The LONG Road Home

Random Happenings...

2009-03-05T12:12:00.035-05:00

I felt compelled to post a few random happenings in our lives over the last few months. If I stop and pay attention long enough, I can see the hand of God growing each one of us along the way. The good news is, no matter how we position ourselves, at our core, we are simply children of God, greatly blessed by our Father.

Aaron finished a fabulous football season with the Columbus Crusaders last fall. He was fortunate to be able to start Varsity as a freshman in his first game and all season... and is really forming quite a talent for audio/video production with his guitar, video camera and the computer. He turns 15 this week... Happy Birthday, Aaron!

Jenna continues to amaze us with her big sister/parenting skills. She also took her last gymnastics class recently (after many years) and has now taken up jogging with her Aunt Kelly and Kris. They plan to run/jog in an upcoming 5K.

Joseph turned 11 back in November, and participated in his first organized and competitive soccer league last fall. He is so fun to watch. He loves to run on the soccer field... and the basketball court. Joe also just graduated from the D.A.R.E. Program, and was given the opportunity to share his essay at the ceremony.

Ellie is also doing basketball this winter. It is great to see her smile as she exercises the gifts God has given her. Ellie plays tenacious defense!... and is full of hustle the entire game. Last summer, she completed her second year on swim team. She loves to compete and simply loves life.

Kate has taken up Ballet, and we are anxiously awaiting her Spring Recital. She is graceful and strong - two gifts that really serve her well. Like all of the kids, she loves her mom and the two are absolutely beautiful together.

Brooke is full of excitement and charm. She has been cheerleading in the Above the Rim program this winter and she loves it. To see her on stage encouraging the players with her big smile is a treat for everyone. She can light up a room with that smile... and she does!

Max? Well Max is trying his hand at gymnastics. He celebrated his 6th birthday in January, and is a hoot to watch flip and roll and tumble around at the gym. He is happy and his face tells us he is about ready to do something that will make us all laugh.

The family just made a trek to Hocking Hills where we took some fun pictures and enjoyed a day in God's beautiful creation. Kris and I are blessed... very blessed... to be able to share in the lives of our children. God knows how to bring us great joy.

None of us deserve it, but the fact remains... God's grace abounds.

Unexpected Gift - More of God's Provision

2008-12-23T11:06:00.002-05:00

Oh how I love to brag on God, and how He chooses to provide for us...

Last week we received a letter from one of the many care givers our children needed when we first brought them home. For almost 18 months, I had been working to establish some financial aid options for the large medical bills we incurred that were not covered by insurance. Three times I had to submit all new (original) documents as the individual helping me left for other employ. Three times the process started over from the very beginning! I tried to control my frustration, and at times felt completely helpless... (I don't do paperwork very well!!)

Before heading off to Brazil, the call came that I needed to start over once again. I gave up any hope that this issue would ever get resolved this side of Heaven. Once again, I submitted the necessary paperwork to the 4th person handling our account. When the letter came last week, I did not want to open it. Here is what it said...

"Nationwide Children's Hospital has reviewed your application and has adjusted your account(s). It is your responsibility to pay $0.00. If you have any questions, please contact our customer service department at ....." I'm not going to call them... but I might drive down and give them a big kiss! Trust, Rest, Wait (See post on Brazil just previous to this one.)

Just when I felt like giving up... God made a wonderful provision! I wonder how close I would have been to giving up over 2000 years ago when He made known another Gift to those He loves. It seems He is always providing. Always. I thank God that He continues to provide in so many ways. This Christmas season I have new reason to celebrate just how practical He is!

Jungle Fever

2008-12-17T16:05:00.008-05:00

Back in November, Aaron and I took a little Father/Son adventure trip into the heart of the Amazon River Basin. We teamed up with The Kubacki Family (kubacki6.spaces.live.com/) and Thirst Relief International (www.thirstrelief.org) to install water filters in remote areas of the jungle, and bring fresh drinking water to these people for the first time ever.

I can say that it was a life-changing experience for me, and that Aaron has spoken of how his perspective has changed as well. Three words kept coming to me on the trip... Trust, Rest, Wait. I am not good at any of the three, but I do sense God taking me to a whole new level of each that I would have been unwilling to go to on my own.

Aaron and I have had the chance to share a few times about our trip, the most recent was today at one of our Lunch & Learns. (www.lunchandlearn.us) I am so thankful that God is faithful and that He continues to fulfill His promises as He stretches me beyond where I am willing to go on my own. I hope my kids catch a glimpse of the adventure that awaits them as they too learn to Trust, Rest & Wait.

Entering the Teen Years

2008-09-25T07:32:00.007-04:00

Jenna became a teenager yesterday. Oh Boy! We dressed up and went to lunch. I had the most beautiful lunch date of anyone in the restaurant!

She's a hoot... so fun to be around. I love watching her grow up. We had a great time... lots of food and a sweet dessert.

I'm excited about her future. God has a place in her heart and Jenna has some amazing gifts that will serve her and others well. I love you, JJ. Many more happy birthdays!!

Power Outages Can Lead to Power Restored

2008-09-18T16:23:00.009-04:00

Hurricane Ike ripped through Central Ohio last weekend. (I never, ever thought I would utter those words in my life.) Trees down, power lines down, houses smashed, vehicles smashed, roofs ripped off... damage, damage, damage! For many in the area power has been out for several days and clean up continues. We were very fortunate... only a small limb came down at our house and our power was off for about 12 hours through the night. Many others were not nearly as fortunate as us.

Got me to thinking... Devastation can rip through a house or a life at any time. Pain and hurt can mount so high that we might wonder if power will ever be restored. In the process, we have choices to make... namely, will we run to the Power Source or will we run away? I have thus far discovered that during those times in life when storms brew up and devastation hits, God is not hiding Himself from me... He is actually wanting me to run to Him. If any storms blew through after your adoption process (or any other events going on in your home) I pray that you are able to find the Source of your power and get restored. I would believe that He is there waiting with open arms to help walk you (and me) through the messy clean up. His Word says He owns the power (Psalm 62:11) and is all about getting it turned back on! Clean up is generally part of the process.

Breaking the Silence

2008-09-11T08:18:00.004-04:00

Greetings! After months of staring at our unchanging blog, I just couldn't stand it anymore. I had to break the silence! So much has transpired since even before we stopped sharing, and life may or may not ever get back to normal. I know we've all heard in the adoption world that life really never returns to "normal;" rather a "new normal" sets in and I believe we are into yet another level of new normal. I can't say that I like it all right now, and I'm sure I never will like everything about my life here on Earth, but I do hold out hope for the future because I know what God's Word promises to all those who believe.

I really don't know how much posting I'll do... maybe, kinda, sorta as the Spirit moves me. Writing has always been somewhat therapeutic for me and I have gotten away from it. You should probably know right up front that I'm not really writing for anyone else. So I guess what I'm saying is that I'm okay with you listening in on whatever God moves me to write.

That's all for now. Maybe I'll find something to share again real soon. Until then...

What a year!

2008-04-16T20:58:00.009-04:00

What a difference a year can make! On April 14th, we celebrated our one year anniversary of landing in America with our three adorable children from Ethiopia. Wow! I remember the look on our children's faces when we first met them at the CWA care center. I remember watching them board the plane for America. I remember watching the look on our bios as they met their new siblings for the first time. From there, the last year is a little bit of a blur.

We started our blog to communicate to loved ones back home during our trip to pick up the kids, and now we feel it is time to post our last post. It has been a good year... a challenging year... a year in which we have seen God provide in magnificent ways... a year of growth... a year of increased trust in the Lord... a year of answered prayer. We are so very thankful that so many have joined us in this journey. Adoption is forever, and we will continue to enjoy our journey. We covet your prayers and thank you for tuning in over the last year. Who knows... maybe someday we will resurrect this blog site with the next significant movement of God in the Long Household. Until then, we will leave you with a few pictures... Many Blessings!

Post Adoption Depression - The Prideful will Fall

2008-03-31T16:13:00.003-04:00

The words came as a complete shock. "I think you may be dealing with Post-Adoption Depression, " Kris said. "No way," I thought! In my typical manner, I ignored my wife's counsel and set in motion several months of the worst emotional experience of my life. I loved my kids... all of them. The old ones and the new ones. What was wrong with me? We just needed to get through this tough time and everything would be great... Listen Up... Post-Adoption Depression Syndrome (PADS) is real!!!

I was short with the kids. I was short with Kris. I was stressed out all the time. I walked around our house with a complete heaviness about me. Everybody suffered. I should have been enjoying all of the "newness" of our family... our "New Normal"... but I wasn't normal. I was distant. I wasn't bonding at the same rate as Kris and the kids. As already stated, I loved them all... I just couldn't keep myself from being stressed out all the time. I couldn't handle what had happened to our beautiful family, and I couldn't handle what had happened to me. The Bible says that pride comes before the fall, and I was falling. It seemed like I was falling for months. Why didn't I seek help? Why didn't I acknowledge Kris's words? So much pain could have been avoided. So much time and energy could have been invested wisely. So many little issues could have been resolved so quickly. But Pride has a way of taking you off track... and I was off track!

But God has brought me around. Much progress has been made. I love my kids, and I really, truly enjoy them. I am bonding with them more all the time. It will soon be a year that our seven children met for the first time. I can't wait to celebrate with them and Kris.

Guys, Husbands, Dads... don't be like me. Don't think you are above PADS. Listen to your wife - she knows! God has brought her to you as a helper. Use her words to wake yourself up to the help you need. (I didn't!) Be patient as you trust God to bring you through. (I didn't even ask Him for help.) He can do it and He will. He wants those kids fully attached to their earthly father so they can experience the love and the nurture and the strength they need to face the world one day. In doing so, they will get a picture of their Heavenly Father that will be accurate and good and right. After all, that's why He placed them in your family.

The following link takes you to an article that can give you some more insight...
http://www.adoptionarticlesdirectory.com/Article/Post-Adoption-Depression---The-Unacknowledged-Hazzard/53

Speaking of Life Saving Interventions

2008-02-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

Formerly, I was on a path to destruction. Relationships that weren't Godly. Activities in my life that did not honor the Lord. I already claimed to be a Christian, but I sure wasn't having a daily walk with the Lord. But God...

God brought into my life and allowed me to marry Kris. He used Kris to teach me and correct me and bless me. I remember sitting in the Living Room five years ago and giving Kris back to the Lord the night before she went in to receive her Pacemaker. Her mother was there. Her sister was there. Our four children were there. We were confident about how God was going to answer our prayers, and how He was going to fulfill the calling He had placed on her life.

This last week, we gathered around Kris again. And this time it was to celebrate. She turned 39 again last week. Her mother was there. Her sister was there. All of our seven children were there. It wasn't anything fancy... Kris doesn't do fancy... but it was special nonetheless. And the coolest thing is... God is still fulfilling His calling on Kris's life, and we are still the beneficiaries of that calling.

I don't know how you do it, Kris. You were meant to be a mom. Of all the people I get to meet, you are by far, the one that is living the life God created you to live. You are a wonderful mom and a great gift to our children! And I thank God for you...

Five Years

2008-02-11T23:22:00.000-05:00

This months marks the five year anniversary of the greatest birthday gift I've ever received. Some girls love diamonds, others chocolate - but me?....The best birthday gift I ever got was my pacemaker.

I lived 25 years of my live with a rather troubling heart issue that could not be solved. As scary as it was, I just assumed that I would never know this side of heaven, what was wrong with me. But to my great surprise, February 2, 2003 the issue was identified and 48 hours later I was the proud owner of my very own titanium pacemaker. Happy Birthday to me.

Tonight I was reading my friend Patrick's blog. It appears they have a five year anniversary of their own to remember. This would be an anniversary of much different kind. On February 11, 2003 Patrick and his wife Jennifer held their 10 month old daughter as she died.

This is a pain that I hope to never understand.

It does cause me to wonder... Why does God need some of us here and some of us there? That He would choose to preserve my life as wife and mother and meanwhile call a lamb home right out of the arms of her parents?

I have always said that would take physical pain any day over emotional pain. The first is over when it's over. The second drags on forever. Because He is the Master weaver and His plan is sovereign and perfect there is peace that can be found in the midst of pain. Patrick and Jen have that peace - their lives are a living testimony of God's healing power.

I have a new sense of appreciation for this pacemaker in my chest. It is a constant reminder of God's intervention in my life.

Sisters

2008-01-30T07:48:00.001-05:00

When Brent and I first started thinking about having children I dreamed of having four boys. I felt pretty confident that is what God would give us so when Aaron was born and the doctor said "IT'S A BOY!" I said "Of course it is."

A year and a half later, when the doctor said "IT"S A GIRL!" I was in shock. What would I do? What would her name be? I don't like pink! Oh, it was an interesting time.

The only thing I knew at that moment was that this baby girl would need a sister.

Sisters are one of God's greatest gifts to me. I have two of them and my relationship with my sisters cannot be explained - it can only be experienced. We can have intimate conversations without having to explain details of our lives. We understand each other unlike any other relationship on earth. My daughter would need this.

"IT'S A GIRL!" said the doctor three years later. "Of course it is" I responded.

One of my greatest pleasures is to watch my girls (4 of them now!) together. They really enjoy each other and it is exciting to watch them grow in their relationships. One of my famous lines when I see them off giggling together is..."I love sisters."

In honor of sisters.........

3 sisters holding 3 sisters
(pre-adoption photo)

My pioneer girls

The Truth About Birthdays

2008-01-22T00:13:00.000-05:00

Max just had his first American birthday. He thinks it was also his last. It is so interesting to me when I discover things we assume the kids understand. Who would have thought I would need to explain that a person has LOTS of birthdays - one every year, in fact.

Max didn't know that. He was so very excited about his special day - but before the day was even half over he got real sad. I asked him what was wrong and he said "Tomorrow is not my birthday." I said "No sweetheart, but TODAY is your birthday and we still have your party tonight!" Max sadly retorted, "But then no more birthdays."

I explained the way birthdays work. He was quite relieved to know the truth. It also cleared up for him how everyone else got to be so old. We had noticed that he was very confused about that. He would ask different siblings throughout the week..."Jenna, how do you get to be 12?" He is so happy to know that he will get to be 12 one day, too.

We are blessed to be able to make such a fuss on birthdays. In so many other parts of the world they have much bigger things to worry about than remembering the day a child was born.

In honor of our five year old I will attempt to limit myself to five things I love about Max:

1. Max is hilarious. I have no idea how he comes up with his stuff but he keeps us in stitches

here.

2. Max is teachable. He wants to obey and please us - when he needs corrected he gets

quiet, drops his head, sheds a tear or two, nods his head, and obeys.

3. Max has a smile that lights up the room.

4. Max loves books. He memorizes his favorites and recites parts of them throughout the

day.

5. Max is thriving in a family. It is plain to see that he enjoys the benefits of being the

youngest, but he still wants us to "get a baby" from Ethiopia.

Some fun photos of our yummy 5 year old...

Love Hurts

2008-01-18T07:36:00.000-05:00

Many of you know that it is our Brooke who has struggled the most with losing her birth home, parents and previous life. She has grieved and we have greived for her. The other night when I was kissing her goodnight we had a very sweet conversation.

Brooke: "Mom, I wish I was in your tummy when I was a baby."

Mom: "You do? Why Honey?"

Brooke: "Because then I wouldn't miss my Ethiopia mom."

How does her six year old brain think of such things? It makes me love her more which I did not think possible. She is learning, at too young of an age, that love can be very painful.

Expectations

2008-01-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

This is how we envisioned school at our house when we set the room up last August.

In reality this is how school looks most days.

Expections are so often not met. It was not realistic for me to think I was ever going to be able to have 7 kids work quietly at a single table doing school all morning.

The greatest thing is that although expectations are often not fullfilled, they are often exceeded. When I get my perspective right (this often needs to be self-corrected) and look around, I am tickled by what I see. Two kids doing school work under the table. (who said the "on" was better than "under"?) Two kids cuddled together reading. One man-boy happily improving his typing skills. Yet two others finding a quiet spot in their bedroom. (no pictures because I actually didn't know where they were until too late.)

Then there are the times when I feel like nothing is getting done. This happens more often than I care to admit. Again, when I take a step back and evaluate what is going on - even then I am often not dissapointed.

Here are some "out takes" from our home school days gone by....

This is what happens when you let two ornry boys go off alone for "Buddy Time." (Those are Aaron's pants that Max is "wearing".)

These beautiful ladies were having some quiet reading time and instead got a complete make over.

Joseph has had a rude awakening about family dynamics when he became a younger brother. As Aaron puts it..."I have waited 13 years to do this!" Unfortunately, I have to break them up to get back to business at least once a day.

While expectations are good - flexibility is better...especially when you are a homeschooling family of nine.

Christmas Time!

2007-12-27T21:36:00.000-05:00

Wow - What happened? Was that Christmas? Oh, yes the paper fog has lifted and I can nearly see through the piles of new treasures that have found their way into our home. To think if we didn't limit ourselves to three gifts per child....

Christmas was wonderful - as was expected. I love Christmas at our house. It has always been a great low-key day considering it is - well...Christmas. This year we even added three children, three stockings, and nine more gifts under the tree but managed to keep the energy level satisfactory.

Brent's family is out of town and we get to celebrate with them at a later date. My family is quite small - only two sisters, one of whom lives too far away and the other who gets to bring her husband over for the morning fun. My mom is a welcomed staple at family gatherings and I am the luckiest girl I know in that she is a wonderful guest. She has never said anything but supportive and uplifting things about the condition of my home, my children, or my food. Thanks so much for that, mom.

Hope your Christmas was wonderful, too.

Zeros

2007-12-13T13:40:00.000-05:00

I have been having some fun with Ellie's math lately.

Math is an area that I lack not only interest but also experience. We use what I think to be the greatest math curriculum of all time, Math-U-See and I am really understanding math concepts for the first time! (A+ for Kris!)

Last week Ellie was learning how to write enormous numbers in place value notation. I "learned" at an early age to be very intimidated by lots of zeros - and I saw Ellie beginning to feel the same way. I don't want my daughters growing up thinking math is for boys - or that is it is something to fear, so I pretended to be excited about it. Getting excited about it meant that I needed to be darn sure that I understood how to do it, too.

And so my story begins.................... After a week of practicing this concept I found myself "thinking" in terms of place value notation.

For instance:
*There are 10+2 months in the year.
*I spent 100+40+7 dollars at the toy store last week.
*There are 100,000+80,000+6,000+300+50+2 miles on our van.

And here is the kicker:
* There are 4,000,000 +600,000 orphans in Ethiopia.

That is a lot of zeros. I was sitting at the eye doctor the other day waiting for my daughter's appointment to be over and my mind was thinking of the 4,000,000 + 600,000 orphans in Ethiopia. I wondered if other people get intimidated by lots of zeros like I used to. Do people really understand HOW MANY children that is - living without families? No mom or dad? No home or bike or dog? I started to break the number down into more palatable increments.

I thought to myself...suppose there were only 9 orphans? Or maybe 60+2 orphans? What if in my neighborhood, or city, state, there were 800+30+7 orphans? That is a ton of children growing up with out the love of a family. But in Ethiopia there are so many orphans that the reality gets lost in all of the zeros. I wondered if people would help more if there were actually fewer. Maybe if people could wrap their brain around a number it would be more real? I don't have the answer - I was just wondering.

My fun with 3rd grade math concepts has made me even more grateful for the three beautiful, smart, funny, happy children that have joined our family this year. I thank our God of miracles that they are no longer one of the zeros.

This photo was taken the day our children learned they had a family waiting for them in America.

Pass Through

2007-12-12T14:04:00.000-05:00

We had just loaded bags of clothes into our van. They were on there way to the Salvation Army drop box. This was the 3rd or 4th or 5th time we had done this this year. It got me to thinking... "how much we have been able to give away this year for others in need when it is really our family being blessed by others giving us stuff."

Since we have had children, it has been our practice to take in and pass out clothes that our kids needed and then didn't need. Your family may experience the same thing. Each year, we have been able to set aside certain items and contribute a few bags to those less fortunate. But this year, it has been overwhelming! Since our adoption in April, it seems we have been blessed on every side in an overflowing, abundant manner. We have been overwhelmed with canned goods and dry goods that exceeded our storage ability, so we passed some through to others (10-15 bags full) that could use them and might even need them more than us. It hasn't stopped! We have been overwhelmed with gifts of clothing, hand-me-downs, in wonderful condition at such a level that not only do our 7 children all have boots and coats for the winter, and clothes for the next 2-3 stages of growth... we also were able to pass 15-20 bags (conservative estimate; hefty size) through our hands into the hands of others who had need. Isn't God amazing?

Only He could figure out how to overflow our cup while we were opening our house up to total strangers. Only He could use us to provide for others while we were needing provision. Only He owns a cattle on a thousand hills, and allows some of that provision to pass through our hands into the lives of those around us. As a man, and the leader of my house, and the provider for my wife and children... I am learning to trust Him. His provision far exceeds my ability. I'm excited about letting more pass through!

Seasons

2007-12-07T07:22:00.000-05:00

Winter has arrived.

Whoever said our Ethiopian children will not like cold weather has never met my kids. I am constantly saying "Sweetheart, aren't you cold? Why don't you go put on more clothes?" I look at my kids running around the house in bare feet and I shiver. This must be another unfortunate sign that I am aging. As if I needed another reminder.

At precisely 7:10am on Wednesday I heard the pitter patter of little feet turn into a herd of the masses running down the stairs to announce "SNOW!" Then right outside they went, pajamas and all. Evidence as shown.

They didn't make it long out there in their pj's. But Joseph and Ellie came in, got decked out in their winter gear, and played for three hours. Great example of the fun homeschooling can be. I decided to just go with it - and we actually got school done in a "cut in paste" format which was a fun little shake-up.

By evening I lost count of how many hours the kids had all been outside. It was a great first snow fall. Seasons are so refreshing!

Men I Love

2007-11-30T08:37:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving this year was amazing. We had some priceless family time with both of my sisters and their families. We have NEVER been all together before. Never. We have been together, in smaller groups - but never all at the SAME time. It was so wonderful.

What I realized was this....There are a lot of very handsome men in my life. That may sound shallow of me - which I tend to be from time to time, but just look and see for yourself.

Look at this guy - I get to be married to him! He is one of the good ones.

My oldest is turning into a gorgeous young man. He is so much fun to be with. I love, love, love, hanging out with him. (Oh, and my dog, Quincy - if you know me at all, you know what I think of this guy. Woman's best friend.)

Quite handsome for a boy of 10. For more good stuff on this guy, visit my last post.
Because I share not a single genetic chromosome with this little character, I can say without conceit that he is one of the most gorgeous creations God has made.

This is my nephew. God has marked this guy for something amazing- you watch. His gorgeous face is the least of his attributes - so you can only imagine what's on the inside.

I love all these Men. There are actually two missing from my list here but out of all due respect for their humble personalities I have not plastered their pictures on this blog. I will try to add them in a group shot sometime just so you can see that I have two very handsome brothers in law as well!

Ten Again

2007-11-27T21:46:00.000-05:00

I love that our Ethiopian kids have been with us seven months now. I love it for many reasons.

First of all, the transition is hard - and we have transitioned.
Secondly, half a year has passed and that means half of a years events have been successfully processed.
And third, the kids have begun to share more with us about their past. This is a great sign of attaching and bonding that we adoptive parents wait for.

Joseph had a birthday this month. He was ecstatic about his special day as he has been in our family long enough to see four siblings celebrate birthdays. This event prompted a conversation about age that we have waited a long time to have.

It appears our suspicions were accurate. It was clear to us in Ethiopia that Joseph was not eight. We actually aged him a full year at our readoption. That put him at nine. He has just shared with us that he was ten when he entered the orphanage. That was a year ago. Well, he just had his first American birthday and he is now ten - again.

We love our son - no matter his age. We are just happy to see that he is trusting us as his parents. It is good.

In honor of our Ten-Again son, here are 10 things I love about Joseph...

1. Joseph is an excellent eater.
2. And he freely shows his gratitude for good cooking!
3. He is a very hard worker around the house. His specialties are cleaning the garage and van.
4. He adores his Uncle Charlie and wants to be with him a l l t h e t i m e !
5. Joseph is a great soccer player.
6. He is very diligent with his school work.
7. He loves babies and really wants one around here!
8. He loves church and memorizing verses for AWANA.
9. Joseph has a beautiful singing voice.
10. Joseph is a happy, happy boy!

The "New Normal"

2007-11-12T06:54:00.000-05:00

We have hit a "new normal" around here. I am grateful for this because now I know what I have to work with. We have some work to do with refining relationships, developing self-control, and increasing patience. With homeschooling I get the whole day to work on this stuff. It is not for the faint of heart let me tell you. But by the grace of God, we keep plugging away, and it is good. Very good.

Each October, it has become our tradition, to go to Hocking Hills. People who say Ohio is flat and boring have never visited Hocking Hills. It is beautiful - including 9 different State Parks that cover over 9000 acres of God's handiwork.

This year was extra fun as it was our first with our Ethiopian kids. It would be an understatement to say that they loved it. We had a great day on so many levels. The kids all enjoyed the freedom of exploration, the stimulation of great exercise, and a day off from school.

Brent and I enjoyed largely the same things but one thing that we didn't expect provided the most enjoyment...

Teamwork. Our kids true colors shined this day. They ran together, laughed together, and worked together. A few of the hikes we took had some tricky spots. It was a huge blessing to watch the kids help each other. They would look around for the more challenging climbs, then plan together for how they would execute a successful route. One would go first, turn and help the next - while leaving a strong one on the ground to help with the lift. All the while, I could cruise smoothly behind, taking the safer route, and watch my cute kids.

Our "new normal" is louder, busier and crazier. But we knew that would be the case when we started down this road of growing our family. It is a good life, thanks be to God.

Homesick

2007-10-26T15:58:00.000-04:00

When I was a little girl I went through a long period of time when I could not spend the night at friends’ houses. I suffered terribly from homesickness. I would often muster up the courage to try – and things would be going along well until bed time. When the sun went down and I knew bedtime was coming the feelings started. My stomach would be in knots and the fears came.

I remember one night I was attempting to spend the night at my next door neighbor’s house. We were camping out on the back porch. I was lying there in my sleeping bag staring at my house and tears were just pouring. All the lights were on at home and soon I found myself jumping out of my sleeping bag, hoping the fence and running through my front door into my mom’s arms. That is where I wanted to be – with my mom.

My little Brooke is homesick. Her days are pretty good but at night I see the look in her eyes. I know that look – I have felt something similar. Last night was particularly difficult for her. She told me that she has been dreaming a lot about her Ethiopian mom and the dreams are bad.

Here are some of my daughters’ fears:
- that her mom got eaten by an alligator
- that her mom got very sick and died
- that her mom does not know where she is

and the worst of all…

- that her mom forgot about her

No six year old child should have to carry such a burden. It kills me to know that she is suffering like this. I look at her face and the grief she bears and I cry because there is not a single thing I can do to help her.

When I was little and felt homesick I got to go home. Within moments I would be in my own bed safe and content. That will never be possible for Brooke. All I can do is hold her and tell her that her Ethiopian mom loves her very much and she will never forget her.

One day her comfort will be restored. Our heavenly Father loves her more than either her Ethiopian mom or her American mom. The process is just painful.

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

One Thing I Love About You...

2007-10-17T13:55:00.000-04:00

Today is Brent's birthday - his first birthday with seven children. Also our Ethiopian kids' first opportunity to see how we can honor our parents on their special day.

This morning, while I (Kris) read about William Penn and the Pennsylvania Colony (1600's history), the kids created beautiful works of birthday art for their father. In addition to a picture each child wrote one reason why they love their dad. Here are the results:

"One thing I love about you, dad is......"

Aaron -"your mobility with a bad back"

Jenna - "the way you always wait patiently until we can pray."

Joseph - "that you teach me about Jesus."

Ellie - "that you are a good dad. I am special to have you as a dad."

Kate - "your great big bear hugs!"

Brooke - "that you are silly and that you love Jesus."

Max - "that you are very strong. You could kill Goliath."

We also enjoyed Brent's favorite Oatmeal Cake and a few token gifts.

Happy Birthday, Brent... One thing I love about you is that you always put us first. Always. I watch you over and over sacrifice your time, energy, and wants for us.

Thank you.

"And People Ask Why We Adopted"

2007-10-01T07:20:00.000-04:00

Max: "Mom, in Etopia we don't wake up our mom to go potty in the night. We just go by ourselves."

Mom: "Why don't you wake up your mom?"

Max: "Because we don't HAVE any moms."

(My stomach dropped and the reality of my sons' past hit me again. I picked him up, gave him a huge squeeze, and said...)

Mom: "In America you can wake up your mom."

I often feel like the blessing is all mine.

.

Pancake Monday

2007-08-28T13:44:00.000-04:00

There's really nothing quite like a short stack of pancakes to start your week off right. A big batch of pancake batter measured out in over 30 pancakes, cooked on an electric griddle and served with butter and syrup and milk or O.J. Of course, there is a pot of coffee for the cook (me) and the resident computer communicator (Kris emailing her new adoption buddies and/or old friends) in the other room. I usually try to schedule myself to be home on Monday mornings... no meetings, no clients, no distractions! And while this is not always possible, we all look forward to this time. Some weeks, Pancake Monday actually takes place on Tuesday.

Now that school has officially started, mornings are even crazier than they used to be. It is good that we attempt to take this time every Monday morning to count and make sure there are still 9 of us in the family. It is quite possible that one of us could have been lost somewhere in the weekend activities. So far, we have all been present for Pancake Monday. Kris had the kids start reciting John 3:16 before we eat of the stacks in front of us, and then we end Pancake Monday breakfast with a devotional. Here's what we've learned thus far...

Kids need pancakes!
Moms need pancakes!
Dads need pancakes!

And the family needs this time to look forward to. There's some interesting conversation that happens during Pancake Monday that might not happen otherwise. Mixing pancakes with Wisdom, and Trustworthiness, and Boldness, and Diligence, and Courage, and Love is a great recipe for Life. Can someone please pass the syrup...!

Post Adoption - Apples & Attaching

2007-07-16T11:37:00.000-04:00

When I was growing up on our farm we had an apple tree that produced different types of apples. I could never figure out "how" this tree was able to do this. It had only one trunk which meant it had only one root system. But when it came time for the apples to ripen, different apples would ripen at different times on different parts of the tree. At least this is what I remember!!! I also recall learning that branches from different types of apple trees had been grafted into the original tree, and through the same root system and trunk system, these different branches could still remain alive and still produce their respective apple fruit. But each apple was good for some specific purpose. My mom knew exactly which apples made the best pie or dumplings, which apples made the best applesauce, which apples made the best apple butter, etc. She knew exactly what to do with each kind of apple.

I think I'm learning that adoption... post-adoption... is a lot like that old apple tree. Sometimes we get Red Delicious. Sometimes we get Yellow Delicious. Sometimes we get Crabapple!!!! And each type of apple (parent and/or child & attitude wrapped together in his or her own skin) has its own unique value and contribution to the overall fruit production. In our efforts to work through the post-adoption process, all of us... all nine of us... have to learn how each of us continue to bear fruit and grow and mature while drawing our source of life from one trunk and one root system. God created the family! He has ordained and appointed the family as the central unit of where we are to grow and mature and learn to bear fruit. He constantly reminds me that He grafted me into His family, and that He has the life sustaining power to feed me and grow me even though I used to draw from a different source. When He made life available to me by adopting me as a son, the resources He gathered through His root system and His trunk were more than enough to help me grow.

If the original tree and the newly grafted -in branches had any feelings at all, I couldn't imagine the PAIN they had to go through to adjust to the new life they suddenly found themselves involved in. I need to remember this when I look at the original branches and the new branches that now make up our tree. We now have a new tree! And while it is very tough, I do see growth spurts and new fruit being produced in ALL of the branches. Praise the Lord!

God's Provision - God's Call

2007-06-28T09:26:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, God provided all of these dry goods for our pantry. Cans of fruits & vegetables, tubs of peanut butter, boxes of Girl Scout Cookies, boxes of Mac & Cheese, Ramen Noodles, Pasta and much more. We are overwhelmed and humbled at God's provision.

Today, God called Max to be a chef - apparently someone needs to prepare all of that food.

And if we think this is just a coincidence, remember that in Scripture and throughout all of History, God's call and God's provision go hand in hand. O, how desperately I need to remember this! (See Reality Check post) Thank You, Lord.

Memories of Michindoh '07

2007-06-27T22:50:00.001-04:00

Reality Check!

2007-06-11T10:06:00.000-04:00

(Disclaimer #1: I try not to live my life based on pole results, nor did I start this BLOG in order to win any popularity contests.)
(Disclaimer #2: I have no idea where this entry is going.)
(Disclaimer #3: I have not had any desire to write for several weeks.)
(Disclaimer #4: The thoughts and views expressed below are mine alone.)
(Disclaimer #5: I already know in advance that God is teaching me through this entire process!!!!)

This adoption stuff is hard. I see my wife beaten down almost every day by ungrateful kids who continually demand more. "I want braces too, mom!" "I want a new bicycle." "Why did ________ get new shoes, and I didn't?" "I want __________!!!!" "I want ________ !" We have been asked if the honeymoon stage has come and gone... and I say, "WHAT HONEYMOON STAGE!?" It seems as soon as we got to America, our kids were full of demands. After one particular incident, I sat down with our oldest adopted son and asked where he learned so much about America, and where he learned that you can have/get anything you want in America. "Film" was his simple, one-word answer. It seems that through watching TV and videos and movies from America, the kids have come to expect that they can get and will get everything and anything they want in America. Well, not in this house you won't! Reality check! Let the attaching/bonding begin...

Parenting children from birth allowed us to shape their belief system right from the beginning. There are obviously all kinds of parenting styles in the world today. It has not been our style to raise our children to believe they are the center of the universe. We have adopted children that already had a beginning. We weren't there. We are now! Teaching and training older children to suddenly believe differently and behave differently is a full-time job. Teaching three older siblings that have a complete family history, sibling rivalry, language barrier, cultural differences, birth order shakeup, etc., make each day feel like a week. And while I struggle to work enough to pay the bills on time, my wife bears the brunt of this exhausting labor of love. She sometimes doesn't feel like it, but she is really good at this. She is really amazing. I see her heart, and I wonder how she does it. She still needs all the encouragement she can get. Reality check! Pray for Kris...

Speaking of work... Lord knows we need the revenue... thus far the medical bills are rapidly approaching $10,000. Only one of 4 minor surgeries has taken place. We haven't gotten the bill for that one yet... the bills we have seen so far are just for the assessment work and prep work. How in the world are we supposed to cover these costs? Too bad I didn't think to bring these kids in illegally... I could have saved thousands of dollars in fees - VISA, Passport, USCIS, court fees, adoption fees - and hours of time running around parking at meters to pay good money to get papers stamped and notarized and authenticated. I could have gotten tons of free medical care from what I understand as well. Looks like I missed a "golden opportunity" right there. Reality check! I am considering sending an invoice to Congress... I wonder if any of them will read this entry...

I used to think I was a decent father. I'm not so sure any longer. Why is it that I feel I am failing in almost every area of fatherhood? I remember what it felt like in athletics when some team came along and just beat the crap out of us. I remember what it felt like to get the wind knocked out of me. I remember what it felt like to lose and to lose badly. I never wanted that taste in my mouth again. I taste that right now! There are days when I really feel like I am losing. There are days when I feel like I am losing the peace and stability we once had in the house. Most days I realize that I am not doing a good job - my part - as a husband and father. I can't think of a day since we have been home that I haven't been upset with the way the kids have treated me or my wife... or someone else. I've never done real well with kids that whine and complain and disrespect parents and other adult authority figures. Reality check! I wonder when we'll taste victory again...

(Disclaimer #6: It has been over 2 weeks since I wrote the above paragraphs.)

We've had some victories lately! There's been a lot of bonding and attachment happening. Praise the Lord! I have seen God work in our family in amazing ways. God is mostly working on me. I have discovered that I am really good at paying lip service to "trusting God." How often do I say that I trust God? How often do I counsel others to trust God. How often do I model to my 7 children that I really trust God? How often do I model to Kris that I am leading this house by trusting God? Since the heat of summer has come, we are getting some good swimming in at the pool across the street. Four of the kids can swim really well... sort of like fish! Three of the kids can't at all. They cling and grab and thrash about, gasping as they barely keep their mouth above water. But I have watched each one of them start to trust me in the water a little more each time we go... and I am seeing them start to relax a little. And we know what happens when we start to relax in dad's arms. Reality check! I haven't scratched the surface on trusting God...

Father, help me relax in You... help me to clearly see and understand how much You love our family. Help me to keep my head above water. Help me curb my anger and cynicism. Help me see clearly what You are doing. Help me be a witness for You. Help me trust You more! Help me relax in You. Thank You for the food that was delivered to our house today. Thank you for the small discount on one of the recent bills. Thank You for the gift of church camp for some of our children, and Kris. Thank You for our local church body, that gives so much and cares so much and prays so much for us. Help me relax in You. Help me have meaningful conversations with the various medical providers about how we are trusting You throughout this process. Help me have meaningful conversations with Kris. Help me continue to serve our clients above and beyond their expectations. Thank You for the wonderful encouragement at the recent home-school conference. Thank You for the gift of educating our children at home. Help us figure out how to schedule and structure our school days. Help us make sure we are making You the focal point in our school and our children's education. Help me relax in You. Help me learn to trust...

A Picture Paints a 1000 Words... Two Pictures say it all!

2007-05-22T21:28:00.001-04:00

I start my diet tomorrow!!!

You know its coming but...

2007-05-08T20:54:00.000-04:00

In the Crusader Football program, like any good football program, the offensive coaches spend a lot of their time teaching the quarterback and the other offensive players how to recognize a blitz. Depending on game situation, you know its coming, but you just have to identify from where? Sometimes it comes from unlikely places and in ways that force an immediate decision... "Does the quarterback stand in the pocket and deliver the ball or does he scramble?"

Last Sunday afternoon, Aaron had a guitar recital and we were blessed to attend as a family... as a full family of 9! The recital was held at an assisted living facility and was packed full of piano players and guitar players, their families and friends, and residents of the facility. We had a great time, the music was wonderfully pleasant, and it was nice just to relax a little with the kids. Soon after Aaron played a sweet rendition of Amazing Grace and the recital was officially over, a sweet little 90 something summoned me over near her. It seemed that she had something she wanted to share... it was then I recognized a blitz coming!!

"What is all of this?" she asked. "All of what?" I replied. "All of this black-white stuff!" she scoffed. "Excuse me!?" I said. "What are you doing with them people?" she asked. "Why don't you leave them to their own people?" "We are their people!" I retorted. "We love them... they're our kids." "This is wrong!" she said. "You think so?" I asked. "They belong with their own people!" she said again. "What's wrong with it?" I asked. ... and then I saw the opening... "Isn't it a good thing that someone loves them? Don't you have someone that loves you? ... and as quickly as the blitz came, it was over. God allowed me to stand in the pocket.

I have no idea about the ultimate outcome of this dialogue. I don't know anything about this little 90 something that needs help getting in and out of her chair and can barely walk with a walker. I don't know what she is thinking, or what beliefs and prejudices have been dumped into her head. I don't know if anyone loves her. And then in my mind I hear Aaron playing Amazing Grace. It is only through God's amazing grace that we have the capacity to love at all. It is only by God's grace that we are able to let go of our prejudices. James 1:27 says, "This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." I don't even know her name.

Taking a Thorough Assessment

2007-04-30T21:28:00.000-04:00

Last Friday morning, Kris and I took the three new Longs to the International Adoption Clinic for their (very thorough) health examination. Sparing you the exact details, let's just say that it was very thorough. It was nice to have an interpreter present to help explain to the kids what was happening and why mom & dad would just sit and watch these people (in white coats) poke and prod and prick. On top of that, we discovered that 2 of the 3 were in the middle of an outbreak of Chicken Pox. And then a discovery that actually encouraged us to do a really complete "spring clean" as an extra precaution. (Just in the nick of time we believe!) This morning, we completed the first round of appointments with a hearing assessment and a quick psychological evaluation. (Although he hesitated, the psychologists did not yet think Kris and I were crazy!!!) There will soon be vision tests and teeth pulling, and other assorted invasions for these kids. While driving back home afterwards I got to thinking... this whole adoption thing is absolutely amazing! How do we explain to the kids that we are doing this because we love them and we want to properly care for them. It's not as if we will send them back if we find something that's unpleasant! Actually, that will just help us love them more. And then it hit me...How God uses this real life analogy to teach me more about Him. He is truly Amazing!

You see, years ago God adopted me into His family. Before the adoption was complete, and in His own way, He had done a very thorough assessment and He knew what I was full of. He loved me too much to leave me in that condition, and even though I did not completely understand what was happening, He started the process of "spring cleaning" in me. I was full of parasites and other things the world had to offer and they were all eating away at my insides. But God had compassion on me... He wasn't doing this to see if I was worth keeping... He had already made up His mind that He was keeping me! That was planned long before I was ever in my mother's womb. The adoption was final and God was not surprised with what He found in me... I'm thinking He expected it to be there. He was big enough to deal with it and get it out. His plan included that as well... in fact, it included full health and complete restoration!

In the adoption world, "Disruption" is the word used to describe an adoption gone bad. An example of a disruption would be when the new parents decide (for whatever reason) that they no longer want this new child (children) in their home and they change their minds. While the adoption was final, it really wasn't, and the kid (kids) are once again removed from a home only to be placed in another... hopefully... maybe.

And so you see what God is teaching me through all of this. God doesn't disrupt! Ever! When He brings someone into His family... and all come through adoption now... He never ever disrupts. He has promised to be our Father forever. He has promised to meet our every need. He loves us and has compassion on us in spite of the junk inside of us. He continually pours out His grace and mercy on us even though we don't always follow His ways. For me, this builds hope and strength and courage and peace and stability. This allows me to flourish and develop as I am meant to develop. God is forever cleaning me and washing me and caring for me! He is an AWESOME Father! I pray all 7 of our kids find that hope and strength and courage and peace and stability that comes through the Father.

Do you know Him? Have you experienced His love and affection? Even though you might need a little cleaning right now, have you allowed Him to speak to you about your potential in Him. Do you trust Him? Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but through me." There's an ADVOCATE that helps in your adoption... Have you allowed Him to wash you clean? Is it time for a thorough assessment?

Back to Work in the Basement

2007-04-27T20:41:00.000-04:00

Now that we are getting settled... at least we think we are getting settled... it is back to work on some home projects started before the trip. Although Aaron has been in his new bedroom for several weeks by now, we still have lots of work to do to finish out the rest of the basement for our new rec room. I'm getting bored with the whole thing, so I thought I would bring in a new construction team to help. The picture below sums it all up!

True Confessions about the Bottom Line

2007-04-25T16:16:00.000-04:00

Okay, it is time for me to get "real." By vocation, God has me in the marketplace as a business consultant, trainer and executive coach helping bring a solid, biblical foundation to people and organizations so that they can discover the true purpose of their lives and businesses. At some point in the relationship, I always get some form of the question... "Yes, I understand that is what God says, but what about the bottom line?" Along the way, it seems that God has blessed many of these clients with an increased bottom line... AND with increased peace and time and balance and hope and faith and trust. For some the results have been truly miraculous and mind-boggling. So what does this have to do with adoption and our family?

I can only speak for myself - not my wife, or any other person (husband or wife, dad or mom) that might be considering adoption. Somewhere we have to take into consideration the "bottom-line." If your household is anything like my household, you don't have $20,000 or $30,000 or $40,000 just lying around taking up space, waiting to be invested in adoption costs. I didn't have the bottom-line I "needed" to afford these kids a new home and a new chance at life. I was working to provide for and meet the needs of the 4 already at home.

Adoption is not cheap. It comes with a high cost. And the bottom-line is that those costs continue to increase once the adoption fees are paid. Bottom-line is that getting them home is not even close to half the financial struggle. My wife has a favorite saying... "Life is expensive!" The reality of adoption... "Adoption is expensive!" ... and it is just a part of our life. Bottom-line is that there are 7 kids in our house that need a chance at life... (Not all that life has to offer since so much of what life has to offer is undesirable...) but a chance at life nonetheless. Of course, we are only in the early stages of our adopted kids joining our bio kids at home. It will only get more expensive. School assessments and curriculum (we home school), dental appointments, doctor appointments, gas, groceries, water bills, toilet paper, hair care products (I'm thinking random head shavings could become common practice!!), did I mention bananas by the bunches, the list goes on. And the bottom-line is that all of this has to be paid for with actual currency of some sort. I actually get upset every now and again at just how much it does cost to live in this world and raise a family.

But God... I so much love the many passages of Scripture that start out this way... You see, the bigger bottom-line is that God is able. God knows it is not cheap and God knows that it will only get more expensive. There are no secrets with God. God knows that most of us do not have the finances for adoption costs collecting dust in the corner of our dresser. Bottom-line is that I am not able to provide for 7 children... But God! Bottom-line is that (this is real to Kris and I) we had absolutely no way to come up with the upfront costs for adoption... But God! Bottom-line is that I have no idea how we will afford these kids moving forward... But God! Bottom-line is that God has never made a calling on anyone's life without first having made provision for that calling. Who does God borrow from? God owns the cattle on a thousand hills... God knows all of His children by name... God knows and has named the stars that He hung in Heaven. God will use any means He desires to make the provision for the adoption you are considering.

Bottom-line - I was correct and am still correct... I have no way to pay for or afford this adoption and I have no way to continue to meet the financial needs that are coming. But God! Bottom-line... neither do you, and if you let that stop you, you will fall into the same trap that so many have fallen into that will leave nothing done in the life of 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 children. God is in the business of growing His children, and generally that means that I need to learn to trust Him more. And that's the bottom-line!

Turning 7 and 911

2007-04-21T21:16:00.000-04:00

Today was full of activity, as everyday has been thus far. We had house projects to start/complete! We had lots of beautiful sunshine to enjoy! We had lots of family activities going on all day. Two significant items stand out...

1) Our sweet Kate turned 7 years old today. What a day it was for her. Two new brothers and a new sister that she just met last Saturday for the first time. It doesn't seem that long ago that we first met Kate when the doctor handed her to us. What a joy she is! The party included Grandma and Aunt Kelly & Uncle Charlie, and a friend from next door. Chicken grilled just right and hamburgers also. Ice cream cake - 2 more friends joined in with us for this part - and everyone signing happy birthday. What a day!

2) Joseph is learning his numbers somewhat. He was attempting some math earlier in the week. It seems he is a quick learner- today he was playing with the phone and punching in some numbers much like one would do on a calculator. Immediately after he placed the phone on the table, it rang back, so I answered. The 911 operator asked me about the emergency that was just called in! It seems that she was not able to understand our little Ethiopian who had just dialed 911!!!! After explaining the situation and telling her how sorry we were, Kris had to repeat the same story for the nice policeman when he arrived. I think the math lesson was very effective. He appears ready to move ahead with the next lesson.

Home Again... First Days

2007-04-18T11:36:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures of our first days back home. God has been so faithful with our safe travels and new adjustments. And we have the reassurance that He will no stop being faithful anytime soon!

Top to Bottom:

Joseph beside his new bicycle - he couldn't wait to ride it and learned how in about 15-20 minutes. Now he's off around the block 15-20 times a day!
Jenna is helping Brooke on Max's new bike. Be patient my child... it will come!
Former little sister turned big sister Kate holds her napping little brother, Max
Ellie and Max as his Sunday afternoon nap continued. Lucky guy!
Aaron gives Brooke a ride as Joseph investigates his new surroundings.

If I can get this video thing figured out, I will be posting some video soon to share more of what our first days have looked (and sounded) like. Meals have been an adventure, not knowing what foods the little ones will eat, and not knowing for sure how to communicate that they must try what Kris places in front of them. Joseph as been a tremendous helper as his English is good enough to help us in this way. We are working to establish and settle into a routine. Be patient my children... it will come! (God keeps reminding me... He must know about my patience, or lack thereof.) Blessings to all!

Coming Home...

2007-04-13T08:15:00.000-04:00

Today, we are coming home. What an experience this has been! We are so grateful to God for His many gifts to us. Kris and I, and our new kids are anxious to be home in America, and yet we are sad to leave. One of the last stops we made was for a little swimming today. (See Photos.) We are tired and worn out, and yet we have energy that doesn't end as God continues to bless us with so many wonderful people that take such good care of us. This has been a trip that is hard to describe in the short moments we have on the computer. More details will come as we settle in at home. God Bless!

More Pictures

2007-04-12T12:47:00.000-04:00

We had just had lunch... our first American meal away from the Guest House since arriving... Pizza and French Fries... the kids ate like they loved it... then we spotted these fun rides and all three took a turn. I would have gotten on the elephant, but I think it may have been its last ride ever!

Monday lunch

2007-04-12T10:43:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful meal with service that was out of this world! People that want to serve can be recognized in similar fashions around the world I suppose. These ladies took great care of us. It is so good to have our children with us during these times. Joseph Yonatan Befkadu Long is able to help us with our language skills... he is very good at translating for us. We have learned much about him that we will share when we return. Many surprises about his life thus far!!

We are learning many interesting customs... watching the kids wash hands before and after each authentic Ethiopian meal can be quite an experience. Watching them brush their teeth at night before bed is simply amazing! They brush forever with no regard to the water soaking their clothes... or anything else nearby. It is like nothing I've ever seen. I am eating well, Kris maybe not as well as I. (Eating well has never been a problem for me in the past... to me it is good food made in a different pan!?!) Just today (two days after the actual meal) Kris discovered that she had eaten Ox. She simply stated that she had never eaten ox before, as it is too late not to eat it. (She secretly liked it very much!!!) Since I'm on food and customs... In America we eat off of our own plate while spreading out around a table. In Ethiopia, we eat off of the same plate as we sit huddled around a small stand (the name escapes me) and we occassionally feed the person next to us or across from us as a sign of love and friendship. There is much relationship in these meals; true friendship!

We have seen more rain than we care to see! Everyday we have had rain. I have never seen so much mud. Imagine a large city with many hills and many half finished roads... and many of those that are finished are made out of rocks and dirt. Since sleep has been a little difficult, we decided to stay up past 1:00AM last night/this morning and talk with the other couples staying at the guest house. As usual, Kris and I were very quiet and really listened to everyone else most of the time! Today we went to Lake Hora(sp?). There are many things happening there that I will not write about. All I will say is that it would be a good spot to locate a ministry of some sort.

Kris will write about the kids and other details. She's a great mom, and it shows with the kids already! All three of these kids will need lots of love... for two of them, most of it in the form of discipline(although we can hardly keep from laughing right now!) Hello to all of our family and friends tuning in. There will be more coming later. We love you and miss you! Got to go for now... "Where's my coffee?"

Meeting the kids

2007-04-12T09:35:00.000-04:00

First Picture!

2007-04-11T17:29:00.000-04:00

This is Aaron. I have been posting everything since my parents have been in Ethiopia. This is the first picture that my dad sent me.

Aaron

Totally Amazing!!

2007-04-11T09:02:00.000-04:00

There is so much to share and so little time. I apologize about not having any pictures to send yet. The phone lines have been down and many of the internet cafes have been closed. Finally thery are open again. GREAT NEWS!!! Yesterday's appointment at the Embassy went very well. Everything was approved with no questions of us. Not the same for everyone. All will be fine in due time. Yesterday, we went out in the morning and had lunch out as well.

It's crazy... after 3 days, Kris and I find ourselves talking in very short, 1-2 words sentences. (Imagine that for you-know-who=:)) Full sentences like... "you like." or "Walk." or "Photo?" We are even talking like this to each other. Deep communication like this could be very good for our marriage!!! (Just kidding!) The kids want to take all the photos... all except for Mintesinot... he just giggles and smiles and is generally ornery! We actually have to ask the kids to NOT be so helpful! Weird!? They truly want to please us. When does the honeymoon end? I wish our bio kids could see and experience what we have seen and heard and smelled. These are beautiful people, proud people! And God is doing some amazing things here. One of our drivers goes to a church of 2 million members. They never come together as they are focused on working in the streets. The may gather 10,000 - 15,000 at a time. I asked this driver about his testimony... He shared as we drove through the city streets... God is trully working in the lives of the people here.

Today we had our driver (Getachew is wonderful!) explain to the kids that we want to give them American names as well. They are all in favor... except the little guy... he first said "no" then said "yes" and just giggled. We have learned more about their background and we will post after we get home. Yesterday we went to visit the orphanage they were in before coming to the care center. God works miracles! Kris and I almost couldn't speak. Leaving was very hard for us and our new children, let alone the children and workers we left behind. We will post more after we get home. We have some amazing video and pictures to share. I can't wait to get the means to share them with you all.

We are holding up well, in spite of little sleep. Sunday night sleeep was good, but Monday night we added three kids to our room. The kids were out like a light. Put them in bed and turn off the switch and they were quiet... well, except for the little guy. I sang him to sleep. Once we put the kids down we either sit and talk with the other families or just go to bed. Monday night I moved to the couch as there is not enough room for us all in the one room. Kris switched with me around 4:00 AM or so. I remember being awake all night. Somehow God is providing need rest for both of us.

Today was a big outing... shopping in the markets, stopping by a coffee shop/cafe for some refreshments. You should see the kids drink tea(chai)! We'll be needing to buy some tea and become tea drinkers when we get home. We prepared our lunch at the guest house and then I walked to this Internet Cafe. I hope to be back later today with more to write and photos I can share. Until then... We love you all and miss you.

Brent

We're Here!!!

2007-04-09T08:29:00.000-04:00

God is so good! We have arrived in Addis, and we have met our new kids.Praise the Lord! This message must be very short and quick. Kris and I went this morning to meet our new children... I sat by the back window of the taxi, and as we pulled into the care center, our children were waiting with anticipation. Yonatan found me right away in the taxi and hugged and kissed me through the back window. Then he brought his sister and brother to the window and they hugged and kissed me as well. This all before we got out of the taxi. We were overwhelmed!

Today we filled out more paperwork (gag) and then taxied back to the guest house (Addis Kadan) where we are staying. Everyone has been so wonderful and accommodating! These people are so nice and respectful!!Kris and I had some time with our children in the guest house before going back out for a traditional Ethiopian lunch with new friends. Ourchildren are very helpful. They want to serve us and take lots of photos. I walked to an Internet Cafe to send this message.

We are so excited to introduce our three new children to their big brother and sisters back home, and the rest of their new family and friends. They will love you and have already asked about you. I will try to send more later. We just wanted you all to know we are here and all right, and the children are with us. Many Blessings!Our cup is full and overflowing!

Praise Jesus!
Brent

2007-04-05T17:06:00.000-04:00

Kris and I are packed (almost!) and we are set to leave. How do you fully prepare for a trip like this when it is something you have never done? We will discover when we get there whether or not we have everything we need. All of your prayers and encouragement over the last year will come to a new revelation when we meet our kids for the first time on Monday. We can't wait to share this moment with you. Here's a close up of our kids as they wait for us to come.

God promises that we will have everything we need in Heaven. How do you fully prepare for this trip when it is something you have never done? My best answer is to place the preparation in some capable hands - hands that are proven to be able to get you there. Hands that have prepared the trip for many others. Hands that are constantly ready to prepare the trip for more. Hands that belong to the One who said He was "the way, the truth and the life!" Are you packed and ready to go?

Movin' In ... and Movin' On!

2007-03-28T20:58:00.000-04:00

Today was a big day... we finally got Aaron moved into his new room today. I still have a few finishing touches, but he will sleep in his new digs tonight!! "Praise the Lord!" Here's a picture of him movin' in.
Now we're movin' on to the next thing...

Oh yea... I almost forgot... WE ARE GOING TO ETHIOPIA TO PICK UP OUR CHILDREN!!! We have an Embassy date on April 10th! We will meet our children for the first time on Monday, April 9th. We plan to have our children home on April 14th. So many have offered prayers and support throughout this entire process... God is always faithful... Thanks to all who have generously offered donations. Here's a small sampling of what we are able to take with us for the orphanages we visit:

Boxes of Granola Bars
Medical Supplies
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Combs
Soap
Socks
Dozens of Pencils
Bandaids
Ointment
Pain Reliever
Stuffed Animals
Frisbees
Jump Ropes
Matchbox Cars
Coloring Books
Crayons
School Supplies
Happy Meal toys
Soccer Balls
... and clothes, clothes, clothes!

Observe the Lilies…

2007-03-22T22:05:00.000-04:00

And so with three new kids coming into the house after we had already given away all of our (bios’) outgrown clothes, we wondered how in the world we were going to be able to outfit the new kids. And then Jesus spoke… “And why are you anxious about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory did not clothe himself like one of these.” (Matt. 6:28-29)

Today, Kris and the kids went through 5 bags of clothes that were brought to us last night. Some of these clothes will stay here; some will go to Ethiopia to be delivered to the orphanages we visit. Praise the Lord! I am learning through firsthand experiences exactly what Jesus spoke of that day. My questions as the husband and father sound like this… “What shall we eat?” What shall we drink?” “With what shall we clothe ourselves?” “How do I take care of 7 children, Lord?” “Did I hear You correctly, Lord?” “Did You really say… ‘more kids’?”

And Jesus said… "Brent,… Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Okay Lord. Okay. Aren’t the lilies beautiful?

Making Room... Why Can't It Be Us?

2007-03-21T23:02:00.000-04:00

Work on the basement bedroom has been progressing steadily... thank God! I hope to paint this weekend. And then carpet, and Aaron can move in! It is amazing to me what changes are taking place just so that we can make room for three new lives to join us soon. Very soon, we hope! Still no Embassy date, but we know it is coming. Watching these men sacrifice their Saturday, and then thinking back almost 12 months to the start of our adoption process, I got to thinking about how the practical, physical reality of building a bedroom in our basement is sort of like God doing a renovation in our hearts so that we can find room for others. When our family first started down this path, we had a "family meeting" in one of the upstairs bedrooms, and we sat and talked about the "what ifs" for about an hour. The kids were so great with this. We talked through as many different scenarios as we could think of... and then it was Ellie that said, "Someone has to love those kids! Someone has to help take care of them! Why can't it be us? Why can't it be us? I love them already! Why can't it be us?"

It was that night that I knew for sure that God had made room in my heart, and I was watching Him make room in my wife's heart and our children's hearts. Why can't it be us? God is in the renovation business. He can take a selfish heart like mine and he can strip it to the bare walls. Then He can turn around and start to fill up that new space with His building blocks... Love and Peace and Joy, Faith and Trust, Mercy and Forgiveness. He is a Master Builder! He has made room for us, and He has made room for one more, or two more, and one or two more, and more. He has moved in and He has filled that space. It is because of Christ that we are making room for others. It is because of Christ that these men give of themselves. It is because of Christ that we can now say in complete confidence... "Why can't it be us?" It can be us, because of Christ. PRAISE THE LORD! Have you made room for Him?

To Embassy or Not To Embassy...

2007-03-14T17:06:00.000-04:00

We're waiting to hear about our Embassy date. It has been said it could be April 3rd or April 10th. I wonder when we'll know for sure? I wonder if our new kids know what an "embassy" is? There are so many things we need to do before we fly...sell a van, buy a van; finish a bedroom, rearrange bedrooms, repaint bedrooms, fill bedrooms with furniture, (will someone please clean out the garage!) Did I mention the bedrooms? What are we forgetting?

Kris is busy gathering clothes for the new Long children. The trip is coming and soon we will be flying high - on our way to pick up our own children in a foreign land. That sounds wild. That means we have children that belong to us, with our last name, that we've never met, that we are legally responsible for, in another country, half way around the world. Who can figure that out?

We have been blessed by so many... God has a way of utilizing His people to serve in so many ways. A few names come to mind just from last weekend... Mark, Mark, Greg, Dave, El, Aaron. Wow! Thanks for Godly men that offer their time and talent. (Did I mention the bedrooms?)

Closer than you think

2007-03-08T21:52:00.000-05:00

I remember several years ago, I was driving back from a day trip to visit a client. After 75 minutes or so, I was only about 30 minutes from home. I thought about how close I was to being home, and about the fact that Kris and the kids had no idea I was this close. Then I was suddenly overwhelmed with the thought that Jesus knows exactly how close He is to coming back... and when He comes, He will be taking me home with Him! I know He is coming... His Word says so. Ever stop to think how close He is?

Our court date was successful yesterday! (Praise the Lord!) I want to tell our new kids that we are closer than they think. We're on our way, and we'll be there soon. I imagine the Father's arms wide open to embrace me... He is excited to welcome me into His home. He paid in full (through the blood of Christ) my adoption. We're coming kids... you belong to our family now! I can't wait to hold you, to embrace you. I want to introduce you to your new big brother and your new sisters. I want to introduce you to Jesus... because when He comes back, He'll be coming for you as well! He could be closer than we think...

Court Date

2007-02-26T22:40:00.000-05:00

Today we received confirmation that a court date has been scheduled for our adoption... March 7th. We appear one step closer to bringing our kids home from Ethiopia. By the grace of God we have made it to this point... losing six kids along the way that we loved very much and called "ours" if only through pictures and for a short time. I still don't know for sure when these kids will "officially" be ours, but I do know the God of the universe... and I know that He knows.
He is the same God that previously had a "court date" with me, and became my Father after adopting me into His Family. I'm certain I can trust Him. Thanks for your prayers.

Our Story

2007-02-20T18:49:00.000-05:00

Here is a summary of what has been going on throughout our adoption process. (Written by Aaron.)

When we first decided to adopt, we chose two boys that we instantly fell in love with. The ages were about 9 years and 6 years. We were constantly thinking about them. We were waiting for the call to come about our court date, but when it finally came, it didn't turn out to be the call we wanted. After my mom got off the phone, she told us that we had to pick new kids. The mother had freaked out and decided she wouldn't let them be adopted. We were so depressed. Who would of ever thought that this would happen? Now, after a couple months of paperwork and waiting, we were back to step one. Time to pick new kids.

The next kids that we picked we were so excited about. They were a group of four, one girl and her three younger brothers. We loved them so much. We got a little farther than with the two boys, but then the call came. The mother had changed her mind. She wouldn't let the two youngest boys be adopted and she added a new older boy with a different father who was around 15 years old. We couldn't adopt someone that old. We were heartbroken.

Now we hope to adopt a sibling set of three. A boy, around 8 or nine, a girl, around 6, and a boy, around 31/2 or 4. We love these kids just as much as the the two other sets.

Well, that's pretty much it. Sometimes we wonder if by the time we finally bring kids into our house, every orphan in Ethiopia (yes, we are adopting from Ethiopia) will feel like our child. But we know that God will bring the right children into our home

Under Construction...

2007-02-19T19:52:00.000-05:00

Welcome to The LONG Road Home. Not only is this blog under construction, but our son's new room is too. We are making room in our lives for three new children.

Since we're getting three new kids, Aaron's bedroom is being relocated to the basement. Here's a picture of the progress so far. I better hurry up!

One of my clients (MCR Services) sent someone over to help frame it out. Then, Mark and Greg came over to help with the window. Through an interesting series of events, God provided a $350 window for $74. What a gift!! God knows how to remodel... He has done so in my life, and continues to renovate my heart.