Belanich's Great Journey

Home update!

2006-11-15T19:16:00.000-05:00

Okay, Okay… So we have been home for well over a month and not a single post. (I know almost home two months!) I realize not good odds. But I think I am FINALLY getting into the swing of things, so hopefully I will be up and running again. Let’s just say adjustment was a bit rocky at first. It started with Kyra and Mommy getting VERY SICK. Nothing a little fluid from an IV for Kyra couldn’t help…. But then came the NASTY colds. And we must not forget a son that went from being the King of the castle to having to share his throne. Someone said it takes 28 – 30 days for a change to occur and to stick. And they were right. In the past several weeks Paul has been doing much better. He still has his moments but not nearly as bad as when we first came home.

Kyra is doing wonderfully. She is an amazing little girl and has made leap and bounds improvements. She has gone from a little pup that could barely sit up to a precious angel that crawls all over the place and trying to walk. She has figured out that if she flashes her amazing smile she will get anything she wants, and she has won over her Grandpa like no other. Kyra has met so many family and friends, and still have a ton to meet. She loves playing and loves “talking” on the telephone. I do apologize to anyone out there she may have called and we didn’t know about it. And apparently there have been few.

We are now busy getting ready for the holidays and mommy’s return to work after the holidays. (But we are not talking about that.) for now enjoy some pictures and I promise to do better updating!
Our journey to China is over but will never be forgotten. but now it life as a family of four. So look for a new design or new name... or something... I will let everyone know when I figure it out myself! IF you want to see additional pictures feel free to go to www.babyjellybeans.com and look under kyra!
Till next time!

back home and adjusting...

2006-10-10T19:23:00.000-05:00

hey all! we are back home and finally doing well... we had a bout of illness, and one hospital visit later... but we are doing much better. Promise pictures to come soon!

WE HAVE HER!!!!!

2006-09-18T08:47:00.000-05:00

KYRA is with us, and life couldn't be better... Please go to our other site and check out how things are going!!! WE are so in LOVE!!!!

http://www.babyjellybeans.com/web/do/site?ID=5117

I am finding it easier to post right now to the other site, so that will be the primary one for the time being.

As time gets closer...

2006-09-10T16:35:00.000-05:00

We have decided for our trip to China that we will use another site.... as we hear Blogger is sometimes a blocked site, or not always the most cooperative site to have. So here is the direct link to our new site: http://www.babyjellybeans.com/web/do/site?ID=5117

Or you can go to babyjellybeans.com and search under KYRA.... and get there that way.

We will try to post to blogger, but like I said I hear it can be difficult.

We do hope you will follow our journey as you all have been a wonderful support and the best part of the journey is about to start!!!

Until next time!

Getting Ready...

2006-08-29T20:25:00.000-05:00

Plane Tickets.... CHECK
Visa's........... CHECK
Prescriptions.... ALMOST CHECK
Parents figure out Skype...... Maybe someday!
packing........ almost thinking about it.
a zillion other things............ CHECK!

I can not believe now everything is moving quickly. Okay I know I bitched and moaned how slow things have been going for well 18 months... now that things are flying... WOW! Gee I can not tell you how busy things are at work, home and life now that we are just a few weeks away from traveling! SUCH IS LIFE. I can't wait we are coming sweet Kyra... we are coming.
~Until Next Time~

11 months old....

2006-08-23T21:21:00.000-05:00

Our sweet Kyra turns 11 months today… 11 months without her Mommy and Daddy. Hopefully this will be the last month without each other. We may not be able to hold her or comfort her yet, but she is in our thoughts, prayers and hearts constantly. I hope she can feel the love that we have for her. WE are coming baby! My best guess is we will be in China for her birthday. So my dream is we will get on our web cam and Paul and Grandparents will be on theirs, and we will have a cyber birthday party for her. Maybe even a little cake and ice cream. Who knows, I have no idea where we will even be.

My emotions are on a roller coaster ride (still). I can’t believe we are going to China and finally getting Kyra. Okay, well hopefully we will be going to China soon. But then to think that we are going to China freaks me out. How am I going to leave Paul for two weeks? I know he is in the best hands possible. But I miss him when I am at work, or when goes to bed early. How am I am going to handle two weeks without my boy. What happens if our communication techniques don’t work in China? What happens if he is so mad at us, he takes it out on his little sister. It’s not like she is going to just sit quietly and eat, sleep and poop the first several months. She will be one. she will be into his toys and everything. We have been talking to paul about being the big brother and what an awesome / cool job that is, but what happens if the novelty wears off for him?? I am worried about his adjustment to all of this. I am sure he will be fine and he tells me all the time he loves his “sissy” and we buy her things, but it is easy now, she doesn’t live here with him!! I am sure all parents go through this when they bring in a second child, right?

What happens if Kyra doesn’t bond with me and what happens if she cries and screams and we become the couple others blog home about. You know what I am talking about they always say something like this: “…there’s one poor family, their baby is just having the roughest time bonding….” Come on we have all read those blogs, what happens if that is us!

What about snakes and mice on planes?!?! Darn the movie industry and TV world for featuring crap like that. Now I am freaked out some snake is going to slither it’s way into the toilet or over head compartment, or a mouse will chew on my toes while we fly millions of miles away.

Okay are you guys getting my snowball effect my emotions are having on me?!?! I play the “what if” game and guess what I have really no control over most of it. I just need to realize that everything will be fine. We are with a group of people. Bob and I will be together and together we can do anything. Yea, that lasts me about 30 seconds, and I start to panic a bit again.

~Until Next Time~

Paul's First Goal (Trying to figure out video)

2006-08-22T19:02:00.000-05:00

Is it True? Can it Be?

2006-08-19T17:43:00.000-05:00

A wonderful travel friend of ours, found out today a package is on it's way to our agency. Now we have no idea what this package is... but it could be our Travel Approvals (TA'S)! IF this is indeed the case, then our agency can get our Counsulate Appointments (CA's)... which means WE ARE GOING TO CHINA!!! Now unfotunately we have to wait till Tuesday or so, before we know for certain if its out TA'S... But the excitement mounts, and we have yet another package to track!
~Until Next Time~

Here's our girl

2006-08-16T16:51:00.000-05:00

Here's an updated picture of our Little one!! Isn't she beautiful!! She has four teeth now and toppling over at 17 Pounds. The hair is still crazy, but that is okay, it gives her character!

Sorry I have not posted a lot since the referral... I guess too many emotions. I mistakenly thought the roller coaster ride would end magically when we got our referral. Boy I was wrong. The guessing game just continues, we are just not guessing about different things!

~Until Next Time~

Okay, as soon as BLOGGER let's me post pictures, then I will... ARGH!

Happy Birthday Paul!

2006-08-06T17:54:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we celebrated my sweet, Paul's THIRD birthday! I can not believe he is three. He has grown up so much, and it is amazing how much he changes and learns something new every day!! Actually, more accurately, he teaches me something new and exciting every day. Paul becomes excited at the funniest things, and he shows his excitment in the best ways. He makes me see things in a whole new light. Like the smallest things, seeing a butterfly, or a bug, or watching Garfield, for the 100000 time and he watches with the intent as if it was the first! I love you PAUL!!!

This whole past week has been a whirl wind, and I believe I have hit a wall of exhaustion. Just to reacap... Monday was paul's oral surgery. All went wonderfully. Then in the afternoon we got Kyra's referral. Tuesday I attempted to get work done (yea right) Wednesday we finally saw our sweet little Kyra face. And let's just say that day was the most emotionally draining day I had, had since we got Paul's referral 3 years ago. Paul's reaction: she's cute can i have candy now?? what more did i expect out of a 3 year old. Thursday and Friday attempted to get through the work week and spend time wiht my brother and his children that came into town. Friday night celebrated Paul's birthday and Saturday, yet again celebrated Paul's birthday. A week with very little sleep. I think for a few days if I got more than 2-3 hours I was doing great. Needless to say today we all crashed. I just can't believe we have a daughter. I want to learn everything I can about her providence, and where she is from. I want to kiss that sad face and let her know mommy and daddy will alwyas be here for her. Ah I wish I could jump on a plane today! Well, except I am having HUGE anxiety about leaving Paul. Okay more than HUGE anxiety. It makes my heart skip a beat everytime I even think about it. But Bob and I have decided it was best for Paul and Kyra. Best for me, probably not, but this trip is not about me....It is about Kyra and her bonding to us. Did I mention that she crys loudly at strangers?? Don't get me wrong I did not expect an easy union. But OH NO! But for now we are in the hurry up and wait stage... and we are waiting for TA's and working on getting our Visa's done and I am here freaking out. (that is what I do best!!!)

~Until next Time!~

INTRODUCING KYRA LYNN BELANICH

2006-08-02T10:26:00.000-05:00

We are over the move to introduce you to Guang Si HE. Born September 23rd, 2005

Lot's more info to come, but too excited to type right now!~!~~

OUR REFERRAL!

2006-07-31T14:37:00.000-05:00

WE are over the moon to announce that Paul has a Baby Sister!

Name: Guang Si He
Si = ponder, to think, or to miss
He = Bird Crane, longevity, good future

Birthdate: Septeber 23rd, 2005

Providence: Jiangxi
Guangchang County Social Welfare Institution

More info coming on Wednesday!!!!

Congratulations everyone that got referrals today!!

~Until Next time~

Pins and Needles

2006-07-31T06:48:00.000-05:00

Today should be the day that we get the information on our little girl. we are very excited with anticipation! Okay, more than very excited we are coming out of our skin. But of course we don't do anything without hiccups along the way. SO, of course today is also the day that we will be spending the day at Children's hospital. Paul has to have some oral surgery done... few cavaties, nerve treatment, caps, the works.. POOR little one. Dr. believes it is from lack of prenatal care. or he just has very bad luck when it comes to teeth! so now not only are worried about that, as they are putting him under to do all the work, we have to worry, will our phones work at the hospital! if not, that is okay, we will just our info later in the day!! Okay... today is going to be a good day!!

~Until Next Time~

You have to be kidding me...

2006-07-29T06:58:00.000-05:00

There is about 30 miles between us and the information of our baby. Our Agency's package is in Wilmington Ohio.......... ARGH. We could be in Wilmington in less then hour. But of course that would do us no good, and the package is being sorted so it can go on to Evansville Indiana which is 5 hours away from us. Can you say frustrating. But at least it is out of California. This weekend is going to go so SLOW!
~Until Next Time~

SHE'S in THE USA... at least a PICTURE

2006-07-27T22:30:00.000-05:00

I just checked the website one last time before bed... not expecting anything... BUT DHL has our package in California!!! YEA!!!!!!!!!!! if that package can get on a plane tonight we still have hope for a referal tomorrow!!! or it will be a long weekend... Either way, info is on it's way!!

Until Next time

GUESS WHAT?!!?!

2006-07-26T21:40:00.000-05:00

We are having a baby!!!!! Our "referral" is on it's way... who know where she is right now though. I am being a little cautious as the CCAA has not updated it's page yet and for some reason we can not get a tracking number on the package. So, I don't know if referrals have been sent, or will be sent. BUT FTIA confirmed that referrals are being sent this week and by early next week we should have pictures, and details! YAH! Today has been an amazing day, the first of many more to come. And on other exciting news I got my first TWO homestudies to do as a social worker. I am so excited to be on the other end of doing home studies!! Little nerve racking, but it will definitely help pass the time between referral and travel!

Okay, gotta go back to checking the CCAA website every two seconds and to bug DHL for tracking numbers!!

~Until Next Time~

FTIA Reunion

2006-07-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Some old friends, together again...

This weekend was the FTIA Family Reunion. Let's just say the weather was perfect and the company was even better. Every year it seems like we know more and more people and it just makes the picnic that much more enjoyable. This year was especially wonderful for us, as Maureen and her daughter Liza made the trip to the reunion. Maureen travelled with us on our second trip to Russia and our children are from the same region of Kemerovo. Liza is not from the same baby home, or same city as Paul, but she was the first friend Paul had outside the walls of the Orphanage. They had not seen each other since Paul was six months old and we left our hotel for the last time in Moscow Russia. We introduced the two, and Paul simply stared at her, taking Liza in. It was one of the most moving things I have witnessed. It was as if they knew eachother, and knew just how special they are! They had a wonderful time chasing each other, and playing together throughout the day. Paul and Liza will always have a bond that is very special. We hope to go see Liza and her mom later this year. With our new found reconnectedness we want our children to grow up knowing each other and continuing on with their special bond.

Aside from the reunion we got to spend some time with Bob's best friend and his wife; Scott and Dr. Amy. Scott has been VERY busy studying to take the Bar exam and we are very thankful he was able to spend some time with us just two days before the biggest exam in his life. Needless to say I got to learn about some law... I am sure he will PASS and we are sending him many prayers!

We were awoken this morning by the oddest sound. At first I thought Scott and Dr. Amy's air conditioner was going in and out. Bob thought Paul was breathing heavily (okay so REALLY HEAVY) Then Bob and I both jolted awake realizing it was hot air balloons... LANDING in their back yard. YUP that's right~ THREE hot air balloons landed in Scott and Amy's back yard... Okay so the field immediately behind their back yard. Needless to say it renewed my interest in wanting to go up in one. Bob promised a few years back for my 30th birthday, so maybe this year for my B-day we can go on a hot air balloon ride (HINT HINT BOB~). After the excitement of the Hot air balloons, we got our selves up and going and then spent the day at the Indy Zoo. It is such a kid friendly place, and a great way to wear Paul out for the ride home.

Paul and Liza's First car ride together

2 1/2 years later - fast friends.

It has been a wonderful weekend with my boys, and it was good to get away from the gossip and frustration of this current adoption. But alas it is Sunday Night and I am dying to check the sites, as it MONDAY morning in CHINA!
~Until Next Time~

almost three... and perfect!

2006-07-21T22:21:00.000-05:00

GOD we love Paul so much... we can't imagine life without him!! he brings us joy, happiness, and LOVE! Here's our boy... almost THREE~
Until Next time~

Now the rumors are flying...

2006-07-14T20:41:00.000-05:00

As all of you have probably figured out by now... I am not a patient person. Each day I pray that I will learn how to be a patient person, and I can't always have what I want when I want it... But each day passing, I tend to lose optimism and patience. It is one of my many character flaws, but it is a doozie. I wish I could revel in the fact that it really looks positive that we will be in the next batch of referrals. All our signs are positively pointing that we are in the next batch of referrals. Actually the rumors are saying through JULY 13th. Which is very disappointing for several late July people, but such a blessing to my ears. I cannot wait to finally see a picture of this child that I have dreamt and talked about for so many months. I can't wait for Paul to actually see his sissy, and realize what we have been talking about for MONTHS on end. But, alas, who knows if that picture will actually come this month. I know... don't look at the rumor boards, don't pay attention to crap that people spew out on those boards... but these rumors are the only thing I have to hold on to. Our agency is very closed lip, just for this reason, but it is frustrating. Oh, I haven't said what the latest rumor is: apparently the CCAA is moving... okay that part has been a rumor for months now. BUT supposedly they are now actually in the move phase. This Move can take any where from 1 to 3 weeks, and referrals will not be sent out till the move is complete. Now, why should I really expect anything less? I shouldn't even be the least bit frustrated, what is a few more days / weeks at this point???? So, it feels like a lifetime, I know it isn't. So, I shouldn't have told everyone, HOPEFULLY we will have Kyra's picture at Paul's Birthday Party. At least I said HOPEFULLY. So, it is one more stupid "goal" date that I made up in my head that we didn't meet. In the scheme of things, it won't matter. We will get the referral and the picture of our angel, when it is time to get it. We will travel when it is time to travel (don't worry I am sure there will be some kind of delay there...) Darn that North Korea thing going on right now, making me quite the nervous Nellie. You know I am secretly, 'k not so secretly praying, that this post is being written in haste, and at the end of this month we will see our baby, and I can look back at this post and just laugh... But I am not me without having something that is totally out of my control, to worry about! ~Until Next Time~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UPDATE: our agency did confirm that the CCAA will be moving for the next few weeks, hence it "may" slow down referrals and TA'S a bit this month!! ARGH! Also, there is a nasty rumor that one of the providences that our agency uses may be lengthening the time for their adoptions. Hopefully that is just one nasty rumor. I couldn't imagine being away from PAUL longer... Not to mention Grandma(s) and Grandpa may go crazy with Paul for that long. (let's just say we would be pushing 3 weeks...) But we are not going to put any thought into this rumor yet, as we don't know where we are going, and why freak out the parents before we need to!!
Until Next time.. waiting patiently.....

addendum

2006-07-12T20:17:00.000-05:00

okay, just checked the "rumor" site. there are a few rumors going now... but I don't like any of them, and since I am remaining positive, I am not going to freak out right now... they just seem to talk in circles anyways... so for now... UNTIL NEXT TIME!

July 12th and no rumors

2006-07-12T19:49:00.000-05:00

Well, of course all the boards are silent to any rumors this month. Why would I expect anything less! But I am not going to let it get me down... because as I stay positive, we are NEXT!

So for this post... I will just say we are waiting patiently. We are staying very busy this summer. Paul is keeping us on our toes to say the least. We have had some power stuggles. YES with an almost 3 year old, power struggles do occur. Potty training is still slow going. and we are having a difficult time deciding do we send him to pre preschool this year, or wait till next year. he will be just turning 3 next month, so he will be very young in the class, and I am not too sure he is completely ready. He is very smart, that's not the problem. It is hard to put our finger on it. We will be deciding in the next month what to do... a ton can happen in a month... like actually get our referral! Unfortunately we don't think we will have our referral before FTIA'S reunion. (It is next weekend). Last year when we went, we just got our LID, this year, we will just still be waiting. But we are totally looking forward to it! We have had a blast ever year, and I am sure this year will be no different.

Well, next time I promise to post some pics of Paul... Let's face it, he's my pride and Joy, even if he is a complete challenge! Maybe you guys can help me decide what picture to submit to FTIA for their calendar!
~Until Next Time~

MY First POST

2006-07-06T11:18:00.000-05:00

I hope I do this right....... Just some quick words!

First, I would like to tell Sandy that "I LOVE YOU" and that I'm a very happy and a lucky man.

I'm very blessed to have you and "the boy" in my life. We are 3 now but soon to be 4 in just a short time. I am very excited for what's to come!

This is all for now, but you will hear more from me, so this is a good Start

- bye for now -

12 Months and well you know... STILL COUNTING!

2006-07-05T21:26:00.000-05:00

12 Months ….
52 weeks…..
365 days………
8,760 hours…….
525,600 minuets……
8,631,536,000 seconds……………. (If I did my math right, never was good at that!)

Any way you look at it; the wait has been unbearably long! Yet, we hit our one-year mark of waiting for our angel from China, and we wait a bit longer. But I remain uplifted and positive that this will be the month that we see her face and our dreams of becoming a family of four will happen! It will happen as God plans but I have a wonderful feeling that this will finally be “our” month. I feel that our “5-6” month wait will end just shy of 13 months. I believe that at Paul’s 3rd birthday party we will be showing family and friends pictures of Kyra. I know that life is quickly changing for us.

For now, I leave you with the words of a song I listen to every day… I found it a while back, and it has just become such a song of reflection for me. A song that I get lost in my thoughts of our daughter and the future we have with her and our son….

“We Thought You’d Be Here by Now” - BY Wes King

We thought you'd be here by now
Your mother and I
We're praying through our tears that somehow
We might hear your sweet cry
Have we waited too long
It's getting harder to be strong
Is there something we've done wrong

But if you like dancing
I'll make it rain rhythm and rhyme and melodies, child
And if you like dreaming
Your mother will make your imagination run wild
Somehow, we thought you'd be here by now

We have a room just for you upstairs
It's right down the hall
So we'll be close should you ever get scared
We'll come when you call
It's a room full of stories
Waiting to be told
Longing to behold

And if you like laughing
I'll paint you a circus of smiles and Ferris wheels, dear
And if you like dreaming
Your mother will fly you to worlds both far and near

Somehow...
I never knew that silence
could make me so deaf
I never knew that I could miss someone I've never met
Miss someone I haven't met yet

We'll be waiting.....

~Until Next Time~

Dear Sweet Daughter - by Gayle Leubecker

2006-06-29T20:34:00.000-05:00

Dear Sweet Daughter

As a girl I had a common dream, to be a mom someday.

My baby would have eyes of blue and hair the hue of hay.

But now my dreams have been transformed.

New visions fill my head.

Now the tresses that I long to stroke are raven black instead.

And in my dreams those eyes are not so big or blue or round.

Now in my dreams they're almond shaped and colored cocoa brown.

And in my dreams my arms can stretch across enormous seas.

They reach half-way around the world and hold you close to me.

As you grow in your birthmother’s womb, carefully knit together,

you're also growing in my heart, where you will stay forever.

And in my dreams the moment that your birthmother says good-bye,

I'll be right there to comfort you and hold you as you cry.

Our features may not look alike; we're different as can be.

But still I know the Father has created you for me.

And though I've not yet seen your face, or held your tiny hands,

and though we're half a world apart in very different lands,

I'll be right there to get you just as soon as God allows.

But ’til He says the time is right I give to you this vow.

I'll pray for your protection every day on bended knee.

For God to hold you in His arms, until you're here with me.

by Gayle Leubecker

Prenatal Care...

2006-06-28T20:19:00.000-05:00

As a person that has had very limited experience with pregnancy and the importance of prenatal care... we have learned first hand what happens with the lack of possible prenatal care. Paul loves brushing his teeth. That is probably one daily ritual he actual participates in. He went to the dentist for his first official cleaning last month and did wonderful. However, during the visit the dentist noticed he had a few cavaties that he wanted us to get checked out. (we went to a family dentist, he sent us to a pediatric dentist). So we had our appointment today. Well, let’s just say he does not have a few cavities. He has SEVERAL. To make it worse they are not little cavity, the ones in the front of the mouth are big. I mean really big. Now, I know you are saying but these are his baby teeth, what is the big deal? Well, apparently it is a huge deal. So the Dr. recommends getting the teeth filled, and the ‘bad’ ones to be capped and oh yea, have nerve treatments. (Paul complains when he eats cold food, saying it hurts) You have to understand something; I have never had a cavity or anything. In the past two years I had my wisdom teeth out, and that was a HUGE ordeal for me. So when it comes to dental concerns, everything is HUGE to me. But, don’t think the Dr. insists we get this done… he did give us options. Let’s see here if I can recap them…
1. Do nothing, and have the teeth he has rot away… hmm that sounds like an excellent idea, NOT! He is not even three! Teeth aren’t to fall out till he is six or seven!

2. Pull his front teeth out… Well, sure he has already lost one tooth, darn toy he fell over. But um, no upper teeth at all? I don’t thinks so. Again, long time with out teeth and that doesn’t account for cavities in the back of the mouth!

3. We could have multiple visits to the dentist and use laughing gas each time and fill the teeth, do capping and have nerve treatments. Dentist did say this is a viable option, since he does wonderfully at the dentist and he loves brushing teeth. But he will remember the occurrences, and the likelihood of him having a HORRIBLE experience is very high. So, with predisposition to poor teeth condition and the fact that he will need to see the dentist regularly I am worried about this option as well.

4. Go to children’s hospital, use a local anesthesia and have all dental concerns (for now) corrected. Not remember the procedures, and move forward from here. BINGO. I think we will take this option.

Thankfully we have dental insurance and the cost of 3 or 4 would be the same in that regard. We just need to make sure our medical insurance will cover the hospital anesthesia etc. Now don’t get me wrong, I hate the fact that Paul has to be “put under’ but I am afraid this is just the beginning of a long history of dental issues, so I don’t want him to have a horrible experience and NEVER return to the dentist.

When the good Dr. was looking in Paul’s mouth, I was explaining to him that we do not know about Paul’s history prior to him being six months old… and his response, was “that explains a lot…” where he couldn’t say definitely No prenatal care = these problems. He said there definitely a good correlation to the two. So, I am trying to get over the fact that I feel like a horrible mom, and realize that we may have absolutely no control over this. I do have to be thankful that if this is the only “problem” we occur because of the lack of prenatal care. We are blessed. Moral of the Story? Take your kids to the dentist and if you are pregnant, take your vitamins and do what pregnant people are suppose to do!

~Until Next Time~

Today...

2006-06-27T20:37:00.000-05:00

..some of our FTIA buddies were able to put faces to the names they were given yesterday. And let me tell you each and every one of the babies are beautiful. Their eyes were so dark and each told it's own story. A story that only they know. But so very soon, a new chapter in their life will occur; one that has a family that adores them, and cherish them, and will hold on to them forever. It brought me so much happiness to see the "posts" about referrals and then pictures today.
I have also been looking at sites regarding the regions where the babies came from. My heart was torn. On one hand babies looked very well cared for, on the other hand.. the image I can not get out of my head, of the cribs the babies sleep in... If I can figure it out I will post a link. but the cribs, are nothing that we see here in America, and actually I never saw one like this in Russia either. I am used to the rooms full of rows and rows of cribs. what I had not seen before were the cribs that had no mattress. Just a board to sleep on. Laying each day and night on a hard board. That breaks my heart! Paul in his orphanage had a little mattress, it wasn't anything to write home about, but it was something. From the pictures I see, the children in China do not. Another thing that amazes me, Russia, is very strict about what you can and can not publish prior to adoption, from what I gather China is not. There are pictures of children in the Orphanges, crib rooms etc. In Russia we were not allowed to take pictures of other children. I am sure I am going to make a lot of comparisons of the two countries. But I have to try hard not to do that. There is absolutely no comparing Russia, China and America. we are three individual countries.
I do have to say the rest of June has gone so very slow. I can not believe it is not JULY yet. I shamefully admit I have already started searching for rumors. Now I am realistic and KNOW that nothing won't come out for for a few weeks yet, but I was just fishing. It is nice to fish, and think... believe.. KNOW we will be next. (see that is me being positive again!). Ah well, tonight I will go to bed thinking of what a wonderful son I have at home, the daughter I will have, and the children I just met in a picture....
~Until Next Time~

Congratulations....

2006-06-26T19:03:00.000-05:00

There are so many people we want to wish our heartfelt congratulations to today . I am horrible with remembering everyone, so too all MY FTIA buddies, and JUNE buddies that just received your referrals congratulations!! For the two days of June that was left behind, and My July LID buddies, we are next. I am remaining positive and enjoying the ride. In about a month we will be celebrating! For the next month we will live vicariously through those that are traveling soon and can't wait to see all the new babies!!
~Until Next Time~

ON the Bubble!!!

2006-06-22T20:29:00.000-05:00

We are on the “BUBBLE”!!!! The most amazing thing happened today…….. Referrals were sent from CHINA and they actually went through the 28th of JUNE (2005). SO the rumors were right!!! I am so excited for our agency / blogging buddies, most of them will be getting their referrals early next week. Referrals were sent from China 3:00 A.M EST today and they are on their way to the UNITED STATES! They should be here some time on Saturday, so unfortunately our friends will have to wait till Monday to get pictures of their precious children… BUT who cares, they are here!!!! And GOD willing we will BE NEXT! Truly, unless China wants to be cruel and unusual, which I know they are not, they are the most kind and loving country; we are next, we are next, WE ARE NEXT!!! Did I mention there are only three days ahead of us… I think I did!!! But just incase you have never read this blog before: there is June 29, 30th and the 4th of July in front of us. It appears that there were no referrals from the 1st – 3rd of July (darn).

So break down what does this all mean: referrals should be here for June 16 – 28th, 2005 early next week. Then in about 30 ish days referrals should be given out again and we *should* be included (GOD WILLING). About 4 weeks after the referral we will get travel approval (TA) and then about 3-4 weeks after that we will travel and bring home little KYRA LYNN.

Nothing can ruin my mood. Not work, nothing! So watch out blogging world, then next few months I will be a mess. (okay I know, so what will be different from now!) I am sure I will feel it is the slowest month ever. BUT bear with me. 5 months of paper work, 12 months waiting… and a life time of wanting children will do this to a girl. And Please do not get me wrong, I absolutely adore my life, and my son Paul, but this adoption has been one hell of a ride, and I know it is no where near being over. But I am taking this last step with total optimism and I am not going to let delays or set backs get me down any more. (okay if we have a delay or set back remind me of this blog….) For today, I am happy and excited that we are finally becoming that family of four!

Ah and I do have to say one more thing.. .if you want to spend a day in the life of an “adoptive mother to be” check out the site unexpected miracles. (on my blog roll). L. has the most amazing knack to say what we *adoptive* mothers to be are feeling. We may not be physically pregnant, but I dare you to challenge any one of us to say we are not as attached to a child that we do not know, as a woman is to her unborn child. We may not give birth, but that child grows with in our heart just the same! And we will go through anything to bring our children home! God bless all parents, especially those that were touched by the amazing thing we call adoption!

~Until next time~

Finally a rumor I can live with :-)

2006-06-19T20:21:00.000-05:00

I unfortunately did not have time to “blog” yesterday, so I did not get a chance to wish my dad, husband, and all father’s out there, a very HAPPY father’s day. Paul is blessed to have such a wonderful father and Grandfather.

Now, as I type this, I can’t even believe I am thinking it… let alone typing it. The Rumors this month has been GREAT! Rumor has it that referrals will go through the 28th of JUNE… that means only 6 days ahead of us! 6!!! 6!!! UM, do you want to hear the BEST part of that??? There are very few if any people Logged in July 1-3…. Now, trust me, my heart is extremely guarded and I know the definition of rumor. SO I know it isn’t fact. But for the first time in MONTHS I am starting to believe we will see pictures of our daughter by the end of next month / beginning of August. On my ticker I have says: hopeful referral by END of August. IF the current Rumors hold true it may be sooner than that. Oh, I am so hopefully referrals come out soon. I have a ton of buddies that are waiting anxiously for “the Call.” AND those that just got their referrals last month, already got their TA’s (travel Approval). All the sudden it feels real. I know it has been real for the 344 other days of this wait… but WOW. I have no idea how a pregnant person feels their last month before delivering, but I feel like I am going to jump out of my skin. I can hardly focus on anything, other than the rumor site and message boards. The anticipation has been so great for so long I think I may just fall apart once our referral does actually come. With Paul it was so different. We weren’t expecting a referral for 3-6 months and received one in a month. We didn’t have time for all this anticipation, or frustration. For now, I am going to enjoy the rumors, and pray that maybe just maybe they are true!

~Until Next time~

Thrill Seeker!

2006-06-17T20:58:00.000-05:00

You guessed it! Paul loves roller coasters! Okay, no not the “analogy” types… the real ones! Yesterday was a huge day in a 2 ½ year olds life. We went to PARAMOUNT KINGS ISLAND. Bob took the day off and I took a ½ day, we packed the car and went to PKI. Paul’s eyes were HUGE when we walked in. He could hardly contain his excitement. I could hardly hold back the tears, thinking my baby is growing up. I remember the first time I went to an amusement park, about his age, and had the exact same reaction. Needless to say, we had a wonderful exhausting time. First we went to the water area and caught some waves in the kiddy land… then it was off to the rides and a parade and then more rides. And of course it all ended with Fireworks. Paul says his favorite was the purple roller coaster. This morning he wanted to go back… Ummm, I don’t think so. Yes it was a wonderful time. But Oh MY GOODNESS it is expensive. I thought it was expensive when I was younger, but let’s just say that was nothing compared to yesterday. We will definitely leave PKI to special occasions. I hope to post pictures tomorrow of the trip.
~Until Next Time~

Roller Coaster Rides

2006-06-13T20:17:00.000-05:00

Roller Coaster Ride…. Yup, that’s how my life feels right now, like a roller coaster. There are times that are smooth sailing, other times I feel like I am holding on for dear life and yet other times I feel like the climb up the hill will never ever end. The sad thing is that can all happen in one day. Right now the hill in front of us feels like it is never ending. I can see the top of it, but we just can’t seem to reach it. Actually at times, we slip backwards a few steps and need nudges to get moving again. One nudge this past week was; we got our appointment time for our re-fingerprinting. So, that will be all up to date again. We are saying prayers that we will be in the US Consulate by November 12th so we don’t have to redo any more paper work. That is the magical date for lots of our paper work. I keep on thinking we have to be getting close to the end of the ride. But for the time being it feels like endless. I guess I just can’t wait to get on that next “ride” and I am frustrated with this one. I want to start enjoying ourselves again and stop living each month by when the next batch of referrals will come out. I try hard not to focus on that, but the only person I am kidding is my self. I wish I could give up the “Rumor Queen” but it is an addiction… I wish I could say I don’t hang on every word of complete strangers that I have met through this adoption experience. But again the fact is, I hang on every word, praying just praying one of these days they will be right. But alas, I know we have at least two – three more months before our referral… So my dear readers (if there are any) I do promise you some day there will only be happiness on this board. And actually there is a lot of happiness, I just at times over shadow it with wallowing in my own self pity!

On to better news: This past weekend we had a fabulous time with family and friends. Saturday we celebrated my nephew’s 8th birthday. We started by taking the kids to the Movie “CARS”. Interestingly Caleb fell asleep the first half, Paul fell asleep the second half… Leah and the adults stayed up for the entire movie. After the movie we headed back to our house for a cookout and our neighbors joined us! All had fun. Then on Sunday we got to have a rainy picnic at Grandma Judy’s house. An added treat was: Aunt Laura was in town from Arizona. Paul enjoyed playing with his cousins and seeing Aunt Laura, we just hope next time Uncle Jay could come with her. And we miss Aunt Lynne deeply. Hope to see both of you soon!

Praying that some more friends get their referrals soon…….

~Until Next time~

11 Months Pregnant....

2006-06-05T17:47:00.000-05:00

.... Enough Said!

~Until Next Time~

Milestones...

2006-05-31T19:47:00.000-05:00

Today was a big day in Paul's world... he went to his first OFFICIAL dentist appointment. I say official, because when he was roughly one he fell on a toy, and knocked a tooth loose, so I took him to the dentist for that. Only for him to lose the tooth shortly after bringing him home... Anyways, on to today, Paul did wonderfully! He seemed to really enjoy getting his teeth cleaned. He also enjoyed helping the tech. She said he was her best patient of the day (I think that was a slam on me, as I was her patient right before Paul). Paul also got to enjoy wathing cartoons as he got his teeth cleaned. Now, I don't remember having flat screen tv's in our dentist office as a child! It is pretty cool though, they can pull up your x-rays on the tv as well, and show you close up what they are talking about. For instance, I am proud to say I had no cavaties like I thought and they show you by pulling up your xray on the tv. That was the good news, the bad: apparently I have become quite the tooth grinder... No more ice chewing or hard candy for me. But I digressed, anyway they could pull up my x-ray on the tv and tell me all kinds of things. It was pretty cool... for a dentist.... anyways. My point was, PAUL did WONDERFULLY! Oh, but one thing: you know how they tell you not to give your children milk or anything after you bursh their teeth.. THEY MEAN THAT. working on some issues there, but it is an easy fix!
After we got home things pretty much fell apart. Let's just say, Paul must be pretty limber. Good thing the stairs are carpeted, and he had what appeared to be a safe landing. I, on the other hand, would be in traction for a month if I went down the stairs like he did. Okay, after the tears and realizing he was okay. My little trooper states, and I do Quote "That was fun, I am going to try that again!!!" Ah,I don't think so! So, after that we have been having quiet time, and Paul and Daddy are currently watching "Chicken Little" for the 100th time. I think I am going to join them.
~Until Next Time~

Memorial Day Weekend and no CAMERA!!!!

2006-05-30T19:23:00.000-05:00

I understand that sometimes when a woman is pregnant she becomes forgetful. WELL apparently it is rubbing off on me. We had an absolutely wonderful weekend and do I have a picture to show!?!? Of course not. Three days with Paul and three days of me forgetting the Camera. Where to begin? Friday Night Paul had a very special evening with Grandma and Grandpa. THANK YOU so much for that! Bob and I had date night. We almost forgot how to act when we didn't have to listen to Disney music, and we went to a REAL movie. Okay so I fell asleep in the theater, but it was only a cat nap! Then bright and early Saturday Bob picked Paul up. We chilled out for part of the afternoon, then I took Paul to his first ever graduation party (Congratulations Caleb Flum). Now there was some confusion on Paul's part, because he thought it was Caleb his cousin, and didn't understand why he wasn't there. Anyways! Then we had a cook out with our neighbors and some friends Saturday evening. We had a wonderful time and dinner was fabulous (Thank you Mantel's). The men and children played outside, while us women sat around the table, drank some wine, and ate all the dessert (great Ice-cream Pie Val-val). On Sunday and Monday we spent time at the pool. Paul loves to swim and we had a blast enjoying ourselves in the nice hot weather. But this post wouldn't be complete without telling you about Sunday evening: We had a squirt gun fight with Grandpa as the instigator . Everyone was drenched but enjoyed ourselves immensely especially when Paul would con someone out of their fully loaded squirt gun. He was always kind enough to give you his... empty. He would yell now everyone get "Grandpa" and start belly laughing as he squirted you right between the eyes. It was so wonderful to put work behind us for three days.... made it very hard to come back to work, and made me dream of a day when I didn't have to work. Weekends put things into perspective for me. where my priorities need to lay, and how important our family and friends are to us. without their support we would not be get through "Wait" nearly as well as we have. I thank each and everyone of you guys. I know we don't say it enough, but you all are appreciated and kept in our prayers!
Until Next Time!

9 days closer...

2006-05-24T18:50:00.000-05:00

"The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before September 30, 2005. The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before June 15, 2005."

We have only 25 days of "Log In's" before ours. So that should translate in to, oh, about three-four more months of waiting till we see a picture of our little treasure. Basically we have gone from thinking we would travel in the winter, to believing I was going to have my summer off with our kids, to back thinking we will be traveling in the winter. hmm... seems like we have gone full circle. Here's praying to a quick turn around and another batch of referrals early in JUNE~
~Until next time~

Loss of Control

2006-05-17T15:31:00.000-05:00

I am tired of not being in control of this situation. I hate not knowing when we may know something. I am just frustrated. I hate living each month by how many referrals will come. I know it won't be this month, there is no way, but after this months referrals that just brings us closer to ours. I AM TIRED OF SOUNDING LIKE A BROKEN RECORD! So instead today... I am going to share a picture or two or three of Paul. someone that brings me the greatest joy in life. Hey did I mention that he passed his swiming lessons.. that's the good news, the bad he isn't old enough to go to the next class. Has to be three.. oh well. I am so proud of him. He was one of the youngest (if not the youngest) to pass the class. That's my little fish. I will have him on the swim team soon vs. later.
Until the next time~

Happy Mother's Day

2006-05-14T08:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's day to those MOM'S out there..... I hope you have a wonderful, Blessed day with your children, or dreaming about the child you will have very soon! A very special Happy Mother's Day to my cousin Sean and his wife Pam. They are the proud parents of TWINS as of last Wednesday. CONGRATULATIONS on bringing Gwen and Connor into this world! They are beautiful! And for all my June and July LID buddies, our little ones are still growing in our hearts, but next year, they will be here celebrating with us! LOVE YOU GUYS!

Also there is a person I think of often (but especially on this day), and only have warm thoughts of... I want to thank her for giving me the best gift in the world... Paul. GOD BLESS YOU!

~Until Next time~

10 Months and Still "Pregnant"!

2006-05-04T20:01:00.000-05:00

Ah, May 5th marks 10 months of official waiting for Baby Kyra. That does not include the 5 months of paper work that we did prior to our "wait." The good news is we shouldn't have too many more months to go. The operative word there is SHOULDN'T. Amazingly rumors for May have already began. I am not putting too much weight in them yet, as it is way to early to know what the CCAA will do this month. The one and only thing I know is we won't be getting our referral, but more of our friends will be, so that will be fun to watch.

Paul is doing wonderful in swimming lessons this time around. He listens to his instructor. Yes, LISTENS. I know shocked me as well. Actually, yesterday, I didn't even get in the water with him for the first half of the class. HE DID GREAT! I am so proud of him. Paul is also enjoying the warmer weather. Needless to say we spend a ton of time outside riding his bike, taking walks and playing with any type of ball imaginable.

well, heres to another month of dreaming of our little one in China.... Knowing someday it will be our turn.

~Until next time~

REFERRALS... well at least some.

2006-04-27T20:03:00.000-05:00

ah, another batch of referrals... and this time we have some of our FTIA JUNE BUDDIES receiving information on their babies. This brings a HUGE smile to my face. It makes it real, that people we know are getting their referrals. The fact that CCAA referred from May 31st through June 6th... does not. But hey at least it is a whole week this time. The longer the wait is, the more I procrastinate and the more I feel like I am not prepared. There is so much I still need to do, but keep on telling myself, ah, I have time. Well the one thing I need to do, and do now, is get our appointment to be refingerprinted. They will be expiring soon, so will have to bite the bullet and get that done. I am crossing my fingers our other paper work does not expire... or this whole thing could get REALLY expensive. I also need to start getting "gifts" for our trips. So anyone that has BTDT and reads this, suggestions are welcomed. I have no idea what to buy.

Here are some pictures of my two biggest loves in my life. Bob and Paul. I know I don't tell Bob enough, but he is by far the best father/husband I could ever ask to have for Paul/me. He is amazing. He is right there doing all the hard work and he and Paul have such a wonderful relationship. I get so wrapped up in Paul, work and this adoption, I think I forget to tell my husband how much he means to me and how treasured he is. I honestly don't know what I would do without bob. He is my rock, my best friend, my love!!
~Until Next time~

To our baby Kyra..

2006-04-21T22:13:00.000-05:00

Someone is Waiting
by Carolyn Martin

Somewhere, someone is waiting. Though I can't see your face I know your heart'
Cause God has knit us together
Even though we're far apart
And until you can be here safe in my arms
I will trust
That somewhere, someone is holding you close
And keeping you warm.
My thoughts, my prayers are for you Father, love her, protect her
I know you do
And until that perfect timing
When our hearts and eyes will meet
I will rest knowing that You are there I will trust
That somewhere, someone is holding you close
And keeping you warm.
If time could stand still
Our love would bridge the ocean
But know that until then
That even an ocean, can't keep me from you
Hold on, little one, hold on...
And until you can be here safe in my arms
I will trust
That somewhere, someone is holding you close
And keeping you warm.

Belanich's World...

2006-04-21T20:06:00.000-05:00

I really don't know what my problem has been lately. I have been in my own little world and not wanting to Blog... I should as this is my journal to baby Kyra, but I get too depressed thinking of how I long for her to be home with us. I know we are on our downward swing now, but I would be lying to say this wait is not killing me. I try to tell myself I would be better understanding if we knew from the beginning how long the wait was. But who am I kidding, I would be no different then I am now. Living my life by waiting for the next batch of referrals to see how far they get, checking the rumor mill a zillion times a day.

The very exciting news, though, some of our FTIA friends will MOST DEFINITELY get their referrals in the next week. I can not wait to see their children's beautiful faces!

We did have a wonderful BLESSED EASTER. We were with our family and had a fabulous day. Paul played with his Belanich Cousins until he crashed sound asleep. He absolutely has a blast with them. He loved looking for Easter Eggs. Although, it took a while as he had to open each egg as he found them, and he was equally surprised as to what was in each and every egg. He would say "wow! I really love this, I really do..." Paul also became a pro at coloring Easter Eggs. He would drop an egg in the dye, and then would say "ah no, not again" when it was cracked. Unfortunately those pictures are on my parent's camera. Grandma Judy brought all the boys Easter Baskets. She also brought one for Baby Kyra. Needless to say I cried like a baby. She said she bought the basket last year, thinking that by this time we would for sure have her home. I have placed her basket in her room... waiting for her.

Some other exciting news: I am going to do some moonlighting for our homestudy agency. I have been job shadowing and it is safe to say: I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is such a wonderful feeling to help families through the adoption process. I remember the feeling I had the first time Heather, our homestudy social worker, came to our house. I was scared to death. But once I realized that she was there to help us, I calmed right down. I love the thought that I am going to help bring families together. The agency only does International adoption, so I am actually pretty well versed in the process.

Say a Prayer for our Neighbors tomorrow. Paul is going on his first sleep over (at a non family member's house). See, Bob got us tickets to Faith Hill and Tim McGraw concert. Thinking for sure one of our parents would be willing to take Paul over night. Little did we know that it happens to be the exact same day that my parents leave for Myrtle Beach (have a wonderful time Mom and Dad, bring a wind chime home for me) and that his Mom would be at a wedding in Cleveland. So our neighbors came to our rescue. Talk about being forever indebt to them! They have three girls that we spend a ton of time with. I know Paul is in good hands, but boy he can be a handful! I pray he behaves himself! He has a firetruck sleeping bag to sleep in. (Thank you Caleb for letting Paul borrow it!) He is very excited about tomorrow and keeps asking when he gets to go! Bob and I are very excited about tomorrow too. It has been a while since we have been out on an date. Last weekend our date night consisted of taking Paul to his first ever big screen movie, "The Wild". Paul did fabulous! The Lebanon theater is perfect for a child his age. We are going to get to Columbus in time for a nice dinner and then the plan is to go out after the concert. I can bet on the fact I will be too tired, and will be the party pooper. I will just want to get a good night sleep, and it will be so weird to do so without Paul coming to our bed at least once through the night.

Okay, I guess you can say once I got started I got on a roll.... I am going to end this now. Hope everyone is having a wonderful Spring... Kyra, we are coming to you soon baby... You are are so loved!

Until next time~

Firetrucks, Aquarium and an Easter Egg Hunt....

2006-04-09T19:03:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how long it has been since the last post... time simply slips by. Needless to say it has been a busy couple of weeks. a few weekends ago we we went up to spend some time with my brother. We took Paul to Uncle Rob's fire station. It was quite interesting, Paul took it all in, however would not go near or in the fire trucks. He told us how much he loved the station but we really couldn't tell because of his lack of wanting to go near the trucks. Well the next morning he confirmed he loved the station... he woke up exclaiming "I loved the firetrucks, but I am too little to drive..." ah that's my boy! Last weekend we took Paul to the Aquarium in Newport Kentucky. We went with our neighbors and their kids. The kids had a great time. And they were quite cute holding hands while they walked through. Paul was in heaven. Paul just loved the sharks and still talking about them. This weekend Paul went to his first Easter Egg Hunt. All I can say about that is: it was FREEZING! However we did enjoy our time with "Aunt" Sara. "Aunt" Sara came down for the weekend, and Paul enjoys playing with her. And Bob and I enjoyed convincing Sara she could not live without an IPod. So we stayed up to all hours of the night listening and downloading good music!

Onward to adoption news...... I would love to say we have news, but we don't. We are at, however, the NINE month wait. Our agency is now saying the wait is 10-11 Months. I am thinking 12-13 months because that is just our luck. But I am going to look on the bright side... that just gives us more time to figure out the whole potty thing with Paul. Like that is going good... NOT.

Until next time~

Another batch of referrals... all 5 days worth!?!?!

2006-03-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

First I would like to sincerely thank everyone that asks about how things are going in China and have we heard anything yet. I am overwhelmed by the support and love that we are given by family, friends and coworkers. The update this week, quite frankly SUCKS! (and trust me that was sugar coated). Referrals will be out early next week (if not this weekend). Now mind you cut off for referrals last month was May 25th. This months cut off: MAY 30th! Yup that is right it has taken the CCAA an entire month to give 5 days worth of referrals out. I feel horrible for those with a LID of May 31st, which FTIA has several. All we keep hearing is that there are not enough "paper ready" children. I am starting to wonder what the heck does that mean. All in all it will take four months to complete one month of LID'S. If this trend stays true, we will get our referral, oh about July, August or probably September, and that is being extremly optimistic. Which means, the shopping spree I went on a few weeks back.... I am taking back to the store for a refund. Just reminds me why I didn't shop (much) before I got Paul's referral.

IF I am moody or distant please don't take offense. And, if you can, ask how are you? Or ask about the weather, instead of when is your referral coming or do you know anything yet?? Ask anything,but when?? I would GREATLY appreciate it: because I don't know when the referral is coming, I am tired of guessing, and I would just be wrong anyways! Please know I don't mean to be nasty or anything, just honest and extremely frustrated.
> I am trying my hardest to be positive. For instance, I think to myself: that just gives me that much more time to lose weight before we go... too bad I am eating donuts like there is no tomorrow and I am looking forward to gorging myself with chocolate. Not to mention I can't wait for "girls" night tomorrow night. Ladies,don't mind me if I cry in my glass of wine. But to be honest my positive sunny disposition has gone right out the door. I am finding very little to be happy about our wait. I know it is out of our agency's hands, it is out of our hands, it is all in China's hands. But darn it, if it doesn't make life nearly impossible to plan for. It is funny in our adoption studies one question asked is "how would you handle unexpected delays?" Well, I am sure I wrote some kind of fluffy answer I thought they would like to hear like: I would just roll with the punches, Yah, NOT. I hate having absolutely no control what-so-ever over the situation. you just sit there blindly waiting for any glimmer of hope that maybe next time you will finally get to see your baby. Maybe just maybe it will be our turn to be blessed and our agency will say those four little words we have be so longing for: "we have your referral." The truth of the matter is: My heart and soul aches because my baby is somewhere out there in an Orphanage not getting the love and affection that I would give her. She should be home with us, where we can love her and give her the undivided attention she deserves. Baby Kyra, mommy loves you and says prayers for you every day that God watches over you. I know he does, and he will keep you safe. I can't wait to hold you and kiss your sweet face. It is absolutely amazing how much love I have for a child that is just a dream. A dream that some day......... will be a reality. The million dollar question is: WHEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Until next time~

The first FULL day of Spring & Early Learning Registration

2006-03-21T18:12:00.000-05:00

Ah, it is the second day of spring, after a mild winter... you would anticipate a warm day, right? WRONG!! It is cold and snowy of course. And do you know why it is cold and snowy? Well that is because starting at 5:00 A.M. today, my neighbor and I stood in line to get our darling little children signed up for Early Learning School. We got their a little before 5:00A.M. and we were number 6 and 7 in line. There were Father's that had been there since 3:00 A.M. Ah yes, the wonderful first come, first served theory. Yes it is a very good and fair way to do things, but did I mention it was only 28 degrees (not including wind chill) and it started to snow around 6: 30ish. Did I also mention for about every 1 woman that stood out in the below freezing snowy weather, there were 2-3 men. YES, that is right, the men totally outnumbered us women to sign their little darlings up for school. Of course I forgot my camera so I couldn't get a picture of it. We really should count our blessings though, it was supposed to start snowing last night and it didn't, and they opened the doors a little after 7:00 so we could stand in the inside of the building. Registration did not officially start till 8:30 A.M. but they started about 8:15 A.M. All in all it was a successful morning. Paul is in the afternoon early learning class and I am finally warming up. Thankfully I had my wonderful neighbor with me, or the time would have gone much slower than it did. Now the only problem is: we have to have Paul potty trained by the first day of class... NO PRESSURE THERE! Any suggestions are much appreciated. Until next time ~

Can I REALLY become a soccer mom??

2006-03-19T19:53:00.000-05:00

That's right! Paul is taking a soccer class! It is an instructional class at the Y teaching 2 1/2 and 3 year olds the basics of soccer. Too bad I don't know the first thing about soccer. I did get out of the class from the instructor "THE BALL STAYS ON THE GROUND!" Paul did wonderfully. He does a great job kicking the ball across the room. He has a ton more coordination then his mommy. His buddy Josh is in the class with him so that made it extra fun. The best part is we went out to breakfast after the class. This soccer thing isn't soo bad afterall.
Aside from Paul taking his class, I decided WW (affectionately called FAT CAMP) was not enough for me any longer. So, this past week I started water aerobics. I only have one question: am I supposed to hurt three days later???? I could barely walk for the next two days after class!!! It will be good for me. I need to exericise if I ever think I am going to walk any of the Great Wall of China. On that home front, No news... referrals should be coming soon. We just pray that we get half way through June. We did go to dinner with some FTIA travel buddies tonight. As always it was a lot of fun. Bob and Paul had "good fortunes" in their cookies. Bob's said: "The Coming Month shall bring winds of change in your life." Paul's said: "good things are coming to you in due course of time." Mine: well it said something like I enjoy night life. Well that is true... and we are having a girls night next week. So maybe the other two will come true as well!!!
Well, tonight is short, sweet and to the point. have a wonderful night. And sweet dreams of referrals in the mail!

Until next time... Happy Birthday DAD! (well last week, anyway)

watch what you say to a 2 1/2 year old!

2006-03-09T19:50:00.000-05:00

Paul became insistant today that he wanted to go to the Ocean. He keeps on asking if Grandpa will take him to the ocean soon. (Grandma and Grandpa went with us last year). I told him that we will try to go to the ocean after we bring home his sister. (thinking I could buy myself some time, and not thinking that a 2 1/2 year old has concept of time!) So now he keeps on asking if Daddy and Mommy can go to China this weekend and pick up his sissy. then follows it up, can we go to the ocean next week? Paul has a great memory.... and like I said, I wasn't thinking, so now all he is focused on is going to the ocean! I plan on taking Paul to the pool as much as possible this summer. He absolutely loved swimming lessons and loves the water. Maybe when my partents go to Myrtle Beach later next month, I can sneak Paul into their suitcase and he can enjoy the ocean with them. ha haa. I do hope to take the children on a vacation this summer or early fall... but it will all depend on when we get to go to China, and if Bob will have any time left after our trip. ARGH!! I think we are all getting summer fever. The weather hasn't been cold and snowy this winter, but it has been dreary. All paul wants to do is go out and play.

Just wanted to wish Leah Happy Birthday again (today is her actual Birthday) and also wanted to wish Josh Happy 3rd Birthday. He is Paul's buddy! AH yes, and CONGRATULATIONS SARA she just passed her LISW exam!! now she can go for the BIG BUCKS!

till next time watch what you say to your kids, they will hold you to it!

THIS JUST IN!

2006-03-06T07:53:00.000-05:00

I love that China is 12 hours ahead of us.... their website changed while we slept:

"The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before July 31, 2005."

Which means as soon as June applications are matched with babies July will be matched! One more step done!!! Our dossier had no problems! Sigh of relief!

Happy Birthday Leah!

2006-03-05T19:26:00.000-05:00

1. Leah and her Daddy 2. Leah, Caleb and Paul 3. Leah and her new friend Georgia 4. the kids at the party

8 months and still waiting.....

2006-03-05T19:24:00.000-05:00

Today marks 8 months of waiting for baby Kyra. Not to mention the 5 months of paperwork we had to do prior to our wait! Our agency has now moved the wait time to 9-10 months. So we are HOPING for a referral by May. But at this time I don’t even want to speculate. The CCAA hasn’t even gotten through the month of May yet for referrals. Our paperwork is currently in the review room and then it goes to the matching room. Referrals did just come out last week. SO we are very happy for those families, and we do have lots of online buddies that are getting very close to their referral date so we are getting excited for them. A year ago we thought for certain we would be home from China by spring. Now I just hope we get to travel before fall. I have to admit the longer this whole process takes the more depressed I get. I try very hard not to, but I can’t seem to help it. I just want our daughter home with us… I used to think she was born last July. Now I have no idea. I hate not knowing her birthday, what she looks like, if she ate well today, did she sleep well today? Did someone give her an extra hug? I know her caregivers are taking care of her but not like I would. I just want her home!! Before I get myself all down again, onto more exciting news!
My brother, Rob, and his children Caleb and Leah came down this weekend. It is the weekend before Leah’s 6th birthday. So we had a bit of birthday celebration for her. On Saturday we started the afternoon by going to Chucky Cheese. The kids had a wonderful time. And I think an adult or two enjoyed playing skeet ball!
After Chucky Cheese we went home for a much needed nap, and to get ready for the surprise birthday party for Leah. We had our neighbors over, my parents, my Cousin Sean, his wife Pam and Rob and the kids. Leah was very surprised. She kept on saying but my birthday isn’t till next week. But she didn’t seem to mind having two parties. She also made a new friend with Georgia. Georgia and Leah had a great time playing tea party and singing with Leah’s new Karaoke machine!
Aside from a very busy weekend, Paul continues to do well in swimming lessons. Last week he got to lead the group in jumping off the wall! And more excitingly Bob was the one that took him in for swimming lessons~ another first!
~ until next time…..

My little swimmer!

2006-02-24T08:21:00.000-05:00

All I can say is: our son has NO FEAR of Water! Paul and I are currently taking swimming lessons. Each week my little guy gets a little more daring in what he does. This week, he decided that he did not want Mommy to hold onto him any longer. Now Mind you the water is up to my shoulders.... and Paul can not swim. So he kicked, and broke loose momentarily, and down he went... I grab him, and pull him up, and he is laughing, thinking it was great! After a stern lecture he did not do it again, but did insist to pretty much have his face in the water the rest of the class. We are not allowed to use the safety vests because they don't want the parent / child to rely on them. Okay, but it is comforting to have! Needless to say my nerves were temporarily shot, but I am very glad he is learning the basics, so we can be around water. Swimming has been such a part of my life growing up. Spent every summer at the pool or the ocean :-) I just don't want him over confident! Overall he is doing very well with the class. He is always deemed the best splasher (what a privilege). And like I said, he is not afraid to get his face wet! He is going to be like his Uncle Rob and Cousin Caleb, impossible to get out of the water! We spent the last 10 minuets jumping off the wall, while the other kids were going down the slide. At that point in time I was just trying to wear him out by having him climb out of the water onto the wall... Mommy was successful! So overall yet another wonderful week at swimming lessons! Next week I think I will have Bob take him!

Lady Bugs and Thinking Pink!

2006-02-20T20:28:00.000-05:00

AH, I love the color PINK! So I broke down this weekend and started to buy Kyra some clothes!! Like with Paul, I had told myself not to buy anything till we got our referral. You know I was trying to be practical and find out weight, etc, till I bought something. Let's just say girl clothing is soooo much fun to buy!! I didn't go over the top buying. well, at least I don't think I did. Bob may say something different. I also found some bargains for Paul as well, that I will put away for next winter. It is so hard trying to guess what size your child will be the following year! Aside from my shopping spree it was a relatively quiet weekend. We spent time with Grandma and Grandpa both Saturday and Sunday, which Paul just loves doing. Paul loves giving his Grandpa a hard time. who knew a 2 1/2 year old could be just as sarcastic as his grandpa!

In the past two days we have seen two Ladybugs! Paul and I have made wishes for his baby sister to be home soon and then we have sent them free outside. Poor little Buggers are probably frozen outside! Hopefully China will be sending referrals soon. This batch will really help us gauge when we should be expecting our referral. (I have been saying that every month). Let's hope they give referrals through at least part of JUNE! Realistically let's hope they get through all of MAY! I am telling you this wait has been horrible. in two weeks it has been 8 months of just waiting! (just having a bit of a pity party for myself.)

Well it is time to read books with Paul. Good Night and God Bless!

Poem that I ran across....

2006-02-17T12:07:00.000-05:00

For every single heart that yearns
to know a love so pure,
may you find the strength in your soul
to press onward and endure.

For every single heart that lies awake,
each beat filled with emotion,
rocking dreams with empty arms
to be filled near or across the ocean.

For every single heart that dares to hope,
knowing that they are on their own,
the desire for parenthood firmly planted
to love the child who is all alone.

For every single heart that races in fear
wondering what they are in for,
the unknown, the doubts,
the question of what's in store.

For every single heart taking that first step
toward making their dreams come true,
the whole process is worthwhile
when the reality is you.

For every single heart that takes a chance
to find the child their dreams have sought,
to finally breathe again,
when that first glimpse of you is caught.

For every single heart that travels,
across town or over seas,
to finally hold you close,
sitting, having gone weak in the knees.

For every single heart that heals
as we begin our family,
never more to be alone,
now everything is "we".

For every single heart that adopts
in answer to your longing's call,
may the Lord above bless you,
parent, child, and all.
© Ginger King

pictures

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pictures from the week! hope you enjoy!

Panic attacks!

2006-02-14T20:44:00.000-05:00

How am I going to leave Paul for two weeks to go to China!!!

Okay, I am trying to do one of my preplanned panic attacks now, so when the time comes I will have already come up with a solution. All daylong I keep thinking to myself, there is no way I am going to survive being a half a world away from Paul that long. Let alone thinking that after, oh about a day away from us, Paul is ready for Bob and I to be home. He is very much home oriented, we go to his house to play, everyone comes to his house. When we have been out too long, it is “let’s go to my house now.” Now thankfully grandparents all live close and they will have access to our house so they can go any time they like, so Paul can have his familiar things. Paul hopes Uncle Rob comes down and takes him for a few days to give grandparents a break! I know people will be coming and going from our house, I am sure there will even be a party or two there, heck you all know we have the TV, so if there are any good Sporting events, or Nascar on, everyone will be there.… so while you are there feel free to play with the cats, and clean the house J Just kidding! Well sorta!

But how am I going to leave Paul??? Right when he is on the brink of being that terrible two year old everyone warns you about, he turns on his charm and smiles and gives me that great big hug, or he says the funniest thing, and no longer can I be mad. I am sure he is going to do better with the separation that we are. Okay, better than I will do. Bob goes with the flow. He will miss paul, but he won’t be the wreck I will be. We plan on calling, blogging and we are hopefully going to figure out if we can somehow set up video connection from our computer to my parents. I am sure he is going to do better than I am. Thankfully the trip will be busy and Kyra will become our main focus, but I still just can’t imagine being that far away from Paul for that long. Ah, and I haven’t even had the panic attack about CHINA yet. I will never forget Russia… at least there they ate with FORKS! Apparently China is very westernized, and there is a Starbucks on every corner, which would be great if I drank coffee… And it is not like we are going to China alone. We will be with a group the entire time. I just have to get all my panicking out now, so I will be completely focused on our daughter Kyra.

Now, I do have to make a point of clarification, No we have not heard any word on our daughter, nor do we really know when we will hear anything, like I said I am trying to have pre planned panic attacks so I don’t do them all at once we get out referral!

Until I write again! Many more panic attacks I am sure!

Sandy

Never a dull moment at the Belanich's

2006-02-10T10:02:00.000-05:00

February 10, 2006 (where does the time go!!!)

I am behind in posting! Time just flies by, and before you know it, another day has past, and I still have not updated the Blog.
Well, we have had a lot of fun this past week. It started with Last Saturday (February 4th, 2006) Paul’s big day. We spent the morning just being a family of three, and enjoying each other. Then in the afternoon we picked up Grandma and Grandpa Weinmann, and Grandma Judy and we went to the Children’s Museum in Dayton. I believe, officially, we got through the whole thing in about 15 minuets, going from one exhibit to the next. I just knew it would take 5 adults to chase one 2 ½ year old!!! Paul was WILD! But had a blast!!! But we did wind up spending the whole afternoon there, and had a very enjoyable time. Paul’s favorite, as always, were the dinosaurs. Unfortunately this 13 ft long python also fascinated him. Needless to say I still have nightmares about that! We also watched a laser show about amusement parks. It was amazing, you felt like you were actually on the rides. Paul actually did very well with it; I on the other hand, have no desire to go to Kings Island this summer. I had enough with that. After the museum, we went back to grandma and grandpa’s for a much needed nap! Then it was off to our most favorite Pizza joint. MARIONS. Almost the whole family came out for that. Thank you Uncle Rob, Ted, bill, tom and Aunt Heather, for coming out! (Along with TJ, Zack, Mathew, Grandma Judy and Grandma / Grandpa Weinmann.) Paul always has fun with his family! We did miss Aunt Lynne, Aunt Laura, Uncle Jay and Caleb and Leah. We hope some day we all can be together!

Sunday was yet another eventful day. It was Uncle Rob’s Birthday and the super bowl. Again, we all had fun, and well I ate too much! Needless to say the diet thing did not work too well last week.

Tuesday Paul had a big day! He had to get his first X-ray… of his chest! Unfortunately I doubt that will be the only x-ray he ever has. He has had a nasty cough and the dr. wanted to just rule out everything, since he had bronchitis already once this year. Thankfully all came back clear, and we were set to go to Grandma and Grandpa’s Anniversary dinner! CONGRATULATIONS MOM AND DAD 36 Years of Marriage!!! (yet again, more food to eat! My poor diet!)

Thursday evening was the first evening for swimming lessons for Paul and me. We had a blast. Unfortunately as Bob took the first picture, the batteries on the camera died. SO we will have to get pictures next week.

I will upload pictures later to show you excitement from our week!
There are no updates on China, just that with each passing day we ware that much closer to little Kyra. I will share later my worries of becoming a family of four, and Paul’s acceptance of it all!!

Paul then....

2006-02-04T09:47:00.000-05:00

Life in Russia...

Paul now...

2006-02-04T09:34:00.000-05:00

oh how things changed in two years....

Forever Family Day...2006

2006-02-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

FOREVER FAMILY DAY – February 4th, 2006

2 years ago was the last time we walked into baby home number 1 in Novokuznesk Siberia. The day before we were given permission by the Russian Government to officially adopt you and bring you home to the United States with us. At the Orphanage we were quickly ushered into a sterile little room, with a changing table and a mirror. Within Seconds you were brought to us, wrapped in a blanket and with nothing but an old diaper on. Quickly we get out the camera and I give you hugs and kisses… and I stare at amazement at this tiny little baby, my son. It was time for me to dress you for the first time. The nerves got the better of me, and well, the diaper didn’t fit too well when I attempted over and over again to put it on backwards~ Finally after checking you over a million times, and finally getting your diaper on correctly you were dressed in your brand new outfit, (probably the first one you ever owned) and you brand new snow suite. Within minuets, the director and staff at the orphanage were saying good-bye to their little Stepan, and wishing PAUL William a lifetime of happiness with his forever family. The drive home was surreal; the rest of the day from there is a blur. I just remember having this perfect angel in my arms and in my life! Daddy had several busy days when you first came to us. He had to go and get your passport, and travel the rest of the country to do Lord Knows what, and we got to bond and stay in a hotel room… only to be scolded if I dared to open the door and get us some fresh air. I had absolutely no idea what to do from there. Sure I had baby sat a million of times before, but you were my son, my baby, my life… and I did not want to do anything wrong. I tried my hardest to keep to your schedule. To feed you exactly what you were fed, to have you sleep exactly when you were supposed to sleep, play with the similar toys, and keep a similar routine. Well, that quickly went out the door, and instead we did things that were familiar to mommy, and I talked and talked to you, showing you pictures of your family back in the US, we listened and danced to music, we played peek-a-boo and I made silly faces at you. But most of all we enjoyed our time looking out the window…. We had a large window and windowsill in our room. We sat on the sill for hours, and you would look out the window at the children playing below, or men walking to and from work. It seemed to bring you comfort and peace. You sat in my arms so contently just watching the people of Novokuznesk pass us by. I sat holding you so peacefully and contently knowing you were my son. The child I have waited to have for so long.

Since our time in Russia… you have had so many first in your life. Your daddy and I are so very blessed that we have had the opportunity to be there for almost all your firsts. First tooth, first crawl, first sitting up, first step, first time your ran, your first words, all the firsts with food, first time you saw the ocean, first time you ran in the grass, or sand. The first time you touched and smelled a flower, first time you went down a slide, first time you went to the potty (now come on and do it again!!!) There are a million memories that we have created in these short two years.

You have taught me so much as well. You have taught me how a child loves something / someone unconditionally and without judgment. You have taught me that you know exactly when to turn on that smile of yours and charm, and how you can warm anyone’s heart. You have taught me patience. You have taught me to see life through a child’s eye. To see the good in the situations, and realize yes, to have a cookie makes any situation better. You bring me happiness and love. I promise you to always be there for you. I promise to protect and to guide you. I promise you that I will let you be your own person and to grow and explore as you should. I promise to love you unconditionally as you have loved me.

Love you....

Mommy

FTIA MEETING

2006-02-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

We went to a FTIA meeting tonight. Any opportunity we have to talk about Paul and our experience with FTIA and Russia we take. I remember the first time we sat in a FTIA meeting.. I remember walking in, thinking this is really not for us, but we will get the information anyways... during the meeting I thought to myself, there is no way we will ever afford this, then they bring out the families that have already adopted to tell their stories... and I remember thinking maybe we too could have our family completed through adoption. I love attending these meetings and giving other families the hope and a glimmer of what life can be like. You don't have to rich, or powerful, with internation adoption you don't have to compete for a child... you just have to be willing to take that leap of faith into the unknown. I have to admit it has been the best thing Bob and I have done. I can't wait to add Kyra to our family. Kyra... I long for my daughter. I see other "daughters" from China, and my heart just soars with anticipation. I know with each passing day we are that much closer to her. I just have to keep on telling myself that! When does that darn Chinese New Year end, so CCAA can get back to work!!!

ah well, before the ramblings begin, which i feel it may.. i am going to end this, as my thoughts are going in all different directions.

sandy

Happy Chinese New Year!

2006-01-29T20:42:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year's all! It is the year of the Dog, according to the Chinese Calander. We celebrated the New Year by going out with some friends to a Chinese Buffet. Well, okay so it was very westernized... Needless to say I am bringing crackers and poptarts to China with me. We did have a good time... and Paul and Josh had rice from one end of the restaurant to the other. ah well.

For the next two weeks CCAA is closed, so who knows when the next batch of referrals will come in. I guess historically there aren't any referrals given in February. We can only hope that history changes and more referrals will come towards the end of the month! we have about 7 weeks of referrals ahead of us.

Next Saturday is a VERY special day in our lives. It is Paul's second annual adoption day. we are celebrating with pizza at Marion's and going to the Children's Museum. Fun family activities.

Wishing you all a wonderful "New Year" and have a wonderful evening! Good Night Sweet Kyra, Mommy loves you and thinks of you all the time! Can't wait to have you in my arms, and your big brother can't wait to play with you!!

Sandy

Big Boy Bed!

2006-01-24T22:20:00.000-05:00

Oh, what an exciting day! Paul's big boy bed is ready! We are in the process of getting his big boy room finished... it is painted; we still need to put the boarder up and decorate the walls... but Paul is very excited about sleeping in his new bed, we didn't want to wait till the whole room was done. Okay, so when I asked him tonight if he wanted to sleep in his new bed, he did say "no I sleep in your bed'" but we are working on that too! He has helped us through the whole process. He picked out his paint and his boarder. Maybe with a little guidance and very limited choices, but he did have the final decision. Last Saturday, Grandpa picked Paul up so daddy and mommy could paint his room. Now I am trying to convince Grandma and Grandpa to come this weekend, so we can get the boarder up!

Other exciting news for the day: from the CCAA (straight from China) referrals have been sent for those with a LID from April 25th through May 13th. slowly but surely we are getting closer to a referral. China shuts down this Friday night (saturday morning there) until february 4th for their Chinese New Years. (which actually is January 29th) we hope some time in February they will give another batch of referrals.

so until next time... HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Sandy

OUR FIRST BLOG

2006-01-23T20:58:00.000-05:00

Hello all! This is our first attempt at Blogging so please bare with us! first off, I have to apologize for my horrible spelling! Hopefully I will find spell check sooner vs later. anyways. This will hopefully become our communication link to our family and friends during our Journey to China and to provide updates on Paul and his future sister Kyra. So, today's post will get everyone up to speed on our China Adoption. almost a year ago we started the paper chase for our daughter. We have what is called a Log in Date (LID) of July 5th, 2005. What that means, is our paperwork was sent to china and accepted on the 5th. Currently China is placing children with LID in the Month of May. So Essentially we have two months ahead of us. typically the CCAA match 1/2 to full month of referrals each month. so our best guess is we will be getting a referral late March early April. Occassionally China will send out larger batches of referrals, but that has not been happening lately. We can always hope and pray though.

So, in the meantime we have plenty to keep us busy. Namely PAUL. our Siberian Cyclone keeps us on our toes. We are currently working on his Big Boy Room. Paul is very excited about this, and can't wait to sleep in his big boy bed. I only hope he stays there all night, and will end coming into our room in the middle of the night. He insists on sleeping in the middle... ah well, such is life of a parent. We are also quickly approaching a very special day in the Belanich Home. February 4th will mark our 2nd annual family day! Time has flown by since we brought paul home! But more about that will come in the very near future.

for now I am going to end this so I can figure out how to post it to our BLOG! I believe it shows bob email address as the one to respond to, feel free to do that, or you can always email at sbelanich@otterbein.org.

Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy our "Great Journey".

Sandy

Picture 2

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Family Picture

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Family Picture