Spring is in the Air

We're in spring cleaning mode around here. It's a great feeling to know exactly what you have and where to find it. What a concept!

Here's to spring weather and a simpler, more organized life!

Oh, My Aching Head

It's been a rough week of migraine headaches...so I didn't accomplish much of anything (hence, no posts). Looking back, it's pretty amazing that I was able to care for Liliana, keep my family fed and see clients. So far, today looks like it's going to be migraine-free. Thank you, Lord!

Here's to a new lease on life!

Rare Footage

This is valuable photo for us. I liken it to a clear image of Bigfoot for scientists. This is hard evidence of a rare phenomenon in our family: Liliana sitting still and snuggling. Some believed it to be impossible. And now there is proof. I plan to frequent the Metrolink with the hope of recreating the moment that inspired Liliana nestle into my lap. It'll be worth every penny.

Go Cards!

Liliana attended her first Cardinals game last week. We had a ball with friends, Rachel and Jacob, who attended with us. It was a real treat to ride the Metrolink train, eat ballpark snacks and meet Fredbird! The Cards lost, but we had a wonderful time!

Earthquake!

Everyone in the Midwest is talking about it this morning...and we're no exception.

At 4:37am, I dreamt that I was lying in a vibrating bed--you know, the 1970's motel beds that shook for a quarter (and hopefully no longer exist). Then, nature called on line one. I headed to the potty--and, much to my surprise, the toilet was vibrating, too. I thought, "This sure is a strange dream." It was at that moment the fog rolled away and I realized this was no dream. The entire house was shaking...and it was an earthquake!

By God's grace, I was able to go back to sleep...but not before feeling the wonder and awe of the event. This morning, I learned the details and was completely amazed. It's hard to wrap your mind around this kind of thing. I mean, the earthquake was three hours away, on the IN/IL border...yet it was strong enough to wake us from dreamland in St. Louis. I can't imagine the terror and destruction experienced by those on the fault line...and others around the world who've known much, much worse.

This was my first experience with an earthquake. Although it was mild (and actually kind of cool) for us, I know that the effects were devastating for others. My heart and prayers go out to those who are picking up the pieces. May God hold them in the palm of His hand.

Four, Four, Four

A friend sent me a fun little "get to know ya" thing. I'm game. Although you're technically supposed to email the answers, I'm going to take it to blog-world. After all, each of my friends stop by from time to time. Here goes...

A) Four places that I go over and over:
Church & Edwards House
St. Louis Public Library
Trader Joe's
Sam's/Walmart
(In summer, the pool tops the list)

B) Four people who email me regularly:
Kate
Stacy
Dad W
Heather

C) Four of my favorite places to eat:
Houlihans (#1 in St. Louis)
Crescent City (#1-in Mississippi)
First Watch
Chevy's Fresh Mex

D) Four places I would rather be right now:
on a warm, sunny beach in Kauai
traveling the world
in southern IN with family
in southern MS with family

E) Four people I think will respond:
Mostly applicable for email

F) Four TV shows I watch all the time:
The Office
House
American Idol
Fox News (any and all)

If you're willing to share, I'd love to know your answers (to one or all). Feel free to post away in the comment section!

Bird Watch

There are now FIVE eggs in the nest! I have no idea how five baby Robins will fit in this tiny home, but we're on pins and needles waiting for them to hatch! Wow, I never imagined it could be so exciting to have birds move in. Guess I'm easily amused.

A New Addition

Okay, I thought my prayers were pretty specific...but maybe not clear enough! This week, we received an addition to our family. Much to our surprise, a fearless robin built a nest in the wreath on our front door. While we were deliberating about what to do (concerned that a visitor may lose an eye to a protective mama bird), an egg appeared in the nest. Yesterday, a second egg. This morning, a third!

If you come to our home, please approach with caution. Better yet, wear sunglasses!

Overflowing Hearts

Tonight was our weekly small group marriage study, during which Liliana spent time in our church's children's program. One of the caregivers had her precious foster baby with her, and Liliana was in love. She could not take her eyes (and hands) off of the tiny little girl, and she continued to talk about the baby as we were driving home. My heart was overjoyed to observe Liliana's tender and caring spirit; yet, it aches to know that our adoption may be weeks, months or even years away.

I know that God's plan is perfect, and I trust His timing. However, sometimes I wonder what's wrong with NOW? I mean, it seems that this is the ideal time for our family to grow...and yet there seems to be no movement in the adoption process.

Our life is good--very good--but it would be even richer with another member in our family. Our hearts are overflowing. Please pray that I would be patient, content and a blessing to others as we wait for our little one to come home.

In His grip,
Ramona

Thoughts of a Three-Year-Old

Here are quotes from Liliana during the past week...

Aye aye, Mama!

The bathroom is full of chemicals and viruses.

Do you enjoy conversation?

I'm exercising to keep my body strong and healthy.

Mama, can we please talk about this later?

Let's keep first things first.

State your problem, Daddy.

I'm going to hatch a plan.

I live in a foxhole, Mama.

What's your heart's desire?

S-T-O-P spells popcorn shrimp.

I'm gonna rock this town!

Treasured Friends

Wade and I are involved in an amazing small group Bible study on Wednesday evenings. We're studying the marriage relationship, using the book Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs. This is a life-changing study for us, not only because of the weekly dose of marriage insight, but also because of the incredible relationships we're building.

This dynamic group has been a Godsend for us. We are able to laugh, cry and be totally real with one another, knowing that we are accepted and loved unconditionally. I highly recommended it. We all need supportive individuals to encourage and hold one another accountable.

Wade and I have so many wonderful friends, both in and apart from this small group...and we are so deeply grateful. Several years ago, we felt completely unattached to St. Louis and it's community. Now we couldn't imagine leaving. Thank you to all of our friends, near and far!

A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two men can stand back-to-back and conquer. ~Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT

A faithful friend is a strong defense; and he that hath found him hath found a treasure. ~Louisa May Alcott