All about the Enskats

Our newest little Tide fans...

2012-01-09T10:17:00.000-06:00

ROLL TIDE!

Gotta love being a woman...

2011-12-09T16:12:00.000-06:00

NINE WORDS WOMEN USE...

(1) Fine : This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right
and you need to shut up.

(2) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five
minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes
to watch the game before helping around the house.

(3) Nothing : This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and
you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in
fine.

(4) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

(5) Loud Sigh: This is actually a word. It's also a non-verbal statement
often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot
and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you
about nothing. (Refer back to # 3 for the meaning of nothing.)

(6) That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can
make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before
deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

(7) Thanks : A woman is thanking you, do not question, or faint. Just say
you're welcome. (This is true, unless she says 'Thanks a lot.' That is PURE
sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say 'you're welcome'.
That will bring on a 'whatever').

(8) Whatever : Is a woman's way of saying....Go to H@!!...

(9) Don't worry about it, I got it : Another dangerous statement, meaning
this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is
now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking 'What's wrong?'
For the woman's response refer to # 3.

The next chapter...

2011-12-07T08:46:00.000-06:00

Hello again! Yes...I know it has been too long since I last posted, but all I can say is that life takes you in and time slips away. We have been busy...busy...BUSY! My kids have discovered a new love...the computer...which totally cuts into my blogging time. So maybe Santa will bring me a computer of my very own...a girl can dream!

The gang has been doing great! I know by now you all know that Autumn has let the cat out of the bag. I seriously was not trying to blow you all off by not answering the millions of questions, but I felt that this was something that was best kept between us and the Winks until they were ready. We are thrilled beyond words that Yuri will be a part of our family...I am so in love with that little guy!

All the kiddos are doing great in school...Yuri was doing so well so the teacher suggested that he start going 5 days a week. He loves it. So now...it's just me and Michael at home during the day.

Many of you may recall last year at this time when doctor after doctor after doctor all said there was nothing they could do for Timofey's hip. I took your advice and didn't stop searching until I found someone who wanted to help him...and guess what...the orthopedics at Vandy are eager to help. Apparently, no ortho in the United States has ever seen anything like this...so the doctors at Vandy are eager to pioneer a procedure that they think can help and have Tima up and walking in no time. We head to Nashville December 20th...can't wait!

That's about all that's going on in our world. Maybe now that life is back to normal...I won't fall off the face of the earth again! One more thing...

Thank you Aunt Robyn for my birthday gifts...love Yuri!

Happy 4th Birthday Yuri...

2011-10-22T08:11:00.000-05:00

You are a chosen child
You are ours, but not by birth
But just the same, we feel
You are the greatest child on earth

You are a chosen child
Sent down from God above
Chosen to fill our home
With laughter and with love

You are a chosen child
You have given us so much pleasure
Chosen above the rest
A precious, priceless treasure

Happy 4th Birthday Timofey...

2011-10-16T16:44:00.000-05:00

For you our precious son
We send a birthday prayer
That you may know God’s love
With the unfolding of each year

And that you’ll come to know
God’s purpose and His plan
As you walk with God through life
Together hand in hand.

Love and laughter
Ribbons and bows
Birthday cake to eat
Fun and games
And party food
Sure is a birthday treat

Remember though
Who loves you most
And is watching over you
Our Father above
Filled with love
Is celebrating too.

By M.S.Lowndes

Fun facts about Down syndrome...

2011-10-11T22:18:00.000-05:00

DID YOU KNOW?!

* That 1 in 5 children with DS play a musical instrument? For children older than ten, that number doubles. One of five children with DS sing in a choir or vocal group, for children older than ten, it is every one in three...

* Two out of every three children with DS like to draw and/or paint pictures

* Approx. 9 out of every 10 individuals with DS listened to someone read a book more than three times a week between the ages 2-5

* Approx. 7 out of 10 children w/ DS use total communication (signs, etc) between the ages of 2-5

* Approx. 7 out of 10 kids with DS saw a speech therapist two or more times a week between the ages of 2 and 5

* Approx. 1 of every 3 children with DS older than ten rides a bike without training wheels

* Seven of every ten individuals with DS older than ten participates on an athletic team through Special Olympics

* Two out of every five individuals with DS participates on an integrated athletic team.

* According to their families, 3 out of 5 individuals with DS know how to operate a computer.

* One of every three individuals with DS older than ten w/ DS reads the daily newspaper on his or her own

* Seven of ten individuals with DS older than 10 read books on their own for personal enjoyment

* One of two children with DS go to school in a mainstreamed class.

* 3 of 5 children with DS participate in school activities that are open to all students.

* According to their families, 1 of 5 children with DS talk on the phone with friends more than three times a week. For children older than ten, that number doubles.

* One of three children with DS write email regularly

* Two of three children with DS over age ten have a boyfriend or girlfriend!

* Approx. 7 of ten children with DS pray on a regular basis.

* According to their families, approx. 7 of 10 individuals with DS imitate characters from a television program or movie

* Approx. 2 of 3 individuals with DS older than 10 prepare their own breakfast each morning.

* Three of four individuals with DS older than 10 make their own bed in the morning.

* One of two individuals with DS (older than 18) work in a non sheltered workplace

* One of five individuals with DS (18 or older) lives on his or her own

Happy Birthday Daddy...

2011-10-10T19:55:00.000-05:00

This is a special birthday wish
That comes with love to you
It brings warm and heartfelt thanks
For all the thoughtful things you do--

It also comes to let you know
You mean more to us each day
To everyone your life has touched
In such a loving way.

Happy Birthday
We love You!

Abby's artistic touch...

2011-10-06T18:20:00.000-05:00

Life with my little Abigail is...well...interesting! She is a super fun, outgoing, and loving little girl...but man is she STUBBORN! It's totally Abby's way. Seriously...this child is getting "U's" on her report card...not because she doesn't know the material...it's simply because when asked, she refuses to answer the question. STUBBORN...I tell ya. So lately, Abby has had a crazy obsession with hamburgers. It's a serious obsession...hamburgers for breakfast, lunch, and supper. Crazy...I know. Noah tried a little experiment for breakfast this weekend and decided to let Abby literally PLAY with her food. Abby created a new friend out of a pancake, peanut butter, jelly, and sausage. Once she posed for a portrait of her new friend...she consumed every bite of her lifeless buddy as if it never meant a thing to sweet Abby. Wow girlfriend...I hate to see how you devour those you dislike!

School Days...

2011-10-05T18:04:00.000-05:00

Today was Yuri's first day of school. Now...I have to admit, I was a little nervous about this...not for Yuri, but for the teacher. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE his teacher...and that was my concern. I have witnessed first hand the destruction that Yuri and Timofey...aka the destructive duo...are capable of. Then, to throw Varia into the mix...it didn't paint a pretty picture in my mind and I was so sure after today their sweet teacher would call it quits and beg for early retirement.

So we arrived a little early so that Yuri could meet the teacher and her trusty sidekick before the mass of students arrived for their fun filled day of learning. We walked into the classroom and Yuri was in heaven. This class had every loud, obnoxious toy that was ever created. It was a Yuri paradise...and he crawled into that room as if it was prepared especially for him...a top notch Yuri wonderland.

He did great at school...and loved it even more when the bus delivered Timofey and Varia to join him in the crazy fun. Nina is in a different class, but she still gets to see her buddy at PE and lunch.

So Yuri will be going to school 3 days a week...Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Yay Yuri!!!

On a side note...one of the super talented 19 mamas...Becky...is donating ALL of the proceeds from her esty shop to Operation: Christmas in Nikolaev. So check out her store...and maybe you can even get a little Christmas shopping of your own done and help an orphan too!

Grab This!

Guess who's starting school...

2011-10-04T17:16:00.000-05:00

Any Guesses???

Come back tomorrow to see all the exciting events

of this little guy's first day of school!

I'll have pictures...I promise!

Don't Forget...

Please visit Operation: Christmas in Nikolaev

and help bless an orphan from baby house 19

with a very special Christmas gift!

Grab This!

Christmas Blessings for Baby House 19...

2011-10-03T17:43:00.000-05:00

I know...I know...it's only October and here we are about to have us a chat about Christmas. For those of you who have followed our lives, you know there are a few things that are so very special to me...orphans, Down syndrome, and Nikolaev Ukraine. I'm sure many of you have no clue that somewhere in the backwoods of Ukraine there is a nice,little city named Nikolaev...and those same people probably have no reason to ever know this place exists...but to me, Nikolaev holds a very special place in my heart. It is and always will be the very special place that blessed me with 3 of the most adorable and totally awesome little chubs ever. Away from all the hustle and bustle of the city...down a narrow, twisted road that is so full of potholes one could easily lose their car...behind the huge, metal gate...there sits baby house 19. Those of you who followed our journey to 19 know my love and passion for the ones we left behind. Over the past 13 months, I have seen many of the kids that were once housed behind those gates home with a family of their own...but there are still so many more waiting...and waiting...and waiting.

This year, many of the mamas of baby house 19 have joined forces to create a very special project called Operation: Christmas in Nikolaev and we want to invite you to join our celebration. Here is how it works...

For the month of October, we are collecting shoe boxes filled with goodies that will be sent to the orphans in Nikolaev. You can find all the information on how you can help HERE. The boxes will be shipped to a Christan group that will deliver the precious cargo to each and every child on Christmas morning. The best part is...this organization is going to capture the faces of these beautiful children as they open their gifts so y'all can see the Christmas joy you have brought to a child who literally has nothing. So scoot on over to Operation: Christmas in Ukraine and check it out. You can also donated via the chip in located on either blog and the Enskat clan will be happy to do your shopping for you.

On behalf of the mommies of baby house 19...Thank you for making a difference this Christmas for our sweet children left behind.

Just one of those days...

2011-09-23T10:35:00.000-05:00

Any takers???...I didn't think so :)

For all you Yuri lovers...

2011-09-21T10:37:00.000-05:00

Hello again! I know...I know...it was almost like we fell off the face of the earth. Life has been CRAZY the past few months. I would try to explain...but really, you would NEVER believe me if I told you all that has been happening around here. I am definitely BLOWN AWAY by all the comments you all have left checking in on us...and for Yuri. Wow...that little guy has a HUGE fan club. It's amazing to see how a little boy who was once forgotten about on the other side of the world can impact so many hearts...but seriously, I know first hand what a little love muffin he is and oh how he melts my heart. Since I have not kept my promise to you by making sure to give you updates...I must make it right and let you know all this little cutie has been up to!

Yuri has started physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy...and he is making HUGE progress. He is a charmer who knows how to tug at the heartstrings of all he meets. He is head over heels in love with his PT...yes, he likes those older women. At first, he thought if he smiled and laughed, the therapists would easily be conned into not requiring him to actually work. Nope...didn't happen, but he really does enjoy his sessions. They are working with him on walking, sensory therapy, feeding issues...and babbling. He loves working with the exercise peanut...which helps build his stomach and back muscles. He is doing amazing!

We have spent our summer hanging out and having fun....most of our time has been in the pool! We took the kids to a miniature amusement park...Yuri LOVED the baby roller coaster. He rode that little ride over...and over...and over. Thinking back...I have to wonder if he was really just lovin' the cute girl that held on to him...he is definitely a ladies man!

Last weekend...we got a little visit from Mrs. Winks. After she laughed her tail off at my unique southern dialect..we had a great time catching up. She was so excited to see little Yuri and how well he's doing. He was excited to see her too. He showed off his new skills and once again charmed her with his contagious smile. It was a really fun visit. Ha...y'all are really confused now...can't wait to see these comments!

So there you have it...an entire Yuri summer crammed into a blog post. Now that things have settled down a bit...and 5 kiddos have returned to school...I can return to my much neglected blog. I have a lot to catch you up on with the other kiddos...but I thought if I didn't update Yuri's fanclub soon, yall would start showing up at my front door. Stay tuned for more...I know you can hardly wait :)

Happy Birthday Hannah...

2011-09-05T06:25:00.000-05:00

My first born is 9...and I'm having a really hard time believing it! Nine years ago...I would have never imagined you would be the loving, caring, and compassionate little girl you are today. To say I am proud of the person you are becoming is an understatement...I am amazed that someone so young could be the voice for those who are trying so desperately to be heard and an advocate for those who are still fighting to be treated the same as everyone else. I could not have chosen a better big sister for your siblings if I hand picked one myself...you are so treasured by your brothers and sisters simply because you love them unconditionally. I'm excited to see what the Lord has planned for your 9th year on this earth. Happy Birthday my sweet girl!

Tubby time...

2011-07-30T19:39:00.000-05:00

A Crowded tub
By: Shel Silverstein

There's too many kids in this tub.
There's too many elbows to scrub.
I just washed a behind
That I'm sure wasn't mine.
There's too many kids in this tub.

He's only a prayer away...

2011-07-24T19:19:00.000-05:00

Good Morning~

I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help.

If the devil happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, DO NOT attempt to resolve it, kindly put it in the SFJTD (something for Jesus to do) box. It will be addressed at MY times, not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold on to it or attempt to remove it. Holding on or removal will delay the resolution of your problem. If it is a situation that you think you are capable of handling, please consult me in prayer to be sure that it is the proper resolution.

Because I do not sleep nor do I slumber, there is no need for you to loose any sleep.

Rest my child.

If you need to contact me, I am only a prayer away.

The music of possibility...

2011-07-21T21:07:00.002-05:00

All about Yuri...

2011-07-20T16:17:00.000-05:00

Yuri has been here for about 3 weeks now, so I wanted to update y'all on how he is doing. I am overwhelmed by your love for this little Ukrainian dynamo...and in awe of your support for my dear friend, Autumn. It's a complicated situation for many to understand, but thank you so much for your sweet words of love.

So what's been going on?...Well, Yuri is officially chewing! Can you believe it? It was a little bit challenging at first...but it was quickly discovered that Yuri likes to be in control of what enters his mouth. It's not that he can't chew...he just doesn't want to. So we have been working hard in that area. It now only seems like we are torturing him for the first few bites...after that he opens his mouth when prompted. He even signs "more" when he wants another bite! He has chomped on an apple, a carrot, some of those Gerber toddler meals...but his all time favorite is spaghetti o's. He devours the entire can at one sitting! He has also started taking a few sips of apple juice mixed with water from a cup. He is still working on closing his mouth once the liquid is in...he will get there.

We started working with him in a gait trainer. He really wasn't sure about this one at first...but once he realized he could get in the kitchen cabinets faster, I think he started to like it. He is actually walking in it and enjoying being a vertical little person. He, like the rest of the bunch, realize it's a whole lot easier to get in trouble when you can walk...even if you require a neat contraption to get you to your next place of destruction!

It's been so much fun to watch Yuri explore this new territory. It's been very entertaining to watch the other kiddos interact with him and just about daily...he has a new partner in crime. The girls love playing "babies" with him...and guess who always gets to be the baby. I do have to say Yuri fits rather nicely in a baby doll stroller...and he is eating up the attention...trust me! He truly is a joy to have around!

So there you have it...another little peek as to what Yuri has been up to. Hopefully, I will be able to post some pictures here soon and maybe address some of the millions of questions that have poured in.

Another successful surgery for Abby...

2011-07-19T16:22:00.000-05:00

The patient is home now and doing great. She finally fell asleep and for the first time EVER it didn't sound like a freight train was making a detour through her room. Praise the Lord for clean sinuses! Although the foreign nose invader never showed itself...I made sure that Abby understood that the only thing we put in our noses is our fingers...and we don't do that in public. Add that to the "Things I never thought would come out of my mouth" list...which is becoming rather lengthy. The ENT said her ears were some nasty business, but he took care of those puppies too. He cleaned them out and put nice, new t-tubes in. Those suckers should work like never before. So soak up the attention today sweet Abigail...but tomorrow we are taking those new ears of yours for a test drive to see if you can FINALLY be a newly inducted member of the "I listen to my mama and follow directions" club! I don't see it happening...but a girl can dream :)

My dearest Abigail...

2011-07-18T15:45:00.000-05:00

Oh sweet girl...you never cease to amaze me. In my many, many years of being a mother, I thought I had seen pretty much all the sneaky and mischievous things you were capable of...but once again...you have surprised me. The entire summer I was feeling very sorry for you and your major sinus and ear issues. I mean seriously, child, you have been on and off antibiotics for almost the entire summer to cure those nasty ears that keep draining and smelling like something I can't even describe...antibiotics, ear drops, repeat. I was really concerned when the doctor told me to stop calling him and go back to the ENT, because there was nothing more he could do. So I took you...still feeling so extremely bad because I knew that once again the ENT would resort to tubes. Oh, but he's such a great doctor...I totally trust what he says. I have to admit your poor mama was deeply concerned after he examined you and found the culprit for the ear issues. So my sweet baby, would you like to explain how something got shoved up your nose so far that he was unable to even see what was up there?

So tomorrow, when you have surgery to remove that foreign object that was shoved up your nose...make sure to thank the ENT since he has decided to go ahead and give you the works...clean out those sinuses and your ears...insert new tubes...and check all your other facial opening for foreign objects! Gotta love Abby!

A whole new level of crazy...

2011-07-16T20:38:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Noah and I decided that we HAD to go to Wal-mart...we just couldn't put off the inevitable any longer. So we loaded TWO cars and headed to the place that always seems to take all your hard earned money and not think twice. We arrived and proceeded to place the 6 of the 7 miniature residents of the house of crazy into 3 different shopping carts...one which was pushed by me, one by Noah, and one by Hannah. The kiddos were doing FANTASTIC...really, they were all perfect angels...when out of nowhere one of those wonderful, women in blue came running up to our caravan of shopping carts. Noah and I looked at each other waiting to hear the words..."Your kids did (fill in the blank)". In my little mind I thought...seriously, what could 6 contained children possible get into...maybe one of them had broken something...or maybe the observant employee was returning something that one of those precious angels threw out of the cart...or maybe one of them escaped and that nice lady was just returning my sweet baby, even though I knew in my mind she would be very temped to keep my little precious, who wouldn't? Well, my friends...she just took my life to a whole new level of crazy. That super sweet lady in blue that works so hard day in and out to make our shopping experiences so much better wanted to know if we had any more openings in our daycare...Hmmm!

So, there was just one thing to do that would make my crazy life seem NORMAL...I had to find chocolate...sugar...anything sweet! My friends, I found it...and it was on the bakery clearance rack!

So the little Enskats had a taste of sweet indulgence and were lovin' it...

Even Yuri loved the icing...but one taste of sweet paradise was enough to put this youngin in a sugar overload...Sorry Autumn, he's got a sweet tooth!

Oh how they enjoyed their treats...but the next morning I was a super, blessed mama to some colorful surprises...in their DIAPERS!

Your never fully dressed...

2011-07-13T21:36:00.000-05:00

...without a SMILE

...and your new spectacles!

There's a new kid in town...

2011-07-12T19:08:00.001-05:00

Yep...there sure is! Little Yuri Winkles made the long journey from Texas and arrived in sweet home Alabama to the house of crazy...aka the Enskat home!

Many of you have followed Yuri's journey from an orphanage in Ukraine to his arrival in Texas and have been there to support the Winks through the ups and downs of their adoption journey...if your just meeting this precious boy, you can check out the beginning of Yuri's story here.

In my little mind, I thought I would just crop Yuri out of the pictures I post and not reveal to the world that he is here, but Autumn...aka Mrs Winks...felt differently. There have been so many Yuri lovers out there and she wanted them to be able to follow along through the next chapter. She is an amazing woman I tell ya! So I will do my best to keep you updated as Yuri makes his place in the house of crazy.

Yuri has been with us for a little over 2 weeks now and he is doing fantastic. He is second to the youngest in the pecking order...Yuri and Timofey are 6 days apart...but size wise and developmentally...he's the baby and trust me, he LOVES every minute of it. Every place the little Enskats venture off to...Yuri in not far behind. He actually PLAYS with them! So the quad clan has welcomed a new member and become the quints...and those 5 will keep you on your toes!

Yuri is a huge Hannah fan...like the rest of the crew. Hannah is so patient and loving that it's hard not to be enamored with her. He loves swimming...loud, obnoxious toys...playing in the kitchen cabinets...and he hates to hear the word "no". Hmmm...sounds like everyone of my kids.

He has adjusted beautifully and is loving all the attention...even Abby's attention! That's huge, because if you know Abby...she is a rough little girl. She is so loving...really...she is...she just loves people who are smaller than she is and thinks it's okay to throw them around like rag dolls. But Yuri loves it! The rougher she is with him the louder he laughs.

So there you have it...a taste of what's going on here. It's been a fun...wild...crazy ride, but we are loving every minute of it. We are excited to see what the Lord has planned for us...and for Yuri. Stay tunned for the rest of the story!

She is home....

2011-07-08T21:00:00.000-05:00

Thirteen months ago, we completed the beautiful journey that the Lord sent us on. To be honest, I thought the day we left Ukraine and landed back in America would be the happiest day of my life, but the truth is...it was one of the hardest. I have poured my heart out to all of you about a precious little girl that we fell in love with...then had to turn our backs on and walk away from. The thought of her remaining behind those orphanage gates consumed my thoughts day in and out...but the Lord was up to something miraculous and the little girl that had stolen my heart all those months ago has arrived home to the land of the free. She is free to love and be loved, free to be the beautiful little girl the Lord created her to be, free to contribute to a society that accepts her for who she is and does not write her off, free to be a daughter and a sister...she is finally free!

Welcome home Eliisa Vika-Faith Koenig...

Check out the Koenig family blog here

It's gotta be hard...

2011-06-30T10:59:00.000-05:00

...to be this stinkin cute!

Is your child with special needs making you age faster?...

2011-06-24T19:23:00.000-05:00

Since it is the season of re-runs...I decided to try out the Netflix and came across a National Geographic documentary called Stress-Portrait of a Killer. Being that I am the documentary guru that I am (yes, I'm a nerd) I thought to myself, "Hmmm...stress?...who the heck isn't stressed? Maybe I should check this out and just maybe I can give the world an answer as to why everyone is so stressed". I know you all think like that too...you want to do the world a service and solve all the problems that society is facing :).

Well, little did I know that this would come back and bite me in the butt. Not to spoil the plot of this production, but the documentary was geared towards studying stress in humans and how it affected the human lifespan. How did they study this you ask...well baboons of course! By studying these fascinating creatures, scientists were able to determine how stress affected their health and lifespan, because apparently, baboons live under constant stress. Who would have thought...right?

So scientist decided to start testing humans. They searched for human beings who live under CONSTANT stress. Guess who they picked...MOMS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS! These scientists tested and studied and tested and studied...

Their conclusion: A mother of a child with special needs ages 6 years for every 1 year of raising that child.
WHY: It's simple...raising a child with special needs is the most stressful job EVER!

So if my calculations are right and it's 6 years of aging for every 1 year of raising...then you multiply that by 4...I'M ONE OLD MAMA...so I'm aging 24 years for every birthday I hit.

Don't worry my friends...there is hope for us yet. Studies show that women who are actively involved in support groups can reduce their stress levels. So now...In order to help all my good friends out...I vote we start a support group to help us all live longer, stress-free lives...any takers?

Happy Birthday Varia...

2011-06-23T19:56:00.001-05:00

Since I have been having serious technical difficulties here, I have been unable to post...so I have tons to fill you in on, but first thing first...

Happy 4th Birthday Varvara Lucille...

As I sit here thinking about the last year of your life...I am amazed. A year ago, you were a scared, lonely little person with a fragile little soul. You cried at every new thing or new person that was introduced into your life. You were content to be alone in a corner and had very little interaction with anyone. Many days I wondered if things would ever get better and many nights my heart broke as I listened to you cry yourself to sleep. But...WOW...have things changed. As those walls around your guarded heart began to come down...you started to trust us and know you belong. The child that preferred to be alone...has become a social butterfly who wants to be the center of attention. We had some major bonding issues...and now...you are like a magnet. You are loved and treasured. We are so proud of the beautiful little girl you are. Happy Birthday my sweet girl!

And the Winners Are...

2011-06-12T19:34:00.001-05:00

First...I want to thank all of you for donating and spreading the word about the giveaway. In the end...almost $1,700 was raised to help the Houser family with airfare...that's a plane ticket...yay!

Right now, this sweet little girl..

...is just a few days away from meeting her mama and papa

...just a few days away from being held, and kissed, and loved
All because of your help!

And the Winners Are:

Kindle- Carolyn Schwenzer

Outfit #1- Crystal Britzius

Doll - Renee Tam

Outfit #2 - Michael Dahlen

Hair Bow set - Charissa Browning

Toffee #1 - Carolyn Schwenzer

Toffee #2 - Christina Lunn

Target Gift Card - Leigh Walters

Olive Garden Gift Card -Carolyn Schwenzer

If you won something...please leave a comment with your name

and address and we will get your goodies to you!

Love Takes You In Giveaway...

2011-06-05T17:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I introduced you to a sweet, little, blue-eyed beauty who is sitting in an orphanage this very minute waiting for her family. Sweet Sveta is not even aware that her world is about to be forever changed. The Houser family...Eli, Kim, Peyton, and Paige are busy preparing...Eli and Kim are heading to eastern Europe...and Peyton and Paige are preparing their little selves to be without their parents. The Housers have faced many difficult times over the years. Just 6 short years ago...they gave their daughter, Emma, back to her creator. I can't imagine the pain of losing a child...or the empty place in their hearts...but I am certain that if Emma were here to tell her mama and daddy one last thing...Emma would tell them how proud she was that they said yes to God...yes to rescuing her sister, Sveta.

For six years now...the Housers have been missing a piece of their family...but God has comforted them and filled them with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Over the past six years, He has guided them and molded them into loving, compassionate, and such giving people as He prepared their family for the little girl He has chosen to fill their missing piece...

So now...it is our job as followers of Christ and the voice for the fatherless to get this sweet girl home. Some really awesome gals have joined forces with me to get this sweet princess home...and all because we love Sveta. The best part is...the Housers have NO CLUE what's going on! Here we go...

The Love Takes You In Giveaway...

Up for grabs:

All-New, High-Contrast E Ink Screen – 50% better contrast with latest E Ink Pearl technology

Read in Bright Sunlight – No glare
New and Improved Fonts – New crisper, darker fonts
New Sleek Design – 21% smaller body while keeping the same 6" size reading area
17% Lighter – Only 8.5 ounces, weighs less than a paperback
Battery Life of Up to Two Months – A single charge lasts up to two months with wireless off
Double the Storage – Up to 3,500 books
Built-In Wi-Fi – Shop and download books in less than 60 seconds
20% Faster Page Turns – Seamless reading
Enhanced PDF Reader – With dictionary lookup, notes, and highlights
WebKit-Based Browser – Browse the web over Wi-Fi

Custom Outfit #1

Becky creates such beautiful outfits...She will create your princess one of these beautiful, one of a kind party ensembles...complete with matching hairbow. You will be seeing the Enskat cuties rockin these little party gowns later this month as we celebrate their first American birthdays...but here is a sneak peak...

Alina in the flower shirt and Nina in the cake shirt...

too cute girls!

A custom doll

Becky will create a custom doll that your little princess is sure to love...

Check them out...they are precious!

Custom outfit #2

Becky is one insanely talented and generous person...she is offering a second custom outfit

for one of you lucky readers.

Alina is getting good at the modeling thing...she's a natural!

Wait...there's more

A collection of hair pretties

Becky will create a collection of hair accessories for your little lady. Really, no outfit is

complete without a hairbow

White Chocolate Toffee

If you have not indulged in Renee Tam's toffee...you are missing out. It is sinfully delicious and Renee is going to send not one...but two lucky people some of her mouth watering toffee straight from Paisley's Pantry

Yum...

Nope...not done yet

Up next...

A $50 Target Gift Card

It's Target...Need I say more?

And last but not least...

A $25 Gift Card from Olive Garden

Yay...you can take your sweetie out to dinner and no...a babysitter is not included

So there you have it!

Here's how you can get in on all these awesome goodies...

1. For every $10 donated...you will be entered in the giveaway

2. Purchase a t-shirt or car decal and you will also be entered in the giveaway 1 time

3. Post on your blog, facebook, or twitter and you will be entered into the giveaway 1 time per day

The Love Takes You In Giveaway starts today and ends Friday, June 10th at midnight.

Alina will draw the winners on Saturday, June 11th

If you donate or post...please leave a comment so I can be sure you are entered the

correct number of times.

The Housers are trying to raise the funds needed for airfare...

approximately $4000 for Eli, Kim, and Sveta's tickets.

There is a chip-in button at the top, right hand corner of this post...donate there!

All donations are TAX DEDUCTIBLE through Circle of Hope.

Happy Birthday Nina...

2011-06-04T15:57:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday to my little princess in training. Last year, you celebrated your birthday a free little girl. It was your first day of living on the other side of the orphanage gates. You were a scared, timid little person seeing parts of your homeland that you had never seen with those beautiful, blue eyes. You got to taste new things, explore unfamiliar territory, and witness a whole new life. Oh what I would give to see through your eyes on your first day of freedom and to know what was going through that little mind that first car ride, during that first bath, and that long plane ride where you arrived in YOUR new home and met YOUR family for the first time.

Now, a year later...that once timid little girl has been replaced by a happy, confident, and loved little princess in the making. Don't get me wrong...you still drive me crazy when you mix up the dirty laundry with the clean, use the toilet as a swimming pool, and pour your apple juice in your little potty to make me think you peed...but I never said you were an angel...just a precious, curious, adventurous little girl. I'm so happy that the Lord felt you belonged here and honored to be your mommy. I hope your first American birthday has shown you to dream big, because you are valued, cherished, and oh so loved! Happy Birthday Nina!

Love Takes You In giveaway...

2011-06-03T21:20:00.001-05:00

The Love Takes You In Giveaway...

Up for grabs:

All-New, High-Contrast E Ink Screen – 50% better contrast with latest E Ink Pearl technology

Custom Outfit #1

Alina in the flower shirt and Nina in the cake shirt...

too cute girls!

A custom doll

Becky will create a custom doll that your little princess is sure to love...

Check them out...they are precious!

Custom outfit #2

Becky is one insanely talented and generous person...she is offering a second custom outfit

for one of you lucky readers.

Alina is getting good at the modeling thing...she's a natural!

Wait...there's more

A collection of hair pretties

Becky will create a collection of hair accessories for your little lady. Really, no outfit is

complete without a hairbow

White Chocolate Toffee

Yum...

Nope...not done yet

Up next...

A $50 Target Gift Card

It's Target...Need I say more?

And last but not least...

A $25 Gift Card from Olive Garden

Yay...you can take your sweetie out to dinner and no...a babysitter is not included

So there you have it!

Here's how you can get in on all these awesome goodies...

1. For every $10 donated...you will be entered in the giveaway

2. Purchase a t-shirt or car decal and you will also be entered in the giveaway 1 time

3. Post on your blog, facebook, or twitter and you will be entered into the giveaway 1 time per day

The Love Takes You In Giveaway starts today and ends Friday, June 10th at midnight.

Alina will draw the winners on Saturday, June 11th

If you donate or post...please leave a comment so I can be sure you are entered the

correct number of times.

The Housers are trying to raise the funds needed for airfare...

approximately $4000 for Eli, Kim, and Sveta's tickets.

There is a chip-in button at the top, right hand corner of this post...donate there!

All donations are TAX DEDUCTIBLE through Circle of Hope.

Helping the Housers save Sveta...

2011-06-02T20:56:00.002-05:00

Almost a year ago I saw this sweet girl for the first time. I had noticed her picture before, but this was different...this time I saw her in person..she was a real human being...a beautiful REAL little girl. I first noticed her as I was walking around the orphanage grounds with my girls. She was hanging onto the playground fence watching our every move. As I stared into her big blue eyes and saw how those eyes looked at my girls almost as if she was wondering when her turn was going to come?...why wasn't she chosen?...when was her mama and papa going to rescue her? For weeks I saw sweet Sveta...although there was a huge difference in our languages...our hearts could both understand...the smiles, the waves, the love. Sveta, like Vika, was one of those children I could never get out of my mind. I prayed that the Lord would speak to a family and they would say...WE WILL GO! As I sit here thinking back over the past few months and how Sveta's story has played out so far...all I can really say is it was such a God thing. Back in August, I met a really awesome family...the Houser family. We talked, laughed together, cried together. They even came to the Buddy Walk where I got to finally meet them. Over the next few months, I shared our adoption journey with Kim. I talked to her about all the beautiful children we left behind...I would have never imagined that the Lord was up to something so awesome. At that very moment He started working in Kim and Eli's hearts...and told them to GO. The Housers said YES to God...YES to Sveta...and they are going...IN 9 DAYS to be exact. But they still have one thing standing in their way...$3000.00 for airfare...that's all! So the Houser family is in need of some fast cash...and you can help.

First...The Housers are selling t-shirts deigned by Hope-to-Home. They are so cute...and I will totally be rockin one when I am anxiously waiting at the airport for Sveta's arrival home. You can go here to check out the t-shirts.

Up Next...your car is not complete until it is decorated with one of these awesome car decals...

The decals are $10 each and will be mailed to you from me personally. What a great conversation starter when your loading your groceries in the Walmart parking lot...right? Just visit the Houser's blog and click on the chip-in button labeled "Airfare"...please make sure to specify that you want a decal. Then, leave a comment here with your name and address...and no, I won't publish your address!

A good friend once said...It takes a village to bring home a child...please be a part of Sveta's village.

Only for Olga...

2011-05-30T15:05:00.000-05:00

What a weekend FULL of blessings...many of you awesome people donated to "Operation Surprise Renee" and now she has over $10,000 to bring Paisley home. I KNOW my friend was so surprised. She got online to let everyone know that she shipped her dossier to Paisley's country and she was blown away by the increase in her FSP account! Awesome! And...let's not forget my friend Jenn who was trying to raise the money needed to send her application to immigration...mission accomplished! You all helped raise the money needed for that AND build Olga's house. What an awesome act of LOVE.

So...there's only one thing left to do. Mr. Enskat...it's time to pay up. If y'all have forgotten...my lovely husband, Noah, said there was NO way a bunch of women could build a house. Ha! So now Noah is rockin' a fabulous shade of pink. Don't believe me...well check this out....

Love it! Wow...it takes a real man to rock that shade of pink!

Farewell to another school year...

2011-05-27T20:32:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents,

I give you back your child, the same child you confidently entrusted to my care last fall. I give her back pounds heavier, inches taller, months wiser, more responsible, and more mature than she was back then, although this growth would have attained in spite of me.

It has been my happy privilege to watch your child's personality unfold day by day and marvel at this splendid miracle of development. I have thrilled at each new achievement, each new success, every achievement of self. I give your child back reluctantly, for having spent nine months together in the narrow confines of a crowded classroom, we have grown close to each other and we shall always retain a little of each other.

Ten years from now, if we meet on the street, your child and I will have a light that will spring to our eyes, a smile to our lips, and we shall feel that bond of understanding once more, this bond we feel today. We have lived, loved, laughed, played, studied, learned, and enriched our lives together this year. I wish it could go on indefinitely, but give her back I must. Take care of your special child, for this little person is precious.

Remember that I shall always be interested in your child and her destiny, wherever she goes, does, or becomes. The joys and sorrows I'll be happy to share. I shall always be her friend...

Love,

The Limestone County Teachers

Shhh...

2011-05-26T19:37:00.000-05:00

There's a big secret going around bloggy world....involving my friend Renee Tam. Ya'll have heard me talk about her a million times, because I love her to pieces! I met Renee through another adoptive mom...and we just hit it off...maybe because we are just two crazy southern women who have a deep love for the fatherless...who knows. Renee has one of the most loving and giving hearts...and I am always amazed at all the things she comes up with to help other mamas get to their babies. The crazy thing is...she is trying to get to her daughter too. There have been many families who are so close to traveling, yet still so short on funds, and Renee drops everything to help. She is an amazing woman that I am honored to call my friend.

So what's the big secret? Well recently, Renee needed to "check out" for a little bit. I tell you, international adoption is a financial mountain to climb in itself...but it really takes a toll on your emotions too. So Renee is taking a little break from blogging, facebook, and all other social media outlets that gets a kick out of. While she is gone...Operation surprise Renee Tam is taking place. We are hoping that when Renee joins us again here in our little cyber world that we can all show her how much we love and appreciate her by having Paisley's adoption fully funded...she is so close to having all the funds she needs

...to bring this sweet girl home...

So if you love Renee as much as I do...visit the Tam's fundraising page

and donate to help bring Paisley home!

The house that LOVE...steppin it up

2011-05-25T20:31:00.000-05:00

Meet Olga...isn't she just a baby doll? This is the sweet girl that my friend Jenn is adopting...this is the sweet girl that we are all trying so hard to build a home for. I know that I posted about this fundraiser a few days ago...but there have been a few things that are going to give Olga's home a whole new twist. You see, my friend Jenn was desperate....like any good mama...she is desperate to get Olga home. Olga is 5 and has spent her entire life in an orphanage. If you want to know my opinion...and I know you do because you are visiting my blog...that is 5 years too many for this sweet girl. So Jenn has been trying to scrape together the money she needs to send her immigration application to USCIS...the cost is $880...seriously, that is all she is trying to raise here. The immigration approval aka the golden ticket is the final piece of paper she needs to ship her dossier to Olga's country and get permission to visit and FREE this princess.

So back to the changes...ya'll are all very familiar with my friend Renee. She sent Jenn an email telling her to take her baby off the clearance rack...Olga is priceless. And you know what...Renee is so right. So we are steppin it up here and asking you kind, hearted, loving friends to please donate $5 per brick. When all the bricks are sold and Olga's house is built, Jenn will have enough to send in her USCIS application...how awesome is that?

So this leads me to the challenge. By now, you are all very familiar with my crazy, sometimes better half, Noah. I was telling Noah about what a neat idea building Olga a house is. He said he thought it was "cute", BUT building a house was one of those things that should be left to a man...EXCUSE ME MR ENSKAT...did I seriously hear those words come out of your mouth? So Noah has challenged us. He said that if we sell all the bricks to Olga's house by Memorial Day...he will dye his hair a shade of PINK that will put mine to shame. So there you have it my friends...we have until Monday to sell all the bricks and Jenn will have her USCIS application funding...and I will have...well, a husband with PINK hair. There are only 80 bricks left...please spread the word.

Because this handsome fellow...

...will look a whole lot prettier in the perfect shade of PINK!

Visit Jenn's blog and buy yourself some bricks!

No time for sickies...

2011-05-24T20:02:00.000-05:00

Well...this week is shaping up to be even crazier than I anticipated. Being the obsessive planner that I am...I comfortably scheduled in 4 IEPs...3 awards ceremonies at 3 different schools on 3 different days...3 class parties at 3 different school ALL ON THE SAME DAY...BUT nowhere in my schedule do I recall penciling in 5 doctor appointments for 5 sick kids. Regardless...it happened! Now I have two with ear infections and three with severe sinus infections and I'm on a mad medicine dash to get them healthy for their awards days and parties on Thursday and Friday.

Even in their sickly state...they are so darn cute! Isn't he just so pitiful...

Goodbye 2nd grade...

2011-05-23T15:55:00.000-05:00

It's only Monday and what an exhausting week this is going to be. Between all the IEP meetings...awards days...and last days of school...the Enskat clan is going to be constantly on the go. Today was Hannah's day. She had her awards day today...and let me tell ya...this little girl cleaned that school out of awards. To say that I am proud of her...well, that just doesn't even begin to express how I feel. This little girl has amazed me this year...LOOK at all those awards...

Hannah's list of awards included...the honor roll, spelling award, reading award, Bible award, phonics award, and the penmanship award. We do really push her to excel academically, but we also push her to accept everyone and love them the way God created them. You see, we have always tried to teach her to be Christ-like in all she does. Hannah has a heart of gold...and I truly believe that she is so compassionate because of her siblings...they too have taught Hannah a thing or two. So today, Hannah received an award that, to me, shows that she has accomplished so much more this year then just excelling academically...she excelled at being a good neighbor, student, and classmate. Hannah received something today that she will treasure for the rest of her life...the Citizenship Award...

I am so proud of her. As we walked the halls of Faith Christian Academy for the last time we were saddened. There will be many teachers, students, and faculty that we will forever miss, but we are excited about the new path the Lord is leading us down. Next year...Hannah will be reunited with Abby in the educational world as she starts 3rd grade at Blue Springs Elementary School. It was a very hard decision for us to leave FCA...Hannah has been there since K4...she loves it and has many friends, but the cost of a private education is something that we can no longer rationalize so it's time to say goodbye. I have no doubt that Hannah will do great in her new school and I am excited that my girls will once again go to school together!

The house that LOVE built...

2011-05-22T20:30:00.000-05:00

I have said it a MILLION times...but I will never be ungrateful for the many people that the Lord has allowed me to cross paths with as I strolled down the path of international adoption. Really, it's not that we share so many of the same interests...we simply have all traveled down the same road. That crazy...unpredictable...life-changing...road called ADOPTION. We have been there for each other through it all and it has become so much more than simply a friendship...these people have become family. There are two really awesome women that I LOVE. They are amazing people who will do anything to help anyone...and now they need our help. I have blogged about both of them before and I will do whatever it takes to help them get their girls home. You see...my friends Renee and Jenn are adopting from an INSANELY expensive country. No...it's not the same place we adopted from, but to put the price tag of the daughters' lives in perspective...their fees for ONE child are more than our fees were for THREE. They need our help. Jenn is hosting a little fundraiser on her blog...and being the totally awesome person that she is...part of the proceeds will be donated to Renee.

Here is how you can help...

Visit Jenn's blog and donate to help build a home for Olga. Each lego brick is $1 donation...ONE DOLLAR...that's all. I'm sure most of us can scrape that up from under the couch cushions...but that dollar will save not ONE...but TWO little girls.

You can also help by simply posting this fundraiser on facebook or your blog. I know my friends are so grateful for all your help to spread the word!

Say What?...

2011-05-21T19:15:00.000-05:00

What Not to Say to Special Needs Parents...
By: Julia Roberts

Recently a thread started on Support for Special Needs.com about what we wish people didn’t say to us. Given that we’re all different I’m sure not everyone will agree with each mention on this list but many of the items that people wrote in about resonated with other community members. A lot of the items resonated with me.

While we all agree we have the one or few that really bug us, most of us agree that most people who say these things aren’t mean spirited people. They simply don’t understand what they are saying is hurtful, annoying or bothersome. Maybe if we share this post with people in each of our lives, we’ll educate people on what we’d find helpful NOT to say to us…

- God only gives us what we can handle; He must think you two are special parents

- Using the word “Austistics” to describe people on the spectrum.

- Remember, you have to take care of yourself, so you can take care of them.

- He’ll speak when he’s ready to.

- When looking at my son using a reverse walker, “Wow, we need to get one of those for my (typical) 10 month old so he/she can walk better!”

- They’ll EAT when they’re ready. They’re not going to starve to death.

- You are so much stronger than me… I don’t know how you do it

- Pointing out that my non-walker shouldn’t be in a stroller, not knowing he can’t walk.

- That my child is just playing us.

- They just need discipline.

- You two are amazing for adopting two special-needs children. They are SO LUCKY.”

- Family and friends that downplay a diagnosis.

- For a child that has tics, saying, “Do you think she is doing it for attention?”

- Anything that implies that sensory issues are not real or that we’re playing into their “fear.”

- When people say they are sorry or offer condolences for a child with disabilities.

- Any comment that starts with “If you would just…”

- What’s wrong with her?

- Don’t worry she’ll catch up.

- She’ll grow out of it.

- Is your other son/daughter “normal”? or “Are your other kids ok? (As if to imply the child with the disability is not?)

- You are so much stronger than me and/or I don’t know how you do it.

I thought I would end this with a paragraph about the well-intentioned people and go into something about the people who talk without thinking, obviously, we think to ourselves. But I decided to open up a thread on what we’d like to hear from people. So here is the YES! SAY THIS! Instead list…

- I’ll be over on Saturday to help do laundry/wash dishes/scrub floors!

- I don’t know what to say to you, but I love you.

- How are you doing? (and actually listen to the answer)

- Quote from Elaine Hall: “How Can I Help?”

- Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you.

- I just made an extra dinner when I was cooking for us, can I drop it by now?

- I know you had an appointment yesterday, how did it go?

- Want to drop your kids off with us for an hour or so? (Because people are afraid to take care of my kids, when this happens, it feels like acceptance and support.)

- I’m on my way to the store, want me to grab you some milk or bread?

- Need any help at bedtime with the kids?

- I’m coming over to watch the kids right now for an hour so you can take a nap.

- We’re on our way to take care of the yard work.

- Sounds like you’re doing a great job.

- Here’s some things that worked for us. (preferably from people who “get it.”)

These are just a sampling of what some Support for Special Needs community members preferred…obviously, we’re all different and some on either list may or may not resonate with a particular parent of kids with special needs. Again, for me, I never got mad about kids asking questions or parents helping their child ask a respectful question. I always minded rude adults who encouraged rudeness in their kids. I never minded any of the items on the NOT list from people who cared about me because I knew their intentions were good. As the years go on I am better about saying why something bothers to the person so they understand.

One thing seems to be across the board though; special needs parents would like people to think before they speak, especially in front of their children. We’d like people to see our kids as people, with feelings. I’d like people to know that when they see what they perceive as a negative is not necessarily a negative. A woman once said to me, “She’s just walking? How old is she?” On a strong parenting day, as I like to call them, I excitedly said, “Yes! She’s young! I think it’s absolutely fabulous she’s walking!” Not sure when my daughter would take her first steps we were thrilled she was walking independently by age three.

Timofey's new wheels...

2011-05-20T17:25:00.000-05:00

I was really hoping that Timofey would at least be 45 16 before he got his first set of wheels...but the truth is...he was in major need of transportation. I mean seriously...how cool does it look to be toted around on your mama's hip at 3 years-old. It really had to be so embarrassing for my little man...all his friends have their own rides...why couldn't he have one too? Well my friends...today was the day my sweet boy has been waiting for. Timofey's new set of wheels arrived and she is a beauty...shiny black exterior that is trimmed in the brightest lime green. But it doesn't stop there...this was a custom job complete with a personalized driver's seat. Oh Tima...your friends are going to be insanely jealous when you cruise down the hallways in this...

With a piece of machinery this impressive...I had to set Timofey down and go over the rules:

1. Do not run over anyone

okay...that's all I could come up with...but he really listened so attentively!

Me and my gang...

2011-05-19T18:59:00.000-05:00

I'm officially out of hibernation! It's been a long and busy couple of weeks...but I'm back and ready to fill you in on all the Enskat happenings that I have been slacking on posting about. This is an exciting time for us...for those of you who have followed our journey, TODAY marks the one year anniversary of when it all began. A year ago today we made our way to the State Department of Adoption in Ukraine to officially request the referrals of three little dumplings that we knew little about, but loved so much. The journey has not always been easy...in fact, it has been hard...very hard. But when we choose to follow God's call...He never once tells us that it will be an easy ride...He only promises to be with us every step of the way. I would have never envisioned myself as one that was capable of adopting three more children with special needs and being able to stay sane with six kids under the age of 8..but I have learned an important lesson and that is God doesn't call the qualified...He qualifies the called. I have been blessed with everything I needed at just the exact time that I needed it. I have met some of my greatest and most dearest friends on this journey...adoption truly is such a beautiful blessing.

You know your a mother when...

2011-05-08T11:11:00.000-05:00

You Know You're a Mother When ...

You count the sprinkles on each kid's cupcake to make sure they're equal.

You have time to shave only one leg at a time.

You hide in the bathroom to be alone.

Your kid throws-up and you catch it.

Someone else's kid throws up at a party. You keep eating.

As you cling to the high moral ground on toy weapons; your child chews his toast into the shape of a gun.

You hope ketchup is a vegetable, since it's the only one your child eats.

You find yourself cutting your husband's sandwiches into cute shapes.

You hear your mother's voice coming out of your mouth when you say, "NOT in your good clothes!"

You stop criticizing the way your mother raised you.

You donate to charities in the hope that your child won't get that disease.

You hire a sitter because you haven't been out with your husband in ages, then spend half the night checking on the kids.

You use your own saliva to clean your child's face.

You plan your day according to when Sesame Street is on.

You have signed a check with a crayon.

You find Goldfish crackers in the glove box of your car.

You wipe other kids' noses.

You have accidentally brushed your teeth with Desitin.
You leave for a date with your husband carrying a diaper bag instead of your purse.

You have memorized the entire lineup of Saturday morning cartoons.

You have finally paid for all of your groceries and are heading out of the doors when you realize one of your kids has lost a shoe somewhere in the store.

You can recite Goodnight Moon and Green Eggs and Ham by heart.

You let your baby sit in his dirty diaper until Oprah is over.

You have shared a fifteen-minute conversation about your baby with a complete stranger at the grocery store.

You filled up your child's baby book before her first tooth appeared.

You silently curse people if they call during naptime.

You forgot your mother-in-law's first name because you now only refer to her as "Grandma."

You arrange your travel itinerary based on McDonald's Playland locations.

You are just as surprised when you sleep through the night as when your child does.

You consider the person who invented the Sippy Cup a genius.

You see a mom from your child's playgroup at the mall and know her son's name but not hers.

You consider it a major triumph if you shower by noon.

You justify every excessive crying spell with teething.

You pick up the phone and call your mother when your baby rolls over for the first time.

You have kept your favorite babysitter a secret from other mothers in your playgroup.

You have your pediatrician's telephone number on speed-dial.

You own the entire Baby Einstein DVD collection.

You find yourself humming the "Rubber Duckie" song in the shower.

You have dressed your baby in whatever is on top of the clean laundry pile.

You cry at Johnson & Johnson commercials.

You have considered trading your whole life savings for just one good night of sleep.

You see your parents in a whole new light.

You say at least once a day, "I'm not cut out for this job", but you know you wouldn't trade it for anything".

Happy Mother's Day to all you

awesome mamas...the world is a

better place because of moms!

I will stand by you...

2011-05-05T13:59:00.001-05:00

A way YOU can help...

2011-04-29T10:48:00.000-05:00

For every "like" on their Alabama Ford Facebook page $1 will be donated to the Red Cross Tornado Relief efforts.
http://www.facebook.com/AlabamaFord

A Community on Our Knees...

2011-04-28T17:12:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to post and let everyone know we are all alive and praising God for that. Yesterdays storms ripped through north Alabama sparing no mercy to anyone or anything in their path. Please pray for my community...there are still many, MANY people missing, millions without power, and thousands homeless. It is devastating. I will update you as soon as possible.

Varia's Big Day...

2011-04-27T14:31:00.000-05:00

What a day! Varia and I left our house at 5:30 this morning to make the long journey to the hospital. We only had to go through a few torrential downpours and a couple tornadoes...but we made it!

While Varia and her new ankle accessory got acquainted...I was busy wondering what was going on at the hospital. The place was PACKED! Could they be offering free liposuction and I was not informed? Nope...of course not. Turns out the hospital is a tornado shelter. So let me get this right...people leave the protection of their house and get in their car to DRIVE to the hospital in a tornado? Only in the South!

It didn't take long and this little chub was called to pre-op. I haven't decided yet if I get amused or annoyed with all the looks the hospital staff gives me when my answer to their millions of pre-surgery questions is "I don't know". Like...

Nurse: Is there a family history of complications from anesthesia

Me: I don't know

Nurse: Has she ever had any complications from surgery

Me: I don't know

Nurse: Is there a family history of heart problems or cancer

Me: I don't know

Nurse: Did she have any breathing problems at birth?

Me: You know...I really don't know

Me: Ooops...Did I forget to tell you she was adopted? Shame on me!

Who am I kidding...I get amused. If they would take just a minute and actually read the chart they would clearly see on the very first page that it said in big bold letters...

CHILD'S HISTORY UNKNOWN. CHILD HAS ONLY BEEN IN THE CUSTODY OF

ADOPTIVE PARENTS FOR 10 MONTHS

About an hour and two tornado warnings later...I was reunited with my pink footed princess...

She was a little "drunk" and ready to be unplugged from all the annoying beeping monitors...but most importantly, she was ready for FOOD!

We have made it home and the princess and her new pink feet are catching up on

some beauty sleep...this mama is off to join her!

I am adopted...

2011-04-26T10:11:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love the band Third Day...they are awesome and HUGE advocates for adoption. The band is asking adoptive families to send them a photo of their adopted child(ren) holding a sign that simply says "adopted". The group is then going to take these awesome pictures and show the world all the super cute kids that became a part of a family through the blessing of adoption. They are going to use YOUR pictures in their shows...how awesome is that!

Well, Third Day...I had my work cut out for me. If you are not aware of it yet...it is really hard to get three 3 year-olds to sit nicely...look at the camera...and all hold a sign where the individual looking at the picture would be able to read what it said. I tried...it didn't work. The signs were ripped...eaten...and thrown into the air like confetti. So this is all you get! Maybe their super cute chubby sweetness will help them make the cut...what do ya think?

All about our Easter...

2011-04-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a blessed Easter...we sure did! The Easter bunny was very generous to the little Enskats. This was Nina, Varia, and Timofey's first Easter...not sure what they thought about all the madness. Our house seems to be the common gathering grounds for family get togethers...which works out great for us, because we don't have to take our mosters to someone else's crib and pray they don't destroy their precious possessions.

We ate ourselves silly, had an Easter egg hunt, enjoyed being a family, and praised the Lord for His sacrifice so that we have eternal life! Here are a few pictures from our first Easter together...

Yes...my children really do own shoes!

He is Risen...

2011-04-24T05:40:00.000-05:00

"He is not here;

                HE HAS RISEN,

                                 as He said."
                                              (Matthew 28:6)

The stalwart guards stood watch that day
around a dead man's grave.
Not mindful that He was the Lord,
they stood there, bold and brave,
till all at once they fell away
without a chance to fight,
for Jesus had returned to life,
and vanquished sin's dark night.

The angel band drew near to praise
and glorify their King.
They crowded in to worship Him
and hallelujahs sing:
for they had longed to comfort Him
as on the cross He hung,
but He bore all the suffering,
this Savior, God's own Son.

My sin was pardoned on the tree
that held this blessed Christ;
He took the punishment for me
and paid sin's awful price.
Only the perfect lamb of God
could love a wretch like me
enough to die, enough to live,
enough to set me free!

The empty tomb, a witness stark
that Jesus lived again,
and soldiers fearing for their lives
knew Christ was no mere man!

O Jesus Christ, my dearest Friend,
O King of heaven and earth,
Though ages pass, no tongue can tell
the measure of Your worth!

By:Connie Faust

The Empty Egg...

2011-04-23T16:19:00.002-05:00

Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind.

At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises.

At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain.

Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher.

One day she called his parents and asked them to come in for a consultation. As the Forresters entered the empty classroom, Doris said to them, "Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn't fair to him to be with younger children who don't have learning problems. Why, there is a five year gap between his age and that of the other students."

Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. "Miss Miller," he said, "there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here." Doris sat for a long time after they had left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn't fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?

As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. Here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family, she thought. Lord, please help me to be more patient with Jeremy.

From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy's noises and his blank stares. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him.

"I love you, Miss Miller," he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris' face turned red. She stammered ... "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."

Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Miss Miller," the children responded enthusiastically ... all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.

That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.

The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk.

After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower.

"Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said.
"When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here."

A small girl in the first row waved her arm.
"That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out.

The next egg contained a plastic butterfly which looked very real.

Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly.
Yes, that's new life, too."

Little Judy smiled proudly and said,
"Miss Miller, that one is mine."

Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it.

She explained that moss, too, showed life.

Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom "My daddy
helped me," he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg.
She gasped.

The egg was empty.

Surely it must be Jeremy's she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents.

Because she did not want to embarrass him,
she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.

Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up.
"Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?"

Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy, your egg is empty."

He looked into her eyes and said softly ...
"Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too."

Time stopped.

When she could speak again, Doris asked him,
"Do you know why the tomb was empty?"

"Oh, yes," Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there.
Then His Father raised Him up."

The recess bell rang.
While the children excitedly ran out to the school yard ...
Doris cried.
The cold inside her melted completely away.

Three months later, Jeremy died.
Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket ... all of them empty.

Kids in the River...

2011-04-22T15:21:00.000-05:00

Imagine that you and I are walking along a river on a lovely warm and sunny spring day. We are admiring the view over the river. Suddenly, we see something moving in the water and are horrified to realize that it appears to be a baby or a young child. We throw off shoes and jackets and plunge into the water to pull the child out or – if we are physically incapable of doing that – we shout and wave for help and call frantically on our cell phones. The baby is pulled from the water and is, thankfully, alive.

We comfort the child, hold him close to warm him, speak soothingly to him. By now, quite a crowd has gathered due to the commotion and we make way for the emergency medical team, which arrives and begins tending to the child. Suddenly someone in the crowd shouts and points toward the water.

We all look and can’t believe our eyes as we see four more – no – five children being carried along by the current! More people go into the river to pull them out. More cell phones call 911. More emergency vehicles arrive. But even as we pull children to the shore, we glimpse more coming down the river—and more and more.

After awhile, a couple of us, maybe it’s you and I, detach from the crowd on the riverbank and begin walking quickly upstream to try and learn what catastrophe could have occurred up there to cause so many beautiful children to be in the river and in such great peril. We think that maybe we can help. Not one of us, as we see the children in the river and begin pulling them toward shore, would stop and ask the child his age and inquire whether or not he wanted to be pulled out of the water.

Not one of us, upon seeing that the child was a young teenager, would loosen our grip on him and let him float on saying to ourselves, “He’s really too old. He’s been in the water a long time already.”

We presume that this river of ours crosses many state and country boundaries on its travels. Not one of us would stop and inquire which state or country the child was from before bringing him to safety. We would just understand the crisis and jump in. No divisions or barriers or hurdles – very simple: child in the river; pull child to safety!

We who are adoptive parents often speak of our belief that this child who became mine was meant to do so. It seems like such a miracle to us that out of all the children out there waiting for parents and out of all the parents waiting for children, this particular child and I found each other and became a family! We know there is luck involved and timing and a lot of other amorphous factors but it still amazes us how it all came together to make us a family.

We who are adoptive parents know that the children who are waiting for families right now could have

been our children so we cannot turn away or write them off. We can’t leave them in the river to just float on by. After all, our kids were there once and we know what that’s like.

We also know that we can’t adopt all of them! But we sure can make a commotion and get others to the riverbank to become involved. We know that these kids could have been our children and so we accept the responsibility to see that they become somebody’s children.

Maybe we can stop kids from falling in the water

These beautiful children are all available for adoption. Please visit Reece's Rainbow and help pull these precious ones out of the river.

IEPs gone bad...

2011-04-21T14:22:00.000-05:00

Top 10 Signs... That You're Going To Have A Bad IEP Meeting

By Colleen F. Tomko

10.    The IEP invitation lists "drive-thru" hours.

9.     When you get to the meeting, the staff want to know what you are doing there.

8.    They give you complimentary white flags and tissues.

7.     Your child's student ID # is 666.

6.     They try to convince you that the attending speech therapist really is the janitor's identical twin.

5.     You find yourself explaining that... the regs say they can use IU's for related services, not I-O-U's.

4.     The special ed coordinator says 'Have we got a place for your kid?".

3.     They think "inclusion" is some type of venereal disease.

2.     The staff is bumming because their label maker burned out.

1.     You over hear the staff talking about the Least "resisted" environment.

She's almost home...

2011-04-20T11:45:00.000-05:00

She's almost home...so close...I can hardly believe it. The Koeing's dossier has made the long journey over the ocean and arrived safely in Vika's country. The facilitators have translated it into Vika's language and have submitted it to the department that handles adoptions...she's almost home.

Oh, how my heart rejoices for the little girl that I met almost a year ago...the little girl that stole my heart...the little girl that broke what was left of it when I had to walk away for her and leave her. Oh...that special little girl...she's almost home.

Now...her family sits and waits. They wait on just one more thing before they arrive in Vika's country and will finally get to meet the little girl they call daughter. They wait on their travel date! As they wait...they are still trying to raise the remaining funds needed to complete their adoption. I tell ya...it stinks to be so close with just one thing standing in your way...money. BUT...God always provides in our time of need...and He has provided some really amazing people to help finish the fundraising. The Koenigs have received an amazing gift...a matching grant up to $4000 through Lifesong for Orphans. For every $1 the Koenigs

raise, Lifesong will match it...they need to raise $4000 which will be matched giving them $8000 which will equal Vika's adoption will be FULLY FUNDED!

Here is how you can help...visit this blog and donate to the Koenig's grant fund. Your name will be entered into a drawing to win this beautiful diamond necklace...just in time for Mother's Day. As an added bonus...you will receive a printable Mother's Day card letting your mother know that you made a donation in her honor to save Vika. What a wonderful gift to give your mother!

She's coming home...soon...oh, I can't wait. I'm looking forward to the day Vika joins this beautiful family and has a mother to call her own!

Gotta love baby pictures...

2011-04-19T15:45:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine sent me the link to a site that sends items like shoes, clothing, diapers, and other needed supplies to orphanages in Ukraine. One of the orphanages they help is the Nikolaev baby house...which is where Nina, Varia, and Timofey were from. Pretty neat?

So I visited the site and what I saw made my heart jump with excitement. It was this picture....

Do you know who that is? It's my Nina when she was a baby. So I had to contact them...and sure enough...it's Nina when she was around 1. It's so neat to have a baby picture of my sweet girl...and a cute one too!

10 ways to have more fun at your IEP...

2011-04-18T17:06:00.000-05:00

Seriously...this made me laugh hysterically. I really don't see any of these things happening during one of our meetings...but if you know me...you KNOW I'm going to try. I'll be sure to take pictures!

10 Ways To Have More Fun At Your IEP Meeting

1. Wear costumes. On the meeting invitation, say, "Festive Dress Required."

2. As an equalizer, require all attendees to wear Groucho glasses.

3. Require all attendees to bring a musical instrument.

4. Provide refreshments: Jalapeno Cheetos, and red Kool-Aid.

5. Invite Hillary Rodham Clinton. List her name on the cover sheet

6. Try this introductory exercise: If you were a color, what color would you
be and why?

7. Play background music-anything by Frank Zappa.

8. Give everyone a set of five flash cards to be used as the mood strikes:

                  Who invited him?

                   I love your hair! Where did you get it done?

                   I’m sure we can trust that this will get worked out.

                   Does the law have any bearing on this?

                   Excuse me for 10 minutes while I can call my lawyer.

9. Have the TV in the room tuned to the Court Channel.

10. Keep score. Give a really nice door prize to the IEP team member
(parents excluded) who makes the most positive comments about your child.
Award grand prize to the IEP team member who makes the most negative
comments about your child - the winner gets to provide 36 hours of respite
care, in their home, to your child.

Are you just a mom?...

2011-04-17T19:01:00.000-05:00

JUST A MOM?

A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk's office was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.

She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.

"What I mean is," explained the recorder, "do you have a job or are you just a.....?"

"Of course I have a job," snapped the woman.

"I'm a Mom."

"We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it," said the recorder emphatically.

I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.

The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient and possessed of a high sounding title like, "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."

"What is your occupation?" she probed.

What made me say it?

I do not know.

The words simply popped out.

"I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations."

The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and looked up as though she had not heard right.

I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words.

Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written, in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.

"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?"

Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing program of research, [what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out).

I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the whole family) and already have four credits (all daughters).

Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it).

But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money."

There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.

Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6-month-old baby) in the child development program, testing out a new vocal pattern.

I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!

And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mom." Motherhood!

What a glorious career!

Especially when there's a title on the door.

Does this make grandmothers "Senior Research associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations" and great grandmothers "Executive Senior Research Associates"?

I think so!!!

I also think it makes Aunts "Associate Research Assistants".

Party Time...

2011-04-16T18:19:00.000-05:00

You might remember that earlier this week, Abby was invited to her first birthday party. You all know how excited I was for her to be included in the celebration...but I was still a bit nervous. Abby LOVES her friends...I really think she just goes to school to socialize...but Abby is a bit STUBBORN! I know...I know...not my Abby, right? While Abby does great at school...she is not a member of the good listeners honor roll. It's not that she doesn't know how to listen and follow directions...she just chooses to do it Abby's way. She has gotten a lot better, but if you happen to be a substitute teacher in her class on any given day...she's going to test the boundaries and see just how much she can get away with just by being cute. So you see my concern here. Would she behave?

When school dismissed for the day, the 8 little kindergartners who were attending Raley's 6th birthday party gathered by the office to await their chariot that was going to whisk them away to the Justin Bieber themed celebration. As the kids were waiting, another teacher approached the excited group of kindergartners and asked Abby, "Are you going to a Justin Bieber birthday party?" Abby looked at her as if she lost her mind and with her hand on her hips and a death look, Abby replied, "No, silly...I'm going to Raley's birthday party." Abby walked off shaking her head as if this teacher had no clue what was going on. See what you have to look forward to all you wonderful educators of Blue Springs Elementary!

Abby ended up having the time of her life...and she behaved like a perfect angel! Here are a few pictures of the party...

The chariot full of super excited kindergartners

They sang and danced the night away...

They played and played and played...

They ate cake and opened presents...

And they just enjoyed being friends...

Happy 6th Birthday Raley...thanks for letting us be a part of your special day!

Words really do hurt...

2011-04-15T15:12:00.000-05:00

The Myths and Facts about Down syndrome...

2011-04-14T17:19:00.000-05:00

MYTH: Down Syndrome is a rare disorder.

FACT: Down syndrome is not rare. About 1 in every 700 babies is born with Down syndrome and over 6000 babies are born with Down syndrome in the US each year. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 350,000 individuals with Down syndrome in the United States.

MYTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.

FACT: Over 80% of babies with Down syndrome are born to women under the age of 35, and the average age of a mother of an infant with Down syndrome is 28 years.

MYTH: Down syndrome is not treatable.

FACT: While there is no cure for Down syndrome, there are many treatments available for the problems associated with Down syndrome.

MYTH: People with Down syndrome have severe mental retardation.

FACT: Most people with Down syndrome have only mild to moderate mental retardation. Individuals with Down syndrome have IQ scores of 30 to 60, but much variation exists. More important than IQ scores is the fact that all individuals with Down syndrome are capable of learning.

MYTH: Children with Down syndrome must be placed in separate special education programs.

FACT: Most children with Down syndrome in the United States are “mainstreamed” into regular schools. They attend regular classes for some subjects and attend special classes for other subjects. Each school system is required to provide the best learning environment possible for all special needs children.

MYTH: People with Down Syndrome will live at home forever.

FACT: A large percentage of adults with Down syndrome live semi-independently in assisted living facilities and group homes. Adults with Down syndrome often hold jobs and have romantic relationships.

MYTH: People with Down syndrome are always happy.

FACT: People with Down syndrome experience a full range of emotions such as sadness, anger and happiness, just like everyone else.

MYTH: Individuals with Down syndrome die young.

FACT: The average life expectancy of an individual with Down syndrome is now between 50 and 60.

Don't forget us...

2011-04-13T19:34:00.000-05:00

Remember these cuties?

I know you are thinking...How could ANYONE forget these beautiful faces. Well friends...many have already forgotten these boys...because they still don't have families.

My heart breaks for these little guys, because soon their chances of ever finding a family...of ever finding hope...of ever having a "happily ever after" of their own...will be GONE.

What beautiful boys who need and DESERVE a family...they deserve to be called son, brother, grandson, cousin, nephew...they deserve to be hugged and kissed...they deserve to be tucked into a bed of their very own at night...they deserve to feel the grass beneath their feet and the sun on their little faces...they deserve to be loved...oh, how they deserve love.

All 3 boys have grants available for their adoption and now they all have their own personal blog to raise awareness of their need to be adopted quickly.

Sasha has a $2467.29 grant through Project Hopeful ...

he is also listed on Reece's Rainbow

Niko has a $2447.21 grant through Project Hopeful...

he is also listed on Reece's Rainbow

Easton has a $5879.00 grant through Reece's Rainbow

Please spread the word about these boys and share their blogs with everyone you know. With YOUR help...these boys may soon be called "son" very soon!

The Lighter Side of Special Education...

2011-04-12T15:28:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again...time for the dreaded IEP meetings. This time the Board of Education has invited me to not only one...but to four of these lovely meetings. Lucky for me, I really love all the IEP teams that my children have...so usually we have a good time. For those of you that aren't so fortunate...well, sometimes all you can do is laugh. Here is something to get you in the IEP mood!

The Lighter Side of Special Education: The IEP
By Aimee Gilman, Esq.

One of the things I find most amusing about being both a parent and an attorney for families is the IEP process. This process begins when your child is first evaluated as A CHILD WITH A DISABILITY.

The Invitation
Your school district, in an ongoing effort to remind you of the incredibly small role moms and dads play in this process, will start by sending you an "Invitation" to attend your child's IEP meeting. Of course, the parents are the only ones on the team who receive such an invitation, as though the district expects that you may politely decline and simply send a gift instead. Some more affluent districts will include a statement on the bottom such as "Sandwiches and tea will be served."

The IEP Meeting
When you appear for the meeting, you will again be reminded of the peripheral nature of your participation when you discover that the school has rented a small baseball stadium to accommodate all the members of your child's team. You are the only ones who are not in the employ of the district.

Moreover, all district personnel are seated on full size chairs while you are left to sit on the little plastic children's chairs made by Fisher Price.

The members of the TEAM will fix their collective glare on you because you had the gall to have this child at all, and look how many people are inconvenienced.

The IEP
The first order of business is to READ THE IEP. This is a necessary feature of every IEP meeting because school districts are of the firm belief that no parent of a disabled child has ever learned how to read.

This activity serves the added purposes of assuring that parents don't have a chance to speak, and of consuming the full 45 minutes allotted for the meeting. You will then be asked to reschedule at a time that is designed to be as inconvenient for you as possible, such as next year on Christmas.

The Beliefs & Assumptions
I found that one of the main areas of difference between parents and school personnel involves the level of the child's programming.

Parents usually believe their children are capable of reaching greater heights than the district has programmed for in the child's IEP. Whenever this happens, the district will discreetly remind these parents that the CHILD HAS A DISABILITY. These reminders are usually accomplished by having the special education director make this statement at regular 30-second intervals, or by simply using a megaphone.

Districts feel these methods are unfortunate but necessary because if they do not constantly remind parents that the CHILD HAS A DISABILITY, parents will forget.

The school psychologist will tell you that she "knows how painful this is," at which point you will have no alternative but to smack her. No one will care, however, because it is obvious that she has forgotten to take her meds.

Once parents are successfully assured that they are the intellectual equivalents of plants, the other TEAM members will then happily agree upon all goals, objectives, services, and placement and the meeting will conclude.

The Vision Statement
The Department of Education recently designed an especially torturous device for IEPs called the Vision Statement. This Statement purports to allow the parents an opportunity to say where they see their child in the future.

The Vision Statement is completely nonbinding on the District and serves no purpose other than to create an emotional outburst from parents who have no desire to speculate about their child's future in front of this unfriendly crowd, or anywhere else for that matter.

I always advise my clients to tell the district they envision their child attending Harvard Medical School-starting tomorrow. This usually sets an appropriate tone for the remainder for the meeting, and may help to avoid some of the pitfalls discussed above.

She is accepted...

2011-04-11T17:30:00.001-05:00

When Abby was born, it was one of the most fearful days of my life...not for me, but for Abby. I was so afraid of the way the world would treat her and how others would react because she was "different" then they were. I have to tell ya...today, was a great day. Today, I received a Facebook message from a lady named Traci. Traci told me that her daughter, Raley, is in Abby's class at school and she was planning her birthday party. She told me that she was planning on picking some of the kindergartners up from school on Friday for a party and that she asked Raley who she wanted to come to the event. My heart overflowed and my eyes filled with tears when I read the words that Traci wrote next..."Abby was the first person on Raley's list".

Friends...can you even begin to imagine the joy in this mama's heart. No...I don't think you can. I the midst of the celebratory tears...I realized something that Abby was trying to show me all along. You see, all I ever wanted for Abby was to be socially accepted and for her peers to love her just the way God created her. Today, Abby showed me that she can make her way...that I just need to let go and let Abby be who God created her to be and she will be just fine. Traci went on to say, "If you could just walk down the hall of that school like I have done several times, you will see how much those kids love her. She has made many friends on her own and just by being her self". This just proves that FRIENDS DON'T COUNT CHROMOSOMES!!!!!

Praying for Kate...

2011-04-10T15:19:00.001-05:00

Over the past year...I have become all too familiar with something I never wanted to be a part of...never wanted any of my children to be a part of...never wanted ANY child to be a part of, but CANCER doesn't ask you what you what. Cancer just shows it's ugly face and attacks whoever it wants to...even our precious, sweet children. Cancer sucks!

This adorable little girl is Kate...she is 7 years-old and for the past 2 years she has been fighting this nasty disease. Kate has a very malignant, aggressive brain tumor called supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor or sPNET. Kate's particular kind of brain tumor is rare. Long term prognosis and outcomes weren't encouraging, so Kate has been receiving treatments as part of a study. This little girl has been through multiple brain surgeries, many many rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplants...and then when the cancer came back...she did it all over again. Little girls like Kate should be going to school, playing with friends, riding their bikes...not fighting this nasty beast. Please pray for Kate and her family. Kate starts proton beam radiation and her mom asks that we all pray. Pray for Kate's vision...because one tumor lies close to her optic nerve. Also, please pray that Kate be protected from the very real possibility of a stroke. The location of her tumors increases Kate's risk of having a stroke. You can follow Kate's journey and check out how she's doing here. Thank you for keeping this family in your prayers. I know how helpless a mama feels when there is nothing you can do to help your child. I'm praying for the day when no child ever has to battle childhood cancer.

Happy 2nd Birthday Michael...

2011-04-09T15:18:00.001-05:00

Teddy bears and seas of blue

Smiling in honor of you

An infant, not long ago

Now two candles are aglow

You are growing up so fast

How quickly another year has passed

You are so special, sweet, and wise

A present before our very eyes

Another year we have watched you shine

An angel I will always call mine

Sent from Heaven, just for me

Filled with hope and dignity

A blessing now an always

You brighten all my days

Precious child I love you so

More than anyone could know

Baby's breath and sun filled skies

Ladybugs and lullabies

Starry nights and bright moonbeams

Tender hearts and lasting dreams

Each, a gift within your view

During this time just made for you

May only good things come your way...

On this, your very special birthday!

Happy Birthday my sweet little boy...I love you!

Help us adopt...

2011-04-08T17:36:00.000-05:00

Help Us Adopt is accepting applications for homestudy ready families in the process of adopting. Helpusadopt.org is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) financial assistance grant program providing qualified couples and individuals with grants of up to $15,000 towards their domestic, international, foster, or special needs adoption expenses. What a blessing for the families they help. You can check them out here and apply through their website.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Things that make you go HMMMM...

2011-04-07T18:22:00.000-05:00

New studies in the United Kingdom say that teenagers should be tested to see if they are genetic carriers of Down syndrome. The report states that all teenagers should undergo testing before they start having sex or settle down with a partner to determine if they are carriers of "incurable inherited conditions". The article also states that this specific test could be helpful to young couples wanting to have a child. If both parents test positive...their child has a 1 in 4 chance of having a genetic disorder. Once the parents have all the information, they can then decide if they want to use alternate child bearing methods...like donated sperm, or IVF where they can "disregard any diseased embryos" (yep...it really said that). You can read the full article here.

This is so sad to me...even the views in my own country leave me scratching my head. I wish just for a day that every person who believes children with special needs are a burden on society could look through my eyes and see what I see...the beauty, the love, the innocents. God doesn't create crap...He doesn't make mistakes. There will be a day when we can finally all join hands and live a life of love and compassion...a day when we look past our neighbors disability and finally see the ability...a day when we aren't judged by our genetic make-up and finally realize we are fearfully and wonderfully made...Oh what a joyous day that will be!

Our tests say we are PERFECT...

...just the way God created us!

God lives under the bed...

2011-04-06T13:27:00.000-05:00

GOD LIVES UNDER THE BED

I envy Kevin. My brother, Kevin, thinks God lives under his bed. At least that's what I heard him say one night.

He was praying out loud in his dark bedroom, and I stopped to listen, 'Are you there, God?' he said. 'Where are you? Oh, I see. Under the bed...'

I giggled softly and tiptoed off to my own room. Kevin's unique perspectives are often a source of amusement. But that night something else lingered long after the humor. I realized for the first time the very different world Kevin lives in.

He was born 30 years ago, mentally disabled as a result of difficulties during labor. Apart from his size (he's 6-foot-2), there are few ways in which he is an adult.

He reasons and communicates with the capabilities of a 7-year-old, and he always will. He will probably always believe that God lives under his bed, that Santa Claus is the one who fills the space under our tree every Christmas and that airplanes stay up in the sky because angels carry them.

I remember wondering if Kevin realizes he is different. Is he ever dissatisfied with his monotonous life?

Up before dawn each day, off to work at a workshop for the disabled, home to walk our cocker spaniel, return to eat his favorite macaroni-and-cheese for dinner, and later to bed.

The only variation in the entire scheme is laundry, when he hovers excitedly over the washing machine like a mother with her newborn child.

He does not seem dissatisfied.

He lopes out to the bus every morning at 7:05, eager for a day of simple work.

He wrings his hands excitedly while the water boils on the stove before dinner, and he stays up late twice a week to gather our dirty laundry for his next day's laundry chores.

And Saturdays - oh, the bliss of Saturdays! That's the day my Dad takes Kevin to the airport to have a soft drink, watch the planes land, and speculate loudly on the destination of each passenger inside. 'That one's goin' to Chi-car-go! ' Kevin shouts as he claps his hands.

His anticipation is so great he can hardly sleep on Friday nights.

And so goes his world of daily rituals and weekend field trips.

He doesn't know what it means to be discontent.

His life is simple.

He will never know the entanglements of wealth of power, and he does not care what brand of clothing he wears or what kind of food he eats. His needs have always been met, and he never worries that one day they may not be.

His hands are diligent. Kevin is never so happy as when he is working. When he unloads the dishwasher or vacuums the carpet, his heart is completely in it.

He does not shrink from a job when it is begun, and he does not leave a job until it is finished. But when his tasks are done, Kevin knows how to relax.

He is not obsessed with his work or the work of others. His heart is pure.

He still believes everyone tells the truth, promises must be kept, and when you are wrong, you apologize instead of argue.

Free from pride and unconcerned with appearances, Kevin is not afraid to cry when he is hurt, angry or sorry. He is always transparent, always sincere. And he trusts God.

Not confined by intellectual reasoning, when he comes to Chris t, he comes as a child. Kevin seems to know God - to really be friends with Him in a way that is difficult for an 'educated' person to grasp. God seems like his closest companion.

In my moments of doubt and frustrations with my Christianity, I envy the security Kevin has in his simple faith.

It is then that I am most willing to admit that he has some divine knowledge that rises above my mortal questions.

It is then I realize that perhaps he is not the one with the handicap. I am. My obligations, my fear, my pride, my circumstances - they all become disabilities when I do not trust them to God's care.

Who knows if Kevin comprehends things I can never learn? After all, he has spent his whole life in that kind of innocence, praying after dark and soaking up the goodness and love of God.

And one day, when the mysteries of heaven are opened, and we are all amazed at how close God really is to our hearts, I'll realize that God heard the simple prayers of a boy who believed that God lived under his bed.

Kevin won't be surprised at all!

Beatitudes for people with special needs...

2011-04-05T15:28:00.000-05:00

Blessed are you that never bids us "hurry up"

and more blessed are you that do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us, for often we need time rather than help.

Blessed are you who take time to listen to defective speech, for you help us to know that if we persevere, we can be understood.

Blessed are you who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers, for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation.

Blessed are you who stand beside us as we enter new ventures, for our failures will be outweighed by times we surprise ourselves and you.

Blessed are you who ask for our help,for our greatest need is to be needed.

Blessed are you when by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not our peculiar muscles, nor our wounded nervous system, but is the God-given self that no infirmity can confine.

Blessed are those who realize that I am human and don't expect me to be saintly just because I am disabled.

Blessed are those who pick things up without being asked.

Blessed are those who understand that sometimes I am weak and not just lazy.

Blessed are those who forget my disability of the body and see the shape of my soul.

Blessed are those who see me as a whole person, unique and complete, and not as a "half" and one of God's mistakes.

Blessed are those who love me just as I am without wondering what I might have been like.

Blessed are my friends on whom I depend, for they are the substance and joy of my life!!!!

Difference is an Artist's Game...

2011-04-04T16:32:00.000-05:00

A beautiful video created by Clara Sigmon, a 13 year-old. She created this to educate the world about her brother David who has Down syndrome. It is beautifully written...so powerful!

Before I was a mom...

2011-04-03T18:22:00.000-05:00

Before I was a Mom I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.

I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom - I had never been puked on.

Pooped on.

Chewed on.

Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.

I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.

Or give shots.

I never looked into teary eyes and cried.

I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put them down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.

I never knew that I could love someone so much.

I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom - I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.

I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.

I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.

I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom - I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.

I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,
the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much before I was a Mom.

Help save a starfish...

2011-04-02T20:00:00.001-05:00

I have met some of the greatest people through the blessing of adoption. It is so amazing to me how these new friends...people I would have NEVER met otherwise...are all tied to together by one very awesome adventure...Adoption.

This little girl's mama-to-be is no different. Meet Olga...she lives in another far away land and needs to come home quickly. Isn't she precious! My friend Jenn and her family are working like crazy to get Olga home. Olga is in a region of her country that is VERY expensive...their agency fees are OUTRAGEOUS! Looking at the financial mountain that Jenn is climbing makes me want to help. Seriously, what kind of person would just let their friend make that climb alone...nope, not gonna happen!

Please visit Jenn's blog...she has so many really neat fundraisers going on. Also...for those of you that have emailed me asking how you can get a pair of fabulous flip flops, here is your chance. Anyone who donates $25 to Olga's grant...I will make you a special pair of flops. Scoot on over and visit my friend Jenn.

Grace...

2011-04-01T16:16:00.000-05:00

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New England
town. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty,
bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit.

Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to
speak....

"I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward
me swinging this bird cage. On the bottom of the cage were three little
wild birds, shivering with cold and fright.

I stopped the lad and asked, "What do you have there, son?"

"Just some old birds," came the reply.

"What are you going to do with them?" I asked.

"Take 'em home and have fun with 'em," he answered. "I'm gonna tease 'em
and pull out their feathers to make 'em fight. I'm gonna have a real good
time.."

"But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do
then?"

"Oh, I got some cats," said the little boy. "They like birds. I'll take
'em to them."

The pastor was silent for a moment. "How much do you want for those birds,
son?"

"Huh?? !!! Why, you don't want them birds, mister. They're just plain old
field birds. They don't sing. They ain't even pretty!"

"How much?" the pastor asked again.

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, "$10?"

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed
it in the boy's hand. In a flash, the boy was gone. The pastor picked up
the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a
tree and a grassy spot. Setting the cage down, he opened the
Door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them
free. Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the
pastor began to tell this story:

One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come
from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. "Yes, sir, I
just caught a world full of people down there Set me a trap, used bait I
knew they couldn't resist. Got 'em all!"

"What are you going to do with them?" Jesus asked.

Satan replied, "Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to
marry and divorce each
Other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse.
I'm gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I'm
really gonna have fun!"

"And what will you do when you are done with them?" Jesus asked.

"Oh, I'll kill 'em," Satan glared proudly.

"How much do you want for them?" Jesus asked.

"Oh, you don't want those people. They ain't no good. Why, you'll take
them and they'll just hate you. They'll spit on you, curse you and kill
you. You don't want those people!!"

"How much? He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, "All your blood, tears and your life."

Jesus said, "DONE!" Then He paid the price.

The pastor picked up the cage and walked from the pulpit.

The Blessings of a Big Family...

2011-03-31T19:48:00.000-05:00

The Blessings of a Big Family

The blessings of a big family

are only seen by a few

A few of the chosen ones

that God has given this blessing to

The blessings are so numerous
it's hard to even start
to number or to name them but
they all hold a place in the heart

The heart of every person in a
big family is unique
it's uniqueness makes us special
and should not be critiqued

The memories that are made
are more precious than gold
from babies to weddings
from young and to old

From grandparents to grandchildren
and everyone in between
the many special relationships that are built
and could have never been foreseen

Thank you God for my big family

I will always treasure
Through the good times and bad
the memories could not be measured

Thank you God

for good times, celebrations, even tears

I pray that these blessings

last many, many more years.

To have a big family

takes a lot of work and play

A big family is a blessing

that I thank God for everyday!

Saving Sveta Benefit Dinner...

2011-03-30T13:11:00.000-05:00

Everybody loves Patricia...

2011-03-29T16:10:00.000-05:00

Patricia Heaton...known best for her role as Deborah in Everybody Loves Raymond...is challenging all you folks who love and advocate for the least of these. Patricia...who is currently starring in the sitcom The Middle...will donate $1 for every person who follows Reese's Rainbow on Twitter...up to $10,000. How cool is that? Patricia found out about Reece's Rainbow through Twitter and has since been inspired to get involved. So you see..."I'm totally broke" is no longer an excuse not to get involved. This is Patricia's hard earned money we are spending...all you have to do is follow Reece's Rainbow on Twitter and she will donate $1. Folks, it can't get any easier then that. Do you think Patricia would be interested in adopting Sasha, Niko, and Easton? It doesn't hurt to ask...right?

Special little blessings...

2011-03-28T13:54:00.000-05:00

This video was made by a girl named Amanda...who is just 15 years-old. Her parents are in the process of adopting a child with Down syndrome. I think it is so amazing to see how the Lord uses His people to raise awareness...no matter their age. Amanda your video is beautiful. Look closely...you just might recognize a few kids from my favorite baby house!

And the Winners Are...

2011-03-26T18:32:00.000-05:00

First...I must thank ALL you wonderful friends who donated prizes, spread the word, and gave to Sasha, Niko, and Easton's grant fund.

Because of YOUR generosity...these little guys have a chance! Thank You!

Before I reveal the winners of these awesome prizes...

...I must share with you how the Lord has provided for these boys.

Total raised for Sasha...$2,562.66

Total raised for Niko...$2,542.66

Total raised for Easton...$2,491.66

Total raised...$7,596.98 YEAH!!!

Now...back to the main event

Up first...the iPad

And the winner is....

Next...the proud owner of an iPod is...

And the winner of the Wii is...

Finally...the lucky person who is going to be doing

some major shopping is...

If you are the proud new owner of one of these awesome prizes...please contact me at:

enskat1405@hotmail.com and I will get your prize to you!

Thanks again for all your help...see you tomorrow when the Enskat blogging challenge resumes!

The final hours...

2011-03-25T19:21:00.000-05:00

We are in the final hours...the fundraiser for Sasha, Niko, and Easton will end at midnight. Please continue to pray for these boys...they still are without committed families. My heart breaks for these little guys. As the days pass...the chances of them being united with families become slimmer. It's not about raising money...really, it's not...it's about raising awareness for these boys. I KNOW the Lord will provide a family for each one of these boys...but it's all in HIS time!

If you would like to donate and be entered into the drawing...please click the NEW chip-in...because the old one ended already.

Blessing the Beamish Family...

2011-03-24T19:28:00.000-05:00

ONE year ago...our dossier was on it's way to another land. It made it's journey across the ocean and arrived safely into the hands of our facilitation team. It was a bitter-sweet moment for us...we would soon get to meet these cuties...

...but we still had some major funding issues. By major, I mean we were so close to traveling and we were still way short on what we still needed to free our babies. It is a very uneasy situation to be in. We made it through the homestudy...tackled the mountain of paperwork...waited patiently (NOT) to get our immigration approval...drove all over the state getting documents notarized...and finally, it was time. It was our time. It was like we were finally getting to dive into the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. The time came and we left...STILL NOT FULLY FUNDED. Talk about a leap of faith. Looking back that was so NOT me. I would have never got on that plane knowing we didn't have enough money for our adoption. To be honest...we were $4000 short...that's it. BUT $4000 was the "price" of one of our kids, because $4000 was the cost to adopt an additional child from the same orphanage. So it may seem like so little...but it was still so much...it was the life of a child. To make a long story short...God provided, because just hours before our SDA appointment, we received a phone call that someone donated the entire remainder of what we needed to fully fund our adoption. Talk about a miracle! Our story is just proof that it's on God's time and on His dime! He will provide.

God also gave me something else...A BIG MOUTH to spread the word and now my friend Sara needs a miracle of her own. Sara and Mike Beamish are adopting this beautiful little girl, Kameron. They are leaving on Sunday...THIS SUNDAY and are still in need of funds to complete the adoption of her daughter. Please visit Sara's blog and consider helping her bring her little girl home. Please spread the word and help bless the Beamish family!

2011-03-23T09:40:00.000-05:00

Just a few days left...

...to be entered into the giveaway and save
these boys!

They all have grants OVER $2000...someone please rescue them!
Wouldn't they make great brothers?...just sayin :)

Why do we love children?...

2011-03-19T16:20:00.004-05:00

My friend Rita (who I love, love, LOVE) sent this to me and I HAD to share it. If you are like me...you can totally relate to this, because MANY OF THESE THINGS HAVE HAPPENED TO YOU!

Why do we love children?
1) NUDITY
I was driving with my three young children one warm summer evening when a woman in the convertible ahead of us stood up and waved. She was stark naked! As I was reeling from the shock, I heard my 5-year-old shout from the back seat, 'Mom, that lady isn't wearing a seat belt!'

2) OPINIONS
On the first day of school, a first-grader handed his teacher a note from his mother The note read, 'The opinions expressed by this child are not necessarily those of his parents ..'

3) KETCHUP
A woman was trying hard to get the ketchup out of the jar. During her struggle the phone rang so she asked her 4-year-old daughter to answer the phone.. 'Mommy can't come to the phone to talk to you right now. She's hitting the bottle.'

4) MORE NUDITY

A little boy got lost at the YMCA and found himself in the women's locker room. When he was spotted, the room burst into shrieks, with ladies grabbing towels and running for cover. The little boy watched in amazement and then asked, 'What's the matter, haven't you ever seen a little boy before?'

5) POLICE # 1
While taking a routine vandalism report at an elementary school, I was interrupted by a little girl about 6 years old. Looking up and down at my uniform, she asked, 'Are you a cop? Yes,' I answered and continued writing the report My mother said if I ever needed help I should ask the police. Is that right?' 'Yes, that's right,' I told her. 'Well, then,' she said as she extended her foot toward me, 'would you please tie my shoe?'

6) POLICE # 2
It was the end of the day when I parked my police van in front of the station. As I gathered my equipment, my K-9 partner, Jake, was barking, and I saw a little boy staring in at me. 'Is that a dog you got back there?' he asked. 'It sure is,' I replied. Puzzled, the boy looked at me and then towards the back of the van.
Finally he said, 'What'd he do?'

7) ELDERLY
While working for an organization that delivers lunches to elderly shut-ins, I used to take my 4-year-old daughter on my afternoon rounds. She was unfailingly intrigued by the various appliances of old age, particularly the canes, walkers and wheelchairs. One day I found her staring at a pair of false teeth soaking in a glass. As I braced myself for the inevitable barrage of questions, she merely turned and whispered, 'The tooth fairy will never believe this!'

8) DRESS-UP
A little girl was watching her parents dress for a party. When she saw her dad donning his tuxedo, she warned, 'Daddy, you shouldn't wear that suit.' 'And why not, darling?'
'You know that it always gives you a headache the next morning.'

9) DEATH
While walking along the sidewalk in front of his church, our minister heard the intoning of a prayer that nearly made his collar wilt. Apparently, his 5-year-old son and his playmates had found a dead robin. Feeling that proper burial should be performed, they had secured a small box and cotton batting, then dug a hole and made ready for the disposal of the deceased.
The minister's son was chosen to say the appropriate prayers and with sonorous dignity intoned his version of what he thought his father always said: 'Glory be unto the Faaather, and unto the Sonnn, and into the hole he goooes.' (I want this line used at my funeral!)

10) SCHOOL
A little girl had just finished her first week of school. 'I'm just wasting my time,' she said to her mother. 'I can't read, I can't write, and they won't let me talk!'

11) BIBLE
A little boy opened the big family Bible. He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages. Suddenly, something fell out of the Bible He picked up the object and looked at it. What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages.
'Mama, look what I found,' the boy called out.
'What have you got there, dear?'
With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered, 'I think it's Adam's underwear!'

My new do...

2011-03-16T10:29:00.004-05:00

O ye of little faith...did you really think I would not go through with my end of the deal? Renee raised $500 for sweet Paisley...so I am rockin' a new do...It's five shades of PINK fabulous. My new hair color has sparked much attention...not sure that it's the good kind, but once everyone hears the story behind the hair they no longer think I'm the crazy rebel lady going through a mid-life crisis. Sigh...the things I do for my friends!

I'm going FLIPPIN' crazy...

2011-03-14T09:58:00.008-05:00

It's been WEEKS...and still...there are NO families for any of these boys. This truly breaks my heart. I knew it would be hard, because the odds are not in their favor...they are boys, they are older children, and they are disabled. But I serve a God that is bigger than ANY of this and I know He will provide for the least of these. I have no doubt in my mind that if each of these kiddos had a rather large grant, someone out there would be willing to bring them home. With that said, I have decided to "up the ante" and throw in a little something extra...

But...before I reveal the extra incentive to donating, I must also re-introduce you to another little special beauty that rocks that extra chromosome...this is Paisley.

Her mom-to-be, Renee, is in desperate need for some last minute fundraising to bring this sweet chub home. Renee is one of my dearest friends...so I am happy to help the Crazy Cajun with her cause. Yes...I know that I have already done so much for my her...I mean seriously, I have volunteered to color my hair pink if she raised $500...which she did. So today, is officially my last day with semi normal hair. The things I do for "friends" and you know what...she has not even offered to send me any of her home baked goodies. Really Renee...I see how you are. Being the good friend that I am, I still want to help her.

So now to the little extra you will get...

When Abby was born, my mother-in-law and I started on a little creative adventure. We were searching for a way to provide books and other educational material for parent's of babies with Down syndrome who were born at out local hospital. It was very frustrating when Abby was born and I had no knowledge about Down syndrome and the hospital had no information to give me. So thanks to the funds we raised through our little project...no parent ever has to be in the same situation that I was in. So what did we do? We started making fancy flip flops and called our little mission "Flip for Downs"...here are a few pictures of my little fashion divas rockin those flip flops...

How does this involve you?...Well, we are going to flip for a cause now. My mother-in-law and I are going to create a pair of these fabulous flops for 20 of you generous people. Here is how it works...

The first 10 people to donate $25 or more to any of the 3 boy's grant funds will be entered into the drawing to win those awesome prizes (the iPad, iPod, Wii, or $300 Gift card) PLUS I will send you a pair of flip flops.

Let's not forget Paisley...the first 10 people to donate $25 to Paisley's grant fund will be entered into the drawing to win one of Renee's fabulous pieces of jewelry Plus I will also send you a pair of flip flops.

So see...no matter what, you win. I will create a pair of fabulous flops just for you...YOU pick the size and YOU pick the colors...it's that easy!

I can make them in pretty much ANY color combination you want...school colors, favorite team colors, colors to match your outfit, you eyes...whatever!

Go visit the boy's blog or Paisley's blog and donate. Leave me a comment and tell me what size and colors you would like. Please include your email address...don't worry, I won't publish your email address for the world to see!

Help Sash, Niko, and Easton come home...

2011-03-09T09:19:00.003-06:00

Don't forget...the fundraiser for Sasha, Nika, and Easton is still going on. To my knowledge...there has not been a soul inquire about them yet. They a family rescue them and the only way that will happen is a full grant fund. Please consider helping these little guys find their way home. If everyone who visits their advocacy blog gives just $10...I can guarantee they will be home by Christmas. What an amazing gift for these boys.

Happy 6th Birthday Abby...

2011-03-08T10:34:00.004-06:00

I am having a really hard time believing that you are already 6. It seems like just yesterday that you came into our world...and changed it forever. I remember when we were told that you had Down syndrome...oh how mommy cried, but not for me...but for you. I was so afraid of how the world would treat you...how you would be labeled...how you would be excluded...how you would be hurt. Oh, how I was wrong...you have held your own and taught so much to so many. You have taught all you meet how to look beyond the "disability" and see you. You have taught us what it's like to truly be loved unconditionally...and how to persevere when life says "no". You have taught us to be a voice for those without one and to stand up for the ones who can't defend themselves. Thank you for showing us the great pleasures of the little things and for opening our eyes to the beauty of an extra chromosome. We are so proud of our little sunshine...Shine on Abby...shine on!

March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month...

2011-03-07T12:24:00.007-06:00

Cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and to maintain balance and posture. It is due to a nonprogressive brain abnormality, which means that it does not get worse over time, though the exact symptoms can change over a person's lifetime.

People with cerebral palsy have damage to the part of the brain that controls muscle tone. Muscle tone is the amount of resistance to movement in a muscle. It is what lets you keep your body in a certain posture or position.

For example, it lets you sit up straight and keep your head up. Changes in muscle tone let you move. For example, to bring your hand to your face, the tone in your biceps muscle at the front of your arm must increase while the tone in the triceps muscle at the back of your arm must decrease. The tone in different muscle groups must be balanced for you to move smoothly.

There are four main types of cerebral palsy - spastic, athetoid, ataxic, and mixed.

Spastic: People with spastic cerebral palsy have increased muscle tone. Their muscles are stiff. Their movements can be awkward. Seventy to eighty percent of people with cerebral palsy have spasticity. Spastic cerebral palsy is usually described further by what parts of the body are affected. In spastic diplegia, the main effect is found in both legs. In spastic hemiplegia, one side of the person's body is affected. Spastic quadriplegia affects a person's whole body (face, trunk, legs, and arms).

Athetoid or dyskinetic: People with athetoid cerebral palsy have slow, writhing movements that they cannot control. The movements usually affect a person's hands, arms, feet, and legs. Sometimes the face and tongue are affected and the person has a hard time talking. Muscle tone can change from day to day and can vary even during a single day. Ten to twenty percent of people with cerebral palsy have the athetoid form of the condition.

Ataxic: People with ataxic cerebral palsy have problems with balance and depth perception. They might be unsteady when they walk. They might have a hard time with quick movements or movements that need a lot of control, like writing. They might have a hard time controlling their hands or arms when they reach for something. People with ataxic cerebral palsy can have increased or decreased muscle tone. Five to ten percent of people with cerebral palsy have ataxia.

Mixed: Some people have more than one type of cerebral palsy. The most common pattern is spasticity plus athetoid movements.

The symptoms of cerebral palsy vary from person to person. Symptoms can also change over time. A person with severe cerebral palsy might not be able to walk and might need lifelong care. A person with mild cerebral palsy, on the other hand, might walk a little awkwardly, but might not need any special help.

*From the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention

In honor of Cerebral Palsy Awareness please visit Easton's fundraising and advocacy blog and help him find a family. Easton has Cerebral Palsy and needs to come home quickly.
If you would like more information on parenting a child with Cerebral Palsy, I would be happy to put you in touch with some really awesome adoptive moms who would be happy to share their experiences with you.

The Forgotten Souls of Babyhouse 19 GIVEAWAY...

2011-03-04T06:08:00.007-06:00

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Over the past year, I have seen many of the precious children from baby house 19 come home and are now in the arms of their forever families. Many of these children I have met while on my own journey…and the before and after images in my mind are amazing. I have looked into the eyes of these children while they were still in the confinement of the orphanage walls. Their eyes told a story…a story of abandonment, neglect, and hopelessness. Now, looking at the pictures of those same children…their eyes tell a whole new story…the story of love, hope, and a future. It has truly been a joy and a blessing to watch these children blossom because of the love of a family.

As I sit here the faces of many other children who were not so fortunate consume my thoughts. These are the ones left behind…the ones that have little chance of ever being united with a family…these are the forgotten souls of baby house 19.
There are three forgotten ones that weigh heavy on my heart…Sasha, Niko, and Easton.

Although these boys do not share the same blood…they still share so much…they share the same story. All three of these boys were abandoned at birth and took their place behind the doors of baby house 19. They were all perfectly made creations of God, but they all share another characteristic that deems them unacceptable in their society…they are all disabled. As many of you know, children with disabilities in Eastern Europe have little hope for a future.

The life of an orphan is not easy…most of these children never see beyond the orphanage gates.

There is little food, lack of attention, and no interaction with the outside world. Most orphanages are overcrowded and understaffed, because they lack the necessary funds to properly care for the children.

Many children are left in the confines of their crib and have learned that their cries for attention do no good.

As a response to neglect, many children turn to rocking as a form of self soothing. It is no life for any child…but it’s a better life then what awaits them on their 5th birthday. The walls of baby house 19 are no longer their refuge…no longer their shelter…no longer their protection…because when a child turns 5, they leave the baby house and are sent to an institution.

I can’t even begin to imagine what these three forgotten souls were thinking on that day…the day when life as they knew it changed forever and they were taken away from the only home they had ever known and transferred to a new place. Oh my, how my heart aches for those forgotten souls. At one point, there were actually families that committed to adopt them. Families that thought about them, loved them, and were making the mad dash to rescue them. But recently, both families were unable to finish the adoptions…so once again these boys are forgotten.

Time is running out for them and they need a family fast…so I have joined forces with some very generous people to raise money and awareness for the forgotten ones.

Up for grabs…

Apple iPad MB292LL/A Tablet

The best way to experience the web, email, photos, and video. Hands down....
• Multi-Touch screen and advanced capabilities of iPad
• A vivid LED-backlit IPS display makes viewing photos
• The 9.7-inch high-resolution screen makes iPad perfect for multimedia
• Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n) Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology
• Millions of songs, thousands of movies and TV shows
• With its large display and onscreen keyboard, iPad makes it easy to jot down quick notes and keep important information on hand

Apple iPod Touch

• 8 GB capacity for about 2,000 songs, 10,000 photos, or 10 hours of video
• Up to 40 hours of audio playback or 7 hours of video playback on a single charge
• 3.5-inch (diagonal) widescreen Multi-Touch display with 960-by-640-pixel resolution (326 pixels per inch)
• Support for AAC, Protected AAC (iTunes Store) and other audio formats; H.264, MPEG-4, and Motion JPEG video codecs in M4V, MP4, MOV, and AVI formats

Nintendo Wii

Nintendo's Wii™ console brings a revolution of motion
controlled gaming to people of all ages and families everywhere.
Discover exciting titles like Wii Sports™, Wii Fit™ Plus, and New Super Mario Bros.™ Wii—available only for Wii. Enjoy new entries in legendary franchises like Mario™, The Legend of Zelda™, Metroid™, and more. Connect* online to download new and classic games, stream TV episodes and movies via Netflix, or surf the Internet from your living room. Get off the couch and experience a great value in video games

$300 Target Gift Card

Here is how you can win one of these great items:
1) Donate to Sasha’s grant fund through Project hopeful
2) Donate to Niko’s grant fund through Project hopeful
3) Donate to Easton’s grant fund through Reece’s Rainbow

$10 donation= 1 entry
$25 donation= 3 entries
$50 donation= 8 entries
$100 donation= 20 entries
$150 donation= 35 entries
$200 donation= 55 entries
$250 donation= 80 entries
$300 donation= 110 entries

All donations are TAX DEDUCTIBLE and I have placed the donate buttons to the right of this post to make it easy for you to donate.

*Note: Individual grant funds have been set up for Sasha and Niko through Project
Hopeful because they are too old to have individual grant fund
through Reece’s Rainbow.

4) Donate and spread the word and you will be entered just for raising awareness. You can post on your blog, facebook, or any other media outlet. You can enter everyday just by reposting this giveaway daily.

Names of those who donate will automatically be sent through the chip-in, but if you are one of the awesome people spreading the word…please leave a comment where you posted so you can be added to the giveaway.

Giveaway will run March 4th through March 25th

The ultimate goal for this giveaway is to raise awareness for these boys. International adoption is NOT cheap and there are many families that would love to adopt…there is just one thing standing in their way…$20,000! Please help spread the word and raise the money needed to help a family save the forgotten souls.

If you are interested in finding out more about Sasha, Niko, and Easton…please visit their advocacy blog ...you can also visit Reece's Rainbow and Project Hopeful to find out more about International adoption.

A way to help sweet Angelina...

2011-03-03T17:17:00.003-06:00

One of my bloggy friends is searching for a home for this dumpling and trying to raise money to ease the financial burden of sweet Angelina's adoption expenses. My friend, Nina, knows this cutie's family is out there somewhere. Nina is in the process of adopting Angelina's best friend, Elizabeth. Like any totally awesome mom...she can't stand the thought of leaving Angelina behind so she is on a mission to save Angelina. Nina is hosting a fundraiser where she is giving one lucky participant an iPad...so visit Angelina's advocacy blog and help my friend Nina find a home for sweet Angelina.

Happy Birthday Dr Seuss...

2011-03-02T18:31:00.007-06:00

Today, we pay tribute to Dr Seuss' 107th birthday. Here in the Enskat house we celebrate by reading our favorite books from the great Dr. Seuss...but there is a designer who has taken her love for the children's books to a whole new level. A designer named Kayla from HGTV's Design Happens actually uses the humorous children's books as inspiration when creating her masterpieces. Check it out...

Definately unique, I guess we all have to get our inspiration from somewhere...

Rescue the Perishing...

2011-03-01T15:35:00.000-06:00

Goodbye February...

2011-02-28T16:47:00.003-06:00

I have successfully made it 2 entire months...just 10 more months to go! So since today is the last day of February...it's my bloggy cheat day. BUT please make sure you come back in March for a really HUGE fundraiser that I KNOW you want to be a part of. I leave you with some Nina cuteness...and look, the boogers are getting SO much better...thank you Steph! See you in March!

Actions really do speak louder than words...

2011-02-27T17:58:00.003-06:00

The light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection.

The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration, as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up.

He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in a holding cell.

After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects.

He said, "I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' license plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, so naturally....I assumed you had stolen the car."

Hannah and her new suitor...

2011-02-26T19:53:00.007-06:00

Hannah HATES being the feature presentation on the Enskat blog. Why?...because it EMBARRASSES her that many of her friend's parental units read about HER life. Seriously, Hannah...your 8 get over it. Wait until your a teenager and I air all your dirty laundry here (BIG smile from mama). So, I have respected the wishes of the drama queen and been hush hush when it comes to Hannah...but after what I witnessed today, I can't keep my mouth shut any longer.

Noah and I took Hannah and her cousin, Lily, to a birthday party for one of the little cuties in her class. Hannah attends a rather small school. Most of these kiddos have been in the same class since Pre-K and have all successfully arrived in the 2nd grade together. There are only 11 students in 2nd grade at her school and 8 of them are BOYS...who are ALL completely fascinated with Hannah, because to them...she is just one of the boys. She loves to do all those things that little boys are notorious for doing...she is the ultimate tomboy.

Little do they know...THEY ARE BEING PLAYED! Hannah is sneaking in for the kill and staking her out a honey. And man is she GOOD! The little guys that she has known for years understand all of her overly dramatic tendencies and they are well aware of the fact that Hannah changes male suitors like she changes her mind...ALL THE TIME. BUT there are always the newbies to the circle of 2nd graders...and they have SO much to learn about Hannah and her DIVA charm.

Here is Hannah, Eli, Nick, and Hannah's best buddy Jo Jo

(Hannah insisted that this picture be in cartoon form...okay then)

One of the newest members of the 2nd grade clan is Nick...the birthday boy.

He is Hannah's newest flame.

Hannah has informed me that Nick is now her boyfriend. Here is how the conversation went...

Hannah: Mama...Nick is my boyfriend now.
Me: Well, what happened to the other little dude that was your boyfriend YESTERDAY?
Hannah: We broke up...but he doesn't know it yet.
Me: Well, when are you planning on telling him?
Hannah: Monday
Me: Oh, okay. Did Nick ask you to be his girlfriend?
Hannah: Nope
Me: Well, how did you come to the conclusion that he's your boyfriend
Hannah: I told him he was.
Me: Okay then...you just told him?
Hannah: Yep

Oh, poor little Nick. You don't have a clue what you have gotten yourself into!

Look at him GO, GO, GO...

2011-02-25T15:22:00.003-06:00

When we first introduced Timofey to the contraption, he was not diggin' it. He could not stand his new device that enabled him to be an upright little chub. He was perfectly content to booty scoot to any and every destination and he was well aware that his way got him there the fastest.

Since my "clerical triplets" are now attending preschool 5 days a week...Timofey has many more encounters with his awesome PT who wants nothing more than to see Timofey in a vertical position struttin' his stuff down the hallway of his school.

When she visited today, she took that contraption and loosened some screws, rearranged some parts, flipped some pieces all around and just like that...a miniature trainer for an unusually tiny boy. So it fits...but I was still a little concerned about his different size legs. This smart cookie had all the answers. She took his shoe off of his foot on the "good" leg and left his shoe on the not so good leg. His legs once again measured up...they were just about perfect. Wow...those trained professionals know all the tricks of the trade. She even sent me a little video starring the walking sensation himself.

SO, here is Timofey and his semi-independent walking debut...

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com