The Real Neal Deal

2010-11-25T07:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!

I ponder a year ago..last Thanksgiving....it was such a day of mixed emotions. I wanted to soak every moment with my kids. Rich and I were leaving for Ecuador the next day. I was ready to go get this new son of ours, but my heart was so sad to leave my other children.

I feel so blessed to be home with them this year. I spent the day yesturday baking rolls, cookies, and making chocolate covered strawberries. This is what I longed to do all last Christmas season with my children around me helping. I got to do that in preparing for Thanksgiving. I felt so grateful for all the many blessings of family, being together as a family, not having to be apart, and seeing God's hand in our families lives every day this past year.

It has been a very very hard year for me, but I see such tender mercies in my life and the lives of my family. I have felt guided how to teach and love my family. I have felt protected from so much at the same time facing so much heartache. I see the growth of our family's unity...

I'm here as a witness that Heavenly Father loves each one of us. He IS here to help us make it through what ever trial we face. He is there waiting for us to turn to Him so he can wrap His loving arms around us. He is there to enjoy with us all our joys that we face as well. We are His children. He knows us and loves us...I can feel it so strong even as I write this.

I am grateful for this knowledge. I am grateful for His love and knowing.. I am a daughter of God.

2010-11-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

I didn't post for Sarah's Birthday.... November 12

All Sarah wanted for her birthday was to be in her house before we move. She got her birthday wish. Angie Wach made the most yummy red velvet cake ever for Sarah. We were able to eat this and open presents. I tried hard to have it as special of a day as possible because she wasn't very happy about moving the next day. We ended our evening all cuddled in mine and Rich's bed watching a Barbie movie. It was great to be together like that.

Sarah is such a sweetie......my little angel. She loves to take charge and be the little mother. She is such a silly goober. She keeps us laughing at the dinner table. She can be fearless when she sets her mind to it. Now, if I could get her to think that way about eating strawberries. :) I have enjoyed watching her grow into such a big girl. She did swim team this past summer. It was very hard for her, but she did it. She didn't want to switch schools when we moved, but after praying and fasting she felt like she should switch and she did (although it was hard for her). She got up to bear her sweet testimony in church in November. It was so tender. She said she knew that when we are having a hard time that Heavenly Father will help us and that she knew Thomas S. Monson was a true prophet. That was it, but so from the heart. My little girl is getting so big in spirit and strength. I love this little girl of mine...she is my JOY

2010-10-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

I remember the days when my little boys would come into my bedroom in the middle of the night to tell me they were scared, peed the bed, needed to go to the bathroom, or wanted to cuddle. I remember being so tired and sometimes hoping Rich would get out of bed to help them or pretending to be a sleep a little longer to see if Rich even heard them. Most of the time he didn't and I would get up with them. I loved putting them back to bed as they snuggled into their covers. I missed this so much when I was in Ecuador for that month almost a year ago. I couldn't wait til I came home and they would cuddle me in the middle of the night or in the early hours in the morning.

I returned from Ecuador and I was so sad to learn that they didn't do this anymore. I felt like they didn't need me in that way anymore. That they learned to handle things without me and became so independent.

It has almost been a year...something I have longed to happen has happened. Kiefer came into my bedroom and was scared. He climbed up into my bed and cuddled me. I loved putting my arms around him and hearing his breathing go deeper and deeper til he fell asleep.

I have longed for this so much and thought my times of having this was long gone. I felt like it was a gift from God in a night I needed to feel that kind of love and being needed.

I guess sometimes I don't know what I got til it's gone.

I love my little Kiefer. It took almost a year. I wish it happened sooner, but it was worth the wait to cuddle my little sweetie in the middle of the night.

2010-08-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Aug.2 Kiefer and Caleb had their 5th birthday.

It was a great day going to the pool, having their special meals, and seeing them play with their gifts.

Kiefer and Caleb told everyone that it was their birthday and they were turning 5.

Kiefer was born 2 minutes before Caleb, so he usually gets to blow out his candles first. Kiefer is such a little goober. I don't think he can walk across a room without doing something goofy. He keeps us laughing. One thing I love about Kiefer is his sweetness. If I'm ever sitting or laying down Kiefer will start playing with my hair. He will run and get a brush then send me into moments of heaven by brushing my hair. He has mastered this art.
He loves having his back rubbed. In the middle of the day he will come to me and ask me to rub his back and he will cuddle me for some time. I love this.

Kiefer loves riding his bike, swimming, going to church and school, and he loves to color. He also loves rubbing his bellybutton. It is so funny to see. He also loves Caleb. He loves being with Caleb. They either help eachother make good choices or they are in crime together.

Caleb, my "youngest", is a sweetheart. Caleb can sit at the table and write his letters for a very long time. He loves to swim, write, build blocks, go to church, school,...really he likes going anywhere. The thing I love about Caleb is his manlyness. He loves putting on his tennis shoes and showing us how fast he can run around. He is my little helper. If I come home from walmart, he is there to help bring in the bags of food. He wants me to see how srong he is. Even with all his manhood at such a young age, he is very sensitive. He is kind to others and is very helpful with other kids.
He loves playing with Kiefer at bedtime. This is the time when Caleb becomes a bit of a teaser.
I love hearing them talk and laugh at bedtime. Sometimes they talk and laugh for a couple of hours. I can never stop them. It is such a neat thing to witness.

Kiefer and Caleb both bring me so much JOY. They brighten my days. I love my twin boys. It was really hard those first several years, but they have the gift of bringing so much love and happiness wherever they are. I am so blessed to have them as my little boys...my babies.

2010-08-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

I prayed that Marcelo would recieve all the love and excitement for him on his Birthday. This is his first birthday with us and I wanted him to feel loved and special.

Since, we were on our way back from vacation we were in a hotel the morning of his birthday. I decorated a poster for him and the girls blew up balloons for him. (Rich and I had to get two rooms for our family) In the morning we girls went to the boys room and threw balloons up and sang happy birthday to him.

We got home in time to fix his cake. He wanted yellow cake with chocolate icing. We fixed chicken, rice(which did not turn out), and french fries. His favorites.

While we ate I told him it is a family tradition to tell how the birthday person came into our family. I told of how Heavenly Father guided us to him and then I told how Rich and I came on a plane, we were so excited to see and meet him. I told of the first day we got to see him and all the things we did........and how we all

felt.

As I told the story, so many of the emotions came back from that time. It was such a high and low of feelings. I felt a rush of emotions, but I was able to hold it in while I told the story.

My little Marcelo has been with us for 8 months. It is hard to imagine how far we have come. He is such a different boy and I am a different kind of Mom.

Marcelo is such a good boy. His heart is kind. He is funny. He is smart. He notices so many things even small things. He asks so many questions of what I am doing and why I'm doing it, where am I going and why,......He loves music, loves to be sang to, loves food, loves swimming, loves playing with cars and loves his new leapster. He doesn't like getting his picture takin when he is the center of the attention, he doesn't like quiet time, and he doesn't really like watching tv.

All in all I think he had a great birthday. I love my little Marceo.

2010-07-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

I have to share two cute stories with Marcelo..

The other day I was having one of those days. I told my kids that I was a grouch and if they wanted to have a nice day they won't talk back, pick fights, and they will say yes when I ask them to do something. ( I think the summer heat has gotten to their heads. I was at my limit with their teasings and throwing fits when I asked them to do something). I was leaving to go somewhere and I was getting in my car, while my kids were eating lunch at the table. The door from the house opened and Marcelo's head peeks out and he yells out..."I love you, mom!"

It was one of those moments when I really felt he meant it. I needed to hear those lovely words at that moment. My sweet little Marcelito.

My second story is...

Marcelo was yelling for me through the house, "MOM...MOM..MOM"

Savannah said,"What"

Marcelo said," No, my real Mom.."

To some this might be small, but to me...it was very sweet. We have come a long way. I used to be know as "the mom".....Now, he called me his real mom. Our relationship is so much better. We have moments now..sweet ones. I can tell he feels closer, more trust, and more comfort with me. We still have a lot further to go, but my heart is so grateful for how far we have come. I am grateful for how he comes up to me and hugs me, holds my hand as we walk, rubs my back or arm while we sit together at church. I am finding that we are having more of those sudden acts of love that a mother and child share throughout our days. I feel more depth as we both express our love for eachother.......I'm just so grateful, today.

2010-06-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

6 months...a whole 6 months that Marcelo has been in our family. Six months ago we came from Ecuador with this little boy that only spoke spanish, wouldn't open any of his Christmas presents, was scared of all his new surroundings, and many more things that I know about and things that I hope he will share as he gets older.
I had no idea how my life was going to change. I have learned so much. It has been such a blessing to have Marcelo in our family. We are all better people for having him in our lives. I love this boy. He has no idea how much I love him and all that I go through for him. I have enjoyed looking at all his growth he has made.
I feel like there is more trust, love, light, joy, security, and peace in his life. He loves his siblings. He loves playing with them. He loves playing school, riding his bike, going to church, singing songs, playing house, writing his name and letters, and he loves his Daddy.
Marcelo is a hard worker. He folds clothes, sweeps the floor, does a great job cleaning up. He enjoys doing dishes, but I really don't have him do that very often. He can be the one who will listen just to be the first to listen. Marcelo is kind and very gentle. He puts up with a lot with his brothers.
So, as I look at all the wonderful things that have happened in the last 6 months and all that I have been able to discover about Marcelo...it is bitter sweet.
It has been the hardest thing I have ever and am going through. I have been tested and tested and rejected and...you name it I have delt with it. I am left very mentally tired so much of the time. When one thing seems to be getting better another issue comes up, and there is the whole two steps forward one step back thing. I have gone through emotions that I never even knew I had. I have had weaknesses come forth that I'd rather them stay down deep. It has put strains on relationships and have tested the strength of them. I could go on and on.
On the flip side...I feel like those relationships have become so much stronger and united. I feel like many of those weaknesses have become strengths of mine. I have learned to continue to reach out (which is still hard at times..many times) when it all seems to be rejected.
My favorite thing in the whole experience is calling upon my Heavenly Father and seeing on a daily bases his help, answers, guidance, and love. I am not perfect and I make so many mistakes with this whole new life of mine. But, I know my prayers have been answered. Heavenly Father is so kind and loving and aware of me and all that I go through and all that I feel. I know He is aware of Marcelo. I know I have recieved guidance to such little things that have been hard to do, but has made huge differences in our lives.
Teaching a little child such basics that a baby learns has been rewarding. Marcelo is learning still, but has come so far in knowing what a family is all about.
Our relationship is still growing. We have good days and bad ones. We are still learning to trust eachother. He still tests me like no other, but I feel like everything is on the right path. All that we have been through was needed to go through and still need to go through more. I wouldn't trade it or even change it. This is all shaping us to become the people God wants us to become.
I know through the Atonement of Christ all will be healed, hearts will change, and that happiness and love will only grow. It just takes a lot of work and time on our part. Everything worth having
is worth the work....right :)

2010-06-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are the best...especially my Grandma Mini.
I went to her home today needing to get away for awhile. I had a great visit. We talked,watched a little movie, and I made her dinner.
I left feeling loved, wanted, at peace, and full of positiveness. My grandma Mini is the best place to go to to be nurtured. I remember spending so much time as a little girl there. She loved me, taught me, feed me...I always felt like I was so important and special to her. I remember leaving High school one day because I was sick. Her house is where I went. She cared for me, cooked for me, and I got the best back scratches ever. I would sleep on her couch or even her bed. It was the best.
I love my Grandma so much. She is a woman of such faith and knowledge. She serves and gives of everything she has. She is positve, never complains, thrifty, and she makes the best out of every situation. She loves and loves and loves. She is such an example to me...

2010-06-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Wizard of Oz was the ballet this year that the girls did. Rich even got to be in the action. Alot of time goes into this production, but the girls love it. They get so excited to find out what they are doing and what part they will be. This was Bry's first year on point and she was so beautiful in her dances. She is one of the older girls now. I can remember her first year. She was so little.
She loves dancing.
Savy loves dressing up and always has. She was so beautiful in her oz costume. I can tell that she enjoys being on stage and having that spot light on her. She is going to be pre-point next year.
Sarah...what a beautiful girl. I think this is the first year that she was more into the dance on stage instead of looking for us and smiling so big. She knew her part and was so happy to be apart of it all.
I love seeing my girls work so hard in something and then be able to show case it. Ballet is hard work. By proformance night...it is all worth it. It is something I look forward to each year.

2010-06-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

little Savannah......at her 5th grade graduation. Her big sister, Bry, did her hair and got her all ready for her big night. It made Savy feel special and beautiful.
Savy has had these two friends, both named Sarah, for several years. One of them just moved and it was really sad. They have been good friends to my Savy.
It was so nice to be able to celebrate Savy.
She is going to be in middle school. A big girl...preteen...I don't know if I am ready for that. My little innocent girl is going to be in a whole new world. I'm so glad to know that she is strong, good, smart, has high self esteem, and that she is happy.
Savannah will be grate. I'm excited to see her grow and become a little lady:)

2010-06-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

Kiefer and Caleb had ther preschool play on their last day. They are so cute and such a joy. I can't believe they have one more year of preschool before they are gone everyday to elementry school.

They went over their parts over and over at home. They pulled it off and said their parts in the play. Not, only did they say it but you could hear it. I think that is the first for any of my kids at that age. I can't say enough how much I love these boys and how grateful I am for all the joy they bring into my life.

2010-06-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

Bryanna recieved her first roses from a boy. She will most likely die when she sees I posted this, BUT you only recieve your first roses once and years from now she will be happy I got this picture.

2010-05-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

After two really bad days and four really bad "school" days for Marcelo and myself we have a MIRACLE!!!!!!!

The last four school days for Marcelo he has finished his work at 4:30, 6:00, 5:30, and 4:00. That means really hard days and hard lessons to be learned for him and myself. I was at the end of my rope yesturday. I think he was too.

Today, he finished at 11:30 am!!!!!!!!! I am so happy. He is outside playing and having fun. I am inside able to get things done that I haven't gotten done or really wanted to get done. It is a break for me. I now can go through the day and not have some one fighting against me all day. A BREAK!!! That is what I prayed for.

It might not last all day, but for now I am going to enjoy my moment for however long. I'm going outside and study my spanish. Yes, Kim, I will be prepared for our class tomorrow.LOL

2010-05-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

Last night Rich and I came home from a fun evening with friends to find all our boys in the basement sleeping. We thought how cute is this. I imagined Marcelo feeling really apart of the boys. They looked so peaceful all cuddled up in bed.

I think of the little song...There was ten in the bed and the little one said move over, move over...so they all move over and now there were nine in the bed.....

SO, I am wondering how they can go from this to three of them peeing in the bed ON PURPOSE when they woke up. They were awake and decided, "I'm going to pull my pants down and pee on the bed." Another boy saying, " Oh really, well I'm going to pee through my pants and pee on the bed." Then the third boy saying, "WEll, I"M going to sit on the bed and pee on the bed."

While the fourth boy is smart enough not to do it, he is laughing the whole time.

WHERE DO BOYS GET THIS FROM!!!!!!!!!! It is yucky....VERY YUCKY!!!

Not a great way to wake up on a Saturday. I need to read my last blog and think positve. The thing is it is early in the morning and that is the only thing I have to look at for my day. Oh, I just thought of a positve. Since, they did this they are doing extra jobs today, which means less work for me. Now, that puts a smile on my face! he he

2010-05-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

WHAT A DAY!!!!!!!!!

I am worn out. I had a flat tire today. So flat I couldn't drive on it. In the middle of all that going on I had a child who tested every bit of my strength. For hours today it was like someone pushing against me and me trying to keep my ground. Days like this leave me so longing for a better day.

The interesting thing is.... if I think of all the good things that happened, I can feel so different about my day.

The good things that happened today..........

-I went to spanish class...I love going to spanish.

-I got to visit with mom Neal

-I ate lunch with Tamara while the kids played

-Since the flat tire was not in my drive way AAA came to put on a spare one

-In the middle of a child pounding on the door in time out I went outside to enjoy the quiet and to read my scriptures and pray for help and calmness. While I did this a beautiful butterfly landed on my clothes and stayed there for a long time. It was so sweet at the moment.

-I got to vent to my sister who has a great listening ear...Jessica :)

-I was hugged and kissed by my hubby when he got home from work

-Dinner was soo good and easy(thanks to dinner group)

-I got to go on a wonderful run by myself, at night, in the beautiful weather outside. It ended my day so nice.

So, when I look at all the good things that happened today. I had a GREAT day. I loved my day.

Maybe, I 'll choose not to look at all the hard moments today and let go of all the yucky feelings. If I do this I'll be going to bed feeling really happy about my day and who I am as a person and a Mom. I think that sounds good. Good night ya'll.

2010-05-11T17:00:00.002-07:00

May 11,2010
Today I woke up with a head that was pounding. Oh, it hurt. My throat hurt to swallow. Rich brought me some tylenol and a sinus med. It helped.
Around 4:00 my head started to pound again and it hurt really bad to talk or to swallow.
When it was bed time I went to put Marcelo to bed. I knelt down to hear him pray and in his prayer he prayed that...Mama won't be sick no more.
HE PRAYED FOR ME.
OK, this may sound little to some people, but it is the first time he has ever prayed for me. My new little son was thoughtful and prayed for me. He is learning to pray so a lot of his prayers are short and the same thing said in them. Tonight, he thought "outside" the box and prayed for me.
So, maybe he is getting it. That we pray to Heavenly Father for help and that he hears us. May- be he was concerned aboout me.....
Whatever it was... I'll take the pounding headache all over again to hear his sweeet little prayer.

2010-05-11T17:00:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day I woke to my kids coming in singing.."Happy mother's day to you. Happy Mother's day to you!"
I got a nice breakfast in bed and lots of homemade cards from the kids. I opened my gift from the kids. They made me a tie blanket. It is so cute.
I have to be honest. I was really worried about Mother's Day. It is the first one Marcelo will have with a Mom. I didn't know how he would do.
ALL the kids were great. The girls helped so much. I enjoyed preparing some of the dinner with them. All of us working together and talking while all the boys were in time out from being so hyper during church. It was nice to have that time with the girls.
The boys during church were hyper, but they were also excited for me. They kept putting my hair behind my ears, telling me I'm pretty, saying I love you, and telling me that I have to be happy because it was Happy Mother's Day. They were great. This was all done in between them wrestling eachother, clapping hands loudly, talking or singing loudly, biting eachother or themselves...........My boys keep me very ......let's just say I'm never bored.
I spent the rest of the day visiting with so much family and I stayed up way too late, but I loved my day.
I did get some special time with each of the boys before bed. Each one I was able to have a different experience with. The boys are always full of suprises. I never know what I'lll get from them. Well, some of them :)
Rich was a sweetie the whole day. I got my Mother's day gift from him early(on Friday). It was a cheetah print chair. I loved it. I am so blessed to have my hubby and my little sweeties and little men. They fill my life with so much love and joy. I am so grateful to be a MOM.

2010-05-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

April 2, 2010
We got sealed to Marcelo in the Louisville, Kentucky temple

2010-05-11T16:58:00.002-07:00

Bry's 13 birthday

2010-05-11T16:58:00.001-07:00

SAVY"S 11 birthday

2010-02-28T16:59:00.000-08:00

I am amazed at things that I learn......... Things that I don't even think twice about. Things that I think every one knows. BUT, they DON'T.

Tonight, Rich was talking to Marcelo. He talked about how our bodies are special...we treat them right..modesty.....etc. Rich mentioned the word "body"(in spanish). Marcelo didn't know what that was.

I'm amazed at the things we think everyone has to know or should know. I mean, our bodies...we have had these since we have been born. For him 5 years. Nobody to share what the word "body" meant.

Marcelo is still learning so many things. He is like a sponge. Some things are very hard for him, other things are very easy. We are still not to normal. Days can be very hard, but every once in a while I see a bit into his thinking or old ways of life. Some of it is so sad.

I do know that what he has faced and is facing in life will all be part of who he needs to be for the future. It will shape him into the man God wants him to be and to touch the lives of certain people that most people won't be able to....... All because of what his life has given him.

It seems like we both are going through some life changing experiences at the same time. It isn't always fun while in the middle of it all.

I was having a rough day, for certain reasons, a couple of days ago. I went in prayer that night asking Heavenly Father for help, comfort, and peace. I woke the next morning feeling renewed. I felt at peace and happy. It is wonderful to feel Heavenly Father's love in my life and to see Him working in my life. I'm so grateful for prayer. I could never live with out it. Miracles happen every day all because of prayer......This I am grateful for.

2010-02-25T10:25:00.000-08:00

Everyday life is getting so much better. Every week we see how our family is becoming more united with Marcelo. We still have some challenges, but they have gotten soooo much better. Yesturday, the kids came home from school around 1:00. We all watched a movie and although Marcelo doesn't watch them it was relaxing. He played in the same room, coming up to us every once in awhile. There were no fights and no tantrums. It was so nice to have that comfort feeling in our home again. (not that we don't have fights on a everyday bases...)

Marcelo is still learning about us and our silly jokes. Yesturday, after his shower, all the boys were in the bathroom. I got the silly string out and started spraying them. All the boys were laughing and begging me to spray them. Marcelo cried. He was probably thinking, "I'm all clean and what in the world is she spraying on me." It didn't take long before he was begging for me to spray him. The best part was that Rich came home in the middle of this, SO I got to spray him.

Then I went into the kitchen and got Sarah and Savannah. They loved it!!

Rich and I got Bryanna the other night when she was watching American Idol. She was covered in it. I realized shortly afterwards that we better get it all out of her long hair. Clean up isn't always fun. :)

So, silly string, coloring faces with marker, dressing up, and even putting pull ups on their heads have helped chase the winter blues away. I almost forgot, we ahve done a lot of leg wrestling. We even talked Grandma Neal into doing it with the boys. We all loved this. It was very funny!!!

2010-02-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

Oh, my Trey Trey. I just love this boy so much. We got to celebrate his 6th birthday and allow him to feel special. He wanted chocolate cake with chocolate icing, to go swimming and a pinata. We as a family had so much fun swimming and then the next day shoveling snow to do the pinata outside. What fun ideas Trey had.

I have been so impressed with Trey and the love he has shown Marcelo coming into our family. He is so willing to share and give him ONE more chance. Trey is so smart. He is great at sounding out words and focusing on reading outloud. I love his hugs and kisses. I love looking into his brown eyes. I have loved this since he was a little baby. Something in his eyes are so precious and familar to me. I am amazed at his ability to not get hurt more than he has. I really think he has about 10 angels that protect him and some nights they got to be so happy he is asleep. My Trey has grown so much. He, at times, has growing pains in his legs during the night that are very painful for him.

Trey is very fast and sometimes I think he is faster than what his brain can keep up with. He is so busy. Infact, one night I was taking pictures of him watching a movie in every picture his hands are in a different position. That boy could not hold still. :) I love my wiggle worm. He is my cutie pie.

2010-02-17T17:58:00.000-08:00

My sisters are the best. They gave me a "JIll"night. We all got together for some good treats and to sit and talk. My Mom , Aunt Barb, and even my Grandma Mini came along with all my sisters(except Jen and Judy:( )

It was so fun to be with them and get out for a night.

Our Grandma Mini was the one keeping us laughing with her excitement about her new, silver, FUN shoes. The deal she got on them was even more exciting for her. She is a 92 year young lady . She is the center of our family. I just love her.....What a fun night!!

2010-02-17T17:35:00.001-08:00

This was such a fun day for Bryanna and me. Bryanna has taken ballet since she was 5 years old. The time had finally come that she got her point shoes. We went with her class and they all got fitted for their shoes. Even her cute teacher got a pair. We celebrated by all going out to eat afterwards.
Bryanna is loving her point shoes. The first three days she wore This year she will be able to dance in the recital with her new shoes.
It was so exciting to see her get something she has worked so hard to do. I love seeing her do
something she loves.

2010-02-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

Ok.....I guess the Lord wanted to test me from what I said in my last blog.

Sunday was a "hit hard day on Jill". WHAT? The day after I say I can't give up, I want to give up! Funny how that works. I guess everyone hits a day when they feel they are just empty and have nothing else to give. I thought of my kids last night. I realized they all had food on the table during their three meals, they were alive, and I DID tell them that I loved them. Maybe that isn't great, but tomorrow is another day. ....AND I survived

Rich was super great the whole day on Sunday. It was nice to have him home some of the time.

Today, I was able to sleep in a bit(thanks to Rich) and wake to Kiefer and Caleb climbing into bed to cudddle. They had this abc game that they were playing with. They kept pushing the "u" button. It would make the u sound and then say the word "underwear". They then would just laugh thinking it was the funniest word ever made. When they were finished with that they would brush my hair. It felt so good. They are so sweet and I really miss mornings like this.

I felt so good waking up to such happiness. I felt God was saying, "I know things can be tough, but here is some sunshine for you. Enjoy!!!!" Thus, I have felt that all day today. What a gift I have been given.

PLUS, dare I say it at 3:15 in the afternoon, there has been no time outs today AND I haven't had to ask Kiefer or Caleb to get off Marcelo's face, stop pulling his ears, stop pushing him, or to even leave him alone. IT IS A MIRACLE!!!!!!! They have played and laughed all afternoon. This is another gift today that I'm recieving with open arms.

2010-01-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

I don't know if this is a good day to write this, but I feel like if I don't do it now time will only slip away.

It has been a little over a month since we have brought Marcelo home. In so many ways it seems so long ago. I still miss so much about Ecuador and the people. I really like so much about their way of life. (not the hand washing of dishes and clothes..) I miss the people that I felt close to and being able to feel of there goodness and love of the Lord.

Marcelo has had so many firsts...trains, overpasses, water fountains, dishwashers, seatbelts, big boy bikes, snow, and (yes) wetwillies.

Trey asked him if he wanted a WETWILLY. Marcelo was so excited and said, "SI". Let's just say Marcelo was NOT a fan of them. We all had a good laugh in the car that day,except him;).

Marcelo and all the brothers and sisters have played so well. I am amazed at how well my kids have handled having another child added to our family. They have shown so much love and understanding. My children are so amazing at times. I am learning from them every day.They are all learning spanish/english, which they enjoy.

We put Marcelo in school half day. He is liking it and sometimes asks if he can eat lunch there.

He got another first and that was riding the bus in the morning. He loves that part of the day. The first day I was trying to take a picture and he was so fast that the bus driver had to hold him still for a picture.

He is starting to say some words in english(not too many). He understands alot more than he speaks. We will start getting some help at school to help him with that. I'm excited to see him grow more in school.

Marcelo loves his daddy. As soon as he comes home, Marcelo is all over him. Spanish is heard all over the house. Rich as been so busy lately, that he is missed by our new little guy.

I had my first "excited to see mommy and give her a hug" at the end of the first week of him starting school.

My days can be very long and hard. There are good days, but the bad ones are bad.

Today was a bad day. Marcelo can throw fits, ones that drive me crazy. I can spend many moments in his room with him. Everything is such a teaching moment. I am always having to be right on top of things. Expaining, teaching, correcting, and disciplining are part of my day so much more than it has ever been before. By the time night comes I'm so tired mentally and emotionally. It is just hard. There is so much more. I could go on and on, but......enough of that.

I have experienced so many emotions through this process. Ones I can cry over just thinking about and others I feel such love of my Heavenly Father. I see so many things in a different light. We, who grow up in a home, take so much for granted. Things that my kids think would be funny, my new son thinks they are very scary. He is learning things at the age of 5 that most people learn as babies and never think twice about. It may take a life time for him to really feel of the feelings that we have felt since birth.

I find my language has to change a bit. Things I would say to my kids all the time don't apply to Marcelo. So, I'm learning to change the way I say things.

It is hard not knowing what all his past holds for him. I ask myself many times if I am doing something that might bring some uncomfortable insecurity about. I wish I could see in his past and hear his thoughts, so I could know him better.

Being in Ecuador was the hardest time I have ever had. It was hard being away from my family. I had no idea how hard it was going to be. I think the Lord was protecting me before hand to get me there. I experienced emotions that were so intense, that are hard to express in words. I had so many questions not answered. (still don't have many of the answers)

With all that being said....Being in Ecuador had some of the sweetest moments I have ever had. I find that when our eyes are open we see so much of God's hands in our lives, embrassing us.

I was strengthened way beyond my own strength. I felt the love of God for me and so many others. I know we are all God's children. He loves us and wants the best for us. It isn't always how or what we think. But it is the perfect plan...His plan. I learned to walk or really crawl in darkness with a flicker of faith in what I was experiencing. Trusting in His plan isn't always so easy. I realized more than ever that I am not a quiter or should I say I'm a surivor. Even if it is harder than hard, quiting is not in my vocabulary(OK, it has been and still is at times, but I can't really follow through). Running my last marathon taught me so much of just keep moving forward. No matter what speed you are going if you are placing one foot in front of the other you are making progress. I guess when I know it is what God wants and I have recieved that special feeling that I can't deny, there is no giving up. What would be on the other side of my choices if I did give up? I wouldn't be truely happy and I would not feel any peace. I love peace. It is one of the greatest gifts for me. What is before me might be really, really, I mean REALLY hard at times, but I have peace. I can't give up on that and God never gives up on me or any of us. Thank goodness for that.

So, there is my soap box. I guess I got off the subject a bit about the first month and all.

There are hard moments and really good moments. Marcelo has changed so much. It is like night and day from the time we were in Ecuador. I feel of his love for us and his desire to be apart of our family. He wants to be in our family pictures. In fact, he wants to be in all the pictures. He is such a good boy. I feel it so strong from him. He is smart, kind, and VERY patient. He is such a hard worker and even loves to work. If I weren't careful all the other kids would have him "helping" them do their jobs.

So, we are still in the process of being united. I told Bry that we are all like a bunch of marshmellows being melted in a pot. It happens slow and you have to keep working(stirring)...but then all of a sudden you have the perfect "united" melted marshmellow creme to make the best rice crispy treats ever. There are always a few marshmellows that seem to take a little longer to melt, but once they do, it is great. So, now we are working and waiting...... til that day. We are all learning more about Christ like Love and swallowing a bit of pride every day :)

Bringing Marcelo in our family has been so good for us. We do more things together. We have different habbits now that bring more unity. We are much more crazy at dinner, but every one is having fun (unless you have a headache). We are more focused on our family and our relationships. Rich and I are more concerned about how everyone is doing and what we as parents can do for them. We are all learning to love more and accept others for who they are. Rich and I are more united than ever. I'm so grateful we were both able to be in Ecuador. It was a huge blessing. We have all recieved so many blessings from this and I'm sure they will keep coming as we learn and grow.

On a side note, I don't know if this was too much. BUT, I feel so much better now. I'm ready for my icecream cone :)

2010-01-21T19:35:00.000-08:00

Today, in our family we got to celebrate our favorite man's birthday, Rich. He turned 35!!!! I suprised him by cancelling his half day at work. I took him to breakfast and he got to take a nap. I fixed lasagna for dinner and we had fruit pizza. All at his request. All the kids thanked him for picking such yummy food. He is now at a 10:30 pm movie with his long time best friend,Tony.
I love Rich for so many reasons. He brightens my day, every day. He makes all of us laugh and he isn't afraid of making a fool of himself. I love it when he is doing things he loves. I love the sparkle in his eyes. I love his kindness, honesty, humor, and his acceptance.
Rich is so good at so many things. He cleans a bathroom better than I can. He is good at listening. He is such an example of service. He is a great singer. He is a great leader. He is good at doing doughnuts in a parking lot when there is ice everywhere. He is good at keeping things calm and at peace. He is good at down loading applications on his new phone. :)
Rich amazes me with his skills to make our kids laugh every time he smiles with brownie all over his teeth. He is great at teaching our kids fun little tricks that "mommy" doesn't always think are great in the house, but the kids think are sooo cool. He is great at the details of any project. I enjoy his out look on life. I love how all the kids run to him when he gets home from work(except the bigger ones...they may be too cool for that :) )
I love when I get to dance with him in the kitchen......MY FAVORITE.

So, just a bit to show off my hubby. :) It IS his birthday and he is the special guy of the day.

2010-01-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

I was driving in the car today thinking of all the hugs I had received or given through the day. I was pondering the "magic" of hugs.

Hugs are so powerful. They calm the stress, they give love, they take away the grumpiness, gives acceptance, calms the stress that are present, makes one feel safe, and so much more.

I love the hugs I receive from my kids and my husband. I love when we give a big whole family hug. There is nothing like it.

I recently had a friend come by and wanted just to give me a hug. It brightened my day and allowed me to feel loved, wanted, and important. It was so nice to be thought of.

So, if you are wondering what you can do for someone, or want to cheer some one up.....give a hug. It will certainly make that person feel a whole lot better.

That's my thought on that :)

2010-01-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

On the way home from church today, Kiefer and Caleb started talking about our old horse, Tippy. I had to explain that she died and went to "heaven".

Kiefer asked if we could go get her out of heaven."

I asked, "How do you do that?"

Kiefer said," we can go on a plane and go up in the sky til we get to heaven. Then we can get Tippy and bring her back."

Very interesting, Kiefer.

I forget how I enjoy the cute things they say

2009-12-29T16:22:00.000-08:00

This morning while I was laying in bed, I over heard Kiefer and Caleb fighting with eachother. (Note that they are twins, same age and same height)
They were going back and forth saying......
No, I'm bigger.
No, I'm bigger
I'm married
No, your not
Yes, when I turned 4 I got married
No, you didn't
Yes, I did
Well, I'm taller
Well, I'm older
No, I'm older.........
This went on for some time. I was laughing and enjoying my little babies, that aren't so little anymore.

2009-12-29T05:19:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is such a cute story for me. It puts a grin on my face when I think about it.
Yesturday afternoon I decided to go running. I haven't gone in about 7 weeks, so I thought I would get with it again. I put on my running clothes and headed down the stairs. As I headed down, Marcelo was heading up. Lets just say it was the first time he has seen my legs. (They don't really wear shorts where he grew up, especially the hermanas:) ) He started rumbing my legs with this stare in his eyes. He then went to Bryanna half laughing telling her I have shorts on. BUT, then I got on the tredmill. He stared at me for some time. I imagine he was thinking, what is she doing, how does that work(she is running in place on this machine with this thing that keeps moving), why in the world would she want to run in place, that is just odd.
I kept laughing to myself as I watched him looking in amazement. I have to be honest I ask myself those same questions sometimes.
Walking and excercise is a way of life there. You walk to where you want to go or take a taxi(if you can afford it or find one empty) I didn't see anyone "run" down there until the last couple of days. They looked like visitors.
Speaking of visitors. The last week Rich and I saw a couple walking down the street. My first thought was, "Oh, they surely aren't from here, they kinda stand out." I had to laugh at myself when I realized what I thought and said to Rich. After being there for some time. I felt much apart of the city and the people. I forgot that when people looked at me they were thinking the same thing about us, "they sure aren't from around here." I guess all things are in a matter of perspective :).

Home Life

2009-12-28T17:19:00.000-08:00

We're back into the groove now! I worked my first full day and Marcelo and the family had a really good day. It snowed a little last night so he got to go outside and play and have another one of his "firsts". I'll share a few of those in this post as well. I wanted to share what our lawyer told us about the last 2 days in Ecuador. Everywhere she went people said what we were doing was impossible yet here we are. We told how we had the crazy day of traveling to get his identification card. What she told us of her day is that as she hurried to the airport and arrived there they told her boarding was closed. She showed her ticket and said the plane wasn't even there yet. It just so happened that thick clouds covered the little town Catamayo where the airport was and delayed the plane just enough that they let her on. She then went to Quito to work on our papers. She first went to get some papers signed. The lady asked if everything was legal because no one ever comes with the papers dated the same date. She showed them her plane ticket and everything and they were surprised. They then told her that the Lady who normally signs those was out on sick leave and the other person with authority had resigned the day before. There was no one with the authority in the country to sign the paper. They said we'd have to wait until Jan. 4th, 2010 and someone was appointed. Our little hero lawyer then asked what she needed to do. They said they couldn't do anything. She asked again. They told her the steps that had to happen to get all this done. She then took all the legal paperwork from person to person getting signatures and approvals until someone who had never done this was appointed. This new person then procedes to ask her questions about us she doesn't know like where we were born, birthdates, etc... She tries to call me but I don't hear the phone. Finally this person says she has one more minute, I answer the phone and she asks me to text her the info. I had no idea the hurry she was in. It took me a while because of the cheap little phone I had. She called in the middle asking why I hadn't sent it, I told her it would be there. I find out later the person left, she ran down the stairs, blocked the doorway with her little body, and told them to wait, the info was coming. The paper got signed.

The next day another paper had to be signed. The only man to sign that was away on religious holiday praying. She had to get a flight this same morning (the 23rd) to make it to Guayaquil to work on the Visa. They said she'd have to wait again. Someone contacted him, she said he told her, " a child is even more important than this", left where he was at, and came and signed the paper. She then couldn't find a ticket to Guayaquil because of the holidays. She spoke to a friend in the government who got her on the plane because of "special government" business. Off she went. This is the day we had to wait until noon for the passport. Which we did get around noon. We ate and were back at the house when she called and needed the scanned copy of the passport. That story is recorded as well. It was needed come to find out for the US doctor to sign the necessary paperwork for the Visa. With this copy they started the paperwork for us to just go, show the original on the 24th and get the final paperwork at the US consulate. We made it to Guayaquil as you know. Ran around all morning and finally caught our planes. Due to many days of looking at different return options I can say I felt inspired as to what planes to book and the times of them. It was really the ONLY option to get home that night.

So many miracles over the past month. It's hard to describe how our faith in the Lord and his miracles has increased. I guess some could look at it and just say we were lucky or we had a hard working lawyer. But we know that through the prayers, fasting, and faith of us, our family, and hundreds of friends, and maybe even some people we don't even know that God heard those and answered them. We can never doubt this.

Marcelo has enjoyed a lot of firsts. His first plane ride, his first water fountain in the airport. He sucked on the fountain itself, I had to show him how to sip from the top of the stream, very cute. His first bathrooms with the automatic water on, handdryer, and flushers. His first home with a family in it. First older brother to share of room with. Him and Trey just layed there looking at eachother with the blankets up to their noses and a slight grin on their faces that first night. His first snow and really cold weather. His first bike, riding it outside, 39 degrees, with a cold drizzle on Christmas morning, he knows only one speed and that is FAST!

I'm sure Jill has some more firsts and I'll let her add those as they come. Thank you everyone again for all the help, prayers, and faith. It's so good to be home yet we miss a lot of our Ecuador experience. It seems as if it passed like a dream and here we are. What a blessing to know that God lives and loves his children. He is there always waiting for us if we will but come close to him and ask. May God bless you all.

2009-12-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we got his Visa yesterday by 10:30 a.m. I ended up doing a bunch of research on flights and bought 2 seperate tickets. One to Miami, and then Miami to Cincinnati. Couldn't find anything to Louisville. But the goal was to get home before Christmas morning. We even had enough time to stop by the Guayaquil Temple before catching our flight. It was a pretty crazy day. A lot of questions and stops to check passports when you're taking an Ecuadorian child into the states. After leaving and hour and a half late, going through immigration, customs, rechecking our bags (running through the Miami Airport), going through security again. We made it to Cincinnati at 11:55 p.m. My wonderful father picked us up and we were home at 1:30 a.m. When we went to look at all the kids they all woke up so we had a great reunion in the middle of the night. All the kids then slept well. We stayed up til 4 a.m. prepping for Christmas and before 8 this morning we were up. It has been wonderful to finally be together as a family after a year of working and expectations. The kids have all gotten along great and he loves being with Bryanna who just dotes all over him. So many miracles have happened along the way. I will share some in another post just to show how each day of impossibilities turned into sufficient each day to get us where we need to be to get to the next step. What we were told would be 6-8 weeks ended this morning at day 3 weeks, 6 days. We have seen the hand of the Lord in each step. Thank you all for the prayers and faith. It would not happened without it. Merry Christmas to everyone. What a great day to join together with all Christian faiths everywhere to recognize and celebrate the birth of our Lord, the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. We have felt the true spirit of Christmas this season more than any other. Thanks to all who followed this journey with us.

Rich and Jill

2009-12-24T04:15:00.000-08:00

So, I'm writing yesturdays update today. I couldn't keep my eyes open last night to write.
Yesturday, at noon, we got Marcelo's passport. It felt so good to finally get it. I say finally, but when I think we got his passport in one day it is amazing seeing we waited 6-8 weeks to get ours.
We went back to the hotel to say our goodbyes to some of the people who have been so wonderful to us. We also had a huge lunch there, since we didn't know when we would get to eat again.
When we thought that we would have to walk the couple of miles home,( because there were so many people out and about, and taxis were full and not going into the center of the city) we saw a truck from the airport sitting at the corner. Rich went to ask him if he could take us to the airport at 3:30. He ended up taking us to the house and picking us up. How wonderful.
In the meantime, Rich had to find a scanner and email a copy of Marcelo's passport to our lawyer. This isn't easy to do. Not alot of people have a scanner. He finally called our realitor and it all worked out with in 15 minutes of having to leave for the airport. Marcelo and I chilled at home while he was out. We went on to Lds.org and watched one of the little videos on Christmas and then we found where you can listen to the hymes. So we listened to some of the Christmas songs. He loved it and it relaxed him so much he fell a sleep.
As we were about to walk out the door to leave for the airport, I looked around the house. This place has been our home for the last month. In just a short moment of time so much as happened. We are leaving Marcelo's home town. I have grown to love so many things about this place. I love the warm greetings and the warm good-byes, the mountains, walking to places, so many people who have made our stay so nice and have helped in so many ways. A flood of emotions hit that I didn't expect. This whole experience has been such a growth for us all.
Before we knew it we were sitting at this very small airport waiting for our plane to get there. The plane was late. When Marcelo's eyes first saw his first plane his eyes just about popped out. It was so fun to watch. He had his first experience on a plane. I love the firsts of things. He did great.
Our hotel in Guayaquil is so nice. It is the first time we have had airconditioning in a month. Our queen bed isn't a true queen, but it is longer than the beds we have been sleeping in. AND, it is SOFT. Oh, the pleasures of life. This is the first time Marcelo has slept in air conditioning.
WELL, THE GREAT NEWS IS WE BOUGHT OUR TICKETS LAST NIGHT. WE ARE HEADING HOME AND WILL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is hard to believe we are at this point. Our lawyer was in Quito trying to get this certain paper done. The lady she was to work with was sick the other lady was out of town. Everyone she talked to said it ws impossible to get it all done before Christmas. But, she called yesturday morning with the paper in her hand. We told her we had many people praying for us. She told us that as she worked she could feel those prayers.
Thankyou you all so much for your prayers. They have been felt and it has allowed the impossible to be possible.
Today, we still need to get his visa done and some other things, but we are here. I can't believe it. I'm so excited to get home and be with all my other children. They have been so great through this whole thing. So strong!!! I appreciate everyone's help, love , and prayers. You have allowed this Christmas Miracle to be that much sweeter. I may never know all the people or all the things that took place during this adventure to help us. BUT, my heart will always be full of love and gratitude. Thank you and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-22T17:47:00.000-08:00

Crazy day 1 is now behind us. We woke up this morning and had to be at the "Registro Civil" at 8am. We met our two lawyers there. We ran around to different parts of the building for the first hour first getting Marcelo's birth certificate canceled, then a new one made with his new last name "NEAL". It took a lot of begging by our lawyers each step. Our main lawyer Ximena had a flight at 10am booked to Quito to begin the other parts of the process there but she needed to have certain information with her to do that. She didn't leave for the airport until 9:25 and the airport is 35 minutes away. When my phone rang with her number at 10:10 I prayed it wasn't to tell us she missed the flight, but instead she said how she was on the plane. If she hadn't made it there is no way we could be done by Christmas. In the meantime we finished all the paperwork there to find out they weren't doing new "cedulas" (identification cards) in our town all this week. We have to have that, to get his passport, to be able to fly home. The person in charge was out in the small towns to make identification cards for them. With a little talking and a very softened heart the main guy here in Loja told us we could go there and get it (45 min. drive to Vilcabamba). He was heading there, so he gave us a ride in the government issued truck, we pulled up with him where they were doing it, and we had his card within 40 min. Truly a miracle. We then rode the long, twisting, mountain roads back to Loja to go apply for his passport. The normally stop taking the applications at 12 noon. Thus the rush. We got there at 11:40. We finished all the application but had to go to the bank to make an official deposit and bring the receipts back before they could send the application to another town for the next day passport. We got to the bank and there was a line of at least 60-80 people. Somehow our lawyer went talking to people and got 3rd in line and we were out in 10 minutes. They got the application off at 12:15. Unfortunatly the town where they send the application electronically has its lights go out from 12-2, so they didn't get it until after that. They said it could be Thurs. before we get the passport which we told them was not possible because I have tickets to fly to Guayaquil Wed. evening. They said they'd make some calls. Please add prayers that we'll get the passport tomorrow and that our lawyer in Quito will accomplish everything that needs to be done so we can get our Visa Thursday morning, and we can get our behinds home. The rest of the day was pretty relaxed, drizzling a little. We went to the park and Jill was feeling a little under the weather also. We have seen the Lords hand continue to work with us and have faith that if we keep moving forward we'll see the blessings in front of us. We have started packing our bags. Hard to believe we are gettting this close. Love and appreciate you all.
Rich

2009-12-21T18:03:00.000-08:00

We sit here at 9pm. The electricity just went out which is weird. It normally only goes out between 4 and 6:30. Luckily we have a little juice left in the computer. It's been a pretty low key day. Tomorrow we get crazy trying to finish up the last bit of paperwork here in Loja. We went to the travel agency and reserved tickets to Guayaquil. We can't buy them yet because tomorrow we hope to have to get Marcelo's identification card with his new last name on it which is necessary to buy plane tickets. So here's what has to happen in the next 60 hours. We work here in Loja to get Marcelo's birth certificate cancelled with his old names, new one made, identification card made, and passport ready to go. In the meantime our lawyer her will be flying to Quito to meet with the main adoption people in the country to get a specific paper needed for his Visa. When all that is done we all fly to Guayaquil and meet our lawyer there, we then will go to the US Consulate and hope to obtain a Visa for Marcelo within a few hours time. Once all that happens we then will need to find last minute plane tickets to the USA hopefully on Christmas Eve in time to have Christmas with the whole family. Keep praying. We know all things are possible if it's the Lord's will. We feel like we've done all that we can now and we are letting it go and putting it into His hands. While Jill and Marcelo went to the park I went to get cash out of th e ATM. It took 5 different ATM's until I could get enough out. They aren't real reliable here. There's no guarantee they'll have enough money in them. After all that this morning we couldn't find a taxi home, everyone was full. I think a lot of people are in town for the holidays. So we walked the couple miles back to the house and relaxed.We also said goodbye to Rosa who has cleaned the house and done some laundry a couple times a week for us. I swear we are both standing at the same level in the picture. I felt a little under the weather and Jill as always took great care of me. She even made the herbal tea drink here that's called Horchata. It's very healing is what we hear. I do feel better now I must admit. Marcelo has seemed today to understand more fully that we're leaving and that yesterday was his last time seeing his friends for a while. He's had a couple sad moments but he's done well. He even seemed to be closer to us, in a more family way if that makes sense. He was really cute today washing the dinner dishes. He had on the gloves and my head flashlight (because the lights were out and we use it when it's darker in the house). It was really cute. It's been hard hearing all the kids at home have been sick with the flu. We are eternally grateful for all those who have helped with our kids at home. We know that we'll probably never know everyone who has helped us in so many ways and we wish we could thank everyone in person. We really feel blessed to have such great family, friends, and employees who have done and sacrificed for us. Thank you forever. We love you all and hope to see you soon.

Rich

2009-12-20T17:22:00.000-08:00

Today has been one special sunday for us. We got to go to church and witness another Primary program. Marcelo loves hearing all the primary songs. It is so nice to go and be strengthened. We then went home and had a first discussion with the missionaries and our friend, Jimmy. It is very interesting how Jimmy and us crossed paths. We had a bunch of electrical issues and he was the one who came to fix them. The next night we had more problems and he returned that night at like 9pm and worked until it was all fixed right. Rich shared with him today that we both felt very strong that we needed to invite him to come to our home for a discussion or go to church with us. The light of Christ shined through his eyes. What a good guy. He then told us that he had missionaries come to him months ago and he has read much of the Book of Mormon and Bible and he has been praying for some kind of sign or answer to know if he needed to move forward. He said he thought that we were that answer by talking to him and inviting him over with the missionaries. We ended our meeting with him saying the sweetest prayer on behalf of Marcelo. It was so tender for Marcelo for his life. I only caught bits of pieces of the whole conversation, but the spirit was so strong. (the two pictures are of us with Jimmy and the missionaries, Rich is realizing he doesn't look as young as the missionaries anymore.)We then went to the "Hogar" where Marcelo has lived. I got to see him in a whole new light. He was much more confident this time and I saw what a good helper he was. He really enjoyed seeing his friends and playing with him. We had a nice lunch with the hermanas. They showed us the beds with the blankets that Bryanna made for the kids. She made 13 blankets for them. The kids loved them. The most heart felt thing about today are stories that were told us about the kids. It will bring anyone to tears. The boy I'm holding in the one picture is the one that broke my heart the most. He has been there for two days. His mother left him with some guy who didn't feed him and abused him pretty bad. He is 2 1/2 years old and he is the size of a 1 year old. He can't walk, talk, or crawl. I know with a loving family and good care he would be a totally different child. I think I would have brought him home if I could. Makes me very thankful for the life and even the trials that I have. Kinda puts things into perspective. Last of all, we had our "good-bye" party (called a despedida) for Marcelo. We had cake and Marcelo handed out cake to all the kids. They had children's songs playing..it was a good fiesta. Then it was time to say goodbye. I don't have words to express how I felt. To see the hermanas, who have loved and cared for Marcelo and know him better than I do, have to say good bye to him. How does one express graditude to someone for being that "mother figure" for your child for his early years. It was a very tender moment, one I will forever hold close to my heart. Two of the hermanas drove us home to help with the transition. It helped for a while. Marcelo still grieves for his past life. I don't blame him. This is hard stuff. I'm full of emotion. I can't imagine all the stuff going through him. We told him today that he has so much family back at home and they all love him and are excited for him to come. We have been working on this, hoping it helps him. He gets really excited then the next moment he is a bit scared. I'm so excited for him. He has no full understanding of what awaits him. He is going to love it and he is going to be so happy with all his brothers and sisters. We feel so blessed, today. We feel the hand of the Lord in our lives blessing us, shaping us into what he wants us to be, and guiding us. It is a wonderful feeling, today.

jill and rich

2009-12-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

Today was another low key day. I think we are gearing up for a wild time on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Rich and Marcelo played serious hide and seek and they took a bunch of pictures of our house we have been renting. The one is a picture of his room he sleeps in and the other of him is the back where the laundry is washed and then hung to dry.

I got to fix a nice dinner, American style. I have to say with my limited resources it was pretty good. It is so fun to watch Marcelo eat. He loves to eat and when he is done he claims it by saying, "ya". I'm sure our other kids are going to get a kick out of it.

We went to the District Christmas special tonight. Rich was in the choir. You can see that he is much taller than everyone else. The funny thing is, so am I. It is the first. The picture of the older lady...well, I just had to get a picture of her. She is such a sweet lady and what a character (in a good way) She has been in the church a very long time. Probably, when there weren't too many around. Then the picture of the couple...they are the missionary couple. She put this whole program together. Before her, there wasn't ever a choir. She did an amazing job with them.

The spirit was so strong and sweet. It is just what I needed. I felt my heart soften and the love in my heart grow during this program. I have to say, it is the first program in the chapel that I saw tons of people taking pictures and then asked to give an aplause. It was a great experience and a great turn out. Bro. Harrison said that since they have been there that it was the second largest turn out since they have been here. The other was a General Conf.

When the night was done, Marcelo exclaimed that he wanted to go back tomorrow to sing songs. He really enjoys going to church. He also loves watching all the kids. He misses being around other kids. He will very shortly be able to be a kid with kids very soon. I think it will be so good for him.

I have felt your prayers and I really appreciate them. It is making a big difference. love you all

jill

2009-12-18T16:07:00.000-08:00

So today we pretty much chillaxed at home. It rained so Marcelo stayed home all day. He had a few moments of cabin fever but did pretty well. He and I played hide and seek for a while which was fun, Jill helped him hide and gave hints of where I was. It was really fun. I went out for a couple hours to go grocery shopping. We have found those are good moments for Jill to have the one on one she needs with him. I pretty much hung out at a bunch of stores to kill time, there is one American fast food restaurant by the grocery, it's the only one in Loja, ...that's right baby, Kentucky Fried Chicken. That and Daniel Boone are the only things people have to relate to when we tell them we're from Kentucky. I came home and all was well. He and Jill had gone through the pictures of the family on the computer and Marcelo was really excited about the Christmas tree from last year, Kiefer and Caleb's birthday with the cake and candles, the kids going to school, and the summer pictures of the pool. So much fun ahead for him. Jill went out in the afternoon for a little alone time. Yesterday and today are the first times she's walked out alone (don't worry Mom's, it's close to the house and very safe). She really enjoyed being alone for a while. So here's a fun story from a couple of days ago. Marcelo is loosing teeth at a very quick rate. He's only 5 and has lost 6 teeth, usually an 8 year old has lost that many. One of his front teeth was super loose, and having the dental itch going I kept trying to get him to let me pull it out, but he'd never stay still. It was hanging sideways at this point. He gets up in the morning, takes his bath, Jill is brushing his teeth, and out it pops! After all my hard work. Oh, well. It was a fun experience for them. He came running into the room and said, " Mom took out my tooth." So he now walks around with no front teeth. I guess we need to teach him, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth." We are just waiting now until Tuesday when the work can begin to get us moving. There is alot that has to happen between then and Christmas Eve. Appreciate and love you all.

Rich

2009-12-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

It's been a good day. Much more relaxing considering we didn't have to show up for any court appointments. We found out early this morning that many prayers have been answered. The judges heart was softened and signed the "sentencia" as of last night. That means what we thought was going to happen today or Friday was done as of Wednesday. That puts us a couple days ahead of time. With that news there is now a slight possibility if all things continue to go smoothly we can all come home together on either Christmas Eve or Christmas day. We are very excited at this possibility and recognize the hand of the Lord in this whole process. Keep the prayers going. We are so grateful for all of them. The only thing I had to do today was get some paperwork notarized, it was a much longer and intensive process than at home. Jill and Marcelo went to the park and fed the pigeons. He really loves that. Marcelo is starting to understand the that things are going on. We where talking about going on a plane and he said he didn't want to, I asked him if it was because he was afraid, he said "yea". He said he'd go if we sat by him and held his hand. He already has a connection to Trey and if we talk about going home he always asks if it's where Trey is. He also keeps asking if "Papa Noel" (Santa Clause) has come to the house yet. He really wants a bike for Christmas. As Jill and Marcelo where walking to the park he kept whispering to himself "Marcelo Francisco Neal Neal" in his cute latin accent. He's heard the lawyers talking about his name change a lot and obviously is working it all out in his head. Hard to imagine what the little fellow is going through trying to figure it all out. He is quite the cutie.

Hoping we'll be back to the comforts of our own home soon. The light at the end of the tunnel has begun to shine. We have felt so blessed. Love you all. Hope you enjoy the pictures that we are now able to post.

Rich

2009-12-17T15:47:00.000-08:00

We can now post pictures of Marcelo. I'll let Rich do the updates today, but I wanted to share our little Marcelo with you. He doen't like having his picture takin too much. I hope you enjoy.....

2009-12-16T17:45:00.000-08:00

I know I up dated the blog just a couple of hours ago. But, I just wanted to say that I got to talk to my kids tonight. They were all happy and it was so good. My spirits are so high and I have the feeling of hope again.
We even received a email with a picture of a great friend in front of our Christmas tree. It was too funny. I have missed having a Christmas tree this year. Words can't express how good it was to see MY (our families) Christmas tree.
Just wanted everyone to know I'm happy. Even with all the struggles..I'm happy. I couldn't say that yesterday or maybe even this morning. It is amazing how God and through the atonement how even through craziness one can still feel hope, love, and happiness. Live is Good....REAL GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Merry Christmas!!!!!!
Jill

2009-12-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

Well, it is official. We are now parents of Marcelo. The judge was nice when we went in and I have to say I'm sorry I said she had huge claws....she doesn't.
Yesturday, was a very high emotional day for us all. Marcelo hears things that go on and I think it makes him nervous and a bit scared. I'm sure he can feel of the high emotions and stress we have too. By the time last night came...lets just say the emotions had to release. This whole journey has been so hard. I have a friend that went through this not so long ago. I keep thinking of her strength and it helps me so much. I don't know how she did it and so much on her own. Of course, we are never alone, but still....
Marcelo, the past few days, has been better about his testing us. When he tests us.. it isn't like my other kids it is harder and much more difficult. Sometimes reading these books gets us so nervous about how we are handling things. He can be so sweet one second and the next he is testing us hard and the next he is so nice. It at times feels like whiplash and sometimes it is hard to have Christ like feelings :). BUT, we are all working at learning about eachother and like any family we love eachother even when we aren't liking eachother...Does that make sense?
Well, today we found a market that was crazy busy. We found New Moon in english. We will see the quality of it. :) After we walked around a bit, we were tired and went home to rest. We then went to the park. We fed the geese and did the padel boats again. He really likes that. We always get popcorn ($.30) and icecream($.60). who can turn that down when it is so cheap. It was a very fun day for us all.
I have felt a bit more strength, today. I can feel the prayers and of the blessings of the fasting from my family. We are making arrangements and planning things out for Rich to get home for Christmas. We skyped them yesturday. They are doing well, but my heart broke. I miss them and I could see in there eyes that they are running thin. They need at least one parent home.
Our sweet children decided not to have "Christmas" until we are all home together. It is a huge sacrafice on their part. My children are so kind and loving. My heart just goes out to them. I am so grateful for my many blessings. I love you all and I thankyou for your prayers.
jill

2009-12-15T14:44:00.000-08:00

Well here's the update. We finally went to meet and do signatures tonight at 4:30. It took all of 2 minutes to do. They ended up having to have someone read over all our paperwork and sign each piece and confirm it was translated correctly. Then the judge looked over everything and had them remove a coma that she didn't like the placement of. It was all pretty crazy. We meet with her tomorrow at 9a.m. It looks as if with these couple days of setback coming home before Christmas won't happen, but before New Years most likely. Still a lot of steps and traveling to go.
Our electrician came to the house and got the electricity fixed. It was interesting that finally yesterday we found out there is a hot water heater in the house, there was just no gas, so we do have hot water. I spoke with the electrician quite a while, and we spoke about the gospel and the church. I invited him and he accepted to take a discussion at our house on Sunday morning. Interesting the way things happen. I did go practice with the District choir and will be singing with them in their Christmas program on Saturday. There is a lot good going on. Just figuring out all the details. Thanks for the love and prayers. Things could have gone a lot slower today and because of the set backs here, our lawyer thinks they will move things quicker in the capital city because of it. Could be a blessing in surprise. Love ya.

Rich

2009-12-15T06:08:00.000-08:00

Quick one for you to update. We went to the Judges office, still could only see the secretary. She says now they want all the documents translated (which they already are), by an approved translator. Our lawyer said she's never seen this in 11 years. She left immediatly to go to find someone who can certify the translation. If they have to translate again it will be at least another week. Are you kidding me? And they've had the documents for a week and now tell us this. We are moving along, still praying, and appreciate all the prayers. We'll give the next play by play as soon as we know something. Love and hugs!
Rich

2009-12-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

Just to give a little update...We went to the lawyers office and they said that the judge's office door is shut and when it is shut NO ONE goes in or else. So, we walked over and our little brave lawyer ( I just love her) went in her office and pleaded for us. The Judge said there were 4 youth that got arrested and she is dealing with that for us to come back tomorrow.(stinkin youth, as my father in law would say) So we will have our signiture and court day tomorrow. Hopefully, the Judge will not put us off again. Our lawyer said if everything goes good and very fast we all might be on a plane on the 24th..
I'm fasting and praying so hard that miracles will happen and hearts to be softened and that people will work very fast....So, we can wake up with our whole family on Christmas.
I don't even want to think about trying to get tickets at the last minute on Christmas Eve.
I know God's hands are in our lives and I'm letting go and letting him to his "magic" :)
ON another note....Rich and I have been reading our book about bonding and the care of an adopted child. We are learning alot and realize some of the behavor of Marcelo isn't all what we might think...even like going to bed so good (which isn't so good anymore). The guessing comes into play because we don't know his past. I love the gift of the Holy Ghost and how it is guiding us. It is interesting how we are learning about Marcelo, but at the same time learning so much about ourselves. Sometimes that is nice, sometimes not so nice :)
Please pray for us......

2009-12-13T12:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday and Sunday's post

Saturday, after heating the water by boiling it and showering, I was able to talk to Jayme before she got married. It was so good to hear her voice and tell her I love her. After that, we went to the park. It is a big park with a lake. We did the paddle boat and went around the island in the middle, which has animals living on it. It was a fun day at the park. We were able to buy some nice things from Ecuador. Rich is very excited about his hammock he got for $18.
My spirits were higher this day and it was good to get out and walk and play.
Rich started getting sick. He had a dream that said he had strep throat...In fact he does. Lucky, he brought medicine down and started on it right away.
Early evening I had a half hour of the blues and I said a prayer and then I said to myself that I wished there was a Baptism I could go to. Five minutes later the couple here serving there mission called and invited us to a baptism. It was good to go and sing and enjoy Christmas songs too. It lifted all our spirits. Rich crashed when we got home though.
Sunday
We were grateful that there wasn't a band playing outside our house all night long. Instead, there was a party with loud music and laughter that started at 3:00 am till 6:00.
Marcelo is testing the rules and limits. Today I was using english, spanish and sign language to get my point across. I just hope he got the right point. I laugh about that. Who knows what he got out of it. It could be something totally off the wall. Ha Ha
We went to lunch at the Harrison's house(the married missionaries) They are so kind. It was the best meal I have had here. My tummy was very happy. We then went to church.They had their primary program. It being all about families, it was interesting to see the different reactions Marcelo had with different songs. The primary did a great job.
After sacrament meeting, Rich received a blessing. It was nice to have Bro. Harrison and the elders to help with this. I love being able to have these resources.
It is fun seeing the different ways of life and embracing it. We are all God's children and he loves us all. I love seeing it through people's eyes at church in a whole other part of the world.
Thank you everyone that is helping with my family. It gives a whole new meaning to the saying,"You have done it unto me" I love my family and miss them. It gives me great peace that there are so many people loving them. Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-11T13:14:00.000-08:00

So Jill sent me out for a while all alone. Walking the city streets. Jill's hand is doing so much better. Thank you all for the prayers and thoughts. I know her last post sounded like it's been a little rough, but she is doing great. She's a real trooper. I think we've both come to realize how much better we do as a couple than if we were alone. I look back on all that has been accomplished in our lives and I know I could never have done any of it without her. Marcelo really is doing well. He had a hard time with me leaving. With Jill not feeling well this week and Marcelo relying on my spanish he has a hard time when I'm not there. That's why I went out alone right now to do some errands. He and his Mom really need some time without me there to build the necessary bonds. He said today a couple times, "I want to go to the house where Trey is." I think he's starting to get it. He prays for all the kids each day and has all their names down with a very cute accent of course. The Ecuadorian people are a very kind and nice people. They have been very kind to us and we have felt very safe the whole time.
By the way, Jill definitly still has it. That girl is fine! And she's all mine! As far as whistling girls go....it's kind of like when you see a monkey at the zoo, you can't help but try to get their attention. I'm kind of this huge strange looking, albino, semihairless monkey. You can't help but get a few whistles that way. Love you all. thanks for all the help. Jayme, we are so happy for you getting married tomorrow, we are so sad also that we won't be there. You're like a daughter to me. Nathan, take care of her. Tons of love.

Rich

2009-12-11T07:52:00.000-08:00

ok. So, I decided to put a new front forward. The Lord sure does know how to try us when we decide to do so. Last night, all the outlets upstairs in our house are not working, now. After waking up this morning to some issues with Marcelo we realized since the outlets aren´t working either is the heater that provides hot water for the shower. Poor Marcelo had to take a very cold shower. I boiled water to try to make the water not so cold for a sponge bath for me.. Didn´t work so well. I stuck my head under the fauset to wash my hair. I never have felt my head freeze before. I told this to Rich and he has the same response when I say things like this...TWO YEARS BABY..TWO YEARS. I decide to laugh, because I then realize, OK I don´t have it so bad.
My mother in law sent pictures of my hand to a doctor, so we were able to know what kinda medicine to change to. My hand is still a little swollen on one side. The other has thick chunks of skin coming off with raw skin under it. Rich keeps saying in his funny voice,¨" NO ,I´M NOT AN ANIMAL." He always brings humor to my life. I do feel blessed to have the use of my hand now.
It is different trying to earn trust of a child and trying to always find ways to communicate and bond. It is emtional exhausting at times. When a birth child is upset with their mother, the mother still knows that they are still loved by the child. In this case, if Marcelo doesn´t want to hold my hand or is upset about something and having that language barrier....I´m not sure what he thinks. It is hard and I´m finding strength and sometimes selfesteem from the Lord.
Rich is amazing. He has been so helpful and loving to both Marcelo and me. He is a bit homesick, too. Although, feeling more and more comfortable getting around, he is wanting to visit his old mission ground.
We found out our signiture is on Monday and the lawyer is going to try to get our court day that same day. Our lawyer is trying so hard, I pray her efforts will pay off.
Love you all, Jill

2009-12-10T10:05:00.000-08:00

It is 1:00 but it feels much later. I have a couple of thoughts lately I'd like to share.
1. To become a taxi driver I think they have to go on a course and show how many times they can come close to death and not kill everyone in the car.
2. I realized this morning as I was making breakfast, that the trucks that drive around with tanks of gas on the back of them sound like the icecream trucks back home.
3. I'm glad I have a washing machine and dryer at home. Here they have concrete sinks outside to wash everything by hand. We hired a maid to do this for us, since I can not get my hand wet with soap. It makes it so much worse.
4. Walking in the college garden, Rich was a head of me. He passed by a bunch of students. He totally got whistled at by several girls, then they saw me and laughed. My husband still has it in him!!!!!!!!!!!!!! or it is also because he is the only white guy with blue eyes in the city :) I choose to think he still has it.
So, Last night I became very home sick. At night is when it all hits me, maybe it is because of the hardest bed I have ever slept in. Ha!!!! It is good to be in a house for Marcelo, but it is harder for me. It is someone elses house with some of their stuff in it, and a home is where my family should all be together. I was saying my prayer expressing my feelings to Heavenly Father when the words of Pres. Hinckley "forget yourself and get to work" came to my mind. So, I am making this public to give myself strength. I am now going to try harder in learning the language and speaking it to more people. I'm going to try and seek more guidance of how the Lord wants meto be and what I need to learn and do while I am here. Hopefully this helps.
I really do love the experience I am having. I love seeing different parts of the world, for some reason this is harder. I am feeling better with my hand and fever and all.
Marcelo is such a good helper. He wants to wash the dishes, set the table, and clear. He did have some of these jobs at the orphanage. He is always joking around and loves to sweet talk especially when he wants something..like...Mom, please can I have another one, beautiful (he says it in spanish) or "mi amor". Rich and I laugh just laugh. He is too funny and very out going once you have met him twice.
Last night we went to the foodstore and in the middle of shopping the lights went out and we had to leave the store without buying anything. They said to come back in 2 and a half hours and the lights will be back on.
This morning we went to the botanical gardens here. This place was so beautiful to walk around. This is when Rich got whistled at. I have to say it gave us both a good laugh and a huge selfesteem boost for Rich :)
We went to Marcelo's favorite place to eat lunch at the ..El Frogon.
I want to send my best wishes to Jayme as she goes through the temple tonight. I wish I could be there with you. May you feel my love with you tonight.
Jill

2009-12-09T09:35:00.000-08:00

I'm writing todays post early because we are leaving our vacation place and I don't know if we will have access to internet today.
We went to the zoo today to find out they decided to close it today. So, we decided to go to town to get icecream, they decided to be closed today, too. So, we walked around town and found some frozen treats. I had the great idea to walk back instead of taking a taxi. I got some great pictures, but it was sooo hot. The sun here is pretty powerful. In fact, I was sitting soaking the sun on my face (knowing soon I'll be going home to no sun and coldness) and a guy told me that the sun is strong and I needed a hat. They are probably thinking that crazy white girl :). We got to our room and I laid down. I still don't feel full of energy yet. It is silly how an infection on a hand can cause so many problems.
We talked to our lawyer today. She has all the paper work done that needs to be done to go to court. She told us we got assigned the toughest judge and the judge right now won't let her talk to her....So, please pray that the judge's heart will be very softened and she will feel the urge to move this forward very fast. We are hoping to have our signiture thing this Friday, but the looks of the judge it might be Mon. :(
Love you all, Jill

I hope you enjoy the pictures we posted today.

2009-12-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

Thought we'd try to add some photos of the trip so far.

2009-12-08T17:03:00.000-08:00

The place we are staying at I have decided to call it paradise. Everywhere I look is beautiful scenery and the pace here is slow and very laid back. This morning we went on a hike. It was beautiful weather and the mountains are beautiful green. I looked up and in the middle of a steep mountain I saw one cow just eating grass. For some reason I thought it to be humourous. The town part is to be said that it hasn't changed in a 100 years. It is old looking, but that is hard to imagine. On the drive to the hiking place I saw a outhouse with the door open and a toliet sitting in it. I saw several of these. Makes me grateful for my bathroom in my house.
We enjoyed the town and got some good gifts for our kiddos. I felt more of an outsider in this town. Not so many people and there were so many of them sitting or sitting getting drunk. It is more of a hippy place. Latinos and white hippys.
I feel a bit better today. My hand is still swollen on one side and the other feels like my skin is crcking open when I move it..oh yeah it is cracking. I have some pictues I will post.

Marcelo I think is getting it more and more about having parents. He has asked if his friends are getting parents. He has said he doesn't want to come to the house in the picture, which is our home in Kentucky, but then he says," Oh you can play there!" He has said several things that tells us that he is getting there, but still nervous.

Today I had to work hard to bond with him. The last couple of days of not felling well, Rich has been with him a lot. This afternoon he pretty much didn't want anything to do with me. So I locked Rich in the room (to let him nap) and Marcelo and I played with playdough. Then we all had a great dinner. Their chicken down here is so good. The lights went out in the middle of dinner, so it was by candle light. By the time we were done, it was dark, and when it is dark Marcelo is all about going to bed. We have to try hard to keep him up til 7:30. He usually wants to go to bed around 6 or 6:30....then he is dead to the world. What a funny kid.

Thankyou all for your comments. They are very strengthening to us. It is something we look forward to. We love you.

PS: We added some pictures to some of the older posts as well.

Jill

2009-12-07T17:27:00.000-08:00

We are sitting here on our balcony in the middle of no where (or so it seems), It is so peaceful. This little town of Vilcabamba is a place of healing. They say people who live here live long lives. When people who have high blood pressure and heart problems come here they get better. I was sad that when we got here I was such a party pooper. I started getting a fever again and a little dizzy and all I could do was sleep. Rich and Marcelo have had some good bonding time by Rich having to care for him so much since I have been sick. They went into town and got some medicine for my hand and got icecream. It is nice to get steroid cream over the counter without a prescription. :) They have this "healing" drink made of 15 herbs that is to bring health to the body. It must be working because I feel better tonight.
Rich and I had the fun experience of the lights going out in the whole city. You should have seen us getting around a strange place in the dark. Luckily I had my watch that you could get a little light from and we found out Rich's phone had a light on it. It was still funny trying to get around the bathroom with very little light to no light. Lots of laughs were going on. We ended up on the balcony enjoying the very peacefull sounds of earth and it being still.
I have had a neat experience about Christmas. I always thought that for it to feel like Christmas it was about the tree, lights, baking, music, family and so on (which they are wonderful ) But not having any of that...I have relied on reading the scriptures and the Ensign and singing the Christmas songs to Marcelo at night. Life as been more still and peaceful. I just wish I could enjoy this with my whole family.
I love you all and hope you are having a merry Christmas season.
Jill

Sunday-Monday

2009-12-07T10:29:00.001-08:00

Wanted to give a mid-day update. I know Jill will update tonight as well. We went for our first visit back to Hogar Maria Bordoni yesterday. Marcelo wasn't sure how to fit back in. He played with his buddies and really enjoyed seeing them. Whenever we looked at him he wouldn't look at us. The sisters there showed us some videos of all the kids when they were little so we could pick out Marcelo when he was little. Very cute and fun to see him through the different ages. It was very difficult for him to leave, harder in fact than when we left the 1st time. Probably because he knew better what would happen. He was emotional the whole car ride home, but within minutes of being back in the house with us, he was great and slept great. He's probably like us, not sure what to do with his two lives and how they exactly go together. Jill's felt a little under the weather also, she had some excema start on her hand as we were coming down and her hand is now red and swollen. Last night she started with a little fever. I started her on some Amoxicillin I just happened to bring :) so we're hoping to see how it does by tomorrow. Scary not being at home with the comfort of our own doctors close. Please pray for her. She probably wouldn't have told so I am. This morning we left the house and came to Vilcabamba, a small touristy town in the mountains. A fun hour drive, cruising around curves, passing Trucks on curves, and of course no seatbelts...gotta love it. We're staying the next couple of days in a little resort, the pool needs to be cleaned, the jacuzzi is empty, but it's very quiet, cool, and a nice little rest. We also found out that today and tomorrow are holidays in Loja, so the paperwork doesn't go anywhere from until Wednesday. The waiting has been the hardest for sure. If things continue this route, we won't be home before Christmas or just I will be. I hate the thought of leaving Jill alone here, but we know enough people in each town that I feel better now than I did. We are still praying and hoping for the miracle. Please join with us. Love you all and miss you.

Rich

2009-12-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

Today is Sunday. We were so excited to go to church and join our friends back home in an united fast for dear friends. What a good feeling to walk into church and have greeted by an older couple serving a mission. They were so nice.
The branch is small but has doubled in the last 8 months. The primary has 11 kids there. The people were so nice. We had so many kind brothers and sisters come up to us and say "hola".
Rich was asked to say the opening prayer and has been invited to sing with the disrict in the Christmas devotional on the 19. He just can't escape. It feels good to be able to help out though.
I loved taking of the sacrament, singing Christmas songs in spanish, and hearing of the sweet testimonies. True, I didn't understand alot. I caught a little here and a little there, but the spirit was so strong. I left feeling spiritually strengthened.
I'm so grateful for the gospel aand for my savior, Jesus Christ. He is the source of my strength.
Jill

2009-12-06T08:33:00.001-08:00

I am adding the post for yesterday. We are fully moved into a house now and are having a good time being in a home. We thought it would be a lot more quiet than being in a hotel with tons of people watching soccer late at night. Our first night there (Fri. night) there was a bunch of people having a party on the balcony outside our bedroom window. They were playing guitar and bongos and singing until about 6:30 in the morning. The bed is small and hard. Needless to say we didn't sleep great. We miss the conveniences of the hotel like consistent hot water and access to the internet. But we feel it's good for Marcelo to be in a home like environment to help the transition when we get home. Plus we are able to cook food. We have found a couple supermarkets that have a lot of the food we like. Marcelo is a great eater and tries everything.
We went to the Zoo yesterday and saw a bunch of animals we've never seen before. We wrote down their spanish names so we can figure out what they are in English. It was fun and you can get a lot closer to the animals in cages than you can in the US. We also bought him his first pair of new shoes which is a big deal because he still holds on to his original shoes because they bring him comfort. We spent a calm night at home and are getting the hang of it. There is a Christian church of some sort that has had concerts the past couple nights until about 11. They play some heavy rock music. Pretty wild! We've really missed the kids and comforts of home now that we've been gone over a week but are grateful for the one on one Marcelo is getting. It's the only time we have so we're trying to utilize it the best we can. On Monday we are going to a little resort town that everyone says is beautiful so we hope to have some great photos and fun for a couple days. We love and miss you all.

Rich

2009-12-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

Today has been a crazy day. We moved into a house. We felt it would be better for Marcelo to have more room to play and to for him to feel more of a home life instead of living in a hotel. We don´t have internet there yet so we are sitting in an internet cafe doing this. It´s all good and we´ll get it figured out. We went to the grocery and poor Jill was having a hard time finding anything she was familiar with. We did get some Oreo´s so we aren´t quite as homesick anymore. Marcelo blossoms each day, he talks all the time and is having fun non stop. We feel very blessed, he´s happy, obedient, eat´s great and trys everything, and sleeps wonderful. We feel like we could just jump a plane and come home but there´s a lot more legal steps to go. Loving and missing our kids. Marcelo did ask for the first time to see his brother Trey. Hopefully we´ll get the computer working. He told Jill he loved her and she was a treasure today so all is well. Love you all.

2009-12-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

Today has been a remarkable difference than yesturday. Marcelo has been in such a good mood. He has been playful, talkative, and very much kidding around with us.
Yesturday he was very attached to Rich, but today it has been equal. This has made me happy. Yesturday, I felt frustrated with the language and very much of an outsider in everyway. I felt a healing today after I said my morning prayer. I even talked to someone in Spanish(a whole sentence without Rich's help or correcting me :) ) I do talk in broken sentences, but it has been difficult for me. I realize my spanish is good for basic needs and for a child. I did have a great teacher that gave me a good foundation. So, I'm building on it, slowly (or so it seems)
It was really neat when we did skype with the kids today. Marcelo was playing around with them. They would say he was "bonito". then Marcelo would say "feo", which means ugly. It was pretty funny. He really enjoyed Trey ( Marcelo has been excited that Trey is the same age).
So, things were going great til I wasn't thinking and showed a video of him and me playing. He realized it was at his school and he got really sad for awhile. BUT, he found comfort when we were putting his pjs on and he would not put on his top. He did put on my t-shirt that I wear as a pj top and he liked it. It was so cute, especially when he tucked it in (talk about a huge bulge).
We spent our day looking at a couple of places to rent. We are moving to a 3 bedroom apartment/house place tomorrow. It is alot cheaper. It will be nice to have more space for him to run around.
Rich and I have been a bit home sick. We at times feel like we have 2 families and lives. I look forward to being able to unite these two lives into one. I pray it will be sooner than later. Love you guys. We can feel of your prayers and have felt miracles from them. hasta manana.

First Night Away

2009-12-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

Today has been a day to remember. Today is Marcelo's first night away from the Hogar. When we arrived he was already emotional and not wanting to leave. It was a quick pick up and go. Poor little fella isn't sure what he wants. We spent the morning in a beautiful park playing. He calmed down after a few minutes there and we had a good time. He continued to ask through the day when are we going back. We felt being honest and sensitive is the best option. He would get emotional, but he clung to us and allowed us to comfort him which is a really good thing. The park had animals in it, a beautiful lake that we took a paddle boat on (he wasn't real fond of going out on the open water). In the middle of the lake was an island we paddled around that had caged monkeys, flamingos, turtles, rabbits, and a peacock on it. Pretty cool. The weather has been great, low 70's all the time. You forget though how strong the sun is on the Ecuator since we're in the mountains. Just saying: sweet farmers tan!
The afternoon went well and as the night approached reality kicked in for sweet little Marcelo. It was a rough go of it when we first got back to the hotel and he realized we weren't really going back. As we held him in our arms and he slowly calmed down I offered a prayer in spanish. Truly a miracle took place as he calmed down, took off his shoes and jacket (big deal because he had refused to before because it meant not leaving), we colored a little, and he went in his bed, Jill said her first prayer in spanish (she did great), and he was asleep within 5 minutes. He is now peacefully slumbering beside us. We're so grateful for the power of prayer. We are emotionally exhausted and think of how our little Trey who is the same age would react if someone took him from his home and said "you're staying with us". Knowing the outcome for him is what keeps us going. We hope each day will continue to improve and his trust and love for us will continue to grow. But before we jump to tomorrow we hope tonight will pass peacefully as well. Thank you all for your comments. They continue to encourage and lift us. We love and appreciate all who are sharing this with us.

Rich

2009-12-01T15:48:00.000-08:00

Dec.1 and all the Christmas is being put up in the city. At the corner of our hotel there are tons of decorationas and a huge manger.....very pretty.
Since it is "sports week" here we wake up every morning at 6:30 to the music to start the games. We aren't getting great sleep, in fact we slept in different beds last night hoping it would help, but it didn't. We have gone to a king size bed to a double size and no air conditioning. All is good though.
Today, we got to go out on our own with Marcelo. He was very nervous at first, but ended up relaxing and enjoying us. We taught him 1 2 3 Jump in English. It is so cute how he says it. Marcelo is a big boy....a heavy boy. So, my arms are getting a huge workout.
We got to walk around a lake, go to some shops, we ate lunch, and we went back to our hotel room to allow him to get used to it. He did really well. I think I am over dosing him on sugar, though :) He loves smarties, fruit snacks and suckers. He especially loves the water bottles. He drinks them nonstop.
It is amazing how this has been so emotional for us all. I woke this morning thinking, " what are we doing to this boy, taking him away from everything he knows. Life is going to be so different, Am I really ready for this." Then I thought, "Oh, I have thought this with each child." Funny how that works.
Tomorrow he comes overnight with us and we won't take him back to see the "hogar"for several days. I think he will be ready tomorrow. Today, he wanted to go with us when we left, but he is still holding on a bit to his security. It should be really interesting tomorrow night. This poor 5 year old boy is having to make life changes. It is alot to ask of a child. It is like the Hermana said, " It is tough at first but it is good for them in the long run."
She compared it to a plant...It is hard on a plant when you move it to another spot, but soon it is given what it needs to grow big and strong. Marcelo is a strong, brave boy. I just pray he can feel our love and feel peace and comfort even when he is scared.

Ecuador Day 2

2009-11-30T18:31:00.000-08:00

It has been another full day. We did finally realize that the breakfast buffet was included as part of our stay so we finally ate a good breakfast. We were off to see Marcelo at 8:30 this morning. He was much more ready to see us and spent the first hour on our laps coloring or playing with cars. It was very relaxing and we can feel him coming closer to us. We played with sidewalk chalk that we had brought and traced eachother as you may be able to see in the picture. We fed the chickens, geese, and even a stray cat some popcorn which he loved. All the other kids were at school, it's the "semana de deportes" which is like field day at school all week long. We went to the school and watched whih was fun. They played basketball and soccer, it was good to know basketball has been introduced.

After lunch we returned and he was waiting for us with a big smile. Marcelo is much more comfortable walking farther from the home and exploring the grounds with us. Yesterday he looked back a lot making sure others where around. Today his comfort level has definitly increased. It's a unique experience bonding with a 5 year old who you only met a couple days ago. And yet the bond and love begins as it does with any child, with sacrafice and hard work. We've seen that love can trancend both language and culture. It's not measured in outward appearances or money. We have been awakened to the need to spend more time and energy with all of our kids. So many times other things take precedent that the kids are the last to receive whatever energy may be left. It was a very good day and there may be a chance he comes to the hotel with us tomorrow and sleeps away from the only home he's know. As we left today he told us for the first time "te amo", "I love you". It was very sweet and sincere and he was much more comfortable as we left knowing we'd return.

Thank you all for your prayers. We surely feel them and need them. May God bless us all especially as we enter in this Christmas season. May we all remember the child born in Bethlehem who taught us that sometimes we have to leave the ninety-nine to go after the one. There are a lot of "ones" out there. We love you all and think of home often. Carry on!

Rich and Jill

2009-11-29T17:20:00.000-08:00

What an emotional and wonderful day. We met with the local social worker and our lawyer this morning. They prepped us on what to expect and an approximate time line of things to expect. Before we knew it (like within 30 minutes) they said, "all right, lets go". We of course had a bunch of emotions, excitement, nervousness, and happiness all mixed together not really knowing what to expect. The orphanage (Hogar Maria Bordoni) is only about 5 miles from our hotel. It's up the mountain and has an amazing view of the whole city of Loja. We kept imagening this small town up in the mountains but there are over 100,000 people that live in the city. We're at about 8000 ft. above sea level and the clouds hang over parts of the mountain peaks. Absolutely beautiful. Upon arriving we sat down and met with the nuns prior to meeting Marcelo. A few minutes they brought him out. He was emotional and anxious wondering if we were taking him immediatly. But after playing a little and going outside he warmed up very quickly. We played on the playground at the Hogar and as we left for lunch the main nun Hermana Conchita said, "give your Mom and Dad a hug and he came over and even gave us both kisses on the cheek. A very sweet and heartwarming moment for us. We came back after lunch and he met us at the door. We took a walk to his school and met his teachers. They showed us some of the work they have been doing and he showed us where they play. It was fun to get away from the Hogar and see where he goes for school. We went back and played with balloons and bubbles we had brought. They were a hit with all the kids. He is now calling us Mami and Papi whenever he wants to show us something. By the end of the afternoon we had quite a few quiet moments with just him walking, coloring, or reading to him. It was nice since we have had all the kids following us around. They are so sweet and precious. As we were leaving Marcelo sat in Jill's arms and kept saying, "no te vayas, no te vayas", which means "don't leave, don't leave", it was very emotional and also rewarding to know he felt that closeness after just one day. We are so blessed that he has been in this place where he has received wonderful teaching and most importantly they have given the children love. What a great day.

We got back to the hotel exhausted but got to talk to the rest of our kids via skype. It was great to see them. We miss them so much as well. I was emotional seeing them as my perspective of the importance of family has changed since the day began. What a blessing a family is!

Rich

P.S. We can't post pictures of Marcelo until we're all home, but there are a few back shots and scenery that we'll post. Thanks everyone, we love you all.

2009-11-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

We were told to be at the airport at 3:30 for our 5:45 flight, just to find out the doors didn't even open til 4:30. So, after getting about 2 hours of sleep at our friend's home(they were so nice) we waited at the different part of the airport. On our way to Loja we saw part of the Andes mountains out the window of the plane(so beautiful).
The picture of Rich and I lookin very tired is us on the plane. We arrived in Loja to a one lane runway and it didn't look very long, But all was well. We stepped out to the most fresh smell I have ever smelled. We drove 40 min. to the actual city of Loja. We both collapsed on the bed for a very long nap....We walked around the city. It is so beautiful. The other picture of us is at the "gate" for the city. We then went to watch a soccer game that a bunch of guys were playing. We are so excited to see Marcelo. We are having to wait till tomorrow to see him, but we feel it has been nice to have a rest day before we start our wonderful adventure.

Sarah's 8

2009-11-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sarah turned 8 in November. This is an exciting time because she got baptized. She was so excited and ready. I have never seen another kid so excited and focused on getting there and having this neat experience. She got baptized by her Daddy. Her friend, Spencer, got baptized too by his Dad, too. It was nice to visit with family and celebrate this special day.
Sarah is suchh a fun girl. She keeps all laughing and keeps us on our toes. She doesn't miss a beat. Her heart is so tender and sensitive, although she tries so hard to be strong. One thing I admire about Sarah is that when she wants to learn how to do something she gets focused and tries and tries until she can get down. She has shown this by learning to do the splits, cartwheels, and jump rope. She feels like she is so small, but I say her spirit is more of a giant. I love Sarah so much....she is my angel.

2009-11-27T09:07:00.000-08:00

Ok Rich and I decided to keep a blog on our new adventure of bringing another boy into our family through adoption. We are leaving today for Ecuador to get our son Marcelo. He is in Loja. We started this journey a year ago. It has been such an amazing process. I have felt the Lord's hands in my life guiding us in every step. I have learned so much about children and being a mother. I have learned to trust those "special feelings" and trust in the Lord.
It has been such a rollercoaster of emotions this past week. I have prepared my home for me being gone for so long and realizing I will be gone from my kids for so long. ( I really love them).
I am emotional of missing my sister's wedding and missing the Christmas season at home. I love this time of year.
We related the story to our kids of how Christ left the 99 sheep and went to go get the ONE. I have a different understanding of the emotions that come with that. How sad to leave the others knowing what you will miss, loving them, but knowing that you love this one that is lost and how important to bring this one home.
The kids really liked that. Knowing if they were or ever lost we would do what ever it took to bring them home. Marcelo is apart of our family and we are so excited about bringing him home.
I hope he can and will feel our love and excitement to have him in our family. I wonder how he will adjust to a whole new life. He is losing everything around him that is familiar to him. I can't imagine what that is like for a 5 year old boy. He is my little hero.

2009-11-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

I wanted to update on Kiefer and Caleb. I didn't get to write on their birthday and I couldn't update until I spoke a few words of praise to these two good and funny boys. I think back 4 years ago and how tired I was and how it was all about survival caring for two babies and now I look at us now and I am amazed. I love these boys so much. They are so sweet. I love watching them play together, how they know what the other is going to say, how they watch out for eachother, and how they love eachother.
Kiefer is so silly. It seems like he is always doing something goofy, coming up with funny sayings. He loves dora and diego. He loves to eat all day. He loves his sweets. Kiefer loves playing with his brothers. Kiefer loves to play games on the computer and on his sister's DS. Kiefer also just loves his baths as well. He will play all day in the bathtub if I let him. Such a fun boy.
Caleb is so sweet. He loves helping. He helps bring in groceries, fold clothes, put socks away in drawers(not matched up, but who can correct such sweetness), cooking.....you name it he is helping. He loves to color and really use every color and so neat about it. (kiefer uses one or two colors and it is everywhere :) ) Caleb is such a loving brother and at the same time such a boy. He loves to see how fast he can run. What a fun boy.
Needless to say I really enjoy having these two boys home with me all day. I feel very blessed to be their Mom.

2009-03-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, Bryanna Turned 12 on March 16. I can't believe my oldest baby is 12!!!!! I don't think I could ask for a better oldest child. Bryanna is so helpful and obedient. She sets a great example for all of us.

Bryanna loves music, loves to read, to take fun pictures of herself (like the one that is posted), she likes to cook and eat icecream when she babysits. I love watching her do ballet. I also love watching her confidence and her knowing who she is. That is a gift. She is very kind and thoughtful of others. I love the notes that I find in the house that she has written to her sisters. She loves making things a "special" event, even if it is just watching a movie.She is also a wonderful friend to others(kind, helpful, fun, and positive). I enjoy Bryanna and all that she brings into our family. She is my JOY!!!!!!

2009-03-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Here is my Savy!! She turned 10 on Feb.27. Yes folks she reached the double digits. Savy makes my heart swell with her kindness and thoughtfulness. I admire how she thinks things out trying to make things special for other people. She is a girl that likes order in the small details. She is a great organizer and enjoys making things pretty. I love how she can lose herself into her imagination by herself and with her siblings. She gives the tightest hugs that make you almost fall over at times. She is graceful. She is a very sweet sister.Her brothers and sisters are lucky to have her to play with and have her read to them... She is a JOY. I love being her mommy!!!!!

2009-03-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

OK!! Rich and I went on a cruise with a bunch of friends down to Mexico...We went for a week and had a blast. Talk about returning to our youth. Leaving all work and stresses behind and having good clean fun for a week with good friends. We got to see other countries. We did a zip line which was huge for me, Rich got to sing his heart out at karaoke nights, we got to snorkel, lay on the beach, and eat so much good food that our bellies were very happy. So, it was well worth it and it was so good to be with my favorite man for a whole week and not have to share him. Call me selfish, but I really enjoyed it.....too much fun.

2009-03-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

This is our TREY TREY. Isn't he a real cutie. This is him on his 5th Birthday on Feb.5th. I wanted to share of my JOY of Trey. Trey holds a special place in my heart. He is so sweet and loving. He is always telling me how I'm the best MOMMY! (what mom doesn't want to hear that). He is a very smart and courious boy. He loves his siblings and doing AOKs for them (he learned this at school...acts of kindness). He also reminds me of a monkey., how he can hang and move around. I don't know of any one who can look like rubber as he moves around bouncing into things like a pingpong game. It is so funny. A real gift :) I am really blessed to have such a great boy named TREY. I love you Trey!!

2009-01-19T16:43:00.000-08:00

Tonight we got news that was an answer to our prayers. Trey's heart was healed to the affect he doesn't need surgery. DID YOU READ THAT!!!!! TREY DOESN'T NEED SURGERY!!!!! THANKYOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR PRAYERS AND FOR THOSE THAT FASTED FOR US!!!!

So, he still has a heart murmur, but he needed surgery because his heart was enlarged...etc. His Doctor looked at his recent x-ray (after our fast) and he thought he had the wrong x-ray. It looked like a different heart. It was no longer enlarged. My heart is very full with gratefulness and wowed by the miracle Trey was blessed with. It has been an emotional road for me, but the Lord gave me peace and hope through it all. I'm grateful for Prayer, Fasting, and the Priesthood. So, thankyou, thankyou, for your prayers and fasting and your thoughts on our behalf. I thank God for tender mercies. Miracles do happen sometimes big sometimes small. I wonder how many miracles the Lord gives us and we don't even see them.........I'm grateful for this one and the many others I witness in my life and others. I'M SOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!

Trey's response was priceless. When we told him his heart was healed and all the fasting and prayers were answered and that we needed to thank Heavenly Father.. Trey fell off the couch on to his knees and started to pray thanking God for healing his heart. Then Trey comes up to me and said, " Jesus put his hand on my heart and said MAKE YOUR HEART CLEAN."

What a special experience for our family. I'm grateful for the lessons and testimony my children (our whole family) have gained from this.

2009-01-15T06:32:00.000-08:00

Bryanna, came home from school yesterday screaming with excitement. She won a $250 visa card. How cool is that. She could have gotten a I-phone, but knowing she isn't allowed to have a cell phone she picked the money card. Good choice, Bryanna. So, now she is making big plans of what she is going to buy. Then Dad comes home and teaches the law of tithing. It is a good reminder of how little we have to pay and how much more we are blessed with. How grateful I am for Bryanna winning this fun reward. She is such a good girl and a hard worker. I'm glad she can have a bit of fun...guilt free. It is the best!!!!! Congrats Bryanna and have fun..I think she just might try to go see wicked :)

2009-01-15T06:21:00.000-08:00

So, one of the mornings after not having much sleep Bryanna knocks on our door saying Savannah has a hair situation. Rich gets up because of the lack of sleep I've gotten. Five minutes later Rich comes in and says"You may want to come out here." This is what I found. Savannah's hair twisted all up in a small comb. We have no idea how she did it or where the beginning of her hair began. We cut up the comb to try to pull her hair out has she is crying and sometimes screaming in pain. We have no idea what to do. Will we have to send her to school with a comb in her hair:) We cut her hair...Thank goodness the cut hair is under some long hair. How lucky is that. All before 7:00 am.

2009-01-15T06:13:00.000-08:00

I know this picture should be the last in the order of things, but this is how it ended. Our sweet Trey after surgery, after he was screaming in pain, after mommy and daddy had no idea how to help their sweet boy, after the nurse gave him a very nice dose of medicine to make him go sleepy. This is Trey's favorite picture. We really love this boy and all that he is.

2009-01-15T05:59:00.000-08:00

So , here is Trey before his surgery to get his tonsils out. He is showing us that he is incredible hulk. Cute guy. So, after telling the nurse that he was being Mr. sneaky and had 4 fruit loops we had to push the surgery back 4 hours. So, we started entertaining the little guy. So, here is a picture of me trying to get him to look at his daddy without moving his head just his eyes. Then it was daddy and mommy's turn. Yes, he took the picture of us. He was ordering me to look at Rich only with my eyes. "Mom, don't move your head." Rich and I just laughed.

2009-01-04T17:17:00.000-08:00

TODAY WAS THE FIRST DAY OF NO MORE NURSERY!!!!!! Yes, that is right Kiefer and Caleb started primary. As you can tell they were very excited and happy to be there. They even had their good friend Vance rubbing Kiefer's back giving comfort. Is it hard to think that these boys will some day be our priests. They are a good group of boys....some of the "2000" stripling warriors if you ask me. How I love my boys. It is hard to think of them getting so big... no more babies..well...I guess you could say they will always be my babies.

2009-01-04T17:09:00.000-08:00

So, once a year we take a trip to the mall. This year it wasn't so bad. We did bribe them. We told them that if they were good and listened they could play at the big boat. It worked for the most part. We did have to throw in some chocolate, too. They sure know how to play hard ball :)

2008-12-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

The difference between boys and girls.....Kiefer burnt his finger on the curling iron. The next day he gets a huge blister on his finger. Rich gets his finger clippers out in the middle of the parking lot at the movies. Rich goes to pop the blister(this is when the girls would scream and cry just at the thought). So, Rich pops the blister and pushes the yucky fluid out and shows Kiefer. Kiefer then says in his most "big boy" voice "AWESOME". We all busted up laughing. So, that is the difference between boys and girls.

After Christmas morning recovery

2008-12-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

While the kids were wide awake and playing Jill made a GREAT breakfast. Wrapping paper shrapnel filled the room. By the end we were tired but glad to wear our matching sweaters we had gotten eachother for Christmas (not planned). It was a great day.

2008-12-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning is always fun! The kids waited "patiently", then we read Luke II before any presents are opened. Then...it's go time. The kids were all grateful and have been playing for 3 days straight. This is when it's really fun to have 6 kids!

2008-12-27T12:17:00.000-08:00

Minrath Family Christmas gathering at our house. (Jill's Mom's side of family). Lots of food, family and fun of course was involved. Grandma Minnie is the Matriarch of the family and was moving great just weeks after her hip replacement. Did I mention she's 90 :)

Visiting Family

2008-12-27T12:09:00.000-08:00

Visiting with Neal and Shelton Families for the Holidays.

2008-12-27T12:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas Caroling at The Richwood Nursing Home with G-ma.

Ballet Tea Party

2008-12-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

2008-12-10T17:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight we got to go to Bryanna's band concert. She plays the Oboe, which is a very difficult instrument. She and one other girl are the only people in the middle school to even play that instrument. She did a great job. We enjoyed watching her. We even had to sacrifice by sitting on the hard, wood, and very uncomfortable bleachers. It was all worth it, Bryanna. We love you.

Reflections of the year 2008

2008-12-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

As I look back over my last year from last Christmas to now I am very grateful for the blessed year my family has had. We have had family gatherings, family visiting us , sports, races, ballet, choir , church activities, family trips, celebrating everyone's birthdays, and even finally feeling that our new house is our home now.

I feel the love and the watchful care of my Heavenly Father over my family and friends. I am very grateful and I am enjoying the gifts the Lord has given me.

I'm grateful to the Christmas Season to be able to focus on my Savior and celebrate Him and His birth.

May God watch over us and our loved ones throughout this season and into the new year whatever it may bring to us.

Merry Christmas!!