BabyB....here we come!

Sweet Lucy

2011-11-16T19:47:00.002-05:00

Here is our new addition, Miss Lucy. Will, Wesley and Helen are crazy about her-she is the perfect addition to our COMPLETE family :)!!
School is going well for the boys. Will loves middle school and Wesley is Vice President of his school! Helen goes to preschool five days a week and is the "assistant teacher!" Lucy and I hang out at home but hope that as she gets a little older we will be able to venture out-just hoping it is not a cold winter!!

62 days and a Broken Foot

2011-07-22T15:03:00.004-04:00

Helen loved preschool!

I can't believe Wesley is 10!

Yes, we are now Duke fans-no, Will doesn't have a Duke blue room, yet. My brother is now working with the Duke football team so I will wear dark blue!

It sure has been a long time since I have blogged. I guess because right after my last post we received the shock of a lifetime-I am pregnant with our fourth child-a daughter-due in 62 days. Needless to say, it has been an interesting 2011-I also broke my foot 6 weeks ago at the beach (two days after the boys began their summer break.) I had surgery 2 weeks ago and still have 6-8 weeks to go before I can walk without the dreadful boot. So, basically, I will finally be boot free and then I will have a c-section, a brand new baby, and three other children. Good times, people!!

Helen is doing great-she is excited about her "pink baby" sister-she calls her this because she informed me not too long ago that pink was not her favorite color, the baby could have all of her pink things and she wanted a blue room. Yes, her room is now blue-she is the princess after all!

Will and Wesley are doing well. Will is going to middle school next year and is growing up so fast-Wesley will be in fourth grade and has been such a big help during my time of need-

It is hard to believe that we were in Ethiopia over a year and a half ago. We are so fortunate to have Helen home with us because there have been some major changes in the adoption process and a lot of families are having to wait for an extended period of time before receiving referrals, traveling (twice now), and bringing home their children. I think of these families and children constantly. It is just a heartbreaking situation.

Well, please say a prayer for me-it has been a LONG summer and I am ready to be back on my feet-I am in serious nesting mode and that is hard to do in my situation. Please also say a prayer for the children in Ethiopia and the families who long to be united with them.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T15:50:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas...from our house to yours!

Happy Gotcha Day dear Helen!!!

2010-12-07T07:50:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe that one year ago today we met Helen for the first time in Ethiopia. We cannot imagine our life without her. She has blessed us in so many ways. Thanks to everyone who supported us through the adoption process and over the last year. Happy Gotcha Day sweet baby girl.

I not sad anymore

2010-08-26T13:30:00.003-04:00

Today, Helen brought a "book" over for me to read. It was a photo album that I kept with me while we were waiting for our court date and travel. She looked at the picture of her at the top of this blog and said, "Helen's sad- I not sad anymore." Those words say it all!!

Goodbye sweet summer!!

2010-08-21T23:03:00.005-04:00

Goodbye summer!!

Annual beach trip!

Lake days with our buddies (and new neighbors!!) Helen is sweet on little B.

Celebrating my aunts birthday-

Wes and Helen at Bible School.

Summer is nearly over. It has been a great summer and the Britt family stayed pretty busy-I cannot believe that Will is going in to 5th grade and Wesley is a 3rd grader! They both have great teachers and classmates and I know that the 2010-11 school year will be a wonderful experience. Helen is going to miss her brothers so much but she will be starting preschool in a few weeks-she is only going 2 days a week for 3 hours but it will be a good time for me to go to the grocery store-alone!!!! (and BTW, why oh why do grocery stores have to put candy right where little Helen can grab them...I have bought many packs of candy because she tears into them before I can get them out of her hands!!! She is addicted to sugar-just like her mama!)

A few weeks ago, while we were at the beach, we celebrated Helen's referral day. It is hard to believe that we first saw her sweet face a year ago on August 11th-It honestly feels like she has been a part of our family for so much longer-I guess because she was in our hearts!! We are so lucky that we were chosen to be her parents.

How cute is my new blog?

2010-06-30T15:51:00.006-04:00

Our blog was in dire need of an overhaul! Becky Lee from adoptafrica.blogspot.com is raising money for her next adoption! Check her out-it's a good cause and she does a great job! Thanks Becky Lee-you were great to work with!

Summer is flying by! The boys have already been to basketball camp, Will has been to scout camp and Wesley and Helen were in bible school. This week, we have taken it easy...we have been to the pool and that is about it! I am trying to do a little cleaning here and there-good grief 5 people can sure make a mess!!!

We are going to the lake for a few days over the holiday weekend. It is Helen's first 4th of July-hope she enjoys the fireworks-let me rephrase that-I hope she sits still long enough to enjoy the fireworks! She still loves the water and I spend the entire time at the lake and pool saying, "Don't drink the dirty water" and "Spit it out!!" She is a bird.

Have a great 4th of July!!

Happy 6 months home, sweet girl!!

2010-06-15T19:53:00.003-04:00

Right before I chased her all over the putt putt course. Everytime we went over a "bridge" I had to sing the Grumpy old troll song from Dora.

Wesley riding the waves.

Helen's first summer trip to the ocean-she loved it!!

Love this picture of my oldest baby!

Will and Helen on the boat at the lake. She woke up at 5:30 am put on her life jacket over her pajamas and said, "I ready go ride boat!"

Today, Helen has been home for six months. Time certainly does fly! We have had a great 1/2 year as a family of five. I have never been more tired in my life but so very happy!!

Helen has flourished in the six months that she has been a Britt. She is so smart-and I wish I could take credit for it but she wants to learn-her favorite saying is "What's this?" She is a fish, too! She loves the lake, ocean and pool-(she did not get her love of water from me or Will...we tolerate it.) Yesterday, she started blowing bubbles under water, and kicking her legs while I pulled her along. Helen knows that she is from Ethiopia and can even point to the continent of Africa on a globe. I am amazed every day by her!!

It is hard to believe that we began this journey almost two years ago. I am so glad that we followed our hearts because now we have such a precious daughter. Many people tell us how lucky Helen is, but I think we all are. She has been such a blessing in our lives!
Happy 6 months home, Helen Gonder Britt. We love you so much!!

Missing Ethiopia

2010-05-06T20:59:00.004-04:00

Our birthday month!!

2010-04-17T20:28:00.003-04:00

Helen before her baptismal-she did such a great job-I thought she was going to baptize our minister at one point!! Her big brothers were so proud of her.

Helen riding the carousel for the first time.

Helen and her birthday cake-she loves Dora.

Our beach trip in January-As you can see, Helen does not like her picture taken.

Well, I have to admit when our case worker, Natalie, told me that Helen's birthday was in April, 5 days after Wesley's and 3 days before Will's, I had a moment of panic. I knew what this meant...April is a tough month for mom here at the Britt household-between Easter and now 3 birthdays (and throw in a baptism this April for good measure) but I am happy to say, we survived!!! Helen had a great birthday. All day she said, "Helen's birthday!" It was so cute- She is growing so quickly and learning so much. She knows all of her colors and can sing the ABC's and count to 10. I wish I could take credit for it-but she picks up on things so quickly. Her favorite saying is, "What's that?" and when you tell her, I don't think she ever forgets. She still looks at our pictures of Ethiopia and remembers some of her friends and caregivers-I know those memories are fading and it makes me so sad.

We had a play date with 7 other moms who have adopted from Ethiopia-it was so neat and we found out that one girl was in Helen's room in Ethiopia- I don't think they remembered each other but I have pictures of her from our trip. I hope that as the years go by, we can keep in contact-I know that connections with other families who have adopted from Ethiopia are so important.

Will and Wesley are doing great with their little sister. Will is perfect as Helen's big brother (he has had a lot of practice) and Wesley is like a big toy for Helen- We took Helen on her first boat ride last weekend and she LOVED it-I was worried she would not sit still because believe me she is BUSY but she did great-hopefully, she will still enjoy it this summer.

Well, I am going to go rest my weary bones before she wakes up!!!

January Update

2010-01-22T15:10:00.003-05:00

Meeting sweet baby girl for the first time. Her little friend in the crib was just united with his family-I think they were sweet on each other-he screamed, "Helen" the whole time we were meeting her-so cute.

Helen's favorite food-INJERA!!

Our dear friend and driver, Tafessa.
Ethiopia would not have been the same without him.

It is hard to believe that we have been home for over a month. Helen is wonderful-she is just unbelievable-she is learning so much and is SO smart-Will and Wesley love her and have the best time playing with her. We went to the beach for a little vacation with some friends and stayed in a hotel with an indoor water park. She loved the water and the lazy river but when we went on the beach she did not want her feet to touch the sand-it was so cute.

I think of Ethiopia every day-especially her orphans. I wish I could post pictures but it is not allowed-the one thing I do know is that the children in the care of Gladney are so loved. Helen had such a difficult transition at first when she entered the foster care center. She cried for many days. The fact that she has bonded so well and quickly to us shows that the caregivers at Gladney earned her trust and love. I am so thankful that we traveled down this path and my heart is so full-

Love to you all!

Happy New Year

2010-01-06T13:33:00.003-05:00

My two favorite boys!

Sweet girl!

Already a wolfpack fan!! When my brother gave this to Helen on Christmas morning, she ripped off her pajamas and put it on immediately!

2010 has been wonderful so far (with the exception of bronchitis for sweet Helen). Other than that, Helen is doing GREAT!! She has adjusted so well-Believe me, it is a shock! She had such a hard time when she was first brought to the foster care center-she cried for several days. Her first pictures were so sad and they broke our hearts. I really believe that she was waiting for us-for a home. I am so thankful that we listened to OUR hearts and pursued international adoption.
Meeting her for the first time is so surreal, now. I was so calm-which is very unlike me. She knew us instantly and after about 15 minutes of us talking and playing with her, she looked at her caregivers, gave a big wave and said, "Chow." When we got in the taxi, she took several deep breaths and a few tears were shed and then she fell asleep-from that moment on I was Mommy and Buddy was Babba.
The boys adore her and she loves them so much. They have been such big helpers for us and when we returned they looked like they had grown a foot. Our family is complete-it feels complete and I know how blessed we are.
Have a wonderful 2010!!

The Britt Family of Five

2009-12-18T10:02:00.002-05:00

Helen and her 2 big brothers!

Our sweet angel!

We have returned-this post is going to be quick because sweet baby is napping! Helen is wonderful-she has bonded so well with us all-It was as if she was praying for us as we were praying for her.

Ethiopia was amazing. The people there were so kind-the poverty, however, was devastating-something we will never forget. The orphans living on the street are constantly on our mind.

To the Gladney families waiting-you and your children could not be in better hands. The in country staff was incredible - the foster care centers were so clean and the children were so loved. Travis and Joanna-who we spent the most time with-are top notch...there is no doubt in my mind that they have the best interest of the children at heart.

The Bejoe house was the best-it was like a big family. Helen loved it there and so did we-our driver Tefessa, became a dear friend, and we pray that we will cross paths with him again.

Thank you for the prayers- Hopefully, I can update soon. Merry Christmas to you all.

Baby B....here we come!

2009-12-04T15:04:00.003-05:00

My beautiful shower cake made by our good friend (and cousin) Jennifer. She and our other friend, Nicole had a surprise shower for us!! It was amazing!

Buying crackers!

Will surrounded by the 35 pair of shoes we are taking to Ethiopia!!! We are so excited!

Thanksgiving was delicious!!

Well, the time is here. Buddy leaves for Washington tonight and I leave tomorrow. We are flying separately-crazy, YES!! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE pray for our safe arrival and return!!

I was at the boys' program at school today and thought to myself, one day we will be here watching Helen!! It was surreal-I still can't believe she is my daughter. We cannot wait to meet her and pray for an easy transition. She is a smart little cookie-she definitely has different faces when traveling parents take pictures of her and when the in-country staff does!! She is all smiles when people she is familiar with take her picture and very wary with others. I imagine she is going to throw a few of those looks our way!!

I cannot believe the next time I update our blog, I will have met our daughter, Helen! For those of you waiting, hang in there, it is SO worth it!!!

Love to you all!

Countdown to Ethiopia!

2009-11-20T19:05:00.004-05:00

OUR DAY-first "family photo"as a family of five (notice Helen's picture!)

Baby Girl's pink paradise

Hope Helen likes pink!!

Happy Birthday, Nana!!

Picture from a sweet family who went to pick up their tiny baby boy!! Helen has a photo album we sent her in her hands!! We LOVE YOU SO MUCH, Helen!!

This week has been a blur. We have finished Helen's bedroom and made travel and lodging arrangements. Now, we have to pack...!!! Tomorrow we are going to shop for supplies for Helen's orphanage...thanks to many great friends and family, we are going to be able to take more than we originally thought! Thanks to everyone who donated baby supplies or gift cards or money (thank you notes will come...)

We are so honored to take pictures and/or packages to sweet children in Ethiopia waiting for their families. I have attempted to contact everyone who has left us a message. If for some reason, you have not heard from me, PLEASE try to contact me again!! I don't want to leave anyone out!!

Please pray for our safe travels-Two more weeks until we leave for Ethiopia!!!

Here she is.....Helen Gonder Britt!!!

2009-11-13T13:37:00.002-05:00

Our little messy Marvin-she fits right in with our family!!

Love her beautiful smile!!

Look at those beautiful eyes-my dad says she has his eyes!!

Our referral picture-what a beautiful little lady!! This one makes me smile every day!!!!

It is a miracle-we have a daughter (and a sister!) Meet Helen Gonder Britt-The minute we saw her picture, heard her name and her birthday (April 16th-Will's is April 19th and Wesley's is April 11th-what about that for a sign!!) we knew she was our daughter!! We are so honored to be her parents. Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers-We travel to Ethiopia on December 6th-please pray again for safe travels and an easy transition for Helen.

If anyone would like for us to take a package or take pictures of your little ones, (or big ones) we would be glad to.

Thank you again. This has been an amazing journey...and it is just getting started!!

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you tomorrow...you are only a day away!!

2009-11-12T19:44:00.005-05:00

Telling the boys about our court date!!

Baby B's digs.

Our preacher calls her the chandelier baby-What? Doesn't every girl need a chandelier?

W1's "basketball court"

W1's cool loft bedroom courtesy of my husband and dad!!

Well, by this time tomorrow, we should know whether we passed our court date. Thanks for all of the well wishes and prayers. We are so hopeful that good news is coming our way.

I have been in serious nesting mode. W1's room is almost complete-it is so cool-He loves it. (Thanks Pawpaw and Dad B!!) We are currently finishing Baby B's room-it needs some accessories and curtains but it is a pink paradise!!

Some wonderful friends gave us a surprise baby shower over the weekend and we received a ton of supplies for Baby B's orphanage as well as some really great gear for her!! I will post those pics. as soon as I receive them.

Thank you for joining us on our journey to our daughter. She truly is our dream come true!

COME ON COURT DATE!! UPDATED****

2009-10-22T10:46:00.004-04:00

W1's unfinished room. See the red in the corner? That has been there for a month!

W1's cool loft bed, just waiting to be finished...

Does this look like a little girl's room to you? Hopefully it will soon!

W2 at awards day. He racked up!

W1 and the crew at awards day!

Two Gladney families passed court this week and will be traveling to Ethiopia in November to pick up their children!! Yeah! One family has graciously agreed to take a package to Baby B. The wait for a court date is getting really difficult...I keep thinking that she HAS to be home by Christmas. It will be so hard without her.

Well, we have such a mess, here. We have been working on W1's new room for 2 1/2 months now. I am getting really frustrated waiting on people who never show up (or answer their phone!) My Dad is ready to finish W1's cool loft bed and we have some neat surprises in store...I just want Baby B to have her own room, not just a pile of stuff in a corner.

Maybe good news is right around the corner. Praying for all waiting for court dates and referrals!! Still stalking your blogs and LOVE to see good news!!

WE HAVE JUST RECEIVED A COURT DATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT IS NOVEMBER 13, 2009!!!! PLEASE PRAY THAT IT GOES SMOOTHLY AND WE ARE ABLE TO TRAVEL BEFORE CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!

A Great Success!

2009-10-15T11:37:00.003-04:00

Chillin at the yard sale (notice W2's bookmarks-)

Some of our yard sale contributions!

W2 cleaning up a toy!

Our yard sale for Baby B's orphanage this past Saturday was a great success!! We had 20+ friends and family donate items and we made $800.00 for Baby B's foster care center in Ethiopia. It was so much fun and we had such wonderful responses from strangers who came to the yard sale. Thanks to all who supported us!! We can feel all of the prayers lifting us up!

Courts in Ethiopia reopened on Monday, Oct. 12th. At least one family from our agency has received a court date in a couple of weeks. I keep hoping that the next phone call we get, is Natalie with our court date!!

Have a great week!!

Still here!

2009-10-01T12:05:00.003-04:00

Run W2, RUN!!

My little nascar driver

Dad B trying to pass W1!

W2 and his pal since birth, E. She is a sweetheart.

We are staying so busy at the Britt household. Soccer, scouts, tennis, choir, SCHOOL, remodeling and now a yard sale. W1 has decided to do his school project on the orphans of Ethiopia. In conjunction with his project, he is having a yard sale and all of the proceeds will go towards buying supplies for Baby B's orphanage. We have been cleaning out the house and hopefully friends will come through with some donations for the sale. Every little bit helps. We are so proud of the boys for wanting to donate their time (and toys) for such a wonderful cause.

A wonderful family, sent us 14 pictures of our daughter this past weekend (while I was at the beach scrapbooking her life book). They took a care package to Ethiopia for us and it is so neat to see her holding items that we picked out just for her. Our case worker has also sent several updates this week and we feel so blessed to see how happy she is and how much she is growing. She has a head full of beautiful black curls!!!

On a sad note, the courts in Ethiopia are not reopening on schedule so several families have lost their court dates. Please pray for quick, new court dates for them and that we receive a court date soon as well. Thanks so much for all of your thoughts and prayers-you don't know how much they help!!

Happy 17 months, Baby B!! WE LOVE YOU!!

2009-09-16T20:39:00.003-04:00

SEVEN SHOTS!!! (each)

Dad B's grandmothers 90th birthday celebration.

Our new hobby-the men all caught a catfish at the same time!!

Well, it has been awhile since I have updated our blog. Everything is going well-we are definately staying busy with school, sports, scouts and church. We still have a lot of remodeling to do but hopefully we will be finished by the middle of October. We finally got (some) of our shots today. Oh, it hurt, but Dad B was proud of me-I did not pass out. We have so much else to do-packing alone could take weeks. No, we don't have a court date but we are VERY hopeful we will get an October date and have her home by Thanksgiving. Wishful thinking...maybe...but I just need her in my arms. Everyday she is growing bigger and bigger and we are MISSING IT!! I am just so thankful for our agency and the caregivers in Ethiopia. The children all look so loved and happy.
Today, Baby B. turned 17 months old. I thought about her all day-especially during the shots-and wondered if she knows how loved she is. Everyone is so excited about her-the number of people who ask about her, send notes to us, and of course pray for us is staggering. We have been so blessed. I am saving everything to create a Lifebook for her to have when she gets older. It makes me sad that we don't know what her first 12 months were like, but we are going to have so many memories together!!
Have a wonderful week. It is wonderful to see the referral list on the FBI getting longer!

Tagged

2009-09-07T16:54:00.003-04:00

OK, Tam tagged me, so here goes:

1. I am scared to death to get on an airplane. The last time I flew, I was 18. The next time I fly, I will probably be by myself on a 22+ hour trip to Ethiopia. TERRIFYING!!!!

2. I am addicted to interior decorating magazines. I have so many, and I can't throw them away. The thought of ripping out pages (and saving them in a folder like the organizational magazines say) is unbearable. What if I need to see an article I have thrown away!! Interior design blogs have helped a bit...I don't go to bookstores as much as I used to, sometimes I just surf the web.

3. I had a tubal ligation during my second c-section and regretted it the next day. I knew I made a terrible mistake. I had a tubal reversal in 2007 but in my heart I knew that we would adopt-and here we are!!

4. I am CHEAP!! I won't pay full price for anything. In fact, thanks to all of the magazines I hoard, we have decorated much of our house with furniture and accessories from a warehouse in town that sells a lot of junk. Luckily, my sweet husband can fix anything!

5. I don't like cats. I think they are so sneaky. BUT, my favorite pet is our cat, Winter, aka Mittens, aka Kitty, aka Bootina, aka Cleopatra (we can't decide on a name for her...she is probably one confused cat!) (by the way we have a cat, three dogs, 2 turtles, 3 fish and a frog) She is the best animal I have ever had-She just chills-even though W2 terrorizes her-he throws her over his shoulders like a scarf-I just love that cat-go figure!!!

6. I LOVE sports (especially college football)!!! So many wives complain about their husbands watching too many games on TV but I watch WAY more than my husband does. W1 is a sports fan, as well. He gets up every morning to watch ESPN and he is in a fantasy football league online. I was a cheerleader in high school but would have loved to play football or flag football.

7. OK, last one, I don't know what I want to be when I grow up. I have been a stay-at-home mom for the last 10 years. Before that, I had quite a few jobs, none that I was passionate about!! I am very passionate about adoption so maybe I can explore that field. We will see...I have a wonderful husband who is such a great provider and I have been so blessed to be able to stay at home with our children. Baby B...can't wait for you to get here!!! We love you so much.

TAG to anyone who reads our post!!

Back to School Blues

2009-08-25T15:42:00.002-04:00

Heading to school-Nana and Pawpaw made a sign for their first day!

This is what Kitty-aka Bootina-thinks of the sign-I know she did this to torment Nana who does not like cats!

Well, our boys went back to school today. They had a great day-I just missed them so much. We had a great summer together! They are really excited about their classes and I think they were ready to go back, I was just not ready for them to...

The boys had a great time showing all of the teachers Baby B's pictures at open house. She is already so loved by everyone. You can't help but love her when you see her. One of my friends called and said that every time she walks by Baby B's picture, she thinks about how she is going to rule the roost and have everyone wrapped around her finger-(she already does) W2 and I went shopping for her yesterday and he was so funny. He picked out the cutest outfits and at one point when I was scanning items, he said, "Mom, I'm going back in..." and charged back through the aisles. He is so happy about his little sister and I am so thankful because he is giving up his "baby" status.

Have a great week. A family received a referral yesterday...keep them coming, Gladney, we need some more families on the referral list!!

Somewhere over the Rainbow

2009-08-19T07:56:00.003-04:00

Referral day! We were driving in the car to go celebrate and saw this beautiful rainbow! What a wonderful sign!

A sweet family traveling at the end of the month is going to take this to Baby B. and give her a big hug for us! The boys picked out the outfit and were so excited!! I hope I will get a picture with our daughter wearing it!

Shopping with Nana!

One of the pictures we sent to Baby B. We were laughing thinking that she is going to wonder who that hairy looking boy with the big ears is!! Buddy the dog is a ham!

This is our last week before the boys go back to school and we find out who their teachers are tonight. I cannot believe the summer is over!

We had a great weekend at the lake and yesterday we went back to school shopping with Nana-
They will look spiffy for their first day back.

We keep looking at Baby B's pictures and love her so much! When the boys go to school, I am going to start painting rooms-We are still working on W1's room - thanks to my Dad it is going to be so cool-a real "tween" room.

Have a great week!

From the mouth of my oldest babe

2009-08-12T15:51:00.002-04:00

"Isn't she the cutest baby ever?"

"She is a joy to our family."

"We are so blessed!"

"When I grow old, I am going to adopt 20 babies from Ethiopia!"

"Isn't she the cutest baby ever?"

"She is so cute, I can't stop looking at her!"

"W2, give me those pictures back, I can't stand it!"

"She sleeps all night long-from 8 to 5!"

"Isn't she the cutest baby ever?"

--W1, 10 year old, proud biggest brother of Baby B

(W2 loves her so much, too-his favorite saying is, "She is definately kin to me-look at her throwing that toy!")

Baby B...here we come!

2009-08-11T16:52:00.002-04:00

Seeing our baby girl for the first time!

These two love Baby B!

Yesterday I told Dad B this was our week-and it was!!! We have received a referral for a beautiful, spunky 16 month old little girl who has stolen our hearts already. We are so thrilled to finally see her little face. As W1 used to say, "Her's a beauty!"

The call...today was crazy-racing to get W2 to camp then W1 went to my moms while I worked. I was so hot and kept thinking about how good the pool would feel. When we got to the pool, I was playing ball with W1 thinking about how I could stay in the pool all day-(It has to be the hottest day of the year) when I see Dad B hobbling down the stairs. I thought it was weird but went to meet him. He said that someone wanted to speak with me and to push talk on his cellphone. Well, the 817 area code popped up and I hung up-Dad B said "don't do that" and I started screaming and crying and hugging him. Everyone at the pool thought something was wrong- W1 was running in circles, of course W2 was still swimming oblivious (having the time of his life as he later told me). I finally calmed down and called Natalie. She told us she had a referral and then I asked her how long she would be in the office. ( in my head I was thinking, we could swim for a couple more hours----WHAT!!!! I have been waiting for this day for so long and I wanted to wait-seriously, I think I was in shock)-So, after I pulled myself together, we raced home to see the most beautiful little girl in the world. She looked sad in the first pictures, but then she was so happy-in one picture, she is even throwing a toy- and W2 said, "yeah, she is kin to me!" W1 is so excited and keeps saying, she is the most beautiful baby ever and has called everybody.

Well, that is all for now. Thanks to all who have prayed for us-please continue, we still have a long road to hoe.

Coach Bob McKillop, you are the best!!

2009-08-10T14:14:00.005-04:00

Now, can you loan us the $50,000.00+ per year it is going to cost us to send W1 to Davidson!!
W1 went to Bob McKillop's basketball camp at Davidson College last week and he had a blast. Coach McKillop had each boy write down their dream and W1's was to go to Davidson and play basketball. I know a little about this dream because I wanted to go to Davidson like my dad but my SAT's were not high enough. I was devastated!!! Maybe W1's dream will change, but once Davidson grabs a hold of you, it is tough to get it out of your system. Can we say, SCHOLARSHIP!!

On a parental note, I would highly recommend the camp. Coach McKillop doesn't just put his name on it and let someone else run it-he was there everyday encouraging the boys and coaching them. He is a fantastic coach.

W2 is at a day tennis camp this week and he enjoyed the first day-it is so HOT here so we are inside for the rest of the afternoon.

Dad B is going to have to have knee surgery next week-please say a prayer for him, he is really worried about it-(his dad passed away from a heart attack after knee surgery) Please keep us in your prayers-

Still no news about baby B-maybe this week...
Love to all

W1 with his new hero-Bob McKillop

W2 at tennis camp-maybe this is his sport?!

Can you tell how much these two missed each other-5 mins together after 6 days and they were fighting-boys will be boys-

Rock on!

2009-08-02T13:18:00.003-04:00

The boys went to a ROCK party last night. They had a blast. W2 came home with blue eyeshadow and green hair!

The birthday girl (and W2's love) in the middle.

Well, it is August! Maybe this is OUR month! Congrats to all of the families who passed court this past week. We cannot wait to see you united with your children. Have a great week!

FOUR

2009-07-27T18:41:00.003-04:00

I started to blog right after Christmas and I saw this dress in Jan. when we were at the beach. It was the first time I "allowed" myself to look at girl clothes and dream. W2 was nice enough to shop with me.

That is how many months we have been on the wait list as of today! The average wait time is still four months so hopefully, we will get the referral call soon!!!

We had a great weekend. Two birthday parties and a great day at the lake with friends. I did not have my camera so no recent pics. to post. I can't believe the summer is slipping by so quickly-Have a great week-enjoy every minute of it-I will post as soon as we get the call!

We are running out of July!

2009-07-20T15:20:00.002-04:00

W1's friends who came over for a sleepover-they were so good.

Well, here it is July 20th and the month I thought was our month is quickly slipping by. One week from today, we will have been on the wait list for 4 months (which is the average wait time). I know that God's timing is perfect but I have to keep reminding myself that. Please pray that I will have patience, it is just so hard knowing that our daughter is thousands of miles away.

While waiting, I have been searching the internet for cute girl bows and bloomers and accessories for her room. I can't believe the adorable stuff they have for girls! I found a monogrammed lamp shade on e-bay-can you believe that? As soon as we have a name picked out (we are going to use her given name as her middle name) I am ordering a shade for her PINK room!!

My friend, Jennifer, had her baby yesterday. (We had her baby shower just in time, she wasn't due for another week.) She is precious and Jennifer looks fantastic-baby girl is going to be so loved especially with 3 older brothers.

Have a great week!

You are kidding me!!!

2009-07-15T21:53:00.003-04:00

W1 with his trophies

l
Baby shower

Well, I had a great time tonight at a surprise baby shower for a sweet friend (who also happens to be the co-leader of W1's boy scout den. She is awesome-a few weeks ago-at 36 weeks pregnant, she went camping with the boys for 3 nights. She even canoed!! She is having baby number 4-the first girl so we loaded her up with lots of pink-

While I was at the shower-my sweet W1 was winning TWO TROPHIES after the championship basketball game at the YMCA. His team lost last night but after the game tonight, there was a free throw and a three point shoot-out and W1 won them BOTH!! I am so thrilled for him-Of course, I missed it but sometimes I think I make him nervous anyway. I get so excited during the game and get pretty loud-sort of like my dad. I hate I missed it but have gotten the re-enactment several times and will probably see it many more times in the future. Well, no news this week-Hopefully, soon!

Great day at the pool

2009-07-10T20:24:00.004-04:00

My little chicken!!

Hi all. No news this week. We had a great one, though. We played at the pool, played a version of tennis in our driveway and worked on W1's new room-cleaning out and getting ready for construction. I have finally started the book There is no Me without You-really great-a lot of history about Ethiopia, her orphans and the AIDS epidemic-The book centers around Waizerro Haregewoin Teferra who passed away recently-she was an amazing woman who fostered hundreds of children many who were HIV positive. If you would like to read it and live nearby, let me know-you can borrow my copy!

I am still waiting for BAM to call me to pick up From Ashes to Africa-

Well, W2 has decided that when we do receive the call, to let those around me know, I have to crow like a chicken-(or is it CAW?)-at any rate, I am up for anything as long as I get the call SOON! So, hopefully I will be saying BCAW, BCAW, BCAW in the immediate future! (and I am most sure it will be while I am in Wal-Mart with a cart full of groceries!!!)
Have a great weekend.

July 4th festivities

2009-07-06T21:09:00.003-04:00

The boys before jet-skiing-no, they don't ride together-just a cute photo op!

Nana and I hanging out on our deck-my hair is looking lovely from a day on the lake!!

My dad right before he flipped the sail fish over-it was so funny! Every time anyone flipped over the board he cracked up so much! W1 said it was the most fun he has ever had at the lake!

My little brother zooming away!

Sparklers! I don't like them or fireworks but I tolerate them as much as I can!

Well, another Fourth of July has come and gone for us at the lake. It is hard to believe that we have been there for 5 summers. This was the first 4th of July where it was just us and although we missed our family, it was a very enjoyable weekend. My parents and brother came down, today and my dad brought his sail board (I think it is called a sail fish). He bought it from Popular Mechanics in 1968 and he used to go sailing on Lake Norman near his hometown. The boys loved riding it and my dad laughed all day.

W1 got his first BB gun this weekend. He shot one for the first time at camp last week and loved it so Dad B bought him one-he is a pretty good shot-so is his mom-I shot one for the first time ever and did pretty well, if I do say so myself.

Well, maybe there will be some more referrals this week-Either way, I have decided to finally start on W1's new room-more pics. this week.

Love to all.

Please let July be our MONTH!!!

2009-06-30T17:15:00.004-04:00

"Thy God of Heaven will not fail to heal you"
A rising 4th grader at Bible School made this bag for our service project. He worked on it the entire time he was in crafts while everyone else was decorating their picture frames-(his frame was plain). I was (and still am) amazed by him.

W1's digs at his first camp out!

W1 and his scout den

W2 and Dad B spent some manly time together four wheeling!(and making balloon animals-that is manly, right?)

W2 and his good bud at the pool.

Well tomorrow begins the month I have always thought would be OUR month for THE CALL! Please, let it be so. I can't wait to see her sweet little cheeks.

W1 is at scout camp-I miss him so much-We are picking him up tomorrow evening after dinner-I had to take his goggles yesterday and you should have seen his tent-clothes everywhere-I just zipped the tent back up and left-I have to let him grow up-of course, W2 had a fit..."He did not listen to a thing you said, Mama-you told him to put his dirty clothes in a bag, not on the ground!!! My yearbook has been stepped all over-W1 owes me $15.00 for it......."(on and on and on).

W2 has enjoyed being alone this week-we went shopping yesterday, to the pool today and movies after dinner. He is a bird-never a dull moment with him.

Well, have a great 4th of July!!

Pretty soon, I am going to get an ulcer!

2009-06-23T20:42:00.003-04:00

After W1's first game! W2, Dad B and I had to work the scoreboard-AHHH!

W1 had a BEAUTIFUL lay-up-of course, I did not get that pic.!

Bible school crafts-my job and I love it!

W1 and his good buddy-they look just alike from behind-

Well, between waiting for "the call", W1's first scout camp out, W1's basketball games (highly competitive), and praying that my brother gets a job he interviewed for last week, I am on the verge of an ulcer-My stomach has been in knots all week!!!

Our adoption agency is really cranking out the referrals this month-Three families behind us on the unofficial wait list have now received referrals and I keep thinking we are next...But, I have always thought July was our month which is a good and bad thing. Good, because it is just around the corner, bad because Ethiopian courts close from Aug. to sometime in Oct. for the rainy season. So, if we get our referral in July most likely we won't pass court until after they reopen...Well, I guess we will have plenty of time to get her room ready if that is the case. It is going to be so cute!!! I love pink~

Well, I will post the MINUTE we get the word...please pray for us.

Let Summer Begin!!

2009-06-15T17:16:00.003-04:00

We took the boys shopping for doing so well in school this year- W1 made all A's and W2 made all S's and did not have to turn his card once-(he is very proud of that-it means he did not get in trouble at school.) W1 decided to buy his very first Abercrombie t-shirt (oh no!) and we bought him a pair of basketball shoes because he is playing at the YMCA this summer.

W2 with 2 of his pals at school. He had the best class.

W2 with his sweet teacher. They were a perfect match-they both love to boogie!
I hope Baby B has her one day.

W1 with his good bud outside at their year end celebration.

Nana showing all of the kids how to hula hoop. So this is who W2 learned to boogie from!

The boys got out of school last Wed. and we have been pretty busy- We have been to the pool a few times, the lake and W1 started golf camp today. W2, of course, would rather stay home than do anything else-well, I take that back, one day he, Dad B and Buddy the dog will probably pack up and move to the lake-
A family who was behind us (only by a week, though) on the unofficial waiting list received a referral for a 15 month old boy last week. We are so happy for them and excited to see some movement on our end of the list. There are probably 25 families in front of us but we are still the first family who wants a girl over 12 months old-PRAYING that we hear something soon!! We still have a ton to do to get ready for her but every time the phone rings, my stomach drops. Have a great week!

2009-06-08T18:55:00.002-04:00

More lake fun!

Happy B-day Dad B!

W1 and his sweet teacher-we will miss her so much next year!

W1 and his peeps.

W1 had his awards day today. He received 2 awards and we are so proud of him! He has had a fantastic year this year and I cannot believe that my baby will be in the 4th grade next year.
W2 has really enjoyed the 1st grade-his party is on Wed. and I will have some pics. of him then.

On the adoption front, when we were driving home from the pool this afternoon, I called the house to check our messages. I thought someone called from the same area code as Gladney-(our adoption agency) and I got so excited!!! I know it is wishful thinking - we probably have several months to go but I just can't wait for our referral.

Mom and I hit the jackpot last week when we were shopping for the baby's room. I love TJ Maxx-I have searched high and low for bedding and there it was- just the colors I wanted: pink and green. We found some accessories and a beautiful chandelier on clearance at Lowes. (I am a bargain shopper!!) I hope we will move W1, soon-I get to paint NC State red walls again-

Well, have a great week!!

These are for you, Meme!!

2009-05-28T11:35:00.004-04:00

My parents house that has been transformed by my dad-he built the portico, garage and painted it all by himself.

I helped paint the white fence-and in the process found 14 ticks on my socks and shoes-YUCK!

Meme-we enjoyed spending time with you this weekend-it was so good to see you and Melba! Love you!

Weekend at the Lake

2009-05-26T20:01:00.003-04:00

W1 is freezing-the "fish" W2 did not mind the cold water a bit!

Well, soccer is over so it is now Dad B's favorite time of the year-weekends at the lake! For once, I was so worn out I actually slept-(with both W1 and W2-all the while wondering how Baby Girl B will fit in the bed with us). We spent much of the weekend on the jet skis and the boys loved it-I am no spring chicken anymore, so I was a little sore. On Sunday, Dad B's family, my aunt Meme and our friends came by for a cookout-It only rained a little that day-on Monday, we got caught in a hail storm while on the pontoon-luckily, we were able to pull over at a friends' pier to wait for the storm to pass.

I thought about our baby girl a lot while we were at the lake-wondering how she would like the water and the boats and that it will be a challenge with a little one around the water. Our friends have a son who just turned one and he is such a sweetie and did so well being on the boat-he did not even fuss about wearing a life jacket!

Several families did not pass court last week but many have new court dates the first of June. Please pray that they will soon be together!

Have a great week!

Gearing up for SUMMER!!!

2009-05-18T19:40:00.002-04:00

W1 and his soccer coach-

W2 with Coach Dave

W2 and his cousin in our new sun room-I am still trying to decorate it.

Mother's Day at our house-brunch was a great idea and a new tradition-so much easier than grilling out!! See the oil portraits of the boys in the background? I cannot wait to have our daughter's made!!!!

Well, soccer is over for the season. The boys did very well and learned a lot. Dad B is glad to finally be able to go to the lake on the weekends. After Mother's Day brunch at our house, we made a mad dash to the lake for 4 hours-It was so nice and I cannot believe this is our fifth summer at the lake! Dad B is so relaxed on the water and it is nice to be together as a family-now if I could just learn to sleep there! I have a terrible time and spend most nights tossing and turning.

This week, a family who made the wait list 1 1/2 months before us received a referral for a 17 month old boy. I am so excited for them and started to think maybe we would get a call, soon-no one ahead of us on the unofficial FBI list (LOVE THE LIST) requested a daughter over 15 months old. (we requested a girl 0-18 months) I got really excited and then started to panic because we have nothing ready! W1 is moving to the playroom-(believe me, he is coming out great because the Wii and TV are right next door) and we have to put either a sky light or dormer in. No call, yet and for some reason I think July is our month-but don't get me wrong, the sooner the better!!

Well, W1 is taking EOG's this week (end of grade tests). I know he will do great but he is a little nervous-I will be glad when they are over!
Have a great week-

We survived April!!!

2009-05-08T19:26:00.004-04:00

W2's birthday bash!

W2 with his sweet friend.

W1's shin dig.

Red velvet cake courtesy of Nana.

W1's gifts-don't forget his new puppy!

The birthday month is over-after many celebrations! The boys had a great time turning 10 and 8 and will be writing thank you notes for the entire month of May!! I have already decided that it is destiny that our daughter will be an April baby, as well.

Dad B also completed the sun room and deck additions. They look so great and make the back yard seem so much bigger. Now, it is time to move...ha-ha. Those of you who know us, know that we like to move!!

I have started looking for pink bedding-our next big project is to fix up the baby's room and move W1 to his new room-he is so sweet to agree to switch rooms.

We went to view the World Vision Experience-step into Africa exhibit today. It was both heartbreaking and uplifting. I kept thinking of our daughter in Ethiopia and how her life could very well be affected by AIDS. Walking through the exhibit it was impossible to not feel so lucky that we have so much-way more than just the basics-and every day we take things for granted. Driving across town, picking up our children from school, having food in our cabinets, a home...

Well, Happy Mother's Day to everyone-hopefully, next year at this time I will have a daughter who calls me, "Mommy!"

Easter Fun

2009-04-16T07:55:00.003-04:00

Finding their Easter baskets. The Easter bunny sent them on a scavenger hunt!

My handsome fellas before church.

Pawpaw and his "granddaughter"-she is too cute.

Nana and the boys with their Easter gifts!

W1 and W2 with their cousins.

Well, after a very busy weekend, we have taken it easy this week. We were going to go to the lake today but W2 is not feeling well so we are going to stay home.

On the adoption front, CIS sent a revised copy of our I-171H last week so we are now back to our original age preference of 0-18 months. We are so excited to be closer to seeing our little girl! Keep up the referrals, Gladney!!

W2's Birthday Extravaganza

2009-04-13T10:52:00.002-04:00

Opening birthday gifts.

W2 wanted his friends C and E to come over and play.

Dyeing eggs with Mawmaw and Joppy.

My college roommate and her cute little family came by for a visit.

Birthday dinner-he wanted to keep the hat!

What an exciting weekend! W2's birthday was a lot of fun. He had his two buddies come by to play, then dyed Easter eggs at Mawmaw's, then my college roommate and her family came by-we have not seen each other in 10 years when W1 was a baby. She looks just the same and has two sweet little boys-Her oldest loves Thomas the train-just like W1 used to-

W2 is our wild child-but such a sweetie. He is the one who was not sure about a baby sister but now he talks about "when the baby comes..." and wanted me to announce our adoption in church. Yesterday, at Mawmaw's house, he played with his 2 year old cousin more than anyone. His sister is going to adore him!! He is such a good little student and never wants to be in trouble at school. At home, we call him "the boss" because he rules the roost. I love you, W2! Happy 8th Birthday!

How did this happen?

2009-04-10T10:10:00.002-04:00

Well, as you can see, we have a new addition and it is not a baby girl from Ethiopia-it is a baby girl beagle from Randolph County- No name, yet-trying out a few. She is a birthday present for W1 and he is thrilled-Everyone was up at 6:30 AM today...and this is the first day of spring break!!! She is a sweetie and I think I am still in shock. Dad B and I were going to LOOK at her but somehow the boys went with us and you know the rest...
Congrats to a fellow Gladney mom who received her referral yesterday-Gladney-KEEP THEM COMING!!

Easter parties and W2's 8th Birthday

2009-04-09T20:14:00.002-04:00

W2 tearing into his pokemon cards Nana and Pawpaw gave him. He said, "this was the best early birthday EVER!"

Two peas in a pod and the best cake maker ever-always homemade!

W2 looking for Easter eggs at Church.

Our handsome boys before singing at church.

The famous cake-with four different colors of homemade icing-red, yellow, green and pink!

It has been a good week at our house. W2 and W1 have partied down with birthday and Easter parties. Today was the last day of school for 10 days-they are so excited and I hope they will sleep in tomorrow-ha! ha!

Have a Happy Easter!

Gladney Dinner

2009-04-04T17:19:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. Our first week on the waiting list has been great! Last night we went to eat dinner with the NC Gladney Family Association and it was so nice. We were able to meet other parents who have either adopted through Gladney or are in the process. I think there were five adopting from Ethiopia-it was amazing and we had such a good time, we did not want to leave. It was so comforting to be able to talk to people who are going through the same things we are-excitement, anxiousness, nervousness. It was also so interesting to hear the "questions" they were getting-some of the very ones we have encountered. I hope we have made some life long friends and our children will know each other for many years. It is amazing how this experience has brought us to people and places we would have never known. I am trying to soak it all in and enjoy every minute even though I cannot wait for our referral. Our agency seems to really be cranking out the referrals lately and I hope it continues!!

We had a great day today. The boys had soccer games and W1 got a goal-W2 is a defender and stopped the other team from scoring a goal! Then we went to see "Race to Witch Mountain"-it was OK-now onto the Final Four games.

Have a great week-hopefully, next week I will find out if our CIS I171H form can be fixed to our original age bracket!

WAITLIST, WAITLIST, WAITLIST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-30T18:23:00.002-04:00

There is a baby girl in Ethiopia who is going to have these sweet boys as her brothers!!

You heard it right!! We are officially on the waitlist as of March 27th! We are thrilled beyond belief. Now, we just have to see if we can correct our age preference-(Didn't you know by now, that there is always something....) We wanted a girl up to 18 months old but CIS approved us for a girl up to 12 months old. So, we will see. If it is an ordeal, we are going to leave it-but if not, we would like to go back to our original age bracket. But, nevertheless, we are on the WAITLIST!! Yahoo!!

Sick of being sick!!

2009-03-29T10:03:00.003-04:00

W2 getting ready to play.

Mom and I had on the same outfit-we did not notice it but W2 did!

W1 and baby B-he is so cute!

Well, the stomach bug/flu has invaded the Britt house. W2 has been sick twice and missed 5 days of school, W1 is sick, now, and I had it last week for 5 days. It was awful!! Hopefully, we will all be well next week as we are gearing up for the BIRTHDAY MONTH!!
The boys had their first soccer games last week and they did a great job.
On the adoption front, our dossier is making its way to Washington DC this week and then on to Ethiopia-Hopefully, we will be on the wait list the first of April-only two months after my prediction-ha!! Well, I know that it will be the perfect timing for us when we see our little girls face for the first time!
Have a great week.

GUESS WHAT WE HAVE!!!!!

2009-03-18T17:18:00.004-04:00

W1 and W2 with Buddy and our I-171H

Praise the Lord-we finally have our I-171H! For those of you who don't know, the US Dept. of Homeland Security "has determined that we are able to properly care for an orphan". This has been over six months in the making and I can't believe this day is here! Now, we wait some more...Thanks for all of the prayers-keep praying, we still have a long way to go!
Enjoy the sunshine!

You win some, you lose some

2009-03-17T19:41:00.002-04:00

W2 with his 1st place pinewood derby car for most unusual.

W1 with his awesome pinewood derby car!

Well, after our "party weekend" W2 had the stomach bug that has been going around. He feels much better now after Pawpaw and Nana brought him some pancakes from the annual Pancake Supper! He won 1st place at his boy scout pack's pinewood derby for the most unusual car last night. In case you can't tell, his car is a hammerhead shark. He was so excited and W1 could not have been more excited that his brother won a medal even though he did not.

On the adoption front, we are still waiting to be put on the wait list. It has been such a long process and yesterday was a tough day for me. One of my friends gave me some very encouraging words and I am trying to stay positive because I know that our child is waiting for us just like we are longing for her.

Have a great week!

Let's Party!

2009-03-14T19:01:00.002-04:00

Well, our adoption is back on track-I think. Our revised home study was sent to CIS last week-hopefully we will hear something soon.....The boys are doing great-Dad B went to West Virginia for five days last week and they were so good! I am still recovering but I am so proud of how sweet they were.
Last night we went to a birthday party at a bounce house. The children all had a great time and the birthday girl was so precious. She read every single card and was so excited about all of her gifts. Today we went to cousin T's party at an arcade. W1 and W2 had a blast. I hope everyone gets in bed early tonight-I am pooped.
Well, hopefully, there will be good news next week. Take care!

Snow fun 09

2009-03-06T19:35:00.002-05:00

The big hill they had fun playing on!

On your mark, get set, GO!!

Fresh snow.

Hanging with their peeps!

Well, this post is a little late seeing how it is now 70 degrees. Just 4 days ago, the boys were having fun in the snow. We had a great Monday hanging out with friends and sledding. We have not seen this much snow in 4 or 5 years. Thanks to all for the great snow day!!

This week was busy-which is a good thing-it kept my mind off of our adoption. We have had no movement at all since a month ago. I am starting to wonder if this will ever happen-if we will ever travel to Ethiopia to pick up our little girl. I am trying to have faith but it is tough.

We started soccer this week-I am glad we will continue to stay busy on Saturdays. W2 had practice tonight and he did great-he loves defense-his brother is all about scoring!

Have a great weekend-it is going to be beautiful here-in the 70's and 80's! Love it-come on SPRING!

Hanging in there

2009-03-01T17:41:00.003-05:00

W2's business that has taken over my den!

W2s' creations

The proud owner!

Radio statio with my tiger den! They were fascinated by the record player!! That makes me feel old!

Hanging out with their cousin

We have had a rainy, lazy weekend. Yesterday was W2's last basketball game and W1 went to see Davidson play with my dad and brother. Stephen Curry is now the all time leading scorer at Davidson. W1 had a blast and is looking forward to basketball camp there this summer. He decided this past summer that if he had another brother we should name him either Stephen or Lebron. For a girl, Lebrona...he cracks me up!

W2 is now in business! For those of you he knows, be prepared, he is selling bookmarks. He bought a laminator last week and has been working constantly on bookmarks. He is so cute and so serious about his business-he was up this morning at 8:00 and has recruited Dad B and I to help. He is so artistic and creative while W1 is athletic-it is funny how they are so different-I can't wait to see what kind of personality Baby B has.

Well, we are waiting for the snow but I have my doubts. Be safe!

Say What?! Part TWO

2009-02-26T16:25:00.001-05:00

Well, as expected at this point, we have yet another delay with our adoption. As of Feb. 6th, home studies in NC have to be written in a certain way and ours has to be revised... I am honestly afraid to ask, "WHAT ELSE!!!" Because I am sure there will be something else. Negativity has set in, folks.

SAY WHAT?!!??

2009-02-23T19:01:00.003-05:00

Well, we received a phone call from our adoption agency today saying that as of last week (when our home study made its way to CIS) a new form is needed before CIS will issue the last piece of paper we need before we are on the wait list. I am trying so hard not to be discouraged but it is so hard, especially since it has taken us so long to be approved and we worked so diligently on our paperwork. I just knew that we would be on the wait list this week...

We had a good weekend. The boys played basketball again (this weekend is the last game) and W1's game was so intense-he did great and they won at the last second. W2 made another basket and it was beautiful!! Soccer practice started today-looking forward to many Saturdays outside watching the boys play!

On Sunday, we went to cousin T's house for his birthday party. It was alot of fun.

Today, Nana and I went shopping for spring clothes for the boys-I had to sneak a peek at the girls' clothes and can't wait to start buying some pink outfits!

Please pray that this new bump in the road passes quickly...I don't know how much more I can take! Have a good week.

Hoping to hear from CIS soon!

2009-02-17T19:20:00.002-05:00

W2 playing his new Nintendo game-

Our 2 pups trying to get in the house-they can't wait for summer time at the lake when they can lounge in our lake house.

W1 playing Wii. We bought Wii fit and it is tough! I jogged for 3 minutes and could hardly catch my breath...maybe it is time to exercise?!

Our new sunroom-in progress-it is so much bigger than I thought it would be-I can't wait to have it finished! It will be the perfect place to keep our daughters' toys that are downstairs-Who am I kidding-they will be everywhere!

Hi everyone! We had a conference call with our case worker yesterday and our home study has been sent to CIS and KBS Dossiers. Now, we are waiting on one more piece of paper and we are on the wait list! It is going to take longer to receive a referral than we originally thought but we are glad that all of the work on our end is finished. Now we just wait....

We had a great weekend. The boys spent the night with Nana on Friday night so Dad B and I could go out for dinner-we turned in early-we are so tired by Friday! The boys had games on Saturday and then we went bowling with their cousins-I forgot to take pictures!! They all had a blast! W1 lost a bet to his older cousin and has to wear a Tarheel shirt the next time they are together-Yuck! We don't own anything light blue!

Have a great week!

Gladney Approved-Home study on its way to CIS!

2009-02-11T17:12:00.002-05:00

Hallelujah!! We are Gladney approved and our home study is on its way to CIS!! Hopefully, we will be on the wait list soon-maybe by the end of the month! One step closer to our princess.

We went skiing this weekend with the boys' scout pack. We had a great time and I actually remembered how to ski-it has been 15 years! The boys did great-W1 loved it-W2 liked it-but spent most of his time helping up this little girl who kept falling down-That is my little Romeo!

W1 had some tests run today because of headaches. Thankfully, his bloodwork looks good-now we are waiting to see if it is mono.

Hope to have some more good news, soon!

A great night

2009-02-06T14:54:00.002-05:00

W1's hero!!

Last night, we went to watch W1's favorite basketball team, the Davidson Wildcats. We had a great time at the game-thanks Pawpaw-and were very close to W1's hero, Stephen Curry- He was so excited and W2 enjoyed the game, too, even though he said, "I should have brought my DS." He had some popcorn and was happy. Well, no news on the adoption front-maybe next week. Have a great weekend.

We are still here!

2009-02-05T10:34:00.003-05:00

W2 said he was going to tell his teacher it was a bad hair day-it took forever to get his hair to calm down!

Watching the snow!

W1 after he became a bear scout!

Our annual Valentine picture.

Happy Birthday B!

Well, I was hoping to have a post titled, "We are on the wait list!" but that is not the case. We are still having to do revisions to our dossier but I hope our home study will be sent to CIS soon.

We had a "snow" day yesterday even though there was not enough snow to sled or play in. It was so cold so we stayed in the house most of the day. Dad B is working on our new sunroom and mudroom! I am so excited about the mudroom...he was talking about putting two lockers in there for the boys and I quickly reminded him we would need THREE!! Sometimes it is still so hard to believe that we will be a family of five!! Our washer is kaput so we bought a new front loading washer and dryer yesterday. Who knew that one day I would be excited about a mudroom and new washer and dryer!!

We had our boy scout pack meeting on Monday night and W1 advanced-he is now a bear scout. It was such a neat meeting. W2 is doing a great job in scouts and I hope our little den will advance to tiger scouts in April.

It was my brother B's birthday celebration this past weekend. W2 said he was going to torture his uncle until he got a new girlfriend! I can't believe B is 24. I remember like yesterday when he was my boys' age.

Oh, on Sunday W2 - my little partner in crime- wanted me to announce to the congregation that we were adopting. Everyone was so excited and I was surprised at the number of people who did not know.

Well, hopefully, I will have a wonderful update next week!

Winter Break at the Beach!

2009-01-22T09:07:00.005-05:00

What a great view!

W1 playing basketball!

W2 with his sweet pal!

My little Buddy!

We had a great long weekend at the beach. We stayed in a very nice oceanfront hotel with an indoor water park with two other families. The boys loved the water park and we spent the majority of the time hanging out there. W1 loved the basketball goal and W2 enjoyed the lazy river. It was so relaxing and it was hard to get up for school this morning.

We heard from our social worker yesterday who is making a few revisions on our home study. Hopefully, it will be sent to CIS soon! Say a prayer for us!

Still waiting to be on the waiting list!!

2009-01-17T08:10:00.003-05:00

Dad B with our cousins' cute dog!!

W1 and W2 playing Wii with their sweet cousin!

These two have the best time together!

W2 coming out of the smoke house!

My tiger den!

Well, no real news on the adoption front. Our home study revisions were sent to our social worker and then hopefully it will be sent SOON to CIS for approval and then we will be on the wait list!!

I met with the mom and her two adopted sons from Ethiopia yesterday. They were so precious! She was so sweet to answer all of my questions.

Earlier this week my tiger den went to the fire station. The boys were a hoot-I doubt the firemen will ever forget us. W2 told them that our cat knew kung fu!! We went out to the smokehouse to see what it would be like in a real fire. The boys went in the house and crawled through it and then had to go out the window. Well, I thought I was supposed to do the same but I think they were afraid I would break the window!! "Ma'am, you can use the door if you like!" Ha!

Well, have a great weekend! Hopefully, we will have some movement on our adoption in the next few weeks.

An Exciting Week

2009-01-11T08:07:00.005-05:00

Mawmaw and Joppy

Dad B's sister at her birthday party.

W1 and his cousins.

W1 getting ready to play!

W2 cracking me up!

This past Tuesday we had quite a scare. The wind was blowing so hard and at 6:30 in the morning we heard a huge boom and a tree in our backyard destroyed our covered porch and part of our roof. Luckily, it did not come through the house and no one was hurt!

W1 was out of school two times this past week. We have another doctors appointment this week to see if he is a carrier for strep and to talk about having his tonsils removed.

W1 and W2 had their first basketball games on Saturday. They did great. W2 had a good time-it was his first basketball game, ever. W1 made 8 points and is really dribbling the ball well.

Have a great weekend!

2009 and still sick!!

2009-01-06T16:39:00.003-05:00

Learning how to shoot marbles at our pack meeting.

My little monkey.

W1 always has a football!

Hullabulu-or something like that.

We love Wii!

Hi everyone! W1 and I are still sick-We are both on an antibiotic and I had to pick him up from school today. He slept for almost 2 hours before lunch which is unheard of!! I think on top of the strep he has a sinus infection! W2 and Dad B are still doing great-knock on wood.

We heard from our social worker today who has turned in our home study and hopefully there won't be too many revisions! I have enjoyed "stalking" other blogs to see new referrals and can't believe how far we have come in the adoption process. Now, the waiting begins...

On an exciting note, a family in our little town who has adopted two boys from Ethiopia contacted us yesterday. I hope next week when I am better, we can meet for lunch. I am thrilled to have this new contact!

Hope everyone out there stays well!

Good times and a sick boy!

2008-12-31T10:45:00.002-05:00

W2's lady love.
W1 had a sleep over last night and the boys had a great time until W1 woke up this morning with a sore throat. Strep again-this makes 3 times in the last 3 months. He will probably have to have his tonsils removed in 2009. Luckily, the doctor took pity on him and gave him medicine, not a shot...New Year's Eve plans have been canceled and we will miss our friends that we always celebrate with! Hope everyone has a blessed 2009!

Last Home Study

2008-12-29T10:55:00.002-05:00

We have just had our last home study! Hooray! The boys did great-they were very sweet and gave her a tour of our house. She hopes to have everything written up this week and then it could be a month before it is finalized for our agency-due to changes that might need to be made on wording since it has to be translated. We are so excited...one step closer to our daughter!

Yesterday, we spent a great day at my aunt and uncles house. The boys had so much fun playing with their cousins and shooting rockets! It was a great way to end the Christmas festivities. Two of my cousins have babies and they are so sweet. Hopefully, next year there will be one more!!

Happy New Year! Tomorrow, W1 has 2 maybe 3 friends coming over for a sleepover-he is so excited! Hopefully, the house will still be standing-ha!

The day after!

2008-12-26T16:27:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas. We had a great time and still have much to try on and put away!! The boys had so much fun opening their gifts and W2 kept saying, "Do I have any more?" We have to put away as much as we can ASAP because our second home study is on Monday-YEAH!! Hopefully, all of the decorations will be up and the house will be back to "normal." Say a prayer for us.
We had a great time today at my aunts house. Dad B and W1 did not go because W1 is feeling under the weather-he has a bad cough. We missed them but enjoyed catching up with our extended family.
Have a great weekend!

More Christmas pictures

2008-12-25T11:24:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T11:07:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone is having a very Merry Christmas! We have had a great few days- Last night we went to church for an early service and then to Mawmaw and Joppy's house for dinner and presents. We had a wonderful time with family-Dad B's grandmother came over, too, and really enjoyed the sweets! Nana, Pawpaw and my Brother B came over this morning early for Santa and breakfast. Everything was delicious and we all love our gifts. Dad B got me a disposal! YEAH!! We don't have city water and sewer at our new house but he found a new disposal that works with cartridges-who would have thought someone could get so excited about a disposal! I got my husband a car radio for his Jeep and the boys got lots of new gadgets!! Thanks for all of the gifts!! Merry Christmas! Now to go clean up!

2008-12-23T08:30:00.006-05:00

We had our first "home study" last Friday and it went well. We met at our social workers house and hopefully we will have our last visit at our home before New Year's. We are getting so excited to be nearing the end of the paper chase process! We can't wait to be on the wait list!!!
The boys are very excited about Christmas-W1 wants a cell phone-ha! Not for many more years! W2 wants 3 cats-again, ha! He terrorizes Kitty enough. W2 has already separated the gifts into piles and has counted them....he is my little helper! W1 is all about sports-he is having a blast watching ESPN-it is just too cold to go out and shoot basketball.
Hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Hopefully when my brother comes home I can post some pictures-Dad B and I are not very computer savvy!

Here we go!

2008-12-12T15:18:00.006-05:00

Hi everyone. We are so excited to be posting for the first time. We are the Britt family and we are in the "paper chase" process of adopting a baby girl (up to 18 months old) from Ethiopia. We officially began our journey on Sept. 11, 2008. We have 2 boys, W1 who is 9 and W2 who is 7. They are very excited about having a baby sister and will be very protective, I am sure! Join us as we journey to the land of Ethiopia to bring home our sweet baby girl!