Can I just give a quick shot-out to all you awesome people who are reading this blog?
The last two-ish weeks, we've paid $5,550 in fees for the adoption. Mind you, we didn't have loads of extra cash stuffed in mattresses in our house. Despite going through a home remodel, plus Adam going out to work for himself (making paychecks less consistent), we knew that starting this adoption when we did was something God was calling us to do.
We didn't know how we were going to come up with the $30,000+ (and still don't completely know), but we do know that our God provides. And He is so great. And it all works in his perfect timing.
We started this process back in January of this year, with enough money to submit our application (wait, actually two applications...) and just kind of let the rest fall into place. Sure, we've definitely been cutting back this year, but we couldn't have done this alone.
From the garage sale, to the t-shirts, to the puzzle pieces (why yes, we do have pieces left) we are so lucky that so many people have asked to help us out in one way or another.
What's incredible about that all? That so far in our adoption journey, we've had to pay around $9,000. And with all of our donations, and profits from the t-shirts and garage sale, we've received roughly $6,000.
Seriously.
We've got a long way to go, but almost 30% of the cost is already taken care of.
I know there are some people that think, "why would you pay so much money to adopt when you can have your own?" or And I don't really have an answer to that question. Just that this little nugget will be ours. This is the family that God has blessed us with. I'll be the first one to admit that it's difficult to imagine our family without a face, heck, even a gender to put with our little one. But our family is built on faith. Because God put a little picture in our minds, we have to trust in Him. Which can be so hard at times. But He makes the rules. And He brings us awesome people like you.
Hebrews 11:1 says Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen. I think that sums things up rather nicely, don't you?
Keep on keepin' on. Thanks so much for taking a step of faith with us and helping our family grow.
Showing posts with label Uganda. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Uganda. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Tiny I600-A Update
I have an itsy, bitsy update from our I600-A.
It probably isn't even worth a blog post. But, what the heck, I'm feeling sassy today.
We received a letter in the mail from the Department of Homeland Security stating that they had received our application (i.e. cashed our check), and would be scheduling an appointment for us to get our fingerprints taken.
And that's it!
Pretty cool though, it just means we're still trucking right along.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
...And It's Off!
It's off! (airplane emoji)
...(What is?)
Our I600-A has officially been shipped to USCIS. PTL
Go ahead, ask me what PTL means.
...(What is PTL)
Side note: I have way too much fun having a conversation with myself.
Praise the Lord. It's a thing I'm trying to get going. I heard a friend use it and couldn't let it go. You should start using it, too. I think I've successfully gotten my mother-in-law hooked. Or maybe she just says it to me. Can you confirm, MT?
Anyway, PTL is obviously just like saying "Praise the Lord", except more refined. You know, sometimes you just don't have enough time for the entire phrase. So you just shoot three little letters. It can even be used in texting, I'd say you could successfully use PTL anywhere you would use LOL. Seriously, think about it.
Personally, I think it has a nice ring to it.
Anyway...back to the purpose of this post: to inform you that our I600-A has been shipped off. So that means we'll wait for that to get approved by USCIS, get some more fingerprints taken, and get started on our dossier. We're told it should take about 4-6 weeks for approval.
This just means we're one step closer.
I also want to take just a moment to say thank you to all of our awesome friends and family who have contributed to our puzzle fundraiser. I never knew people could be so excited about puzzles. Seriously though, puzzles were your least favorite "toy", weren't they? That's why we'll just keep ours between glass. Anyway, your donation is why we were able to send off the I600-A right now. Which is huge.
Okay, before I start rambling about other acronyms or puzzles, I'll stop. Cheers to Thursday, which is basically Friday, which is basically the weekend, and cheers to being one step closer to baby (toddler?) Negrete.
...(What is?)
Our I600-A has officially been shipped to USCIS. PTL
Go ahead, ask me what PTL means.
...(What is PTL)
Side note: I have way too much fun having a conversation with myself.
Praise the Lord. It's a thing I'm trying to get going. I heard a friend use it and couldn't let it go. You should start using it, too. I think I've successfully gotten my mother-in-law hooked. Or maybe she just says it to me. Can you confirm, MT?
Anyway, PTL is obviously just like saying "Praise the Lord", except more refined. You know, sometimes you just don't have enough time for the entire phrase. So you just shoot three little letters. It can even be used in texting, I'd say you could successfully use PTL anywhere you would use LOL. Seriously, think about it.
Personally, I think it has a nice ring to it.
Anyway...back to the purpose of this post: to inform you that our I600-A has been shipped off. So that means we'll wait for that to get approved by USCIS, get some more fingerprints taken, and get started on our dossier. We're told it should take about 4-6 weeks for approval.
This just means we're one step closer.
I also want to take just a moment to say thank you to all of our awesome friends and family who have contributed to our puzzle fundraiser. I never knew people could be so excited about puzzles. Seriously though, puzzles were your least favorite "toy", weren't they? That's why we'll just keep ours between glass. Anyway, your donation is why we were able to send off the I600-A right now. Which is huge.
Okay, before I start rambling about other acronyms or puzzles, I'll stop. Cheers to Thursday, which is basically Friday, which is basically the weekend, and cheers to being one step closer to baby (toddler?) Negrete.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Fundraiser #3: The Puzzle
Dun duh.
Are you ready?
Dun duh.
You've probably heard of the puzzle fundraiser (am I hearing crickets?). If not, here's a onceover.
So we bought a puzzle. It's a 500 piece puzzle and are selling (well not really selling) the pieces for a minimum of a $10 donation. So here's what happens.
So here's how you go can go about buying a puzzle piece (or two or three, or the entire thing...kidding. Am I though?) I'm really liking bullets today.
So let's just say we "sell" all 500 pieces of the puzzle. That's $5,000 right there. Which is pretty darn substantial to our cause. If everyone who buys a piece decides to give $20 instead of $10, that's $10,000.
Isn't it crazy what $20 can do? Now, I don't want to tell you how to live. But what if I challenged you to cut something out of your day, or week, or month. I know this is a common example, but what if you cut out your Starbucks* run once a week (go the other six days, that's cool!), but cut out that $3 once a week. Over the course of, like 3.2454379 weeks, (okay, I'm not a mathematician) that's $10, which would buy you a snazzy puzzle piece! And you can come over sometime and I'll make you a cup o' joe**.
To those who have already donated, thank you. To those that are even considering, thank you.
*or Dunkin', or McDonalds, or DQ...you get the picture
**no pumpkin spice lattes available
Are you ready?
Dun duh.
You've probably heard of the puzzle fundraiser (am I hearing crickets?). If not, here's a onceover.
So we bought a puzzle. It's a 500 piece puzzle and are selling (well not really selling) the pieces for a minimum of a $10 donation. So here's what happens.
- You buy a puzzle piece. Or two, or three. Heck, we'll let you buy us a whole puzzle.
- We write your name on the back of the piece.
- When the puzzle is complete, we'll frame it and put it between two pieces of glass so our child can see the names of everyone who helped bring him or her home. Or maybe it will be a normal puzzle that we put together. (Either way, they get see who was part of their journey).
So here's how you go can go about buying a puzzle piece (or two or three, or the entire thing...kidding. Am I though?) I'm really liking bullets today.
- Click on the donate button on the right (over there) to pay securely through PayPal
- Write a check made out to Adam and/or myself and hand deliver or mail it (email me at negrete.stacy@gmail.com for address details)
- Do the same thing as a check, but with cash!
- Send a donation directly to our church (this is tax deductible). For the address, go to the Donation Information tab.
- Donate to our Go Fund Me page
Isn't it crazy what $20 can do? Now, I don't want to tell you how to live. But what if I challenged you to cut something out of your day, or week, or month. I know this is a common example, but what if you cut out your Starbucks* run once a week (go the other six days, that's cool!), but cut out that $3 once a week. Over the course of, like 3.2454379 weeks, (okay, I'm not a mathematician) that's $10, which would buy you a snazzy puzzle piece! And you can come over sometime and I'll make you a cup o' joe**.
To those who have already donated, thank you. To those that are even considering, thank you.
*or Dunkin', or McDonalds, or DQ...you get the picture
**no pumpkin spice lattes available
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Uganda Updates
Our agency received an alert from the U.S. Embassy in Kampala with regards to security alerts.
Over the past weekend, suspected Islamist al-Shebaab terrorists were arrested in a raid which put a stop to their terror plot and recovered their weapons. The U.S. Embassy reports the threat was countered, though they still remain on alert.
Over the past weekend, suspected Islamist al-Shebaab terrorists were arrested in a raid which put a stop to their terror plot and recovered their weapons. The U.S. Embassy reports the threat was countered, though they still remain on alert.
They're urging all U.S. citizens to exercise all possible caution, remaining at home or in a safe location until the all clear has been made.
While this doesn't super involve us; it may involve our potential kiddo and other Americans in Uganda. Please pray that they are kept safe and can come home soon!
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Home Study Approval!
You guys! Our home study has been approved!
After having to make a few edits last week, the Bethany Global Offices have approved our home study. So now what?
Do you remember this post about the I-600A? That's next. Well, after we sign the home study to say that we approve (I guess that's important, too!).
Then, the fee. When I log in to our adoption portal (a place for message between our adoption specialists, resources, waiting children, etc.), I see a familiar, red $ at the top of the screen. With an approved home study, comes the fee. So actually, that's next.
We've still got a couple hundred dollars left to save/raise until we can pay the fee, and we know God will work in His perfect timing, per usual.
After having to make a few edits last week, the Bethany Global Offices have approved our home study. So now what?
Do you remember this post about the I-600A? That's next. Well, after we sign the home study to say that we approve (I guess that's important, too!).
Then, the fee. When I log in to our adoption portal (a place for message between our adoption specialists, resources, waiting children, etc.), I see a familiar, red $ at the top of the screen. With an approved home study, comes the fee. So actually, that's next.
We've still got a couple hundred dollars left to save/raise until we can pay the fee, and we know God will work in His perfect timing, per usual.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Form I-600A...huh?
We've received word from the global office that we're able to start preparing for our I-600A. For those of you who don't know, this form is the Application for Advanced Processing of Orphan Petition, got it?
Okay, let's back up.
We have to file with the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (often referred to as USCIS). According to the USCIS website, the form is used by U.S. citizen who plans to adopt a foreign-born child and enables USCIS to adjudicate the application that relates to the qualifications of the applicant(s) as prospective adoptive parent(s).
Okay, I'll be honest, I had to look up the meaning of adjudicate—to make a formal judgement or decision about a problem or disputed matter.
Basically we submit this form to USCIS and they will approve us to adopt internationally. The child you (or we) are adopting can not immigrate into the United States as an "orphan" until the form I-600 has been approved and the child has obtained an immigrant visa.
Along with this form, we'll need to include certified copies of our birth certificates, marriage license (I ordered these during our homestudy process), our homestudy report, as well as $720 to submit the form, and $85 per person living in the household (two people for now, and we'll have to do an addendum when Mkini comes to live with us...more on that later).We'll also need to get fingerprinted again and mail those in with this form, which if I remember correctly was $10 per person (again, Mkini will need to do this as well).
So that's what we're working on next. We can go ahead and get this filled out, and once our homestudy gets approved, we can send it in right away. After that, we'll start working on our dossier.
To see the form and read more about the form I-600A, you can click here and here.
Okay, let's back up.
We have to file with the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (often referred to as USCIS). According to the USCIS website, the form is used by U.S. citizen who plans to adopt a foreign-born child and enables USCIS to adjudicate the application that relates to the qualifications of the applicant(s) as prospective adoptive parent(s).
Okay, I'll be honest, I had to look up the meaning of adjudicate—to make a formal judgement or decision about a problem or disputed matter.
Basically we submit this form to USCIS and they will approve us to adopt internationally. The child you (or we) are adopting can not immigrate into the United States as an "orphan" until the form I-600 has been approved and the child has obtained an immigrant visa.
Along with this form, we'll need to include certified copies of our birth certificates, marriage license (I ordered these during our homestudy process), our homestudy report, as well as $720 to submit the form, and $85 per person living in the household (two people for now, and we'll have to do an addendum when Mkini comes to live with us...more on that later).We'll also need to get fingerprinted again and mail those in with this form, which if I remember correctly was $10 per person (again, Mkini will need to do this as well).
So that's what we're working on next. We can go ahead and get this filled out, and once our homestudy gets approved, we can send it in right away. After that, we'll start working on our dossier.
To see the form and read more about the form I-600A, you can click here and here.
Friday, August 1, 2014
High Five for Friday
It's time for the August version of High Five for Friday. Holy cow that came out of no where, didn't it? We've been fortunate to have some beautiful weather (less of the 100° and humid days than in previous years), which has been ah-maz-ing.
1. We switched up date night this week to Monday (we usually have it on Wednesday). It was a great start to the week. We actually switched up activities as well. We went to several home improvement stores (can you say romance) to look at some stuff we need for the house. We were sure to get some Tasty Tacos and ice cream after. It was a nice change starting the week off with a date night. Who knows, maybe Mondays will be the new Wednesdays.
2. We have a rental house that Adam and I help manage and it's been a crazy last few weeks getting it ready for new tenants. I'll be happy and relieved when we're finished.
3. Adam's parents came to town to help his brother move out of said rental house and into our house (before he starts PT school in Indiana), so it was nice to see them. (This is why we changed date night to Monday...are you piecing things together?) It was nice to spend time with them and have dinner. We went to a relatively new place in town, The Mucky Duck Pub—a new British pub-type of place. They've got killer fish and chips + banana bread beer (yum).
4. We had the Workiva (my company) summer picnic on Thursday, which was a lot of fun. It was for the whole company plus the kids (or dogs) in everyone's family. It was fun to see everyone outside of the work element. My favorite was seeing the Executive Chef in normal clothes, magical.
5. Adam is going down to a golf tournament with family on Saturday, so I'm looking forward to really getting stuff done. I made a list earlier this week and have been adding to it as the week has gone by. Sometimes it's nice to have a relaxing weekend, but sometimes, you just want to get stuff accomplished. AmIright?
[Bonus] 6. Our social worker let us know that she's almost done with our home study already! It will need to go through a few rounds of approvals (she said they're always at least one) then we can start getting our Dossier documents.
[Double Bonus] 7. I know two (two!) adoptive mama's that are in Uganda right now! One is meeting her kiddos, and one is bringing her son home! If you get a chance, please pray for their travels, kiddos, and time in Uganda. How exciting!
Have yourself a wonderful first weekend of August. Sending blessings to you all.
[Bonus] 6. Our social worker let us know that she's almost done with our home study already! It will need to go through a few rounds of approvals (she said they're always at least one) then we can start getting our Dossier documents.
[Double Bonus] 7. I know two (two!) adoptive mama's that are in Uganda right now! One is meeting her kiddos, and one is bringing her son home! If you get a chance, please pray for their travels, kiddos, and time in Uganda. How exciting!
Have yourself a wonderful first weekend of August. Sending blessings to you all.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Last Call for T-shirts
This is it, folks.
The last call for t-shirts. Our pre-sale site closes this evening, so if you haven't had a chance to get on over to this site and buy one, you better do it now!
As a reminder, you can order on the site, and after it closes (tonight!) they will begin production. After the turnaround (they estimate 8 days), I will get them and give them out (if you don't live near me, I'll ship yours).
With our next fee of $4,650 quickly approaching (due after our home study report is written), these shirts are a way to help with that. We appreciate 1 shirt or 10 shirts and thank you for thinking of us (and wearing a cool shirt!)
Click here to buy a shirt!
The last call for t-shirts. Our pre-sale site closes this evening, so if you haven't had a chance to get on over to this site and buy one, you better do it now!
As a reminder, you can order on the site, and after it closes (tonight!) they will begin production. After the turnaround (they estimate 8 days), I will get them and give them out (if you don't live near me, I'll ship yours).
With our next fee of $4,650 quickly approaching (due after our home study report is written), these shirts are a way to help with that. We appreciate 1 shirt or 10 shirts and thank you for thinking of us (and wearing a cool shirt!)
Click here to buy a shirt!
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Fundraiser #2: T-shirts
It takes a village to raise a child. ––African Proverb
Oh that's nice, and it's African, so that's fine. But what does it mean?
Well, here's what we thought: You guys are our village. Our village for love, support, guidance, laughs, and so much more. Where would we be without our village? Who knows. But definitely not here.
It's not just now that our so called, village, has come into play. You've also helped shape us into who we are by offering the same items that I listed above (we just didn't ask you to buy t-shirts then [insert chuckle]).
So, without further ado, let me just get to the point. Will you buy a t-shirt? We love what they represent and of course the placement of that little heart sits right upon Uganda.
These shirts are $22 and 100% of all proceeds go towards our adoption fund. There is a bit of a caviot: This site is only open until July 29, so if you want one, better do it now. Once the site is closed, they will make the shirts and I'll ship them out to those who don't live near me. Click here to buy a shirt, or copy and paste this into your browser: https://village.eightsevencentral.net/shop/it-takes-a-village/
Please consider purchasing a shirt. And tell your friends.
Blessings to you!
[While you may be familiar with the Hillary Clinton book that shares the same name, I assure you that is not what we were going for.]
Oh that's nice, and it's African, so that's fine. But what does it mean?
Well, here's what we thought: You guys are our village. Our village for love, support, guidance, laughs, and so much more. Where would we be without our village? Who knows. But definitely not here.
It's not just now that our so called, village, has come into play. You've also helped shape us into who we are by offering the same items that I listed above (we just didn't ask you to buy t-shirts then [insert chuckle]).
So, without further ado, let me just get to the point. Will you buy a t-shirt? We love what they represent and of course the placement of that little heart sits right upon Uganda.
These shirts are $22 and 100% of all proceeds go towards our adoption fund. There is a bit of a caviot: This site is only open until July 29, so if you want one, better do it now. Once the site is closed, they will make the shirts and I'll ship them out to those who don't live near me. Click here to buy a shirt, or copy and paste this into your browser: https://village.eightsevencentral.net/shop/it-takes-a-village/
Please consider purchasing a shirt. And tell your friends.
Blessings to you!
[While you may be familiar with the Hillary Clinton book that shares the same name, I assure you that is not what we were going for.]
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Garage Sale Success
We had our first fundraiser in the form of a garage sale this past weekend. And it was a great success!
We had some awesome support before and during the sale. Thank you to all of our friends who helped spread the word!
So, I know, you're probably like, on with it already! Drumroll, please: we made $661!
What?!
Unbelievable. I am so overwhelmed! I was expecting us to make, like, $250, tops. So the garage sale was a serious success.
I look at this situation and wonder how people can think it's a coincidence that this garage sale was such a success. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Hmm. . .
I'm praising Jesus for bringing so many people to us and put our cause on their hearts.
We had some awesome support before and during the sale. Thank you to all of our friends who helped spread the word!
So, I know, you're probably like, on with it already! Drumroll, please: we made $661!
What?!
Unbelievable. I am so overwhelmed! I was expecting us to make, like, $250, tops. So the garage sale was a serious success.
I look at this situation and wonder how people can think it's a coincidence that this garage sale was such a success. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Hmm. . .
I'm praising Jesus for bringing so many people to us and put our cause on their hearts.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Home Study #3: Check
Home study #3 has been completed! Three down, one to go.
Lindsay (our social worker) came to our house last Thursday to meet with the two of us. This time around, she didn't have any paperwork for us, and we didn't have to be separated. There really wasn't much to it.
Her questions consisted of our family information, our past and childhood, and a bit about our finances. So we talked about where we grew up, who we hung out with, what we did in school, that kind of stuff. Then we discussed a little about our finances (basically just that she would need a bank statement) and then we just discussed the relationship we have with both of our families.
After we chatted for about 45 minutes, she hadthe tour the grand tour. We walked through the house, room by room and she simply observed; didn't really say anything, didn't write anything down, just observed.
One thing in particular that she did was look in every closet. I'm not exactly sure why she had to do that, but she did. She made a comment that she had to see that "this wasn't where you kept the bodies". But I assure you there are no bodies. . .
Our next home study is scheduled for July 24, which will be after we return from RAGBRAI, the Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. Check it out.
Lindsay (our social worker) came to our house last Thursday to meet with the two of us. This time around, she didn't have any paperwork for us, and we didn't have to be separated. There really wasn't much to it.
Her questions consisted of our family information, our past and childhood, and a bit about our finances. So we talked about where we grew up, who we hung out with, what we did in school, that kind of stuff. Then we discussed a little about our finances (basically just that she would need a bank statement) and then we just discussed the relationship we have with both of our families.
After we chatted for about 45 minutes, she had
One thing in particular that she did was look in every closet. I'm not exactly sure why she had to do that, but she did. She made a comment that she had to see that "this wasn't where you kept the bodies". But I assure you there are no bodies. . .
Our next home study is scheduled for July 24, which will be after we return from RAGBRAI, the Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. Check it out.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Fundraiser #1: Yard Sale
We've got a couple different fundraisers up our sleeves. . . and one is happening in this (that's right, this) Saturday!
We're having a yard sale this Saturday from 7 a.m.––2 p.m.
We're having a yard sale this Saturday from 7 a.m.––2 p.m.
Hot ticket items (I mean, I hope they're hot ticket items) include:
- 2010 Harley Davidson (you know you want it!)
- Retro chairs
- Entertainment stand (made by my hubby)
- Book cases
- Queen headboard
- Dressers
- Books and movies
- Random home decor
- Other awesome stuff!
You can find us at 1201 Curtiss Avenue (the corner of Curtiss and 12th Street). If you're in the Ames area, stop by, and tell your friends!
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
To Those Who Are New Here
Hi! Are you new here?
I recently posted the picture below on Facebook to announce our adoption and am overwhelmed by the amazing response of our friends and family! All the likes, comments, and shares have made us feel so loved.
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So I just wanted to say thank you to those who have come to visit our blog. If you haven't already, feel free to check out our different pages, and don't hesitate to ask questions if any arise. I have really enjoyed talking to people about our story, especially if you feel adopting may be right for you and your family.
Feel free to stick around, I'll continue to update the blog as things happen.
Happy Tuesday!
I recently posted the picture below on Facebook to announce our adoption and am overwhelmed by the amazing response of our friends and family! All the likes, comments, and shares have made us feel so loved.
So I just wanted to say thank you to those who have come to visit our blog. If you haven't already, feel free to check out our different pages, and don't hesitate to ask questions if any arise. I have really enjoyed talking to people about our story, especially if you feel adopting may be right for you and your family.
Feel free to stick around, I'll continue to update the blog as things happen.
Happy Tuesday!
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Go Fund Me!
That seems a bit direct, doesn't it?
Maybe you've heard of it, Go Fund Me, it's a site used for donations of all types—medical bills, mission trips, weddings, businesses, adoption, just take a look at the categories, there are tons of them. You can even search by your zip code to view any fundraisers that are in your area.
I know that it seems like I'm all for this donation thing (well, that's because I am), but it is a bit difficult to say to someone, "My husband and I decided to do this thing that costs $40,000 so will you give us money?"
I know that 1.) We truly didn't decide to do this and 2.) This thing is bringing a child home. Giving a child a family.
I know adoption isn't for everyone, and that's okay! But adoption is one of the ways we can live out the gospel, become more like Christ. And if you aren't able to bring an orphan into your home, I ask that you consider supporting those who can—not even just us. Take a look at some adoption blogs by doing a simple Google search. There are few people who feel called to adopt who can truly "afford" to adopt. But that is the beauty of our God!
I tend to be a worrier. I know I shouldn't worry. It literally tells us not to in the Bible. Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (Shout out to my Mama T for reminding me of this!)
But you know what, I haven't been worrying about the money we need to raise for our adoption. A calmness comes over me that tells me all is well. That we'll get there. And I know it may take time, but I know that eventually, we'll get there.
I've come across quite a few adoptive families who use Go Fund Me to raise money for their adoption, and I thought, "Yeah, that's a really good idea."
So here we are.
Go Fund Me is very easy to use, you simply go to our page, Ugandan Adoption—The Negrete Family, click donate, and use a credit or debit card from anywhere in the world. It would also be helpful if you shared our story, so others can view the page and read about us.
Thank you for praying and considering a donation to our adoption fund.
Maybe you've heard of it, Go Fund Me, it's a site used for donations of all types—medical bills, mission trips, weddings, businesses, adoption, just take a look at the categories, there are tons of them. You can even search by your zip code to view any fundraisers that are in your area.
I know that it seems like I'm all for this donation thing (well, that's because I am), but it is a bit difficult to say to someone, "My husband and I decided to do this thing that costs $40,000 so will you give us money?"
I know that 1.) We truly didn't decide to do this and 2.) This thing is bringing a child home. Giving a child a family.
I know adoption isn't for everyone, and that's okay! But adoption is one of the ways we can live out the gospel, become more like Christ. And if you aren't able to bring an orphan into your home, I ask that you consider supporting those who can—not even just us. Take a look at some adoption blogs by doing a simple Google search. There are few people who feel called to adopt who can truly "afford" to adopt. But that is the beauty of our God!
I tend to be a worrier. I know I shouldn't worry. It literally tells us not to in the Bible. Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (Shout out to my Mama T for reminding me of this!)
But you know what, I haven't been worrying about the money we need to raise for our adoption. A calmness comes over me that tells me all is well. That we'll get there. And I know it may take time, but I know that eventually, we'll get there.
I've come across quite a few adoptive families who use Go Fund Me to raise money for their adoption, and I thought, "Yeah, that's a really good idea."
So here we are.
Go Fund Me is very easy to use, you simply go to our page, Ugandan Adoption—The Negrete Family, click donate, and use a credit or debit card from anywhere in the world. It would also be helpful if you shared our story, so others can view the page and read about us.
Thank you for praying and considering a donation to our adoption fund.
Friday, June 27, 2014
High Five for Friday
Friday! The first Friday of Summer! So that means that June is almost over. Holy cow. Here's a question for ya: is half Christmas in June or July? Anyway, let's get on with it...
1. I got a new job in April in a different department at the same company and have been both jobs for the past three months. Well, someone finally got hired for my old position last week! This means I get to fully transition over to my new department. I'll do the full transition mid-July after I help train my replacement.
2. We're heading to Minneapolis this weekend for Adam's grandpa's wedding! We'll be seeing Adam's parents, aunts and uncles, and their families. I feel like it's just been forever since we've seen family. I'm really looking forward to it.
3. Adam and I have been really kicking it into gear working on our house lately. We're working on converting a room into a laundry room and have just been stuck on the worst part: ripping out plaster. For some (unknown to me) reason, people used to put drywall up, and then put plaster on top of it [insert are you kidding me? face]. So when we rip it out, it's even more heavy and even more dusty. Ew. But this week, we just felt some motivation to keep going, which is awesome, because it's something we've been praying about. . . shout out to the big guy on this one!
4. I made home made mint chocolate chip ice cream on Sunday. And it was good. Having fresh mint is pretty fun. Even though I don't always know what to do with the abundance of mint that I have.
5. Before our home study is complete, we need to complete a 10-hour Hague course that can be purchased from Adoption Learning Partners. Some of the courses took a half our to get through and some took longer, but I was able to knock them out this week. The courses are on transratial families, grief and loss, attachment, medical needs of adopted children, and adopting an older child.
How was your week? Sending blessings your way!
1. I got a new job in April in a different department at the same company and have been both jobs for the past three months. Well, someone finally got hired for my old position last week! This means I get to fully transition over to my new department. I'll do the full transition mid-July after I help train my replacement.
2. We're heading to Minneapolis this weekend for Adam's grandpa's wedding! We'll be seeing Adam's parents, aunts and uncles, and their families. I feel like it's just been forever since we've seen family. I'm really looking forward to it.
 |
| Just, this. |
3. Adam and I have been really kicking it into gear working on our house lately. We're working on converting a room into a laundry room and have just been stuck on the worst part: ripping out plaster. For some (unknown to me) reason, people used to put drywall up, and then put plaster on top of it [insert are you kidding me? face]. So when we rip it out, it's even more heavy and even more dusty. Ew. But this week, we just felt some motivation to keep going, which is awesome, because it's something we've been praying about. . . shout out to the big guy on this one!
 |
| Doesn't that look so fun? |
5. Before our home study is complete, we need to complete a 10-hour Hague course that can be purchased from Adoption Learning Partners. Some of the courses took a half our to get through and some took longer, but I was able to knock them out this week. The courses are on transratial families, grief and loss, attachment, medical needs of adopted children, and adopting an older child.
How was your week? Sending blessings your way!
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Home Study #2: Check
Home study #2 has been completed. . . and it was easy [insert Staples guy's voice].
Lindsay came to our house and we immediately got started. She met Nellie (who didn't even jump up on her., she must have known), and handed us both a few sheets of paper to fill out. the paperwork consisted of questions mainly about ourselves; things we've experienced, family history, if we do drugs, you know that fun stuff.
We had to fill out the paperwork at the same time, but couldn't talk to each other to ensure we weren't going to conspire against our social worker. We're good people, we wouldn't do that.
After we finished that up, Adam had to leave. So, naturally, he went to the garage. While he was gone, Lindsay and I went through the questions where we answered something other than "neither" or "not applicable".
The first box I checked was that I had experienced violence. The first question. I explained to her what happened when I lost my mom and how it affected me. Sidenote: I'm wondering if this is weird if there is anyone who doesn't know what happened. Is that weird?
Some other questions she asked us were about why we chose to characterize our spouse the way we did and how we plan on disciplining our children. This this we were both (separately) like, "uhhh? Not exactly sure?" so she was pretty lenient on that answer. I mean, we have an idea of how we want to discipline, but then, who's to say that will stay the case once we have children?
Overall, the second home study was a breeze. I didn't need to worry about it as much as I did, of course. Thank you for all your prayers and thoughts while helping us through. Two down, two to go!
Lindsay came to our house and we immediately got started. She met Nellie (who didn't even jump up on her., she must have known), and handed us both a few sheets of paper to fill out. the paperwork consisted of questions mainly about ourselves; things we've experienced, family history, if we do drugs, you know that fun stuff.
We had to fill out the paperwork at the same time, but couldn't talk to each other to ensure we weren't going to conspire against our social worker. We're good people, we wouldn't do that.
After we finished that up, Adam had to leave. So, naturally, he went to the garage. While he was gone, Lindsay and I went through the questions where we answered something other than "neither" or "not applicable".
The first box I checked was that I had experienced violence. The first question. I explained to her what happened when I lost my mom and how it affected me. Sidenote: I'm wondering if this is weird if there is anyone who doesn't know what happened. Is that weird?
Some other questions she asked us were about why we chose to characterize our spouse the way we did and how we plan on disciplining our children. This this we were both (separately) like, "uhhh? Not exactly sure?" so she was pretty lenient on that answer. I mean, we have an idea of how we want to discipline, but then, who's to say that will stay the case once we have children?
Overall, the second home study was a breeze. I didn't need to worry about it as much as I did, of course. Thank you for all your prayers and thoughts while helping us through. Two down, two to go!
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Anticipation
Tomorrow marks our second home study! We're anxious to get the second one over with. Like I mentioned in my last post, this is the first time our social worker will be coming to our house to interview us; she'll meet with us together, then separately.
To tell you the truth (that's a weird expression isn't it. Like I haven't already been telling the truth? Well I assure you, I have been–anyway, focus), I think I'm most nervous about her actually coming to our house.
I know I've mentioned before that we're remodeling–like really remodeling. The whole house, the whole kit and caboodle. She said she needs to know that we'll have a designated space for our child (which we do), but I just fear that she'll look at our house and the busted down walls and think, "you can't bring a child here!" and we know that. We started the adoption now thinking that we wouldn't be bringing a child home for a couple years, which is still the case.
I'm asking for prayers to keep our (my) nerves calm tomorrow. I just came across a wonderful little quote: "Pray or worry, but don't do both." I need to remember that more.
Have a blessed Wednesday!
To tell you the truth (that's a weird expression isn't it. Like I haven't already been telling the truth? Well I assure you, I have been–anyway, focus), I think I'm most nervous about her actually coming to our house.
I know I've mentioned before that we're remodeling–like really remodeling. The whole house, the whole kit and caboodle. She said she needs to know that we'll have a designated space for our child (which we do), but I just fear that she'll look at our house and the busted down walls and think, "you can't bring a child here!" and we know that. We started the adoption now thinking that we wouldn't be bringing a child home for a couple years, which is still the case.
I'm asking for prayers to keep our (my) nerves calm tomorrow. I just came across a wonderful little quote: "Pray or worry, but don't do both." I need to remember that more.
Have a blessed Wednesday!
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Home Study #1: Check
Whoo hoo! We survived our first home study! That's exciting, right? Well, we think so.
We met down in Des Moines for our first home study. I know, you're probably thinking "wait, if it's a home study, why wasn't it at your home?" Right, right. Well the first one is at the agency's office–I assume it's so we can meet our social worker before she comes straight into our home.
The home study itself went really well. Here are the things she asked us:
- Describe your personality.
- Describe your hobbies.
- Describe your house.
- Why do you want to adopt? What's your story?
- What does a typical day look like?
- What does a typical weekend look like?
- How do you celebrate holidays?
- Do you have any family traditions?
- How culturally diverse is your town/neighborhood?
- Etcetera. . .
Honestly, I don't think we answered any questions that we haven't already covered with someone at Bethany or in our paperwork.
While we were there, we went ahead and made our home study #2 appointment. We scheduled it for a week from today. Our social worker said she will need to meet with Adam and I together, then separate. She said she'll do a quick look around the house and then talk with us. So we'll see how that goes.
Cheers to step 2.1!
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Home Study Meeting #1
Happy Thursday!
Remember in last week's High Five for Friday where I said we had officially submitted our paperwork?
Well...we made our first appointment with our social worker. We're meeting with her on June 12. The first meeting will be in the Bethany office in Des Moines, with the following three at our home, each visit taking about an hour and a half.
There isn't much we do until that point. We have a few other documents we need to get together but we technically have until July for these. Our wonderful references will have some paperwork sent to them to fill out, and we need to get medical exams set up.
It's not much, but it's definitely a step in the right direction!
Remember in last week's High Five for Friday where I said we had officially submitted our paperwork?
Well...we made our first appointment with our social worker. We're meeting with her on June 12. The first meeting will be in the Bethany office in Des Moines, with the following three at our home, each visit taking about an hour and a half.
There isn't much we do until that point. We have a few other documents we need to get together but we technically have until July for these. Our wonderful references will have some paperwork sent to them to fill out, and we need to get medical exams set up.
It's not much, but it's definitely a step in the right direction!
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