3 Girls and a blind guy

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-23T18:10:00.002-06:00

It's been entirely too long since we've posted, but we wanted to share pictures from our past year. It's been a good year, Jack is in his final year in his special pre-k program that has been preparing him for public schools. Ella is in 2nd grade and she's reading like crazy and loving her friends at school. Scott is in his senior year of college finishing his degree in college and I'm still working engaging students in volunteerism. We're a grateful family for so many wonderful things this year. We are grateful for our family and friends.

Enjoy,

Angela, Scott, Ella and Jack

A few of Jack's favorite things

2010-01-02T16:11:00.010-06:00

This is a vibrating snake and he really enjoys having the toy put on his head and he enjoys holding it. We found this on the www.Amazon.com site- you can search for toys for children with Special Needs Multi-sensory needs and you'll find a number of options

This ball is from the CVI store in Atlanta-

It has handles and an inflatable center- so it's handy when traveling. It comes in a larger size too. It's really light weight.
You can find this ball at www.visabilitystore.org They have a larger size so you can play with it outside- that I think would be fun for the summer!

This bean bag chair is a big favorite- Jack loves to fall into the chair.

A friend found this Cookie Monster- he talks to Jack and he loves this little guy.

The Bilibo was a recommendation from www.wonderbaby.org and Jack and Ella both love it. We've had several other children over to visit and they all love it! You can recline or spin- there are so many different ways to play with the Bilibo!

I've found a difficult task when raising a visually impaired child with other disabilities is finding toys that he will actually play with. We have so many toys that Jack just doesn't play with or just isn't engaged by- so this holiday season we had much better luck with the toys we selected for Jack. I continue to find that whatever we buy for Jack- he likes the toys more if we play with him- so tossing with the ball, and spinning him in the Bilibo and helping him fall into his bean bag chair- are all more fun if we're in the middle of it with him. We've seen great progress with Jack in the last few months in regards to his language development. His baby babbling is much better- he started babbling "dada dada" and he seems to say it when he's with Scott. And today while I fed him he babble "mama, mama" so I'm hopeful he means "ME"!!! Jack's lack of language has been the most difficult part of our journey. I find discovering new ways to play with him- whether with songs, books and new toys- it all helps us as continue to find ways to help encourage his language development.

So the journey continues....

Christmas Tour 2009

2009-12-29T19:16:00.003-06:00

We traveled to see friends and family this holiday season and we had the time of our lives. Jack traveled beautifully!! That was the absolute highlight of the trip. We've learned some thing this time around- our last long car trip- we attached toys to his head rest- and he pushed them away- this time I attached them to the drivers head rest and his so it went along his side- he played throughout the trip- and I would add toys at different stops- which kept him interested. Our last trip he hit his face and yelled throughout- this trip he baby babbled and rarely hit his face. He received several sensory toys for Christmas- I'll post pictures of some of his favorites. Our friends and family really got into finding just the "right" gifts for him to engage him- and we had some real winners!

Here's our picture video of our trip! Enjoy!

Merry Christmas! 2009 Video Christmas Card

2009-12-12T11:03:00.003-06:00

2009 has been one heck of a year- a mix of challenges and goodness- but as we reflect we finish the year thankful. We learned early in the year that 3 yr. old Jack has Cerebral Palsy- it leveled us and as Scott says "we learned that the hill ahead of us was steep and we had to bring our A-game to the journey." So we have- we've been learning what it means to advocate for Jack and we've just been plunging ahead parenting Jack and Ella with all our hearts. We've learned to celebrate the small stuff and we cling to hope as Jack makes his way in this world.

Friends, family and our community have been so good to us and for you we're grateful. This holiday season is so different for our family- we've tried to do less and focus on time together. So this year I decided to forgo the annual Christmas card, it's something Scott and I've done together for the last 7 years and we've really enjoyed it. But this year we decided to do something a little different. So to you our friends and family please accept this as our holiday wish for you a Merry Christmas, and a lovely and Happy New Year.
Much love,
Angela, Scott, Ella and Jack (and the third girl Tallulah, the wonder beagle)

Vacation

2009-06-06T17:00:00.004-05:00

How can you not love that face!?! He is a happy boy!

Ella and Papa Dana fishing

We recently took a vacation to a lake- Ella learned to fish and Jack enjoyed all the love from grandparents and cousins and attention he received. It was a great trip. We're learning the struggle of how to keep a 3 year old, visually impaired, toddler occupied during a 10 hour car trip! It was tough for the little guy. He struggles with sensory issues- so he was sensory seeking the entire trip!! So we kicked into high gear when we arrived home and started some intense sensory play time with him. I'll post pictures soon of his sensory play time. We're always looking for new ideas of ways to engage him in play.

Happy Birthday Jack!

2009-05-12T22:03:00.000-05:00

Jack turned 3 this week! Birthday's for Jack are simple and sweet. We're always looking for the "right" gifts for Jack. One Jack isn't engaged much by most toys- he's still figuring out how to play and how to explore with his hands rather than his eyes. So this year Jack received some counting maracas, bubbles and a big ball. He loves the big ball and the bubbles make him giggle! We learned about 10 weeks ago that Jack has CP and we're still learning what that means for him. He has more complex baby babbling with each passing day- and his speech therapist has heard him say "Hi!" and his teacher at school hears him say "Momma and DaDa" often. So with the coming year we're hoping Jack will develop some skills to communicate what he wants and needs. We've seen so much progress in Jack- we recognize we have a long road ahead of us- but he's doing so well! We're proud of him.

Race for the Cure 2009

2009-04-25T20:26:00.001-05:00

Each year my family participates in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure- this is our 5th year to walk- we do so for my mom Mary and cousin Annette who are both breast cancer survivors, and my Aunts Alberta Ruth and Betty Jean who both passed away after long battles with breast cancer. So today we walked- and we're moved by the tens of thousands of people who were walking for the same reason- because they too have been touched by breast cancer.

I love to see you smile

2009-02-28T07:16:00.001-06:00

We just learned from Jack's neurologist that we have a much steeper hill to climb as we prepare him for the future. It was quite sad for us to learn that his introduction into this world was more difficult than we originally knew. This week we've been buoyed by the support of friends and family- their prayers, kind words and encouragment has given us hope for the future- for Jack's future. The thing I've been reminded of over and over again this week is just how much I love this little family of ours- I was taking everyone to school one day and this song came on "I love to see you smile" and I realize- yes- my happiest times are watching the smiles of my sweet, sweet children. So I put this together for them.

Ice Storm 2009

2009-01-29T18:05:00.000-06:00

A view of our back yard

The roof was hit several times!

This is a view from the street

It's been a crazy few days- an ice storm hit Tuesday and after a few hours we felt we needed to get out of our home- and head for safety! We stayed with my parents. Our trees suffered the greatest amount of damage. We will need a new roof and a new fence. It's a mess. But we're all safe and we're hoping for power by the weekend. Keep us in your thoughts!

Here are a few pictures of our home.

2008 Our Blessings

2008-12-27T21:19:00.000-06:00

Our Blessings
Jack who’s laugh and curious nature gives us hope…Mom and Dad for everything they do for us to support us on this journey…Kathy for her kindness to us…Our sweet friends at BBBS…A safe trip to Africa….Our new friends the Scotts who share this journey of raising visually impaired children…Our lovely friend Jeannie, the artist and her sweet Bob…Janet and the amazing gift of our new oasis…our friends Jody…Hasson…Jessica…Jane….Danae…Cyndi…Rachel…Adrain… all have been incredibly kind to us this year….Dannie our sweet friend who we miss dearly and loved having near us for two years….Amy and JP who came for a visit….Annie who came for two visits and is my pastor….Our new church Rolling Hills where I’m learning about being church again….Jack’s new teacher LaDonna- who sees all his potential and truly loves him and he has blossomed with her…My work at the University and having the job of my dreams…My VAC students who make this work a joy…The CLCE staff I’m so grateful for them…Micha- my wonderful intern…And our sweet, sweet Ella- who give us so much joy….and Scott, I couldn't ask for a better companion and friend for this journey....and so many more…life is sweet!

Baking cookies!

2008-12-14T19:47:00.000-06:00

Ella and YaYa

For the last 4 years Ella, my mom and I have baked holiday cookies. It's always really fun and really messy. We had a great time yesterday baking cookies for our friends. We made some fabulous tasty treats!

Good times

2008-12-09T20:44:00.000-06:00

We're doing well- Jack is responding well to his seizure meds and we're waiting for an MRI next week. This is a long journey and we're learning so much along the way. We took our annual Christmas picture this weekend- Jack was not real cooperative- the flashing camera bugs him but we were able to get some nice shots. We hope you have a lovely holiday.

Happy Wedding Day Amy and JP!!!!

2008-11-29T12:35:00.000-06:00

Today our dear friends Amy and JP married in Georgia and we were with them in spirit! We took some pictures of the family- wishing them all our best for a happy life together. We love you dear friends!!! We hope you enjoy this special day!

Our prayer for you Amy and JP:

Go in peace, dear ones, for God has given you the greatest of all gifts, true love, love embodied, love promised and sworn, love twined to itself till death do you part.
May every word you speak and every breath you take in each other’s presence, be twice blessed, with truth and joy and may you walk together in strength each day of your lives. Amen

Love to you,

Angela, Scott, Ella, Jack and Tallulah

PS little man Jack was napping when we took pictures today- so we sent a picture of Ella swinging and singing to our sweet boy.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T21:51:00.000-05:00

Fall Festival Fun- Snow White and Tigger.

This has been a bizarre time. Our little Jack has been sick and he was in the hospital last night. So we're in the wait and see mode while we wait for future tests.

We had our big Halloween Celebration last week when we attended a Fall Festival. Ella still had a chance to trick or treat tonight. We'll post more when we learn what's going on with our little guy.

Fall Fun

2008-10-24T17:01:00.001-05:00

Jack's testing the pumpkin- this is the one!

Picking out the perfect pumpkin!

Jack riding on Dad's shoulders

Ella has her rodeo queen wave down!

We've been really busy with our University's day of service last week and we finally had some free time to pick out our pumpkins! Sunday evening we attended a Fall Festival at church and Ella rode a pony- it was great fun.

Life is good...

A few new pics

2008-10-21T20:50:00.000-05:00

I've not had time to post- but here are some new pics of the kids.

shoe strings, velcro and bunny ears

2008-09-03T21:00:00.000-05:00

So Ella has been learning to tie her shoes. It's been a big deal around our house. Ella started a new dance class and she has shiny new tap shoes- that have ribbon ties and she doesn't want to have to ask her new dance mates to help her with her shoes- so each night we practice. If you've never taught someone how to tie your shoes- you realize it's tougher than it may seem. We've watched videos on You tube and we've made bunny ears and I've cursed velcro over the last few days. But Ella is determined and she's being really patient with her mom- who happens to be left handed and Ella is right handed- WHO KNEW!?!?!? That was going to be an issue!?!?!? But this is one of those great milestones we wanted to share with our friends.

First day of school

2008-08-20T20:57:00.000-05:00

Ella started Kindergarten this week. She's been counting down the days for the last 5 weeks. She had her backpack packed days before and she was discussing what to wear all weekend. I was more nervous than she was of course. I was struck by the new rules- pre-k we walked them to class and picked them up from class- Kindergarten you leave them outside in the morning and they meet you at the "walker's door" in the afternoon. I wasn't prepared for all the newness of Kindergarten. But on the first day we were allowed to walk her to her class and help her get settled. When we arrived- parents were snapping pictures, following their students with video cameras into the school- it was actually pretty fun to see the buzz around her room as they entered. Ella turned to me at the door of her class- she gave me a peck of a kiss and turned around and left me in the hall. I wasn't leaving until I made sure she was all settled- I was amazed- the teacher basically ignored all the camera flashing and anxious parents and started giving the kids instructions and many of the children were following suit. Ella searched all the tables for her name- she glanced at her coloring page and she reached in grabbed a purple crayon and she got busy. Ella was well on her way to her first day of Kindergarten- and I snuck out while a few others were still clinging to their mommas' arms begging them not to leave.

For Grandma Sue

2008-07-26T15:40:00.000-05:00

Grandma Sue called this week and asked for an update so here you go! Jack is now walking from room to room and he can't get enough of his favorite game- ball toss. Actually it's toss anything he can get his hands on- Jack will find any toy nearby and start "tossing" to whoever is across from him. He can play toss for 30 minutes without getting distracted or bored. Jack's special school is closed for summer break -so he'll be home with Scott and Ella for 2 weeks. Scott is going to start working on the Wilbarger Protocol with Jack- which is a special brushing method that will help him with his constant need for stimulation. We're hoping to see some significant results from using this method.

Ella is doing very well- she is anxious for school to start. Last week she described in great detail the new backpack she wanted for school- purple with flowers. Two days later we found a lovely purple backpack with flowers- unbelievable!?! Well, it was right next to Tinkerbell- you can guess which one won out- she now has a lovely green, sparkly backpack with Tinkerbell on it! We are signing up for dance for the fall- her dance school has asked that Ella go up to the next class with 6-8 year old- in a combo class where she will learn ballet, tap and jazz! Mom is thrilled about the addition of tap shoes to her dance repertoire.

That's all we have to report! You need to come for a visit Grandma Sue!

Jack is walking!

2008-07-13T22:09:00.000-05:00

Our little guy is walking! Now he hasn't taken one step at school yet- but he's all over the map at home and it's a hoot. So here's some video for you to enjoy!

Changes...

2008-07-06T19:24:00.000-05:00

I started a new job last week- I'm now at the University working with students planning community service events. It should be great fun. We've had a nice quiet weekend- little man Jack is walking between chairs and it always has to be his idea! We are constantly cheering for him and I wish I had a picture to post but it's almost impossible to get a picture of the little guy in action. If I can get video of his toddle I'll post it soon.

Another big week

2008-06-22T16:37:00.001-05:00

Jack's new touch board

Me and Ella

This week was Ella's 5th birthday. It was a big day- time with YaYa and then a big party with loads of friends. It was a great day and we all left the party completely exhausted. Jack had tubes put in his ears the next day and that was a big deal too! We're hoping this will help our little guy with his language skills and his constant ear infections.

The next day Scott and I attended a special conference for parents of visually impaired children. It was a great conference and we learned so much. We learned that our little guy practices a lot of normal VI behavior. We got some great ideas for activities for him- for independent play. There's a picture of Jack playing with his new touch board that Ella and I made for him today!

Big week

2008-06-15T09:05:00.000-05:00

Scott and Ella in Branson

My Aunt B

We had a big week- we had to leave town for a family funeral. My Aunt B passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. We had a good time as a family together to remember her and celebrate her life. I was asked by our family to perform the service. It was an honor for me to have a chance to lead our family in such a time and to have time to reflect on her life. She was a beautiful woman with a sweet spirit and a great sense of humor. She loved her family and we will miss her- we already do...

Scott, Ella, Jack and I then headed north to Branson for a big reunion of families with children adopted from China. We met our buddies from Dallas for the event. It was great fun- the event was sponsored by the Shanghai Circus- it was a cultural event that allowed the children an opportunity to learn Chinese games and they prepared a traditional lunch and we had a private showing of the circus. The girls also had a chance to meet the acrobats. Our girls always have a great time together. It was a big weekend for Jack- his first road trip and his first dip in the pool! He loved the water! He also took 4 steps on his own! It was so fun to see him just take off on his own! We were thrilled.

The third girl- Tallulah

2008-06-08T22:15:00.000-05:00

18 months ago Tallulah joined the family- she was all of 4 lbs. and the prettiest little thing we'd ever seen. She was from a litter of pups that my cousin Annette's beagle had. We saw the pups when they were 2 days old. Annette picked Tallulah out for us- when she was just 3 weeks old. Tallulah confounds us with her chewing habit- of our favorite shoes, and she has something for mermaid dolls- two have bitten the dust. She bays like a beagle and she trees squirrels and she has presented at least one deceased squirrel to Scott as a gift. When she was just a little thing- she swiped some of my new yarn- and had the time of her life- decorating the backyard with red and orange yarn- wrapping tangled yarn around treeand s the storage building- it looked like our entire yard was a large colorful spider web. That had to be in the artist in her- right? She serves as a warmer on cold days and she allows Jack a boost when he wants to stand and needs something to hold on to. She's the cracker buster- cleaning the floor under Jack's booster. She put on 4 lbs his first 3 months home! She loves crackers. She is our precious third girl and we're happy to have her. We think she's pretty great- our wonder beagle.

More pics

2008-06-06T20:49:00.001-05:00

Ella's Graduation day from Pre-K

Jack's new quilt from Miss Jeanie

Ballet Recital

Holy Smokes how can he be any cuter?

Race for the Cure 2008

YaYa's 5th Anniversary of being cancer free!

Update: Home 6 months

2008-06-06T17:27:00.001-05:00

Life has been good- Jack's been home almost 6 months and he is doing well. He's getting so big! Ella graduated from pre-k and had a big ballet recital that was very exciting. We've battled our share of illnesses over the last 6 months. We've literally had an illness each month- from a parasite to chicken poxes to the flu! But we've seen so much progress with Jack it's been amazing. His baby babbling is getting more complex and he can stand on his own and he's taken a couple of steps. He's a big snuggler- he will interrupt his play and come and find us for a little snug. He's started a special day program where he receives his speech, physical and occupational therapy on site. He is in a class with other children with special needs. He's the only visually impaired child in the class. His receptive language is growing and he's very responsive when we ask him questions. He is a happy, happy baby with a sweet spirit. We are so pleased to be settling in with him.

Ella is a great big sister- she's a big helper and she is very gentle and sweet with him. It's been fun to watch her bond with him. She is a generous child- willing to share time with mom and dad. Her birthday is coming up later this month and she has been planning the social event of the year- her 5th birthday party!

So life is good and I've decided to start updating our blog again.

Time to say goodbye

2008-03-02T18:35:00.000-06:00

I wanted to say thanks to those of you who've contacted me and let me know you've read about our journey to our little guy Jack. But my time is so limited and I realize I just don't have a lot to say. So I'll be closing down 3 girls and a blind guy soon- thanks for sharing this amazing ride with us. We are so blessed.
Take care,
Angela

Leave is almost over...

2008-02-14T08:08:00.000-06:00

I've had a great time on family leave and it's winding down quickly. I've so enjoyed this time with Jack and I'm ready to get back to work. Jack will be attending a wonderful day care program. We've been spending time there each day this week so he can get to know the staff and the other children.

We created a ball pit for Jack to play in at home. And he loves it- and Ella loves it too. Our living room is looking more like a playroom everyday.

Happy Lunar New Year!- It's the year of the Rat!

2008-02-10T10:42:00.001-06:00

Living outside the box

2008-02-02T12:16:00.001-06:00

Our house is quite the obstacle course these days. We're working with Jack on sitting up and standing more often. The child likes to rock and lie on his back so I've created space in our living room to encourage him to sit and stand while playing with many of his toys. The challenge has been keeping toys close by because he is a "tosser"- toys go flying across the room because I think he enjoys the sound of toys falling to the floor. So I've attached the toys to his space so he can find them again. The thing I'm learning about raising and living with a child who is visually impaired is that it keeps you on your toes and always thinking about how to challenge him.

One thing I learned this week was related to language development. I sang the "name song" to Ella frome an early age- she would shout out a name or word and I would start "Ella, Ella bo-bella..." I read this week that non-sense rhyming doesn't help visually impaired children develop their language skills. So I've nipped singing the name song with Jack . Ella and I started working on the Old McDonald song but instead of animals we thought of sounds heard around our home. It was fun and Ella was so creative and thoughtful- thinking of things like doors, shoes and hands clapping. This journey is one that is going to make us all think outside the box!

Our little prince

2008-01-29T20:42:00.000-06:00

Jack is doing so well! He's been home just under 4 weeks and he now knows his name- he never responded to his Ethiopian name. If I call his name he'll sit up and listen out for me again- I'll walk up to him and he'll grab my legs and pull himself up. He's sleeping better and he will play with us more. And he snuggles with us a lot more! So good things are happening.

We had our "re-adopt" court date yesterday. Jack had on his styling green sweater from our friend Annie. When Ella saw him that morning in his cute sweater Ella exclaimed "Momma, Jack looks like a prince!" So here you go- a new pic of our Prince Jack!

Life is sweet

2008-01-15T18:25:00.000-06:00

Last night I walked into the living room and I heard Scott playing Claire De Lune on the piano and Ella was in her ballet dress dancing to the music. It was a lovely scene. It was a sweet moment. It was one of those moments that I realized this is my bliss- I love this life. So here are a few pics of our little ballerina.

New friends

2008-01-11T18:25:00.001-06:00

Tallulah loves Jack and Jack loves a big kiss from Tallulah. They are going to be good friends. We're learning with each passing day that Jack understands much of what we say- if we ask if he wants a bottle, he'll stop what he's doing and start making his way to us. I'll ask if he wants to play patty cake and he'll make his way to me and put his hands up to me to clap. Each day he's making new strides- it's quite fun.

Progress and the Press

2008-01-08T07:58:00.000-06:00

We're seeing progress in little man Jack- each day we see small gains. Last night I called him and he crawled to me and climbed in my lap. His skin is clearing up and he seems to feel better with each passing day. He has terrible two moments where he shares his opinion loudly! The boy is a screamer! But then he'll laugh and laugh and it makes us so happy to hear that little giggle.

This morning our local paper published a story about our adoption. If you'd like the read the article you by going here: http://www.nwanews.com/nwat/Editorial/60995/ . The writer Scott Shackelford came to our home before we left- he is such a nice guy and we enjoyed meeting him.

Today we're meeting with the early intervention team and we'll learn what steps we need to take next for our little guy.

Thanks for checking in...

Jack-Lag an update

2008-01-06T07:11:00.000-06:00

We've been home a week today. And we're doing well- Scott and I are not suffering from jet lag at all- but we are suffering from "Jack-Lag" the poor little guy is suffering from jet lag- his little body clock is all out of whack. He wakes up at 2 am and stays awake until about 8 am. Scott and I split up the shifts- we've been passing out each evening about 8 pm.

We went to the doctor this week and we received an assortment of ointments and creams for his skin. The doctor also thinks his ear drums may have burst some time ago- poor little guy his ears were completely packed. She also said his 2 yr. molars are coming in- so she thinks he could be a little older. He continues to be very active and we're working on attachment activities with him- I'm carrying him in the hip hammock some each day and we're doing lots of rocking and bottle feeding.

This week we start the re-adoption process with a local attorney and we're meeting with an early intervention team to evaluate him and begin that process.

Ella is doing really well- she has her jealous moments but she's a trooper and she's a huge helper.

More pics of Jack

2008-01-01T17:18:00.000-06:00

Jack is settling in nicely- except for his little body clock all is well. He's been waking up in the middle night for 4-5 hours- Scott and I've been splitting up the time. Little Jack has explored the house and he's having a great time with Tallulah. She's being so patient with him- while he crawls over her and tugs her ears. So here are some pics of day two at home with our little man. (the picture w/ Tallulah- he's making a motor boat sound with his lips- one of his favorite sounds.) He is a happy, happy boy.

Pics of Jack

2007-12-31T11:45:00.000-06:00

Here are few pictures of little man Jack. Little man is awake and making lots of sounds and discovering the house!

The one of Scott and Jack is when they first met- it was very sweet- I cried when I saw this one.

We're home!

2007-12-31T06:37:00.000-06:00

It's so good to be home- after over 28 hours traveling it's so good to have our feet on the ground. I think Ella grew an inch while we were gone- she already has the air of a big sister. Our family met us at the airport and Jack was still on Ethiopia time- so he was dead asleep until 10 pm and we was up until about 3:00 am. So the next week is going to be fun getting his littel body clock re-set. He was amazing on our flights- we made him a little nest in his seat with airline blankets and pillows and I made a rope out of Scott's old t-shirts and we tied toys to it- and tied it across his seat so he had toy to play with and if he threw a toy- it stayed put! I have to say both of our children were incredible on their trips home- we know how fortunate we are.

I have pictures I'll post soon- the eariler post was an email to my mom. We couldn't get to our blog- I tried- it was blocked. Thank you for all your sweet thoughts and prayers!

Lost luggage and our incredible son, Jack

2007-12-27T07:54:00.001-06:00

I have to say moving to the Hilton was the smartest move we've made- seriously we are so much happier and well rested. Jack has a fever today- I think he has an ear infection. We're going to see the doctor at the orphanage tomorrow. They sell antibiotics over the counter here?? We're spending some serious cash at the Hilton but I can't tell you how miserable we were at the Guest House- no water, no food, roaches and the smell was overwhelming- I felt I was going to throw up half the time. There is so much to tell and so little time to do it. We have a really nice man Yonahs who is driving us around- he took Scott to the airport this morning and we now have 2 sets of our luggage the box is gone. The third piece is to come in tomorrow- it has Jack's diapers and wipes in it.

I've never been so happy to see luggage in my life- I thought i was going to cry.

Our view from the Hilton is lovely- we're across the street from the Presidential Palace- that's why we have water! The view is of the mountains- the altitude doesn't make me sick anymore- the first two days were tough. But there are flowering trees that are purple and they are beautiful. The people are so kind- it's overwhelming sometimes. We have a conceirge Mojes (like Moses) who has been so good to us. They all saw us walk in yesterday in our dirty clothes, and two ziploc bags with clothes and they felt sorry for us- and they took care of us. One other thing that nearly ended me I bumped my head and nearly passed out before we arrived- I have a huge knot on my head. So that on top of being tired, altitude sickness barely eaten a thing, and dirty clothes- and then I conk my head on the van leaving the embassy.

Jack is a sweet boy- most of his mollescum is gone just a couple of spots- and one right on his tear duct. It looks like he may have had the chicken poxs- he has little pox scars all over his face. He is a big snuggler- he loves- loves Scott's whiskers- and he makes Scott mad because he tugs at them. He hates to be bathed and his nose wiped- man he can put up a fight.

I've decided his head on the floor move calms him- it's so funny- he gets upset and goes head on the floor butt in the air. He can clap and he claps all the time and makes lots of baby babble sounds. I'm doing lots of singing and telling him when I'm touching Jack's head, Jack's feet and Jack's belly. We have this one toy- a book that crinkles and if you crinkle it around his ears he just laughs out loud he's so happy.

This morning we saw a coffee ceremony- this young woman has this little charcoal grill that is clay and she has a pan on top- and she roast the raw beans- they go from white to the dark black color of the beans we buy- and the aroma is amazing. She then grinds them w/ a morta and pestle (spelling?). THen drops them in a pot that she cooks over the coals- she burns charcoal insense too so the smell is amazing- then she poured up tiny cups of coffee today. Yum The Ethiopians invented coffee and they were invaded by the Italians long ago so they can make a mean cappacino.

So we have a new lease on life- we have clean clothes, we have our meds, we now have toys. We're going shopping w/ Yonah's tomorrow for keepsakes. And then we're hosting a party at Opportunity House for the workers and children. We orderd a pastry basket from a pastry shop at the Hilton. We're also going to tour Layla house and one of the American staff members wants Scott to tour is computer lab he set up for the kids. Funny. We learn Jack is the first child from O house to be adopted so the ladies all cried when we left. Immanuel the deaf boy I was excited to meet- has a new family too. He is a sweet, sweet boy.

Okay here's the scoop

2007-12-22T15:48:00.000-06:00

So it looks like we're not taking our laptop with us. After much consideration it looks like we won't have enough Internet access to even to do email. I don't think I've gone without email for 7 days in the last decade! So we probably won't be posting- my mom might do an update for us. If you want to email us we'll try to check a gmail account: triptoafrica@gmail.com. If we can check it we'll appreciate your messages. We couldn't change our accommodations so it looks like we'll be in the guest house for the week- no American Hotels for us. Oh well! It's all going to be okay- pray for smooth travel and no delays!

Santa came last night- it was so fun. Ella had a great time. We love you all- take care and we'll be in touch soon!

Take care and Merry Christmas!

less than 48 hours and counting

2007-12-21T14:36:00.000-06:00

So we're leaving in less than 48 hours and I've already had one major meltdown- the one with the ugly cry...it came after learning the water is off- not just often but quite often at most establishments in Ethiopia and it's too late to reserve a room at a fancy American hotel like the Hilton, oh and the internet rarely works and one more thing yahoo mail doesn't work most of the time!?!?!? I said some choice words and tried to get into my mantra- "pack your patience Angela, pack your patience". My sobbing cry did help me a bit but it just helped in my resolve to remind myself I can do anything- yes ANYTHING for 7 days. So we're going to ask my Mom to help us post to our blog- we probably won't be able to respond to your emails- but send us lots of good mojo, prayers, do dances- whatever it is you do to stir up the spirits and Lords of all that is good and right in the world to lend us a hand. So take care and we'll be in touch. When you hear "Do they know it's Christmas time at all?" Think of us!?!? We'll let you know!
much love to all-
Angela, Scott and Ella Fei- waiting on the boy wonder Jackson Parrish Bedhasa!

Holy Smokes! We've got a 24 pounder!

2007-12-17T17:34:00.000-06:00

We are in the throws of packing- it's nuts. There are Ziploc bags everywhere! I'm completely overwhelmed and Scott is his cool as a cucumber self. It's completely irritating to me and it's also why he's my rock. So today we learned Jack is a whopping 24 lbs!! He's a BIG BOY and he's 30 inches long- I think Ella may have broken the 32 inch mark when she was 3 yrs. old.

Well we're beyond excited and anxious- we can't believe this is all falling into place. We appreciate all your kind words and messages. We leave December 23rd and we'll be meeting Jack on Christmas day- what a gift!

Preparing for an early Christmas

2007-12-09T17:12:00.000-06:00

We're frantically preparing for our trip and celebrating Christmas early with Ella and our family. So we're shopping like crazy and packing every chance I get. Santa's coming to our house early. Last week Ella and I spent the afternoon with our friend Dannie, the writer. We took him a Christmas tree and decorations. Ella picked everything out- it was quite fun. Saturday we baked Christmas cookies with my mom- we were up to our elbows in sugar dough and frosting! Today we went to see a play- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Next week we're seeing Peter Pan! And Scott is in the middle of finals- WHEW!!! We've got a lot going on- but we're having the time of our lives- enjoying our time together and anxious to meet sweet little Jack.

Christmas in Africa

2007-12-03T16:59:00.000-06:00

So we just found out we're spending Christmas in Africa! Our embassy appointment is December 26th. Everything is now moving so fast- we're booking our airline tickets, reserving rooms, getting shots, packing....We'll be celebrating the new year with our son here at home with black eyed peas and collards!!! Woohooo!

WE PASSED!!!

2007-12-01T11:19:00.001-06:00

Jackson Parrish Bedhasa is our son! We'll find out tomorrow when our embassy date is- but it's usually 20-30 days from passing court. I'm so happy- I can't believe it!?!

less than 72 hours...

2007-11-27T20:03:00.000-06:00

Our court date is Friday November 30th- at 8 am on Friday CST it will be 5:00 pm in Ethiopia so things will be wrapped up and we should learn that day if we've passed court. We know that a number of families have more than one court date and don't often pass the first round- but we're hoping that the first time will be the charm for our little family. A year ago I had a dream that wouldn't leave me- I dreamed that we became the parents of a dark haired, dark eyed little boy- in my dream he had on blue overalls and he was all snuggly. The next morning I told Scott about my dream and how real it was and how the little baby boy seemed so real as he snuggled up close to me. A few weeks later- the first week of December we traveled to see my dear cousin Melinda and her family. When we arrived at her home- the first thing she said to me was that she just dreamed that we adopted a little boy- who had dark hair and dark eyes. I told her- she wasn't going to believe it- but I had the same dream. We were both awed by our dream and wondered what it meant. The dark eyed, dark haired boy didn't leave me- and the first time I saw little Bedhasa's face- I thought of the baby from my dream. And tonight as we prepare to end our day- we're keeping that dark haired, dark eyed boy close to our hearts, hoping beyond hope that Friday- the good people of Ethiopia will see fit that Bedhasa will be ours- forever.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T08:22:00.001-06:00

We're celebrating Thanksgiving with local friends and family today. It's a big day! We have a new picture of Bedhasa from earlier this month and we're thankful for this little guy and we can't wait to have him home with us. So today he is close to our thoughts and prayers. We're hoping today that he is well cared for and loved by his caregivers at Opportunity House. He is much anticipated in our hearts and lives. We wish you a Happy Thanksgving today too.

No Couch Potato Here!

2007-11-17T10:29:00.000-06:00

I love 4! Ella is almost 4 and a half and she is in the midst of this sweet time where she loves princesses and all things sparkly and beautiful. And she loves the Disney Princesses which is a marketing animal. Ella doesn't just "watch" her princess movies, she acts out each scene. As you can see from the picture- Cinderella just lost her slipper. I was walking through the house and found the slipper in the hall and realized what scene she was currently acting out! Scott and I are often asked to pause the movie so she can do costume changes- especially when Ariel is no longer a mermaid and she suddenly has legs. So our Little Princess- isn't whiling away the hours watching movies- she's swimming through the dining room, and running down the hall to beat before the clock strikes midnight! What a fun time- and again- I love 4!

We have a court date!

2007-11-07T15:40:00.000-06:00

We learned this week that on November 30th our petition to adopt Jackson Parrish Bedhasa should be heard in Ethiopian Courts- and we'll learn if we pass court on that day. We know that we may be delayed but we also now have a date to look forward to! So sweet Bedhasa is just weeks away from being our son officially! We'll keep folks updated on our travel plans to bring him home!

Christmas in Ethiopia

If you'd like to learn how to make the holidays special for a little one in Adoption Advocate International's care please follow the link below! A $20 donation will give a child a gift bag, a traditional Ethiopian outfit and special treats. Give to the "The Holiday Project".

https://npo.networkforgood.org/AdoptionAdvocates/Default.aspx

Meow, kitty

2007-11-02T18:16:00.001-05:00

Ella scored big trick or treating this year. She had a two costume holiday - she was a pink kitty for a Halloween party and then she was the Little Mermaid for trick or treating. I loved the pink kitty- because of her fluffy pink boa tail.

Trip to the Big "D"

2007-10-22T18:18:00.001-05:00

This weekend we made our semi-annual trip to Dallas to see Libby! Libby is Ella's friend from China- they were in the orphanage together and we see Libby's family twice a year so the girls can remain close. It's a 4 yr old girl's gone wild weekend- every visit. This trip we went to a petting zoo and the girls caught chickens and milked cows and petted every farm animal known to man. It was a fun time for the girls. It's sweet to see our girls grow to be friends.

Our site name

2007-10-15T20:36:00.000-05:00

The minute I met Scott I thought he was the funniest guy- he makes me laugh. And he's not afraid to laugh at himself. I love that about him. When we decided to do a website- Scott said "How about we call it 3 girls and a blind guy?" Well it made me laugh out loud- our three girls are Ella, Tallulah the super beagle and myself. He of course he is the blind guy. When we decided to adopt our little guy Bedhasa- Scott said "We've got to change the name now to 3 girls and 2 blind guys. The blind thing is something we live with everyday in our home. We keep stuff off the floor, I try not to rearrange linen closets anymore without warning and I always threaten Scott "Don't make me mad or I'll hide the remote!" We're now knee deep into reading books on raising a child who is visually impaired. We're excited about adding Bedhasa to our family- we know we have tons of resources here locally- and Scott is going to continue to be seriously the world's greatest dad- and Bedhasa- is going to learn to laugh! This is going to be quite a ride!

Our new blog

2007-10-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

We started our original blog on our personal website at http://www.3girlsandablindguy.com/ and you can still go to our site and check out our journey to adopt our daughter Ella or learn how you can help support adoption in Ethiopia.

We believe we are about two months from bringing home our little guy Bedhasa from Ethiopia. Bedhasa is currently 17 months old and he is visually impaired. Ella's class is learning about the "Senses" so she is taking braille magnet alphabet letters, a children's book in braille and pictures of Bedhasa. We took out my grandmother's mobility cane tonight and we showed her how Bedhasa will have to use a cane to find his way around our home and other places.

We're very excited about our little guy!