tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61119205235627406892024-02-20T02:05:06.001-08:00Follow that Dream of Adoption to BulgariaPamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-7503882080259216722013-07-23T23:17:00.000-07:002013-07-23T23:17:58.351-07:00Sign Sealed and Delivered<br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Time is flying!! Our Gotcha
Day has been one month ago, we traveled in June to reunite with our twin girls –
Amazing! </span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here we are Baby<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;">Signed, Sealed , Delivered, I’m yours<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;">You got my future in your hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;">Four more Hands, Four more Feet, Our Family is now
Complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Keath and Teresa made an Awesome Welcome Home Banner!!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The girls were marvelous on our journey home – way better than I ever
imaged. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As they say Zoom Zoom America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
made it home safely and tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are
settling in for a Wonderful Life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More
to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-63492884981235902522013-05-25T21:55:00.000-07:002013-05-25T21:55:50.231-07:00Shout!!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">Well, you know what makes me wanna SHOUT! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">Kick my heels up and SHOUT</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">Throw my hands up and SHOUT</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">Come on Now - </span><span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">I'm SHOUTING OUT!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">We made it through court and those sweet girls are now officially our daughters. WooHoo!!!!! "Vesta" contacted us Thursday giving us the good news and to say they are now waiting on our adoption decree so they can give us the go ahead on travel plans - booking flights. So, we are now looking to make last minute flight reservations during prime time summer travel - YIKES!!!! Are they worth every penny - YES - I do think our agency along with Vesta should schedule pick up travel dates as soon as they know your court date - instead of waiting till court was successful and giving you dates that leaves us scrambling to book airfares. Everyone seems to act like this is okay.</span><span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;"> I guess no one really cares AP are paying premium rates for airfare - it's not their money - it's ours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">We are so excited and looking forward to our pick up trip. We can't wait to get them in our arms - holding them tight - giving these girls many hugs and kisses. It is hard to even image. We have been very fortunate to be able to Skype with them and they have caught many of our kisses already. Their foster mother is awesome and gives us many opportunities to Skype. This has helped in so many ways for us and them - bonding - familiarity - excitement. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">Please keep us in your prayers as we will travel and </span><span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">unite as a family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: small;">We are following that dream. </span></div>
Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-958996042479605892013-04-30T19:29:00.000-07:002013-04-30T19:29:18.984-07:00It's a Small World<span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I've
spent the last 4 days watching World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando
Florida. My niece, Ashlyn, is so so good and performed just like a champion -
everything was awesomely wonderful - with lots of screaming. LOL This World
Championship competition brought so many people here from all around the world - all every
talented!!!!! Disney World was magical day and night. It's a small world after
all. There is just one moon and one golden sun and a smile means friendship to
everyone!! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>An update
on how we are movin' along.</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Our embassy issued the article 5 letter back on
March 1st. From there, our paperwork went back to the MOJ and then slowly moved
to Court. They told us Thursday ---- We FINALLY have a court date - May 21st.
Our FBI fingerprints/background checks are complete - we still need to update
our medicals with that official letter of health - notarized and apostilled -
then all of these papers will be ready for Bulgaria. Hopefully this will be our
last hoop to jump through before our pick up trip - woohoo!!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We are
excited and I'm disappointed too. I was trying so hard and wanted so much to be
able to travel on our pick up trip in 4 months from our first trip. I thought
everything was moving long pretty fast and we got all of our US approvals in
excellent time - everything just STALLED in Bulgaria. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: small;">Once we are represented in court by our
attorneys - our precious little twins are officially ours. Hopefully we will be
able to travel for our pick up trip by mid or late June - I know it's only 4
weeks from what I hoped!! ! So ready.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-18410658428974254732013-02-23T20:30:00.001-08:002013-02-23T20:30:52.810-08:00Moving Right Along
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Movin’ right along in
search of good times and good news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
are trying to keep this show on track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
January, our I-800s along with supporting documents were sent to the USCIS ----
they never arrived – YIKES……. I must say --- We have the nicest Officer at the
USCIS ever---- she has been great and helped us so much!!! After much frustrations,
I picked myself up to re-gathered everything and resend our documents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On February 14<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, we received news
that our 2 I-800s were Provisionally Approval and our files have been moved to
the National Visa Center for upload into the Dept. of State system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This part was so quick! Thanks Office
Cindy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the NVC is where the
Article 5 letters are issued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the
MOJ receives these letters they will pass everything along and a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">court date</b> will be issued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> We also did fingerprints again for the FBI - sent - hopefully these are our last ones to do. </span></span><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><em>Movin’ right along – they say getting there
is half the fun. Movin’ right along (doog-a-doon doog-a-doon) <o:p></o:p></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We Skyped with the girls
today!! What at wonderful experience – just to see them and hear their little
voices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>“Mama - Daddy”</strong> I do not have the
words to describe how that made us feel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They would even repeat Love You… we can’t wait to bring them home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We are still working on their
room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> My sister will be coming to visit and help put the finishing touches on the girls' room in just a few weeks. We are having a shower for the girls and I'm so excited that all of our friends and family will be together celebrating. I love showing them off. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><strong><em>Movin’ right along<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;">My Loves<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-1376670632710589632013-01-27T08:02:00.001-08:002013-01-27T08:02:33.100-08:00My Wish
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Our first trip, we arrived
in Sofia on Sunday then travel to Novi Pazar on Monday to meet the girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we arrived, we first met with the Social
Service staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were all very nice
and were able to answer all of our questions about the girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were taken to a “play room” - as the staff
opens the door – there were the girls playing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I think my heart stopped – the precious little ones we only saw in a
picture and fell in love were right here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The moments passed slowly as we entered and were introduced to our
girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are beautiful, active with
great personalities – I couldn’t help but stare. We played with them as they
quickly warmed up to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That kiss, that
hug, that touch will forever be imprinted into our memories - what a magical
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, oh oh!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hours passed so quickly and we looked
forward to the next day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Each day brought new
memories and many “first” for our girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We brought play dough and they didn’t even want to touch it – it took
getting use to it and by the end of the day it was a hit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were able to take some walks to the park
where swings and slides were calling our names.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The girls were not sure what to think at first- once they figured out
how much fun it was – I think they had a blast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were so cute and I was amazed that the teeter-totter was a hit
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also brought a picture book for
each of them – pictures of us – of course – and our family plus our dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had so much fun looking at it – momma
and daddy – Pretty Cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">The last day was the
hardest knowing this was it until we return. I don’t think 4-5 months will pass
quickly enough for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were many
kisses and hugs this week as well as laughter and smiles that we will hold in
our memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our week was absolutely
amazing – we had an amazing translator – she was very good to us – loved
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was worried how we would be able
to leave – just walk away from these two precious ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There must have been a plan between our
translator and others to have our exit done without rush and only a tear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We said goodbye and gave our kisses and hugs
– we hope they last until our return – we made our exit before we knew it – then
to the car headed back to Sofia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Once back in Sofia –
Friday – we signed papers and then we had a free day to sightsee in downtown
Sofia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are some amazing buildings
and lots of walking to do which balances the good food we ate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had an early flight on Saturday – long
flights are not my thing – I was miserable sitting in one place for so
long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve made it back for a week– set
our pictures to music and now counting down the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our family and friends are helping us plan
for them and get the house ready as well as lots of celebrations – I think we
are going to stay busy – now and forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are truly blessed with great family and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">My Wish – I hope they know
somebody LOVES them – Yeah, this is our wish!!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-66880304134385390822012-12-29T00:31:00.000-08:002012-12-29T00:31:15.157-08:00Referral – Girls Girls Girls!!!!
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Our time has come – we survived
the great wait !!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have received our
referral!!! The call came in December 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, Kay, our coordinator,
gave us the wonderful news – the only information at first was - we had a
referral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the following weeks,
details of our referral trickled in – TWIN GIRLS!!!!! Once we laid eyes on them
December 14<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, they are
our girls and we are blessed – they are who we prayed for all these years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have our travel dates – can’t wait to meet
them– so excited!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We can’t stop thinkin’ about Girls! Girls!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-657987136643258232012-08-11T22:23:00.000-07:002012-08-11T22:23:08.720-07:00Summertime!<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">We had a wonderful summer
vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our family vacation just gets
better each year!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Beach Club</span></span></div>
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<img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1QpFk85rNSkADVVidrYuE6Qfp77XkHSPzj54tfTc_Gfeed5ecpwCSHtrPUTkdXQ9LM83wF_sKK8NyKkL-YUi33eKLw5foT7FI43fp-8oYIbmBOanKPw1vze6O3uRv6JJBxUHz2UY5lc-l/s320/DSC03094.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">It’s a smile, it’s a kiss
- It’s a sip of wine, It’s summertime -Sweet summertime!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><o:p></o:p></span> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWICRdX_9ldwtPC3jV7SIYjXeANpWic86ayWbyCttjb_QqWVyR2xSyYzDHNijCTMclX3TAblQiZ9RaGvlHfcZXURv6NLJGH3hSogibyRPXEb5xKI453zeWPNQ_fxGZ11uCoa5f161gcP6/s1600/DSC02924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWICRdX_9ldwtPC3jV7SIYjXeANpWic86ayWbyCttjb_QqWVyR2xSyYzDHNijCTMclX3TAblQiZ9RaGvlHfcZXURv6NLJGH3hSogibyRPXEb5xKI453zeWPNQ_fxGZ11uCoa5f161gcP6/s320/DSC02924.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Double Red Flag Cautions
were flying high most of the week!!!</span> </span></span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4KndAKKP3G5MAgfeXEWBXY3PMw5d_OIkZlSPWNUEolT0Gkgpt_8O_TJiErl8amzhVn2tYaHMsJdvIjRMm7VelskzrhGPOCXaHIOe3j1W62whVzJBvIa4NvDsKTGZ1LlwYkn9ske6kyh5/s200/CIMG2632.JPG" width="150" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVn1QEmXUJr6d9I7E7i30YTQRm41010UX_NY4u9i6pTN3lhUgw-y0gvt3tzWt4graG2SprFg6KIRDladPlvRNiQHDGZ24ehHVpExByvOZGRGDkyC5PG9BWXHQLbwACHICWJGAEDOHlVLky/s1600/my+favorite+boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVn1QEmXUJr6d9I7E7i30YTQRm41010UX_NY4u9i6pTN3lhUgw-y0gvt3tzWt4graG2SprFg6KIRDladPlvRNiQHDGZ24ehHVpExByvOZGRGDkyC5PG9BWXHQLbwACHICWJGAEDOHlVLky/s200/my+favorite+boys.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
</blockquote>
</div>
</span><blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJHr9JQABbzAdCg2Ara1tXwoT1_8ticacz9goae6t3aZRkDL_KTPncyVrv1ZyB15uwwRJw34VracXSAXUgHFRM_ea_0-W-I_qyURJBkC805CMzn1VOX-Gwhq6XHKySkA_OtulGbphAu0_/s1600/DSC02956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJHr9JQABbzAdCg2Ara1tXwoT1_8ticacz9goae6t3aZRkDL_KTPncyVrv1ZyB15uwwRJw34VracXSAXUgHFRM_ea_0-W-I_qyURJBkC805CMzn1VOX-Gwhq6XHKySkA_OtulGbphAu0_/s200/DSC02956.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: x-small;">Vince and Zach just hangin’ out</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlHsXON2GllYEn70xcZotiRLxijsvDHBtmOn4IgXxFPQMKYtjivFX35Urm9b1Smc0fj8OvO0spJcEF_B7PTayv08GE1X2JS3KQzW8B4R7sjs879RzxzwgF3_Ol9o0K25RokitfY2EqKM4/s1600/DSC03038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlHsXON2GllYEn70xcZotiRLxijsvDHBtmOn4IgXxFPQMKYtjivFX35Urm9b1Smc0fj8OvO0spJcEF_B7PTayv08GE1X2JS3KQzW8B4R7sjs879RzxzwgF3_Ol9o0K25RokitfY2EqKM4/s200/DSC03038.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Loving their Aunt Pam!!!!! </span></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I’ll work on catching up on
what’s been going on. Hope you enjoy a few pictures. This is a start! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-91973236272550791322012-05-27T22:43:00.001-07:002012-05-29T22:10:41.051-07:00Whole Lotta Celebrating Goin' On<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We have been busy this
month with so many celebrations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vince
celebrated his birthday with a day of relaxation and dinner at Carrabba’s
Italian Grill – Vince ordered spaghetti with Italian sausage and my favorite was
the signature dish of Pasta Weesie.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFm4P-JyvnBiNEJTXju2-aUdDKH71L8HZm2UGbZI_38rWikwuLrM6R3qRv_OfdUythQUZndqfsqaNjKGZw0egn9NFA-_-MwTeJo6a40EE_luymMi8ska0BtFDEExWpUyd87s1774F_M7l/s1600/carrabbas-at-night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFm4P-JyvnBiNEJTXju2-aUdDKH71L8HZm2UGbZI_38rWikwuLrM6R3qRv_OfdUythQUZndqfsqaNjKGZw0egn9NFA-_-MwTeJo6a40EE_luymMi8ska0BtFDEExWpUyd87s1774F_M7l/s200/carrabbas-at-night.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJR8BhyphenhyphenbP4reryhEYvJxw22UpoVp3azRDdTt4143APrndLBVjyZJYDDYXeN_IgtUrl-dR2zcrpzG_YSh0sOujwqmhMDD6-3t4ZlpABOeCdyz_TYH8mVQ9jDv3P8fOXDb6Fsomg4s63Vxj/s1600/Carrabba%2527s2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJR8BhyphenhyphenbP4reryhEYvJxw22UpoVp3azRDdTt4143APrndLBVjyZJYDDYXeN_IgtUrl-dR2zcrpzG_YSh0sOujwqmhMDD6-3t4ZlpABOeCdyz_TYH8mVQ9jDv3P8fOXDb6Fsomg4s63Vxj/s200/Carrabba%2527s2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Nurse’s Week </span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We celebrated all the
magnificent Nurses at Baptist! </span><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We also had lots of fun in
the HotShots Photo Booth!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOoy8FGk81_ZrdVN8SWdw09P-C-Tmpzi2H7qHkTaG81lVfGaA9pI3mPjZq53IH4z-qXO7tjhpN1aH87-nPKW2aT9YJBewHz_Q0MMp5ZKtYJZO9ja7NiMPu-1xxiPt-yjmP9Qap9mYqrIl/s1600/nurses+week.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOoy8FGk81_ZrdVN8SWdw09P-C-Tmpzi2H7qHkTaG81lVfGaA9pI3mPjZq53IH4z-qXO7tjhpN1aH87-nPKW2aT9YJBewHz_Q0MMp5ZKtYJZO9ja7NiMPu-1xxiPt-yjmP9Qap9mYqrIl/s200/nurses+week.JPG" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9sCnRzyLm6Dj8H6IdqT4GzXDtq_-HaZG7dEbj0UJ4JZVeYhSei4WsCJwOWZGKpBYNPv02pttdI2c1z-EVCVksAPs-AyFvYS7ntzz7kBvcGF_60ELUgNcapVqLutBPuh_NBFdMgZQgMOH/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Lauren and Chris Winchell’s
Wedding<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpZS7jokflMI9GEXyj1pRnszWY29uurUJmqgF21ZBqgfxslpGhMhEh45f1rKK85iBskTnEjyKWh6zZAO7LWOoDbR366Q2ZGZywYgGInRXGB8IRUC5J4ONoVuYeJmi6LiyDrJgZwmkc-3g/s1600/Lauren+and+Chris+-+the+first+dance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpZS7jokflMI9GEXyj1pRnszWY29uurUJmqgF21ZBqgfxslpGhMhEh45f1rKK85iBskTnEjyKWh6zZAO7LWOoDbR366Q2ZGZywYgGInRXGB8IRUC5J4ONoVuYeJmi6LiyDrJgZwmkc-3g/s200/Lauren+and+Chris+-+the+first+dance.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHxDl9DLbDpDK_TnxK3wDMGn661ExpSIy7p4P58zIaMMRPay7HzLquxDhNtDhw47kvgD2_yCPL93E8Y4IGI1D2xobeCtUlO6MhcRN3eyNtdFS5gaEu_RbcVx_ZHrvQokSWaVZYbHIXHYw/s1600/Lauren+and+Chris+-+wedding.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHxDl9DLbDpDK_TnxK3wDMGn661ExpSIy7p4P58zIaMMRPay7HzLquxDhNtDhw47kvgD2_yCPL93E8Y4IGI1D2xobeCtUlO6MhcRN3eyNtdFS5gaEu_RbcVx_ZHrvQokSWaVZYbHIXHYw/s200/Lauren+and+Chris+-+wedding.JPG" width="156" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1P3srKrQMCcqF6jKZ8prrPfTmg2z8c_pmFvnrAffbSEC1zU7nGJjB6bygPR3J_HVP6OHVt_BhZn4hyphenhyphenB_6J_RTj_6HigormBWc5_HhRYZIOjXzoIvB15X2_afpEsMHun2crr3D5trjOpbJ/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1P3srKrQMCcqF6jKZ8prrPfTmg2z8c_pmFvnrAffbSEC1zU7nGJjB6bygPR3J_HVP6OHVt_BhZn4hyphenhyphenB_6J_RTj_6HigormBWc5_HhRYZIOjXzoIvB15X2_afpEsMHun2crr3D5trjOpbJ/s200/photo+(1).JPG" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Best Friend Melinda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPsUULY_LpjIwo5Hhvl_NkJV0lg_IqDpVHARH_Oa79Rfl3dR3tfakowLIJEfRqTQm69WMS95w9Gh9IwVk2nyoMWr1g07abbXSxcrkTrqq6SjAa965GDry1xMjeM1QniyjNVjiegowDcOK/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPsUULY_LpjIwo5Hhvl_NkJV0lg_IqDpVHARH_Oa79Rfl3dR3tfakowLIJEfRqTQm69WMS95w9Gh9IwVk2nyoMWr1g07abbXSxcrkTrqq6SjAa965GDry1xMjeM1QniyjNVjiegowDcOK/s200/photo+(2).JPG" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Sweetheart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Hub City Fitness
Quest <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNsjTQzTZG8fT6regNk75cotE7k9O-7NsL4FjcODlw22RiGJHWyYl27ZaGwccCbEyQ40AVtvS-6JN81ytMtJRT_balWY8YvWgEYXwEJZeY3OLr9kixgb2lQ_W4faCSPvdxudTVw2K6VxR/s1600/Dustin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNsjTQzTZG8fT6regNk75cotE7k9O-7NsL4FjcODlw22RiGJHWyYl27ZaGwccCbEyQ40AVtvS-6JN81ytMtJRT_balWY8YvWgEYXwEJZeY3OLr9kixgb2lQ_W4faCSPvdxudTVw2K6VxR/s200/Dustin.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYSHiZZl0lD_xoOH5_7DQQSmJgY88MpXYf8YFbywp9LJFC4RcP0t8JUgy3HfsqJR8i4recFA8mFDPkdHVc4ywSicCSYAgFZEDoEBWUjzw0nMqiuyMjrjhZKiVd_F1HjjIc1I5fDn8yxKc/s1600/Dustin+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYSHiZZl0lD_xoOH5_7DQQSmJgY88MpXYf8YFbywp9LJFC4RcP0t8JUgy3HfsqJR8i4recFA8mFDPkdHVc4ywSicCSYAgFZEDoEBWUjzw0nMqiuyMjrjhZKiVd_F1HjjIc1I5fDn8yxKc/s200/Dustin+3.JPG" width="148" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Dustin took 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>
place in his division as well as Overall Winner for Men’s Physique ! </span><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">We're</span> so proud of him!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">As you can see, we’ve been super busy and
having blast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would like to say
there was lots going on with our adoption but I can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the old adage says: no news is good news –
NOT – hopefully soon!! </span></div>
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<br /></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-54881463076381248182012-04-26T19:40:00.000-07:002012-04-26T19:40:51.161-07:00On a Jet Plane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiDNiETXeTI3eqUyOT-ONCwX9CZkmQcBommK21EG53YMfw7pfJ1kn-hpOq39KpUdsPRGcOf6_k6bWyfkrru87u0piAfvNvAXhn1mr8uimPjJ-EZrE_gDcUp0S9NvNyh8A89Ihl5_ZLebP/s1600/Bulgaria3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="49" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiDNiETXeTI3eqUyOT-ONCwX9CZkmQcBommK21EG53YMfw7pfJ1kn-hpOq39KpUdsPRGcOf6_k6bWyfkrru87u0piAfvNvAXhn1mr8uimPjJ-EZrE_gDcUp0S9NvNyh8A89Ihl5_ZLebP/s320/Bulgaria3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">YEAH!!!! We have received
our USCIS extension last Thursday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
immediately got busy getting our documents notarized, certified and apostilled.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>USCIS was notarized Friday – then all
notaries were certified – off to our capital in Nashville for the official seal
of approval. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tuesday we received all
apostilled documents – Thanks FedEx for a speedy delivery!!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Made my copies of all the documents then – off
they went – back to FedEx – On a Jet Plane – to Bulgaria!!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish I could say we were on that jet plane
---- VESTA should have them in their hands Friday!!! YEAH!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Praying for our
Referrals!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we continue to wait…<o:p></o:p></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-49961433368299660622012-04-26T19:26:00.000-07:002012-04-26T19:26:35.881-07:00Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-59891861256593434702012-04-06T23:06:00.000-07:002012-04-06T23:06:56.087-07:00Putting on a Happy Face<span style="font-family: Papyrus;">This week we received our USCIS letter for our fingerprinting appointments– scheduled for April 24<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> – YIKES!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our USCIS approval will expire April 7<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> – we hoped we could have gotten our extension completed prior to the expiration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our agency continues to tell us our referral in coming soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have also informed us that we can’t receive a referral without a valid USCIS approval!!! OMG!!! No happy faces here!!!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">The only way to help speed this up is for us to get our fingerprints ASAP!!! So, Thursday we went to our immigration office to see if this was possible to actually get our fingerprinting taken early. This seemed like a small endeavor although presenting with many adversities, we had a spring storm producing hail – we still headed out to test our luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We pleaded our case for early fingerprints which they were so nice and accommodating of our request – I quickly completed my fingerprints -then it was Vince’s turn- he started and right in the middle of his fingerprints there was a power outage…….................. Thank goodness for battery backup!!! Even with the power outage we were in and out of there in a flash – needless to say – We’re smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Today we received the dread pink letter from the USCIS requesting additional information as well as clarity of the children we are approved to adopt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I'm h</span>appy that their request seems like it should be handled with a quick amendment to our home study- I’m hoping Carla is available Monday to pull this request together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really want to have it back to the USCIS office no later than Wednesday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All goes well we will have our extension approval in approximately a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finger crossed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Putting on a Happy Face! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Looking forward to our Easter Celebration! <o:p></o:p></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-23960617248536969072012-03-19T22:01:00.000-07:002012-03-19T22:01:32.517-07:00Rockin' to Simulation<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Last week was tough and very busy at the hospital although very exciting to show off all of our work and dedication to patient safety.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Baptist Memphis and Laerdal Medical hosted a Simulation User Network (SUN) conference showcasing how simulation integrates quality, safety, and patient satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We opened the conference with a video that lead into a simulation on the main floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so proud of our team and especially proud of my ER Nurses and the Memphis Fire Department Paramedics as they played key roles in the simulation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><strong>It was perfect!!! </strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1xRxu2fZW2cefBJcI-WA8MNI12ZQ1QkkKVqTL8ayBd3esBOAJkLUngx6QTMTDYdwatwU3lsGkQudXOYkkDiGSdKAtM_M35x8wYdN8JezhvUExngtdLEOx_9RyxnTkSeH2GUw3WGB5kzN/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1xRxu2fZW2cefBJcI-WA8MNI12ZQ1QkkKVqTL8ayBd3esBOAJkLUngx6QTMTDYdwatwU3lsGkQudXOYkkDiGSdKAtM_M35x8wYdN8JezhvUExngtdLEOx_9RyxnTkSeH2GUw3WGB5kzN/s1600/untitled.bmp" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Our boss, Judy, may call us her Rock Stars as she pushes us to be our best however we think she is the BOOM – our Bon Jovi - the best boss ever – as we are ROCKIN the house with outcomes!!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Improving Patient Care</span></b></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72WW0V_tKxuPnJTNXqkI9tuKW6bEIzAsECdjmRoLWFgZYFTweK1hEoDAI0uzd6qe2B181b08HilMhysjJaMOzQ7WVm7dSPDEyQJBcVkDexYbp_VJ6pmw_A2p4qAi35ZJnz6OD8URNSVCH/s1600/422446_395374280472833_100000007928014_1588089_1135954150_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72WW0V_tKxuPnJTNXqkI9tuKW6bEIzAsECdjmRoLWFgZYFTweK1hEoDAI0uzd6qe2B181b08HilMhysjJaMOzQ7WVm7dSPDEyQJBcVkDexYbp_VJ6pmw_A2p4qAi35ZJnz6OD8URNSVCH/s320/422446_395374280472833_100000007928014_1588089_1135954150_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-46259044317347793362012-03-16T20:40:00.000-07:002012-03-16T20:40:55.265-07:00Zoom Zoom Zoom!!<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNiTbUcsYrACkTy5quIaCCHznH1xdDkKp8WmK6qQOii5KdbxxLEPFOMpvGHQF0taHi_lI4W5vEFSiQaJxoyA_s5VLH7HL1PCIMs3ApX96QpF3ZoSbuwmvDcWt60cb5PkdxAjfw5-wtgot/s1600/EX0392_jpg_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNiTbUcsYrACkTy5quIaCCHznH1xdDkKp8WmK6qQOii5KdbxxLEPFOMpvGHQF0taHi_lI4W5vEFSiQaJxoyA_s5VLH7HL1PCIMs3ApX96QpF3ZoSbuwmvDcWt60cb5PkdxAjfw5-wtgot/s320/EX0392_jpg_0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Go FedEx!!!! Our home study is updated, sealed and delivered. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything has sent to the USCIS for another extension of our approval to adopt from Bulgaria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully there will be no request for additional information and we can push forward with dates for fingerprints!!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fingers crossed for a speedy extension.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-34719192592899942842012-02-10T19:09:00.000-08:002012-02-10T19:09:58.008-08:00Whistle While You Work<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We had a good meeting with our new home study worker, Carla.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To complete an updated home study with a new person and company we will be starting from square one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was surprised with lots <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of paperwork to complete – I don’t remember so much to do the first time or were we much more excited since we were just getting started therefore not feeling so daunting. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have our one on one meeting next week – Vince is so not looking forward to this – especially since I tend to be the big talker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will have our 3 meetings down in no time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next week is filled with MD appointments, fingerprinting, criminal record checks and obtaining employment verifications and reference letters as well as physician statements of health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m tired just thinking about it. This too will end – it’s a test of endurance – not for the weak – otherwise we would have just thrown our hands up…..No Way …. We continue to follow that dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still waiting – no news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-77413146130125425782012-02-03T20:41:00.000-08:002012-02-03T20:41:07.450-08:00Home Study Update<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">We have contracted with the Jewish Family Services for our home study update, our first appointment is Monday – so I guess I’ll be getting the house in order this weekend while trying to get through the stack of forms that must be completed also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m excited about meeting our new social worker since she seemed very nice over the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fingers crossed that she will also be prompt, efficient, and timely when constructing our home study.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is truly amazing the time that goes into the home study updates, renewals of USCIS approvals and fingerprints and more fingerprints!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>REALLY!!!! We just keep doing the same things over and over again just waiting on our referrals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The carrot is just dangling there while we are being diligent in our quest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In December our agency said that we should be getting our referrals REAL SOON!!!! What’s soon???? Hopefully next week or even this month would be fabulous!!! </span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-22352317803415913422012-01-27T23:06:00.000-08:002012-01-27T23:06:43.884-08:00Puppet On a String<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">Have you ever felt like a puppet on a string?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are feeling like that as we start to work on our I-800A extension – yes 2<sup>nd</sup> extension!!!! We have to say….where are our children……in the meantime….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More hoops to jump through – fingerprints, medical updates, inspections and paperwork as another call goes out to our Social worker, Ann, to update our home study once again. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boy, did I get a surprise when I called<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-- what do you mean – not doing home studies any more – a heads up would have been nice.! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I contact 2 Social Workers today and hopefully will hear back from them Monday– just wondering if this means that we have to start all over with multiple visits and long conversations about our childhood as well as with many many other things…omg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our home study process has had its ups and downs with many frustration and delays in completing our documents – so this may be a blessing in disguise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m just feeling nervous about embarking on the whole home study process again with a new person. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This update will keep me busy making appointments and gathering documents as we rush to meet our deadline focusing on the end result.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All Smiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-26831928514559136082012-01-20T20:59:00.000-08:002012-01-20T20:59:59.440-08:00IAC Session 204<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">The following referrals were issued in IAC Session 204 which was held on 12/09/11: </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">1) Spanish dossier from February 2009 referred a male child aged 1 year and 5 months</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">2) Italian dossier from February 2009 referred a female child aged 4 years and 10 months</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">3) German dossier from February 2009 referred a female child aged 2 years and 10 months with features in health status and a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">4) French dossier from April 2009 referred sisters aged 4 years and 8 months and 3 years and 1 month</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">5) French dossier from June 2009 referred a male child aged 5 years and 2 months with a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">6) Swedish dossier from August 2009 referred a female child aged 1 year and 8 months with features in health status and a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">7) Canadian dossier from September 2009 referred a female child aged 2 years 11 months with a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">8) German dossier from December 2009 referred a male child aged 2 years with features in health status and a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">9) U.S. dossier from May 2010 referred a brother and sister aged 2 years and 3 years and 4 months with features in health status</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">10) U.S. dossier from October 2010 referred a female child aged 8 years and 4 months</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">11) Italian dossier from April 2011 referred a male child aged 2 years and 8 months with features in health status</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 9pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Papyrus; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;">12) Italian dossier from July 2011 referred a male child aged 7 years and 8 months with features in health status and a family history</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.8pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: 1.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-transform: uppercase;">Posted by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/01893110617976115041" title="author profile"><span style="color: #5588aa; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Viviane </span></a></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-67023620646489999992012-01-15T19:41:00.000-08:002012-01-15T19:50:04.685-08:00Somewhere Out There… wishing on the same bright star<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">As we know, adoption wait times are unpredictable as well as preparatory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time we began our journey, I believe the wait times were estimated to be 12 – 18 months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We applied requesting 2 children (girl and boy) unrelated or sibling group up to the age of 4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>November 2010 we renewed our I-800A and the wait continued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May 26, 2011 (18 months) came and went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard not to feel defeat as well as become restless and weary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kay does a good job lifting spirits and showing me my strength while putting things into perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter where we are in the gamete of emotions - we continue to smile and enjoy life. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Papyrus; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Papyrus; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Papyrus;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We know our children are out there waiting for us, so we continue to pray for them as well as their care givers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would like to think that we are all wishing on that same bright star and we will be together soon to make our dreams come true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2011 is closed out as we have had wonderful holidays with friends and families – some of the best memories yet – we look forward to 2012.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1OKeixWvfwoyiEFT7g68bRhNAI1wrFfIjmQgsiT_U11PkJFyHsy_qYpgsoFordgrVZNxWfoU9IedcYbmiFSY6CZ-tE4HsEOplTNcqfuWsZ8dlY5LMwXyg-oLHuBL3J-FuUpDRYpN7_KO/s1600/photo%255B1%255D+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1OKeixWvfwoyiEFT7g68bRhNAI1wrFfIjmQgsiT_U11PkJFyHsy_qYpgsoFordgrVZNxWfoU9IedcYbmiFSY6CZ-tE4HsEOplTNcqfuWsZ8dlY5LMwXyg-oLHuBL3J-FuUpDRYpN7_KO/s200/photo%255B1%255D+%25283%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6111920523562740689.post-2237393392761355442012-01-14T00:38:00.001-08:002012-01-14T00:38:46.739-08:00Once Upon a Dream<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Papyrus;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our dream of adoption began in 2008, for months we talked about adoption and explored the options of domestic and international ventures. That was the easy decision. We explored agency and agency and country after country laying out the pros and cons of each. Guatemala, Kazakhstan and Bulgaria were the regions that were mulled over. Bulgaria drew us in, hook line and sinker. Once the country was decided on, then the search for an agency- which seemed to come easy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>November 2008 we received our contract information from Tree of Life Adoption Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our dossier process started in full force, January 2009.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We passed the home study process with Catholic Charities of West Tennessee which included conversations, education, inspections, medical clearances as well as background checks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I-800A, finger prints, notaries, certifications, and everything apostilled formulated our dossier sent to Bulgaria.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our dossier was received in Bulgaria in September 2009, translated then registered November 26, 2009 and at that moment the wait began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>Pamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13265572570598743629noreply@blogger.com1