We'll continue to consider them opportunities...(Todd)

"Setback", "Delay", "Inconvenience", "Discouragement", "Disappointment"...we could call it that, but we will call today an opportunity. Yes, you've figured it out already. Jenny did receive that call from the lawyer that she was waiting for, but it was not the news we sought. It seems the registrar was not at work again today. Pray with us that the registrar's "car" will run tomorrow so that he/she may get to work and give the ruling that the Judge has likely already given.

It's a bit frustrating, but God is helping us to keep our minds and hearts on the things that really matter. 20 years from now, it won't have mattered if we had to wait two extra weeks for that ruling. However, right now, it can seem like an eternity.

I'm not by nature a high-strung individual, but these last couple weeks have me feeling like I'm on a quadruple espresso shot I.V. dripline. I awoke this morning to my heart sounding like a hyper squirrel on a treadmill, anxious for news from the court.

I know many of you whom have prayed so intently for this ruling are anxious for news, as well. Thank you, and pray with us that God will help us rest in Him. That peace would still characterize our days, and that every evil thought toward those who "seem" responsible for delays would be dispelled immediately that our attitudes would resonate Christ. The world already knows what it looks like when folks are self-absorbed, impatient, prideful, greedy, unthankful, and full of slander, but, as Christ-followers, we are not of that world. God's Spirit lives in us that we would imitate Christ, no matter how great the temptation to have bitterness in our hearts.

"For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every evil practice.'
"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness." (James 3:16-18)

...so, knowing that God does all things with purpose, we will consider this an opportunity for kingdom work and His display of His more perfect glory.

Action Packed

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Katie is doing terrific! She has energy and spunk! She is smiling and is even saying a few words. She was very active this morning while playing with all the toys. She looks great! Thank you Jesus!
I have been having a great time. I am so thankful for Rachel and Arielle, they have truly been an incredible blessing to me. Arielle's parents and sister were visiting for the last couple weeks, and we joked that Rachel and I were their 4th and 5th daughters. They were so kind and generous, they encouraged me with hugs, prayed for me, and were great company over many dinners. I believe this is another way God has ministered to me...it is tough being in Africa alone, but I have not felt alone because I have been surrounded with new friends who I just love!
Yesterday, we had to take Arielle's family to the airport, so we made a fun day trip out of it. We went to Kampala Pentecostal Church (KPC), see www.kpcministries.org, you can also YouTube this church! It was a very powerful church service. The singing was incredible. Just watching Ugandans praise the Lord through song causes many emotions to stir within me. Seeing their hands lifted high, jumping up and down, shouting with excitement, swaying back and forth and dancing...they are singing their hearts out to the Lord. It is beautiful. KPC has started an orphanage called Watoto Babies Home, see www.watoto.com This place is amazing! We got to tour this facility and love on the children here. None of these children can be adopted, but they are in a great place. It would be wonderful if every orphanage in the world could look like this one.
One our way home, the main road to Jinja became closed (we don't know why). So we took a detour on a tiny, one lane, extremely bumpy, road at 10:30pm, where traffic is still trying to go two ways. A huge truck carry a lot of cargo, was going the opposite way and caused everyone to come to a standstill. Everyone turned off their engines and got out of their cars, trying to direct traffic in the dark. Imagine 20 Ugandans all shouting at the same time, some vans going in reverse barely skimming the side of our van, while we are sitting in a stuffy van trying to figure out what is going on. As Rachel sticks her head out of the van to have a say, we see a man peeing right in front of us. That is when we had one of the moments..."we really are in Africa!" As I write this, I realize there is no way of accurately portraying the chaos last night! We finally had to just laugh, and were thankful when we arrived at 11:45pm. We got home just in time for a huge thunderstorm!
As I write this, I just got a message that, Nicolas, our lawyer is waiting at the courthouse right now. He will call as soon as he receives any news! I will keep you posted.

Pray for Katie

Katie is not doing well again. She developed a bad cough this morning and has a fever. She is weak and irritable. We are having a difficult time getting her to take liquids and she has already vomited twice. Please pray for her.
I held her for 1 1/2 hours today while she slept on my chest, but she was really restless. I feel so helpless for her. It seems that her health status changes so quickly from day to day, even hour to hour. I long to see her healthy and well.
Thank you for your prayers.

A peek inside African living

This is an African bathroom, called a pit latrine. It is located outside the house and there is no light inside. You have to squat over a hole in the ground. Little Sarah is NOT going to the bathroom in the picture. She is just posing!

This is at Mama Susan's house. This is her sink and her "pantry" area. There is no refrigerator. There is no hot water, but she is blessed to have running water--A trickle out of a makeshift faucet.

Mama Susan's daughter, Sarah, and her house girl, named "Kevin Cinderella" are doing my hair. They kept laughing and couldn't believe that my hair was so "slippery."


We had fun making funny faces for the camera. They would laugh hysterically when they would see their picture on the digital camera. We had to take a funny picture again, and again, and again...


They taught me how to make beads out of magazine paper. Then Sarah, who is five years old, showed me how she makes the necklaces. Mama Susan said it is important for her to learn how to contribute to the family's income.


This is Mama Susan's kitchen. Kitchens are always outside. She has two little stoves as you can see in the picture. She cooked me a feast using this kitchen. It took her 2 1/2 hours and the meal consisted of chicken (which is a luxury item cooked only when a visitor comes), rice, potatoes, avocado, and cabbage. She also made fresh squeezed passion juice and bought me my own 1 liter of coke. Hospitality is amazing here in Africa. I have learned so much from them about giving from your heart, giving all you have and giving the best.


I was distributing magazines to the mamas. These magazines are used to make beads so the mamas can make necklaces and earn a little extra income.


I am enjoying my time here in Africa. I just wish I could click my heels together and have Todd and the kids appear! I miss them so much and the thought of being here another two weeks is overwhelming. I want my time here to count for eternity. I want to make the most of each moment. I want my times with the Lord to be sweet. It is so difficult being patient and waiting on the Lord. All throughout scripture I am reminded to wait on the Lord, to be of good courage, the Lord is with me, and He is faithful. I know God is stretching me and growing me...so it is for my good...but it is still hard!

May God receive all the glory! Amen.

Disappointing...

I got a call this afternoon that the clerk/registrar did not show up to work today at the courthouse. Therefore we could not get our ruling. We now have to wait until Monday. Upon hearing this news, I was immediately reminded of Habakkuk 2:3. "Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay." God has an appointed day, and I will wait in hope for that day.
Keep Praying. Do not be discouraged. Our God is still awesome, great, sovereign, and faithful.

Lacey, you're the best! Thank you, thank you, thank you for the pictures on the previous post! I LOVE them. Jaden and Kellen, you are so handsome and Sage you are beautiful! You are quite the artist--you're paintings are great! It looks like you had fun with Mrs. Gipe! I can't wait to see you! xxxooo

Christopher, Katie and I are all doing well. We cant wait to get home and see everyone. Christopher is saying new words everyday. Katie is looking better. She gets grumpy before meal times (just like her mommy!) but after eating and drinking, she has a sparkle in her eye and a mischievous smile. I have been able to catch up on sleep, make lots of new friends, hang out with Christopher and Katie, do lots of walking and sweating, and am learning all the good restaurants. (Sounds like a rough life-huh?) I am hanging in there and enjoying my time here...but I can't wait to be at the airport with my kiddos!!

Right now I am waiting for a phone call from our lawyer to hear our ruling...I will post as soon as I know anything!

Just a little Sunshine to brighten your day

Kisses to you mommy
Handsome little man
To Mommy....Love Kellen

Artist in the making
To Mommy...Love Sage
Girls just wanna have fun!

Tears of thankfulness

To all of you who are leaving comments...you are getting really good at making me cry! ...in a good way =) God has been so good to me and I have been blessed beyond what I could ever imagine to call you my friends. You are just as much a part of this process as Todd and I are. Thank you for recalling special memories, for the reminder of scripture, for the continual encouragement and support. Every time I get on my blog and read your comments, I know it is God who is speaking directly to me. I think that is why I am so teary eyed...because I know without a doubt that God is ministering to me through you. Thank you for being so willing and obedient to be used by God for his purposes throughout this adoption journey.

The thought that I cannot escape right now is a quote from Gavin, a five year old, "Maybe Jesus had the judge say no because he wants Mrs. Moore (me!) to tell more people about Jesus." Thank you for that encouragement Gavin! I will keep my chin up, and I will look for opportunities to proclaim the love and name of Jesus!

This is a shout out to Amy and Bethany... Johnson, your piki driver, sends you greetings!

Looking forward to seeing God at work today, even in the littlest details,
Jenny

Our God remains to be praised!

We arrived at the courthouse in Kampala at 2pm, spent about 2 minutes in a tiny room with the judge, and were told that he had not had time to look at our file. He said he will give the verbal ruling to the registrar, who will then read it aloud on Friday. The lawyer said we should receive a written ruling some time next week. I do not understand how all the miscommunication happens, but it does, and frequently.
I am confused, upset, angry, sad, lonely, discouraged, and frustrated, yet our God is still the same God and he still deserves our praises. I have had some deep and difficult conversations with God, journaled my heart out, and have cried till I have no more tears. It is hard. It is difficult being here by myself. Erryn and I talked tonight, and she has had a long and difficult day as well. It looks like both of us are delayed another week. We are discouraged but are clinging to the hope that we have in Christ. It is so ironic that Erryn and I are both in Uganda at the same time, going through one of the most challenging journeys and we can't be together. We keep telling each other, "I wish I could be there for you..." We cannot wait until the day when we are both on that plane with four children! I know it will happen, so I will choose to persevere. I know I am not doing it in my own strength. My flesh says to give up and go home. I am tired. I miss my family. I hate the drama. But I know I have been called to a bigger purpose, and in my weakness, God's strength is made perfect.
Keep praying...I know deep in my heart that God is at work. Even when we can't see the answers we are praying for, I know ultimately it will be for our good and for God's glory. I have to remind myself, "it is not about me...it is all about God and for His name to be made known." I would give anything to be finished with this adoption and to be reunited as a complete family, but in the mean time, I will choose to be obedient and willing so that I can be used to the fullest for God's glory. I need your prayers. You are fighting a big battle in the spiritual realm on my family's behalf.

Big Day, Bigger God!

Tomorrow is the Big Day!

Pray purposefully tonight as you lay your head down that the Judge grants us irrevocable guardianship of Katie & Christopher. Pray with purpose, and with the knowledge that the One we speak to and with hears us, and desires to do good things that shine with His glory.

Pray for a favorable verbal & written ruling.

Big Day...Bigger God!

SMILE

Wonderful first milkshake for Christopher/Not so wonderful first haircut for Katie

BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE.... WONDERFUL MEMORIES....SAD GOODBYE

Life in Africa

Single moms and moms of Twins,

I wish you could have a glimpse into my heart right now...I am overflowing with gratitude and complete humbleness. I am truly without words as I try to explain the way God has ministered to me through you. Your prayers and your words of encouragement left in the 'comments' section have left me overwhelmed. I had huge tears streaming down my face as I read every comment left on the previous post--'Little Katie-Big Appetite.' God has created us to have fellowship with other believers...and there is nothing like it. It is a sweet fragrance to my soul, a comfort, and a reminder to stay steadfast. I treasure you. With this said, I want everyone to read the comments left on the previous post. Just scroll to the bottom of 'Little Katie-Big Appetite' and click on 'comments.'

I am hanging in there. Last night was a tough but memorable night. I decided to bring Christopher and Katie to my hotel room for another slumber party. I really want to focus on getting Katie well, but I cant leave Christopher out. Every time I go to Amani, Christopher is obsessed with the window, pointing and saying 'GO!" He delights in our special outings. So with each child on a hip, and wearing a big backpack, I set out for the hotel. We did shower time--again, not a favorite!- got jammies on and then went to bed. They did really well, until Katie woke up about 3:30 am screaming at the top of her lungs. I could not figure out the problem but continued to cuddle, pray, and sing to her. I got her medicine, a drink of water, changed her diaper...still an ear piercing scream. I felt so helpless as well as concerned for the hotel guests on either side of me. So I called Todd...I think the first line I said was, "Help, I am at the end of my rope!" He comforted and encouraged me and then had Lacey call. It definitely helped get me through that moment and eventually Katie fell asleep on my legs and stomach. Then I woke up at 7am to a soaked bed. Katie had leaked through her diaper, and it wasn't just pee! Auugghhh! So as I lay awake this morning, I decided that I was going to do an honorable mention to all those out there who are single parents and to those who have twins. It is hard work and I have a better understanding of the kind of strength and love that is required of you on a daily basis.

I did receive some hopeful news today that there is a good chance that we will get our written ruling at the time of our verbal ruling! This is what I've been asking God to provide! The written ruling is usually at least a few of days later. We are scheduled for our verbal ruling tomorrow (Tuesday). I have been encouraged to take C & K to Kampala for the ruling (which has not traditionally been required) because we must be present for the written ruling if it comes. Pray hard with me that both rulings will come tomorrow. The written is needed to finalize passports, visas, etc.. Knowing that God is in the business of doing big things, we will continue to trust Him for big things.

Thank you for all your prayers. Let's continue to unite in one accord and petition to our Father in Heaven for a positive written ruling soon, for continued health and protection over Christopher and Katie, and for us to be reunited as a complete family soon. God's timing is always perfect and beautiful--so let His will be done.
Amen!

I apologize if this is all difficult to follow. Last night has left me somewhat emotionally and physically drained. On top of that, I am pressed for time. Mamma Susan has invited me to her house today!

Little Katie- Big Appetite

Last night, I brought Katie to my hotel room for a 'girls night.' We had a little slumber party just the two of us and it went really well. I know there are people out there praying specifically for Katie to drink more water because she has been willing to drink more than usual! This girl has got an appetite. This morning she had breakfast at the hotel... she drank a huge glass of milk without coming up for air, a small bowl of cheerios, three eggs with onions and green peppers, a piece of toast, a banana, and a cup of juice. We had to leave in a hurry to meet our driver, so she was still hungry. Once we were in the car she started eating a clif bar.
I want to thank you Nadine, for recommending Prof. Ndugwa. I was able to reach him on his mobile this morning and he told me to meet him at the clinic...he would be there from 11 to 2. I called a driver this morning and was able to reach the clinic at 11:30. It is truly a hole in the wall and was a little difficult to find. But when we found him, it was like finding a hidden treasure. I only had to wait for 10 minutes, and the father waiting in front of me was bringing his sickler for his monthly check up. He told me that Prof. Ndugwa is the best in Uganda for treating sickle cell anemia. Ndugwa ended up writing out a plan for Katie and drew more blood. Since last Mon. her hemoglobin had gone up... It is now 8.0 which is good. The unfortunate thing is Katie does get motion sick...so that huge breakfast she had this morning...yep you guessed it! The doctor says he has nothing to give someone as little as her for motion sickness. We have many more trips to Kampala to make as well as a looonng flight ahead of us. Please add this to your prayer list! I have a lot of work ahead of me in order to help Katie get well. I am feeling encouraged by my visit with Prof. Ndugwa, but I am needing to change her diet, increase her fluids by 3x what she is normally drinking and adding a few medicines to her routine. There is also some challenges and discouragement I am facing from other areas so please continue to pray. It has been a difficult and long day.
I am on very limited time right now and am unable to proof this...hope it makes sense. I cant tell you what a difference it makes to know you are praying for me. I cried as I read through Todd's last blog and all the comments that have been left on the posts. You are making a difference. Thank you.
To my family --I miss you so much. I love you and am continuing to pray for you. Have a happy Easter. I will be celebrating in Uganda while thinking of you.

Good Friday- Saturday looking for hope.

(per Todd)

In the sober thoughts and emotions of Good Friday, and, yet, an overwhelming thankfulness and humility before God, we continue to ask Him to heal His little Katie-girl.

She is beautiful. Have you studied her eyes yet? If not, search through some of Jenny's recent photos on her posts. I'm telling you, her eyes go right through you. It's like you can see God's purpose in them- a purpose much greater than any of us realize.

Katie shows signs of discomfort continually, and I can tell from her voice on the phone, Jenny is pouring all of her love into Katie. I can also tell that Jenny has that worried mother's heart right now. Not worry that God is not sovereign, but that worry that her child is far from well.

It is our Good Friday night, and her Saturday morning. As we will be asleep, she will be traveling to Kampala hoping to meet with a specialist that we were referred to by a friend. We are very hopeful that he will be able to help her in some way.

Please pray as you read this that God would give them safe and easy travel (we think Katie gets motion sickness- and Kampala requires a few hours of car time).

Pray that the Professor they are to meet may be able to help, and that he is available (an odd thing to be available on a Saturday on Easter weekend).

Pray, also, that Jenny will receive encouragement from other believers. This whole thing with Katie is emotionally and spiritually very difficult to do on her own.

As an important note to that, she is greatly encouraged to know who is praying for all of us right now. If you have not left a comment before, please do so that she may be encouraged by the many who hold her and our whole family up before the LORD.

Thank you. A million "Thank you"s for your encouragement and prayers. I truly believe that you have no idea the crucial role that God has for you during this time. However, thank you that you have chosen to submit to His call on you to pray and encourage. As a husband and daddy, I am eternally grateful to you, and to the God who is able to draw His family together for His purpose and glory.

Ahhh...Pictures at last!

All the mamas at Amani with their care/gift packages


Lacey and kids at Danida Village


Some of the children at Danida Village displaying their new gifts

Lacey getting a kiss from sweet little Weiss

Rub a Dub Dub...Christopher hates the tub


Ayub, Miriam, and Baby girl with all their new gifts!


Giving a gift of food to some children in an alley


Mommy and Katie at the Dr. appt.


Christopher and friends having "potty time"


Christopher in his favorite spot with Mommy

This morning while I was walking, I saw Mama Gladys and Mama Edith--they had finished their shift at Amani and were walking home. They immediately asked where Lacey was. I told them she went back to America, and they asked if it was because she had to return to school. I told them no, she had to return to her husband and children. They gasped and looked astonished. They said, "we thought she was just a girl...she has a husband??!" Then they said, "well, isn't the maid taking care of the children?" I was giggling inside, but said no, we don't have maids to take care of our children. The mamas again gasped and looked shocked. I told them it is not common like here in Africa and that it costs a lot of money. They told me that they would gladly come be our maids and that we can pay them whatever we want! It was a fun conversation which somehow led us to talk about rainy season here. I reminded them of when Lacey and I got caught in the downpour last week. Mama Gladys then said, "Did you fear the rain?" I said, "No, why?" She said that everyone fears the rain here. This is the second time we have heard this. Supposedly when it rains, everyone goes to bed!

Lacey everyone is missing you...Patrick at internet cafe asked about you and said that I must be really sad now, Fred our piki driver was disappointed that he didn't get to say goodbye to you...then I had to check back into the hotel last night, and guess what room I got? When they brought my bags into my room, I asked what bugs were on the walls and they told me it was just lakeflies....then he said, "if you fear them, I can have someone come and spray for you!" Lacey I about cracked up laughing and I immediately thought back to our previous fumigation!

This morning, I was reflecting on a couple verses in Isaiah 26. Verses 3 and 4 say, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal." Then in verse 8 it says, "Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts." I have complete peace this morning. I know I am not alone in Africa...I have my Lord right here by my side. It is the desire of my heart to have the name of Jesus be made known across the world. If that means staying here for another couple weeks so God can accomplish His purposes, then it is well with my soul. I am so encouraged that I have an eternal God to trust, a firm Rock to stand on, a God who will direct my steps.

Oh Lord, I pray that You bring the lost unto You. I want them to experience the grace, peace, and joy that you lavish upon your children. I want this world filled with people who are sold out to the one true God. May your will be done. Amen.

Jaden, Kellen, and Sage--I love you all the way to the sky and back and around the world a million times. I am praying for you. I am so excited to be together as a family soon! You will have so much fun meeting your brother and sister, and they can't wait to play with you! Hugs and kisses xxxooooo Love, Mommy