Today we found out that the form for the reimbursement grant we were told we qualified for through UPS, and took time to submit for an additional $3500.00 was only for supervisors, not employees. So, now we need to raise $7000.00 to complete this adoption. We believe our God is big and can move mountains and will continue to show us how to finish this strong and give Him all the glory. So we are again humbling ourselves and letting everyone know the need. Our hot tub is now being reduced to $3000, so if you know anyone who might want one, please send them our way. Please share all our information with anyone you wish.
So . . . to start with, we are collecting as many items as we can for a yard sale. I am not sure of the date yet, but I believe it will be early September. We made $2000 on our other yard sale, so now we will see what we can do for this one in Carmel. I have another idea that came to mind, but need to run it by my friend. If you have any Godly inspirations, please don't hesitate to let us know.
PS: Just a side note, Kristina is in need of immediate oral surgery for infections and tooth issues from years of neglect. She goes in on Thursday for her first one, removing 5 teeth. Please keep her in your prayers about this for the next month or so. It will be a long process and it can't wait. Thanks.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
It has been one week . . .
Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at 4:56am (posted on facebook)
Wow, it has been a week, and sometimes it feels like we just arrived, and other times I can't wait to get out of here. We have had so many experiences that you can't fully put into words. We have been told we have no water for the next two days, and yet, the water still runs? Not sure what is up. Really want my home shower right now. Jon took photo's of the "squatty potties" and he has used them, I have not! Avoided in any way possible. ;0) We have eaten the same food for a week now. We are running out of things to give kids at the orphanage. We were invited to a school down the road from the orphanage, a dance school, for a performance last night at 5:00. We took some video and photo's. It was really special. We were taken up to the front row to sit, which made us feel funny, since all their parents were there to watch them. After it was over, I had a woman come up and ask me where I was from. She was very pleasant. I told her Maine, and she said she had visited Florida. Her English was pretty good. She was very welcoming, which we don't experience often, so it is nice. After this beautiful dance concert, we took Kristina and four friends back to hotel restaurant to have dinner together. That was an experience! We had fun and they finished their ice cream and headed back at 9:15. Right now Jon is at the open market with friends, trying to find a special cooking pot we want to take home with us. The pollen is terrible here and it is giving me a run for my money. Claritin D is not doing the trick, so I am staying in a little extra today. We have not had any luck changing our tickets to come home early, so looks like June 5. ;0( Will admit very upset and disappointed for a few hours, but will make the best of it. Just frustrated that airlines are so willing to take advantage of people, when they clearly have room in the same class seats we booked before, but want to say it is a higher class and therefore it will be $2000 more each ticket above what we already paid. Frustrating! We will use this time to do what we can to bless others and teach Kristina English. Please keep us in your prayers. Court day is Friday at 1:00. This can be intense questioning, so really want the Lord with us and working and answering through us. We pray for His will to be done, so if for any reason He didn't bring us here to bring Kristina home . . . we pray that is clear as well. I don't believe at this time or see other options for her life, but only God knows all this. Please keep praying her papers don't take months after we leave, but are processed in God's speed. ;0)
Love you all! Linda and Jon
Wow, it has been a week, and sometimes it feels like we just arrived, and other times I can't wait to get out of here. We have had so many experiences that you can't fully put into words. We have been told we have no water for the next two days, and yet, the water still runs? Not sure what is up. Really want my home shower right now. Jon took photo's of the "squatty potties" and he has used them, I have not! Avoided in any way possible. ;0) We have eaten the same food for a week now. We are running out of things to give kids at the orphanage. We were invited to a school down the road from the orphanage, a dance school, for a performance last night at 5:00. We took some video and photo's. It was really special. We were taken up to the front row to sit, which made us feel funny, since all their parents were there to watch them. After it was over, I had a woman come up and ask me where I was from. She was very pleasant. I told her Maine, and she said she had visited Florida. Her English was pretty good. She was very welcoming, which we don't experience often, so it is nice. After this beautiful dance concert, we took Kristina and four friends back to hotel restaurant to have dinner together. That was an experience! We had fun and they finished their ice cream and headed back at 9:15. Right now Jon is at the open market with friends, trying to find a special cooking pot we want to take home with us. The pollen is terrible here and it is giving me a run for my money. Claritin D is not doing the trick, so I am staying in a little extra today. We have not had any luck changing our tickets to come home early, so looks like June 5. ;0( Will admit very upset and disappointed for a few hours, but will make the best of it. Just frustrated that airlines are so willing to take advantage of people, when they clearly have room in the same class seats we booked before, but want to say it is a higher class and therefore it will be $2000 more each ticket above what we already paid. Frustrating! We will use this time to do what we can to bless others and teach Kristina English. Please keep us in your prayers. Court day is Friday at 1:00. This can be intense questioning, so really want the Lord with us and working and answering through us. We pray for His will to be done, so if for any reason He didn't bring us here to bring Kristina home . . . we pray that is clear as well. I don't believe at this time or see other options for her life, but only God knows all this. Please keep praying her papers don't take months after we leave, but are processed in God's speed. ;0)
Love you all! Linda and Jon
DAY 3 . . . Dedicated to Liz!
Friday, May 21, 2010 at 5:01pm (posted on facebook)
Well, we could not have begun to guess what God had in store for us today. We got to the orphanage at 11:45, went into the "special room" and Kristina was not there. We talked a few minutes, and then in the door comes Kristina, with a woman. The moment I looked up, I instantly knew who it was, it was her biological mother. I couldn't believe it. Kristina could not wait to introduce us. There was not facilitator or translator present, so it was very difficult to communicate. We called our facilitator who was at court, and she came running over. This visit was not scheduled in any way and would not have happened if others had known. Jon and I had prayed for information and wished we could have some contact. Kristina and her mom talked and hugged and cried together. Kristina gave her some photos and we exchanged addresses. Her mom is ill, and is not able to care for Kristina. It gave her such peace to meet us and to see our family photos. She gave us her blessing and we felt Gods presence the entire time. Both Jon and I were at complete peace with this meeting and everyone around us was totally FREAKING OUT!!!! As most of you know, we have been being prepared for this over the years, so it was all OK, and a complete blessing to us and Kristina and her birth mother. PRAISE GOD! So, even though that can't begin to explain our day, we also got to spend time giving gifts to the orphans today. Beautiful children, beautiful spirits. Longing eyes, needing lots of hugs. We will be coming back, as we found out today that papers for her will not be quick enough for one trip. It is OK. We hope our church and friends will rally around these kids and help us bring back more clothing and items to bless them. They are in real need! Your small gifts are like a million dollars to them. A simple glow bracelet, was in huge demand and the excitement was overwhelming. Got to go to bed. We head to Kirovograd in the AM to purchase shoes for as many as we can.
God bless and thanks for all the prayers.
Love, Jon and Linda
Well, we could not have begun to guess what God had in store for us today. We got to the orphanage at 11:45, went into the "special room" and Kristina was not there. We talked a few minutes, and then in the door comes Kristina, with a woman. The moment I looked up, I instantly knew who it was, it was her biological mother. I couldn't believe it. Kristina could not wait to introduce us. There was not facilitator or translator present, so it was very difficult to communicate. We called our facilitator who was at court, and she came running over. This visit was not scheduled in any way and would not have happened if others had known. Jon and I had prayed for information and wished we could have some contact. Kristina and her mom talked and hugged and cried together. Kristina gave her some photos and we exchanged addresses. Her mom is ill, and is not able to care for Kristina. It gave her such peace to meet us and to see our family photos. She gave us her blessing and we felt Gods presence the entire time. Both Jon and I were at complete peace with this meeting and everyone around us was totally FREAKING OUT!!!! As most of you know, we have been being prepared for this over the years, so it was all OK, and a complete blessing to us and Kristina and her birth mother. PRAISE GOD! So, even though that can't begin to explain our day, we also got to spend time giving gifts to the orphans today. Beautiful children, beautiful spirits. Longing eyes, needing lots of hugs. We will be coming back, as we found out today that papers for her will not be quick enough for one trip. It is OK. We hope our church and friends will rally around these kids and help us bring back more clothing and items to bless them. They are in real need! Your small gifts are like a million dollars to them. A simple glow bracelet, was in huge demand and the excitement was overwhelming. Got to go to bed. We head to Kirovograd in the AM to purchase shoes for as many as we can.
God bless and thanks for all the prayers.
Love, Jon and Linda
DAY TWO WITH KRISTINA!
Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 3:59pm (posted on facebook)
Today is Thursday, and we slept in!!!! First time Jon and I have slept well since last Friday when we left. We couldn't go to the orphanage until 11:30 today because the kids had appointments for medical checks. Once the driver picked us up and dropped us off, Jon and I went to the side of the building and began to go up the walkway to the front when out of no where came Kristina, running, arms open saying "Mama, Mama, Papa!" big hugs and then took us with her to the room our friends were in with their new son. We spent until 3:00 there, finished last documents for court, and then were brought back to the hotel . . . WITH KRISTINA! She got to spend from that time until 8:30 tonight with us. We all had lunch and dinner in the restaurant, we played her favorite sport in the room . . . volleyball, with a punching balloon. I used to do that with preschool, so thought we would bring them and give it a try. She loved it. I have video of it to post tomorrow if the computer if free long enough to download. She helped put together gift bags for people at the orphanage, and she modeled all her new clothes and made me take photos of it. ;0) She had me braid her hair and just had an amazing day together. She speaks more and more English all the time, and isn't afraid to try or make mistakes. We got our court date of May 28th, next Friday. She will be ours and then we need to pray for the fast papers to get her home. She needs new birth Cert. from birth country. It sounds like we are going to Kirovograd this weekend to buy the new shoes for the orphanage with the kids. Tomorrow we get to pick them up at 11:30 as well. Hope you will enjoy photo's if I ever get them up. I am paniccing every time she uses the camera. Got to go, write again when I can.
All our love,Jon and Linda
Today is Thursday, and we slept in!!!! First time Jon and I have slept well since last Friday when we left. We couldn't go to the orphanage until 11:30 today because the kids had appointments for medical checks. Once the driver picked us up and dropped us off, Jon and I went to the side of the building and began to go up the walkway to the front when out of no where came Kristina, running, arms open saying "Mama, Mama, Papa!" big hugs and then took us with her to the room our friends were in with their new son. We spent until 3:00 there, finished last documents for court, and then were brought back to the hotel . . . WITH KRISTINA! She got to spend from that time until 8:30 tonight with us. We all had lunch and dinner in the restaurant, we played her favorite sport in the room . . . volleyball, with a punching balloon. I used to do that with preschool, so thought we would bring them and give it a try. She loved it. I have video of it to post tomorrow if the computer if free long enough to download. She helped put together gift bags for people at the orphanage, and she modeled all her new clothes and made me take photos of it. ;0) She had me braid her hair and just had an amazing day together. She speaks more and more English all the time, and isn't afraid to try or make mistakes. We got our court date of May 28th, next Friday. She will be ours and then we need to pray for the fast papers to get her home. She needs new birth Cert. from birth country. It sounds like we are going to Kirovograd this weekend to buy the new shoes for the orphanage with the kids. Tomorrow we get to pick them up at 11:30 as well. Hope you will enjoy photo's if I ever get them up. I am paniccing every time she uses the camera. Got to go, write again when I can.
All our love,Jon and Linda
MEETING KRISTINA ANNE GOODNESS!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 3:28pm (posted on facebook from Ukraine)
Hello everyone, typing errors likely because I have short time to post. Today was an incredible day! I will leave out all the crazy details, but thank you for being on your knees praying. Please keep it up, and add that we want to bring her home this trip. So many things that usually take days to complete, all happened today. People are working together in ways that blow our minds. God is so good. We were to go to first meeting at 8:00 this morning, but orphanage director picked us up at hotel and took us to orphanage first. We were to take gifts and drop off from someone else, but little did we know, the director wanted us to have a few minutes with Kristina before the paper chase was on. The social worker asked Jon to carry bags up to his office with him. He was talking Ukrainian and Jon had no idea what he was saying except he repeated Kristina several times. The next thing he knows, a line of kids were going by and the man mentioned something with her name and then Kristina came into the hallway. Jon said she looked, big smile, two slow steps and then ran to him and gave him a big tight hug. He had tears in his eyes telling me. He asked her if she was ready to see "Mama Linda" and she shook her head and took his hand and they came down to the office I was in. Same thing, tight, tight hug, big smiles, and grabs our hands wherever we go. After the paper chase, we were able to spend hours with her today. Took lots of photo's and videos with her today, and then she took the camera and deleted our entire trip! ;0) First teenage moment of many I am sure. lol. We will have to play catch up tomorrow. Food is OK, some very good. Learning how to speak in Ukraine to all the kids in the orphanage. Miss all of you, especially the kids, but know they are going to love their new sister. Mom, Kristina chose to take on yours and my middle name. ;0) She has a sweet spirit you will love. David, it is crazy how many things you both have in common. Matt, she is hoping big brother is going to teach her music. She said she is not good.Naomi, she is waiting to dance with you. She is young acting, around 13-14 and would be a sophomore in Sept. She wants many new friends, and is worried about that and learning English, but wants to leave NOW for our home. Please continue to pray for good communications and working relationships among all officials involved. Can't get into details, but some really amazing paper work details were accomplished today and we are still holding out hope that she might come home with us. God can make anything happen. Love you all and will post new photo's if I can tomorrow.
Hello everyone, typing errors likely because I have short time to post. Today was an incredible day! I will leave out all the crazy details, but thank you for being on your knees praying. Please keep it up, and add that we want to bring her home this trip. So many things that usually take days to complete, all happened today. People are working together in ways that blow our minds. God is so good. We were to go to first meeting at 8:00 this morning, but orphanage director picked us up at hotel and took us to orphanage first. We were to take gifts and drop off from someone else, but little did we know, the director wanted us to have a few minutes with Kristina before the paper chase was on. The social worker asked Jon to carry bags up to his office with him. He was talking Ukrainian and Jon had no idea what he was saying except he repeated Kristina several times. The next thing he knows, a line of kids were going by and the man mentioned something with her name and then Kristina came into the hallway. Jon said she looked, big smile, two slow steps and then ran to him and gave him a big tight hug. He had tears in his eyes telling me. He asked her if she was ready to see "Mama Linda" and she shook her head and took his hand and they came down to the office I was in. Same thing, tight, tight hug, big smiles, and grabs our hands wherever we go. After the paper chase, we were able to spend hours with her today. Took lots of photo's and videos with her today, and then she took the camera and deleted our entire trip! ;0) First teenage moment of many I am sure. lol. We will have to play catch up tomorrow. Food is OK, some very good. Learning how to speak in Ukraine to all the kids in the orphanage. Miss all of you, especially the kids, but know they are going to love their new sister. Mom, Kristina chose to take on yours and my middle name. ;0) She has a sweet spirit you will love. David, it is crazy how many things you both have in common. Matt, she is hoping big brother is going to teach her music. She said she is not good.Naomi, she is waiting to dance with you. She is young acting, around 13-14 and would be a sophomore in Sept. She wants many new friends, and is worried about that and learning English, but wants to leave NOW for our home. Please continue to pray for good communications and working relationships among all officials involved. Can't get into details, but some really amazing paper work details were accomplished today and we are still holding out hope that she might come home with us. God can make anything happen. Love you all and will post new photo's if I can tomorrow.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
HOME AT LAST!!!!!!!
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD!!! There just are not words to describe what it is like when God picks up a child, places them on your heart, and then delivers them into your family in six months time. Never could we dream a story like this, but we do give God the credit for making it come true. I think I will just post photo's for you to enjoy. I think they tell the story better than words do.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
NOT EASY . . . BUT AWESOME!!!
Today, I found myself reading Matthew 7, and reflecting on what it says.
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'
Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. and great was its fall."
And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
I guess as I was reflecting on the times when we believed we were to take a step out in faith, because it was what we knew God wanted us to do, it has not been "easy" and sometimes a bit "scary" but we knew we could weather the storm because He was with us. Every time we do, He teaches us so many things about Him and about ourselves. I hope I will always remember His words, "but he who DOES the will of My Father in heaven." I want those words to be more powerful than any selfish feelings I might have. He has shown us over and over again, that a house built on Him the Rock, will be able to withstand the rain and storms when they happen. And did you notice it didn't say "if" but clearly stated they would come. I believe we are to expect them. It also made me think of what it feels like to go outside after a storm has passed by. The air seems refreshed, sometimes the yard is a mess and needs a little rearranging, but it usually leads to a cleaner yard. We pick up and throw out the things that came down during the storm, or repair the week things. I think we do that in our lives as well. We find the weaknesses or the parts in our busy lives that really are not productive or useful, and those need to go to the way side during a trial. You may find they need to leave your priority list all together. Today, I am thankful for our Rock!
This has been a tough week, but exciting week. Jon and David are in Ukraine, they signed Kristina out of the orphanage for good on Monday, and went to get her passport. All went well, and they headed for Kiev, for their Embassy appointment the next day. My grandmother (almost 92) was found in her home with a broken hip. She had been there for a few days before she was found. Praise God, she did well having surgery and is recovering now. Jon lost an envelope of money, which was a little stressful, but thanks for all the prayers, he found it when they got to Kiev and could thoroughly go through the luggage. They went to the Embassy on Tuesday, went to get her medical exam done and were done for Tuesday. They said it is really hot there. Today, Wednesday, they should already be at the Embassy right now, finishing her visa process, and leaving with it in hand any minute now. They plan to do some sight seeing around Kiev today and tomorrow. They get on a plane Friday at 5:30 AM to head home. WE cannot wait to meet them in Boston! This has been an incredible journey beyond words. We did not plan to adopt a 16 year old girl, but God said to us, "My plans are better than your plans." We needed to trust in Him, and David is having the best time with his new sister right now. He is so happy and says she is great! She even wrestles with him and puts him in a head lock. Jon and I both felt like she was already part of our family. God knits families together in such different ways than society does. I pray, if God has ever tugged on your heart regarding someone in need of the love of Christ, and you can be used to share it, consider, pray and take a step of faith. Who knows where it will lead? He won't leave you, you will have storms, but if you keep your eyes on Him, you can't go wrong.
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'
Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. and great was its fall."
And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
I guess as I was reflecting on the times when we believed we were to take a step out in faith, because it was what we knew God wanted us to do, it has not been "easy" and sometimes a bit "scary" but we knew we could weather the storm because He was with us. Every time we do, He teaches us so many things about Him and about ourselves. I hope I will always remember His words, "but he who DOES the will of My Father in heaven." I want those words to be more powerful than any selfish feelings I might have. He has shown us over and over again, that a house built on Him the Rock, will be able to withstand the rain and storms when they happen. And did you notice it didn't say "if" but clearly stated they would come. I believe we are to expect them. It also made me think of what it feels like to go outside after a storm has passed by. The air seems refreshed, sometimes the yard is a mess and needs a little rearranging, but it usually leads to a cleaner yard. We pick up and throw out the things that came down during the storm, or repair the week things. I think we do that in our lives as well. We find the weaknesses or the parts in our busy lives that really are not productive or useful, and those need to go to the way side during a trial. You may find they need to leave your priority list all together. Today, I am thankful for our Rock!
This has been a tough week, but exciting week. Jon and David are in Ukraine, they signed Kristina out of the orphanage for good on Monday, and went to get her passport. All went well, and they headed for Kiev, for their Embassy appointment the next day. My grandmother (almost 92) was found in her home with a broken hip. She had been there for a few days before she was found. Praise God, she did well having surgery and is recovering now. Jon lost an envelope of money, which was a little stressful, but thanks for all the prayers, he found it when they got to Kiev and could thoroughly go through the luggage. They went to the Embassy on Tuesday, went to get her medical exam done and were done for Tuesday. They said it is really hot there. Today, Wednesday, they should already be at the Embassy right now, finishing her visa process, and leaving with it in hand any minute now. They plan to do some sight seeing around Kiev today and tomorrow. They get on a plane Friday at 5:30 AM to head home. WE cannot wait to meet them in Boston! This has been an incredible journey beyond words. We did not plan to adopt a 16 year old girl, but God said to us, "My plans are better than your plans." We needed to trust in Him, and David is having the best time with his new sister right now. He is so happy and says she is great! She even wrestles with him and puts him in a head lock. Jon and I both felt like she was already part of our family. God knits families together in such different ways than society does. I pray, if God has ever tugged on your heart regarding someone in need of the love of Christ, and you can be used to share it, consider, pray and take a step of faith. Who knows where it will lead? He won't leave you, you will have storms, but if you keep your eyes on Him, you can't go wrong.
Friday, July 16, 2010
SHOUT TO THE LORD, ALL THE EARTH LET US SING . . .
Mountains bow down, because You are God! Thank you Lord for how You have worked everything out. We will continue to pray for the enemy to stay away and that this trip will run smoothly, and be fruitful. We will continue to look to You for our path and our strength. Thank you Lord, that Kristina's international passport is ready to be picked up today. Thank you Lord, that we have an appointment at the US Embassy for Tuesday, AM. Thank you Lord, that the boys get to drive directly from the airport straight to Kristina. Thank you Lord, for providing just enough for each step we have been on. Thank you Lord, for giving us a chance to love another. May we continue to be guided by You, and be a blessing in Kristina's life. May she come to know You, and trust in You some day, and hear Your voice in the plans You have for her life. Thank you Lord, for loving us first!
We are busy packing. How amazing all the donations have been to the orphanage. We have vacuum sealed clothing, but still have to watch the weight limits on the boxes. We are paying for one box to go, and have two other big boxes as the boys checked baggage. The orphanage will be so blessed! Thank you for caring and sharing what you have.
We will be leaving early tomorrow morning to drop the boys off for their flights out of Boston. Please keep praying for safe travel and good flights. David is very excited to go to another country. They will be very busy for the first 3 days, but God willing and everything goes smoothly, they will have two days to see Kiev. They may even get a chance to meet a very special friend we can talk about when they return. Once they are gone, Naomi, Matt and I will begin our 7 day count down. We will go to Boston and meet their late night flight, stay over night and drive home on Sunday. The day cannot come quick enough.
We are sending our love to all of you, and I apologize if I have forgotten anything, or not responded to mail or phone calls. I have tried to keep on top of things, but my mind has been a bit unfocused this week. That is what I have prayed for, clarity in what needs to be done. I think we are on track now. Matt and I will be busy at home, preparing our home the best we can. We look forward to seeing you all soon.
Grace and Peace,
Linda and family
We are busy packing. How amazing all the donations have been to the orphanage. We have vacuum sealed clothing, but still have to watch the weight limits on the boxes. We are paying for one box to go, and have two other big boxes as the boys checked baggage. The orphanage will be so blessed! Thank you for caring and sharing what you have.
We will be leaving early tomorrow morning to drop the boys off for their flights out of Boston. Please keep praying for safe travel and good flights. David is very excited to go to another country. They will be very busy for the first 3 days, but God willing and everything goes smoothly, they will have two days to see Kiev. They may even get a chance to meet a very special friend we can talk about when they return. Once they are gone, Naomi, Matt and I will begin our 7 day count down. We will go to Boston and meet their late night flight, stay over night and drive home on Sunday. The day cannot come quick enough.
We are sending our love to all of you, and I apologize if I have forgotten anything, or not responded to mail or phone calls. I have tried to keep on top of things, but my mind has been a bit unfocused this week. That is what I have prayed for, clarity in what needs to be done. I think we are on track now. Matt and I will be busy at home, preparing our home the best we can. We look forward to seeing you all soon.
Grace and Peace,
Linda and family
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
PRAISING GOD!!!! What a journey!
Just a quick update. We have 4 days until Jon and David fly over to Ukraine to get Kristina. We spoke with her on the phone today, and she is extremely excited! That is an understatement. Her voice and the joy and excitement brings tears to my eyes. The love the Lord has given us for her is so great that I can only praise Him today. It will be a long week waiting for them to come back, but what an exciting week. Naomi is reading to take a bus to Boston. She saw one yesterday and was ready to go.
It appears we are starting a hosting program for Ukrainian orphans right here in Maine. If you are interested, or know anyone that might want to host an orphan for 2 weeks this fall, please have them get in touch with me. You can host to adopt/ or just do host only. So much more information to share as we get it organized.
Who would have thought that 6 months ago, God would say "How much do you have? Go and find out." and we could find ourselves being blessed in such an awesome, miraculous way! I love letting Him direct our family ship. He can see the entire journey from above, we can only see the bow.
Have a Blessed day!
It appears we are starting a hosting program for Ukrainian orphans right here in Maine. If you are interested, or know anyone that might want to host an orphan for 2 weeks this fall, please have them get in touch with me. You can host to adopt/ or just do host only. So much more information to share as we get it organized.
Who would have thought that 6 months ago, God would say "How much do you have? Go and find out." and we could find ourselves being blessed in such an awesome, miraculous way! I love letting Him direct our family ship. He can see the entire journey from above, we can only see the bow.
Have a Blessed day!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
MY HEART LOVES HER . . .
Today, we tried to phone Kristina to tell her the date to come and get her. We tried the first number we were given, only to find out she had been moved to a different teachers house. The first teacher that answered said that Kristina was getting sad and depressed because she was beginning to think we weren't coming. They had told her we were coming July 5th for some reason, and the day came and went and we were not there. I wanted to cry. My heart was so heavy. We HAD to reach her today. We continued trying the new phone numbers we were given and finally, she answered the phone. I was so happy to hear her voice, I can't even put it into words. We were able to talk and talk, and laugh, and plan. She sounded just like we were still together in Mala, before we left. I explained that we were told she would go to camp, and when we found out she didn't go, we worked on getting phone numbers so we could call her.
We talked about missing each other, and M&M's, packing clothes and shoes, and how excited we are to be together again. It may sound crazy to some people, but she is already our daughter, and it feels aweful to think she felt we might not come. There is already a bond, a love deep within my heart for her. We have a lot to learn and grow through together, but it was such a blessing to talk for 25 minutes today. Now, we will call again on Tuesday, and then Jon and David fly away on Saturday to see her on Sunday, July 18th. They fly home on July 24th God willing, and Matt, Naomi and I will meet them in Boston. This day cannot come soon enough for me.
Lord we know your timing is perfect, and will trust in that. Please keep me patient and understanding and everything You want me to be during this wait. Please bring peace and comfort to Kristina, who needs You more than she needs us. Wrap Your arms around her and let her know how much she is loved! Amen!
We talked about missing each other, and M&M's, packing clothes and shoes, and how excited we are to be together again. It may sound crazy to some people, but she is already our daughter, and it feels aweful to think she felt we might not come. There is already a bond, a love deep within my heart for her. We have a lot to learn and grow through together, but it was such a blessing to talk for 25 minutes today. Now, we will call again on Tuesday, and then Jon and David fly away on Saturday to see her on Sunday, July 18th. They fly home on July 24th God willing, and Matt, Naomi and I will meet them in Boston. This day cannot come soon enough for me.
Lord we know your timing is perfect, and will trust in that. Please keep me patient and understanding and everything You want me to be during this wait. Please bring peace and comfort to Kristina, who needs You more than she needs us. Wrap Your arms around her and let her know how much she is loved! Amen!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
I sense the time is near . . .
You know that we have had just enough given to us for each step of the adoption. We have been trying to raise funds to travel back to get Kristina as soon as all the papers are in the correct hands. I sense the time is near. As the total collection is nearing the goal set, I sense a trip coming soon. God has been so amazing to call different people, and groups into action. We again have been so blessed by many donations of items to take to the orphanage. Lots of socks, underwear, clothing, chalk, glow sticks, balls, etc. They will be so blessed by your caring hearts, but I know that our Lord is extremely blessed by your desire to care.
We were blessed by some financial donations for our trip this week. We appreciate all of them, big and small, but one is really needing to be shared. As I read Stormie Omartians calendar today, it really matched what happened. We got up early today, went to church, then the parade and then back to church for the picnic. I was approached by a dear friend who told me she had something in her car for me. Before we went to get it, she explained that she, her son, and her late husband had been saving change in a bottle for a special family trip they were going to take together. The family has lost this dear man to cancer this year. They have been praying about this money bottle and together, they decided they would like to donate it to our journey, and believed that is what her husband would have wanted as well. I had a lump in my throat as I thanked her, as there were no words that could tell her how I felt inside at that moment. God has been so amazing, but her strength and courage has been remarkable. We love this family so much . . . and I believe it is God's plan to continue to use them in ways we can't even begin to imagine. I don't question this woman's communication with our Lord, and if they believe this is what that fund is to go to, who am I to argue with them. The calendar reminds me of her character, and I hope we can all grow into this kind of Christian as we continue to walk each step of our lives following Jesus.
Gentleness is a humble meekness that is calm, soothing, peaceful, and easy to be around. Being considerate of the feelings and needs of others by exhibiting gentleness shows you are responding to the Spirit of God and what has been planted in you has taken root. Pray that you can be as gentle and meek as Jesus.
I believe this describes my friend, and her son has an excellent mom who models the love of our Lord day and night.
I am missing Kristina right now, but we know God's timing is perfect . . . and next year will be an amazing Independence Day! Please keep praying for papers to appear in our facilitators office so we can travel. We are so excited to bring her home to our family and all of you. Pray that I can continue in our Lord's peace and rest in knowing He has this all planned out . . . there can be NO mistaking that!
We were blessed by some financial donations for our trip this week. We appreciate all of them, big and small, but one is really needing to be shared. As I read Stormie Omartians calendar today, it really matched what happened. We got up early today, went to church, then the parade and then back to church for the picnic. I was approached by a dear friend who told me she had something in her car for me. Before we went to get it, she explained that she, her son, and her late husband had been saving change in a bottle for a special family trip they were going to take together. The family has lost this dear man to cancer this year. They have been praying about this money bottle and together, they decided they would like to donate it to our journey, and believed that is what her husband would have wanted as well. I had a lump in my throat as I thanked her, as there were no words that could tell her how I felt inside at that moment. God has been so amazing, but her strength and courage has been remarkable. We love this family so much . . . and I believe it is God's plan to continue to use them in ways we can't even begin to imagine. I don't question this woman's communication with our Lord, and if they believe this is what that fund is to go to, who am I to argue with them. The calendar reminds me of her character, and I hope we can all grow into this kind of Christian as we continue to walk each step of our lives following Jesus.
Gentleness is a humble meekness that is calm, soothing, peaceful, and easy to be around. Being considerate of the feelings and needs of others by exhibiting gentleness shows you are responding to the Spirit of God and what has been planted in you has taken root. Pray that you can be as gentle and meek as Jesus.
I believe this describes my friend, and her son has an excellent mom who models the love of our Lord day and night.
I am missing Kristina right now, but we know God's timing is perfect . . . and next year will be an amazing Independence Day! Please keep praying for papers to appear in our facilitators office so we can travel. We are so excited to bring her home to our family and all of you. Pray that I can continue in our Lord's peace and rest in knowing He has this all planned out . . . there can be NO mistaking that!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
HOSPITALITY: The Gift of Welcome
I know, interesting title. My power was out today for hours, and Naomi went down for a nap, so I spent some quiet moments in the Word and talking to the Lord. There is certain scriptures that catch my attention and then stick for such a long time, that I keep going back and "chewing on them" a little more each time. I grabbed a different Bible today, and was really blessed by the study notes and extra thoughts that were added to it. I thought I might share these for many reasons today. First, the holiday of the 4th is coming up, and we all tend to have extra people in our lives during these events. Second, the Ukrainian Hosting program is going to be coming here to speak about hosting orphans, and third, just because it is good for all of us, all the time. ;0)
1 Peter 4:7-8
The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a mulititude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
The notes said, "Hospitality is the practice of welcoming, sheltering, and feeding - with no thought of personal gain - those who come to your door. Hospitality is sharing what we have and who we are with whomever God sends."
"In the New Testament, Jesus modeled perfect hospitality as He moved beyond mundane physical needs to meet deeper needs of those who came to Him."
And my favorite thoughts to think about today were these:
"You can share your heart and life with others, even if the meal is simple and the setting in humble. The most important gift of welcome simply says I care, I love you, and I have prepared a place for you."
As I prayed and thought about these words today, I couldn't help think about the kids in orphanages, and one in particular only because I have personally met them. Each person will connect with whomever God has put in your path. I think about that exact message above. When people reach out and host these children, you are sharing Jesus with them through your love, by showing them you care, love them and have opened your home and hearts to them for a time. It is the same message we all want to hear from our Father in heaven. I, am so blessed that I know God cares, loves me and has a place prepared for me. I am praying that we can help spread this message to the orphans by modeling Jesus, and doing the same.
Have a blessed day!
1 Peter 4:7-8
The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a mulititude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.
The notes said, "Hospitality is the practice of welcoming, sheltering, and feeding - with no thought of personal gain - those who come to your door. Hospitality is sharing what we have and who we are with whomever God sends."
"In the New Testament, Jesus modeled perfect hospitality as He moved beyond mundane physical needs to meet deeper needs of those who came to Him."
And my favorite thoughts to think about today were these:
"You can share your heart and life with others, even if the meal is simple and the setting in humble. The most important gift of welcome simply says I care, I love you, and I have prepared a place for you."
As I prayed and thought about these words today, I couldn't help think about the kids in orphanages, and one in particular only because I have personally met them. Each person will connect with whomever God has put in your path. I think about that exact message above. When people reach out and host these children, you are sharing Jesus with them through your love, by showing them you care, love them and have opened your home and hearts to them for a time. It is the same message we all want to hear from our Father in heaven. I, am so blessed that I know God cares, loves me and has a place prepared for me. I am praying that we can help spread this message to the orphans by modeling Jesus, and doing the same.
Have a blessed day!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Christ Our Pattern
What a journey! How AMAZING our God. I am still brought to tears each time He steps in and showers us in little miracles. Put all together, they have become BIG miracles! The most amazing part of this experience has been seeing how each one of us can be used, if we just follow His calling. Yes, some people can help in larger ways, and we have been so blessed by family and friends that have the means and are willing to be part of this journey with us. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts. We know that every donation is a sacrifice and a heartfelt gift. It isn't just blessing me, but mostly Kristina. It is events like church on Sunday, when people we don't know just walk up with folded dollar bills and slip them into your hand and say, "buy something for the kids at the orphanage." It is complete strangers from other churches that hear our story and are moved into action. It is an anonymous friend that leaves an envelope on my kitchen counter, wanting no attention for it, with $100 bill inside, saying "use it for the orphans, whatever they need." Here is God's special moment yesterday. Just as I was opening that envelope and reading the note inside, a friend calls me and said, "Linda, you won't believe this but K-Mart is having a huge sale!" She filled me in on the items she picked up for the orphans, and I was listening to her and trying to read the note in my hands at the same time. I was overjoyed, because here was this huge sale, (jeans for $1.19 a pair), and money to bless these kids appears in my hand at just the right time. I asked her if she would want to meet me and help me shop for the kids. We took the money donated at church and the money God handed us at that moment, and headed to town. We were able to purchase over 100 items for the orphanage! AMAZING! I was so blessed being able to share this experience with a friend, and she was overjoyed as well, to be part of it. So, with that being said, I came home to a phone call of a large donation towards our trip that left me speechless. I try not to mention too many names in my posts, but you know who you all are, and please know that you have blessed us in ways we can't always express in words. Bringing Kristina home has not only helped Kristina, but has grown us Spiritually as well. It has been so many people working together, showing us all, that when we depend on ourselves and our own abilities alone, we limit what God may have planned for us in our lives. I am going to share Scripture that has spoken to me lately below. I hope it means something to just one other person. It is titled "Christ Our Pattern" in my New King James version Bible.
2 Corinthians 8:8-15
I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.
And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; but now you also must complete the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to desire it, so there also may be a completion out of what you have. For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have.
For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened; but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, that their abundance also may supply your lack--that there may be equality. As it is written, "He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack."
In the side notes in this study Bible, it said, "He was not advocating an artificial equalization of property but rather the relief of need."
If you have been following our journey, and have seen the part you can play in helping the orphan find a family who will love them and care for them, you may be interested in checking out Orphans Ransom. It is a newly founded 501c3 organization and I have been blessed to be asked to be on the board of directors. No one on the board will benefit from the donations, so this is not a way to benefit our adoption. It is again following scriptures that show us if everyone does just a little, God can put it all together to work for His plan. This is a prayerfully led group that wants to remove the financial barriers that keep kids from being placed in families because of the expense of adoption. Check it out at http://www.orphansransom.org/ and they have a facebook page as well.
Keeping you all in our prayers as we are blessed to have you praying for us as well. Grace and peace to you and your families on this blessed day!
2 Corinthians 8:8-15
I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.
And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; but now you also must complete the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to desire it, so there also may be a completion out of what you have. For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have.
For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened; but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, that their abundance also may supply your lack--that there may be equality. As it is written, "He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack."
In the side notes in this study Bible, it said, "He was not advocating an artificial equalization of property but rather the relief of need."
If you have been following our journey, and have seen the part you can play in helping the orphan find a family who will love them and care for them, you may be interested in checking out Orphans Ransom. It is a newly founded 501c3 organization and I have been blessed to be asked to be on the board of directors. No one on the board will benefit from the donations, so this is not a way to benefit our adoption. It is again following scriptures that show us if everyone does just a little, God can put it all together to work for His plan. This is a prayerfully led group that wants to remove the financial barriers that keep kids from being placed in families because of the expense of adoption. Check it out at http://www.orphansransom.org/ and they have a facebook page as well.
Keeping you all in our prayers as we are blessed to have you praying for us as well. Grace and peace to you and your families on this blessed day!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
His church is so awesome!
What a weekend. God never ceases to amaze me with His love. Today we were blessed by a video that John Hileman made about our journey to the Ukraine. After church, many people came and gave donations or asked what they could give to take to the orphanage on our next trip. We pray that this will bless these children and speak to the hearts of the workers as well.
I am trying to get all things straight in my mind tonight so I can be ready to tackle things in the morning. I am going to list some items here for anyone wanting to donate to the kids. Our own personal journey needs are still funding for plane tickets. We are still needing $4000 for this second trip and the time is ticking down. Please keep this in prayer.
Orphanage:
Clothing sizes 8-18
Hand santitizer
sports balls, pump and needles
sidewalk chalk
jump ropes
nurf toys
Glow in the dark bracelets from dollar store or walmart
We also were blessed by Geoff Moore's concert at Calvary Chapel last night. Please take time to listen to his music. Not only is he a gifted song writer and singer, but he also has the heart for adoption, as his family has grown by 2 through this gift. Pray for his work, as he has a powerful message to share. Jon and I were both blessed by his personal stories he was sharing throughout the night.
Grace and peace to you and your families,
Linda
I am trying to get all things straight in my mind tonight so I can be ready to tackle things in the morning. I am going to list some items here for anyone wanting to donate to the kids. Our own personal journey needs are still funding for plane tickets. We are still needing $4000 for this second trip and the time is ticking down. Please keep this in prayer.
Orphanage:
Clothing sizes 8-18
Hand santitizer
sports balls, pump and needles
sidewalk chalk
jump ropes
nurf toys
Glow in the dark bracelets from dollar store or walmart
We also were blessed by Geoff Moore's concert at Calvary Chapel last night. Please take time to listen to his music. Not only is he a gifted song writer and singer, but he also has the heart for adoption, as his family has grown by 2 through this gift. Pray for his work, as he has a powerful message to share. Jon and I were both blessed by his personal stories he was sharing throughout the night.
Grace and peace to you and your families,
Linda
Thursday, June 24, 2010
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD!!!
WOW . . . I woke up to this message this morning.
"CONGRATULATIONS MY DEAR FRIENDS!! This is a GOOD day! We have your daughters birth certificate."
Now we just need the $ to go over and bring her home. This entire experience has gone so fast. It is amazing how often we put our trust in mans ability to make things happen. I believe with all my heart that our God has had his hand upon this since he called us to step out in faith to bring a girl we didn't know into our home to be part of our family. Thank you Lord for showing us You CAN move mountains and You will be with us through the good times and the difficult times still to come. Your word has been our focus and our strength right from the start. This morning I just want to Praise You!!!
This is way faster than his best case scenario. It is very exciting. We should confirm our travel date today. Please pray with us for provision to fly over and get her. The sooner we can purchase the tickets, the less expensive they will be. Thanks! Also, there are three more steps that need to happen to get her on the plane, a new passport, medical exam and new visa. I hope you are all as excited to meet her as we are to bring her home!
Other exciting news, our brother in the Lord, Konstantin, is coming to our church to speak about the hosting program on July 25th! He will stay and visit Maine a few days as well. We are very excited to be hosting him here. The connections God has been involved in giving us with others has been awesome. So many new friends from near and far.
When we share our lives with Jesus, His likeness is stamped on our spirit and soul. When we plug into Him, the fruit of His Spirit is manifested in us. -
Stormie Omartian
"CONGRATULATIONS MY DEAR FRIENDS!! This is a GOOD day! We have your daughters birth certificate."
Now we just need the $ to go over and bring her home. This entire experience has gone so fast. It is amazing how often we put our trust in mans ability to make things happen. I believe with all my heart that our God has had his hand upon this since he called us to step out in faith to bring a girl we didn't know into our home to be part of our family. Thank you Lord for showing us You CAN move mountains and You will be with us through the good times and the difficult times still to come. Your word has been our focus and our strength right from the start. This morning I just want to Praise You!!!
This is way faster than his best case scenario. It is very exciting. We should confirm our travel date today. Please pray with us for provision to fly over and get her. The sooner we can purchase the tickets, the less expensive they will be. Thanks! Also, there are three more steps that need to happen to get her on the plane, a new passport, medical exam and new visa. I hope you are all as excited to meet her as we are to bring her home!
Other exciting news, our brother in the Lord, Konstantin, is coming to our church to speak about the hosting program on July 25th! He will stay and visit Maine a few days as well. We are very excited to be hosting him here. The connections God has been involved in giving us with others has been awesome. So many new friends from near and far.
When we share our lives with Jesus, His likeness is stamped on our spirit and soul. When we plug into Him, the fruit of His Spirit is manifested in us. -
Stormie Omartian
Monday, June 21, 2010
PLEASE KEEP PRAYING . . . UPDATED NEWS
I am very excited today, as I received news that our papers have made it to the hands of the hired help in the capitol of Kazakhstan. Tomorrow, he will be personally taking it to Kristina's birth town, and walking it from office to office in hopes of getting everything done to get her new birth certificate. Please . . . pray for this to go smoothly, as each country seems to have their own requirements, and ways of doing things. Pray all the documents are considered appropriate and everything needed is there. Also pray for no corruption and that this be a quick process. I am very hopefull we will hear something by the end of this week.
Secondly, because we have to take this second trip, we need to raise close to $5000. Please attach our blog or tell our story to others, and pray to see if the Lord wants to use you in big or little ways to help bring Kristina home. Every donation, $10, $20, $50 or $500 has added up allowing us to move forward when needed. It has been difficult for Jon and I to humble ourselves and ask for help, but we are truly in belief that God has used this journey to affect many others, and give us a chance to share His love along the way. We ask once again, please seek the Lord and see if He is asking you to be part of this journey with us. We thank you for your prayers and support.
We still have a hot tub for sale $4000. We will have yard sale soon if you have donations. I will post the date as soon as I am sure. We are collecting bottles and cans at JR Redemption center in Brewer. If you can't drop them off, please let us know and we will collect. If you have any other ideas, please let us know. We are willing to put these hands to use in any way we can.
Grace and Peace to you and your families as we prayerful wait to complete ours!
Secondly, because we have to take this second trip, we need to raise close to $5000. Please attach our blog or tell our story to others, and pray to see if the Lord wants to use you in big or little ways to help bring Kristina home. Every donation, $10, $20, $50 or $500 has added up allowing us to move forward when needed. It has been difficult for Jon and I to humble ourselves and ask for help, but we are truly in belief that God has used this journey to affect many others, and give us a chance to share His love along the way. We ask once again, please seek the Lord and see if He is asking you to be part of this journey with us. We thank you for your prayers and support.
We still have a hot tub for sale $4000. We will have yard sale soon if you have donations. I will post the date as soon as I am sure. We are collecting bottles and cans at JR Redemption center in Brewer. If you can't drop them off, please let us know and we will collect. If you have any other ideas, please let us know. We are willing to put these hands to use in any way we can.
Grace and Peace to you and your families as we prayerful wait to complete ours!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
PLEASE KEEP PRAYING . . .
Well, it has been a while since we last posted, and I need to be reminded sometimes that we should never cease in our prayers and our efforts to continue doing what the Lord calls us to, or to become lazy in our prayerful conversations with God. As we sit and wait, (something we aren't always so good at), we are reminded that NOTHING is ever official, permanent, or complete in the Lord's eyes, as His world is eternal. It is so easy to let ourselves become comfortable with "man's" laws and rulings, but what we know here in the United States courts is very different then in other countries, AND . . . even here in the U.S. things that used to be final and official now can be overturned with appeals and completely unreasonable arguments. I guess that brings me back to my first thought, we need to stay on our knees and in communication with the only One who understands all the plans. He can use human errors and still turn them to good if we let Him. He can strengthen those going through very difficult times, and keep us focused on a task if He calls us to it. I pray that we all surrender, drop on our knees and live for Him. Let Him direct our paths, and even when things seem dark, keep seeking His guidance and direction, for He will grow us through these trials and He sees the bigger picture. Sometimes that is the only way He can get us to something even greater, by putting us through the fire.
We believe our adoption of Kristina is going well at this time. We miss her terribly right now and have not had much contact since leaving Ukraine. Our situation is still out of our hands, we are getting used to that over the years. We wish we had more information coming, but truly we just have to wait. We are praying for a speedy paperwork connection in the other country and an email or phone call saying "come back and get her!" We still need to raise more funds to complete this journey. We are looking for some new ideas, and if you have yard sale items, we could really use donations again.
We need to raise money for the return trip and her ticket to come home. They are very expensive during this peek travel season over there. Also, we don't have much travel notice this time. I can't purchase anything in advance.
I ask for continued prayer support in all officials doing their jobs and having no surprises along the way. Thanks for all your support.
We believe our adoption of Kristina is going well at this time. We miss her terribly right now and have not had much contact since leaving Ukraine. Our situation is still out of our hands, we are getting used to that over the years. We wish we had more information coming, but truly we just have to wait. We are praying for a speedy paperwork connection in the other country and an email or phone call saying "come back and get her!" We still need to raise more funds to complete this journey. We are looking for some new ideas, and if you have yard sale items, we could really use donations again.
We need to raise money for the return trip and her ticket to come home. They are very expensive during this peek travel season over there. Also, we don't have much travel notice this time. I can't purchase anything in advance.
I ask for continued prayer support in all officials doing their jobs and having no surprises along the way. Thanks for all your support.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
We are back . . . but Kristina is not with us!
Amazing trip . . . something we would never have imagined from day one till we arrived back home. I don't think I can type all about it tonight, but will try over the next few days to take you on some of our experiences with us. We are so thankful for all your prayers and support. Unfortunately, now we need to save and prepare for a second trip back in about 4 - 6 weeks. We are going to have another yard sale, so if you are cleaning your house, give us a call.
Please pray for Kristina. She is still at the orphanage, and I am trying to just think about the day she gets to leave. It is hard to think about what life is like there, the "pecking order" of the kids, and how hard it was for her to watch other friends graduate and age out of the orphanage on the day we also left to come back home. I know she has hope and a future and a new family, so I ask that we all keep her in our prayers. I will try to post more photo's this week, but trying to readjust to the time, and not feel tired at 3:00 every day.
We were able to buy 90 pairs of shoes and the kids were so proud to show them to us the day after we delivered them. On this next trip, we hope to collect clothing from sizes 8 - 18. These children really need them. Summer shorts and shirts would be great. The other item for fun that is in great demand is glow in the dark bracelets. Sidewalk chalk was the other huge hit, and it really made the kids and teachers smile. It brightened up a very dull area. It also brought many children out of their shells, and they began to work at communicating with us through pictures they were drawing. One particular little girl was curled up in almost the fetal position, rocking back and forth by herself. I could see she was watching others with the chalk. I went over and gave her a piece. She slowly decided to come over and tried to copy a smiley face another child was drawing. Eventually she completed it, it was difficult work for her. No smiles for days, but she did join us. Then she began to follow us more and watch what we were doing. By the end, she let me take a photo of her and show it to her. She smiled. I wish you could see the smile, but here is the photo. You would never had known she was a little girl. It was moments like that we will never forget. Knowing that just spending a little time loving these kids can and will make a difference in their lives. I hope others will join us in trying to send some care boxes over to these kids. God bless and we will write more soon.
Friday, May 14, 2010
The time has come. . .
Praise the Lord! For this is the day the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad! We are up and heading for Ukraine to meet our daughter. I can't believe the day is here. Please keep us in your prayers, and we will update through Tonya and my parents when we can. Thank you for your support and prayers. This part of the journey has just begun, so please remember us in your prayers when you can. We will be sending all your love to Kristina. Hugs!
Jon and Linda
Jon and Linda
Saturday, May 8, 2010
6 more days!!!!!
Life changes . . . sometimes we are "looking" for change, and sometimes "change" just finds us. This morning during my quiet time, I was reflecting on the changes our family has experienced over the past few years. We have been through some rough roads that have directed us to some wonderful blessings in the end. I was thinking about how important it is to keep your focus on what is important, and what God is calling you to do, even if you don't see the entire picture all at once. He says in Isaiah 55:8-13
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
"For as the rain comes down,
and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there,
But water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth,
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
"For you shall go out with joy,
And be led out with peace,
The mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you,
And all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress tree,
And instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree,
And it shall be to the LORD for a name,
For an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off."
You know, even though we have been through many changes as a family, we are stronger, and more peaceful than ever before. We know that we are preparing for another change, and even though it takes work, we can look back at the trials and blessings from our past, and KNOW that God is walking with us on this new journey, and will not leave us nor forsake us. That really does give me such peace and excitement about what He has for me and my family. We have 6 days left until we begin our journey to meet Kristina in person. I can't put into words what it feels like waiting to meet a new 16 year old daughter. After having 4 foreign exchange students, and other experiences with teens, we are always blessed by the individual personalities they each have. Each one has their own gifts and strengths as well as their struggles and trials. All different, but all deserve to be loved and have an opportunity to know God loves them too. We are being given a chance to be part of Kristina's life and it is a huge gift but responsibility as well. I will be praying we will be all we can be for her, and that above all the worldly views of what coming to America means for her, she will ultimately feel loved, by our family, and by her Father in heaven.
So, I guess I now am saying, "Bring on the change!" because showing others the love of Christ is a blessing to us, and if by chance you receive any back, that is just a bonus.
Update: We are $2000 away from the travel goal we have. Thanks to all who have helped in so many ways. We can use your prayers still, as we have a lot of things going on at once. Please pray for me leaving our 3 year old for so long. I know she will do fine, I am just going to miss the kids.
Prayer for today: by Stormie Omartian
Thank you, Lord, that when I look into Your Word I find You. Help me to know You better through it. Give me ears to recognize Your voice speaking to me every time I read it. I don't want to ever miss the way You are leading me.
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
"For as the rain comes down,
and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there,
But water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth,
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
"For you shall go out with joy,
And be led out with peace,
The mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you,
And all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress tree,
And instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree,
And it shall be to the LORD for a name,
For an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off."
You know, even though we have been through many changes as a family, we are stronger, and more peaceful than ever before. We know that we are preparing for another change, and even though it takes work, we can look back at the trials and blessings from our past, and KNOW that God is walking with us on this new journey, and will not leave us nor forsake us. That really does give me such peace and excitement about what He has for me and my family. We have 6 days left until we begin our journey to meet Kristina in person. I can't put into words what it feels like waiting to meet a new 16 year old daughter. After having 4 foreign exchange students, and other experiences with teens, we are always blessed by the individual personalities they each have. Each one has their own gifts and strengths as well as their struggles and trials. All different, but all deserve to be loved and have an opportunity to know God loves them too. We are being given a chance to be part of Kristina's life and it is a huge gift but responsibility as well. I will be praying we will be all we can be for her, and that above all the worldly views of what coming to America means for her, she will ultimately feel loved, by our family, and by her Father in heaven.
So, I guess I now am saying, "Bring on the change!" because showing others the love of Christ is a blessing to us, and if by chance you receive any back, that is just a bonus.
Update: We are $2000 away from the travel goal we have. Thanks to all who have helped in so many ways. We can use your prayers still, as we have a lot of things going on at once. Please pray for me leaving our 3 year old for so long. I know she will do fine, I am just going to miss the kids.
Prayer for today: by Stormie Omartian
Thank you, Lord, that when I look into Your Word I find You. Help me to know You better through it. Give me ears to recognize Your voice speaking to me every time I read it. I don't want to ever miss the way You are leading me.
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