Attitude of Gratitude

Our sermon last Sunday was about having an attitude of gratitude...I posted a week or so ago about my grateful heart and as I sort through dossier documents this morning I realize I left off something. I am sooooo thankful to have completed our dossier...SO! THANKFUL! And I am very thankful for a very special lady who let me borrow her dossier for reference, Mrs. Kim Rop! So now I am paper pregnant and can't wait for a little face to take the place of this ultrasound!!

Every post could be titled WAITING

Seriously, I feel like we are always waiting! You certainly learn patience during the adoption process. Waiting was easier before, but now that we are waiting on seeing Baby Girl's face IT SO SO MUCH HARDER! But I hear that once we see her face and are forced to wait once again before we can travel to get her will be agonizing. So, just a little update to say that we are still waiting!! I called CCAI Waiting Child Dept. yesterday to see what the timeline looked like for us. I was told probably around 6 more months before a referral. I honestly don't think it will be that long, but better to think longer than to be disappointed month after month. We have almost waiting one month since our LID (10/31/12). So 5 more to go??? Maybe we won't have her by the end of the year?? ALL in God's hands...His perfect timing!

In the meantime, we will continue to learn everything we can about China and attachment. And I will continue to stalk my DTC Fall 2012 fb group to hear all the updates and know one day WE will be the ones with updates!!!

The New "Normal"

This month has been INSANE...I haven't really had to much time to think which has been good since I am anticipating seeing Baby Girl's face. We started the month with my dad's election-he won...WAHOO!! Then, a week and a half ago Nick's dad died unexpectedly...I won't really say much about that here, but it has been tough...for a lot of reasons. In the midst of all that, I had to fly out to my Speech-Language Pathology National Convention in Atlanta, GA. I got back only last night. Our to do lists are over flowing and in my normal type A fashion I want it all done yesterday! So, I have spent much of November not at home and I am ready to get back to "normal." Although, I wonder if there will ever be "normal" again? Waiting for your child's file was never part of our "normal" and then waiting for all the back and forth from China was never part of our "normal." Buying gifts for officials on Black Friday has never been part of my "normal" list. Well,  I guess what we have always thought of as "normal" is no longer, but I am ready to have time to just daydream again about Baby Girl...her eyes, her lips, her smile, her room, meeting her..."normal" plus Baby Girl is better than the old normal for sure.

A Grateful Heart

Over the last 9 days I have been reflecting on what I am thankful for. Of course, I am extremely thankful to be a child of the King, for my family both immediate and extended, for my boys (God's greatest gift),  etc. etc. etc. But this year, my thankful list looks different than any other year and pertains mostly to adoption...it is for these things I am thankful...

1. Watching Oprah special on One-Child Policy in 1995.
2. Meeting Kerri Fowler Black, one of my best friends, who was adopted from Seoul, Korea in 1996.
3. Choosing to SEE by Mary Beth Chapman
4. CCAI
5. The Juliano's-first for David's initial meeting with Nick and then the friendship that formed after.
6. Family and friends who have loved and encouraged us (and not judged).
7. For a God who burdened my heart for the orphans of this world.
8. For a husband who had the courage to walk in faith and trusted God with me in this crazy journey
9. Eric Ludy-Depraved Indifference  (YouTube)
10. For my parents who understand!
11. For The Fosters, Altmans, Suttons, and Bertholics who have all be resources to us.
12. For the great blog writers who speak about adoption far better than I ever could (No Greater Joy Mom, Ashley Ann Photography)
13. For my faithful friends who have read the blogs with me just to know what we are feeling.
14. For my children who are learning more than I could ever say on this journey.
15. For those who have attended our fundraisers.
16. For those who have given.
17. For our references.
18. For God's provision in supplying all we need.
19. For Celeste Carr and her matching fund.
20. For China
21. For those who share a burden for orphans.
22. For Kat LaMons our social worker
23. For a job (and business partner) that will allow me to travel to China and love my little girl until she is firmly attached.
24. Parent training which we are required to take
25. For patience while we WAIT
26. For the Houston Courier
27. For a blog to express my thoughts and document this journey (thanks MM)
28. For all the pretty girlie clothes and shoes that have been given to us.
29. For the orphanage workers who are caring for our daughter.
30. That this time next year my biggest thanks will be that our sweet girl is celebrating the holidays with us.

If Not Us, Then Who?

I have said in several posts that I asked God to break my heart for what breaks His...He answered! If I could have written the perfect post yesterday on Orphan Sunday this would have been it. I am thankful No Greater Joy Mom shares the same burden and was able to express her heart better than I ever could have! I challenge you, friends, to read this post by No Greater Joy Mom....because if not us, then who?


http://www.nogreaterjoymom.com/2012/11/if-not-us-then-who.html

"Maternity" Pictures

 Already loved more than you know, Baby Girl!

 

 

Happy Day-LID!!!!

Today we received notification from our agency that CCCWA has given us a log-in date (LID) of 10/31/12!!! This is soooo exciting because it means the next step will be seeing our little girl's face. This week has been a big week for us...on Monday my heart skipped a beat when we received notification that our dossier was delivered to the CCCWA in China. The email stated it usually takes 3 weeks to receive a LID...so I am sure you can imagine my surprise when I received an email this morning stating we had a LID...in THREE DAYS...NOT THREE WEEKS!

Also, this week, we got some not so exciting news...we were denied an adoption grant we had worked really hard on and were sooo hoping for to help cover the additional $13,000.00 we need. Nick told me several times he didn't think we would get the grant, but I was praying for the impossible. So I am sure you can imagine my disappointed when I opened up the letter stating we didn't make the cut:(

Well, thankfully God knew my disappointment and sent me a little devotion to encourage me, CHALLENGE me, and really ask me if I can trust Him? Can I wait patiently on Him, trusting in His perfect timing? Can I believe He has our best in mind and is working on our behalf?

If there is one thing I have learned on this adoption journey is that with each step of faith we see God's provision. Sure, I wanted that grant...and I wanted it now. But God already knew that wouldn't be the path of funding for us...and He is behind the wheel...and He will provide...I just need to trust.

Dossier to China (DTC)

Here is what I received in my inbox on FRIDAY!!!

Subject: Congratulations--Dossier sent to China!!

CONGRATULATIONS, Nick & Katie,

                                                    

Here’s the news you’ve long been waiting for—your dossier was sent to China today(10/26)!  Hooray!  J

Here’s what to expect for the next month:

The CCCWA will receive your dossier in approximately 3-5 business days. Our China Department will contact you by email once your dossier has been received by our representatives in China and hand-delivered to the CCCWA.

The CCCWA usually logs in dossiers within 3 weeks of their receipt.  This Log-In Date is called your LID, the date that you may “coun t d own” to your referral.  We will e-mail you as soon as we have confirmation of your LID and will then give you instructions on how to download your LID Packet.  Your LID will also be posted on your “My Adoption” page of the CCAI website, www.ccaifamily.org, the instant we are notified of it.

Now that you’ve reached this huge milestone, the ladies in the Child Match Department will be monitoring your file and contacting you with regards to any required updates and/or information that’s needed between now and when you receive your match.  Should you need to reach that department directly, please contact Kate DeTrent at childmatch@chinesechildren.org or 303-850-9998, ext. 43 or Andrea Gerome at childmatch2@chinesechildren.org or 303-850-9998, ext. 37.  If you have a Medical Conditions Checklist ( MCC ) on file with our agency for consideration of a match of a child(ren) with special needs through our Waiting Child Program and have questions regarding your personal wait timeline, please contact the Waiting Child Department directly.

Again, congratulations! If you have any questions about this e-mail, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Congrats on hitting this milestone,

CCAI Dossier Team 

 

Waiting

I really feel like shouting from the mountain tops...our dossier is complete!!! This last six months has been FILLED with paperwork, autobiographies, home study, mailings, appointments, fundraisers, etc. I feel like I can finally take a breath and focus on my family. It is absolutely mind boggling to think that this huge step is complete and next we wait...AGAIN!  We wait for the precious little girl that God has for us to be revealed. We wait for permission to go get her. We wait to meet her. Waiting is no fun! I recently re-read a post I wrote while I was waiting on Nick to say yes to adoption. I re-post here-

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

While I am Waiting

(This is a post I put on our totsites the day before Nick said "yes"...I wanted to put it here as well so it is all in one place)

So to most of you it is no surprise that I am desperate to adopt! I have so much I want to share about this it kind of overwhelms me! The Lord has laid so many cool things on my heart in the last months that I want to share. Mostly, so I don't forget and see Him working during this phase of our life, but also so our friends and family can share this incredible journey with us! More importantly, one day, I hope our sweet little girl will be able to look back at these posts and know how MUCH we loved and wanted her!
So, God has really done a number on me in these past months. To say that I have had a total heart makeover is an understatement.  I have prayed many prayers to have my heart burdened for what burdens His and he certainly did answer.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27
I can no longer turn over at night and pretend there aren't orphans...TONS of them around this world. I can no longer pretend that some aren't hungry, some aren't scared, some don't know LOVE of any kind, and some don't have incredible special needs. My heart aches! I recently came across this prayer on one of my favorite new blogs (No Hands But Ours). Man, did it speak to me!
Lord Christ,

You have no body on earth but ours,
No hands but ours,
No feet but ours.
Ours are the eyes through which your compassion must look out on the world.
Ours are the feet by which you may still go about doing good.
Ours are the hands with which You bless people now.
Bless our minds and bodies,
That we may be a blessing to others.

St. Theresa of Avila
So, I am completely burdened (thank you Lord) and I have no idea how this journey will end. I can say with confidence that I am learning the difficult lessons of patience and submission to the One who holds all power in His hands WHILE I WAIT!

One of my favorite songs at this point in our journey-
While I'm Waiting by John Waller

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

 

Well, now today, Oct. 15,2012 we are still waiting and this post has more meaning than ever...it's no longer about a desperation to adopt....it is about a desperation to meet our daughter, to hold her, to love her, to provide for her. Yes, we are still waiting, waiting on you Lord, but we are hopeful, though it is painful, but patiently we will wait.

 

A purple girl car!

Gavin and I recently had a discussion about how we have so much...a home, toys, food, each other...while others like baby sister don't. Without missing a beat, he runs to the play room and brings back the only thing that resembles a girl in the entire room-a purple matchbox car (I am assuming he relates purple to girls). He says with the sweetest voice ever, "Oh I know baby sister can play with this purple girl car in China!" I seriously could have cried right then and there. Thank you God for my precious boy...thank you that we have the opportunity to teach him so much while on this adoption journey. Thank you God that the "giving" part seems to come natural for him. 

Almost DONE!

Yesterday, I sent off the bulk of our dossier to CCAI for critical review! Once I get the last two docs back from the Consulate in Houston we will be DONE!! Now, the excitement and anticipation can really begin! I have started daydreaming about what she will look like, her name (hopefully Nick will soon agree to the name I love-a combination of Gavin and Ethan's name), and what I want her room to look like. I daydream about our trip to pick her up and officially becoming "paper pregnant." I don't think I am the only one ready for the "little sister." We met a Chinese family at the pool a couple days ago and Gavin would not let their daughter out of his sight. They had such a wonderful time playing together and I had just as much fun talking to her mom. I cannot learn enough about China!!!! We love you "little sister!" We all are praying for you! Your family awaits!!

Adopt Speak and more

When we first began the adoption journey I read tons of blogs and easily became overwhelmed at all the acronyms and numbers used to describe various families points in their journey. Now, I speak the language. So many languages to learn...at this point one would think Mandarin would be important, but just to navigate your way through this crazy process you have to learn "adopt speak" as I now call it. I am now a fluent "adopt speaker" and very excited to say that we now have our I-797!!!!!! This is soooooo HUGE for all those familiar with this process. Basically, given our home study, fingerprints, and other application documents the United States has approved us to adopt a child from the P.R. of China:) This is the last major part of compiling our dossier. The incredible part of this is that from the time I was fingerprinted to the time we got our approval in the mail was five days!! From what I understand it can usually take several weeks once you attend your fingerprint appointment. So, here is the other HUGE part of this...this means almost positively that the little girl God has planned for us has already been born! Those who can relate know how bittersweet this can be...our daughter is waiting for us, but while she waits she is not in our care...she is living in an institution without a mommy and daddy. I recently read a book by Kay Bratt called Silent Tears: Life in a Chinese Orphanage which has impacted me greatly. At this point, I have a difficult time talking about my bittersweet feelings. Those who love me and even those who don't-I challenge you to read this book. First and foremost, because I believe it's important for us to be educated and not turn a blind eye to what is happening in this world.  Second, those who love me would understand some of the bittersweet feelings and why I am a bit emotional these days.

Most days, I have great intentions to sit and write a great blog post, but have a hard time gathering my thoughts...this certainly has been one of the most incredible growing experiences and we are not even holding our daughter yet. I want to do better at sharing...I will try!!

For now, baby sister, you brothers await:)

Two little books

Of all the documents we received in the mail for this adoption these two have had the MOST impact! Two little books that will take us across the world to meet our little girl...kind of crazy really! Most days, I really don't think much past the tasks at hand (mounds of paperwork, grant applications, etc). I chose not to let my mind wander to what those weeks in China will be like because wandering brings an overwhelming flood of emotions. But these two books were kind of like a wake up call! This is happening...we actually have passports...that will actually be used not for a trip to Fiji or Mexico, but to add a daughter to our family. I have dreamed of this since 1995 and it is ACTUALLY happening! Our daugher, based on the timeline given to us, has already made her debut into this world. Her mother has most likely already made the horrific decision to let her go and she is probably already living in an orphanage. Our daughter...in an orphanage and alone...without us!!! This is why I take it day by day...these thoughts would be enough to fill my day with tears. However, these passports are a LIGHT...a visual encouragement that we are one step closer to holding our baby girl. One step closer to China!

Update

I haven't posted in a while!!! This summer has been so busy. It's hard to believe BACK TO SCHOOL is right around the corner. We have made some great progress despite the craziness these last couple months. While we were in the mountains with my parents our Home Study was finalized and our USCIS filing was sent in. This week we received our receipt from USCIS and we are just waiting on our fingerprint invitation. Once our fingerprints are complete I have read it can take USCIS anywhere from 60-90 days to process our application and approve us as adoptive parents. We also applied for our passports this week and ordered the last of our dossier photos (which you can see here). It's ALL coming together. I hope that everything will be done and in China by October. Currently, we are working on our application for the Show Hope grant-deadline is Aug. 31st. Praying that we might receive some support from that incredible organization!

Not much to report on the fundraising front since our July Poker Tournament. We have been focused on grant applications (which are quite involved) and not feeling super guilty about taking the month off since my friend Celeste Carr has offered to match funds donated through Carpet One in Winter Park up to $1,000.00. Celeste really inspires me...she is one of the most giving and kind ladies...her support has meant so much to us!

If you wish to make a donation WHICH WILL BE MATCHED DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR to our fund please mail a check made out to Carpet One (memo-Peterman Adoption) to:

Carpet One
Attn: Celeste Carr
900 S. Orlando Ave.
Winter Park, FL 32789

You can also drop by that physical address as well if you live in the area.

We are just so thankful for the kindness of others...I will never be able to say that enough. There is no way we could do this on our own (despite our best saving $ efforts).

Next update will hopefully report that our dossier is on its way to CHINA!!

More poker pictures

 Another dossier shot! WAHOO no sleeveless shirts or hats!

 Amy (my favorite SIL) was such a wonderful help!

 My business partner (and friend) Ashley and her mom!

 Sisters and friends (and the worker bees)

 Charlie (my lil bro) and Amy



Fun times! Good friends! So thankful!

Home Study Round 2

We finished the last part of our home study this past Monday. Our last visit with our social worker, Kat, till post adoption. I am still in shock that we are really doing this...on one hand it seems like this madness just begun, but on the other hand it feels like we have been in the process for SOOOO long. Really, we applied to adopt at the end of February...so we are just hitting the 5 month mark and have almost completed our dossier. Once our home study passes the review process we can apply with the UCSIS for approval which can take 60 days (or more). Once we get their approval one more batch will need to be sent to the Secretary of State and then the Houston Consulate...and then we are finished! Well, minus passports and a couple more photos! Darn me for wearing too many hats and sleeveless shirts...I mess up all potential photos. So the point is we are on the home stretch folks! I had a dream last night we got our referral...I woke up feeling all sorts of emotions. Mostly excitement, but also fear...fear of what her life is like now...fear of traveling...fear of leaving my boys...fear of her not being able to attach...fear, fear, fear!

And then I was reminded of what God says about fear-

There is no fear in love: but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:18

This is friendship

Email from my friend Meredith today-

Hey Katie,

 

Below is the email that I sent to the Ellen Show. I also sent your website.. :) Fingers crossed that we hear from them. Unfortunately I only had 1500 characters to send in the email so I had to be brief!

 

 

Dear Ellen,

I like the way you make me laugh and I love the way you dance! You end every show with "Be kind to one another". What powerful words at a time when hate seems so prevalant in the world.
 I am writing because I have some dear friends, Katie and Nick Peterman that are going to adopt a special needs child from China. A very selfless act. I couldnt think of a kinder more loving family or a better way for people to "Be kind to one another". They believe this is their calling and as friends we have rallied to help them. This is very expensive so fundraisers have started.
Thats when I thought of you! You help so many families and frequently it brings tears to my eyes. It would mean so much for me to be able to make a connection for them that would bring their little girl home. There is a child in need and they are willing to help. They have already done some of their home studies but the majority of their expenses will be in the cost of the adoption and the traveling to/from China. I would love to share their entire story and journey with you and be able to introduce your audience to this amazing family! I look forward to hearing from you or one of your staff! We hope that this adoption story will bring awareness to adoption and make people smile, the way you are able to, on a daily basis! Thank you!
Meredith

 

A few poker pics

Poker Prep Headquarters



Final table



Uncle Charlie won 3rd place and won the bike raffle

Poker for a Purpose was a SUCCESS

*No energy for blog posts lately so I copied and pasted Nick's follow-up email to the players from yesterday to document how great yesterday was!

 

I just wanted to thank all of you once again for playing in my "Poker for a Purpose" adoption fundraiser today.  I hope you all had a great time and felt that you received high value for your dollars spent!  I have to say that your generosity was overwhelming.  This was, by far, the most successful fundraiser we've done so far, and it wouldn't have been possible without all of you!  I have to once again thank our sponsors: Davis Bakery, Eastside Bistro, Yoga East, Avalon All-Star Cuts, Unique Cakes, Nails at the Park, Tuffy Auto Service Centers, Avalon Management, Avalon Realty, Flying Coozie, Championship Martial Arts, Monster Energy Drinks, Coca-Cola, Simply Speaking Speech Therapy, and Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club.  Our sponsors were kind enough to provide all participants with goodies such as gift cards, coupons, and free stuff in addition to providing generous raffle prizes.  I'd also like to thank all of you who helped us by lending tables, bringing food, helping setup, and spreading the word to others.  You guys are awesome! 

 

I realize that I didn't take time to discuss the true purpose of "Poker for a Purpose" today.  Katie and I included a thank you letter in your goodie bag today which provides information/resources regarding our adoption journey.  Along with our adoption blog website, it lists a couple of our ongoing online fundraisers such as fundraising t-shirts and specialty coffee.   

 

I'd love to hear some feedback regarding today's event.  Does anyone think that they might participate in an event like this again in the future?  

 

Thanks again for your participation and God Bless!

 

Nick 

 

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me."  -Matthew 18:5

 

 

Home Study Round One

So excited to say our first Home Study visit is complete and it went great! Our social worker (and newly retired agency director), Kat, was a wonderful resource and I think we passed with flying colors. Our house is already ready for a new little addition since we have a four and two year old. No child proofing needed:) Her biggest concern...over stimulating our little girl who may have never been exposed to toys with too many. We got asked some tough questions, but nothing we hadn't already addressed in our autobiographies or discussed previously. Kat gave us a little better idea of our timeline...although, it is just a guesstimate and we won't know for sure until we are matched. BUT, she said our dossier would probably get logged in in China sometime in September and we could possibly be matched by the end of the year. Which would have us traveling sometime in the New Year. We are in no rush and really trusting God's perfect timing on this one. I just keep praying for our little girl, who based on the timeline above has probably already been born...her mom has probably already made the decision to let her go...and she is probably already living in an orphanage. OUR LITTLE GIRL...praying God's protection over her FOREVER and especially until we can get to her!

Back at it!

Just another reminder about our upcoming fundraiser! Please let us know if you are in by signing up at eventbrite or emailing Nick (NAPeterman83@yahoo.com) so we can plan accordingly.

In other news, our Home Study is set for THIS Thursday morning. I haven't had a second to think about preparations or anything else for that matter. My childhood best friend's mom has had some major health problems in recent months and passed away this past Tueday...needless to say, my mind and heart have been distracted. My heart is broken for Natalie as her momma was also her best friend. The hardest days are yet to come for her I am afraid as life is supposed to get back to "normal" and Natalie's "normal" will never be that way again. I loved Pam Gourley as well...but know Jesus loved her as well and she loved Jesus. Today she is with Him and is in pain no more...therefore, we have HOPE! Still doesn't change our sorrow here in this broken world.

Natalie and her Momma, Pam Gourley, who read this blog and was so excited for our plans to adopt. Mrs. Gourley you will be missed!

Answered Prayer

I think it is sooooo cool when God answers a VERY specific prayer! I have been praying for "friends" to go through this adoption journey with. God clearly answered that prayer by putting Teresa Altman, Karen Foster, and now the Juliano family in my life. I have known Karen for years now, but she is a new adoption resource blessing. A couple months ago (after only a week or two of praying for friends) my parents were randomly introduced to Teresa in my home town. Teresa is just a few months ahead of us in the adoption process. Her family is adopting a SN little girl from China with CCAI (our agency too) and also FUNDRAISING...how's that for an answered prayer! The story of our connection to the Juliano's is complicated and God orchestrated! And yesterday, I met their family for the first time. What an incredible, incredible blessing they are!

We spent the afternoon and evening with the Juliano's. I cannot say how thankful I am for this new friendship! We had a GREAT time getting to know them and seeing their little Lily who is just too precious for words!

Gavin and Lily became instant friends and I can't explain how amazing it was to see them form a bond. Now Gavin can understand just a wee bit better about his sister from China:)! And I am already looking forward to many more adventures with our girls (and boys).

Lesson learned-no prayer is too big or small or silly for God! It is important to share this journey with people who "understand". God knows that and I am thankful!

Poker for a Purpose

We don't really waste time around here! One fundraiser down...another one planned! This one is all Nick...I am just the promoter! Please consider some poker fun to help get us another step closer to our girl!

YARD SALE FUN!

What a awesome fundraiser! Our Adopt Without Debt book said garage sale fundraisers are great to raise a big chunk of money, but they are really tough...and that is true! There is NO way we could have done with without the support of so many.

Gavin and Ethan were the biggest supporters:)! They made sure all the toys were in working order. As I priced and packed them, they unpacked them and played with them.

Nick was our heavy lifter and pick up man! Of course he had some help with loading and unloading...Gavin and Ethan were so helpful as they ran up and down the ramp. We were very blessed to use this trailer and truck. Dustin and Brooke Janney you ROCK!

My mom will kill me for this one, but it gives a good idea of how hard we worked. This shows the almost fully loaded and priced garage. She was a queen at organizing! Thanks mom...also Brooke, Emily, and Melissa who organized and priced!

I was touched by all of the donations...so many of you gave to us! Some I never would have expected. Some I didn't even know. This rocking chair donation was one of the most touching. Shelley Knickle saw our need and though she didn't know us GAVE so much for us to sell including this rocking chair she hand painted for her girls nurseries. 

My sweet crew-Ginger, Andrea, Ginny, and Stella...you gave up your entire Saturday for us! And for that matter for a GARAGE sale. I think now how much has changed since college...our days of deciding what mall we should go to are long gone. Now days are filled with kids, kindness, and support! We have been through a LOT together...a garage sale should seem meaningless, but your support of us and this cause means more to me than I will ever be able to say. THANK YOU!

It was a great day! We raised over 1600.00. Between saving and fundraising we have enough to pay our next agency fee which will be due very soon and our USCIS filing. Thank YOU to all those who donated...without your donations this would have never have been possible. Thank YOU to all those who priced and organized...I can't even imagine how I would have tackled the completely filled garage alone. Thank YOU to all those who helped set-up...Blanca, Linda, Paul, Rich, April, Ginger, Heidi, Brianna, Dad...7:00 am comes very early on a Saturday morning we realize this task wasn't on your list of top fun things to do on a Saturday which is why we appreciate you even more. Thank YOU mom and dad for helping with the sale and most importantly with the boys so we didn't have to pay for a sitter! We are so incredibly blessed to see giving in action...it is difficult to be the "receiver." We are so humbled and grateful!

One dossier photo down...7 more to go!

Another dossier photo accomplished! Love my sweet family!

147 Million

At one time it was estimated that there were 147 MILLION orphans in this world! 147 MILLION!!! In recent research it is estimated that there are currently approximately 143 MILLION orphans. I mean, either number you look at it's seriously alarming!

The truth is that the 143 million orphaned children and the 11 million who starve to death or die from PREVENTABLE diseases and the 8.5 million who work as child slaves, prostitutes, or under other horrific conditions and the 2.3 million who live with HIV add up to 164.8 million needy children. And though at first glance that looks like a BIG number, 2.1 billion people on the earth proclaim to be Christians.

The truth is that if only 8 percent of  the Christians would care for one more child there would not be any statistics left.-Katie Davis Kisses from Katie

Only 8 percent of Christians need to act...we need education...we need to know that we can make a difference! This needs to be shouted from the roof-tops...in churches, in homes, in schools! But it is not...and that is discouraging! But still, we have the power to make a difference...only 8 percent of us who proclaim to be Christians have the power to put an end to these statistics. In James we hear over and over we need to not just be hearers of the word, but DOers!!

I have said over and over that Nick and I are changed! God has not only given us a heart for adoption but a serious burden for the helpless and needy children of this world. We WILL be one of the 8 percent that makes a difference for one. Although, I already acknowledge it won't stop with one:)!

So, all this to say you can help us make a difference for one and for many at the same time! We have teamed up with http://www.147millionorphans.com/ to help fundraise for our own adoption. In addition to helping us, by pre-ordering a tee-shirt or other merchandise from us, your purchases will help feed other orphans throughout this world. And MORE importantly, call awareness to this epidemic!

Here is what you need to do-
-Check out http://www.147millionorphans.com/
-Decide what cute (or handsome) shirt you might want to wear
-Email me at KatieSLP83@yahoo.com with your selection
-I will order and deliver to you

How blessed is he who considers the helpless.Psalm 41:1

Quick Update

We have been chugging along with all our paperwork...I finished my last item (bloodwork) in order for our home study to start this morning. Once Nick completes his physical and bloodwork this week hopefully we will move to the home study portion of this crazy journey! We will still have lots of paperwork to send to the Secretary of the State and then to Houston to the Chinese Consulate, but atleast most of it is in our possession now! It is exciting to be making progress and checking off to-do's! We have our yard sale next weekend and the Scentsy fundraiser will be up through May and then hopefully with God's permission we will take a fundraising break for the summer:) I am tired, but not overwhelmed...really growing...learning this life is NOT about us!!! I am reading a book by Katie Davis called Kisses from Katie right now...if you want to be challenged READ this book! I will have lots to write about that when I finish the book! That's all for now friends!!

Whatever God-by No Greater Joy Mom

I had to copy this post from No Greater Joy Mom-Whatever God (http://www.nogreaterjoymom.com/) because it is just so PERFECT! For us, our hearts have been so burdened (that tennis ball lump in my throat is exactly what I feel with streams of tears strolling down my face) as I read stories of children desperate for HELP! For us, God has stirred our hearts for more than just adoption! He has stirred our hearts for those who suffer...especially children...the least of these; the helpless.

I sat at my computer way too late last night. A lump the size of a tennis ball lodged firmly in my throat. 

Hundreds!  There were hundreds of them.  All desperate.  All worthy.  All deserving. 

All needing just one thing.

A family to call their own.

Hundreds and hundreds of children waiting all over the world for someone to come and save them from their absolutely miserable existence.

And I wondered.  Again.

Where is the body of Christ?  I stared at the sweet faces looking back at me from my computer screen, fighting back tears, and I remembered the lyrics of a Casting Crowns song.

But if we are the body
Why aren't His arms reaching?
Why aren't His hands healing?
Why aren't His words teaching?
And if we are the body
Why aren't His feet going?
Why is His love not showing them there is a way?
There is a way!

I’m going to be brutally honest with you all today.  I struggle with all this.  That’s not to say that I have always been this way.  There was a time in my life, not so very long ago, when I would have taken the easy road at all costs—a time when living a life of complete surrender to my Father in heaven was so foreign to me.

Little did we know back then that His bigger picture for our lives was beginning to unfold.  Little did we know that a beautiful seed had been planted in our hearts. God was beginning to change us from the inside out! It was in that season of waiting for the test results to come back that we began to use an expression which has come to be our family motto in life--“Whatever, God!”

And that’s pretty much the way we have lived our lives ever since.

“Whatever, God!”

“God will enable us!”

I smile when people comment about how they could just never adopt a child with special needs and how we are so courageous to do that.  While I appreciate the sweet comments very much, I can honestly tell you with all my heart that neither one of those two statements is accurate.

Anthony and I are probably the last people on the planet who would have been God’s first choice to go and rescue children with profound special needs.  Seriously!  You know how there are some people who you look at and think, “Yeah, they can definitely do that job!” 

Well, that’s not us! 

People who have known us for years and years look at us and wonder how we ever got to this point in our lives.  I know some of them look at us and think, “Really?  The Salems?  God must have been desperate!"  (Just kidding...sort of.)

But...

“Whatever, God!’

We were willing. 

Available.

Come.  What.  May.

God doesn’t look for perfection—He looks for a willingness to follow HIM with reckless abandon.

I would be rich if I had a penny for every time someone said, “I’m so glad there are people like you in the world because I could never do what you do!”

Really?  I beg to differ.

You know what I think?  I think a statement like that takes the pressure off them to actually DO something about it.  I think it’s easy to write it off as being someone else's “calling.”  We’re NOT special, or amazing, or wonderful.  Nooooo!  On the contrary, we’re sinners saved by grace.  The most ordinary of ordinary you could possibly find.  If we wrote a book on parenting, you probably wouldn’t want to read it because we really don’t have any great insight into how to parent a child.  Anthony and I are the fly by the seat of our pants and figure things out as we go along kinda people. We definitely do not have it all figured out.

But we are willing.

And that’s all God needs.  Willing hearts.

My heart aches for the hundreds of children who are waiting for someone to come for them.  Why?  Because I believe with all my heart that we, the body of Christ, have already been “called” to do it.

We really have, you know.  It’s right there in the book of James.

But we don’t!  We wait.  We pray.  We ask Him for divine confirmation.  We wait for the Lord to come and sit down next to us and audibly say, “Go!” 

And yet,  I think God looks down from heaven and shakes His head at us. “Have I not already given you the command?”  He must wonder.

“Is my Word not confirmation enough of what I REQUIRE?”

If my neighbor was starving to death, had nothing to eat, had no clothes to wear, and was in a desperate situation, I wouldn’t hesitate to rush over there at lightning speed to do everything in my power to help out.  Nothing would hold me back!  I wouldn’t wait for God to give me a “calling” to do it.  Why then do we wait to be “called” when it comes to the orphan?  What’s that about?  Has He not already given us the REQUIREMENT?  Is that not enough?

I think that sometimes we use that word “calling” just a little too conveniently.  To say “It’s not my calling” sure can be a great way to get out of something we just don’t feel like doing.  But “caring for the orphan” is NOT A CALLING, friends.  It’s a command.  Huge difference.

When I look at people in the Bible, I see ordinary folks just like us.  God never chose people who were born amazing in every way to do the extraordinary things.  No, He chose sinners, weak, frail, inadequate, simple people.  What turned those humble beings into some of the greatest heroes and role models who have ever walked the earth was just one little word.  That’s all it took, really--

“Yes!”

It’s amazing to me how one tiny three-lettered word can turn an ordinary life into something that is so extraordinary, so amazing for HIS glory.

“Yes!”

If you are one of the many, many people who have written to me recently about opening your hearts and your home to a child who has special needs, but are feeling like you are not equipped for the task, please be encouraged today.  Know that God is NOT looking for people who have it all together. Nor is He looking for those who have huge homes, adequate retirement funds, fabulous jobs, or empty nests.  No, God is looking for those who are willing.  He is roaming the earth looking for ordinary folks who are willing to be used by the Almighty Father.  God is looking for people who are willing to step out of their comfortable little boats, face the raging sea, and trust that God will meet them on the other side….for the sake of a child who so desperately needs them.

The more ordinary we are, the more His glory shines through our lives.  The more inadequate we feel, the more opportunity He has to reach down from heaven and show us that with Him ALL things are possible! 

Someone once said that, “God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called.”  I agree.

Since we’re already called, I guess that means we CAN parent these precious children who so desperately need us.

Yes, indeed.  “Whatever, God!”

God is looking for those through whom He can do the impossible --- what a pity that we plan only the things that we can do by ourselves.    A.W. Tozer

Scentsy Fundraiser

I am totally back at it as you can tell! So here is another fundraiser...this stuff is AMAZING!!! Scensty is a great way to scent your entire home without fire...I love the warmers and how the light shines from the warmer holes. It makes your home smell great and feel so cozy! Please consider purchases...20 percent of all the purchases will go toward our adoption!

http://www.donisahughes.scentsy.us/
Katie Peterman Party-Shop Now

Many THANKS to Traci McKown and her sweet mother in law, Donisa, for setting this up for us!

Yard Sale Fundraiser-May 19th

If you read my last post (just posted a few minutes ago), I am no longer on hiatus from fundraising! God has called us to adopt and He will provide, but that doesn't mean I should sit on my hiney while I wait! So it is with great boldnesss that I ask for your used items...donate them to us to help us raise support for our adoption! My good friend Brooke recently encouraged me by saying..."if you had all the money you needed in the bank and just could write a check where would God be in that." Thank you, Brooke! We don't have the money we need in the bank so please help us to raise it! Your junk could make a big impact for a little one in China! Contact me if you would like to donate (and we can arrage a pick up) or would like to volunteer....we need many more! Andrea Eason and I aren't going to cut it alone:) But many thanks to you, Andrea, for being such a faithful friend and encouraging me to do this fundraiser!

Greater Boldness

This last week, as I have mentioned, has not been one of the best...I am just going to be honest here, I have been doubting God...doubting his ability to perform miracles today (even though I KNOW he is quite capable), doubting His providence and sovereignty. I am not proud to admit this as I long for the faith to move mountains...but it has just been one of those weeks that I have felt God's plan for us seems impossible. I will also admit that I have been so discourgaged by fundraising, asking for support, seeking help, etc. This is one area that I thought would be "easy" in the scheme of things. I look back now and realize how silly that was, but I was so much more prepared for all the stress to be involved in compiling our dossier, but DEFINITELY not prepared by the ups and down that asking for support brings. We have totally put ourselves out there. It just kind of stinks sometimes when everyone doesn't understand this mission! So, what did I do...I "quit"...well, in my mind I quit. Yes, I gave up!

Well, today Pastor Dale preached on the Church Redefined from Acts 2-4. Okay, can I just say...whoaaa...God had a message just for me today. In general, the message was this-that we must "GO" and be "BOLD" for Christ. We should be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and the opportunities that are given to us to reach this world for Christ. The application to our current situation came in this- Peter and John were preaching the gospel bringing thousands to Christ and performing miracles. The Sanhedrin was greatly disturbed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead (Acts 4:2). As Pastor Dale put it, they were pointing their fingers at Peter and John scolding them for preaching what they believed...Jesus! And what did Peter and John do...I bet you can guess they did NOT sulk (like me) or as for protection for themselves. They joined their people and prayed for greater boldness. Acts 4:29, Now, Lord, consider these threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. I am sure Peter and John were afraid (possibly even for their lives), but did they QUIT, did they give up? No, they did what Jesus told them TO DO and obeyed! They greatly proclaimed the gospel and brought many, many more to Christ. They ACTED in BOLDNESS for what God called them to.

The fact is, we are all called to preach the gospel! We are also all called to make a difference in this world. For all of us, that will look different. For Nick and I our mission (our "GO" our "TO DO") is not only adoption, it is to bring awareness to the orphans of this world and what the love of Jesus Christ looks like in action. We should do so with BOLDNESS! I will always now think of John and Peter and the fingers pointed in their faces by their opposition when I get discouraged. There will always be opposition (even though I didn't want to believe it) when you are trying to fulfill missions for Christ. In fact, Pastor Dale said it very well, "Anytime you are being used there will be opposition! In fact, if there isn't opposition we are doing something wrong."

Give me greater boldness oh God!

I leave this post with a few short verses from one of worship songs today by The Church- Now's the time for us to rise and carry hope to hopeless eyes And show this world that mercy is alive. Fill our hearts with Your compassion Let our love be active here!

Gavin Turns FOUR!

Another totsite post here because I am lacking great adoption updates and insight! Feeling somewhat discouraged...not about adoption itself because I still feel we are called to do this...just all the other stuff that goes along with it! Not going to speak about the discouraging part here because there is soooo much to be ENCOURAGED about! Especially when we have a FOUR year old in our house! I cannot imagine what I did before I had kids...only four years have gone by since I laid eyes on my first precious gift from God. Fours years...so short, but long enough to not remember too much about life before Gavin Nicolas. Life with Gavin is so much better than without Gavin! Words will never do justice about my feelings for my sweet boy, but I will try!

Gavin, You are mommy's dream come true...much like the book we read so much "God Gave Us You." You are my little pea in the pod! Daddy says we are so much alike and I would have to agree. We are the talkers in our family. We don't like messes and always take our shoes off in houses:)! But you are more like your daddy in other areas...you are sooooo smart and kind! You bring so much joy to our house and every adventure with you is more fun! I love that you are sweet and sensitive and especially that you already love Jesus! Every night before bed you still ask, "Who is going to be here soon?" Now you can answer all by yourself..."Mommy, daddy, Ethan, Gavin, Jesus and God." I love your sweet spirit and that you already know "Jesus and God" will be here when we wake! I love that when you are not being kind to Pauly that I can say what does Jesus say about sharing...you reply that He says "Be kind to one another!" You are my joy and my bud! I love you more than words! Happy birthday, sweet pea! You are my everything, Mommy

Success!

I wanted to say a HUGE thank you to all of you who came out to support us last night and BOUGHT cake pops-we sold out and raised over $700.00! It was so encouraging to see so many of your faces...especially since a lot of you came just to help us! Many thanks to Amber Emmons Paquet who worked extremely hard! Also to Michelle Matarazzo who was the co-captian! Also thank you to all those who helped bake,bag and bow as well! My cup runneth over! Look for more fundraisers to come! And don't forget the Thirty One fundraiser ends today at 8:00 pm

Cake Pops!!!!

CALLING all east side/Avalon friends!!! Please, please, please come by our Cake Pop booth at Absolutely Avalon THIS Sat. from 5:00-9:00 pm. We will be to the right of the stage. Buy an amazing cake pop and enter for your chance to win an order of cake pops for your next party from Bite Sized! Petite Sweets! Her cake pops are delish. Saturday we will feature mint chocolate chip, strawberry shortcake, funfetti, death by chocolate, and vanilla cake pops! YUMMO!!! See you Saturday!

Orientation

We had a phone conference orientation last night with CCAI. If I thought the maddness had already begun...I had NO IDEA what more was in store. My friend, Kim, let me see their dossier, but oh my word, hearing exactly what was entailed in getting documents certified for China standards is CRAZY! Just to enlighten those of you who aren't familiar with international adoption in order for a document to go through authentication it has to go through a ton of offices. For example, in order for our birth certificates to be up to China standards they have to be notarized, then sent to the secretary of state who will certify it, then we must send it to the Chinese Consulate in Houston, TX to authenticate it. This has to happen for about 15 documents needed for our dossier. We need physicals, police clearance reports, passports, financial statements, employment verifications, etc. I am not even going to go into what a home study entails. And we will also need to work on I-797 by the USCIS. I don't even know what that really is yet, but I know it's a 26 page application...

So why am I blogging instead of working? In the weeks to come there will be a lot less blogging and a lot more document chasing. If you want to see me maybe we can set a date at the sheriff's office, physicians office, or feel free to come along for fingerprints.

Non-Adoption Fun

I haven't posted in a couple days...we have been busy focusing on The Peterman Farm Party for the boys birthday. I think of it as one last, planned before adoption, extravaganza! I love party planning (hey, that might be a good way to fundraise...anyone want to hire me...lol), but it is exhausting in the midst of international adoption. However, it was so nice to focus on fun for my boys and their friends and leave all the other stresses of life behind for a few days! And, now I am done with thinking about birthday parties for another year:) I posted this to our totsites, but thought I would share here...more pics to come soon, hopefully!

We had an fun filled weekend! I had such a great time, but TODAY, the exhaustion has set in and this mama is sooooo TIRED!!!! Thanks to many people (who I will list later in the this post because they are so awesome that I must mention by name) the boys had a great party on The Peterman Farm! Our backyard was transformed for the big day and everything was just sooo cute if I do say so myself. Gavin was so happy the party was finally happening since he spent months looking through the party stuff in my closet. He said his favorite part of the day was the puppet show. Ethan's favorite part was the bounce house I am sure...he LOVED it. The only drawback was that the bounce house arrived at 7:00 am and the party didn't start until 10:00 so Pauly was worn out before his guests even arrived. At one point in the party, Gavin also decided he was ready for bed, but got his second wind when we offered cake! I love planning the boys parties and I love themes! I do NOT love the clean up involved, but it was all worth it to see all the kids having so much fun and to have my family and friends all together at one time especially our little Sebring/Avon Park travelers. So here comes the thank you part....Gavin and Ethan when you read this one day you will know how much you are loved (and how much your mommy is too).

Mom/Em, Thank you so much for EVERYTHING you did (and Dad too). The centerpieces were adorable and the food was so yummy. Thanks for raiding your house for all things farm and helping me DO everything even setting up/cooking at 5:00 am. Most of all, thank you that you love us so much that these things aren't a chore to you...you enjoy them! You and dad are the best and so giving!

Peep nests made by Em

Auntie Amber-Thank you for ALL your help. Thank you for the cake pops...they were pure perfection and we all LOVED them! Thanks for arranging the precious cake at a steal! And for all your help setting up too.

Auntie Shell-Thanks for giving us the hay and hauling it here! It made the FARM. Thanks for stuffing eggs and for helping us the night before too. And of course, for always being my photographer!

Lisa-I don't know if you even read this, but you are the sweetest person I know. I am so glad to know you and that Gavin got to spend a year in your class. Thank you for making the trees and the banner...one day I will be able to repay the favor!

Food table (food hadn't come out yet) with banner made by Ms. Lisa

Ms. Katrina-Thank you for donating your time to us ...we all LOVED Kindermusic...especially Gavin! It was a hit and a perfect party addition.

Nick/Daddy-Thanks for letting me have one more party here! I know the timing wasn't the best...I would have planned it differently had I known where we would be with adoption! But you are such a good sport...you probably worked the hardest out of us all with all the set up of tents and tables and chairs and returns of all those borrowed things as well. And thank you for knowing I want it all cleaned up before we go to bed:) I love you and I love that you love our boys so much and are SOOOOO involved in their lives!

Family and Friends-Thank you for coming and loving my sweet boys!

Uncle Charlie and Ethan Paul

So now I feel like I won an Oscar with this THANK YOU speech...lol! My cup runneth over y'all!

Happy birthday sweet babies...we all love you to infinity and beyond!