Anyone ever watch one of those shows/movies where the agents "go dark" during a most crucial part of the operation? Well, I'm feeling that it is time to do just that! At least where this blog is concerned. There may be other posts in the future, but for now the purpose has been fulfilled. I wanted to get the news of our adoption out, wanted to share information about something that breaks my heart - children without families to love and support them.
At this point, those who want to know more will follow up with us - feel free! Those who are participating in helping to bring V home have/are/will. Those who will host/adopt/support those who do - will.
I feel like the ups and downs of this process are grueling and sometimes just need to be guarded. It can be a really invasive and vulnerable feeling journey. Putting more "out there" right now is just not best for us or him.
So, if you want to know more, just ask :) email me at pittcrew1@comcast.net or message me on facebook (Suzan Smail Peterson). It isn't that I don't want to share, just need to be a little more private about it for a time.
Posts including any of my kids are limited to what they want to have shared usually. That is why not much is seen of A or J - they prefer that. N is free with his photos and info - a different personality. V hasn't yet had a chance to say. So, I'll try to honor him in waiting awhile, sharing a highlight or frustration now and then, but just going along as I did before all of this began. Life is different, but life is the same too. Very, very blessed!
Friday, September 23, 2011
Sunday, September 18, 2011
On the flip side...
Last post was venting a bit of frustration regarding issues of money and fear, but today I hope to offer a glimpse of the flip side! There are so many people involved in making an adoption happen. Some have a small role, some ongoing, some pretty crucial. Each and every one is appreciated! I have a list of all who have been involved since the beginning - in any way. I look forward to the day when I can share this with our son. He needs to see how many people have been a part of loving and bringing him home. :)
Some examples that stand in opposition to the money monster and fear ....
*a stranger who donates at a yard sale without buying anything - just because she wants to help
*teachers who haven't had a pay increase in, what, 3 years - buying jewelry because 30% will go to the adoption
*a widow on a limited income gets creative and gives regularly and generously (ever heard of the widow's mite anybody?)
*a teen uses social media to help raise funds from other teens
*a relative who is not particularly fond of me :P gives from the heart because this isn't about us - it is bigger than that
*an adoption coordinator who goes beyond paperwork to help with emotional and personal needs
*friends calling or texting or messaging to check in - especially after cranky posts! :)
*families who have adopted before us/are a few steps ahead of us - many we haven't even met - willing to answer questions and provide encouragement throughout because they've "been there"
*family where dad works two jobs, mom is full-time, and money is limited - give on paypal anyway because they want to support us and v
*moms of friends donating/buying items though they've met me only a handful of times
*friends offering to hold and coordinate fundraisers for/with us though they have more than enough to do already
And these are just a few examples!
Wanted to give a fair shake to the "other side" of the frustration. Adoption has seemingly endless challenges and requirements, but each step also has gifts and blessings. Picture a running track with hurdles from start to finish. Picture an out of shape, height-challenged runner facing hurdles set as high as her chin. The track is surrounded with fields of wildflowers and visiting butterflies, trees housing singing birds, and stands full of cheering supporters. Those hurdles are not going to be removed, but the setting is what makes this inexperienced runner keep going, especially when she has already plowed through several of those hurdles instead of gracefully leaping over them - and there are an awful lot of them ahead.
Got to remember the gifts along the way and the goal at the end!
Blessed,
Sue
To help with hurdles, use the paypal button to the right or contact me for more information.
Some examples that stand in opposition to the money monster and fear ....
*a stranger who donates at a yard sale without buying anything - just because she wants to help
*teachers who haven't had a pay increase in, what, 3 years - buying jewelry because 30% will go to the adoption
*a widow on a limited income gets creative and gives regularly and generously (ever heard of the widow's mite anybody?)
*a teen uses social media to help raise funds from other teens
*a relative who is not particularly fond of me :P gives from the heart because this isn't about us - it is bigger than that
*an adoption coordinator who goes beyond paperwork to help with emotional and personal needs
*friends calling or texting or messaging to check in - especially after cranky posts! :)
*families who have adopted before us/are a few steps ahead of us - many we haven't even met - willing to answer questions and provide encouragement throughout because they've "been there"
*family where dad works two jobs, mom is full-time, and money is limited - give on paypal anyway because they want to support us and v
*moms of friends donating/buying items though they've met me only a handful of times
*friends offering to hold and coordinate fundraisers for/with us though they have more than enough to do already
And these are just a few examples!
Wanted to give a fair shake to the "other side" of the frustration. Adoption has seemingly endless challenges and requirements, but each step also has gifts and blessings. Picture a running track with hurdles from start to finish. Picture an out of shape, height-challenged runner facing hurdles set as high as her chin. The track is surrounded with fields of wildflowers and visiting butterflies, trees housing singing birds, and stands full of cheering supporters. Those hurdles are not going to be removed, but the setting is what makes this inexperienced runner keep going, especially when she has already plowed through several of those hurdles instead of gracefully leaping over them - and there are an awful lot of them ahead.
Got to remember the gifts along the way and the goal at the end!
Blessed,
Sue
To help with hurdles, use the paypal button to the right or contact me for more information.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Money is NOT the issue!
Hi friends,
Probably shouldn't write this now because I'm in a bit of a tirade/soapbox kind of mood...but I'm gonna do it anyway ;) Here is the thing - I am SICK of how many people and institutions focus on money and finances when we are talking about a child's life.
*"Should you be doing this? What about your other children's financial security?"
*"Will you be able to retire if you spend a lot to adopt?"
*"You rent right now. That adoption money could be used as a downpayment for a home!"
*"This doesn't make sense from a financial point of view. Maybe wealthier families should be doing this."
*"Is it right to expect others to pay for this adoption through donations and fundraisers?"
Some of these things have been stated. Some have been inferred. Some I've asked myself.....
Well, if you are one who has thought or said anything like this, it is okay for you to have your opinion. However, I'll just add mine here. You may disagree, but I can't let it go unsaid. My thoughts about the above...
Seems simple to me. Life trumps stuff. Bottom line.
Financial security is not what it seems - for those of us who believe in God - and Jesus' love for us, those are the places we find security. The markets and gold and housing values are fickle. God is always the same. Our kids have much more than they NEED. What they "need" is to see how little others have, then to see how we can help.
Retire? There is no guarantee we'll live that long! If we do, retirement is a wonderful option, but it isn't a right. If I need to work, that is okay. I'd just find things to fill my time anyway.
Okay, I'd love to have a home. Don't like paying a large rent payment that would cover a mortgage payment here. BUT, a house isn't a home. If I can only have one or the other, I prefer a home. That isn't something that I have to own, but it does require love and joy - things you can't buy.
Doesn't make sense? Well, neither does thousands of kids being sent off on their own to try to survive, totally unprepared. Wealthier folks are welcome to join in, but there are so many kids who are alone. It will take more than just those who can "afford" it to meet the vast need. Besides, we do many things that don't "make sense" - won't step on too many toes by listing some :) Not making sense doesn't usually stop us!
Donations/fundraisers? Actually, my perspective on this is changing. We don't have to have anyone donate anything for our son to come home. We believe that the bills will be paid, one way or another. However, I have always enjoyed being a part of giving to people and events that will make a difference. There is a lot of joy in it! And I am really excited about showing our child how many people helped him to come home. I think that will be really healing for him - after so many losses and rejections. BUT, please don't give grudgingly. If you don't want to, or can't ,or disagree with our decision - it won't change our situation or V's. He'll get home regardless. These opportunities are not meant to irritate people into donating. We welcome those who are so moved, of course. But, the money is not important. The message is - kids need families.
Guess I'm done ranting and raving for this post. If you want to be a part of bringing V home, current options include: the donate button to the right; order from the Silpada jewelry party in the last post; or give a New Horizons for Children donation in our name (tax deductible) - for a Christmas visit while we wait. Their address is NHFC 3950 Cobb Parkway, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101 Phone 678-574-4677 FAX 678-574-4757.
Until next time, when I'll try not to be cranky before i type :) Sue
Probably shouldn't write this now because I'm in a bit of a tirade/soapbox kind of mood...but I'm gonna do it anyway ;) Here is the thing - I am SICK of how many people and institutions focus on money and finances when we are talking about a child's life.
*"Should you be doing this? What about your other children's financial security?"
*"Will you be able to retire if you spend a lot to adopt?"
*"You rent right now. That adoption money could be used as a downpayment for a home!"
*"This doesn't make sense from a financial point of view. Maybe wealthier families should be doing this."
*"Is it right to expect others to pay for this adoption through donations and fundraisers?"
Some of these things have been stated. Some have been inferred. Some I've asked myself.....
Well, if you are one who has thought or said anything like this, it is okay for you to have your opinion. However, I'll just add mine here. You may disagree, but I can't let it go unsaid. My thoughts about the above...
Seems simple to me. Life trumps stuff. Bottom line.
Financial security is not what it seems - for those of us who believe in God - and Jesus' love for us, those are the places we find security. The markets and gold and housing values are fickle. God is always the same. Our kids have much more than they NEED. What they "need" is to see how little others have, then to see how we can help.
Retire? There is no guarantee we'll live that long! If we do, retirement is a wonderful option, but it isn't a right. If I need to work, that is okay. I'd just find things to fill my time anyway.
Okay, I'd love to have a home. Don't like paying a large rent payment that would cover a mortgage payment here. BUT, a house isn't a home. If I can only have one or the other, I prefer a home. That isn't something that I have to own, but it does require love and joy - things you can't buy.
Doesn't make sense? Well, neither does thousands of kids being sent off on their own to try to survive, totally unprepared. Wealthier folks are welcome to join in, but there are so many kids who are alone. It will take more than just those who can "afford" it to meet the vast need. Besides, we do many things that don't "make sense" - won't step on too many toes by listing some :) Not making sense doesn't usually stop us!
Donations/fundraisers? Actually, my perspective on this is changing. We don't have to have anyone donate anything for our son to come home. We believe that the bills will be paid, one way or another. However, I have always enjoyed being a part of giving to people and events that will make a difference. There is a lot of joy in it! And I am really excited about showing our child how many people helped him to come home. I think that will be really healing for him - after so many losses and rejections. BUT, please don't give grudgingly. If you don't want to, or can't ,or disagree with our decision - it won't change our situation or V's. He'll get home regardless. These opportunities are not meant to irritate people into donating. We welcome those who are so moved, of course. But, the money is not important. The message is - kids need families.
Guess I'm done ranting and raving for this post. If you want to be a part of bringing V home, current options include: the donate button to the right; order from the Silpada jewelry party in the last post; or give a New Horizons for Children donation in our name (tax deductible) - for a Christmas visit while we wait. Their address is NHFC 3950 Cobb Parkway, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101 Phone 678-574-4677 FAX 678-574-4757.
Until next time, when I'll try not to be cranky before i type :) Sue
Sunday, September 4, 2011
FUN-draiser Alert :) Vitaly loves bling! Sat, Sept. 17, 4-6pm
Jewelry anyone? A special piece for you or as a gift?
A friend/co-worker is helping me to host a Silpada jewelry party that you are welcome to attend if you live nearby. If not, you can order online if interested. She is kindly organizing and donating so that 30% of purchases got to Vitaly's adoption fund! Thanks Kristin :) See the info below for more details. Any questions, contact Kristin or me.
| Hostess: | Kristin O'Neil |
| Shop at: | http://mysilpada.com/kristin.o'neil |
| Email: | Kmv281@gmail.com |
| When: | Saturday, September 17, 2011 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Where: | Chevy's Restaurant 668 Clopper Rd Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878-1424 |
**See other details at the end of the post if you are interested in attending or ordering!
A few notes about FUN-draisers...
*I love the idea of many hearts and hands helping to bring a child to his family. Can you imagine when we show him the list of how many were a part of his coming? So many he doesn't even know? For a child who has been without for so long, what an outpouring of love it will seem to him!
*I also want what we do to have a bit of Vitaly in it, so each FUN-draiser will have a connection with something that he enjoys. In this case - BLING! He went through my jewelry box when here, found a heavy silver necklace with large links and decided that it made him look super cool. Grammie gave him his own, smaller, cooler necklace for a belated birthday gift - he never took it off. Dad brought him a woven bracelet from Guatemala and it left his arm only for bath time :) So, a jewelry FUN-draiser fits!
*Finally, if jewelry isn't your thing, no worries. Just an opportunity for those who are interested to join in with us. If you'd rather just donate, click the button to the right or look at past blogs for the New Horizons giving option. If you'd prefer to pray or just follow this blog, that is okay too. Getting the story of these kids out is my main goal, other than bringing him home.
Celebrating: phone and email connections that allow us to talk/chat on occasion; Vitaly keeps asking to come back :)
Waiting: to tell him that we want him to be a part of our family (have to wait on the court there); also waiting for clearances from police and home study folks to process documents; waiting for final permission from his director to bring him home for Christmas too.
MUCH THANKS to all of you who are with us in this adventure in any way! <3
**At this Silpada Fundraiser Event, you can help Sue and her family in their adoption pursuits of an amazing young boy, Vitaly, by purchasing beautifully handcrafted Sterling Silver Jewelry at a fun Party with no formal presentations - just friends and fabulous jewelry! You can come and go as you please, since we will be in the back private room at Chevy's Restaurant from 4:00-6:00! There will be some delicious appetizers out for you to enjoy, so grab your favorite beverage at the bar and come to see and support some great friends with a great cause. 30% of all jewelry sold at the event will go towards bringing their Vitaly home! Feel free to bring a friend...or two! And if you can't make it but would still like to help, please visit my online boutique where you can place an order. Just be sure to choose the option to add your order to this event! Although we are fundraising for Sue and her family, please look for Kristin O'Neil as the party host!!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
What to expect when you are expecting...
No - not a baby, but an adopted teen! Recently, I've been feeling a lot like when we were expecting our 1st three boys - waiting, advice, waiting, doctors, waiting, preparing, waiting, asking questions, .... You get the idea! A lot is similar to me, but a lot is different. The babies were not waiting far away for us to come and bring them home. They hadn't spent years apart from us. Waiting is always hard, but this waiting seems to have a bit more sadness. Every day is a day closer to being together, but it is also a day without hugs, smiles, and knowing about where he is and what his day was like. Waiting encourages me to trust God more for what I have no control over though and that is a relief.
While we wait, we fill out forms and make payments - for fingerprints, criminal and child abuse checks, adoption fees, motor vehicle records, and many, many more! It does make me feel like I'm doing something while I wait....
Some wonderful things have happened since my last post! We have called our son in Eastern Europe, and can do so every week! We can occasionally reach him with an email. We have sent a small package that he should receive any day now. Two more friends have donated toward his visit at Christmas. Another friend has a new fundraising idea.
If you want to help us to bring our 4th child home as soon as possible, please choose any of the below options to contribute to that effort. Questions are welcome at our email pittcrew1@comcast.net.
*Fees due (and how to donate):
1. Christmas visit/hosting through New Horizons
http://www.active.com/donate/Christmas2011/ourvitaly
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
2. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
3. Home study/post-placement fee of
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. Hosting Adoption Fees
New Horizons for Children, Inc.
3950 Cobb Pkwy, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Hosting/Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
5. Please pray that the Home Study pieces will come together and be approved quickly so that we can bring V. home ASAP.
While we wait, we fill out forms and make payments - for fingerprints, criminal and child abuse checks, adoption fees, motor vehicle records, and many, many more! It does make me feel like I'm doing something while I wait....
Some wonderful things have happened since my last post! We have called our son in Eastern Europe, and can do so every week! We can occasionally reach him with an email. We have sent a small package that he should receive any day now. Two more friends have donated toward his visit at Christmas. Another friend has a new fundraising idea.
If you want to help us to bring our 4th child home as soon as possible, please choose any of the below options to contribute to that effort. Questions are welcome at our email pittcrew1@comcast.net.
*Fees due (and how to donate):
1. Christmas visit/hosting through New Horizons
http://www.active.com/donate/Christmas2011/ourvitaly
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
2. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
3. Home study/post-placement fee of
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. Hosting Adoption Fees
New Horizons for Children, Inc.
3950 Cobb Pkwy, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Hosting/Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
5. Please pray that the Home Study pieces will come together and be approved quickly so that we can bring V. home ASAP.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Adoption Progress and Needs - Where are we?
Well, a week since the last update finds us making slow, but steady progress. Here is the latest:
Yahoo!
*a bunk bed donated for N and V's room :)
*4 friends have stepped up to help coordinate different fundraisers (more about these soon!)
*we were able to email V. and he can respond occasionally, so he knows that we are thinking of him
*a care package should arrive to V. from us by the end of August - wish I could see his face
*tech-help from a friend to set up the paypal button
*Home Study paperwork slowly getting turned in - once piece at a time
*First babysitting-for-donation evening is scheduled with 2 cuties
Next steps and needs
*Currently focused on getting our Home Study completed!!!!
*Fees due (and how to donate):
1. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee $1,500
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
2. Home study/post-placement fee of $2,300
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
3. Summer Hosting/Adoption Fee of $2,500
New Horizons for Children, Inc.
3950 Cobb Pkwy, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Hosting/Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
5. Please pray that the Home Study pieces will come together and be approved quickly so that we can bring V. home ASAP.
Love to each of you,
Sue and the crew
Yahoo!
*a bunk bed donated for N and V's room :)
*4 friends have stepped up to help coordinate different fundraisers (more about these soon!)
*we were able to email V. and he can respond occasionally, so he knows that we are thinking of him
*a care package should arrive to V. from us by the end of August - wish I could see his face
*tech-help from a friend to set up the paypal button
*Home Study paperwork slowly getting turned in - once piece at a time
*First babysitting-for-donation evening is scheduled with 2 cuties
Next steps and needs
*Currently focused on getting our Home Study completed!!!!
*Fees due (and how to donate):
1. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee $1,500
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
2. Home study/post-placement fee of $2,300
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
3. Summer Hosting/Adoption Fee of $2,500
New Horizons for Children, Inc.
3950 Cobb Pkwy, Suite 708
Acworth, GA 30101
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Hosting/Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
4. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
5. Please pray that the Home Study pieces will come together and be approved quickly so that we can bring V. home ASAP.
Love to each of you,
Sue and the crew
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Adoption Announcement!
Yes, it is true! Our family is hoping to add another member! We are trying to adopt an older child, so want to speed through the process as fast as possible in order to "make up for lost time."
Keepin' it Simple refers to a few things:
1. I am not a tech-wizard, so if this actually posts, it will be shocking!
2. Time is limited, so instead of trying to spiff things up here, I'll just give you the basics. I trust that you'll excuse the lack of fun and adornment, but look forward to our progress.
3. Adoption is expensive and we need help to move quickly.
4. Instead of "bothering" folks who aren't interested in our story/needs in a more broad way, I am going to be really straight-forward here for people who choose to read it. I'll update the steps and the needs. Those who want to be involved, welcome! Those who don't, it is okay :) Probably need to find another blog though, cause that is our focus here :). Just want to be up front and honest.
Also, if you have specific questions about the adoption, feel free to email pittcrew1@comcast.net. We are at the stage of the process where we can't publicly say much in detail about the child. Please assist in that by making only private comments for now.
So.... first off - we are working through approval and home study stages. We need the following most urgently. If you want to contribute, any amount is appreciated!
1. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee $1,500
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
2. Home study/post-placement fee of $2,300
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
3. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
Simply grateful, Sue and crew
Keepin' it Simple refers to a few things:
1. I am not a tech-wizard, so if this actually posts, it will be shocking!
2. Time is limited, so instead of trying to spiff things up here, I'll just give you the basics. I trust that you'll excuse the lack of fun and adornment, but look forward to our progress.
3. Adoption is expensive and we need help to move quickly.
4. Instead of "bothering" folks who aren't interested in our story/needs in a more broad way, I am going to be really straight-forward here for people who choose to read it. I'll update the steps and the needs. Those who want to be involved, welcome! Those who don't, it is okay :) Probably need to find another blog though, cause that is our focus here :). Just want to be up front and honest.
Also, if you have specific questions about the adoption, feel free to email pittcrew1@comcast.net. We are at the stage of the process where we can't publicly say much in detail about the child. Please assist in that by making only private comments for now.
So.... first off - we are working through approval and home study stages. We need the following most urgently. If you want to contribute, any amount is appreciated!
1. Adoption agency case management/dossier coordination fee $1,500
ARS
8 South Main Street, P.O. Box 201
Shrewsbury, PA 17361
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption) N
**NOT currently tax deductible if that makes a difference
2. Home study/post-placement fee of $2,300
Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, Inc.
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 310
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(note Bryan/Suzan Peterson Adoption)
**This option IS tax deductible for direct contributions.
3. To contribute directly to our personal adoption account (NOT tax deductible): use Paypal by clicking on the donate button on the side of the blog. This will go toward whatever the current expenses/fees are.
Simply grateful, Sue and crew
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