tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24891106051692731472024-03-12T20:39:20.632-07:00livandhopeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-3113329857493842232016-12-14T07:46:00.000-08:002016-12-14T07:46:21.467-08:00It's that time of year again I admit it I love getting Christmas cards. Maybe it's the feeling of getting classic letters in the mail. Updates from friends and family, photos of kids growing up incredibly fast. I have actually been known to keep cards for several years. (gosh I know I have a problem). <br />
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I used to design my own cards and the stress of it all about just sent me into a tailspin during the holidays that I decided to save my sanity and go with <a href="http://prodigitalphotos.com/" target="_blank">Pro Digital Photos</a>. I've actually had them create my cards the past few years and lets just say I'm a happier person during the season. The site is easy to use and the selection you guys in out of this world. Prepare yourself and it's not to late to send me a card! (wink wink)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-59871751730368077472016-12-13T17:44:00.007-08:002016-12-13T17:44:56.501-08:00A bedroom update and easy DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's been a while since I dusted off the old tool belt and got to work. I miss it and I've been wanting to do this project for a while. So while my husband was gone away on business it seemed like the perfect time to make a disaster of our room, and clean it up just in time for him to come home. </div>
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When I told him about what I had in mind for our room makeover I promised him I wouldn't have anything pink in our room. If you've seen our home, I LOVE PINK! Having a house full of girls, we love pink, the man deserved one room without it. </div>
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Our home has an excellent view of the lake and mountains behind our home and I love the early morning daylight we get with our windows. So I wanted to add some elements to the room to emphasize this. Adding some trim around our windows was much easier than I expected it to be. I found several options of ideas on Pinterest and settled on this to match our moldings around our doors. I added a thicker molding at the top to give some height to the room because our ceilings aren't that tall. </div>
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I also decided we need some quick art to go above our bed. This sign cost me $7 and I drew the XOXO with the tip of my paint brush. I was pretty proud of myself because I can't even draw stick figures. I personally love the unique and imperfect lines of this. </div>
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The problem now is getting our girls to think this isn't their room and they they have comfy beds of there own. </div>
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I started with the trim basically heading to my local Home Depot and purchasing the following materials for each window. I would recommend doing more than one window at a time to save some potential cost on materials.</div>
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- 1x2 (measurement for top two pieces) </div>
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- 1x4 (measurement for two side lengths and bottom)</div>
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- 1x6 (measurement for lip of window sill and top trim piece)</div>
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- Brad nails</div>
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- Wood screws </div>
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- Hammer </div>
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I started on the window sill first. You will measure from the inside to inside and then add 5 inches to each side (or more/less if you would like) for the lip on the outer edges. </div>
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ve your first 1x6 piece nailed into your window you will then measure the sides for the 1x4 pieces to go on both sides. Measure from the bottom (which will be were your new wood has been added) to the top of your window. Don't go past the top of the window as your top trim will be added here next. <br />
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Then you will take your small 1x2 piece and measure it the same length as your bottom piece of your window (I added 5 inches on each side) to give the dimension of the large trim at the top. You will make 2 of those cuts, one for bottom and one for top. You will add the last 1x6 piece of wood in between. I had to nail my nails in at an angle to get them to stay for the 1x2 pieces. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-34598912036216402592016-11-15T13:42:00.000-08:002016-11-15T12:54:59.910-08:00Family Date in Salt Lake with Nick Jr. <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I was compensated for attending this event sponsored by Nick Jr. and Mom.me. The thoughts and opinions below are my own. </span></div>
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Spending the day together as a family doesn't happen as often as I would like so when it does we try and make the most of it. The other day we were excited to attend a party hosted by <a href="http://www.nickjr.com/">Nick Jr</a> and <a href="http://mom.me./">Mom.me.</a> Nick Jr. was showcasing two shows, <a href="http://www.nickjr.com/" target="_blank">Blaze and The Monster Machine</a> and <a href="http://www.nickjr.com/" target="_blank">Shimmer and Shine</a>. Our girls obviously were in heaven with all of the toys to play with but also the interactive crafts, princess crowns, coloring and race cars. I asked Olivia what her favorite part of the day was and she said without hesitation "I LOVED making the sand jars and so happy to see the new dolls." We don't have a lot of cars in our toy box but they can't get enough of the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/" target="_blank">race car</a> from Blaze.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Our girls were all about the Shimmer and Shine dolls and still to this day we will find one either in the car, our play room or even in the crib for nap time. And Dad isn't complaining about having some trucks and cars in the house. Maybe one day we will have a little boy to for daddy to play with! (wink wink)</span></div>
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These toys give a great introduction to STEM concepts as they encouraging children to apply critical thinking skills and explore science. As a mom I love having our girls play with interacting toys rather than other options to keep their minds creative and engaging. We are excited to play and explore with these toys for days and weeks to come!!!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-31012711114813963482016-11-06T14:13:00.001-08:002016-11-07T12:44:23.903-08:00Chicken Lime Tacos <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hands down best chicken lime we've ever had!!! We mostly love this recipe because we can use it for a couple different recipes. We have served it over rice but our absolute favorite is tacos!!! Mostly as a busy mom I like simple and yummy dinners that my family thinks I've worked so hard all day over. Tricks on them! So here is what you need: <br />
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5 Chicken breasts (I use frozen chicken)<br />
1/2 bottle of Zesty Lime Dressing<br />
Salsa Verde Green Sauce<br />
1 can of Diced Jalapeños<br />
1 can of Diced Chilis<br />
2 limes<br />
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I add all of these items in the crockpot with the chicken and cook baby cook!!! I cook on low for 6-8 hrs or high for 4 hrs. Then we top with tacos with rice, cilantro, and lime. Honestly I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-87433657104472507552016-09-30T08:13:00.004-07:002016-09-30T08:14:14.551-07:00Outdoor Living with Walker Edison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We knew when we built our home the number one reason we picked this lot was for the view and the backyard! I grew up basically living outside, playing basketball and eating dirt. But really though, my childhood was playing outside until it was dinner time. Things aren't like they used to be (now I sound like my mom) but they aren't. I wish they were but I want to make it as much like my childhood for our girts that I can. <br />
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We worked our tails off this summer, digging trenches, gluing sprinkler pipes and assembling our new patio furniture from <a href="http://www.walkeredison.com/" target="_blank">Walker Edison</a>! It makes all the hard work worth it to sit down and enjoy our evenings here. <br />
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So needless to say we have basically been living outside for the past few months. I can't wait to see all the memories that will be created in this backyard. Be sure to check out Walker Edison for all your indoor and outdoor furniture needs. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-84981774768365990332016-07-12T09:18:00.001-07:002016-07-12T09:18:24.743-07:00Bright Night - Pro Digital Photos <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well we did another Bright Night last month, and we spiced things up and did it in sunny Arizona!! I will have more to share soon but first up we wanted to thank our friends at </span><a href="https://www.prodigitalphotos.com/home" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(145, 178, 63); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #91b23f; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.3s;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pro Digital Photos</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> for helping us set the stage for a beautiful day with their prints.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have learned that it really is about the little details that make a big difference! They helped us put together Name tags for our attendees, schedule, and speaker cards. They have an in house designer that was able to help match our theme perfectly.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-14870711827913420052016-04-24T18:36:00.001-07:002016-04-24T18:36:09.471-07:00It's about the little things. Random Acts of service. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We truly believe that showing your kids by example is so incredibly important. Yes they can learn on their own by making their own decisions but what a difference it can make if you offer suggestions, give hints, etc for things they could do and see how they run with it. </div>
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We were asked to participate in a fun new show called <a href="http://www.randomactstv.com/" target="_blank">RANDOM ACTS</a> on KBYU TV. I am absolutely in love with this concept. I get a kick out of doing random spontaneous things and then you throw service in there and it's a win win for everyone!! Involve your kids and it's like we won the jackpot! Showing Olivia a list of random acts she could choose from and then letting her do it was just as much fun as anything. She choose to deliver flowers to a neighbor. She chose the neighbor, and wrote the note. I tried not to hover as a mom and correct her. I give myself a B+ for effort on that. I prepared the flowers that I actually had just bought from the cheapo section in Walmart. And she ran them up to the door. We talked about it the rest of the evening, wondering how something so simple and small for us, could have made their day!</div>
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You may not be aware of this but kids can become pretty self absorbed, I wonder where they get that from? So to help turn some time and distraction from what she wanted or what she thought she was missing out on, it was the perfect moment for me to bring this opportunity up. It turned her focus from herself to something better and simple yet impactful. I loved watching it. </div>
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To arrange these flowers and spruce them up a bit, I took a Trader Joes sack and cut it up. Folded the corners in a little and wrapped the flowers around it. It looked so fancy I tell you what!! </div>
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So check out Random Acts for a list of idea that they have and how you can do simple and fun things with your kids to make someone else's day, and I'm willing to be yours as well. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-18713896710228724682016-04-23T20:10:00.000-07:002016-04-24T20:10:42.660-07:00Olivia turns 8!<br />
I know it's so cliché to say but I can't believe we have an 8 year old!!!! What in the world? Liv you make me happier everyday with your spunk and sassy comments. I never know what you are going to say or do, a little nervous at times but usually end up laughing with your one liners! <br />
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You were able to celebrate basically for a couple of weeks with your birthday and then your baptism a few weeks later. For your party you wanted to have a pampering party. I tried to convince you that the "Positively Perfect Pink Party" I had for my 9th birthday was a smashing success but you wanted nothing to do with that. Who's party do you think it is? <br />
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You won, and I worked. Not really though this party we threw together with some party hats, fake flowers, and treats from Sweet Tooth Fairy. You and your friends wanted to make head flower crowns so that's what we did! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-26901016401259241172016-04-03T20:38:00.000-07:002016-04-24T20:38:40.415-07:00Temple Sealing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-74275640190288875452016-02-22T12:11:00.002-08:002016-02-22T12:11:14.587-08:00Cleaning Schedule!! Work it. I am far from the cleanest person on the street but I also am that mom that goes bananas when her house isn't put together. You get me right? So I thought I would try this weekly schedule for my chores and hopefully by the end of the week I have earned my allowance. I know I will have to work out the kinks and may have to adjust some things. But for the most part knowing I have it written down and that I will get to it when I can give me some peace of mind. So if you are interested here it is! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16683259667776711024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-75226991272872701362016-01-06T22:43:00.004-08:002016-01-06T22:54:42.389-08:00Raising Strong and Confident Daughters <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Being a mom is hard work. Harder than I ever expected. But like they say, the joy that comes with it can't be compared. It's the most rewarding thing I've ever done and continue to do. I feel like my job as a mom has just begun, which is terrifying in a way! But as a mom I think often of ways I can help teach, guide, and show our girls how amazing, strong and what it truly means to be confident. What a job right? <br />
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We all could contribute different ways, ideas, and experiences we have had to share about raising strong children. And I love that! Because I don't know it all, I don't have all the answers. And that is ok. I want my girls to know that life is about figuring it out as you go sometimes. Things that may come easy for one may be challenging for the other. That they teach me daily how to grow and learn. <br />
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Being strong for me could have a different meaning for you. Just like Olivia will be strong in many ways and so will Millie. And my goal is not only to have them focus on how they are strong, and not to compare, but to also be proud of themselves at the same time cheer others on for their strength. As we all know in life, during difficult times, it's usually those around us who have other areas of strength that lift us up, cheer us on, and have just the perfect thing to say to keep us going. <br />
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We have this discussion a lot in our home. "You can do this". "Believe in yourself" "How do you feel and don't worry about what everyone else thinks". Some times with many tears, as someone has hurt our feelings, said something cruel, made a judgment etc. And it won't be the last. But I KNOW that each time our girls will become a little stronger from the things they experience. Teaching them that to be confident means to hold their heads high, know the power they have as girls, women, and one day as moms. They are daughters of God who loves them more than they can comprehend. I hope they get a glimpse into how much he loves them because I know that feeling and peace will help carry them during times of their life. Our girls I hope know that being confident means to stand up for what's right, look for others who need love/kindness and not be afraid to show it and act on it. Be "the one" who isn't afraid to do what's right. Also I hope they truly know that they can accomplish anything they put theirs hearts into, believe they can, have passion for it, and work for it. <br />
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I loved this message with these women and having the opportunity to share this with them and their daughters. It was such a good reminder of the good examples my daughters can have all around them in others girls and their moms! The women behind <a href="http://www.themumsyblog.com/" target="_blank">Michele - A Mumsy Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.sandyalamode.com/" target="_blank">Sandy - Sandyalamode</a>, and <a href="http://www.ourlifeisbeautiful.com/" target="_blank">Sarah - Our life is beautiful</a> are such great examples of this. It was a pleasure working with them and seeing them in action doing the most important job as being moms. Also I would love for you to take a look at <a href="http://luminosityphotos.com/" target="_blank">Luminosity Photos</a> for these beautiful moments Rachel captured. (heaven knows I only have a few pictures of my girls, wink wink). And these darling dresses all the girls wore from <a href="http://www.humstitchery.com/" target="_blank">Hum Stitchery</a>, and this rug that we all gasped over from <a href="http://www.bluesalvage.com/" target="_blank">Blue Salvage</a>.<br />
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Looking around that room that day, I left feeling so much love and empowerment. Although this job to be a moms is at times challenging, it doesn't mean I can't do it. I have a hard time giving myself compliments but one thing I am proud of and I will always be, is how hard we worked for these girls to come into our family. If I can teach them anything in life is to never give up. And that means being strong and confident when you feel like everything in the world around may be telling you different. Never giving up on what they desire, want, believe, and trust...... and that is to me is what being strong and confident is. <br />
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<strong></strong><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-63397051100824545722015-12-22T08:32:00.002-08:002015-12-22T08:34:00.143-08:00Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0QMKc8GzE1CGTWPDho-0o1WaUO2eYyduIObgLqB6wB1Nsg-JsRK4diFBbKfe4JAwGDCKS3y3o9KqbKPLm9OpB-N1FjvSxBChLtNQcx_I-2Zvww-nof8P7wjXnPjSrKrp0AWlrVoQKaXR/s1600/IMG_1595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0QMKc8GzE1CGTWPDho-0o1WaUO2eYyduIObgLqB6wB1Nsg-JsRK4diFBbKfe4JAwGDCKS3y3o9KqbKPLm9OpB-N1FjvSxBChLtNQcx_I-2Zvww-nof8P7wjXnPjSrKrp0AWlrVoQKaXR/s640/IMG_1595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Sugar Cookies</u></span> </div>
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(recipe from my amazing friend Cathy Clark)</div>
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Mix together until creamy: </div>
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1 cup of butter</div>
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2 cups sugar</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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Add to mixture: </div>
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1 Cup of sour cream</div>
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1 tsp soda</div>
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1 TBSP baker powder</div>
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4 1/2 cups flour </div>
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(add up to that and if needed add a little more until it's not sticky, don't add too much)</div>
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1/2 tsp salt </div>
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Bake at 350 for 9 mins (don't overbake!)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u> FROSTING:</u></span> </div>
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4 ounces of butter (softened)</div>
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4 ounces of cream cheese (softened)</div>
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2 cups of powdered sugar</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-62125462121073106952015-12-10T10:38:00.001-08:002015-12-13T21:40:31.178-08:00It's that time of year.....<br />
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You know you love when you get them in the mail. The hard part is getting the hubby to stand still for family pictures for your Christmas cards, right? It's always the battle of what to wear, where to have them, who to have take them, and oh my gosh I haven't had my hair done in months! The easy part is picking the card. Especially when you go with <a href="http://www.prodigitalphotos.com/home" target="_blank">Pro Digital Photos</a>!! I literally had about 8 windows open with all different card selections to choose from. We love to get our girls involved as well, well Olivia at least. Millie just drools over everything and wants to eat the cards. They look delicious though right? Be sure to check them out!!! </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-71352492429280786342015-11-30T21:09:00.000-08:002015-11-30T22:13:02.038-08:00Adoption Questions and my feelings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a wrap of National Adoption Month and I wanted to answer a lot of the questions that I have received! There really is so much to learn, prepare for, personal thoughts and feelings that go into adoption. And it's not just about those who are looking to adopt there are many things you can learn for family and friends who are looking to adopt or going through infertility. I don't have all the answers, I don't know exactly how to tell you how to feel, and I can't tell you what you should do. But what I do know is that my life is been changed for the better because of these two beautiful daughters of God who've come into our lives through adoption! I never thought that this would be the way my life's path would lead, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I hope someone somewhere will get some peace from my thoughts. These are just some of my thoughts and I plan on sharing more, but please respect my thoughts as well. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>When do You Know the Time is Right? </b></span></span></div>
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I get asked this question all the time, and to be honest it's so very personal to the adoptive couple and I don't know if there is a magic answer. Typically at this point most couples have been through years of fertility treatments, drained bank accounts, and hearts holding on to any glimmer of hope. I believe you have to look at from the perspective of "are you ready to be parents and love a child?" We all know there isn't a handbook that comes with parenting, and the same is true with adoption. Every scenario, every couple, every birth parent has a different story and situation that crosses the path of adoption. You and your partner will know it's the right time when it's right for YOU! Not because you just have to have a baby, or because your sister in law is pregnant and you are not, it will feel right and be right for the two of you! I think ultimately you will know the time is right when your heart tells you yes, even as scary as the unknown is. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>Things to Know Before Starting the Adoption Process and things you may not expect. </b></span></span><br />
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<b>- This is your child! </b>You will love this child more than you ever knew possible. Yes he/she may have come to you through adoption but that doesn't mean this isn't your child. Things happen as they should. And trust me I ALWAYS hated when people would say "it will work out the way it should" or "it will all make sense one day". But I will also be the first person to say, it's absolutely true and I believe it. I always knew it when people would say that, but that doesn't mean I didn't want to hear it. Your child will come, your family will happen. You have to know and believe that. <br />
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<b> - You will deal with a lot of highs and lows on your way to making a dream a reality. </b>You may wait for months or years before being matched with an birth parent or child. You will face intense scrutiny, fill out piles of paperwork, spend thousands of dollars, and feel like your life is being looked over with a red marker. It's a difficult process, and it doesn't end when you bring your child home. But of course it will all be worth it when you have your child. During the process of adoption try and live your life, don't put your life on hold! Enjoy the time with your spouse because you never know when you when there will be 3 of you! </div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><b> - Some people will treat you like you are not a real family.</b></span><span style="color: #222222;"> Some people are just silly! (or insert your own word). People will say things, assume things, that may be hurtful. But don't let that get you down. What matters is how much you love your child and they love you! Look at all the wonderful things around you, people supporting you, people who will love your child, family and friends excited for you to bring a child into your home. What matters is how you feel and what happens within the walls of your home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>- Expect some things to not go as planned. </b>This shouldn't come to a surprise to you at this point, but ...... sometimes in life things don't go as planned! Wait what???? We aren't in control, (as much as we would like to be)? I am not comparing adoption to some of life's obstacles like planning a wedding, building a house, a new job, etc but I kind of am! As you have gone through those times, you have hit road blocks, had unexpected things come up, and even been upset with how things may have turned out. But you got through it right? Adoption is the same way, you may get a heartbreaking phone call, but that doesn't mean that the "best phone call" won't happen. You may be angry that you can't carry your own child, but that doesn't mean that one day you won't be sitting in your nursery at 2am feeding your baby one day. We are strong people to go through this, but that doesn't mean we can't be weak at times. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>Ways To Help Others in Their Adoption Journey </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As family and friends learn that couples are looking to adopt many haven't ever experienced it before. They may have known someone, but it may not have been someone so close to them. There are many ways you can help adoptive families during this time, but wanting to help, looking for help, and learning how to help is step #1. So congrats on being awesome because you are here looking for ways to help them!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>- Be supportive Emotionally, Physically, and Spiritually</b>. So many ways to help and you know your friends and family better than anyone. But with that being said, the adoptive families are going into this blindly as well. Even if adoptive families have previously adopted, every situation is different. So they are scared as well. The best thing you can do is just be there for them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Emotionally - it's ok to not have all the right things to say, just be there for them. Sometimes just listening and REALLY listening is all they need. Knowing they have a support team is what can get them through it all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Physically - sometimes its just dropping something by to let them know you're thinking of them. It can be helping them get ready for their home study by dropping off dinner so they can have time to clean the house. We all know what it's like to just know that someone is THERE! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spiritually - PRAY for them. Literally get on your knees and pray for them. Sometimes spiritual strength for couples is low at certain points of the adoption process, because they may be mad, or frustrated. So pray for them that they will feel peace, and that they will and can have the strength to go through this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>- Learn to the proper terms and things NOT to say! </b>Couples looking to adopt already are aware that their children will know come to them a different path than they planned. So let's just be frank here.....they are aware that this child's baby picture isn't going to be a spitting image of their baby picture. And trust me, coming to terms with that is a hurdle in and of itself. But I will be honest I don't look at my children and think "Gosh they look NOTHING like me". I don't. I look at them as my children, shocking right? But the things people say sometimes make that awkward, inappropriate, etc. Here are a couple things NEVER TO SAY to adoptive couples. And trust me I've had every single one of these things said to me, and more more more! DISCLAIMER: my responses are being sarcastic in what I would say or want to say......sometimes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - <strong>"Aren't you glad you didn't have to give birth to your child?"</strong> I actually have no words for this response. If I did say what I wanted, I would have to probably talk to my bishop about the language I would use. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - <strong>"Is that "your" child?"</strong> Nope, I don't know who's kid this is. I just grabbed the first grocery cart I saw and she was in it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - "<strong>Where is he/she from?"</strong> Let me see, do we need to sit down and have "the talk". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - "<strong>That's so sweet, we've always thought it would be fun to adopt."</strong> You are right, adopting is the new trend these days right? It will be so fun to tell my child that we thought it would be "fun" to adopt her when she's older. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - <strong>"He/She's so lucky."</strong> Like she won a prize, or like I was saving her from something. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ok, some of my answers may seem a little harsh and really I am being completely sarcastic because who would REALLY say those responses, oh wait people REALLY ask these questions. I KNOW people are asking the majority of the time with good intent and curiosity. But this video says it perfectly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><a href="https://vimeo.com/92651492" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">If you wouldn't say it...</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><b>Terms to Avoid Preferred Terms </b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Real Parents Birth Parents, birth mom, birthdate </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Give up Place for adoption </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Keep the child Choose to parent </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mixed Biracial </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Adopted Child Child </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- <span style="color: #222222;"><b>Most people, when they inquire about your children, really do have good intentions.</b></span><span style="color: #222222;"> Some are just curious. Some are considering adoption. Some have already adopted. Some are soon to be grandparents through adoption. Many times they are innocently curious children. Be kind. Give them the benefit of the doubt when they are asking questions — until they have proven that their intentions are not good. But parents please teach your kids about adoption! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>Top 4 Things to Know After You Have Adopted</b></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>- You are just like every other parent!</b></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> You are trying to figure it all out just like every other parent. There will be emotional hurdles yes you will need to prepare yourself for. Questions your child will ask. Things other children will say that are hurtful to your child. But you've got this!! You're their mom and dad. You love them, you research, you work through it together just like every other parent has to. But the good will outweigh the bad! You will laugh, and cry, and laugh again with your kids. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>- It may take time to feel connected and bonded.</b> I know GASP right! This is something I wasn't prepared for when we adopted our first child. It wasn't talked about, clearly it was something we wondering about prior to but you never know. It is very sensitive and their isn't a magic answer to this. In adoption there are all different time frames that happen. Our first daughter we had 24 HOURS to prepare before we met her. With our second daughter we had a few weeks before she was born. But it isn't like we have the privilege to feel that connection during pregnancy. Don't feel guilty if you don't have that strong connection at first. It will take time, bonding takes time. With that being said, don't underestimate those special moments you will have with your child. If you look at them as your child and nothing else your love will be endless and they will know that as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>- People will approach you and feel inclined to ask you questions</b>. This is a beautiful thing, and like I mentioned before most people have wonderful intentions and mean no harm. It's unfamiliar territory to some people and they just don't know what to say. But with that being said, you have every right as a parent of your child to hand it how you would like and don't feel guilty for not telling a stranger your adoption story. Not everyone needs to know all the details. I get asked all the time different questions, and sometimes it depends on the mood I'm in honestly and I sometimes will base my answer off how I feel the sincerity of someone asking. People feel inclined to ask questions about adoptive children that they would probably never ask to someone who had given birth to their child. Give them the benefit of the doubt and take this opportunity to show them the how beautiful adoption is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- <b>ENJOY IT! </b> You've waiting for this day for years! Don't feel guilty if someone wants to bring you a meal, even though you aren't in complete physical pain from giving birth. You are a parent and deserve to be treated like everyone else. You've been through emotional, physical, and spiritual pain as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>How Do You Know if Adoption is Right for You? </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think you will know that adoption is right for you when you can ask yourself some very difficult questions and feel a sense of peace and be comfortable with them. It doesn't mean it's going to be easy or that you have to know exactly how to feel all the time. You are allowed to have good days and some bad. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some things to consider before adopting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - My partner and I are on the same page about this? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - How do you feel when you meet adoptive families and children? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - How comfortable do you feel raising a child who may not look like you, be of a different race, etc? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You may be unsure about questions you have to ask yourself and that's ok. Most times in life you won't know exactly how you're going to react to a situation until it's right in front of you. But you need to be somewhat comfortable with some issues that come along with adoption. You are strong enough to do this! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There were many times before we adopted Olivia that my husband was ready to move forward and I was not, and then there were times when it was the opposite. Like most issues YOU HAVE TO TALK about it. Listen to one another. It's ok to not feel completely the same way about it or agree on everything. But you have to talk about it. Ready books, talk to other couples who are looking to adopt or who have. It's normal to not know exactly how you are going to feel about certain things that you haven't even considered before or weren't expecting. And don't feel guilty for feeling a certain way about things. What is right for your family may not be for another family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><b>How to Keep Hope During the Adoption Process </b></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't give up! You have to have just that "hope"! The definition of hope is: a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen! Sometimes that's all you have to rely on, and some days you may doubt but don't give up. Write down your thoughts during this time, surround yourself with your support system and meet others who have adopted or looking to adopt. They will understand exactly how you are feeling. Remember that good things take time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">- The Birthparents. Please please please respect where they are coming from. It's hard to know exactly what they are going through, just like it is hard for others to know exactly what you are going through. You want others to respect, be considerate, support you. So do the same for the birthparents. Pray for them, think of them, tell your children about them. There is nothing you can do or say that will show them how much you love them and appreciate them other than by your words and actions towards them and about them to your children. I think about our birthmothers daily, am I perfect example of writing them or showing them how much we love them. But one thing is for sure, our daughters know how much they love them. </span><br />
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- You Can Do This. It's a long scary unknown road but you can do this. On those days you are sad and angry, be sad and angry. On those days you feel grateful, write it down. Because on those hard days you may need reminders. Your children will know one day how much you prayed for them, cried for them, begged for them. Try and enjoy it as well. It's not all bad and horrible. There are so many special moments we had during our adoption process that I will never forget. Our marriage was strengthened because of those moments, my testimony was uplifted, and I knew those are those moments that we as adoptive families get to have! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-79791077957673928392015-11-08T22:32:00.003-08:002015-11-10T06:48:23.591-08:00Our Finalization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently put the question out there on what people wanted to know about adoption, questions that they had, how I felt about certain things. And with this month being National Adoption Month I am going to begin to share some of our experiences, feelings, etc. Some very easy to discuss and others I have laid up at night wondering how do I answer this. So bare with me as we experience this together. I truly believe that we need each other, not only for support but for validation in what we may be feeling. I don't know everything. I am not an attorney. I am not an agency worker. I am a mom who loves her family. A woman who prayed for years for her family to grow. I am a women who faced infertility and still does. I am a women who has at times felt inadequate for being a woman if I can't get pregnant. I am a woman who's marriage struggled during the difficult times of facing this trial. But I am a woman like you who didn't and won't give up. I know this is something worth fighting for, something worth drained bank accounts and sleepless nights. I am just like you, wanting answers to a broken heart. But knowing that I had hope and still have hope that what we believe in and want more than anything would happen. As I go through this month, it won't all be serious, trust me. If you know me personally you know I am really the farthest thing from being serious all the time. You have to allow yourself to laugh in moments, if not you will go bananas. I mean really, you can't cry all the time. I've tried it and it doesn't work. I hope you are reading this, it may be for you and your family, or for a friend and you don't know what to say, or a sister that you can't relate to because you get pregnant if you look at your husband. (See...we have to laugh). I hope in some small way we can learn about adoption together, talk about infertility, and laugh and most likely cry. </div>
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So to get things started I wanted to answer a question I received "Why are we just now finalizing your adoption even though Millie is 6 months old". </div>
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This was such a great day to start off our amazing jam packed weekend. In most adoptions (depending on agency, state, etc) you have to wait for a certain time period in order for the adoption to be "finalized". Finalization is the legal process which transfers custody of the child from the adoption agency, county, or state to the adoptive parents. In our case our agency had legal custody of Millie during the first 6 months. It will happen in a court hearing, an attorney represents the family. In our case our Brother in Law represented us, which was fun to have family involved, he has 3 adopted children of his own. So it's a neat experience to share together. The attorney presents the case to the judge, which yes feels like you are in trial and very intimidating. I kept telling myself this is a good thing, you have nothing to be afraid of. Olivia said afterwards "Mom that was scary". We joked that we hope that is the only time we have to see her in court. I say it's intimidating because our attorney represents us, presents our case to the judge, and a social worker from the agency is there on the stand to answer questions. Basically this is the moment when the adoptee (child) becomes the permanent, legally adopted child of the adoptive parents. Yay! This process cannot occur until the adoptive parents have had the child in their home for the time determined by state statute, in most cases and both of our adoptions that time was 6 months. </div>
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The finalization hearing, was held in the judge's chambers, usually it's fairly quick and to the point. . The judge reviewed our home study, ask questions to each of us, and generally wants to make sure that the child is being placed in a safe, loving home. Our Judge was so incredibly kind. He says that he tries to save adoptions for Friday afternoons so that he can end the week on a good note, seeing as he has handle difficult court cases throughout the week. He insisted on a group picture and to have our girls put on his robe/court dress and hold his gavel. This may have been the cutest thing. Millie wasn't quiet sure about it all. We are so thankful for amazing family who is supportive and loving. Who has accepted Millie from birth and see her as nothing but our child. I know that may not be the case with some and we will talk about that as well this month. I hope this helped some who may be heading to court, or always wondered what is was like. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-38792498412887182702015-11-08T21:16:00.001-08:002015-11-09T20:34:12.881-08:00Our October in a Nutshell <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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October.... it's going to be a hard one to beat. November you've got your work cut out for you. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tPaIM7P98y6RM4BKyXNkGtmg4h8VzxiZRaUN04BN03owcDTiy0Q3Tz_Eh15fC_jj2UWhN015su3wWWnaC9dGuY1MkdS1xU_R5bvGuLuSOkF6hZMt7_xEJtJruJC2gx2m7TjSZ0mv1nDu/s1600/IMG_6121+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tPaIM7P98y6RM4BKyXNkGtmg4h8VzxiZRaUN04BN03owcDTiy0Q3Tz_Eh15fC_jj2UWhN015su3wWWnaC9dGuY1MkdS1xU_R5bvGuLuSOkF6hZMt7_xEJtJruJC2gx2m7TjSZ0mv1nDu/s640/IMG_6121+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Between our Adoption Finalization, Temple Sealing, Millie's Baby Blessing, pumpkin patches, and our favorite holiday we are on cloud 9 and REALLY tired. <br />
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One of my favorite moments of the month was when Olivia and I went to try and find the perfect dress for her to wear to the temple. It wasn't an easy task I will tell you that. Besides not wanting to spend a months salary on a dress and finding one that was the perfect fit, we looked and looked! <br />
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Then we found "it" and she twirled and twirled in the dressing room like she was getting married to her 1st Grade Crush. I barely could bribe her enough to take it off to go home. We must have had the discussion 12 times about having to keep the dress in the clear plastic cover and we could only try the dress on to show dad and Nana. I think she wanted to wear it for school lunch and to go to the post office. I could have gotten her to do basically anything if she could wear the dress while doing so. I told her she looked beautiful and she looked at me at said "really?". My heart sunk as I thought I clearly must not tell her how stunning she is on the outside and inside enough. It was like she didn't believe me. It was a moment of clarity and commitment that I need to emphasize the beauty in her. I see it everyday, I just need to tell HER! I love these little moments with she and I and it makes me realize how I took them for granted all those years! A child grasps onto every word we say, especially when it has to do with their character. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-3504779183966940782014-12-19T09:39:00.000-08:002015-11-09T20:33:43.218-08:00Working towards our goal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/LivandHope03.jpg?v=1417049500" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/LivandHope03.jpg?v=1417049500" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">First of all we want to thank all of the amazing family, lifelong friends, & new friends who are supporting us on our goal. We are excited to announce a new WOMEN'S & CHILDREN'S T-SHIRT LINE!!! www.livandhope.com This t-shirt line was designed to show our meaning & purpose for what we desire. Olivia & I designed the shirts & she picked out her favorites. LIVE WITH LOVE & LIVE WITH HOPE. </span><br />
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"></span><a name='more'></a><span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><br />
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">We want nothing more than to add a family member into our home. So we began working hard with children’s tents & it was & is a success. However, we thought we needed to do something that shared our story, the meaning behind it all. You see our daughter has a nickname of "Liv". We named her with the intent of teaching her as parents, to live her life day by day, & make the best of each day. </span><br />
<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text2:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text2:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Our faith in the <a href="http://www.lds.org/" target="_blank">gospel </a>has helped us along the way & we know that our children will be placed into our home & family at the right time & at the right moment. We know it, we feel it, and we believe it. And that's all a part of adoption. We do all we can, prepare ourselves, and then we have faith and patience that it will work out even if it means it will take 6 months or 6 years. We want to give our daughter the one thing she begs us for and that's to be a big sister & that’s is why we are doing all we can for her. She deserves this. </span><br />
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text4:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">With every shirt purchase 100% of the proceeds go towards our adoption fund. We are getting close to our goal but many may not know that adoption costs typically range from $30-50K. </span><br />
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text6:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">It's vulnerable & scary to put ourselves out here like this but we know we aren't alone. We are sensitive to the fact that we know there are many wonderful families out there who have the same desire we do, our goal is to help other families as well. </span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".a.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0.0.1.2:1.$text8:0:$end:0" style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; font-family: , "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">We literally can't thank you enough for the love and support we feel. Trust us when we say, those moments and words matter to us, & keep us motivated. So thank you from our family to yours. So go to our shop in profile at www.livandhope.com</span></div>
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<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/Live_and_Hope31web_grande.jpg?v=1413866022" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/Live_and_Hope31web_grande.jpg?v=1413866022" width="213" /></a><a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/Live_and_Hope56web.jpg?v=1414128883" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0665/7745/products/Live_and_Hope56web.jpg?v=1414128883" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-39358474489147011322014-03-24T21:24:00.000-07:002015-11-09T20:32:40.446-08:00Hope for Adoption <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/YbGlp6OCjCs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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It's hard to share with others and those that don't know you exactly how you feel about adoption. It's also difficult to show who you are in words. That's why we thought it would be fun to make a little video to hopefully show a little bit about us. <br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
We named this blog LIV and HOPE because first we named our daughter Olivia in hopes that she learns to "Liv her Life" to the fullest each day and "Hope" because adoption is a journey in which you hope and pray that your child with be found through the process of adoption. We truly live our lives in hopes of making it a great day, learning something new about yourself, others, or life surrounding you. We wish to raise our children to have fun each day, even the worst tasks can be a little fun if you make it. (Ok there are a few tasks that still aren't fun regardless) <br />
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We hope you enjoy our little movie (as cheesy as it may be) but we love our little family and would love to see it grow! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-16121858296956616382014-03-24T20:20:00.000-07:002015-11-09T20:33:07.569-08:00Well hello! <div style="text-align: left;">
We want to thank you for taking the time to get to know a little about us during</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
this time. Our family wouldn’t be complete without the blessing of adoption and the joys </div>
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it has brought to our little family. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXSUJ6Kfd_3VO2BOrtyJMTq5eYa-KHCCg9cl8vGAkamUGF-OFvbcXbu1aPZgnt5HzmO4TFkDwV9yiGX5hyNvq_PHefLJR23vPhSiydRoBqjoCjP03tB2uvNzn93tkzPyNDCU_FRZerx0y/s1600/2012-09-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXSUJ6Kfd_3VO2BOrtyJMTq5eYa-KHCCg9cl8vGAkamUGF-OFvbcXbu1aPZgnt5HzmO4TFkDwV9yiGX5hyNvq_PHefLJR23vPhSiydRoBqjoCjP03tB2uvNzn93tkzPyNDCU_FRZerx0y/s1600/2012-09-03.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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I’m sure you’d like to know a little about us to begin with. First we have been </div>
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married 14 years and have been best friends from our first date. We met while </div>
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attending college at Utah Valley University in a student government class. We dated </div>
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for several months prior to Casey asking the big question! We were sealed in the Salt </div>
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Lake Temple 4 months later. After graduating college we wanted to start our family not </div>
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realizing that we would be faced with the challenge of infertility. After years of trying we </div>
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knew that adoption was our blessing of becoming a family. Our papers were filed with </div>
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LDS Social services and we began praying for birthparents. Then one day our world </div>
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changed as we received a phone call from a family friend who said that there was a 6 </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
month old baby girl who needing a home. Little did we know, that home was ours! <br />
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We met this sweet baby and we fell in love instantly. Our hearts were bursting </div>
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with love and emotions as we knew we had just fallen in love with our baby girl. It's </div>
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been 5 1/2 years since that day and still our hearts melt when we think back to that day </div>
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and those moments. Was it all worth it? Absolutely! Was it crazy? Completely. Were </div>
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we happy? The happiest! Teaching us the importance of family and the covenants we </div>
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made. Daily she reminds us how to be better, the responsibility we have to raise her </div>
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to her fullest potential. She is one amazing little girl and can’t wait to be a big sister! </div>
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She is the neighborhood babysitter (as a 5 year old helper) she loves babies and drops </div>
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whatever she is doing to snuggle up next to the baby to make them laugh. </div>
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<br />
As a family our goal is to spend as much time together that we can doing the </div>
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things we love. Summertime is our favorite as we spend the majority of our days outside </div>
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playing sports or going to parks for hours. We love the beach and went to California </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
this summer where we couldn’t get enough of the beach. Casey loves to play golf and </div>
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is a baseball fanatic. One day we would love to go to New York to see a game. He is </div>
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passionate about his work and loves helping people every chance he can. Working hard </div>
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and teaching our kids good work ethic is important but family is the most important to </div>
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Casey. He loves going on “Daddy Daughter” dates whenever he can, and they have </div>
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a bond that is truly amazing. <br />
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Amy has too many interests to name but mostly crafting and interior design are her passions. She owns her own small business that actually started as a hobby and turned into a great way to help save for our adoption. Amy loves making new friends and making people feel loved and important. She loves serving others and showing Olivia that when you serve others you can have a great time. Her </div>
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and Olivia have dance parties almost daily and love hosting neighborhood parities with </div>
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all the kids. <br />
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Olivia loves to dance; we find her in her room dancing daily. She has some </div>
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pretty good moves. She is in Kindergarten and loves school, even the homework. She </div>
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is one spunky kid that never skips a beat, she is dancing one minute and wrestling with </div>
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her cousins the next. She has a contagious laugh and curls that every girl loves! We are </div>
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excited to see our family grow and love welcome a new baby into our home. As parents </div>
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our goal is to show our children that life is fun, it’s meant to be enjoyed. We make an </div>
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effort to have fun daily even with small things as family walks or relaxing at home. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We come from a family with six adopted grandchildren, all different situations </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
and circumstances but all loved from the moment we met. Olivia loves asking about </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
adoption and we love sharing what we know about her birthparents. She will always </div>
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know how much they loved her and cared for her that they wanted nothing but the best </div>
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for her and for all our children. </div>
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</div>
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We understand that life hands us choices you never thought you’d have to make. </div>
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We understand, life has an interesting way of giving us challenges but looking back </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
on our marriage there has always been a reason to why and how trials and challenges </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
then turned to blessings and lessons. Our life hasn’t been perfect but we wouldn’t </div>
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have it any other way. We have grown as a couple, we have grown as parents, and </div>
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we have grown as a family. We know it’s hard to get to know us through a letter but we </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
want you to feel comfortable and at peace with your decision. We know that adoption </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
is a blessing and that this baby will be loved. We thank you for your time and will be </div>
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praying for you. </div>
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<br />
Best wishes, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Casey, Amy, and Olivia</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2489110605169273147.post-81962325971673730622014-03-24T19:10:00.002-07:002015-11-09T20:33:28.092-08:00About us <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Olivia, <br />
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When you were born, Daddy and I weren't there with you. When you were born, Daddy and I didn't even know you were here on earth. When you were learning to sleep through the night, we were peacefully sleeping in our own beds getting a good solid uninterrupted 8 hours in. When you were learning to laugh we didn't hear it for the first time. When you turned 6 months both our worlds changed. Overnight.<br />
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You see you got to spend the first 6 months of your life with your birth mom. She got to experience all those sweet moments (minus the not sleeping part) with you. We are so happy that she got to have that time with you. Understandably many adoptions happen right after birth but for reasons bigger than us, both your birth mom and us needed that time to prepare for you. We have told you how many prayers were held on your behalf, we have shared the sweet stories of how your cousin at the age of 4 expressed without fear and with his little faith that he knew you were here and wondered where you were? Little did we know that you were having your time with your birth mommy.<br />
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You see mom and dad's heart's were very sensitive at this point. We unfortunately had a few adoptions fall through last minute. Our hearts were broken. And sadly it started to shake mommy and daddy's relationship. We knew we had to turn our hearts to Heavenly Father and if he wanted us to be a family, it was going to be his will and his timing. Looking back we now know why. Those precious babies weren't meant for our family. You were! So when a family friend told us that there was a beautiful 6 month old baby girl who needed a family, our hearts skipped a beat. We both still remember seeing the picture of you coming across on our phone and in that moment life paused. Without saying a word to each other we knew our life had just changed forever. <br />
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The next 24 hours waiting to meet you were the longest of my life. Driving to meet you felt like we were driving for days. When we met you the family you were staying with was beyond sweet and comforting. They suggested we take you for a drive and have some alone time with you. We ended up at a park, typical for Dad and I. We love going to the park almost daily during the summer. You were a little shy at first, which you still are today around strangers, and soon you were laughing and giggling rolling all around on this perfect summer night. You had our hearts. Your big brown eyes were looking through mine, and it was like you were saying "Mommy and Daddy you found me!" We were a family. We have since gone back to this park, usually on your "Gotcha Day" to spend time together as a family and share that special day to make it a great memory.<br />
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Driving home you cried and mommy tried comforting as mommy's do. I had no idea what I was doing but I tried. Finally you fell asleep. Calling family members saying there was a new addition to the family, calling friends to say that their prayers were appreciated over the past 7 years and had finally been answered, and calling bosses saying I wouldn't be to work in the morning or ever because I was now a mommy. Those were the happiest phone calls we will ever make. <br />
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The next few days and into weeks you had visitors daily coming to meet you. And as always the first thing they always said was "Oh she is even prettier in person." People were shocked when we had seen them 2 days before with no baby and then seeing us cart you around in a car seat was a shock to them. Oh and we called you "Babes" for the first three days. We couldn't find the perfect name for you that fit. We had a list of our favorites before but none of them fit you our your personality. When we wrote Olivia on our list that was it! You were an Olivia.<br />
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It's been 4 1/2 years since that day and still my heart begins to melt when I think back to that day and those moments. Was it all worth it? Absolutely! Was it crazy? You know it. Where Mom and Dad happy? The happiest! You came into our lives at the right moment and the right time. You are our daughter. Teaching us the importance of family and the the covenants we made. Daily you remind us how to be better, the responsibility we have to raise you to your fullest potential. You are one amazing little girl. A tough cookie and a tender heart. Girl emotions off the wall, contagious laughter, and curls that every girl is envious of. We love you sweetheart more and more with each new day. You are anxiously awaiting the arrival of another sibling. Trust us when we say Mom and Dad are as well. That's why we pray for our baby daily and sometimes you like to give use a heart attack and say that you're going to have a baby brother and a sister.<br />
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Adoption is a leap of faith. Adoption is a spiritual experience that is hard to explain to anyone who hasn't gone through it. There are so many unknowns. Will this child love us? Will this baby hold my heart as if I were to carry it myself? Will this precious child question why they were placed for adoption? And the truth is, a lot of these questions we are figuring out as we go along.....I think they call that parenthood! One thing is for sure that when we first met you, we felt complete peace as chaotic and surreal as it was we knew everything was going to work out. We of course don't go a day without thinking about your birth mom and the sacrifice and gift she gave us on her behalf. We don't know much about your birth father but we think about his as well. We talk about her all the time and how amazing she is. We want you to know how loved you are Olivia that she thought of you before she thought of herself. You will grow up knowing how special she is and how much she loves you. She is an angel in our home. <br />
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Our Heavenly Father knew that our hearts couldn't handle a drawn out process at that point. I vividly remember pleading with him that I wanted to be a mommy more than anything in this world. And why wasn't something so good happening? Why couldn't I carry a child, what I was meant to do here on earth? Where Daddy and I not good enough? Daddy was so sad to see mommy's heartbroken. Daddy's heart was lost, he longed to be a father. I remember bawling on the side of the road while out for a walk, telling Heavenly Father that I don't know how long I could carry on with this trial. Thankful we have siblings who have adopted as well, that they could relate with our pain. Knowing now how things worked out, it taught us a lot about patience. It taught us to never judge others and their situations. We were unfortunately judged several times both before our adoption and afterwards. It is still to to this day a good reminder that many are dealing with the pain of not being able to carry their own children. Even though we have adopted and have a child we still are sensitive to those who pray for a child. I never want to forget the lessons we have learned. And the truth is I still don't know why I am not able to carry a child, why us. I often cry and long for that experience. We want more children and are starting the adoption process again. We are thankful everyday for the gift we received and can't imagine our lives without you! We love you Olivia. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08123991991691826093noreply@blogger.com0