Table For Seven

Happy New Year

2012-01-19T21:58:00.000-08:00

Its been a long time since i have posted but things are smooth(for us). Which means no major life changes in the past year . I am happy to report Kati is finally on the growth chart.Kati and Elle are both loving school and have come so far. Attachment and bonding seem to be great. We adore them and I truly know they adore us. It was just "meant to be". The boys are all doing great. Zach is in Kansas City running his crossfit gym. He has found what he loves and is so happy. We talk all the time and are very close. Andy is now 15. He is a blast. It is so fun to watch him grow up. he has the best sense of humor and can laugh at himself . Sid is in 6th grade and is our social one he is the class clown. He informed me today he was trying out for the school play . He wants to be a monkey??????? I have learned to just go with it. Gray is still into wresteling. He is our wild child with the sweetest heart in our family. Life is good and i am excited to sit down and read blogs I have not gotten to in a long time. Alot of people i have connected with on facebook. It is so cool to watch our kids from Russia grow up. HappyNew Year. I pray that 2012 is a great year.

The Box

2011-09-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

I was going through the girls closet and I saw the box. It was a gift from my friends when they gave me the most beautiful shower I have ever been to.The shower was a couple of weeks after we got home with the girls. The box is beautiful but its the inside that is so special. Cards were made with Kati and Elle's name on them (it went with the invitation). Each guest wrote a message to each girl. They wrote bible verses ,notes ,things they remembered when we got off the plane. I just sat in Kati and Elle's room and cried. I am so fortunate to live in a community who embraced our girls. It has been almost two years and it still seems like a dream when I think how God brought us all together. The every day can get hectic but when I step back I am just amazed at Gods plan.

First Day of School

2011-08-16T18:13:00.001-07:00

End of Summer

2011-07-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

It is the last week before kids go back to school and I have to say this has been a great summer. We have been busy but so good. The kids are getting so big . Kati and Elle are growing up so much and are so happy. They love each other so much and love life. They are going back to school next week. I am kind of sad. This morning the girls woke up early and wanted to go for a run. They told us they wanted to go to the new coffee placehttp://churchstreetshop.tumblr.com/( Our neighborhood Starbucks closed grrrrr).They were so good and I got to run 3 miles and then we checked out the new coffee place. The girls ate the best scones I have ever tasted. The coffee was great. We then went to the Tot Lot to play Two really good friends I have not seen in a while were there with their daughters. The girls played and I got to catch up with friends. I'm going to miss days like this getting back into the school rush!!!

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

we went to the endocrinologist yesterday . Kati has grown so much and has really leaned out. She was so chubby when she got home (SO stinken cute). Dr. Mick said this was due to the lack of growth hormone . Two years ago we were about to go meet Kati and Elle. Time is going by so fast. They are such a perfect fit for us and us for them. It makes me sad because there are not as many Russian adoptions taking place. I love to read Russian adoption blogs so if you have one that is not on my list will you let me know so I can follow?

Summer

2011-07-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

Summer is going great. It is so nice to have no schedules and to just go with the flow. This year we all went to New York City for vacation. It was a blast. We saw www.broadway.com/shows/mary-poppins. The boys and girls all loved it. They were so good. We stayed at http://www.courtyardtimessquare.com. We have alot of points left over from Russia and when wetravel we have to get two rooms so this comes in handy!!!! The girls are growing like crazy. Kati is catching up with Elle. . All is well in the Ortis household . The boys are getting older Andy will be going into the 9th grade. He and I made a trip to visit Zach in Kansas City at the beginning of the summer. We had a blast seeing his gym and he showed me all the places he grew up schools etc. I was scared it would be emotional but it was happy.

Almost Two Years

2011-07-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

I can not believe it is has almost been two years since we headed to Chita Russia to meet Kati and Elle. I have to say it was scary getting on a Russian airplane flying over Siberia with only one person who spoke a little English. He sat next to us. He tols us the people behind us thought we were spies. It scared me until we realized he was messing with us. He ended up talking to us ALL night long. We landed in Chita (they were 15 hours ahead of Alabama) at 8 am in the morning to meet Kati and Elle. It really was magical. I know all experiences are different (heck I have alot of kids it was different with all of them). I felt a bond with them immediately. I was prepared to have to work at attaching to them. I never thought it would come so easily for me. My husband is the one who felt like we needed to adopt at first and I thought he was crazy. It has been wonderful, crazy, and the best thing we have done.

Happy Birthday

2011-05-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

Kati and Elle are 4 today. We had a birthday party with friends at gymnastics. The girls are happy andloving life. Two years ago today we got our first travel dated to go to meet them.

Friends

2011-03-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

the Mullins

We are back from Spring Break and had a blast with our good friends The Mullins. Kati and Elle loved the beach and we all loved where we stayed. We rode bikes ,went swimming,and cooked out alot. Carrie Mullins and I became friends when we started the adoption process. We met at the neighborhood park. She said she knew we would be friends when she saw me in high heels talking on the phone and not realizing she was pushing Gray on the swing!!!!! I loved her because she talked fast and had adopted her first son and had on inappropiate high heels in the park!!! She was such a good friend through the whole adoption process. Her and her husband have had a really tough year and we have too with meeting Zach and all getting adjusted. One night we actually pulled a all nighter just talking and catching up. It was so good for my soul to just have girl talk . I am so lucky to have my friends in my life.

Chocoboys

2011-03-08T13:32:00.000-08:00

I am so excited. These were our favorite snacks in Russia . We brought back 30 boxes and were so sad when they were gone. I found them on Amazon!!!!!!!

2011-03-05T20:23:00.000-08:00

Kati and Elle are active little girls. They love to get into EVERYTHING!!!!!!! Yesterday while they napped I was in my room breathing. I heard noise in the kitchen and here is what I found!!!!! They are growing up so much. Kati has grown a total of 4 inches since September. We had her cleft clinic appointment last week and they said next surgery will b e in a year on her nose. Kati and Elle saw a picture of Kati on her medical chart . It was a pre- surgery picture . They got really big eyes and said Russia. I would LOVE to know what goes through their minds.

cleft clinic

Best Weekend

2011-02-26T22:55:00.000-08:00

We are having the greatest weekend. Zach is here and got to help coach Gray in his wrestling tournament. Gray won state!!!!!! We were all so excited . I had to pause and thank God for all of the restoration in my life. Never in a million years did I think my first born son would be coaching my youngest son. Zach told me that being able to share something that he loved with his little brother was such a gift to him. I can not believe all the blessings that have been given to me this year.

Updates

2011-02-22T22:45:00.000-08:00

Everyone is our family is doing great. Scott and I are really enjoying life right now. The kids are all doing good . Andy (14) is getting so tall. Sid (11) is doing well in school. Gray (6) is going to State for wresteling this weekend. Zach is in town to see him wrestle.(He was one of his coaches when he lived here) Zach is doing great in Kansas City. He and a friend are opening a Crossfit Gym in a couple of weeks. crossfit.com. I am so proud of him. In a couple of weeks the kids are off for spring break. We are going to Flordia for a week. We have rented a house for a week here.watercolorbeach.com. It will be fun even though it will be too cold to swim !!!!!

Valentines Day

2011-02-18T13:57:00.000-08:00

I have always loved February. Our anniversary is in February so we always celebrate Valentines Day with the kids.This year we started out giving the kids their Valentines Bag. They were so excited. The girls and Sid were the only ones who had Valentine parties at school. They had fun. We had my parents over for dinner and my Mom made a big heart cake. Fun day for all of us!!!

Half Marathon

2011-02-07T20:47:00.000-08:00

After training for 3 months the half marathon is this weekend. Our family is headed to New Orleand to meet up with Scotts side for fun and then the half marathon on Sunday. Training has been great. I have lost some weight,reduced stress, and basically feel like I am getting myself back. Alot of those runs came at just the right time to help me process things dealing with the adoption reunion. I am excited to be running this with my sister in law. We are going to have a blast. The girls are ready to go on a trip. They love hotels and cant wait to see Grandmother. Scott is going to have all the kids be at the finish line. We laugh and say running the race is the easy part. Herding out 5 kids around New Orleans not so easy!!!!

Adoptive Family Connections

2011-01-25T18:13:00.000-08:00

I had the best time today talking to a adoptive Mom of a precious little girl adopted 10 months ago.megerlesrussianadoptionjourney.blogspot.com/. It is so neat to talk to another person that has been to Russia and has had the experience of international adoption. There is just a special bond that is instantly there. We talked because of our blogs. I love to read other peoples adoption blogs. It is kind of crazy but I feel like I know so many families I have never met!!

Dr. Visit

2011-01-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

Kati and Elle had their visit to the endocronologist. Kati is on growth hormones and has grown 2 inches in the last couple of months. This is fast. We are excited. Elle has moved into th 25percentile on the growth chart. Kati has moved up to the negative two percentile. They said today Kati will be about 5'2 when she is grown. I wish I would have asked how tall she would have been is she would not have taken growth hormone. The Dr. said that they have alot of patients adopted from Russia. She said all of them seemed well adjusted and thriving. It seems like you only hear the bad so it was nice to hear that. Here is a picture of how they like to dress themselves . Kati always puts on bathing suit/leotard winter hat. Elle always chooses the blue sparkley too small shoes and tight leggings and a short shirt. They are so funny!!!

Twins

2011-01-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

Today all the kids are home from school and it has been a good day. My oldest friend in Birmingham stopped by and we played with the girls. She said she was amazed at how much more they were talking and how their personalities had come alive. They are so funny. Kati and Elle truly speak their own language. In Russia they had been seperated . Elle was moved to the toddler group and Kati stayed with the baby group. I can not imagine how hard it was for them. They are so close. We found out in Russia that if we would have declined adopting the girls they were going to adopt Elle seperately. They said she would be adopted easily.Children with clefts are not easily adopted by Russians. I am so glad that God led us to them . It was worth all the anxiety and stress to find our daughters. They love each other so much . I love the fact that when they go to school they are together. Their personalities are so different Kati is outgoing and Elle is shy. They give each other courage.

Snow Snow Go Away

2011-01-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

The older boys went back to school today at 10 . They have been out all week due to the snow. In Alabama snow will shut everything down. The girls loved playing outside in the snow/ice. Today I ran 10 miles getting prepared for the half marathon Febuary 13th. It was hard but I am so grateful for this outlet . My emotions seem to be getting more normal with Zach back in Kansas City. It seems like our relationship is going to be not as intense. This is a great thing.I feel like we really worked through alot of adoption issues and both of will now be able to have a normal relationship.(If that exist) Kati and Elle are really fun little girls. I love to just sit outside their room and listen to them talk. Their newest thing is playing with their tea cart. Little girls are so much fun.I am feeling a little less stressed and I think 2011 is going to be a great year.

Trip to Boston

2011-01-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from our tripW

Happy New Year

2011-01-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and I just kind of felt like myself. Sid was in a spelling b. We went to watch him and then I returned some christmas stuff and got Andy his birthday presents. Zach called me to tell me he had a job interview. We talked for a little while and when we hung up it seemed normal. We had a breakthrough of sorts a couple of days ago. This sounds so crazy but I finally accepted that Zach loved me and I could just rest in our relationship . One of the hardest things about our relatioship for me was who are we to each other?. He said his Mom always told him he had two Moms. As crazy as it sounds I had to work through being ok with that. Alot of my friends who have adopted (domestically) had a hard time with our situation. They said it must be so tough for Zachs Mom. I am sure it was horrible. She says that there is enough love to go around and everyone has a place. I owuld not really embrace this at first I wanted him to love me so much more. I KNOW this is wrong and I am a adoptive Mom but this has been my struggle. The other day I finally honestly realized how much I love Zachs parents and how special they are to have raised a son who could move to Alabama to forge relationships with his birth family. It was hard letting him go back. I had some of the same feelings I had 23 years ago as I walked out of the hospital empty handed. I know Zachs Mom must have felt alot of those emotions as she watched him drive away to live with his birth mother. (He is a only child). We both emailed each other and told each other how much we loved each other and our son. I have a peace I have not had for 24 years. I am grieving but I am so excited to be a part of his life . A funny story... Elle and Kati call people all the time from my phone without me knowing. They called Dee (Zachs mom) and had a conversation. Dee told me she was impressed with their speech. She said she had a cleft as a child and was in speech for years. We knew Kati and Elle were our children because of Katis cleft. There have been a couple of children born on Scotts side with clefts. It was almost Gods way of telling me they were the right parents. We laughed and said how strange my adopted daughters called my biological sons adopted mother. Life is bizarre.

2011-01-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

Zach left this morning and we both just cried and hugged. We will always be close and I feel like God has healed alot. I am raw right now . I feel lost with him gone and the kids all in school. I am so grateful I know him and I will forever be grateful to his parents for encouraging him to come.

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2011-01-05T08:12:00.001-08:00

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2011-01-03T09:58:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year. We are on a plane coming home from a trip to Boston.We had a great time and I am excited to get home and get into a routine. Zach is moving home tomorrow and it will be good. The reunion process was a lot more painful than I expected and I would advise anyone to take it slow. there are so many emotions that are uncovered and processing them takes time. I know God will bring good out of it I just have not understood what good has happened. I go from being sad hurt and so angry. Zach seems just fine and does not seem to be going through as much. I am glad about that. It may be just everything happened so soon after the girls and I am emotionally exhausted. When I get still my spirit is calmed and I get peace from God but sometimes my emotions can drown out that peace in a second. I think I am working through forgiving myself for the adoption and the reality of what really happened. I know this post is so gloomy but like I said I am still processing all of this. Adoption is really such a paradox.Out of one womans pain grief and failure another woman recieves a child to love.Getting Kati and Elle was one of the most joyous days of our lives. I have always thought about that russian woman who will always carry the pain of losing two beautiful daughters. i know that God has given women the love for their children but some women either can not raise their children because we live in a fallen world. People get mad at birthmothers because of maybe not taking care of yheir babies in the womb or maybe after birth but I believe if this happened it is because the woman is damaged and doing the best she can.As adoptive mothers I think the best gift we can give our children is loving and forgiving the broken women that carried our children. they will always be our childrens first mothers.Most of us that have adopted from Russia will never deal with reunion but it has made me think.

Before and After

2010-12-12T19:26:00.000-08:00

before

after

before

after

before

our very first picture

Great Weekend

2010-12-12T17:03:00.000-08:00

We have had a great weekend. Scott and I have gone out both nights this weekend to Christmas parties. We went and then cut out early to go out to eat. It has been good to spend time together. The kids are all getting excited about Christmas. I am almost done shopping and have our Christmas cards out. Today after church we went to our club and ate brunch with Santa. The girls LOVE Santa. Elle is so funny. She is our techno whiz. She proceeded to tell us she wanted a Ipad for Christmas. We said no way you are 3. She looked at us seriously and said can I get a computer??????What ??????? I said no way again but I will say she can work the computer better than most adults!!! lol Zach has not moved home he wanted to spend Christmas with us and I am thrilled!!!!! Things are going good on that end.

Visiting Santa

2010-12-07T20:28:00.000-08:00

Our family went to visit Santa tonight and then went out to eat sushi. What a difference a year makes. Kati and Elle LOVED Santa . Last year they cried and were so scared this year they hugged him and told him they loved him. We went out to eat after and Elle has fallen in love with sushi.

Half Marathon

2010-12-05T17:14:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law and I have started training to run in a half marathon in Febuary in New Orleans!!!!!!!!

Readoption

2010-12-05T17:08:00.000-08:00

We readopted Kati and Elle in the Alabama state court. This will give them a American birth certificate. It was alot different than the Russian court. We basically went in, the judge told us how cute the girls were, and we signed some paper. Easy!!!!!!

Christmas Season Begins

2010-11-25T22:03:00.000-08:00

I am at the hotel in Louisiana not able to sleep. I am being picked up by my sister in law for a shopping trip at 4;45 in the morning. We are starting at Toys R Us. I really do not want to over buy this year because I always do and promise myself next year I will not do it again.It is depressing and the kids don't even want the junk!!!I can not believe the count down is on!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

We are on our way to Louisiana for Thanksgiving.All of us are in the suburban and the kids are rowdy.I can not believe the Holidays are here.I also can't believe it's Kati and Elles second thanksgiving.They are excited about turkey.Everyone have a great day.I am so thankful for Scott,all 6 of my children, My parents ,family,and friends.

Adoption Reunion

2010-11-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

As many of you know I was reunited with my birthson in June. He decided to move to Birmingham in August. It has been great , horrible,confusing exciting,sad and very very hard. After much prayer tears and pain we have decided that he will move back to Kansas City. We will continue our relationship and I will always be thankful I have gotten to know him. God has used this time to heal places in my heart that have been stuffed with silent pain for years. When Zach would not return my phone call or when he would leave I would become panicked. I would get so panicked I would say hateful things to him that just shocked me.He has forgiven me and been understanding. Where was this coming from? I felt like I was thrown back to being 18 years old.I was having my first baby scared and lonely. I really did not know what to do with all of the emotions and pain. YesterdayI had friends pray for me and we prayed through the adoption history. When Zach was born he was rushed out of the room. I wanted to scream.I felt so helpless. I felt like my insides would die and I had to numb that pain to survive.I was able to keep most of it numb unless it was his birthday. It came back full force when I met Zach and met what my true loss was. That pain would come up whenever I felt like he was leaving.I had erected towers around my heart so I would never hurt like that again.It sounds so strange but my friends told me to picture myself giving him to Jesus . I did this and a peace came flooding my mind and heart. We had the best talk today and when he was talking about moving home I did not panic I had peace. I would not trade this time for anything. It is truly a miracle. It is funny 24 years ago yesterday I found out I was pregnant with Zach and yesterday my heart was healed from the pain of losing him. I wish I knew what God has in store for all of us but time will tell. This has given me so much compassion for Kati and Elles mother. She is in Russia but she is a real live person that I know from experience is living with a pain in her heart that will last a lifetime. Yes God does mend the broken hearted but he never said we would be without pain. I pray for their mother this Thanksgiving that she will find healing for her broken heart too. Happy Thanksgiving.

I Need To Get Organized

2010-11-15T16:16:00.000-08:00

Kati and Elle are doing great. Our transition has been smooth. The only time I see glimpses of their former life is when they will occasionally rock themselves to sleep when they are extremely tired. They are happy most of the time. I am learning to juggle all the children. Honestly since my birthson moved to Birmingham I have been struggeling with guilt that I am not being the best Mom I can be. I am 42 years old and chasing 2 three year olds is very tiring. I would not change a thing I am just tired emotionally spirtually and physically. I want to be more organized and learn to pace myself. Yesterday I just wanted to go away. I feel so guilty saying that but honestly I need to get some order in my life. We made the boys clean out their closet this weekend and are trying to clean out the clutter.All of the clutter in my house has cluttered my head!!!! I really think that if I got up earlier ran and had time to just be still with God I would be a different person. I love my husband and kids so much I just need to be able to think.I know God never gives more than we can handle but seriously I think I need to get some more help with organization!!!!!

Happy Gotcha Day. Home One Year

2010-10-10T13:44:00.001-07:00

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Halloween Costumes

2010-09-07T15:06:00.000-07:00

I am so excited I just ordered Halloween costumes . Kati and Elle will be a kitty cat and Gray will be a pirate. I love Chasing Fireflys. I ordered the girls these little dresses too. I LOVE dressing Kati and Elle because they love clothes . The boys just want to look as dirty as they can. They will dress up only when we MAKE them.

chasingfireflys

Almost Home a Year

2010-09-06T19:51:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that the girls have been here for almost a year. It has been a great first year and we truly love our daughters. They are such a joy and we just smile at them. They lookso different from a year ago.

2010-09-06T18:44:00.001-07:00

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School Starting

2010-08-20T05:42:00.000-07:00

The older boys and Kati and Elle started school and I think it is going to be a great year. Gray has not started but will enter first grade next week. Kati and Elle started their pre school. The first day I dropped them off Elle looked anxious. She started crying and Kati grabbed her hand and told her it was ok. I just wanted to cry.When I picked them up they were so excited and now LOVE going to school. Zach has move to Birmingham. It is going great. He is staying with my parents and they are loving him being there. He has helped do some landscaping in their yard. We always have prayed that God would let us be a part of his life and boy did he answer !!!It is really interesting going through this having a birthmother and adoptive mother perspective. I have not figured it all out but I know God is in the middle.

2010-08-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Schoolstaryts next week and Kati and Elle will start pre-school and go Monday-Thursdays. They are so excited to start school and when we pass Sids school they think that is where they will go . I am ready to get into our routine. This has been a strange summer with my emotions all over the map with meeting Zach. Things seem to be calming down. The girls are going to take dance and gymnastics.

Potty Training

2010-08-04T06:47:00.000-07:00

We are potty training. Its going great. Every time Kati and Elle go to thw potty they get to pick something out of the treasure chest. The treasure chest consist of a bunch of junk from the dollar store.They are loving it. So far so good!!!!We also have gotten them princess undies.Life is good.

new routine

2010-07-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

As school is about to start I have decided I am going to try a new exercise routine. I am going to start Crossfit. It is supposed to be really intense and hit everything you need to be fit. I want to lose 15-20 lbs. I keep trying things and more stress hits my life. Good stuff but it makes going on a diet seem so unimportant. Now I want to take control of my health and diet and feel good!!!! I will update how the diet and exercise is going.I start Saturday!!!

2010-07-25T05:58:00.001-07:00

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School Starting

2010-07-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

Kati andElle are starting school in a few weeks. They are going to a early intervention pre-school. They have been tested and both have tested at their age level!!!!!!! This is awesome because they had only been in America 7 months and wetre testing like a average american 3 year old. Elle is going as a model student. Kati barely qualified with her pronunciation. She will have speech everday.I am going to miss having my baby girls with me everyday!!! I have been buying some fall clothes . Here are some of the things I have gotten.

2010-07-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

Life is busy even with the two boys at camp. We have remodeled our bathroom in the midst of this crazy summer. This means at 8 am men are in my bathroom. I am so ready to not have guest so early so I can just drink coffee in my nightgown. Kati and Elle are full of themselves. They LOVE to play with Gray. Gray gave both of them a haircut. I wanted to kill him!!!!!!! Zach is still planning on moving. I talked to his mother for a long time last night. We both talked about howstrange this was but she said she is happy for him. Zachs parents are excited he will know his brothers. We are still working on details. This has been such a crazy summer Im kind ofready for fall and the schedules.

A Year Ago Today

2010-07-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

One year ago today we walked into a orphanage in Chita Russia and met our daughters. Everbodys story is different but we fell instantly in love and it has not changed. The trip was magical but it was hardleaving them. We met Kati first and then Elle. I can not believe that it has been a whole year.

Identical

2010-07-19T23:01:00.000-07:00

. We found out a couple of weeks ago that Kati and Elle are identical twins. That is crazy.We now need to have a M.R.I on Elle to see if she has a small pitutary gland. Kati will start growth hormones in a couple of weeks. We are so happy to finally know!!

Table For Eight

2010-07-16T23:58:00.000-07:00

We are moving along with life.Heres a brief update Kati had a concussion today and went to hospital. She had a cat scan and is fine and is home. Zach the biological son is moving to our city so we have been in counseling making sure we transition the best way possible. He wants to live in Birmingham and go to school.Andy is going to camp this weekend so I will be minus a kid. Life is crazy but good. We have had so many changes over the last 2 years we are trying to slow down. I guess we are about to be A Table For Eight!!

Another Side of Adoption

2010-07-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

I really dont know how to start this but my life has truly come full circle. When I was in highschool I had a baby that was adopted.I can not describe the heartache and questions that have followed me over the last 23 years. About a month ago I recieved a email from my birthson. We have talked and laughed and cried for hours over the phone. He has come to our home twice. It has been wonderful ,sad, happy,crazy. My emotions have been all over the board.It was a totally closed adoption so many hours have been spent filling in what happened 23 years ago. I am still trying to wrap my mind around all of this and where we fit in each others lives. I feel like we are the craziest family I know but yet I feel so blessed.Here is the message that I got. My heart stopped!!!

Zach June 10 at 9:31pm

are you from springfield

Lynn June 11 at 12:01am

I lived there a long time ago.Why? Do I know you?

Zach June 11 at 12:08am

did you give a boy up for adoption named jeremy

Zach June 11 at 12:08am

if so thats me

Lynn June 11 at 12:10am

where are you and are you ok/ I have been praying for you. How can I talk to you?

Zach June 11 at 12:11am

816 2 call me i would love more than anything to talk to you

Lynn June 11 at 12:11am

Can I call now?

Lynn June 11 at 12:12am

What is your birthday?How did you find me?

Zach June 11 at 12:12am

yes please

Zach June 11 at 12:13am

apr 10 1987

Reply:

Fathers Day in Hawaii

2010-06-20T21:36:00.001-07:00

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Still Here

2010-06-19T23:42:00.000-07:00

We are having such a great time here in Hawaii. We have met alot of adoptive famalies and all the kids have had a blast. I am about to go private on the blog so if you want to follow email me and I will add you to the list. Things are about to happen (graet things) and I just want to feel safe as we figure it out!!!! I am not pregnant,getting divorced,sick ,or adopting. It is just part of my crazy life!!!

Hawaii

2010-06-19T11:44:00.001-07:00

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New Season

2010-06-14T00:20:00.000-07:00

I have had a miracle happen that I am not yet ready to share all the way. My life has truly come full circle and I am amazed. My life is so complete and some things that have happened in my life are all coming together and it is amazing the timing. My best friend told me I should go on the Oprah show lol. I will share what has happened as I process it all in my head. I am not pregnant!!!!We are leaving to go to Hawaii on Thursday and then the day we get back is when things will get really interesting!!! The verse Isiah 43 5-6 has a whole new meaning for me!!

My Poor Kids!!!

2010-06-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

I love to make my kids clothes match. I know I am such a dork but I have always been this way. When I was a kid I would want my friends to all match . My boys will go along with it to make me happy but only on special occasions. They think I am crazy. Scott refused to go along with the plan in Moscow. A bunch of Japanese flight attendants laughed at our family and wanted to take pictures of themselves with our kids in Moscow. They were totally making fun of us!!!! The boys would only take a picture with their coats covering their matching shirts.It was so funny.

International Adoption Clinic Visit

2010-06-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

We had our 6 month follow up at the internation adoption clinic here in Birmingham Alabama. (We have been home 8 months). We started with the attachment specialist. She said she saw no attachment issues at all and was suprised at how well they have done. It can be hard to adopt two at once she said but the girls are perfect for us and us for them!!!! No issues here! The next person was a developement person. Elle is developementally on track. Kati is in all areas but speech. She is testing a couple months behind. They start a early intervention preschool in the fall. Elle is going as a role model and Kati qualified in speech so no worries here. Here is where it gets interesting. Kati has not grown much at all . We will go back to the endocronoligist to start growth hormones in a month due to her small pitutary gland. The Dr. wants the tested to see if they are identical (she thinks they are). Elle has grown more but if they are identical she will have a pitutary gland issue too and will need growth hormones. The Dr. was shocked that the genetics found nothing. She said what we have said all along that they were so close to having ALOT wrong but got spared!!!! We will test to see if they are identical and hopefully know in a few weeks.

Amazing Swimmers!!!!

2010-06-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

After the swim lessons the girls LOVE to swim. Its kind of funny because in Moscow they screamed bloody murder when we gave them their first bath. They are little fish now. I had alot of people come up to me at the pool today wanting to know where I had sent the girls to swim lessons. I think they are good swimmers but they were just in the baby pool!!!! I soon realized these people thought the girls were 1!!!! They were shocked when I told them they are 3. We had alot of fun today swimming and then coming home and playing on our new playset and cooking hamburgers when Daddy came home!!!

Gotcha Day

2010-06-04T18:51:00.001-07:00

Kati and Elle LOVE to watch their videos All the time and so I made them a gotcha day video. It is long but they will have the pictures of the orphanage and pictures of the 6 hour flight across Siberia to just get to Moscow. This day will always be one of the most important in our family history. It is our birthday to become a family.

!

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What A Difference A Year Makes

2010-06-03T22:27:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Kati and Elle on our first trip last Summer.

Some New Pictures

2010-06-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

The first week of summer has come and gone and I am loving it. It is so nice to have no homework. We are all getting excited about our trip on the 17th to Hawaii. It will be a long flight but not as long as Russia.

Happy Adoption

2010-05-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

I am a little upset today about all the negative stories I have been hearing about russian adoption. I know things can go wrong but it seems like you never hear about the things that go right. I was at a store the other day when someone asked me what I thought about the woman who sent her child back to Russia . (I think she is a selfish psycoabcnews.go.com/WN/anger-mom-adopted-boy-back-russia/story?id=10331728. )The store person said the woman should have known she would have problems because all the russian children have fas. I did not know what to say and I paused and quickly said that I knew more happy stories about kids adopted from Russia than bad. My mother bear instinct kicked in. Kati and Elle are my little girls period. It is annoying to have people make statements that they have no idea what they are talking about.These are children not just some poor little orphans or some psyco orphans. We so far have had a great transition. The girls are attached and are so smart.I love to read other families blogs that have adopted and I felt protective of them too. I wish there were more stories of happy adoptions out there too. I know you cant go into it not knowing the risk but I can't even imagine our lives without Kati and Elle OR their lives without us.

Summer Countdown

2010-05-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day. All the kids are winding down except Andy(7th grade). Sid and Gray are out Wednesday for the Summer and Andy is busy studying for finals. Kati and Elle played with neighbors today and the Moms just sat outside with no shoes. I LOVE summer!!!! We only have about 3 weeks until our Hawaii trip.

ati and Elles 3rd Birthday

2010-05-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

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Mother in Russia

2010-05-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Kati and Elles third birthday. It is tomorrow in Chita. Scott and I have been thinking about Kati and Elles birthmother. I know her heart is probably heavy today as she remembers that three years ago Daria and Alina were born. She nutured them the first 8 months of their life . Our adoption clinic told us it was obvious the girls were nutured as babies because of the way they have attached. I know a birthmother and know that she would have loved to recieve a letter like this one and I wish I could send it to her. Hopefully one day.

Dear E,
Today the girls are three. They are happy and healthy and so loved. I love to hold them and smell their hair after we have bathed them. I love the way they laugh as they jump on the trampoline or run to the door when thier Daddy comes home. We love them so much it hurts. We know you do too. I dont know why you were not able to raise them but I have no doubt that you love them. We are so blessed because of them and we promise we will always cherish the gift of raising these two little girls. They have so much life in them and I wish you could see Elle protecting Kati. They both love to play and celebrate life. They have been asking all week when is their birthday ??? They are having their party tomorrow with friends and family that adore them. We will always have this connection even though we probably will never meet you. Daria and Alina have changed our lives so much. We promise help them find who God has called them to be. They are so special and I know alot of that is because of you. I wish I could hug you and let you know we will finish what you were not able to.

Almost Three years old

2010-05-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost here and I cant stop thinking about how things have changed so much in one year, This time last year we were waiting for our travel date. It would come on Kati and Elles 2nd birthday. We did not know at the time it was their birthday. I had seen a picture of them but was still scared to meet them. I was a stressed out freak. I worried that I was getting in over my head . We would later travel in July for our first trip and fall completely in love. My heart still warms up when I think how this has all played out. I know adoption can be so hardbut honestly we have not had many issues . The transition has been almost seamless. Friday is Kati and Elles 3rd birthday. We are having a small birthday party where they will get princess crowns and make princess pink bears. The girls wake up and ask everyday if it is their birthday party. I ask them if they had birthday parties at the detsky dom(orphanage). They both say no. I can't wait to see their faces at their party. They will have pink cupcakes at the party. We always have a family cake too. I ordered one with pink icing with two little ballerinas. The theme this year is pink they are all about it. The picture is from a birthday party we went to that Kati and Elle have not stopped talking about. They are having their party here.

Recital (last 2 are Elle and Kati is last)

2010-05-16T10:49:00.001-07:00

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swim lessons

2010-05-15T19:00:00.001-07:00

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Some Pics

2010-05-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

Mom of 5

2010-05-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day. I love being a mother. I love watching my kids grow and learn. I hate seeing them go through hurt. Right now today I feel like all 5 are in a good place. This is such a great feeling. It is crazy with 5 but I can not imagine life any other way. Kati and Elle had their first recital today. They had so much fun. At the end of their dance they have to walk off the stage and each walk out and say their name in a microphone. Kati and Elle were last. Elle went before Kati and stayed on the stage while Kati walked out. She did this because she thought Kati needed to be picked up because she could not reach the microphone. It was so funny. I had a friend come up to me after this and say it was so cool watching them that they had to be sent from God directly from heaven. I walked off thinking wow if she only knew the smells in the orphanage or the poverty. It is amazing how different their life is. Our community has embraced and loved these two little girls from Siberia. All I can say is it is such a God thing. If anyone ever wonders if they should adopt I will say learn all you can. I heard alot of scary things and I am so glad we kept going. The joy our family is experiencing is so unreal to me . I would be the last person I would think that would say that but its true. Today I am just overcome with the joy of getting to be the Mom of these 5 special kids. Truly each one is so perfect for our family.Life goes by so fast and I wish I could find a way to slow it down. These are just the sweetest days.

Last Day of Movement at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-05-06T05:15:00.001-07:00

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Nutbar On The Treadmill!(This makes me laugh)

2010-05-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

Suprise Twins

2010-05-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

Someone posted and asked if we knew we were adopting twins. NO !!!!!!! In January 2008 my totally normal husband said God told him we had a daughter in Russia. I was TICKED!!!!! God knew not to throw the twin thingy in there at the time. Three kids was alot and I was no Mother Goose!!!! God had to show me this was his plan and I became convinced. Honestly I thought I was not a good enough mother to take on another child. Here is the post on the day we got the twins referal.

Twins
April 2, 2009
I never thought that Kati was not just Kati but 2 little girls. Russia adoptions have become much more difficult and I have never even dreamed of having sisters. Scott and I are so excited but scared. Some friends have asked us if we are prepared but we are not. How do you prepare to do something that you had no idea was even a remote possibility 3 days ago? This has truly been placed in our lap so no we are not prepared but we have an incredible peace that God will do what he plans to do and we can just trust that he has this in control.I know that this is such a gift and I will love and cherish these little girls and they will know how much we have ached for them(even though we did not know it was them). Our families are so excited and the boys are ready to get their little sisters. Kati will probably have surgery soon after we get her home so we have been researching cleft palats and Birmingham has one of the top Dr.s for this. We are so excited to complete our family and are so thankful for the chance that we are being given

Adopting a Child With A cleft

2010-05-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

When we decided to adopt we did not start out thinking we would adopt special needs. Kati has been the biggest blessing and is doing great. She has done great with eating and speech. We could not love her more than we do. When I look back at pictures of her before the surgery I am amazed at how far she has come.

May Holidays

2010-05-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

May is a crazy time in Russia they celebrate the following holidays.

Spring and Labour Day

In the former Soviet Union, 1 May was International Workers' Day and was celebrated with huge parades in cities like Moscow. Though the celebrations are low key nowadays, several groups march on that day to protest grievances the workers have. Several communist states (Cuba, North Korea and Vietnam) still hold this day as an official occasion with a military parade and columns of weapons and workers.

[edit]Victory Day

Every 9 May, Russia celebrates the victory over Nazi Germany, while remembering those who died in order to achieve it. On 9 May 1945 (by Moscow time) the German military surrendered to the Soviet Union and the Allies of World War II in Berlin (Karlshorst). A military parade is held in Moscow to celebrate the day. Victory Day (День Победы Den Pobedy) is by far one of the biggest Russian holidays. It commemorates those who died in WWII and pays tribute to survivors and veterans. Flowers and wreaths are laid on wartime graves and special parties and concerts are organized for veterans. In the evening there is a firework display. A huge military parade, hosted by the President of the Russian Federation, is annually organized in Moscow on Red Square. Similar parades are organized in all major Russian cities.

[edit]

I know alot of adoption things are slowed down for the holidays. It seemed like when we were in the process the whole country would shut down whenever there was a Russian Holiday!!!

In our own little world we have been all over the place.This week has been crazy. The boys are all playing baseball and the school year is winding down. May is just as crazy as Christmas time with 3 school aged boys and 2 toddlers. This week Kati and Elle will start swim lessons. I dont even know what to expect!!!! We are going to go every day for a hour for 2 weeks.

Booked Trip

2010-04-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

We booked our trip to Hawaii today. We got a great deal on our flights from miles left over from Russia. I am so excited. This is where we are staying. http://www.grandwailea.com/. We got 2 rooms that connect so I think all of the kids will have a great time.

Elle is sick

2010-04-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

Elle had a cough and high fever. We went to the Dr. Kati and Elle were in rare form. They LOVE going to the Dr. I have never seen anything like it!!! Elle put herself in time out??? She still has a fever but is on the mend. It is just a bug.

Some random pictures

2010-04-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

Summer Plans

2010-04-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

I am not believing summer is almost here!!!! In one month all of the kids will be here all day long!!! Tomorrow I need to sit down and try to schedule some things for the kids to do so they will not try to watch T.V and eat chips all summer long. We are going to try to go to Hawaii maybe in June or July so that is one week. Kati and Elle are taking swim lessons the beginning of May. The diet I have started 100 times has not stuck. I have about a month to lose some weight before I have to get in a swimsuit. Tomorrow I have decideds is the day to begin the summer shed!!!! I wonder if other people gain weight when they adopt??????

Changes at 6 Months Home

2010-04-24T19:58:00.000-07:00

1. both girls understand everything we say
2. both can speak in short sentences
3. are VERY attached
4. have not been sick
5. love to play with other kids
6. are the funniest little girls ( laugh at things I cant believe they get)

I am loving seeing Kati and Elle change everyday. They will be 3 next month and I keep thinking about their birthmother across the world. My heart hurts for her . I know she is thinking about the girls and I wish I could let her know they are so loved and cherished.

Spring Day

2010-04-22T18:32:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautiful spring day.Kati ,Elle and I went for a 3 mile run with a friend and her little girl that is one month younger than the girls. We then picked up lunch and let the girls eat and play at the tot lot. It was alot of fun. Kati and Elle love playing with Helen their little friend.Tonight we had a baseball game . I love Spring!!!

weekend pictures

2010-04-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend We ate breakfeast at I HOPBaseball gamesFun birthday party!!!

Dentist

2010-04-19T16:41:00.000-07:00

I took the girls and Sid and Gray to the dentist today. I was scared. The girls had never brushed their teeth the 2.5 years in Russia. I could not believe that they had NO cavaties. They loved the dentist. They got x-rays and did so good. I am also happy to report the boys have no cavaties either. Andy goes Wednesday so I am crossing my fingers.

Our Final Adoption video Trips 1 and 2 We Are The Truth at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-04-17T18:42:00.003-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

6 Months Home

2010-04-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

I can not believe we have been home for 6 months. The girls have changed so much. Here are some differences
1. Can speak in some short sentences
2. Elle has grown probably 3 inches
3.Kati has grown 1.5 0r 2 inches
4. both love to play with other children
5. Elle is having more temper tantrums
6. Kati is having less tantrums
7. not scared of Hogan the dog.They do not scream every time they see a dog
8. have gone up a size in clothes
9. are more picky with what they will eat
10. we still have some rocking at night

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11. they love to play with older girls in the neighborhood

Adoption Granted!!

2010-04-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for this family cupcakeandthecaseys.blogspot.com/ that picked up their beautiful baby. She is from the same region as Artyem Saveliev. I am praying that Russia will continue letting people adopt.

Help Children to Come Home

2010-04-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.jcics.org/Russia.htm

Sad News for Russia Adoption Community

2010-04-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

msnbc.msn.com/id/36322282/

This story has really gotten me down. I am praying for all the families this has the potential to affect. The adoption process is stressful enough but this is so crazy. The whole way through the adoption we were told there were nothing but really unknowns. This mother must have not understood what adoption is. Children are not puppies. She could have reached out for help. I am so sorry that this has happened.

First Easter Home

2010-04-04T20:46:00.001-07:00

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Pre Easter Party

2010-04-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

2010-03-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Thw weather has been beautiful!!!! We have gone to the Tot Lot one day after dancing . Today Gray (6 years old) took a mental health day and we went to the Zoo. We had a great time. Kati and Elle had not been to a zoo since we all went to the Moscow Zoo.Moscowzoo.ru

My Montage 3/29/10 at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-03-29T21:54:00.001-07:00

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2010-03-29T16:34:00.000-07:00

This Time Last Year

2010-03-29T14:55:00.000-07:00

It was this time last year Scott called this agency lighthouseadoptions.net. We had just come home from Spring Break.He came home from work telling me about 22 month old twin girls . I thought he had lost his mind. We got pictures of the girls the next day .It seems like a million years ago!!!!!! Here is the first picture we saw of Kati and Elle. Here are some pictures of last years spring break and one of this years.

Grays Birthday

2010-03-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Grays birthday. He is such a sweet child and I could not imagine our life without him He turned 6 years old.

Spring Break is Almost Over

2010-03-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of Spring Break. The boys played with the neighbors and did not stop all day. I went walking with my neighbor and her little girl that is Kati and Elles age. We took the girls to the neighborhood park called the Tot-Lot. They had alot of fun playing and we realized how old mature we are compared to other Moms their age. I am so glad they have each other to play with.I am mstly glad I have 2 very good friends that have daughters their age!!!

Time

2010-03-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

I know when I was in the waiting stage I would wonder what would be the main obstacle that we would face? The girls health records were sketchy would that be it? Or would it be attachment? Would I be so overwelmed?I will be honest to say I have had some meltdowns but I had that too with one child. None of these are a issue. The girls are healthy ,smart and attached. I think the hardest thing for me has nothing to do with the girls but mainly my own guilt. I feel guilty because I have not been the friend , daughter etc.. that I would like to be to people I love. I pray that the people who I love understand where my life is right now.

Our Trip is Almost Over

2010-03-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun and we are flying home tomorrow morning. This was such a great trip. We have seen so many things and I am proud of how well the kids all did. The girls did not nap at all and we were on the go all day every day.They are all troopers!!

Here in San Francisco

2010-03-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

We are here in San Francisco having a blast. We had a delayed flight and had to spend Friday night in Atlanta but had fun. Last night when we got here we walked to China town and had great chinese food!!! Kati and Elle both were perfect on the flight and have been troopers!!!! We rode on the cable cars, Saw Golden Gate Bridge, took a cruise around Alcatraz, and went to the aquarium and wax museum all in one day!!! What a beautiful city. Our hotel is great. We have two rooms that connect that are huge!!!!!!

Spring Break

2010-03-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

We booked our trip for spring break last night. We are going to San Fransisco.We are leaving next Friday and coming home on Wednesday. We are staying at the Ritz Carlton. Does anyone have any ideas of fun things to do for a family with 5 kids in San Fransisco?

Going Shopping!!!

2010-03-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

I love to shop and especially for Kati and Elle. They get so excited about new clothes. They love having shoes and dresses!!!! Here are some of the things we have bought for spring and some we would love to buy !!

Social Security Office

2010-03-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

Today I did what I have dreaded to do since the adoption. I went and got Kati and Elles social security number. I dont know what I expected but it was no big deal.I had all the kids minus Andy. I am now getting all paperweork together for readoption in Alabama.

My Russian Ballerinas

2010-03-02T18:19:00.001-08:00

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Table For Seven

Happy New Year

The Box

First Day of School

End of Summer

Summer

Almost Two Years

Happy Birthday

Friends

Chocoboys

Best Weekend

Updates

Valentines Day

Half Marathon

Adoptive Family Connections

Dr. Visit

Twins

Snow Snow Go Away

Trip to Boston

Happy New Year

My Montage 1/4/11 at OneTrueMedia.com

Before and After

Great Weekend

Visiting Santa

Half Marathon

Readoption

Christmas Season Begins

Happy Thanksgiving

Adoption Reunion

I Need To Get Organized

Happy Gotcha Day. Home One Year

Halloween Costumes

Almost Home a Year

School Starting

Potty Training

new routine

School Starting

A Year Ago Today

Identical

Table For Eight

Another Side of Adoption

Fathers Day in Hawaii

Still Here

Hawaii

New Season

My Poor Kids!!!

International Adoption Clinic Visit

Amazing Swimmers!!!!

Gotcha Day

What A Difference A Year Makes

Some New Pictures

Happy Adoption

Summer Countdown

ati and Elles 3rd Birthday

Mother in Russia

Almost Three years old

Recital (last 2 are Elle and Kati is last)

swim lessons

Some Pics

Mom of 5

Last Day of Movement at OneTrueMedia.com

Nutbar On The Treadmill!(This makes me laugh)

Suprise Twins

Adopting a Child With A cleft

May Holidays

Spring and Labour Day

[edit]Victory Day

[edit]I know alot of adoption things are slowed down for the holidays. It seemed like when we were in the process the whole country would shut down whenever there was a Russian Holiday!!!

Booked Trip

Elle is sick

Some random pictures

Summer Plans

Changes at 6 Months Home

Spring Day

weekend pictures

Dentist

Our Final Adoption video Trips 1 and 2 We Are The Truth at OneTrueMedia.com

6 Months Home

Adoption Granted!!

Help Children to Come Home

[edit]

I know alot of adoption things are slowed down for the holidays. It seemed like when we were in the process the whole country would shut down whenever there was a Russian Holiday!!!