Seeing The Up Side Of Down

Christmas 2011 in Pictures

2012-01-14T17:29:00.000-08:00

The Yellow Butterfly

2011-12-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

This will be the first Christmas without my dad.

My sisters, my mom and I have all been experiencing a range of emotions these past few weeks as we lead up to a holiday where we not only celebrate Christ's birth, but also cherish many memories of times with our family.

My Dad liked to keep the focus on Jesus at Christmas, but he did buy each of us 4 girls a gift just from him. I can't remember each and every one but it was usually a practical gift like an alarm clock or a tool set but it was obvious he had put some time and thought into picking out just the right gift.

The emotions of missing someone who is no longer here to celebrate holidays or just live everyday life with, are at times overpowering and unpredictable. Such was the case today when my mom and I took Nadia and the dogs for a walk.

It is still warm for December 23rd, but certainly not the time of year to expect to see a butterfly flying around. Sure enough, there it was, gracefully flying around ahead of us...a beautiful yellow butterfly.

I pointed it out to my mom and then I burst into tears. My dad's favorite color is yellow, so when I saw that butterfly I KNEW that God sent this butterfly as a thoughtful gift to remind us that while we may not have our dad here in person this year, we still have the many memories of Christmases with him as well as the other times spent together as a family.

These bittersweet moments are to be expected as we walk down the path of grief, and even though seeing that butterfly brought out a lot of emotions that had been simmering under the surface, I am thankful that we serve a God who is willing to take the time to send a sign to remind us how much He cares. He loves us more than we will ever begin to imagine.

Some will say that the yellow butterfly was just a coincidence, but I know in my heart that the God who could part the Red Sea and feed the 5,000 with just a few fish and some bread, can most certainly send a butterfly to spiritually "hug" those who are hurting.

We miss you so very much Dad!

It just won't be the same without you.

For all of you who are also spending your first Christmas missing a loved one, our prayers are with you!

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3,4

The Birthday Girl(s)

2011-12-13T09:58:00.000-08:00

The evening before Nadia's birthday I spent time rocking her and looking into her sweet little face. I was overcome with emotion as I thought of her birth mother thousands of miles away, undoubtedly experiencing a range of emotions as she too remembers that Nadia will be turning 4 on Dec. 7th.

I prayed for her and asked God that He would give her a peace and a knowing that her precious daughter is being lovingly cared for. I hope that she somehow knows that Nadia has indeed been adopted and will not be 'celebrating' her 4th birthday by being transferred to a mental institution, as I'm sure her birth mother knows well this inevitable step for orphans with special needs in her country.

As you look at the pictures of how Nadia got to celebrate her birthday with her forever family, will you please join me in praying for the millions of orphans who have yet to know the kind of love only a family can bring. And especially pray for those 4yr. old orphans in Nadia's home country who, without being adopted, will face transfer to a place where NO CHILD should ever have to experience. Then take an extra moment to ponder how God might use you to remedy this ongoing travesty.

Thank you.

Nadia's been climbing out of her crib these days so when I returned home from the gym, this is where I found Nadia beginning her birthday...on the couch with her big sister!

When you ask Nadia how old she is, she tries her best to get the right number of fingers up, but still needs a little help.

Excited and ready to start her day! (Actually, her expression has nothing to do with it being her birthday...she just noticed Daddy coming down the steps! Too sweet!)

And this is Daddy's reward for picking up the birthday girl!

Girlfriend's rockin' it out with her birthday dress and new pink boots!!!

Time to get on the bus!

Strapped in and ready to go.

A surprise visit from Nonna with a yummy birthday cookie to share with her school friends!

Josi joins in the fun at Nadia's preschool.

The birthday girls. (Mine is the day after so now we get to 'share' our celebrations.)

A little birthday hat 'signed' by all her school friends.

Time to prepare the birthday dinner!

Nonna and Allen are making Italian meatballs...yummy!

Michael helped Nonna make this incredible chocolate cake!

Flowers from hubby for the older birthday girl.

Josi supervising and wondering what's taking so long!

It was a wonderful dinner and a great way to celebrate our 4yr. old's big day!!!

I just had to put Nadia's referral picture in here so you could see what we get to see on a daily basis...

...the AMAZING difference having a family can make!

We love you Nadia Irina Ferguson!!!

YOU GO GIRL!

2011-11-12T17:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my friend Jenn and I drove up to VA to have one last park date with Adeye and her children before they move across the country. (insert weeping and gnashing of teeth here-sniff sniff)

I met Adeye in blogland but have also been privileged to spend some face-to-face time with her and her family a few times over the past 2yrs.

Adeye and her husband Anthony have 7 children, 4 of whom are adopted. Each adpoted child has her own unique story, but the one that has truly touched my heart is Hailee's. Any child who is forced to spend even one day in an orphanage can't be considered to have had a 'good start' in life, but there are some who have truly horrendous orphanage experiences and Hailee is one of those sweet babies.

She came home as a 5yr. old weighing only 15 1/2 pounds. But what she lacked in size she made up for in spunk and an innate survival instinct.

Our first park get together was July of last year and all 3 girls just kind of hung out on the blanket together. Even then it was evident that Hailee was going to make sure her younger sister knew who was the oldest even if she wasn't the biggest.

Yes, ma'am, this girl wasn't going to let someone with a few extra pounds push her around.

However, my (ahem) sweet daughter made sure that Hailee knew that she was definitely going to use her size to her advantage.

In my sweet ~~bully~~ daughter's defense, she was probably just trying to hug Hailee. I'm sure it had nothing to do with her trying to steal Hailee's drink or pull her hair or anything like that.

Ok, so there is some pictorial evidence to the contrary showing that Nadia doesn't always mean well, but I really think that even in this situation she was just showing Milana how much she adores her with a nice (albeit painful) "love squeeze".

Ahh...but I digress. Back to Hailee my Hero!

I was so excited to see her and her family yesterday and to see the wonderful progress she's made since our last visit. I could tell she had gotten much stronger and still possessed that same spunk and survival instinct that has helped her get this far in life.

But I still wasn't prepared for sista to "bust-a-move" the way she did. Thankfully, I caught it all with my camera in the following sequence of pictures.

It started out all pink and innocent and cute as Jenn broke out the crackers for the 4 little ones.

In fact it wasn't until I moved Harper up next to her sister that all "you know what" broke loose.

I can just hear Hailee's thoughts..."Oh no you don't, Harper, these crackers are mine!"

So, doing what any sister would do when faced with competition , Hailee pushed her down to leave her with only 2 opponents for the food.

Being next in the line of fire, Nadia gets a dose of karma with a good hair-pulling from Hailee.

(Notice Harper's unwillingness to jump in and help out--I'm totally cracking up at this point which I'm sure makes me a terrible mom but the irony of this scene was tickling my funny bone.)

What comes around goes around they say.

This really played out faster than it seems, and even amidst my laughter, I am just about ready to intervene...you believe me right?

Pinned! You win Hailee. You can have Nadia's crackers.

"Oh no she did not just reach her hand out for MY share of the crackers."

(Bad move Milana....Really. Bad. Move.)

Told ya.

Hailee is the full package. She's as sweet and cuddly and pretty in pink as she can be...

...and tough as nails when needed. She had to be or she wouldn't be here today. I thank God that he gave this girl the fighting spirit that she has and that he moved in the lives of Adeye and Anthony to bring this little one into their family where she can truly reach her full, God-given potential!

YOU GO GIRL!!!

(Post Disclaimer: No children were harmed in this photo shoot and no sticks were ingested...just some leaves and grass by Nadia...as usual...)

Great Pro-Life Article on Steve Jobs being ADOPTED

2011-10-31T06:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/10/30/adoption-and-secret-steve-jobs-success/

Birthday Rewind

2011-10-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

In an effort to catch up a little on my blogging, I had to go back a few weeks to when we celebrated Allen's 15th birthday.

Michael decided to dress up for the occasion as we feasted on some of Allen's favorites. Allen is one of those kids who stopped ordering off the children's menu when he was 2! He has a very sophisticated palate but it's fun cooking for him because he likes so many things.

Josi hams it up during present opening time.

Dad picked out a new lake toy for Allen that I think he's secretly hoping to use as well.

Oh how I love this boy!

(No judging my cracked cheesecake or the fact that I had to use candles in the combination of 14 + 1 to celebrate 15! My Martha Stewart days are so a thing of the past. ha ha)

Then it was time for the teenage boy birthday party which mainly consists of the following:

1) Hanging out...in the kitchen of course!

2) Playing computer and video games simultaneously.

3) Watching some football and being silly.

4) And of course doing what teenage boys do best--EAT--and I mean EAT!!!

It's hard for me to fathom that the little boy who would cling to me in any social setting is now

DRIVING,

tearing it up on the soccer field for his varsity school team,

refereeing for the younger kids' soccer games,

and just turning out to be a young man that I really enjoy being around!

Oh yes, and I think he's pretty handsome too! :)

And in case you were wondering where little Missie Moo was hiding during all of the birthday photos...well, um, you see,uh... she was unavailable for photos because um...

She was on a field trip! Yeah! That's it!

More photos from that fun day in a future blog post!

Oh Yes It Is...

2011-09-23T07:55:00.000-07:00

THE FIRST DAY OF FALL!!!

And we're pretty EXCITED about that!

(This is Nadia's, "Hey Mom, I'm home from school" dissheveled look.)

No Fall pictures yet since it's still humid and rather warm here in NC, but I'm getting out the decorations this weekend and may even bake a few loaves of pumpkin bread to kick off the most wonderful time of the year!

What will you be doing to usher in the official beginning of Autumn???

No More Preschool Pen For Me

2011-09-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day of preschool which means that I'll be doing school just like Allen, Josi, and Michael this year! Don't get me wrong, being at home and hanging out with my brothers and sister was a lot of fun, but I'm excited about being with kids my own age and learning all of that cool preschool stuff!

Here I am yesterday when my mom took me to see my classroom and to meet my teachers.

I got to play with my teachers and check out some of the really fun toys they have.

I'm used to being hugged a lot at home so I'm glad my teachers like to hug too!

Another cool toy that my teacher helped me figure out how to make work.

I guess they're not going to allow me to pull hair here either. Bummer.

Here's where I get to hang my backpack!

And guess what? My hook is right next to Milana's ! My mom took some pictures of us together but I think she's saving those for another post.

Back to today...my first real day of preschool.

Ready or not, here I come!!!

Hmmm...not sure what Mommy put in this backpack but it feels like a ton of bricks!

I mean look at this thing! It's as big as I am. What's up with that???

I think I'll just take a load off until the 'bus' gets here. And just in case they don't give us snacks at this school, I think I'll munch on this leaf for some extra sustenance.

The 'bus' is here! I get to sit next to Milana but we have to pick her up next.

This isn't the same as my carseat but I'm game to try something new.

Umm...Mommy, you might want to stop taking pictures and help this nice lady with the strap thingies or we may never get to my new school.

Mommy, are you crying? It's ok...really. I'm going to see you very soon and I promise I'll have lots of fun and take good notes about what I've done all day.

Ok, so bye-bye for now. I might catch a little snooze on the way to school if that's ok.

And don't worry, Mommy. I'll be waiting eagerly to see you at the end of my school day.

First Day of School-2011

2011-08-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago we sent our eldest off to kindergarten. We had 3 children ages 5 and under and were undergoing a major renovation while living in the house! It was difficult letting him go and I missed him terribly but we knew this was the best plan for our family.

However, throughout the course of that first school year, God used many circumstances and people to slowly point us toward homeschooling. I say slowly because it took awhile for me to see that this was truly His plan for us. (Truth be told, whenever the topic came up I pretty much told God, "Ummm...no way, thank you very much!") We ended up taking the plunge and have homeschooled all of our children for the last 9yrs.

(Here is our little kindergartner!)

Ten years later and still trusting in God's plan for each of our children's schooling, we sent our eldest off this morning to 10th grade at the same Christian school he went to for kindergarten!

(My, how he's grown!)

One of the really cool details of this transition is that not only does Allen have a bunch of soccer buddies who go to his school, but his cousin does too!

(I still say they could pass for twins!)

Meanwhile, back at the Ferguson Homeschool, two eager students are waiting to begin their first school day as well!

OK, so mostly they're eager for the traditional doughnut breakfast that accompanies the first day of school around here!

This one would eat doughnuts all day long if he lived by himself. :)

So this was a total surprise to me...guess who doesn't like doughnuts???

I mean she REALLY didn't like her doughnut! How is that even possible? It boggles the mind!!!

Oh well...that's one more for the teacher!

My favorite place to start the school day...out on the porch in what turned out to be a surprisingly cool morning!

Little missie got over her doughnut meltdown and settled in for devotions.

Anyone who has children at school or in homeschool knows there's no better way to start the day than with prayer!

Josi is our prayer warrior and will remember other's prayer requests better than anyone.

Time to hit the books! Josi dove into her spelling with a fervor that I hope lasts all year long!

(Yes, I'm experiencing a hallucinogenic sugar high from that extra doughnut!)

Another excited pupil beginning his new Math book.

"Oy Vey! Is it that time of year again???

Not the preschool pen!!!"

"Guess I'd better make the best of it or she might try to make me eat another one of those nasty fried things filled with creme and topped with chocolate. Yuck-o!"

"See? I'm learning too! I know that brown bear sees a red bird and that the red bird sees a yellow duck!"

"I'm totally done with this pen thing now. Just put me in for a nap!"

I'm still waiting to hear how Allen's day went. It's amazing how I can still miss him like I did ten years ago, but rest in complete faith in our Heavenly Father who hasn't taken his eyes off of him a moment of his life. :)

Please Consider Helping a Friend

2011-08-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

When we adopted Nadia a year ago, one of the many blessings was meeting a family who lives just up the road from us who was also adopting a little girl with Ds from the same country. How cool is that?!

This same family is now hoping to adopt again and has begun the daunting task of fundraising for said adoption. They are starting out with a really cool Ipad2 Giveaway!!! So not only do you get a chance to participate in helping an orphan become a member of a great family, you might also win a new 'toy'. hee hee

Below is Jenn's original post with the details about how to donate and get entered in the drawing. ***Please note that the end date has been changed to Aug. 4th so hurry now and get your donation registered for a chance to win the Ipad2!

Thursday, July 7, 2011

IPAD2 Give away

Well...we are back at it again. We are working on raising money for another adoption of a child with Down Syndome. This time we are doing things a little differently. First, we are looking at a different country in Eastern Europe. So the way adoptions are done are quite different.

In order to move forward we need to have a portion of our program fee as well as a portion of our adoption agency fee. Once we have this money we are able to send it in and documents go to the child's country to "hold" him for us. Where as when we adopted Milana there was a chance when we got there she would not be.

Ok...so on with the giveaway. We are doing an IPAD2 + WiFi Giveway. Our goal is to raise at least $5,000. This will help with the initial costs of our adoption. If we reach the $500 mark the winner will receive the IPAD2 + WiFi. Should we not earn enough money to cover the cost of the IPAD and the shipping and handling we will split the proceeds 50/50 with the winnner.

Donations are NOT tax deductible. Money donated will be going directly into our paypal account.

Here is the breakdown for donations:

$10 = 1 entry

$20 = 4 entries

$50 = 10 entries

$100 = 25 entries

You can also be entered by posting on your blog, facebook, and/or twitter accounts. To receive an entry by doing this just leave a comment on my blog and state your name and where you posted the information.

Donations can be made through the chip in on the left of my blog. It says IPAD Give away. Good luck and Thank you :)

Please follow this link to Jenn's blog to donate: http://jennandchrisandkpr.blogspot.com/

Thank you for helping out with this worthy cause!!!

Chillin' With The Cousins

2011-07-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my sister and her 3 kids made the drive to spend the day with us at the shore.

It was so nice for the kids to be able to hang out all day and I enjoyed some beach 'talk time' with my sister!

Getting ready to go boogie-boarding.

Heading out to look for the perfect wave.

Meanwhile the girls were hard at work digging a pool to wade in.

Both girls were very determined to make their pool just right.

Of course there's always time for fooling around too. :)

Um...somehow the boys are reaping the benefit of all of the girls' hard work.

Enjoying some laughs with each other.

Marin is still hard at work...no rest for this girl!

No better way to cap off a day at the beach than to have Mack and Manco pizza on the boardwalk.

Our waiter decided he needed to be in this picture as well.

Nadia's wondering why the pizza isn't here yet. At least give the girl a sand patty appetizer or something. :)

Nonna enjoyed the day with 7 out of her 10 grandchildren.

This was definitely a fun, flip-flop, laid-back kind of day.

Thanks again Nicole for making the trek so we could have a fun cousin day!

Surf and Turf

2011-07-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

Being so close to the ocean gives us all a hankering for some good seafood!

We usually try to catch some the old fashioned way.

We haven't had much luck so far this trip but 3 yrs. ago when we were here the kids were pulling in baby sharks with almost every cast!

Nonetheless, it's a great father-son(s) outing and a wonderful way to honor and remember both of our kids' fishing grandpas.

Meanwhile, our little one has decided that the turf part of 'surf and turf' is more up her alley.

Yup, that's her shoveling it in 2 handfuls at a time!

Yummy...NOT!

(The big kids are really grossed out by Nadia's choice of beach entree).

The eating the sand part doesn't seem to bother her. It's only when Mommy fusses at her and takes her down to the ocean to wash her off that she gets upset...go figure.

I really think she'd continue to double-fist it into her mouth if I'd let her...but I didn't in case you're wondering.

Now for some real 'surf and turf', Ocean City style! We celebrated Jim's birthday with dinner out and we all had assorted seafood dishes that definitely satisified that aforementioned hankering.

Happy Birthday Honey! We love you!

As for me, nothing says Ocean City, NJ more than a 28oz. container of Johnson's World Famous Caramel Corn that I may OR may NOT share with the others!

Greetings from Ocean City, NJ

2011-07-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

We are having a great time in sunny New Jersey...my old stomping grounds.

The crowded beaches...

...the boardwalk with all of my favorite treats like chocolate covered salt water paddles and the world's best caramel corn. So many wonderful memories of growing up going 'to the shore'!

Thanks to friends of my parents, we are able to spend a week here allowing our children to get a taste of some of my Northern heritage.

We're enjoying hanging out on the beach,

drying off after catching a few waves,

digging holes and then...

...sitting in them,

strolling on the beach at dusk,

keeping little one out of the water (at dusk) so she doesn't end up as shark food,

contemplating surfing,

but mostly just being thankful for this time away with family, and of course, wishing my Dad was here with us.

More to come...

Talk to the Hand!

2011-07-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

I thought that was a good caption for this photo!

But what I really need is some advice about said hands. Nadia is pinching up a storm lately with those chubby little hands. She's also pulling hair and is as fast as lightning and then won't let go, rendering even my sweet, long-haired niece, helpless in her clutches.

We have tried many approaches from distracting her to pinching her and/or pulling her hair back. Nothing seems to be working. I realize this may just be yet another phase that will work itself out (like the head-banging, hitting herself, pulling her own hair, etc.) but I thought it wouldn't hurt to see if any of you have been through this and can offer a novel solution!

Thanks!

Fun Foto Friday

2011-07-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Any Caption Ideas?

The Countdown Begins...

2011-07-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

Guess What Y'all????

Only 74 Days Until Fall!!!

I'm not complaining...Just stating a fact!

****I've had a terrible time trying to post comments on my favorite blogs so please know I'm reading them. Now I can't even comment on my own blog. So, to answer Sophie's question--no I did not make the hat and glove set Nadia is wearing--have to give credit to theTarget end-of-year clearance sale for that. And Jenn, tell Chris that one of the things that makes Fall my favorite time of year is College Football, of course!

What We've Been Up To Lately

2011-07-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

In these past two weeks we have been doing the "Summer Thing". Along with enjoying the longer, more carefree days, we've also sent our eldest off to Canada for a missions trip. (His Grandpop would have been so proud as his heart was all about reaching the lost).

So, we loaded Allen up with some good family friends in their rented RV. Destination: Ontario, Canada.

Their mission is to teach the kids soccer as part of an all-day VBS/Soccer Camp and share the gospel in their small groups.

Allen has a group of 13-7yr. olds and is experiencing many opportunities to minister to children who need extra love to break through a somewhat hard outer shell. Some are from the First Nation's Reservation, some from the women's shelter,and others are from foster care. We are so thrilled he has this opportunity to be God's hands and feet to these precious children.

On the home front, Josi got a new pair of glasses. After gluing and re-gluing her other pair together over 10 times, we decided it was time for a new pair. Isn't she a beauty? Very chic!

We celebrated the Fourth of July with some sparklers.

'Smoke Man'

We also got to see a wonderful fireworks display at our local State Fairgrounds. There was a time, not too long ago, that we had to skip the fireworks because they were way too loud for Josi. However, she was sitting there clapping and oooing and ahhhing with the rest of us! Nadia loved them too.

Other than that, we're mostly trying to stay cool!

We met our friend Lisa with daughters Kate and Olivia at the local spray park/pool for some refreshing fun.

See? There's Lisa and Olivia in the background. Not sure where Kate was at this moment.

And of course there's always just watching little missie being awfully cute!

And Silly.

And Flexible...

And just overall whacky!

(Which makes her a perfect fit for our family!!!)

Hope you all are enjoying whatever it is you've been up to lately!

Fun Foto Friday

2011-06-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

(And yes, Jodi, I know Photo is spelled incorrectly but this is called "alliteration".)

Anyway, I found Nadia 'napping' like this today and thought it was too hilarious to pass up.

Care to come up with a caption for any or all of these pictures? I'd love to read them!!!

Hope you all have a terrific weekend!!!

A Father's Day Encouragement

2011-06-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

All week long I thought Father’s Day wouldn’t ‘bother’ me because I’m rarely up in PA to celebrate this occasion. However, yesterday that feeling of loss started to come over me and this morning it hit me full force. No card to send. No phone call to make. I felt that pit in my stomach as I woke up feeling obligated to face this day.

Instead of today being a day to celebrate, it was a reminder of how much I am missing having my father in my life and in the life of my children. Thankfully the older ones have solidified memories of time spent with Grandpop but oh how my heart aches for this little one who had just one short year with him.

And boy did he love this little girl.

It had been awhile since he had to play "Hop on Pop" with his own children and even with the grandchildren, as the youngest before Nadia is now 6. He was still willing to give Nadia "all of Grandpop" like the others got.

Yes, this little one got a glimpse into what it was like to have a Grandpop even if just for a short while.

.

God knew this was going to be a difficult day for me and my sisters, so just as God would have it, my devotion for today, from the book Jesus Lives by Sarah Young was a huge encouragement to me. It made me think about others who are having a difficult time today. Perhaps your father has also passed away suddenly or after a long illness. Perhaps he is still alive but no longer a part of your life. God will meet you where your pain is and so I hope that the following devotional will minister to you the way it has to me and my sisters today.

THE FUTURE
I can fit everything into My majestic plan for good, including the things you wish were different. How you long to see that all-embracing pattern, even though you can’t begin to imagine it—and wouldn’t understand it even if I showed you.

Your current situation feels like a gigantic mistake to you—something you should have been able to prevent. I urge you not to indulge in obsessing about what you could have done differently, for that is an exercise in unreality: The past cannot be different from what has actually occurred. I want to help you make a new beginning instead, starting right where you are.

NOW is the only place to begin anew: It’s the unique intersection of time and space you currently inhabit, and it’s the space-time location where I intend for you to live. Some things—many things—may be beyond you, but you are capable of living joyfully in the present. After all, you are communicating with Me, your Savior and Lord, this very moment. You can also handle the next moment as it comes—and the next.

What you find most difficult to accept is the way the future looks to you: basing your predictions on current circumstances. But the future is one of those secret things beyond your domain. Release it to Me, the rightful Owner. Refuse to worry about the future, and you will find your resources for today quite sufficient. Remember that I am part of those resources, and nothing is impossible with Me!"

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. Romans 8:28 AMP

The secret things belong unto the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow the words of this law. Deuteronomy 29:29

For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37

My sister took this picture at Nadia's Dedication last October. I always thought it looked like a picture of my parents looking heavenward. .

I know my Dad has a different view right now but for those of us here on earth it is still a difficult day.

Nadia's 1yr. Anniversary--Gotcha Baby!!!

2011-06-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I'm at a loss for words as I reflect upon last year at this time. So instead, I decided to create a video to commemorate this special day in the life of our family...the day we added Nadia Irina Ferguson to our family through the miracle of adoption.

This Is Home!

We love you Nadia and we can't imagine our lives without you in it! We're thankful that one year ago God allowed us a glimpse into how He adopts us into His family through opening our hearts to bring you into ours. What a miracle to behold! We will never forget that day or the journey to bring you home!!!

P.S. The actual date is tomorrow but I couldn't wait! Last year on this day, Thursday, Nadia became officially ours. Come to think of it, if I'm going by Ukrainian time, it already is June 17th! There, now I feel better about posting this a little 'early'. :)

P.P.S. If you want to watch this video full screen you can click on this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WHG6nw-33Q

Homeschooling a Child with Ds

2011-06-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

My wonderful friend Adeye is doing a series on her blog answering people's questions about raising children with Ds. One of the questions pertained to homeschooling and since her girls with Ds, Hailee and Harper, are younger, she asked me to field that particular question. She has posted my reply on her blog but I wanted to put it here as well in case there were any follow-up questions you might want to post in my comment section for me to answer.

I don't pretend to have all the answers and some days I wonder if I know anything at all about schooling a special needs child, BUT, I do have quite a few years under my belt with which to glean from. So, here you go:
When Josi entered the school system at age 3, we were fortunate to have a developmental preschool placement at a church that was made up of the special needs school kids and typically developing children as well. This was a wonderful situation for Josi since she’s very social and loves being around people. She received all of her therapies in this setting for 2yrs. and made great progress socially and developmentally.

When it came time to transition to kindergarten at our neighborhood public school, we just assumed she’d flourish like she had the past 2 years. I was currently homeschooling our older son but we didn’t feel like God was leading us to homeschool Josi at this point.

Not much turned out the way we had hoped that year and by the time our year-end IEP meeting took place, we knew that God was giving CLEAR signs that Josi needed to be homeschooled. She had various behavior issues that year (like pushing and hitting) and overall didn’t seem to be learning and thriving like she had in preschool. I kidded with my husband that now that she’s at home at least I’ll know who and why she’s hitting and pushing (who: her 2 brothers, why: because they can be pests). hahaha I never was given satisfactory explanations for any of the academic or social situations the teachers wrote home about. Needless to say it was a frustrating kindergarten year, but even so I was very nervous to bring her home for school.

Josi has been homeschooled for the past 8yrs. and here’s where I wish I could give you a nice concise list of curriculum choices that are guaranteed to bring success in your child with Ds. The good news is there is a TON of stuff out there for our uniquely developing kids. The bad news is there’s a lot of trial and error until you find what works for your child—because just like on the ‘typically developing’ spectrum...the Ds spectrum of abilities is wide and varied.

In the beginning I kind of picked up where they left off in kindergarten with sight words, basic math skills (we used Barbies, counting bears, etc. to make it fun), simple handwriting tasks, etc. It was nice spending less than 2hrs. a day on school rather than sending her off at 9am and not seeing her until almost 4pm each day. She learned a whole lot by watching her brothers and playing and sitting with me while I read books aloud.

Josi’s strengths are in Reading, writing and spelling. Part of this is how God gifted her but I also attribute it to the fact that I’ve read with her since the day she was born like I’ve done with our other children. To this day I still read aloud to my 14 and 11 yr. old sons and Josi is right there listening as well. I can’t emphasize enough the benefit of reading A LOT—even if you think they’re not listening...they’re getting something I assure you!

Since she tends to like to use workbooks for these subjects we’ve used the following curriculums fairly consistently with success:
1. Spelling Workout

2. Spectrum Reading

3. Explode the Code

4. A Reason for Handwriting

We also get books from the Library that are high-interest to Josi. She still loves “Franklin” books. The difference now is that she’s reading them to me instead of the other way around.

Math is a whole different ball of wax. Somewhere on that extra 21st chromosome there’s got to be a math gene but so far we haven’t found it. OK, it’s not that bad, but it amazes me that a child who can remember EVERYBODY’s birthday in our entire extended family and most of my friends and their kids, still cannot remember math facts beyond the “doubles”, “zeros”, and “plus ones”. I’ve used most of the curriculums out there including Horizon, Saxon, Spectrum, Montessori Math, Primary Mathematics, and a few others I can’t recall. We experienced some success in each of these texts but when it came time to move on to harder concepts I’d start over with another company. We are currently using Spectrum Math which is a good fit for now.

I used to really stress out over not being able to move past the 2nd grade in Math texts but then I realized (through much prayer and seeking advice from others) that my goal for Josi is to make sure she can use math in such a way to be as independent as possible. So, I figured that if she knew how to use a calculator and had a grasp on money concepts then she was good to go. A few years back I started having her just count money (which is also a great way to learn to count by 2’s, 5’s, and 10’s). Of course when I pull out the money bucket she groans and says, “I hate money!”. To which I almost always reply by singing that song about money, money, money making the world go round the world go round. She sighs and starts counting. Next year I plan to set up a “store” and have her shop and pay for items around the house. Then we’ll eventually move on to some real life shopping experiences.

No school situation is completely perfect but we have found that the homeschooling setting is just right for Josi and perhaps eventually for Nadia (our adopted daughter with Ds-3yrs. old). We make sure she has plenty of opportunities for her social needs to be met through gymnastics, dance classes, Girl Scouts, homeschool co-ops, playdates, etc. Do I sometimes look longingly as the bus pulls away from our corner toward the local elementary school? Sure...especially during Math...but I know this is where God has called us to educate Josi for now, and so He provides me with the patience and creativity I need to be her teacher.

Yikes!

2011-06-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

Will my Mommy ever post again?

I guess first she needs to close out our homeschool year, entertain out-of-town guests, clean out the school room to turn it back into our dining room, make my one-year anniversary video she's been talking about doing for over a month now, take us to the pool because it's already in the 90's, schedule my therapies for the summer as well as attend my IEP meetings to figure out what next school year will look like, catch up on projects she's put off the entire school year, and keep the four of us busy now that school is finished.

I'm still not sure what the big deal is, though.

I can certainly find time in each day with my lightning fast hands to eat dog food, take the contents out of drawers and cabinets, pull the cushions off of the couches, play with my toys, read books, go for stroller rides, take naps, eat my meals and take a bath. I'm quite sure I could find time to blog in between those activities.

I guess the whole 'being younger' thing gives me the energy advantage because I'm sure it has nothing to do with chasing me around all day.

Capturing Josi

2011-05-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

It's not always easy to get a good photograph of Josi that truly shows a glimpse into her unique personality, but yesterday my camera finally captured some of her best 'look's to date. One of my favorites is in the header. She actually gave me a sweet, relaxed smile--no easy thing I must say.

Pensive...taking it all in.

Her "Really Mom?!" look. She's a teenager through and through.

Her, "Ok so what's next?" look.

I don't get too many smiles when I ask for one so this is her typical "Say Cheese" look.

Ah, yes...the tenacious side of Josi. Some call it stubborn. hahaha

And then through the lense I saw these next two shots. A stunningly beautiful girl with so many promises and possibilities. She is more like her peers than she is different. She likes jewelry, painting her nails, wearing pretty dresses (and wearing her jean shorts and t-shirts the other 99% of the time).

These shots reminded me to focus on Seeing The Up Side of Down and that there is way more typical about Josi than not. There is sweetness and compassion along with the quirky and the cantankerous. There is fun-loving and silliness along with her times of introversion and shyness. There is independence and self-sufficiency along with her neediness. In other words, she is just who God intended her to be. It's all a matter of perspective which, by the grace of God, I can adjust to be more like His than the world's.

She's Baaaack!!!

2011-05-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

So it's been almost 3 weeks since Nadia's tonsillectomy/tube surgery and I'd say that she is pretty much back to normal. All sugar and spice...

....ok so perhaps there's a LOT more spice than sugar (at times) in this girl!

This is the "You have me in my high chair so why aren't you feeding me?" look.

"Ah yes...I see my banana and bowl of oatmeal...I'm all sugar again!"

"WAAAHHHH! It's taking too long!!!"

(By the way, anything over .5 seconds from being put into the chair and having food in her mouth is too long for this one!)

During her recovery period she only ate bananas, oatmeal, and yogurt so I was concerned that she'd swear off of those once she felt better, but thankfully she hasn't missed a beat with her 'staple' foods.

Signing "eat"--her appetite is definitely back.

Doing a good job with feeding herself...

...except that it's way TOO SLOW for the "Feed Me Now" Spice Girl!

(Remember The Spice Girls? Can anyone name the original Spice Girls nicknames?)

She's drinking from her cup again too. During her recovery she mostly drank from the syringe that I gave her the medicine in.

So overall, other than those pesky mood swings, Nadia is doing quite well.

We're even back to singing our songs again.

"The Mommy's on the bus say 'sh' 'sh' 'sh' all through the town."

"See Mommy? I'm just as sweet as can be!"

(As she secretly ponders her next outburst.)

Thank you all for asking how she's doing and for your prayers during her recovery. We couldn't have asked for a better post-op patient than this little cutie. (I had to hide the sedation medicine because there are certain family members that still think that a little bit mixed into her drink everyday wouldn't be a bad thing to try.) Hmmmm...

Tribute to My Dad-Part 2

2011-05-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

My Dad loved to go hunting and fishing. He would go deer hunting every year and somehow always return without one. (I finally realized that going out into the snowy woods at 4am was like a vacation for him since he spent most of his time with 5 females!) He'd always laugh at me when I'd ask him if he "caught" one--silly girl that I was. haha

I did, however, improve my hunting verbage enough for him to take me along a few times when he went rabbit hunting. I was so proud to accompany him until I realized that what I was doing--running into the brush to scare out the game-- was what dogs are for. hmpf! I cherish those memories all the same. :)

And when it came to fishing, well that's when my Dad got really brave. He would actually take all 4 of us girls fishing at the same time! I wish we had videos of my Dad scrambling between the four of us to untangle lines, get hooks out of our hair, put the icky worms on for us (ok, that actually never happened because he taught all of us to do that from the start), and take the fish off the hook for us (he did do that for us--what a guy!). Needless to say, he definitely earned some Daddy points with those outings!

Once my Dad retired, he was able to spend more time fishing, and eventually he and some friends hired a fishing guide to take them to the best spots once or twice a year--fisherman's paradise! My Dad never wasted an opportunity to talk about Jesus, so even on these fishing trips, he looked at his time with the fishing guide as a God-ordained moment. This became even more evident when this post appeared on "The Fishing Guide's" blog the day after my Dad died.

March 24, 2011

Guiding Has Created Great Friendships! I Lost One Today.

When I began my smallmouth bass guiding career in 1999, I was pursuing my dream to fish for a living. I bought my first jet boat and headed out on the water to learn how to fish. I had a web site built, started attending outdoor expos soon after and began developing an ever increasing clientele, many of which have become very close friends over the years.

I have gone on fishing trips with some. I have become business partners with one! I have had kids draw me pictures, and send me pictures of them with their "trophies". I've accompanied a few to medical centers with hooks dangling out of different areas of their bodies! I have even shared many personal beliefs and ideas with hundreds of conversations floating down one of our rivers in the boat or driving to and from the river in my truck. it never gets old!

One of those good friends, Glenn Paul, passed away yesterday. Glenn was known to needle me when I'd get frustrated, whether it be him getting snagged in a tree for the 33rd time of the day, or me hitting a rock with the boat, which I did on his last trip with me last year on the Delaware.

Glenn and his good fishing buddy, Bill Blankenbiller, were 2 of my longest tenured clients. They fished all 3 rivers with me, having some interesting memories from each. On our first trip, on the Susquehanna, my oil gage on my boat signaled I was out of oil I never heard the end of my lack of preparedness that day! Another fond memory I have of Glenn is that on their 75 bass day on the Susky years ago, he got his tube jig snagged. I popped the snag off and a bass slammed it instantly! I handed the rod back to him with the fish on. He looked perplexed. Same thing happened an hour later. He really looked perplexed! The third snag, I popped it off and a bass ate it again! I handed the rod to him. He yelled, "You"re doing that on purpose!" I tell that story a lot to this day.

Bill thought of the "fishing guide" on a sad day. I mean, losing his best fishing buddy......It's an honor. These guys I guide from year to year are not just clients, they're friends, part of my past. Glenn and I had some interesting conversations about Jesus, God and the Bible. There are a few angels being entertained today, I'm sure of it! Glenn, just take it easy on them, they already know what's in Romans 7! I'll miss him.

Good Fishin!
Blaine
http://www.backwoodsanglertv.com/

Tribute to My Dad-Part 1

2011-05-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

In order to break through my "writer's block" at trying to compose a tribute worthy of the 77yrs. my Dad lived here on this earth, I've decided that I need to break things down into shorter posts...otherwise I'll just keep procrastinating and never put it all together.

So, I'd like to begin with a composition my youngest son wrote back in December for a writing assignment. He had to interview someone in the family, ask them specific questions, and then compose a short biography about that person...He chose my Dad.

I think this will give you a little glimpse into how my Dad was perceived by his grandchildren. We also had this read at his memorial service.

Here is "Grandpop" with some of his grandchildren

(This was taken last year when Nadia had only been on U.S. soil for 3 days)

12-13-10

The Biography

My grandfather, Glenn Paul, is almost 77 yrs. old and has lived all of his life in Pennsylvania. He was

raised by wonderful Christian parents and had some funny and scary encounters as a kid. One of them

was when he and his friends were stealing tomatoes from a farmer’s field and the farmer shot at them.

He was so scared he peed in his pants.

Some of the things that changed his life were the Great Depression and when he fought in the

Korean War. When he came back from the war his parents had given his car to his brother which didn’t

make him mad but he had to buy another car even though money was scarce.

His love for music made my grandfather one of the best trumpet players I know. He also sings in a

barber shop quartet at his church. He honors God with his musical talents.

He was helped by God when he didn’t know which path to take and God showed him the right path.

Something that helped him in his life is that he loves to listen to people so that he could understand

more things. God has blessed him with my Nonna, 4 wonderful daughters and 10 wonderful

grandchildren. His advice for my life is that I should take my time and chose a God honoring solution for

everything.

I enjoy my grandfather because he is so loving and funny. I like when he tells us stories about when

he fought in the war and when he had funny experiences in his life. He even showed us videos of when

he fought in the war. I’m glad that he is my grandfather. He is the best one in the world.

Still Hanging In There

2011-05-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

It seems there is someone else who is enjoying the 'kinder, gentler' Nadia.

These two aren't usually couch buddies, but it seems A.J. is willing to make an exception since Nadia isn't trying to pull his tail or grab his fur.

Nadia is still improving but it sure is slow going. She is even falling asleep on her therapists!

For A.J., however, sleeping on the couch 8hrs. of the day is pretty typical.

(Hey, barking at squirrels, people, dogs, and falling leaves is pretty tiring!)

Although it's been a little 'easier' with such a docile toddler, I'm looking forward to little Miss Spunky-Pants getting her groove back soon!

Post-Op Update

2011-05-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

We are praising God here at the Ferguson Household! Nadia's recovery has been amazing. No, she's not eating cheeseburgers and pizza, but the fact that she's willing to eat or drink anything at all is an answer to prayer.

The medicine she is on is pretty strong so she looks like this a lot.

And tends to do this once in awhile.

Two of my other children, who shall remain nameless, say they like this 'calmer' version of Nadia.

Needless to say, I'm throwing out the medicine before they can get it refilled for her. hahaha

She's even had moments where she wants to go outside and play and swing so we take those moments when we can, knowing that the fussiness over taking medicine and drinking/eating will be back.

Hey, we've even seen a few glimmers of a smile!!! We're thrilled!!!

She was even feeling well enough yesterday to go watch her big brother play in the big end-of-year tournament.

Allen has been playing soccer for over 10yrs. now and I still love watching him from the sidelines.

His team tied in this game and then won the next, so they will advance to the next level of the tournament the following weekend. Way to go guys!!!

Thank you again for your continued prayers for Nadia's recovery. I'm especially loving how much she wants to be cuddled and held during her fussy and tired moments. She's such a love.

I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream!

2011-04-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Nadia and I woke up bright and early this morning and made our way to the hospital for her surgery.

"That's quite a bright flash for 6:15 in the morning Mommy!"

Nadia seemingly has no memory of her visit here last July for her first ear tube surgery and enjoyed playing in the lobby.

Remember this little girl who at the time had only been home with us less than a month?

I gave her the beeper to keep her occupied then so I decided to do the same today.

I'm thinking that perhaps she's starting to remember this place and why she's here...the smart little cookie!

Even with that faint flashback she's still hamming it up in the pre-op room and having a great time... happily oblivious to what lies ahead.

Think I'll lay back and chill for awhile.

I told her it was time to pray and this was her response. :)

~An Angel in our midst~

Time to practice with the mask again.

9 months ago

Even as she's beeing wheeled back to surgery she's still having her own little party. What a nut!!!

The surgery went very well and our time in recovery was relatively short.

She's doing her 'Calgon Take Me Away' pose...don't blame her one bit!

The nice thing about this recovery is that she really wanted her mommy to comfort her and not the nurse. 9 months ago I was just another 'slightly' familiar face to her. It did my mommy heart good to have this moment even though I knew my baby was in pain.

We had a wonderful nurse in recovery and she just loved Nadia. She told me that before and after surgery the nurses were fighting over who would get to hold Nadia. She finally told the others to "give me that baby--she's mine!". I was able to share our adoption story with her and how God led us to Nadia. I love when God gives us moments like that don't you?

Go ahead...tell us how you really feel.

We arrived home at around 11:30 and all Nadia wanted to do was sleep so we let her. Michael has such a tender heart for Nadia and was the first one to want to hold and comfort her.

Here is a major answer to prayer already! She ate an entire scoop of ice cream. It took a little coaxing at first but eventually she let me feed her the entire portion. To say I'm thrilled is an understatement.

This pretty much shows how I'm feeling right now too!!!

Praise God!!!

She's also been willing to drink a little bit and take her pain meds so far.

And yes, she's even feeling up to being goofy and trying to eat the cute stuffed bunny they gave her at the hospital.

I cannot tell you how thankful I am that she's doing so well so far. We appreciate your continued prayers on her behalf as I know this could easily be a 'honeymoon' period. I'll take whatever I can get and we'll be taking one day at a time. God promises to give us our needed portion of grace for each day so I want to have faith to live that way.

Nadia's Post

2011-04-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

I've been so embarrassed at how infrequently my mommy has been posting lately so I decided to do a post of my own.

My brother Michael turned 11 on April 16th and had a really fun bowling party and got some really cool presents and donuts. I'm not sure but I think I got the short end of the deal with the donuts. There are 4 of us kids, 12 donuts, but I sure didn't get my fair share of 3!!!

Anyway, then we went up to PA for Easter and my sister Josi decided to become an official member of the Polar Bear Club. Nonna's pool was only 55 degrees but Josi insisted on going in.

I'm not sure what the Polar Bear Club's official requirements are but she did go in up to her waist and she stayed in for almost a minute...does that count?

Of course it was my oldest brother Allen who started it all. All he needed was a good dare and he was in...and went all the way under. It took him a good hour to thaw out, though. I think they're both nuts although I did try to make a run for the pool at one point. As usual, one of those tall people grabbed me before I could take the plunge.

OK, so I think Mom is telling me that my computer time is almost up so I'm pretending not to listen because I have a few more pictures I want to post.

Like this one. I love my Nonna and this is one of my favorite pictures of the two of us together. She's so sweet to me and I love giving her hugs and making her laugh.

Can we talk?

What's up with the whole Easter photo shoot thing? I mean, first they plop me down in the middle of the grass, where they fuss at me when I try to eat it, and then they want me to open my eyes in that really bright sun. Do they seriously think I can look happy under those conditions?

They also don't want me taking out that bow that's been itching my head all morning during church.

Then they hand me this delicious looking yellow thing and expect me not to eat it! How much more can I take???

Phooey. I've got to figure out a way to get this over with...and quickly!

How about this pose? I think I saw this on a photography website. This should get them to stop taking photos don't you think?

I think this was one of mommy's favorites because she stopped taking pictures shortly after this one...whew!

That's pretty much all for now except for a quick prayer request. I'm having another set of tubes put in on Thursday because apparently I'm not hearing as well as I should be again. (Little do they know that I'm milking this 'selective hearing' thing for all it's worth). If that's not enough, the ENT doctor told my mom I had huge tonsils which evidentally isn't a good thing. He's going to take those out on Thursday as well.

I've heard that my sister, Josi, didn't do so well with her tonsillectomy recovery and that my mom inadvertently taught Josi some new words that aren't ones she was allowed to repeat. I find that hard to believe because my mommy is always so patient and kind, but I guess anyone can be pushed over the edge when their child spits out her pain medicine and doesn't eat or drink for 10 whole days.

(My mommy put that last sentence in but I let her because she's the one who has to show me how to actually publish this post--is that called blackmail or something?)

Because He Lives...

2011-04-24T19:43:00.000-07:00

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone!
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives!

Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither

I've been humming this song throughout the day today. My heart sings this song in celebration of what my Saviour did for me when He died on the cross to set me free from facing the penalty for my sins...death and separation from Him. Because He rose from the dead and lives, I have the privilege to accept his free gift of salvation and know that once I made him the Lord of my Life, that I too will one day conquer death and live in eternity with Him.

My heart also sings this song today in hopes of adding much needed balm on a fresh wound. You see, this is the first Easter without my earthly father. My father died suddenly on March 23rd at age 77.

I've been composing a tribute to honor the amazing legacy he left behind for all of us who were blessed enough to spend time with him and know him, but the newness of travelling down this path of grief has kept me from being able to write something worthy of the life he lived. I know God will give me the words when it's time.

But for now, I have the joy and assurance that because my father also accepted Jesus to be Lord and Saviour of his life, that he is celebrating Easter in a way that we can only imagine.

What about you? Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that when your time on earth is over that you'll be stepping into eternity holding firmly to the hand of God? Can you say with confidence, "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death , is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55) as you contemplate the end of your life?

"The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Cor. 15:56,57)

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

I pray tonight, as the end of another Easter Celebration winds down, that you have the assurance written about in the hymn at the beginning of this post.

It is only because He lives that I can face the many tomorrows of missing my Dad terribly.

It is only because He lives that all fear of 'life without my Dad in it' is gone.

It is only because He lives that life is worth the living...even a life that has taken a painful u-turn.

It is only because the One who holds my future loved me enough to die on the cross for me, that I can celebrate, even with a tear-stained face, that my father has 'crossed the river' and has seen the 'lights of glory'.

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!!!

Nadia Doing The Wheels On The Bus

2011-04-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

What To Do...

2011-03-09T12:51:00.000-08:00

...When Your 3yr. Old Doesn't Nap?

You have a fashion show!

You dig into the closet and pull out all of her older sister's dance costumes and let the fun begin!!!

Oh Yes! We're having fun now. This is MUCH better than napping.

Hey, come back here! We're not finished yet...2 more costumes to go.

I wish I knew how to scan old photos into my computer because I could show you how cute Josi looked in these costumes as well. (Before you go and try to 'teach' me in the comment section, I should have clarified and told the truth that I really don't WANT to learn how to scan photos. There, the confession is out.)

The point is...Josi looked just as yummy in these costumes as Nadia now does! :)

I think she's getting the hang of this 'runway' fashion show don't you?

Except for the sitting down part. I don't think they do that in Paris.

Last but not least...the "Perfectly Posh in Purple" costume.

The back view of this divine garment.

"Can we do this every day instead of napping?

Uhhhhh....NO! :)

My (newest) Funny Valentine!

2011-02-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures I took of little goofy girl on Valentine's Day!

She's such a nut.

A rare, relaxed sweet smile from the comedienne.

See what I mean?

Classic 'Nadia' look.

"See Mom? I sometimes smile when you ask me to."

Yes, my newest Valentine can be sugary sweet one minute...

...and endearingly silly the next.

But she's my funny Valentine and she makes me smile with my heart. :)

Father-Daughter Dance

2011-02-16T18:39:00.000-08:00

This year's Father-Daughter Dance at our church happened to be scheduled for Josi's birthday which made turning 13 all the more special!

Time to get ready for her special date!

1st up--a special manicure with bright red nail polish!

Now it's time to work on the hair...

Can you tell we don't do this too often? hahaha

(And no, I did not burn her--she's just a little goofy sometimes...just like the rest of her family!)

Josi gives a "thumbs up" for the beauty preparations.

Daddy makes sure Josi knows how special she is so he brings her a rose to get their evening off to a great start.

One very pretty and excited girl to be getting her Daddy all to herself tonight!

"You'll get your turn when you're older Nadia. This dance is just for big girls like me."

All dressed up and ready to go...

...but not without her date!

A kiss from the special man in her life.

Showing Josi how a lady should be treated.

Can you tell she's just a 'little' excited for this evening to begin?

There's just nothing quite like the relationship between a Daddy and his Daughter and I'm thankful that this Daddy makes sure both of his daughters know they are loved, protected, and cherished for who they are.

Another Teenager??!!

2011-02-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true! There are now two teenagers in our house as of yesterday.

13yrs. ago this young lady came into the world. Her arrival was 7 weeks early and she spent 19 days in the NICU but she's been going gang-busters ever since.

Her day began with balloons and her request for Boston Kreme doughnuts!

Hugs from big brother Allen who was only 17months old when she arrived and usurped his role as the baby and only child. (I'm still not sure if he's gotten over that one-haha!)

Hmm...seems Michael is more interested in the doughnut than in the birthday hug, but it's the thought that counts right?

Sweet Birthday Kisses from a little sister.

Now, on to the good stuff. At our house, birthdays are a pretty big deal and because we homeschool, the birthday girl or boy gets to take the school day off and fill it with his/her favorite activities.

Josi spent most of her day watching home movies (one of her all-time favorite activities which just happens to be mine as well!) We also played some of her favorite games. Fun, fun!

Of course the birthday calls came throughout the day. Every time the phone rang, Josi said, "Birthday Call!", and then would put the phone on speaker so we could all listen. And, if she didn't get sung to, she would request that the caller do so! The girl knows what she wants!

Present Time!

Josi loves playing games and so we got her Twister Hoopla and this one called Hedbanz where you put a card on your headband and ask the other players questions to help you guess what your card says. I think this will be a fun addition to our family game times.

Josi only asked for one thing this year. One night not too long ago, Nadia was playing with Josi's magnadoodle (which was totally annoying Josi). I happened to ask Josi right then what she wanted for her birthday. She quickly and emphatically responded, "A little magnadoodle for Nadia!" :) So much for the whole sharing thing we're trying to work on.

Birthday Wish Granted!

The Peanut Gallery waiting to try out the presents.

The boys are usually willing participants when Josi wants to play 'beauty shop' (as am I), because who can turn down having their hair combed and styled right?

A manicure too? OK, it's her birthday so I'll play along.

Someone looks happily surprised with her 'gift'. :)

Isn't she a beauty? She's all dressed up for a very special occasion...but you'll have to wait to find out in an upcoming post!

Josi, we can't imagine our lives without you. Our family is extremely blessed to have you in it and we love you VERY, VERY MUCH!!!

Happy Birthday!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

Caption Ideas Anyone???

Better Late Than Never

2011-01-30T19:54:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to do a post all month since this is "National Sanctity of Life Month", so here it is on the eve of the last day of the month and I'm finally getting around to it.

I grew up in a Christian home, attended church regularly, read and memorized scripture, including the verses in Psalm 139: 13,14 that say,
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

However, it wasn't until 19 weeks into my 2nd pregnancy that my belief in whether those words were true or not would be tested. The phone call from the doctor at 4:30 on a Thursday afternoon in October 1997, confirming a diagnosis of Down syndrome for the baby girl I was carrying, would bring me to a crisis of faith I could never have imagined.

Did I really believe that this baby was fearfully and wonderfully made? A wonderful work of God? If I put my belief in the way society views individuals with special needs, then I would certainly think the Bible had it all wrong in this case. 90% of babies with Down syndrome are aborted in our society because they aren't viewed as fearfully and wonderfully made. My own doctor was quick to remind me that I wasn't too far along in my pregnancy to choose that option as well.

I'd be lying if I said that this 'quick answer to the problem' didn't find its way into my swirl of emotions and thoughts that first 24hrs. I too struggled with viewing this baby as anything but wonderful. All of my hopes of having the daughter of my dreams were dashed with this diagnosis of 'perceived imperfection'. I cried out to God and asked him how this fit into his Word that says we are ALL "fearfully and wonderfully made".

I didn't get a quick response from God on this one. In fact, He has patiently used the last 12 (almost 13) years with Josi in our lives (and now Nadia) to teach me the truth of those verses. Sometimes he has had to knock me over the head with a two-by-four, other times he gives me treasured moments of 'normalcy' to show me that ALL of his creation is JUST the way He meant it to be.

Most recently, He's shown me through the amazing lives of hundreds of families who actually seek out children with disabilities to become part of their families, just how "fearfully and wonderfully made" ALL children are and the VALUE they have not only in God's eyes but in the eyes of those who believe those verses are true. Not just the ones that are so cute that you just want to smother them with kisses, but even the ones that at first glance you're tempted to turn away from. They are ALL WONDERFUL because they are ALL WORKS OF GOD.

I don't profess to be 'there' yet on this issue, and I still struggle with the desire to have a 'typical' daughter in my life, but I'm thankful that God has given me not one, but two, living, breathing, 24/7 reminders that His standards of perfection are WAY different...and I dare say,much better than what the world's are.

I'll leave you with this column that you may or may not have read already that I've always loved. It's a tribute to Moms who are raising children with special needs.

Enjoy!

My friend is expecting her first child. People keep asking what she wants. She smiles demurely, shakes her head and gives the answer mothers have given throughout the ages of time. She says it doesn’t matter whether it’s a boy or a girl. She just wants it to have ten fingers and ten toes. Of course, that’s what she says. That’s what mothers have always said.

Mothers lie.

Truth be told, every mother wants a whole lot more. Every mother wants a perfectly healthy baby with a round head, rosebud lips, button nose, beautiful eyes and satin skin.

Every mother wants a baby so gorgeous that people will pity the Gerber baby for being flat-out ugly. Every mother wants a baby that will roll over, sit up and take those first steps right on schedule (according to the baby development chart on page 57, column two). Every mother wants a baby that can see, hear, run, jump and fire neurons by the billions. She wants a kid that can smack the ball out of the park and do toe points that are the envy of the entire ballet class. Call it greed if you want, but we mothers want what we want.

Some mothers get babies with something more. Some mothers get babies with conditions they can’t pronounce, a spine that didn’t fuse, a missing chromosome or a palette that didn’t close. Most of those mothers can remember the time, the place, the shoes they were wearing and the color of the walls in the small,suffocating room where the doctor uttered the words that took their breath away. It felt like recess in the fourth grade when you didn’t see the kick ball coming and it knocked the wind clean out of you.

Some mothers leave the hospital with a healthy bundle, then, months, even years later, take him in for a routine visit, or schedule her for a well check, and crash head first into a brick wall as they bear the brunt of devastating news. It can’t be possible! That doesn’t run in our family. Can this really be happening in our lifetime? I am a woman who watches the Olympics for the sheer thrill of seeing finely sculpted bodies. It’s not a lust thing; it’s a wondrous thing. The athletes appear as specimens without flaw - rippling muscles with nary an ounce of flab or fat, virtual powerhouses of strength with lungs and limbs working in perfect harmony. Then the athlete walks over to a tote bag, rustles through the contents and pulls out an inhaler.

As I’ve told my own kids, be it on the way to physical therapy after a third knee surgery, or on a trip home from an echo cardiogram, there’s no such thing as a perfect body. Everybody will bear something at some time or another. Maybe the affliction will be apparent to curious eyes, or maybe it will be unseen, quietly treated with trips to the doctor, medication or surgery. The health problems our children have experienced have been minimal and manageable, so I watch with keen interest and great admiration the mothers of children with serious disabilities, and wonder how they do it.

Frankly, sometimes you mothers scare me. How you lift that child in and out of a wheelchair 20 times a day. How you monitor tests, track medications, regulate diet and serve as the gatekeeper to a hundred specialists yammering in your ear. I wonder how you endure the clichés and the platitudes, well-intentioned souls explaining how God is at work when you’ve occasionally questioned if God is on strike. I even wonder how you endure schmaltzy pieces like this one — saluting you, painting you as hero and saint, when you know you’re ordinary. You snap, you bark, you bite. You didn’t volunteer for this. You didn’t jump up and down in the motherhood line yelling, “Choose me, God! Choose me! I’ve got what it takes.”

You’re a woman who doesn’t have time to step back and put things in perspective, so, please, let me do it for you. From where I sit, you’re way ahead of the pack. You’ve developed the strength of a draft horse while holding onto the delicacy of a daffodil. You have a heart that melts like chocolate in a glove box in July, carefully counter-balanced against the stubbornness of an Ozark mule. You can be warm and tender one minute, and when circumstances require, intense and aggressive the next. You are the mother, advocate and protector of a child with a disability. You’re a neighbor, a friend, a stranger I pass at the mall. You’re the woman I sit next to at church, my cousin and my sister-in-law. You’re a woman who wanted ten fingers and ten toes, and got something more.

You’re a wonder.

Written by: Lori Borgman Columnist and Speaker

Fearfully...

...and Wonderfully Made!

One Year Ago Today...

2011-01-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

...We took a step of faith and committed to this sweet little face on the Reece's Rainbow Website.

Up until this day, we had been praying about which child, out of the sea of faces staring back at us, we would choose to be part of our family. It was an unsettling and somewhat bizarre process for us. I was hoping to have a sense of peace or at least feel 'settled' in my spirit once we finally decided on "Nadine" (her name on the website). This was a HUGE decision we were making...not just for the child we were to choose, but for our family as well and I wanted to 'feel' completely SURE that this was what God truly wanted us to do. But you know what? That's where Faith comes into play. We knew that the whisper God had put into our hearts to adopt had grown into a clear path of obedience that we were willing to walk down with Him. And oftentimes, God will ask you to do something and once you take that first step IN FAITH, only THEN will He equip you with what you need to go through with it.

God did part the Red Sea BEFORE the Israelites had to pass through it to escape the Egyptians.

However, when it was time to cross the flood-level waters of the Jordan River, the Priests had to take an initial Step of Faith INTO the churning, fast-paced, deep water before God stopped the water from flowing.

So, it wasn't until my index finger hit the "send" button to let the director of Reece's Rainbow know who we were choosing, that I was suddenly flooded with the peace I had been hoping for. A confirmation in my spirit that before the beginning of time, God had chosen Nadia to one day become a part of our family. And you know what? That peace God gave me in that moment never wavered the entire journey to our girl.

To borrow a quote from a book I've read through twice now, called Reckless Faith by Beth Guckenberger, "Sometimes reckless faith requires no further action. You just have to hold on to the limb you've been led out on and trust that it doesn't break."

What limb is God asking you to climb out on? Are you waiting for God to tell you things like how much weight the limb will hold, or what is the view like out on the end of the limb? Or are you ready to experience the exhiliration of a reckless faith that says, "Ok God, I have no idea how safe or comfortable this limb might be, but if you're going to be on it with me then let's GO FOR IT!!!"

I can tell you from experience that sometimes I'm clinging to that limb with my eyes closed, but when I look out from the limb through faith-filled eyes and allow God to pry my fingers from the death-grip I have on the limb, I can truly experience God's best for me!

So go ahead, put your foot into the water and just watch God clear the best path for you!

One Year Ago Today...I could only imagine moments like this one!

We're Still Here...

2011-01-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

...But currently trying to dig out from under a busy few weeks with family in town, sinus infections and strep throat, life, and life. :)

Hope to post Nadia's 1st Christmas Photos before Valentine's Day!

Don't Look Now...

2010-12-24T19:55:00.000-08:00

...But Someone...

...Who is hiding behind her veil...

...Will be celebrating Her First Christmas with Her Family tomorrow!

Not only will she experience treats she's never had before...

Or the joy she has never felt,

Or the laughter she's never known,

She'll be given one of the best gifts we can give one another...the unconditional love of a family whose desire is to serve God and raise our children to do the same.

I'd say we all have something to look forward to tomorrow morning as we unwrap the gift of another year of being together as a family and being able to share that gift with someone we didn't even know existed last Christmas.

Merry Christmas to all of you!

Nadia's Birthday Celebration-Part 3

2010-12-19T12:27:00.000-08:00

Nadia was celebrated and sung to by our small group, was taken out to dinner by her family, and was promised a birthday party to wrap up her 3-part birthday celebration. However, when the mom got sick, everything that was supposed to happen last weekend got cancelled or put on hold. Quite frankly, I was feeling so badly that I was leaning more toward cancelling the party rather than postponing it...

But then I looked at this face and remembered that she has 2yrs. of NOT celebrating her birthday to make up for!

So...Let's Get This Party Started!!!

We rescheduled, made sure all of the party guests could still attend, got the girls dressed in their matching outfits, ordered a cake instead of making one, and voila...Nadia's party was ready to begin!

Some of you out there who are in their late 40s and mid-50s like Jim and I are might have some trouble coming up with friends who have toddlers to invite to your toddler's party, but thankfully we have a diverse group of friends who are still having children either biologically or through adoption...so Nadia's guest list included 4 sweet friends.

One of whom is cutie-pie Milana who was also recently adopted from Ukraine and only lives 4 blocks away from us! Josi loves Milana... and her sisters and Momma have become good friends of ours too.

Before the rest of the party guests arrived, Nadia decided to make up her own game...

...I think it's called "Crib Diving".

She was actually reaching for the shape blocks inside of the crib and kind of fell in (the first time).

She thought it was such fun that she ended up trying it again...and again.

Then more friends arrived. Atley and her Mommy have been praying since this past January for Nadia to come home to our family so Nadia holds a special place in their hearts. It's amazing to see how God has used our adoption to plant seeds even in the youngest of hearts like little Atley who is now praying for other orhans to find families as well.

The "theme" of Nadia's party was ornaments so all of the girls got to decorate an ornament to hang on their tree. The girls also received a Reece's Rainbow ornament so they can be praying specifically for an orphan who needs a family. (It's not too late to donate to the RR Christmas AngelTree Fund. Just click on this link and help one or more orphans in this very important way).

This is Kate's 2nd Christmas with her family after being adopted from Guatemala.

Nadia got some help with her ornament from big brother Michael, and cousin Jessica. (The brown theme wasn't planned but it kind of works doesn't it?) :)

Milana's working hard on getting those sequins glued on.

Atley proudly shows her beautiful Christmas tree ornament.

Allen was put on baby rocking duty and although it doesn't look it, sitting on the couch occasionally rocking the car seat was much more of his 'thing' than helping with the craft.

Nadia still doesn't get the blowing out the candle part of all of this...

...but she sure has the smashing/eating part down just fine!

Guess this part comes naturally to all children!

This is Bella, our God-daughter (whose baby sister Allen was rocking).

I think her green lips go quite well with her pink bow and polka dots!

Kate is the only one who missed the class on 'getting messy' while eating cupcakes. I'm sure her mom is glad she was absent that day. ha ha

This is the best shot I could get of the party crowd, which considering they are all between the ages of 2 and 4, is pretty darn good after all!

My Dad asked me how much I thought Nadia 'got' of this being her birthday celebration. I'm not sure of the answer to that. She still doesn't seem to completely 'know' that we are her mommy, daddy, sister and brothers, BUT based on the blossoming we see each day, I believe she is definitely 'getting' how much we love her and that she is safe and taken care of.

The important thing is that we get to celebrate with her and that we keep giving her every opportunity to understand how special and loved she is.

Happy Birthday Nadia Irina Ferguson!!!

Nadia Turns 3!!!

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

For Nadia's 1st birthday celebration with us, we're making sure she understands how big a deal birthdays are in the Ferguson Family!

Her 3-part celebration began with our small group on Sunday night. We had the kids all stand around Nadia as we sang to her. She wasn't quite sure what all the hub-bub was about and her sister, Josi, blew the candle out before Nadia even had a chance to figure that part out...

...but when it came to the cake part of this birthday deal, this little one had a ball.

She started out a little tentative (all 2 seconds of it that is)...

...Then she kind of started finger-painting with the icing until I finally put her hands up to her mouth so she could taste what she was smearing.

"Ahhhh! So that's what this is all about...yummy!"

We let her continue to smear and shove cake in her mouth until it was pretty much all gone.

I think she's trying to tell me that she's not done yet and that if I touch her plate she might have to bite my hand! Priceless Nadia Expression for sure!

The end product was one messy, happy, sugar-filled little girl...just the way it should be on your birthday!

Today, for her actual birthday, we decided to celebrate both of the birthday girls (mine is tomorrow) by going out for dinner.

Momma gets an early birthday kiss from today's birthday princess!

We're kind of liking this getting dressed up and heading out to eat celebration thing!

One precious little girl 'steppin' out' with her Daddy!

Having some silly time before the food comes to the table.

Not just the little one is silly at restaurants.

Time for another round of "Happy Birthday" and another cake!

"Hmmm...I could get used to this cake thing that keeps happening!"

I'm with you on that one Nadia. I'm going to eat my fill too!

I never get my fill, however, of loving on and being loved by this special little girl.

She is such a gift to our family and I'm so thrilled that she doesn't have to spend another birthday without a family. I told everyone at dinner tonight that last year at this time, Nadia was just a whisper in our hearts. This year she is sitting at the same table with us and eating lots of cake! :)

Nadia still has one more birthday celebration to look forward to. Her very first birthday party with little girl party guests, games, more cake, and all the trimmings will happen on Saturday.

Happy Birthday to our beautiful 3yr old!

Snow? In NC???

2010-12-06T19:10:00.000-08:00

This doesn't happen too often down here in the sunny South and especially NOT before most of the Northeast gets their first snow of the year...

But this past Saturday we got a nice little dusting that was perfect for a little Ukrainian girl to experience her 'first' snow.

Although I know that it snows TONS where Nadia is from, I also know that this girl has never once set foot out into the glorious white stuff from above!

She knew exactly what to do, though, and started reaching up to catch her first ever snowflake.

You got it sweetie!

And there are lots more where that one came from-whoopee!!

Trying out her 'snow legs'.

She had a ball and I couldn't help but experience a bittersweet moment that she got to enjoy something so child-like, simple, and fun...but knowing that many in her orphanage will never do things like this that we take for granted for our own children.

Nadia had so much fun that when I told her it was time to come in she started signing "more please".

This Northern transplant Momma will definitely be praying for MORE SNOW this year and more child-like memories for this little one.

Special Visitors

2010-12-03T19:24:00.000-08:00

When we were in Ukraine we got to meet a missionary who is also a friend of my parents. I wrote about it here.

He is currently back in the States for his furlough and wouldn't you know, we had a chance to meet up with him while we were in PA.

Here is a picture of Nadia and Ken Sears on her 'Gotcha Day'. We were leaving that evening for the train ride back to Kiev but we had just enough time for Ken to stop by the hotel in Zaporozhye and meet the newest Ferguson.

Five months later, Ken gets to see how much Nadia has blossomed.

What Ken remembers most about Nadia in his brief visit in the hotel room was her fascination with the air blowing from the air conditioner. (If you don't remember, Ukraine was experiencing it's worst heat wave in over 80yrs. while we were there, so she was LOVING the cool air after the hot stuffy air at the orphanage.)

Now she's all about fun and games with her good buddy Ken. :)

We had a great time catching up with Ken and marvelling again at this very unique connection God gave our family. Ken will be heading back to Ukraine in early January, so if you think of it, please pray for the ministry he is providing in a country that is steeped in religious tradition instead of experiencing a life-giving relationship with a living Lord.

One final hug good-bye.

This next special visitor is one of my dearest friends, Sue Cotton. She just happened to move to the West Coast shortly after we arrived home with Nadia, so she's only 'seen' Nadia in blog pictures. Sue is the adoptive mom of 5 kiddos so our journey to Nadia held a special place in her heart.

She flew into Raleigh for a weekend with family and ME, and of course to meet Nadia. They shared lots of hugs and giggles as we caught up over hot mugs of tea.

Tomorrow I get to spend most of the day with Sue as we celebrate our birthdays and our friendship...just the Moms! I can hardly wait!!!

This Year at Thanksgiving...

2010-11-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful that last year at this time I stumbled upon this website: http://www.reecesrainbow.com/newsite/ and learned of the plight of orphans with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe, whose destiny, if not adopted by age 4, was to live a greatly shortened life span in a mental institution.

I'm thankful that God had already planted the seeds in my and my husband's hearts to expand our family prior to stumbling upon this website.

I'm thankful that we kept coming back to this little girl's picture on Reece's Rainbow and that Josi kept pointing to her and saying, "I want her for my sister."

I'm thankful that God had all along been preparing this man's heart to love and raise not just one, but two daughters with special needs. (If you're newer to our blog, you need to pause here and read my husband's heartfelt, and only, blog post written while in Ukraine getting Nadia: http://seeingtheupsideofdown.blogspot.com/2010/06/fathers-love-february-11-1998.html)

I'm thankful that Nadia is now home and is sharing sweet moments like this with the sister who 'picked' her for her own.

But mostly I'm thankful for the opportunity to give this little girl a family and to be used by God in such a tangible way to fulfill one of His many purposes as His hands and feet here on earth.

I'm especially thankful that this Thanksgiving, Nadia is playing in a pile of leaves instead of rocking back and forth in her crib, pulling her hair and banging her head, which at that time were her only sources of amusement.

In my moment of reflection on being thankful that Nadia has found her way into our hearts and ours into hers as her forever family, I can't help but grieve for the MILLIONS of orphans who spent their Thanksgiving exactly how Nadia did last year--unloved, stuck in a crib, waiting for a family to step out of their comfort zone and bring them home. We all have so much to be thankful for. God has blessed all of us abundantly. Is it time for you to step out of your comfort zone and reach out to an orphan in need? Perhaps it's not time to bring one of these children into your family but ALL of us can do something.

Reece's Rainbow is in the midst of their biggest fundraiser for the year. Please consider donating to an orphan's fund here http://reecesrainbow.org/?s=angel+tree&x=13&y=18 so that those who want to add another blessing to their family can do so...and so not one more orphan has to spend another Thanksgiving alone. We are God's hands and feet. He doesn't NEED us to rescue the orphans but thankfully He allows us the PRIVILEGE to be part His plan for their lives so we too can receive the blessings that come along with what He considers to be "pure and faultless religion".

James 1:27: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

We're Having Way Too Much Fun...

2010-11-27T17:54:00.000-08:00

...for me to take the time to do a thought-provoking Thanksgiving Post.

So I'll save the "what I'm thankful for this year" list for my next post. In the meantime, join in with my family and share a few laughs as you look at these pictures. We can all use a good laugh right? And I think the research says that laughing burns more calories than just looking at pictures and smiling. I know I could sure stand to burn off a few extra calories after the past few days of feasting!

ENJOY!!!

I think most of you know that this little one will be at the top of my 'thankful' list when I finally get a chance to write it! :)

"From Ukraine, With Love"

2010-11-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

We're all in Pennsylvania celebrating Thanksgiving with my family but apparently this article showed up in our North Raleigh newspaper this morning. Enjoy!

http://www.northraleighnews.com/2010/11/24/5419/from-ukraine-with-love.html

Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! Anyone else having homemade lasagna like we are? (Crazy Italians that we are!)

We Spent Our Weekend...

2010-11-14T13:24:00.000-08:00

...Watching soccer,

...Cheering for goals scored,

...Holding babies,

...Sliding down slides,

...Enjoying being outdoors,

...Watching this boy turning into one handsome young man,

...Finding a bonnet that had been missing for 4 months and is Nadia's only tangible tie to her life before us.

Want to know where it was? In the glove compartment of the boat at our lake place where we haven't been in...you guessed it...4 months!

That's how we spent our weekend. How did you spend yours? (Warning: Those of you who are Ohio State Fans may not mention anything about a certain game where you beat a certain team as part of "what you did this weekend"...got it???) Not that I'm bitter or anything...it's just I already know that part of your weekend so you don't need to mention it. ha ha

Raising Awareness

2010-11-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

Below is a link to the Triangle Down Syndrome Network (TDSN) Newsletter where an article featuring our adoption of Nadia, as well as the adoptions of 2 other cuties with Ds into Raleigh area families, can be found on pages 8 and 9. I love how God is allowing more and more coverage of Reece's Rainbow and the extremely critical situation of the Eastern European orphans with special needs. Make sure you check out the cover page to see a picture of Andrea Roberts--the founder and director of Reece's Rainbow.
http://triangledownsyndrome.org/cmsmadesimple/uploads/newsletters/2010%20Archive/TDSN_Newsletter_2010_Nov-Dec.pdf

And in other VERY EXCITING NEWS...JOE PATERNO just won his 400th college football game to add yet another milestone to his infamous career at PENN STATE!!! (He is already the winningest coach in Division I Football). And to think he'll be turning 84 in December! Makes me think back to my post about acting your age. You can read it here if you want to: http://seeingtheupsideofdown.blogspot.com/2010/04/act-your-age.html

CONGRATULATIONS JOEPA!

Udderly Adorable!

2010-10-31T18:52:00.000-07:00

Growing up, my Mom always made our Halloween Costumes so when the grandchildren came along, she got her patterns and sewing kit out and went to town. For Nadia's size, I had handmade costume choices between her being a duck, a clown, or a cow...

I chose the cow!

I believe all 3 of my children and the other cousins have all worn this costume!

Could she be any cuter???

Even the view from the back is as cute-as-can-be!

Along with the farm animal we also had a rock star...

...and a purple princess. Josi was supposed to wear this costume last year but she got sick and had to stay inside with me to hand out candy.

Is she looking more like a teenage princess or what???

Allen didn't dress up this year, but his dog did so he still got some goodies in his "doggie bag".

Allen thought he might try having the dog lead the boy with the bag over his head. That only lasted until A.J. took off after a squirrel (he may be dressed as a hot dog but he's a hunter at heart!)

Costumes or no costumes, I'm thankful I get to be Mommy to all (5) of them. Yes, A.J. is part of the family and is still the one having the hardest time adjusting to Nadia ~~intruding~~ joining our family.

About this time Nadia is thinking that being a princess is a much better deal than having to be a cow.

Josi reminds her that she has to bide her time until she's bigger and can give input into the costume decisions. Until then...it's all up to Mommy (and whatever Nonna has put together).

"OK, I'll wait to be a princess but this cow hood thingie has got to go!"

MAD COW!

MOO!

This Little Pumpkin...

2010-10-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

...CAN HEAR!!!

Nadia passed her hearing test today with flying colors--orange mostly! ha ha

The audiologist said it was like testing a different child. We both agreed what a difference a few months of being spoken to directly and engaged in 'conversation' can make in how a child responds to sounds. Yes, the tubes have made a difference, but the greatest change is in how Nadia responds to sounds. She had learned to completely tune things out while in the orphanage and so it's been amazing to watch her transformation in this area. :)

Blossoms in the Fall

2010-10-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

Most of us look forward to the Spring to enjoy the sweetness and beauty of the blossoms on plants and trees. However, after spending a day in the park with 3 Ukrainian trans'plants' (ok, just work with me here), I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that Fall can also be a time of experiencing amazing growth and blossoming!

My friend Lisa and I made the trek up to Virginia to meet Adeye and her crew halfway between our two homes. This is the 2nd time we've done this (you can read about the first visit here: http://seeingtheupsideofdown.blogspot.com/2010/07/im-first.html ) and I'm sure it won't be our last!

This picture was taken in June when we were only home a week from Ukraine. We were travelling back to NC from PA and we stopped in VA to visit with the Salems.

Our three little Ukrainian beauties looked a little pale and had a bit of that "deer-in-the-headlights" look about them. Can you blame them? They had just been so recently taken from everything they knew (one for almost 5yrs. of her life).

Nadia and Harper playing side by side for the first time. They weren't quite sure what to do with each other at this point.

Four months later and I believe I see the beginnings of a friendship blossoming!

Josi is always the first one to get down and interact with the littlest ones. She took to Harper and Hailee right away on that meeting in late June.

Four months later and it's Harper who is seeking out Josi for some interaction time! (Either that or Josi's got some food that Harper wants...this girl can EAT!)

This little one had the roughest beginnings of the 3 and still has quite a road ahead of her. But as I reflected back on this picture from 4 months ago when Hailee had to keep a hat on to keep from scratching her ears raw...

...as compared to the other day when her beautiful flaxen hair is no longer hidden from view, I have no choice but to praise her Maker and the plan He had for her in placing her in the Salem family! What a doll she is! Ahhh...such a sweet fragrance that surrounds God's miracles!

We spent lots of time loving on the little girls and showing them how valued they are.

Lisa gets in some snuggle time with Hailee because we all know that these little plants need lots of love to help them grow!

Nadia gets to share Adeye's lap with Harper...

...much to Harper's chagrin. She was ready to get her Mommy's lap back to herself!

I would definitely say that even though our girls were brought home in late Spring and early Summer, their time of blossoming is more evident now more than ever...in the best season of all...FALL!!!

The State Fair, Baby!

2010-10-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

(WARNING: Picture Overload May Occur While Viewing This Blog Entry)

One of our family's favorite Fall activities is to go to the North Carolina State Fair--especially since it's right here in our home city of Raleigh. We all have different things that we like about spending the day at the fair and so we try to make sure we cover them all. Here goes...

The boys really like to pet and feed the animals, large and small. Josi...not so much.

"So, you want me to hold out my hand and let this furry thing eat some food out of it???"

"OK, I'm trusting you on this one Daddy...let's do it."

"Hmmm...maybe if he can't reach it, I'll get to eat the carrot."

Michael, my tender-hearted child, be-friended the smallest goat and made sure the bigger goats didn't get the food away from him.

Josi is happy to feed and hold her favorite 'pet'...her sister! :)

Now on to some rides! Josi is game for just about any of the rides and so she and Daddy went down the giant slide to get things started. Her glasses broke at the bottom (they were already damaged and being held together with super-glue) but otherwise it was a fun ride. The ride attendants ended up giving us some tape to temporarily fix her glasses so Josi could see for the rest of the day.

Allen is not so much a ride guy but will jump at the chance to try new foods. His favorite part of the fair is definitely the eating part and there is always a lot to choose from.

Josi makes sure Nadia doesn't stray too far away when we give her a 'break' from her stroller.

One of Josi's favorites is the Merry-go-Round. I always have a flashback while standing next to this ride because it was here, 13yrs. ago, that I pondered with a tear-stained face, the 1-day old diagnosis of Down syndrome for the baby girl I was carrying. We went to the fair with Jim's parents (Allen was only 13months old at the time) and met my sister with her 2 young children as well.

The thought that stood out in my mind as I stood watching Jim take Allen on the merry-go-round was that there was not one single child with Down syndrome at the entire fair. Where were they? Were we the only ones experiencing this?

I also had a very strong resolution that I shared with Jim immediately...that we would NEVER keep our child hidden away...that she would go with us everywhere and be a part of everything we do as a family and that others would see that there is beauty and even "normalcy" in having a child with Ds.

So, seeing this beauty riding the merry-go-round is always a thrill for me--even 13yrs. later.

And of course being able to accompany our newest beauty on her first ever ride at the State Fair just filled my cup to overflowing!

Now on to my favorite part of the fair--the rides that make you scream and feel as if your stomach has just left the building...I LOVE IT!!!

However, I had to be patient because Jim got to ride the first thrill ride. Plus, I'm never so sure that these mega-drop rides are really going to "catch" you before you slam to the ground and become a squatty-body for the rest of your life. Fortunately, both of my guys are still the same height after their ride.

We had to stop in the Expo Building on the way to the bigger rides so Nadia got a chance to see some farm animals (you know...the ones that you go in and look at and try not to tell your children that they'll be steak and hamburgers next week.)

I just had to throw this one in because my husband is so darn handsome and our newest daughter is so darn cute!!!

OK, call me weird, but next to the thrill rides, I get a kick out of seeing the prize-winning pumpkin every year. And every year I have to take a picture of it. So, here it is...all 864 pounds of it!!!

I'm getting warmed up on this mini-roller coaster with Josi. I showed her how to hold her arms in the air and scream so she'll be ready to go on the Ring-of-Fire (ROF) with me once she's tall enough! Woo Hoo!

Since I couldn't talk anyone into going on the ROF with me this year, I had to settle for the Cobra with my boys. OK, this is one of those rides that spins your car one way while the larger arm spins you the other way. I'm ashamed to admit that I had to close my eyes to keep from hurling. I'd take the fastest, most curvy, loop-de-loop roller coaster any day over these spinning torture chambers!

We could only sit 2 to a car so Allen had to share the ride with a stranger. He handles these situations so well...it makes me very proud!

Had to do the Flying Bobs before calling it a day on the rides. Josi mentioned partway through the ride that she was going to be sick so I did what any good Mom would do and just told her to hold up her arms and scream. Woo Hoo!

Nadia was quite the trooper in her stroller but we made sure we gave her lots of attention which she rewarded with lots of kisses.

I have a feeling now that Josi has experienced the Bungee Jumping that the merry-go-round might be a thing of the past. She wants us to put one of these up in our backyard. :)

To top things off...everyone gets to pick their poison...I mean their final fair treat.

Allen chose the fried Oreos while Michael went with an old stand-by.

Josi, a girl after my own heart, went straight for the funnel cake. Yummy!

Last but not least, I cornered a nice lady and asked her to take a family photo to commemorate our first State Fair as a family of 6. Um...perhaps I should have emphasized the family of 6 thing a little more clearly!

(We did end up getting one with all of us, which is at the top of my blog, but this picture just made me laugh too hard not to include it.)

Just for Jodi

2010-10-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

I tried to get a picture of just me and my cousin, Lucy the llama, but wouldn't you know it...that "has to be included in everything" Jodi decided to sneak in for the photo.

(More pictures from Nadia's first visit to the State Fair coming in another post--Blogger was running EXTREMELY slowly today in uploading photos so I finally gave up!)

Oh, and by the way, if you don't "get" this post, you need to go WAY back on Jodi's blog to where it all began (sort of): http://findinghunter.blogspot.com/2010/06/my-friend-kristin-is-traveling-tomorrow.html

A Very Special Day!

2010-10-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was a day filled with tradition, family, spiritual significance, and overwhelming joy.

My heart filled to overflowing in seeing my Josi perform with the "Extreme Worship" kids choir at our church. Josi has always loved music but because of the bright lights and loud volume in "big" church, she's never wanted to participate before. We've come a long way in many areas but this one was HUGE because I know her presence up on stage was a blessing to so many people.

As is typical of Josi, she's looking around making sure that we're all in our seats and ready to go.

The choir only had two practices and yet Josi knew ALL of the words and ALL of the hand motions that went along with them. I could hardly join in as I was overcome with such emotion in seeing my big girl using one of the many gifts God has given her, for His Glory!

She is completely in her element when there is music combined with hand motions. I think she learned all the hand motions to "The Wheels on the Bus" before she was out of her crib. :)

My sister Stephanie, who photographed Josi and the upcoming dedication service, caught me sharing a tender moment with Nadia as her big sister blessed the socks off of me up front.

I believe there is not much more "holier" in God's eyes than to see a child's hands raised in an act of pure praise and worship. Be still my Mother's heart and know that He is indeed God.

Proud Grandparents look on:

My Dad, Mom, and nephew Adam

Jim's Mom is also enjoying seeing her granddaughter on stage.

Then it was time to dedicate our newest child...Nadia Irina Ferguson.

We took our place on stage with 6 other families and the congregation repeated their vows to pray for us and for Nadia.

We also stated our vows to raise Nadia in a Christian home where we will teach her about her Heavenly Father and guide her according to biblical principles.

Our children's pastor prayed for each family to have the strength to fulfill their vows.

It was a very quick moment but filled with much significance for Jim and I as we take our jobs as parents very seriously. We fall short of parenting in patience in grace many times, so I'm eternally thankful that my Heavenly Father extends His patience and grace to us so we can start again.

Nadia was wearing a beautiful hand-smocked dress made by none other than my Mom--or Nonna as all the grandkids know her. It was not lost on me that just 4 short months ago Nadia had one outfit hanging in her locker at the orphanage that wasn't even "picked out" for just her, let alone lovingly hand-made by a special person in her life.

When my niece saw this photo she remarked that it looks like Nadia is smiling up at heaven. I believe God is smiling right back down at her based on that radiant look on her face.

A tradition in our family is for the great grand-kids to wear a hand-knit gown made by my Nana D who is also smiling down on Nadia from heaven. I miss my Nana and wish she could be here along with my Nana Paul to see this newest addition to our family.

Nana D also made the blanket Nadia's standing on as well as booties and a hat (there was no way those were staying on little Miss Grabby-hands so I didn't even try).

Transitioning to life with 4 kids, homeschooling, and having 2 with special needs has not been easy and I intend to write an honest post about that once I can gather all of my thoughts...but when I reflect on this past Sunday and ALL of the many blessings God has given me, I can't help but smile...

Who couldn't smile when given the privilege of seeing this face every morning!

A Time To Weep

2010-10-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

I'm copying the post of a bloggy friend because she put into words so eloquently the sadness I'm feeling right now over the death of a little girl with Down syndrome that we got to meet at Nadia's orphanage. Please visit this link and pray about your part in making sure that not one. single. more. orphan has to die without ever knowing the love of a family. Today is truly a time to weep:

http://embracinglifesjourneys.blogspot.com/2010/10/time-to-weep.html

Buddy Walk

2010-10-10T18:35:00.000-07:00

Today was our TDSN (Triangle Down Syndrome Network) Buddy Walk. October is Down syndrome awareness month and so the Buddy Walk is an annual event to promote awareness and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. It was also a wonderful venue to promote Reece's Rainbow since it's the only international Down syndrome adoption ministry in the country!

We had the special privilege of having the founder and director of Reece's Rainbow, Andrea Roberts, attend our BW. I didn't realize until I read this blog post :http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/2010/10/andrea-roberts.html that Andrea has met so few of the children she has so tirelessly WORKED and ADVOCATED for to place in families! So, one of the benefits of Andrea and her son Reece making these "guest appearances" is that they get to meet these sweet treasures.

We had Nadia dedicated in church today so Andrea got to come to our church and then to our house afterwards for a quick brunch before heading out to the BW.

(This is a little blurry because both Nadia and Andrea seem to be moving all the time! ha ha)

2 other families who have adopted recently through Reece's Rainbow also came to help work the RR booth by handing out pamphlets and goodies that Andrea ordered for us. How fun it was to see these 3 little ones interacting with their families knowing that 6 short months ago, all 3 were languishing in orphanages. If it weren't for the efforts of Andrea and her team of volunteers, these little ones may never have known the love and acceptance of a family. I shudder to think about that.

From left to right--Andrea, Nadia, Me, Jenn Wojcik holding Milana ("Open Your Heart" blog), and Nikki Esquivel holding Ezequiel ("WANTED" blog).

Andrea asking Reece what he wants for lunch while the little girls wait to put in their order as well. :)

(Either that or she's consoling Reece over the Alabama loss last night. ouch!)

Two of my wonderful helpers! (I don't have a picture of my husband but I could never have pulled off this busy weekend without him!) We call my niece Jessica and my son Allen twins. Can you see why?

Thanks also to Leslie and Kristin who also helped at our table today!

Someone is tired and wondering where her food is. (Either that or she's consoling herself over the Penn State loss--it's ok, honey, every football program has a "rebuilding" year...this is ours!)

My sisters Nicole and Stephanie were SUCH a HUGE help to me today...lugging stuff from the cars to the table, chasing kids around, bringing sno-cones and cold water to me, etc. My Mom (who is sporting the stylish visor) kept an eye on the little ones--all things that needed to be done so I could give my attention to the people coming to get information about RR--thanks again to my terrific family!)

Time to say good-bye to Andrea and Reece. They still had a 5hr. drive back to Maryland.

Please remember to keep Andrea and her family and Reece's Rainbow in your prayers. God is using Andrea and her staff of volunteers in a POWERFUL way to stir the hearts of people to be a part of God's plan in ministering to orphans. There are many ways you can support Reece's Rainbow. Please click on this link to see what part you may have in helping a child find his/her way into a family!
http://www.reecesrainbow.com/newsite/index.php

Who Said...

2010-10-08T17:59:00.000-07:00

...that if you don't brush your teeth for 2 1/2yrs. that you'll get a mouthful of cavities?

As far as we know, Nadia never had her teeth brushed while in the orphanage and when we first met her I noticed quite a few dark spots on a few of her teeth. I was quite sure that they were cavities but with all of our other appointments and therapies, the dentist appointment didn't happen until just the other day.

"You woke me up early and got me all dressed up for the dentist???"

I purposely planned the girls' dental appointments for the same time because going to the dentist has always been a challenge for Josi. I'm talking the 'hold-her-down, biting, spitting" kind of challenge. I always make sure to plan in a nap for Mom on dentist visit days.

She had finally gotten into a pretty good groove over the last year to the point where she didn't shout "No!" when they called her name in the waiting room. But then they decided to put sealants on her teeth. The first appointment went just fine because Josi didn't know what to expect. However, they decided to seal her teeth over 2 visits and so of course, when we went in the 2nd time we were back to square one and Momma REALLY needed a nap after that appointment.

However, with much prayer and a maturing Josi, her most recent dental visit was ok. I figured it wouldn't hurt, though, to play the "you're the big sister so you have to set a good example and show Nadia how 'easy' it is to go to the dentist" card.

Here they are ready to walk out the door.

I'm happy to say that it looks like I'll have one daughter who won't have to be strapped to a papoose board (I switched dentists after that trick), nor will the dentist have to wear complete protective hand and face gear to keep from being bit or spat upon...hopefully!

She did great!

And of course she was a total hit with her hygienist as well as all of the other gals who got to hold her.

Meanwhile, in the other room, Josi is being the perfect role model to her little sister...cool shades and all!

And, if you haven't guessed from my opening line, it turns out that those spots on Nadia's teeth are some type of stain and NOT cavities! Makes me wonder why we make such a fuss over brushing and flossing!

The Answer is Yes!

2010-10-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

First of all let me say that your comments about Nadia's Funny Photo were witty, creative, and totally cracked me up! I especially liked the "Off with her head!" and the "Ukrainian Soup" comment but they all made me laugh out loud! I needed that.

I wrote a post back in March entitled "Will She Like Hockey?" You can read it here--http://seeingtheupsideofdown.blogspot.com/2010/03/will-she-like-hockey.html

Our family has a mini-pack of season tickets for the Carolina Hurricanes and it's something we ALL enjoy and look forward to. So, we were really hoping that the newest Ferguson would also get excited about all things hockey.

Last Friday was our test run as the Hurricanes had an afternoon exhibition game before heading off to Russia and Finland for more pre-season games and the official beginning of their season.

I totally forgot about the cute Hurricanes' cheerleader outfit my sister gave me and so I put Michael's outgrown jersey on her. Is she cute or what???

Ready for some hockey...actually at this point we were all ready for lunch! Who can't get excited over hot dogs, nachos, and barbecue???

So far so good. Nadia is digging this cool folding seat.

She's kind of gotten herself folded in half, tucked in, and ready for a nap at this point.

But then the the players take the ice and the excitement mounts. Music starts playing and the cheering begins.

Nadia was taken a bit by surprise when the initial "stadium shout" went up at the beginning of the game. The tears came and we looked at each other with that "Oh, great...now what?" look.

"Make it all go away Daddy!"

(Just for the record... Josi reacted the same exact way at her first game and it took her an entire season to really acclimate to the noise. We made the mistake of Josi's first game being a Stanley Cup Playoff game against one of our arch-enemies--the Buffalo Sabres--man was it L-O-U-D the entire game!!!)

Daddy ended up taking her out to the concourse for a little bit and by the time she got back she was happy and ready to hang out with Mom and cheer for the 'Canes.

Nadia loves playing with Josi and so she spent quite a bit of time on her lap during the game. (Nadia has started pulling hair so Josi's not too excited about holding her little sister these days.)

The boys are glad that the Hurricanes are winning at this point. The Thrashers ended up tying things up in the last few minutes but we scored in overtime to win the game!

Our four Caniacs!

"Mommy, if we're going to keep doing this could you please get me an outfit that fits properly?"

The only people missing from this first 'Canes outing were my sister and her kids--the true Caniacs who started it all!

So, does Miss Nadia like hockey? I would say the answer is definitely yes!

Fun Foto Friday!

2010-10-01T05:58:00.000-07:00

My friend Lisa dared me to put the above picture of Nadia as my blog header. I've never been one to shy away from a dare so there you have it. However, to make it a Fun Foto Friday (I just made that up--cute huh?)...you need to give that photo a caption. Let's see what you creative folks out there can come up with. My first caption that came to mind was...,"Take me back to Ukraine!" :)

Have fun and enjoy your Friday!!!