The "Art" of Adoption

I enjoy finding comparisons between life experiences and tangible symbols of them.  This morning I was thinking about how adoption might be seen in art.  There are probably many ways, maybe many that are more appropriate than what I have found here, but two forms found their way into my heart today:

First is the mosaic - the photo is of a favorite work of art.  It was created by the people of my faith community during a response to a message there.  The stones were placed by men, women, and kids present, including me.  It was a very moving experience to watch this mosaic go from its plain beginning state to something beautiful.  As each person chose a stone and a location for it, the beauty grew.  This is the result, and I love it!  The picture doesn't do it justice, but you get the idea hopefully. 



the mosaic table from our church - which stone do you think is mine?

I see adoption as similar to the mosaic in that lives are intermingled to create something that is more intricate and amazing than they would be alone.  Some stones are shaped differently; some stones are tiny, others larger; some shine, while some have a deeper glow.  People really are not much different from that, are we?

Only one aspect of the mosaic was limiting me in my search for an art form to symbolize adoption.  The mosaic is set once it has been created.  It captures a moment, a commitment at a certain time, the beauty created by a unique group of people that represents relationships cemented by love.  However,  I was seeking a more fluid form....

Then, I remembered the KALEIDOSCOPE!!!  The unique pieces that are collected in the inner chamber are each necessary for the end result.  Every color and shape contributes to the design - actually, the more colors and shapes, the more layers of complex beauty.  Pieces added would only increase that.  What sold me on this as the expression that I was looking for, was the fluidity of it.  A kaleidoscope is MADE to change.  Relationships are not static.  Life happens.  When the slightest movement or a twist of the barrel jars the pieces, the design changes.  Not the beauty.  Not the dependence upon one another.  The relationships do.  The resulting design does. 


With adoption, we CHOOSE to add another element, one that is crafted from very differnt material, to the core of the family kaleidoscope.  The patterns created are breathtaking.

We really can't have too much beauty, can we??  So, an update...
Two of the children from my last post have been chosen for the summer!  So many remain... maybe there is one (or more) that might add something amazing to YOUR life.  Message me or contact New Horizons for Children for more information.

With growing hope,
Sue

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SURPRISE!

www.villagetovillageintl.com

Love the picture of V leaving the orphanage for the last time  before joining our family!  Given very little hope and very little chance for a full life, BUT God intervenes and we get to be a part of that miracle <3

I have loved mail since I was a child - oh, the possibilities!  Anything wonderful could arrive in that mailbox!  Well, that has now extended to email and facebook -- ya never know what might come :)

Today, I got home from work to find a message from the wonderful folks at Village to Village.  They have been collecting funds for us so that donations can be tax-deductible.  They had a special gift that they are offering to us as a MATCHING GRANT!!!!  We did not expect this at all because we hadn't asked, applied, or anything!  They will match, dollar for dollar, any donations made for our adoption between now and 9/18 - up to $500!  Basically, a donation is doubled - give $5 and it becomes $10!  If we fulfill the match, that will be $1,000 - almost the cost of Vitaly's ticket to Latvia and home.  How awesome is that??  Just click on the link, go to our picture, and you can donate by paypal (or check but please tell them it is coming if so - 'cause our deadline is 9/18)

This is our final fundraising opportunity for donations for V's adoption.  Trip 3 is upon us - whew!  If you are considering a contribution, this would be perfect timing.  If not moved or able to do so, please consider sharing the link.  And take a look at what amazing things this organization is doing - as well as the other adopting families (including another child from Latvia!)

One more tidbit -- so, the message on Sunday that was shared by Matthew, our pastor, was a challenge to examine our lives to see what might need a change, and what might be holding us back from living the most full and God-honoring lives.  I've been chewing on that ever since... and had concluded that, for me, one thing that I need to let go of is my constant attempts to control - people, money, housing, circumstances, weight - well, you get the picture!  When I try to control, I am limiting what He can do, and I don't always recognize the difference between what is brought about on my own and what is a gift that is given with more love than I can imagine.  This is just the beginning of our several week discussions about "hope and transformation" but on day 2, I'm pretty much blown away :)  Looking forward to the days ahead and all that I have to learn.  That said, if you are curious about the message and questions, check out the link at www.crcc.org and think about joining me on the journey <3

Surprised by grace,

Sue

This is HARD!!!!

******This is a vent blog post - be warned.******

This is HARD!!!!!!!

*Seems like too much to do.

*Seems like never enough money.

*Seems like not enough respect.

*Seems that what I say is not heard.

*Seems like messes are everywhere.

*Seems like problems, sometimes serious problems, are a daily occurrence.

*Seems like I can't do this.

*Guess I'm a parent!

Okay, the above is written basically to say that if I am a parent, then I will experience the above things, and occasionally the above expression/action.

That is the case for every PARENT I have ever known.  There are no perfect parents and no perfect kids.  Those who think that they are or that they have - are not being honest I'm afraid.

I say this because there are those who FEAR that hosting and adoption will bring about the above mentioned issues - and then some.  Well, that is true.  However, becoming a parent will do that to you, regardless of how you become one.  Sometimes there are additional factors or issues are more complex with an older child who has had a rough start.  But that does not mean that we don't parent them!  Be informed, be prepared with resources, be prayerful, and be willing to risk your "perfect looking" life, then dive in.  I guarantee that you WILL feel all of the above.  But I also guarantee that you will experience these:

*Seems like you can't get enough of trusting hugs that are from the heart.

*Seems like progress toward a longtime goal requires celebration!

*Seems like God gives more strength and peace and joy even though you have taken on something far beyond what you can handle.

*Seems like you find friends who understand that will take up the slack for those who don't or who criticize.

*Seems like money isn't really so important anymore when compared to greater things.

*Seems like perfect love casts out all fear.

*Seems like acceptance goes a long way toward defeating any problem.

*Guess I'm a parent!

Finally, I am venting mostly because there are a LOT of amazing boys and girls who need a family!!  Also because there is a TON of fear surrounding folks hosting and/or adopting them.  I don't know what else to do with my frustration over this, so I'm dumping it here.  Parenting is HARD - any parenting of any child!!! If you are willing to take on this role, just know that. If you are willing to take this on with an older orphan, you will find that they need the same as every other child - patience, love, acceptance, time, energy....   All else will fall into place.  Whatever the issue, it is lessened and more likely to be healed if there is a loving family involved.  Without a family the chances of that issue increasing or causing more trouble for the child are exponentially greater!

There are hosting organizations that are preparing kids to come to families over Christmas.  If you are clear about the facts - it won't be easy but will be worth it - and you are willing to FIGHT THE FEAR, please contact me to find a child.  Not a perfect child, mind you, but one (or two or more!) who are worth every ounce of effort that you are willing to put in - and then some!!!

Okay, back to my more typical self..

a little shaky, but pressing on :)

With a hopeful heart,

Sue

Obsession - plain and simple

As we are making plans to finish our final adoption trip for our son, I find myself pouring once again over the photos of amazing children who have so much to give.  My family would likely say that I'm obsessed.  That may be true.  I check daily to see what children have found a home for the Christmas holidays - and hopefully forever in many cases - once moms and dads fall in love with them!

I have been known to cheer or leap up and down when one of the kids I'm praying for is chosen.  I would host and adopt as many as possible until no longer permitted by any government or my hubby.  Right now, we have no beds left and plenty of bills remaining for our V's adoption.  So, I will:  pray, give what I can, post pictures, and continue to scour the New Horizons photos for treasures just waiting to be found and cherished!

If you or someone that you know is willing to learn more about hosting one of these kids or about donating to a fund to help a family who wants to do so, please contact me at pittcrew1@comcast.net or check out the New Horizons for Children website.  Single women or couples can apply.  There are suggested options for help with costs of airfare and travel if needed.

Oh, and please don't stop reading until you get a glimpse of why I am so drawn to these children.  Here are a few that I'd bring home in a heartbeat! Hmmmm.....wonder how many rooms I'd need?

Nikolajs
Host-only because of his age (meaning that he is beyond the possibility of adoption, but can still experience the love and support of a family for this season, possibly from afar after), this young man is so polite!  His interests include music - singing and writing, bodybuilding, going to the library, fishing...and much more.  

Armands
This soft-spoken, shy young man is from a rural area.  He looks out for his foster mom and would love a dad who could help him to ride a bike!

Kristine
This sweetheart is so so shy!  She loves art - especially drawing.  She says that she has been in an orphanage "forever."  The love of a family would soak right in!

Kitija
This little cutie pie has some similarities to our son.  She needs lots of love and support, energy and direction.  Since she isn't yet in school, she has so much time to grow and develop!  Special needs treasures are some of the most dear to me.

Julija and Ksenija
These sisters aim high!  One hopes to be a translator, the other an attorney!  Their foster parents have done an amazing job of preparing them to join a family.  Have to wonder what is in store for two with such a special story at such a young age....

Kjiva, Veneta, Ruta
These 3 are social, supportive of one another, active, and intelligent.  I'd love to scoop up all of them and even out the numbers a bit more in my very guy-oriented home :)  Something about their photo speaks of confidence.  Would love to meet them and see if that is true.

Solvita, Solvija

Two sisters with a lot of energy would bring life to any family.   Humor, dress up, and beautiful smiles would be a wonderful balance for the structure and guidance needed to give them what they need.

On a mission here!!  There are so many awesome kids and so many wonderful potential moms and dads out there - just need to find each other!  So, I'll post and pray. Anyone want to join me??

With a hopeful heart,
Sue