Playing Catch- Up!

Well, it has been over 3 months since we have had our dossier in Ethiopia. Only 4-6 more to go! Wow- we're almost there, child(ren).

A whole lot has happened since my last post. I want to record some of this since our daughter will want to know what went on while we waited. First, we had a great 4th of July in Houston. Above is a picture of us at the Kemah Boardwalk, where we watched fireworks, rode rides, ate delicious food, and generally had a grand time.

We also went crabbing (Papa's favorite passtime), went to the zoo, went to Nana and Papa's church, ate too much, etc. Great trip but we wished you were there, little girl.

In other news, I had major surgery on Friday, July 18th. I had a foot of metal taken out of my hip. The docs expected: 3-5 days in hospital (I spent 2), I would barely be able to get around with a walker (I walked on crutches the first day), I would need help with every activity for a while (I can do almost everything for myself and have since the first day), I would need mind-altering narcotics to cope with the pain (I haven't taken any since day 1! I barely use Extra Strength Tylenol). I sleep through the night, I can almost walk without my crutches, and lookey here- I am blogging! Am I Super Woman? Hardly! Let me tell you my secret: My mighty God has answered EVERY prayer! He visited me in my hospital room and gave me strength and comfort. I now know Him in a more REAL way than I ever have before. I am a walking testament to His love, grace, and care! Praise the Lord!

So, many more events are on the horizon. I will barely have time to get Nya's room ready before I leave to get her. I am thankful for that! The Lord is keeping me busy in preparation. To anyone reading this who prayed for me during my surgery: Our Father really did answer your prayers in the most amazing way! Thank you, thank you, thank you for standing with me.

Love,

Amber

Birthday Tribute to My Baby Boy!

Happy birthday to Levi, who is 4 years old! Look at that face, will ya? You can probably tell what a character he is. Levi is so unique in almost every way. He is a natural leader, a genuinely funny person, strong, cute, as smart as a whip! He is the total package. On the day he was born, I knew he was original! What I could never have predicted is the amount of sheer joy this child has brought me. He is pure love most of the time. He actually told me one day, "Mommy, if you die, I want to die with you!" To hear him say that (much less think that at the age of 3!!) was astounding! Nya, he loooooves you- I mean, he is the most enthusiastic big brother I have ever seen. I will hear him pray for you frequently, or here's one I caught him doing this weekend: we were at Nana and Papa's and he whispered, "Go to Nya!" and then he blew a kiss into the air! He is simply amazing and I am so blessed to be his mom. I can't wait for you to meet him, Nya. You will ove him as much as I do and I believe he will bring joy to your life as he has everyone in this family's lives.
Love,
Mommy