Wild West Fall Fest

Tonight our family saddled up for the Wild West Fall Fest, an evening of rip roarin' good fun! Here's my Cinderella in the arms of my cowboy before the big dance. I tell ya what, I see that sweet little face every single day, and my love for her still knocks me over sometimes! Below: cowgirl mommy enjoys s'mores with her little princess.

Girls on the Block

Here I am with some of my favorite pals: Cathy, Jen, Victoria, and Stacy. The photo is a bit blurry, but the love comes across loud and clear! Wade and I are so thankful that God brought us to a community where our neighbors are some of our very best friends. What a gift!

Supernatural

Here's my little Elvira wearing her glow-in-the-dark vampire teeth. She received them yesterday at the birthday party, and she loves them. Little Dracula even brought them to our church event last night and wore them on the playground. Thank you, Clay and Victoria, for this lovely new fascination!

Tonight we attended a large Reformation Day service at Twin Oaks. Throughout the worship service, I was keenly aware of God's presence. At one point, I couldn't contain the tears--it was as if the breath of Jesus was all around me. The spirit moved me--especially as hundreds of voices proclaimed His glory in song. As one who is not inclined to the esoteric, believe me--God was undoubtedly in our midst tonight.

God wants us to be present where we are. He invites us to see and to hear what is around us and through it all, to discern the footprints oft the holy. ~Richard J Foster

May you seek God's face, and may the Lord make Himself known to you. ~Ramona

Another Super Saturday

Another eventful Saturday for our family as we rolled strikes at a "Cosmic Bowling" birthday party and participated in a "Chili Throwdown" at church. The day started with a great opportunity to bowl and dance and chow down with neighbors at the local Brunswick alley. Pictured left: Wade shows Liliana how to roll the ball, granny style. Bowling wasn't her thing, so she opted to eat popcorn, play with play-doh and "organize" the bowling balls while the rest of the group bowled. To each her own! Congratulations to Wade, whose 185 was the high score of the party people.

This evening, we joined our church family for a chili cook-off. I thought I'd keel over when our fold elder asked me to make the competition chili for our fold. After all, I'm just a novice in the kitchen. Well, not only was my chili a contender, but it won first prize! When I heard the results, I screamed in surprise and delight!

Here's to quality time with friends and hidden talents! ~Ramona

Snow Princess

Last night was our first appearance at the Kirkwood Halloween Walk. We went with a group of friends and enjoyed the kids in costume, trick-or-treating and chilly weather. Despite the drizzling rain, the evening was spooktacular fun. After an hour of cavorting for candy at local businesses, we were so cold and hungry that we decided to duck into a restaurant for some American eats. Photo left: Liliana playing "ring around the table" just before we headed home.

Self-Study Questions

As Wade and I complete the self-studies required for Bethany's home study process, I am amazed at the mental and emotional energy it takes to sufficiently answer the questions. Before personally going through this process, I always wondered what type of things were asked. Well, here's a little looksie!

Describe your personality; include what you view as your strengths and weaknesses.

What significant events or experiences have shaped your personality?

Describe a personal achievement that gave you satisfaction.

List some personal goals for yourself and your family.

What are your interests, hobbies and activities?

Describe your family during your childhood, including relationships among family members.

What were the positive and negative qualities of your family?

Describe the values, traditions, and expectations you feel your parents attempted to instill in you.

Describe your parents' relationship to each other, both while you were growing up and today.

What kind of child were you? How did you spend your time? Who were your friends? What are your most pleasant childhood memories and unhappy memories?

What methods of discipline did your parents use?

Describe your educational experience and include dates of graduation.

How did you meet your spouse? What attracted you to him/her? How are you alike? How are you different?

What strengths do you bring to the marriage? What strengths does your partner bring to the marriage?

How has your relationship changes since the "honeymoon?" What do you admire about him/her now?

What are your common interests and activities?

What are your main areas of disagreement? Do you and your spouse agree on spending and saving?

How do you settle differences of opinion or disagreements with each other?

How have you divided family responsibilities, such as wage earning, household jobs and childcare?

What are your relationships with each other's families?

What role does your physical relationship play in your marriage?

Please list all previously held jobs, indicating the years spent at each job (list dates). What are your current job responsibilities?

What are your thoughts about a three-month parental leave of absence after a child is placed?

If you have children already, please describe their personalities and interests.

Do your children know of your intention to adopt and if so, how do they respond?

How might adoption be good for your children? How might it be difficult?

How do you think another child will impact your life?

What strengths and experiences do you have that will help you be a good parent?

What will be your methods of discipline? What do you feel are important characteristics of good discipline?

What qualities, values and character would you like to develop in your children, and how would you promote these?

When did you first start thinking about adoption and why? Is infertility a factor in your choice? If so, what medical diagnosis or advice have you received? How long ago? Are you at present trying to conceive?

Do you and your spouse feel the same about adopting? Who initiated the action?

How do your extended family and friends feel about adoption?

Adoption and the Bible

It is no secret that Wade and I are very excited about our call to adoption. What is not so well-known is how extensive and exhaustive the adoption process can be. This home study process has been an incredible opportunity to dig deep into our experiences and examine who we are, what we believe and how we arrived at this place in our lives.

The adoption process at Bethany is no easy task, and it is one that requires the applicants to really understand themselves and the true meaning of adoption. How perfect that we should be studying 1 John, which speaks about the greater definition of adoption--the means by which all believers enter into the family of God. What a beautiful parallel to the adoption of a child.

As we researched and prayerfully considered adoption, we encountered some questions & answers that were very helpful. Here they are:

Is adoption biblical?
Absolutely! The Bible is a story of our adoption by God. Adoption is the means by which all believers enter into the family of God. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. Romans 8:14-17

Is adoption a “second best” way to form a family?
Adoption is not “second best.” It is simply one way that God in His wisdom can choose for us to be parents. Whether one becomes a parent biologically or through adoption, the fact is that children are not a right—they are a gift from God. “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord. Psalm 127:3

Does the Bible refer to adoption in a positive way?
Yes! The Bible always presents adoption as a positive, gracious act that is part of God’s plan.Moses was adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter and his adoption was part of God’s overall plan for the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. (Exodus 2:1-10)

When Esther’s parents died, Mordecai, her cousin, took her as his own daughter and adopted her (Esther 2:15). This adoption also led to a wonderful deliverance of the people of God!

And in a way, wasn’t Jesus an adoptee? Joseph, who raised Jesus as his own, was not His biological father. Joseph gladly accepted Jesus, providing Him with all the love, encouragement, and guidance that a son needs from a father. Luke1-2

Are there other models of adoption in the Bible?
Yes. The Bible tells us that there is only one way for us to enter the Kingdom of God—we must become God’s adopted children through Jesus Christ. …“having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:5-6

“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5

In adopting us through Christ, God shows the depth of His love. What a delightful model this presents to those who want to adopt a child as their son or daughter. God uses adoption to advance His Kingdom and to share the miracle of His unconditional love. The child adopted into a Christian family will have the security of knowing that God has been watching over and protecting him or her since before birth. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5

(Adapted from Bethany Christian Services website article: "What does the Bible say about adoption.")

Have a wonderful week! ~Ramona

The Road Ahead

Here are dear friends, Jenna and Allison, at a "welcome back" gathering this weekend. No, Wade and I did not undergo an accelerated adoption (or steal a baby)--I'm holding Jenna's sweet Jillian.

But since you brought it up (nudge, nudge- wink, wink)...we are one step closer to the child God has planned for our family. That's right! We submitted our formal application to Bethany Christian Services, and we've been accepted! We are now in the process of completing our home study, and we're very excited about the road ahead.

I would have mentioned this tiny detail a couple weeks ago, but we wanted to share the news with our families before making it "public." We have prayerfully considered and carefully researched adoption, and we are thrilled that God has called us to this journey. The Lord gave me a heart for adoption very early in life (about the same age I decided to call the 1-800 number to sponsor a child in Africa and found out that 10-year-olds aren't allowed to use their parents' credit cards). I am so grateful that my husband understands the Biblical basis for this ministry and what a gift it is to adopt one of God's children into our family.

We know that the journey may be difficult at times. The road to adoption can be bumpy and long (typically 2-3 years). And every child--biological or chosen--comes with his or her own special challenges. We know that quite well! And just as God set apart Liliana for our family and entrusted her into our care, He has ordained the other children that belong in our family. We have no doubt that we will love and treasure our adopted child(ren) just as much as we adore Liliana. Our hearts are bursting!

We are overjoyed to be sharing this news with you, and we would love to hear your thoughts about adoption...especially if you have a personal testimony you'd like to share! We pray that our family and friends will support and encourage us as we embark on this journey.

May you be richly blessed in the coming week. ~Ramona

Super Saturday

What a great day! We made unforgettable memories at Eckert's Farm in Belleville and later had dinner with friends in St. Charles. At Eckert's, Liliana and I rode a camel. Yes, a camel! In addition to the great dromedary experience, we raced tractor trikes, flew planes, fed goats and picked pumpkins. Both this morning and the evening, we had a chance to grow closer with treasured friends. It doesn't get much better than this. We are so blessed to have such a cool church family!

West County Choppers

Our family has been enjoying beautiful autumn weather in St. Louis county this week. We've been playing outside on the playground and enjoying family walks around the neighborhood. Today Liliana displayed her scooting skills on the quiet streets of our subdivision. She was so advanced that we thought she should kick it up a notch! (See next photo.)

(No children were endangered in the making of this photo. The motorcycle was not in motion, and Daddy was standing next to her...just in case. Or as they say on TV, "Professional driver. Closed course.")

Our Princess

Little fairy princess (the 2003 glasses were her special touch) on her way home from a kids' costume party down the street. Sugar & spice, and everything nice!

A reminder of God's covenant with His people. (I missed the double rainbow that everyone raved about this afternoon.)

Three Cheers for October!

This has been a delightfully busy October. Our calendar has been exploding with activities, gatherings and parties. Having recently seen so many friends and neighbors, I feel wonderfully in touch with our community. The remainder of the month appears equally full, and I look forward to the memory-making opportunities that lie ahead.

Here Liliana plays so sweetly in our back yard.

Wade pulls Liliana during our annual neighborhood Chili Cook-Off.

Liliana and neighbor, Blaine, enjoy a ride around the subdivision.

Here we gather with friends and enjoy zany moments.

Who said grown-ups don't know how to have fun?!

Why Adoption?

I don't have the words. Let this speak for me.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhqJYOYcnAU

Expecting...

Here we are at the Faust Park Carousel for a birthday party this afternoon. Thanks to Wade's silly antics, we got a genuine smile from Liliana. Oh, how I love those dimples! Thanks to Nicole for snapping the photo just in time.

When I consider our happy family of three, I wonder about the child God is preparing for us. We have so much love in our hearts, and I know that we will treasure our adoptive son or daughter just as we love Liliana. As the Lord prepares our hearts and home for adoption, we are so grateful that He has brought us to this crossroad. The journey has been treacherous at times, but we are overjoyed to be right where we are.

We pray that the Lord will continue to guide our steps and give us wisdom through this emotional, yet hope-filled process. Please pray for our child, wherever s/he is!

Blessings to you,
Ramona

The Good Stuff

Children are the living messages we send
to a time we will not see. ~John W. Whitehead




There are no seven wonders in the world in the eyes of a child.
There are seven million. ~Walt Streightiff




While we try to teach our children all about life,
Our children teach us what life is all about.
~Angela Schwindt

All Work and No Play

This is what I discovered when it got quiet in the family room...

Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, it's off to work I go!



Liliana has always loved piling her toys on the sofa. Notice the socks and shoes!

A Heart Full of Gratitude

I can't believe we're already well into October! With fall activities, Bible studies, small groups and soccer season in full swing, our weeks seem to fly right by. Plus, it must be the birthday month of the year, because everyone we know is having a party. Our calendar is so full, and our free time is so limited. Even so, it's times like these that life is so rich!

On to answered prayer...
My consulting practice has really taken off. I have been receiving a steady stream of referrals since the moment I started accepting clients. The most beautiful thing is that I am able to do all of my work from home during the afternoon or evening when Liliana is sleeping. It's so rewarding to help parents implement effective parenting strategies and support them through difficult situations. And though nothing compares to being a full-time mommy, it sure is a blessing to help others in their time of need.

I am so thankful for the opportunities God has given me. This is a wonderful life, and I am excited to see what is in store for us. Although we've experienced a great number of trials in the past few years, the blessings have been far more plentiful. I thank the Lord for bringing us through the refining fire so that we may experience life with hearts full of gratitude and eyes fixed upon Him.

Thanks for continuing this journey with me. ~Ramona

The Path to Adoption

Today I am especially thankful for answered prayer. God is really showing us which direction to go with adoption, and He has opened doors of possibility that we never expected. We continue to pray that He guide our steps in this process.

Blessings,
Ramona

True Hope

My Tuesday night Bible Study group is such a blessing in my life.
1 John is so rich and full of real-life application, and the women in the group are genuine, open and truly seeking God's face. I'm really looking forward to seeing what's in store for us as the study continues.

As my understanding of God grows, so does my love and adoration for Him. I cannot imagine living this life without the hope that comes from knowing the Lord. We live in a world filled with pain, suffering and sadness. But our sorrows are light and temporary compared to the glory that is to come. And even in times of sorrow, there's inexplicable comfort and peace that stem from a personal relationship with Christ. This week, my personal prayer is to be a blessing to others and to live as if Jesus were right here in the room.

In Him,
Ramona

Family Fun at Schroeder Park

Liliana rides piggy-back through "the spooky forest."

A sweet view of Daddy and daughter.

Hand in hand on a nature trail.