tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63871589442359208732024-03-23T03:14:48.331-07:00Tales of the Rogi - Praying Kindu HomeTales of life and faith in the Rogers familyMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-47131506211382197882014-08-25T19:32:00.000-07:002014-08-25T19:51:02.694-07:00Somebody Should Really Keep this Blog CurrentWell, Last time I posted, we were waiting to hear that we cleared Embassy to bring Kindu home.<br />
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How many of our readers had NO idea when that happened? Hopefully not too many since Kindu has now been HOME OVER 8 MONTHS!<br />
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God is so good (all the time)!<br />
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Here's a recap:<br />
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12/12/13 Kindu cleared Embassy and we were asked to select 3 dates for possible Visa appointments. We got confirmed for a 12/18/13 Visa appointment and IN A HURRY we booked our flights.<br />
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We were in Ethiopia by 12/17/13, grabbed our son and had a nice, short stay.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccOHQg0wMzK1v_Lelf3pqAak-pEsGZtdnS4Px9gXek8bycRGkc5-hGpg7a9gerlr5aV0fRUGa0pYJSWWs0ifqfOmXgaVe1_lVtVbIzqy7C_JQ4PXMVEKEduzEHrLorDPzZnmNSRZFdnoG/s1600/IMG_4978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccOHQg0wMzK1v_Lelf3pqAak-pEsGZtdnS4Px9gXek8bycRGkc5-hGpg7a9gerlr5aV0fRUGa0pYJSWWs0ifqfOmXgaVe1_lVtVbIzqy7C_JQ4PXMVEKEduzEHrLorDPzZnmNSRZFdnoG/s1600/IMG_4978.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's get outta here!</td></tr>
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12/21/13 We arrived home to a wonderful party in the airport</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUwkmAcPgam7TMmYUP_AWoauf2QNOprzXLDea_g0YeToK_G55_WwPZc6CHqfhlXtU3JRSm-Y8jGph1eJjggz5JteTxRbpuU4cOrHTiovUHanDprZMV72tWSb0B0YJwZ_LyMWwk6AkUDFs/s1600/IMG_9721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUwkmAcPgam7TMmYUP_AWoauf2QNOprzXLDea_g0YeToK_G55_WwPZc6CHqfhlXtU3JRSm-Y8jGph1eJjggz5JteTxRbpuU4cOrHTiovUHanDprZMV72tWSb0B0YJwZ_LyMWwk6AkUDFs/s1600/IMG_9721.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The older Little Rogi's 1st glimpse of their new brother</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NroGWwQ0aaIaGZlRXYiHj-2OYC7RphmUuHUq6DIKgEXKatKa_nH0cvlqNLrkLNrjQM9hpBBR68GtSjLXeL6AnkSwAVfWbtdk1Mz-1DtUufXghDknnyxlzjOGA_kbnKipYuG9f4122UBf/s1600/IMG_9736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NroGWwQ0aaIaGZlRXYiHj-2OYC7RphmUuHUq6DIKgEXKatKa_nH0cvlqNLrkLNrjQM9hpBBR68GtSjLXeL6AnkSwAVfWbtdk1Mz-1DtUufXghDknnyxlzjOGA_kbnKipYuG9f4122UBf/s1600/IMG_9736.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st family photo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the party!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkXZe0sLV5x40ZS1K-5MiIixwg2dOXrTDSzr6uM_T2hg7K3LfuDmPiY32jRR6V2HAIpCxu0kGIjZrcxmRIUhPRrO5n9HZ7F0Il6N0crX5mQkT4pyL8Ep80xLXN9ZZoaMMozD9WhTKeajB/s1600/IMG_9745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkXZe0sLV5x40ZS1K-5MiIixwg2dOXrTDSzr6uM_T2hg7K3LfuDmPiY32jRR6V2HAIpCxu0kGIjZrcxmRIUhPRrO5n9HZ7F0Il6N0crX5mQkT4pyL8Ep80xLXN9ZZoaMMozD9WhTKeajB/s1600/IMG_9745.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reconnecting with another Ethiopian friend who came home a few months before<br />
Oh, the JOY!!! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks for the love!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0md79H-0YcdBPBOxKk-AhjrQgeFUbhC72l_9iOzBZs1mJxcZ4UX_If7m_PKcPFHCAXJSsHrUHxNMDJ2K0QddEv14uB2YAdQqOc1_1tWBhXBMfi_S_EPy3u6UjPhV7H-So8zO68I1r7X8/s1600/2013-12-21+17.46.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0md79H-0YcdBPBOxKk-AhjrQgeFUbhC72l_9iOzBZs1mJxcZ4UX_If7m_PKcPFHCAXJSsHrUHxNMDJ2K0QddEv14uB2YAdQqOc1_1tWBhXBMfi_S_EPy3u6UjPhV7H-So8zO68I1r7X8/s1600/2013-12-21+17.46.51.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">We had Khris' sister pick up some Ethiopian carry-out for Kindu's first dinner home and we settled in for the night</span></span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">.</span></td></tr>
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The next day Kindu and I stayed home from church but Khris dialed me up on FaceTime so I could listen to the sermon. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEuhWh1hjH3OsNqs6h6fUjWaRlbOWZ6__xa4pdzQt3VeJdqwGzwosYfms1Hs9vkorcxr-EU06boyVC7b7rjpvIxlvXObAdotfvQtGkWccyeUCmDuvbHYBb70HvXuwi-980yooklkh_zyW/s1600/2013-12-22+15.35.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEuhWh1hjH3OsNqs6h6fUjWaRlbOWZ6__xa4pdzQt3VeJdqwGzwosYfms1Hs9vkorcxr-EU06boyVC7b7rjpvIxlvXObAdotfvQtGkWccyeUCmDuvbHYBb70HvXuwi-980yooklkh_zyW/s1600/2013-12-22+15.35.57.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunday after church: 1st time trimming the tree</td></tr>
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Kindu went to church for the first time on Christmas Eve just a couple nights later. He was overwhelmed despite our having everyone keep their distance.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6OGuW0EYsGWf6fix1xs0efVdCnGTBOSN938DkjnFVCevWJo6nWCCxsgv2x7b0CeX_gyDEXPn_K_NBXlOCUtSQ7S0J0gdVm8vXrdUDbPB6zekgckFDEbRGE77xa14fW2kZQ7b171FTySz/s1600/2013-12-25+08.01.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6OGuW0EYsGWf6fix1xs0efVdCnGTBOSN938DkjnFVCevWJo6nWCCxsgv2x7b0CeX_gyDEXPn_K_NBXlOCUtSQ7S0J0gdVm8vXrdUDbPB6zekgckFDEbRGE77xa14fW2kZQ7b171FTySz/s1600/2013-12-25+08.01.37.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st American Christmas</td></tr>
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Kindu and the other Little Rogi enjoyed many activities during our Christmas Break...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgSlCcedFlkjJRP71gCU-POROYgAJfBevSs5V-vg7bSChGXM_oQ3ydn96VZQ5Q3ybqbUTT4DDEXVnkkoTG2JPif1nkFvvbP8lEyWePelH4vMumhtLXziIhPunaIHAxjm443uh7pKhZtAi/s1600/2013-12-29+12.45.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgSlCcedFlkjJRP71gCU-POROYgAJfBevSs5V-vg7bSChGXM_oQ3ydn96VZQ5Q3ybqbUTT4DDEXVnkkoTG2JPif1nkFvvbP8lEyWePelH4vMumhtLXziIhPunaIHAxjm443uh7pKhZtAi/s1600/2013-12-29+12.45.04.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Play-Doh...he made me some "soup" ;-)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6qzScdVFggotLFllk6A3VP1a3F7kvLpzzP_yCeb8h4b5_t_H0rdAV3HVGSJHdyOxraTzPhv5_0KI1S8Kp6VvohhZtWF10mBeBvCChT5GgHt9jhPf227IJbMvHGTbxCi1MHBliTI1wBz4/s1600/2013-12-23+10.58.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6qzScdVFggotLFllk6A3VP1a3F7kvLpzzP_yCeb8h4b5_t_H0rdAV3HVGSJHdyOxraTzPhv5_0KI1S8Kp6VvohhZtWF10mBeBvCChT5GgHt9jhPf227IJbMvHGTbxCi1MHBliTI1wBz4/s1600/2013-12-23+10.58.31.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st horseback ride</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpHeVEI4X4Fz8P0OD_3TwSEvw6GMPSidfuWmg7OCzrEYXmqiqK4xBmRxXMHNOZmdrOcVmZmGmh7C2g3BXq7c7jXO9ua2JHR73A2idLO3Uk64vSPPhmpoHV5iZQM6f-0AAFwcgdHyYx630/s1600/2013-12-30+14.38.04-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpHeVEI4X4Fz8P0OD_3TwSEvw6GMPSidfuWmg7OCzrEYXmqiqK4xBmRxXMHNOZmdrOcVmZmGmh7C2g3BXq7c7jXO9ua2JHR73A2idLO3Uk64vSPPhmpoHV5iZQM6f-0AAFwcgdHyYx630/s1600/2013-12-30+14.38.04-2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st watercolor painting</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJmVaxcdtlUWT4fTMPBMLWQ8Q2ssvgSg2PtaFz-NgXRm1xGcAQAwN-RrmOANTEl9fQesmT6TO3AVhaR_JvJ_QMsbdN080f2sbxnhEZj8I-h8fL2PqhYGhMyvrMDKfSZ988h4hHed8ilogP/s1600/2014-01-01+09.52.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJmVaxcdtlUWT4fTMPBMLWQ8Q2ssvgSg2PtaFz-NgXRm1xGcAQAwN-RrmOANTEl9fQesmT6TO3AVhaR_JvJ_QMsbdN080f2sbxnhEZj8I-h8fL2PqhYGhMyvrMDKfSZ988h4hHed8ilogP/s1600/2014-01-01+09.52.19.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uno with the siblings is a good way to learn colors and numbers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZ-DpwC8P0w6UG-PZ_NPeHu1GAGV67-1jrChf2uY3psb4yw7QgizLIrNZNZLn-gUcKIoOURCSEIdMRRk_lDJiPrKG9J3x1vXVOHu7zsnJKXQKQFvUsnd5nfPvAlOtQFsA8BpEkTD6yFIQ/s1600/2014-01-02+11.51.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZ-DpwC8P0w6UG-PZ_NPeHu1GAGV67-1jrChf2uY3psb4yw7QgizLIrNZNZLn-gUcKIoOURCSEIdMRRk_lDJiPrKG9J3x1vXVOHu7zsnJKXQKQFvUsnd5nfPvAlOtQFsA8BpEkTD6yFIQ/s1600/2014-01-02+11.51.47.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My handsome SuperHeroes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkhWcdhHzS95rrUZrnB7P8OrOIWmqmnejVVigv27qH8NA7q_bUhAcze3386StgKpIeyTcxlPgfzr1bp24uiqmb34h1t4h4oIdEtXFE39UigxPJX22RE8JLhYX0d5Tb2cuh3eRhfaUxgWf/s1600/2014-01-20+11.22.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkhWcdhHzS95rrUZrnB7P8OrOIWmqmnejVVigv27qH8NA7q_bUhAcze3386StgKpIeyTcxlPgfzr1bp24uiqmb34h1t4h4oIdEtXFE39UigxPJX22RE8JLhYX0d5Tb2cuh3eRhfaUxgWf/s1600/2014-01-20+11.22.55.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st birthday party. It was at Recreations Outlet. <br />
Kindu would NOT leave my side. Although there were a TON of things to play on, he didn't want to play with Reese or the other kids. He felt safest when I held his hand through all of it. This was a BIG trust-building day for us.</td></tr>
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6 weeks home, we could see a HUGE difference in his weight. Check out a side-by-side we posted on instagram ---><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQTlCyx75_N7wDMuztfO7OFhBod6lcBguY_2WGTQH-1uD3mXyx2MKm9LS7B8ytN-rfkbYJFtAS7U-6otYnGNrzL1gllIt4DdjJw5A5FqykUCRVe8npWesUnmqfi3nLTILyFfvd7DifhsZ/s1600/2014-02-10+14.58.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQTlCyx75_N7wDMuztfO7OFhBod6lcBguY_2WGTQH-1uD3mXyx2MKm9LS7B8ytN-rfkbYJFtAS7U-6otYnGNrzL1gllIt4DdjJw5A5FqykUCRVe8npWesUnmqfi3nLTILyFfvd7DifhsZ/s1600/2014-02-10+14.58.03.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6 weeks home</td></tr>
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In the first 2 months home, we were already over the "honeymoon" phase of our adoption. We are grateful though for as smooth a transition as we've had compared to some of the possible scenarios we were prepared for. There have only been a handful of meltdowns and panicky behaviors. And Praise the Lord, all the kids get along so well!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyLYrmyh28hyphenhyphen2iyVAOv-b0xKH_tY8k4-10s_-GtVfbdf_TFukQCopblVk8VnorUlv4PpJJ-qyG4qz99GqwAmdFl4uRMY98aaiLSA_63iEJOklfJi5kwtYr7kaJrx4i9_8FMDSXLicnENp/s1600/2014-02-16+20.15.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyLYrmyh28hyphenhyphen2iyVAOv-b0xKH_tY8k4-10s_-GtVfbdf_TFukQCopblVk8VnorUlv4PpJJ-qyG4qz99GqwAmdFl4uRMY98aaiLSA_63iEJOklfJi5kwtYr7kaJrx4i9_8FMDSXLicnENp/s1600/2014-02-16+20.15.25.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st Valentine's Day. Instead of cards and candy, we do chocolate fondue...YUM!</td></tr>
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By the 3-month mark, we counted and found that Kindu had learned and was using 250 English words and phrases! He was really getting accustomed to school time too---></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mFlhvYFzKZryzqelUt0vGKVMK15l99VopdkPFBqVK0r7DTWqPLmyvaMRQUMjWR75P-fZyG8YIG1H9xZogMSgvo9vWKiBRJ6vL1gD9ZiOc7m9VkRjP5pv5IzZyo9FNNHqjRBC4dHK3NWt/s1600/2014-01-24+16.48.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mFlhvYFzKZryzqelUt0vGKVMK15l99VopdkPFBqVK0r7DTWqPLmyvaMRQUMjWR75P-fZyG8YIG1H9xZogMSgvo9vWKiBRJ6vL1gD9ZiOc7m9VkRjP5pv5IzZyo9FNNHqjRBC4dHK3NWt/s1600/2014-01-24+16.48.35.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying some starfall.com learning time on the computer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoyGNngh4TY2aAnwicIU9gH0l4WqislhaYrcMTC2cD-gisw-KzwhYMldzwPwsVbvm3OJMCSRh8dg9eLBymLhnadrW-uqu4O_Edmp9B0bswSwaeEcy03L3QKhaFr5eAPzxVBK-WL6lejQD/s1600/2014-01-09+14.23.47-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoyGNngh4TY2aAnwicIU9gH0l4WqislhaYrcMTC2cD-gisw-KzwhYMldzwPwsVbvm3OJMCSRh8dg9eLBymLhnadrW-uqu4O_Edmp9B0bswSwaeEcy03L3QKhaFr5eAPzxVBK-WL6lejQD/s1600/2014-01-09+14.23.47-2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracing his name and date</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYWHGnD3SOEFJgzZHAbuMH2QGbTT6hmVnV7bNtjwbLWqPhMoYGx2-2yJE8TX2dD8TvLjglp3g0rrxPhi6phKezr_2MoQF8bVlxBrKbXTkcPvERqK7FrMZJ9VUA2gIrBDf-NUbxgrL_8Xj/s1600/2014-03-27+13.01.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYWHGnD3SOEFJgzZHAbuMH2QGbTT6hmVnV7bNtjwbLWqPhMoYGx2-2yJE8TX2dD8TvLjglp3g0rrxPhi6phKezr_2MoQF8bVlxBrKbXTkcPvERqK7FrMZJ9VUA2gIrBDf-NUbxgrL_8Xj/s1600/2014-03-27+13.01.13.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st trip to the Creation Museum...one of our favorite field trips</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDiSFsfTeJSbKnobyDpGRQ3JRYTe1WmLhav1u7D7v3HQLzq3QwAgodrhfkwf-ONavGvXhxLH7OeR2SyaeEa7-NhwJ3W8WvPARzMyO8aafU63tT_j_KyfJnI5Ajp8S7iASY6sy2662ojbu/s1600/2014-04-01+14.54.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDiSFsfTeJSbKnobyDpGRQ3JRYTe1WmLhav1u7D7v3HQLzq3QwAgodrhfkwf-ONavGvXhxLH7OeR2SyaeEa7-NhwJ3W8WvPARzMyO8aafU63tT_j_KyfJnI5Ajp8S7iASY6sy2662ojbu/s1600/2014-04-01+14.54.20.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st visit to the Columbus Zoo</td></tr>
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Kindu took part in his first organized soccer league this spring---><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0lamJLYbNLRhZ9XP4cSVoOzozEBWu3IyWSYmIuv6ZTxZG9oFJgNsCwg2Mfcyguaw-WQGLAEmYXAitfTCYAyS4riBdkrw5NY8gOS_MKrw3Vh9LAmNxVHWu0g4fN3uDFxDZNHYYbp0pZe52/s1600/2014-04-26+09.16.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0lamJLYbNLRhZ9XP4cSVoOzozEBWu3IyWSYmIuv6ZTxZG9oFJgNsCwg2Mfcyguaw-WQGLAEmYXAitfTCYAyS4riBdkrw5NY8gOS_MKrw3Vh9LAmNxVHWu0g4fN3uDFxDZNHYYbp0pZe52/s1600/2014-04-26+09.16.43.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I snagged a team shot during picture day</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CYXVXGquMbBO0tHUox8S3AcNSJ8x4OLii1ZBXc0rC3nl-IDPVqRwxGaJbVi4rkHt1snRKTYbzS9ppefbW-vdT_khxMBgI0bBMGgSmuwn9IpXRoMIcqgmxn78p7JiHWH9lgvt3MRCOcDX/s1600/IMG_5205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CYXVXGquMbBO0tHUox8S3AcNSJ8x4OLii1ZBXc0rC3nl-IDPVqRwxGaJbVi4rkHt1snRKTYbzS9ppefbW-vdT_khxMBgI0bBMGgSmuwn9IpXRoMIcqgmxn78p7JiHWH9lgvt3MRCOcDX/s1600/IMG_5205.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soccer is better with friends!</td></tr>
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We celebrated Kindu's birthday with him. His 1st ever celebrated birthday is a B-I-G deal---><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvyLcpJulKe3hNmjeGSVPccqJr2AX-C_GkK9tzTpFcgmEQngVEIIMJIg8-eyy7-nTE8gTABBcM6keh8h2ei_sJssfGAePABjFba_Odvv1Zy62ff8tl06vp1o0Wy4L-stRvqMWKuKaa4HQ/s1600/2014-05-01+08.46.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvyLcpJulKe3hNmjeGSVPccqJr2AX-C_GkK9tzTpFcgmEQngVEIIMJIg8-eyy7-nTE8gTABBcM6keh8h2ei_sJssfGAePABjFba_Odvv1Zy62ff8tl06vp1o0Wy4L-stRvqMWKuKaa4HQ/s1600/2014-05-01+08.46.35.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I'm 7!"</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W6qty2uzFAJeTUzsxOhDFkhg9rJpbWs1wLQ2JBpzaHOIuc_4v56rhgmZfb09LXiA4gi_VsByJPW0hMDQfP5oGe4xgpCHNXeySeUQIzII7rmLH0ooxMM7FaQG6cmtClXEe3HpvOoxco69/s1600/2014-05-02+19.16.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W6qty2uzFAJeTUzsxOhDFkhg9rJpbWs1wLQ2JBpzaHOIuc_4v56rhgmZfb09LXiA4gi_VsByJPW0hMDQfP5oGe4xgpCHNXeySeUQIzII7rmLH0ooxMM7FaQG6cmtClXEe3HpvOoxco69/s1600/2014-05-02+19.16.00.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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5 months home we posted another side-by-side---><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfxcL2mCSryGU5HDSGaScNgChq98iXrIVAOVxSFNOLSSqMB5kD3FwRm7P2VbMA7Ja9ML21s49e7mxZDsjV0opRUU7TA1Hl8LQH9H55xc1Sqt2YrYN0FX1HpfeCABkydNuCkRH9_L1-JxP0/s1600/2014-05-20+18.44.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfxcL2mCSryGU5HDSGaScNgChq98iXrIVAOVxSFNOLSSqMB5kD3FwRm7P2VbMA7Ja9ML21s49e7mxZDsjV0opRUU7TA1Hl8LQH9H55xc1Sqt2YrYN0FX1HpfeCABkydNuCkRH9_L1-JxP0/s1600/2014-05-20+18.44.30.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">5 months home (my caption from when I posted this on Instagram): "<span style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #222222; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;">This is what good food, good sleep, safety, stability and TONS of love looks like #adoptionrocks #gotloveadopt #adoption #lovemylittlerogi #kindu #oneless #orphannomore #john14v18"</span></span></td></tr>
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In June, Kindu went on his 1st ever family vacation---></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwIu_aqsJgVDYBAcIlrei3QStC3kK1COJJjrzNuaq6UTW8YmY2JNMOxuWErpsLux7ri6aeKrzWqFV0o11Y1sjzbvI06dVG3ugX2WFalcn8p6LhkajE73rIf_Ogz_wBjFHapkoZADFrLccD/s1600/IMG_5507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwIu_aqsJgVDYBAcIlrei3QStC3kK1COJJjrzNuaq6UTW8YmY2JNMOxuWErpsLux7ri6aeKrzWqFV0o11Y1sjzbvI06dVG3ugX2WFalcn8p6LhkajE73rIf_Ogz_wBjFHapkoZADFrLccD/s1600/IMG_5507.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First stop: Lazy 5 Ranch, where we went on a horse-drawn wagon ride and got to feed a bunch of cool animals</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfp6mWKnXuEf9CpVI78qNTUdi5XXT1Jb-rSt6rWmu8M77alAfuP8zufogyo0ucWMNObapui_kRefrEljqKscBO4RoNDS3FCJxoaQ7msLt26PsoJtavIjo-XaBXHmqZ_4jKWVLZI1pEm4-/s1600/IMG_5494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfp6mWKnXuEf9CpVI78qNTUdi5XXT1Jb-rSt6rWmu8M77alAfuP8zufogyo0ucWMNObapui_kRefrEljqKscBO4RoNDS3FCJxoaQ7msLt26PsoJtavIjo-XaBXHmqZ_4jKWVLZI1pEm4-/s1600/IMG_5494.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kindu feeding a bison</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBiayng0hmWzAWRE6IiHd1GbaGOAmY69qu5YZK2TxlTciyjo4Fxq_OaTCyJbLX04u5iVZBmOmw2jHIy8S7gneIkqJR820-t6JYXgodVUTBOvQi_NrU_dJCpoywcyksOABaMgFatCM4lUV/s1600/IMG_5470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBiayng0hmWzAWRE6IiHd1GbaGOAmY69qu5YZK2TxlTciyjo4Fxq_OaTCyJbLX04u5iVZBmOmw2jHIy8S7gneIkqJR820-t6JYXgodVUTBOvQi_NrU_dJCpoywcyksOABaMgFatCM4lUV/s1600/IMG_5470.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite part of Lazy 5 Ranch is the giraffes!!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7pumAuVwP-n9L7qM2da2fUCcUS2NHZ5InaiHakv8vrPiySyZAVJCGyLi0gYx7ItRSRgDFc1HAnfuILbwEeVxxRWz-fjxGQr5M23ZsHUe5wW1tYjtSEXrbROfulJfI8aT0LThwWZrliRk/s1600/IMG_5477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7pumAuVwP-n9L7qM2da2fUCcUS2NHZ5InaiHakv8vrPiySyZAVJCGyLi0gYx7ItRSRgDFc1HAnfuILbwEeVxxRWz-fjxGQr5M23ZsHUe5wW1tYjtSEXrbROfulJfI8aT0LThwWZrliRk/s1600/IMG_5477.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kindu, Reese and I, along with Uncle Jarrod feed the giraffe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOezjir7C8QW_Uv3ftAPnWmqPRmmef8IvCwapl5FzwJDEp5BbHCkedhANrxVz6B0DKz_7DrY7XngrXlp356bqfTpv6JcDWvnLVmAz_G65VveRJcPjDqNTywjSjWGL9_pxsnwoK1HTJ-xc/s1600/IMG_5532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOezjir7C8QW_Uv3ftAPnWmqPRmmef8IvCwapl5FzwJDEp5BbHCkedhANrxVz6B0DKz_7DrY7XngrXlp356bqfTpv6JcDWvnLVmAz_G65VveRJcPjDqNTywjSjWGL9_pxsnwoK1HTJ-xc/s1600/IMG_5532.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally made it to Myrtle Beach - Khris gives the annual Beach Safety Talk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMynxzIW3IoMyIQI7KbdfkTl067LSoizFBkpHtPayokq2_QDpnVIgnRXLuRSJZWfYt97lO_u50_Pyt9OI_PAQHatDi7suXPiifhPOXF7HbtWw3tzolQIcBJIy1HnSPXEhDl06IR53hmbJ/s1600/IMG_5533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMynxzIW3IoMyIQI7KbdfkTl067LSoizFBkpHtPayokq2_QDpnVIgnRXLuRSJZWfYt97lO_u50_Pyt9OI_PAQHatDi7suXPiifhPOXF7HbtWw3tzolQIcBJIy1HnSPXEhDl06IR53hmbJ/s1600/IMG_5533.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st ocean experience and a little boogie-board lesson</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdxdLOnS0AopFn920bEWojCMFgu31G0VdMCr7zos_IuPWT48kyK6wdCgolA4lKgxnFKE6GT93GN3ol75q66pAX9A7dcBQmrpmnzRyCY5kmxWoxghYkBfDTAbAVhSBl42V0RC6qCgF652J/s1600/IMG_5524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdxdLOnS0AopFn920bEWojCMFgu31G0VdMCr7zos_IuPWT48kyK6wdCgolA4lKgxnFKE6GT93GN3ol75q66pAX9A7dcBQmrpmnzRyCY5kmxWoxghYkBfDTAbAVhSBl42V0RC6qCgF652J/s1600/IMG_5524.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading out into the surf...Don't bite the sharks!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0Ui41_wuSgpjpz5-_eYvX8aca5RlPExTb-cVZ2kvYczIIUONrKvb3MG3jOSATMcZZbeVU9hTSNN7BbWGadN0Y1yIanaeX3Rphc6L4bT_b9qJsLKhBZvh5NLEXrnWQZpmxYWGKd7G_Jsd/s1600/IMG_5526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0Ui41_wuSgpjpz5-_eYvX8aca5RlPExTb-cVZ2kvYczIIUONrKvb3MG3jOSATMcZZbeVU9hTSNN7BbWGadN0Y1yIanaeX3Rphc6L4bT_b9qJsLKhBZvh5NLEXrnWQZpmxYWGKd7G_Jsd/s1600/IMG_5526.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OOPS!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCdNnCykKIJC7qBW_S-5GuzQTG8ScJrJsESg4GZzk1ixTyhzD7iuRtt_zxZYQJ4q19bCUNHo1JUWzRgIl1cPmnIDT_8Mh2w9cuQ64h7VSBOQWVUFcsc2PZh6KRd2wEvXqjrl97tEcYixq/s1600/IMG_5514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCdNnCykKIJC7qBW_S-5GuzQTG8ScJrJsESg4GZzk1ixTyhzD7iuRtt_zxZYQJ4q19bCUNHo1JUWzRgIl1cPmnIDT_8Mh2w9cuQ64h7VSBOQWVUFcsc2PZh6KRd2wEvXqjrl97tEcYixq/s1600/IMG_5514.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He caught on quick!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDTS3Bs0B21GlhWGCJYrTu-pFE661oAjhU7JTfZD5kB3ZmgOCE5FKRyvNqroE0OqS9yxfvmpQ1L8_1na0wx9Zx9eFBmGaM7SdCDIlWulzC0HWqxkLDv61yCHxuoBo7EJmR3VfPkXbcC5T/s1600/IMG_5529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDTS3Bs0B21GlhWGCJYrTu-pFE661oAjhU7JTfZD5kB3ZmgOCE5FKRyvNqroE0OqS9yxfvmpQ1L8_1na0wx9Zx9eFBmGaM7SdCDIlWulzC0HWqxkLDv61yCHxuoBo7EJmR3VfPkXbcC5T/s1600/IMG_5529.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the Little Rogi had a great 1st day at the beach <3</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v8gVeQ5I_qeX42kFsqu5vxueZ4w_sHYpIZRHNvLlE59H5fA-dtCPC_INAzHp-9AEcQ-CmfwFFNGQyrz3aybATyqbDH5p3nK0C2sqa2IdHz0oxj8zkUPEk1GRK1TdgMzuYRO65fLlqTIm/s1600/2014-06-03+18.07.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v8gVeQ5I_qeX42kFsqu5vxueZ4w_sHYpIZRHNvLlE59H5fA-dtCPC_INAzHp-9AEcQ-CmfwFFNGQyrz3aybATyqbDH5p3nK0C2sqa2IdHz0oxj8zkUPEk1GRK1TdgMzuYRO65fLlqTIm/s1600/2014-06-03+18.07.04.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love when we can capture these moments...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUEZ0VZW6cPK6tVkxatzRtJBVZxlKTz9cvK9-yarpFt_5jA43MmlgXFg7Dq-3yAcsm5g0wmfQvnWTkVqoPsSIpRt9SSgSgUrWJ6RFnWdecW7A4Mr8KhDOpMSxaiCRyrY47s_Zhag4nMwj/s1600/2014-06-03+18.29.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUEZ0VZW6cPK6tVkxatzRtJBVZxlKTz9cvK9-yarpFt_5jA43MmlgXFg7Dq-3yAcsm5g0wmfQvnWTkVqoPsSIpRt9SSgSgUrWJ6RFnWdecW7A4Mr8KhDOpMSxaiCRyrY47s_Zhag4nMwj/s1600/2014-06-03+18.29.45.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front of the Sphinx of Hard Rock Cafe in Myrtle Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRH1eQM6L1hs-eCNLEYlrAYPAFTBipW_8RbHoXMOQaMfkj4qJMkDtrzxar9Drm9L08yACjXAcHysBMdmu-D6W9qA_mieiIuUANo3JR2jsBrTuzpIgtkkkj1wNIcDvHyINReMTMGDsIdw4/s1600/2014-06-03+21.09.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRH1eQM6L1hs-eCNLEYlrAYPAFTBipW_8RbHoXMOQaMfkj4qJMkDtrzxar9Drm9L08yACjXAcHysBMdmu-D6W9qA_mieiIuUANo3JR2jsBrTuzpIgtkkkj1wNIcDvHyINReMTMGDsIdw4/s1600/2014-06-03+21.09.39.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st carousel ride - Broadway At The Beach in Myrtle</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlIHT7yxQAs_9awgQsYmVgWOpt4FhbYRl_aBkRCikxv0lnsFzUX6kI2jpVpEfdmqBMm-TiP3gMPxKGxkxX-Ed51vjx4z7_VJfqx-kOF7nc_rUJYN9oMxlpDEhv1gnlWoODFuDtO9Jx4Cj/s1600/2014-06-03+22.00.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlIHT7yxQAs_9awgQsYmVgWOpt4FhbYRl_aBkRCikxv0lnsFzUX6kI2jpVpEfdmqBMm-TiP3gMPxKGxkxX-Ed51vjx4z7_VJfqx-kOF7nc_rUJYN9oMxlpDEhv1gnlWoODFuDtO9Jx4Cj/s1600/2014-06-03+22.00.38.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st ever fireworks - Broadway At The Beach in Myrtle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywqVIDzIjDlmbvfokUB3l3j0r5cHdwWxS5Pb2c5eGv_lJvVWl6o14xKi4sEOHEM23hT81__R_cjmAF3VqUgPTCpuCUln9LvVjivz2BOznTZbvjpe9rV4Fk15IaGtlNfod52ZBHYLsaUgy/s1600/2014-06-04+16.09.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywqVIDzIjDlmbvfokUB3l3j0r5cHdwWxS5Pb2c5eGv_lJvVWl6o14xKi4sEOHEM23hT81__R_cjmAF3VqUgPTCpuCUln9LvVjivz2BOznTZbvjpe9rV4Fk15IaGtlNfod52ZBHYLsaUgy/s1600/2014-06-04+16.09.33.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little more swim time in the resort water park</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4tDBdlQgs4XChAdIE983GTdQ9yVYG1GNpS0Kg1xa2aqjZ59hqYpcTklhm-fINP3199H13mFyckqcdu2_qBluEkAaxShfgpFSMoFJTodo2R9N2BfaM77vG3gkPexUpS8VecdAA_K_Ye6y/s1600/2014-06-05+18.15.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4tDBdlQgs4XChAdIE983GTdQ9yVYG1GNpS0Kg1xa2aqjZ59hqYpcTklhm-fINP3199H13mFyckqcdu2_qBluEkAaxShfgpFSMoFJTodo2R9N2BfaM77vG3gkPexUpS8VecdAA_K_Ye6y/s1600/2014-06-05+18.15.17.jpg" height="138" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st dinner theater - Pirates Voyage</td></tr>
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We can't keep this guy out of the pool!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7xTor-c3k2d56zGI1TdePXHNpRPBQgYSqblgt9ySJweBCsNDL2dIBaIX2PCIqJDZRPRLs8idh6JPytG59VqqXRWRgoP2Dnn3_8KJHvA2WrwKtf7uP7TnnP2axR_EJne2kASZyX9wYVms/s1600/IMG_5568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7xTor-c3k2d56zGI1TdePXHNpRPBQgYSqblgt9ySJweBCsNDL2dIBaIX2PCIqJDZRPRLs8idh6JPytG59VqqXRWRgoP2Dnn3_8KJHvA2WrwKtf7uP7TnnP2axR_EJne2kASZyX9wYVms/s1600/IMG_5568.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the way home from the beach, we stopped in "Mayberry"---><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsUKQaXEjiR5M-J7TIUJrzsLHi73FR6CW18e2TMfJ804bbYdCt5rt35cuwCas0hATlI01T_AhQt67cbDL-9QmJ_N8r1gtDghkt0poXtEd8334iaq7Q55A-xaOV0HueGzvElYgp_1WRodg/s1600/IMG_5603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsUKQaXEjiR5M-J7TIUJrzsLHi73FR6CW18e2TMfJ804bbYdCt5rt35cuwCas0hATlI01T_AhQt67cbDL-9QmJ_N8r1gtDghkt0poXtEd8334iaq7Q55A-xaOV0HueGzvElYgp_1WRodg/s1600/IMG_5603.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">KK L-O-V-E-S the Andy Griffith Show</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIeADco12Ey-sIGIXQ-5flxMyp3UJOzIssR2XEfYkik45D_bn9A3gl4sP4k9bRVKAIrJ8LxJSm7G0kcuGY61AvNLyLasYIx-JdB6Pli9oFgrSSpNx7GDLpQBItBSaLIZHfppgJfrHqd0M/s1600/2014-06-07+07.38.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMIeADco12Ey-sIGIXQ-5flxMyp3UJOzIssR2XEfYkik45D_bn9A3gl4sP4k9bRVKAIrJ8LxJSm7G0kcuGY61AvNLyLasYIx-JdB6Pli9oFgrSSpNx7GDLpQBItBSaLIZHfppgJfrHqd0M/s1600/2014-06-07+07.38.45.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the road again... DD iced cap, breakfast sandwich and a smile as he watches a movie on the way home</td></tr>
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This summer has been packed with trips to the zoo & the swimming pool. We even got to spend time with another friend from Ethiopia who came down with his family for a little down time in Columbus---></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZRWaqnh6Oqm0E8scP5L9sALhtMXnxuphnySLUwTh4xtVfNlqaFtxTcMMF3JU-V0mknp-vCZLmWjTvfWqSc_N7rXilEXGt2Kv6mW-ruwG7dPGVBa9yWEfyADrhFzHpKbVG9C7sQdBrMYX/s1600/IMG_5717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZRWaqnh6Oqm0E8scP5L9sALhtMXnxuphnySLUwTh4xtVfNlqaFtxTcMMF3JU-V0mknp-vCZLmWjTvfWqSc_N7rXilEXGt2Kv6mW-ruwG7dPGVBa9yWEfyADrhFzHpKbVG9C7sQdBrMYX/s1600/IMG_5717.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kindu, Dagim, Reese, Abe, KK & Lily</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">His personality is starting to come out as he gets more comfortable with the family---></span></div>
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We did a little camping and hiking while Khris and KK were in California---></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3xoryllrTUWkSqu5u1WKP7zi7fGu0HD0pIIlk2RNrlmHt544HyTqShMSBzcCqLT3ow_9M02Q9zoLTuKsY3eh_80wQPo8li_BAPgNcSL5mGSOvgkyd7ZuwRml21QoLPwNochm4uBrsgqdv/s1600/2014-07-08+19.39.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3xoryllrTUWkSqu5u1WKP7zi7fGu0HD0pIIlk2RNrlmHt544HyTqShMSBzcCqLT3ow_9M02Q9zoLTuKsY3eh_80wQPo8li_BAPgNcSL5mGSOvgkyd7ZuwRml21QoLPwNochm4uBrsgqdv/s1600/2014-07-08+19.39.15.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st camping trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBKT8EXM5oSpcfVk0ih8NYi3lKPkUNggqJEnXyBAL0Aq8Hx2gEAVoI0RE5KFpRWpARHnNCy_zQBKRIjonQcD8rGh0qCRX09zAI-CiD8ATAgvepGdzmrs0l3b89SiQOOpqlweZXpp1up1sj/s1600/2014-07-08+19.55.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBKT8EXM5oSpcfVk0ih8NYi3lKPkUNggqJEnXyBAL0Aq8Hx2gEAVoI0RE5KFpRWpARHnNCy_zQBKRIjonQcD8rGh0qCRX09zAI-CiD8ATAgvepGdzmrs0l3b89SiQOOpqlweZXpp1up1sj/s1600/2014-07-08+19.55.49.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swim goggles were Kindu's BRILLIANT idea for keeping the smoke out of his eyes while he roasted marshmallows #genius</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA88NrphJDo2IYHJTKRT_RiOzADpFvop8zUmaC65yDZi_VZb1VhnVfDbQjsPefIhcr4PDINytI82QPjAQzkyBA36EJ8D3P9OXz6uIDrQal7XV5litYuwKol9dlW2Bqn8uNj1PbIa_VzTZB/s1600/2014-07-10+16.08.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA88NrphJDo2IYHJTKRT_RiOzADpFvop8zUmaC65yDZi_VZb1VhnVfDbQjsPefIhcr4PDINytI82QPjAQzkyBA36EJ8D3P9OXz6uIDrQal7XV5litYuwKol9dlW2Bqn8uNj1PbIa_VzTZB/s1600/2014-07-10+16.08.41.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Man's Cave selfie</td></tr>
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Here we are at 8 months home and Kindu's English is AMAZING, he is beginning to read short-A 3-letter words; he knows and can write his full name, address and phone number; gives hugs and I-love-yous freely, AND he will on occasion sass me in perfect English (that means attachment right? Ha!). </div>
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We thank God for bringing Kindu home and we are thoroughly enjoying the new Rogers-Family-Of-6.</div>
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Blessings to you all!</div>
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Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens,</div>
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Your faithfulness to the clouds</div>
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Psalm 36:5</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-79395235556589978352013-12-09T05:14:00.001-08:002013-12-09T08:16:45.535-08:00Looking Toward Bringing Kindu Home<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><i>**</i></b><i><b>This is a very long post, so please bear with me. Grab a mug of your favorite steamy beverage and settle in - it's important for me to know that those who are close to us have read the entire post - thanks**</b></i></span><br />
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Much like bringing home a newborn, bringing home an adopted child from a foreign country, I suspect, will be VERY similar. <br />
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<b>With newborn KK, </b>I didn't know how to meet some of her needs right away. There were times that she cried when NOTHING I did could soothe her short of taking a 3am drive around I-270. Yes, we made that drive...Khris and I each took a turn and once she was asleep, we just left her in the infant carrier the rest of the night. We did NOT want her to wake up!<br />
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<b>Bringing Kindu home,</b> there's a language barrier, so I won't always understand his needs either. I'm learning a little of his Amharic language and can sort of communicate with him to <i><b>hopefully</b></i> meet his basic needs. Until he learns English, we'll be playing a LOT of charades!<br />
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<b>With newborn Lily,</b> she came out screaming 10 days early because just a couple hours before I was induced with her, she was breech. This little one was set in her ways from the beginning. She even screamed right through her first few feedings. We had quite an adjustment as she grew accustomed to her new surroundings.<br />
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<b>Bringing Kindu home,</b> he will be coming into our family with nothing but himself. He has no possessions - we even have to give back the clothes on his back when we pick him up. He's coming into a completely different culture where everything will be very different - from table manners to holidays, his world is about to change drastically. Yes, we are anticipating some screaming from him too.<br />
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<b>With newborn Reese, </b>I had a busy preschooler and a very <strike>mischievous</strike> curious toddler also in the mix. Their needs were just as important as baby Reese's needs and I had to figure out how to juggle all of that and not lose my mind.<br />
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<b>Bringing Kindu home, </b>he's coming into an established household. All of us have our roles to play - our own responsibilities - for this family to operate like a well-oiled machine. ALL of the Rogi will be adjusting to new roles as sisters having to be more independent with their homeschooling, brother sharing a room for the first time, and parents of now 4 Little Rogi. <br />
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<b>Khris and I</b> will still be needing to meet ALL 4 Little Rogi's needs without neglecting each other's. This is difficult enough without adding another child, newborn or not, to the mix. Cooking meals, keeping up with school, not forsaking together time or individual time for each Little Rogi will be a challenge.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All this to say,</span> there are some things we have yet to address with our loving family members and church family that we think are very important. A lot of this I have been thinking about and haven't found very easy to articulate. I love how my sweet friend, <a href="http://pennypickles.net/blog/2013/11/03/counting-down/">Annie, over at PennyPickles.net</a> has written these things so I am using her post as a springboard for this one - with permission, of course ;-) <i>(Annie and her hubby, Ryan were our suite-mates at the guest house in Ethiopia for our court trip).</i> Also, <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2011/09/06/after-the-airport">Jen Hatmaker's post, "After the Airport" is quite helpful.</a><br />
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: : CLUELESS: We have NO IDEA what to expect when we bring Kindu home. Our hearts are prepared for loving on him, but we don't know what to expect as far as how he will respond to this BIG change. We have read the adoption/attachment books, had training for interracial adoption families, and we have a support network through our fellow adoptive parents with our agency and locally. We have played out worst-case-scenarios in our heads and we have met Kindu and spent time with him...in HIS country and culture. Kindu was an easygoing boy who seemed to be rattled by very little. Here at home, it could be a whole new ballgame. Or not. Thus we are clueless.<br />
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: : THRILLED: We are thrilled to be adding Kindu to our family. We have followed the LORD's lead on this adoption and trust that He intends Kindu for our family. Miracle after miracle has occurred for all the paperwork, logistics and funds to be in place. <b>Adoption isn't all rainbows and cotton candy though.</b> Kindu has endured much loss in his 6 1/2 years as well as trauma that no child should have ever seen or endured. He is leaving everything he knows. While we are very excited to welcome him home, please understand that we are embracing this change and will be grieving and coping, right alongside of our son, through all he's lost in order to gain The Rogi as a family. As my pal <a href="http://pennypickles.net/blog/2013/11/03/counting-down/">Annie says, "It's nothing short of tragic."</a><br />
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: : EXCITED: While we receive reports that Kindu is excited to join our family and is anxious for us to come get him, I'm pretty sure that if given the choice, he would choose his own birth family to remain intact. <b>We don't think that Kindu should feel grateful or lucky to be joining the Rogi in America.</b> Of course he will have some opportunities that he may have never been given without being adopted, but really, God's will for all of us is to have an intact, God-fearing family. Because we live in a fallen world, this just isn't a reality for many like Kindu. So, with his life taking a left-turn to America, we will be loving him through whatever may be difficult for him as he walks this journey. <b>So, don't assume he feels lucky or grateful, and please don't ask him if he's excited to be in America with a new family.</b><br />
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: : COCOONING: What's that? This is a method of developing a strong, trusting, secure relationship between us and our newly adopted child (<a href="http://www.lianalowenstein.com/articlesParentAdoptedChild.pdf">see more here</a>). Essentially, our plan is to lay low for a few weeks. Depending on how Kindu responds to coming home, we plan to take a break from E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G. Well, at least me (Michelle) and the kids do. You probably won't see Kindu and I at church or homeschool gym or (maybe) even the barn (unless it's an equine therapy emergency!). I won't be taking him to the store or out to eat at any restaurants. <b>We probably won't welcome any visitors either for the first few weeks, but we'd LOVE to see you all at the airport when we arrive so you all can meet & greet him and make him feel special for those first few moments home.</b><br />
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: : HELP: Although I find it difficult to ask, let it be known, I. WILL. NEED. HELP. With each newborn homecoming, people offered all manner of help, i.e. meals, cleaning, shopping, playdates for the older Little Rogi, etc. I will definitely take you up on any of those offers once Kindu is home. I have been the one in the past to coordinate things like this (or at least delegate the duty to someone else), but I'm NOT going to coordinate any of that for myself. If you feel led to provide any of the aforementioned, don't ask, JUST DO! <a href="http://pennypickles.net/blog/2013/11/03/counting-down/">Here's how Annie put it, </a> "<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Century Gothic', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">I won’t turn you down. I remember when my mom was sick and dying and people would say to her and me – 'what do you need?' or 'please let me know what I can do' etc. You don’t take advantage of those things because really who wants to call a person and say – 'hey, I need a dinner, when can you make one for me?' I mean just sit on that one for a minute. I dare anyone to say they’d be comfortable making that call. No? It’s just me then, I’m not comfortable making that call." </span>Don't ya just love Annie's candor? I sure do! ;-) Please don't forget about me all holed up here at home either. I can tend to become a homebody sometimes, but I also get to a point of stir-craziness. I will absolutely appreciate any emails, cards, texts, tweets, and phone calls, I assure you <3 FYI, coffee, chocolate and french fries are my love language - hee hee!<br />
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Our plan is to take each day as it comes, knowing that God's mercies are new every morning. Please keep us in your prayers as we take on THE. BIGGEST. CHANGE. EVER. in the Rogi history and know we appreciate all your love and support as we have taken this journey. <br />
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If you would like to talk about any of this or ask any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me or comment below. I'm open to continuing the conversation.<br />
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Love you all,<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4hoS5yfKDigbUdRgSJwQk2lx7e9W6Y_l2ITqpvouxPvQjISG4i_4wnZkD3T0AwwI3d9ScVIXcFHgmD4V7m_AD1IVXZWWaURG080ths8khOWQNvBZji_iS_bH5N7ZezLfSmYjOMedSYFs/s1600/blog+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4hoS5yfKDigbUdRgSJwQk2lx7e9W6Y_l2ITqpvouxPvQjISG4i_4wnZkD3T0AwwI3d9ScVIXcFHgmD4V7m_AD1IVXZWWaURG080ths8khOWQNvBZji_iS_bH5N7ZezLfSmYjOMedSYFs/s1600/blog+sig.png" style="cursor: move;" /></a><i>The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; </i></div>
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<i>his mercies never come to an end; </i></div>
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<i>they are new every morning; </i></div>
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<i>great is your faithfulness.</i></div>
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<i>(Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-11644899057858113922013-12-05T10:40:00.001-08:002013-12-10T06:57:00.935-08:00Update & a Little Song Dedication<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">UPDATE on the Rogi & Embassy:</span><br />
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Friday will mark 17 weeks since we passed court. You may recall the timeline I listed on my last post. It took several weeks for our case to be considered for submission to <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/11/trifecta-aka-embassy-triple-threat.html"><b>US Embassy and the "Trifecta"</b></a> I mentioned concerning Embassy's requests:<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">1. Birth Father Documentation: </span>Now we (by "we" I mean America World and whoever they have requested info/docs from) have now had a search done outside of Kindu's birth-city. We learned that Kindu's birth-father was not found. The local police are following up with their own investigation and we are hoping to get that document that Embassy wanted way back in September!<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">2. Document Inconsistencies: </span>AW and the translation office are working to correct these translation errors. This should be complete very soon if not done already. <br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">3. Birth Relative Interviews: </span>Embassy interviewed the birth-mother on Monday this week - <span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">check!</span> The older sister has NOT been found to schedule an interview and we JUST heard that <span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">Embassy is waiving that request - Woot! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">Progress! </span>We are thankful for these little progressions in our case. <br />
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We do have some specific <span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">prayer requests:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. </span>the police would complete their investigation PRONTO and write up the documents that Embassy has requested in order for us to clear. <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">**UPDATE 12/7/13** THIS is the LAST PIECE to embassy's requests. It COULD be done for all we know, the powers-that-be have been unreachable all week to confirm the status. Please keep praying! </span><span style="color: #38761d;">**UPDATE 12/9/13** The police wrote our document! They should have faxed it to our agency on 12/10, translated (1-2days), then submitted to embassy. We could clear THIS WEEK!!!!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. </span>for the translation office to finish our documents so they can be submitted no later than the police doc. <span style="color: #cc0000;"> <b>**UPDATE 12/7/13** We learned on Friday that this IS complete - Praise the LORD for answered prayer!</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3.<span style="color: #741b47;"> </span></span><span style="color: #741b47;">KINDU</span>: he's asking after us...please pray for his sweet soul as he waits for us. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4.</span> <span style="color: #741b47;">FUNDING</span>: we are still accepting donations to cover our travel and post-adoption expenses. We are FUNdraiser-ed Out, so if you feel led, please feel free to use the DONATE button at the top of the sidebar or you can contact me for mailing address to send a check or whatever... talesoftherogi (at) gmail (dot) com.<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">This little ditty goes out to...</span><br />
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Our family is NOT alone in this stuff. There are 4 other families from our agency that we have become close to who are dealing with hold-ups regarding US Embassy's requests for MORE info. In years past, the evidence that all these families have has been sufficient to pass. Anyway, please continue to pray for The Rogi as well as these other families who are *STUCK* in these delays...these kids just want to be home with their new families...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Omj8BMxl9a0?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
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a song inspired by orphans in Haiti and the families hoping to adopt them</div>
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lyrics</h3>
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Verse 1:<br />
From sun's rising to its setting<br />
Orphans call upon your name<br />
Crying Abba, Saying Father<br />
We trust you to make a way<br />
For us, for love<br />
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Chorus:<br />
Bring our children home<br />
Bring our children home<br />
We sing Abba, Father you are able<br />
To bring our children home<br />
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Verse 2:<br />
In the morning through the evening<br />
Families pray and praise your name<br />
Asking Abba to be Father<br />
Rescuing the one's he's claimed<br />
For us to love<br />
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Bridge:<br />
When we cannot see you moving<br />
When it seems the dark has won<br />
May you find us still believing<br />
That you want this more than us<br />
You will finish what you started<br />
And your plans for us are good<br />
Help us cling to what you promised<br />
You are faithful, you are sure to<br />
(back to chorus)</div>
<h3 class="credits-label" style="background-color: #371535; color: #d9d9a1; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; left: -10000px; position: absolute; top: -10000px;">
credits</h3>
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from <a href="http://music.nodoubleyellowline.com/album/no-double-yellow-line" style="color: #ba980d; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">No Double Yellow Line</a>, track released 01 June 2011<br />
Bring Our Children Home:<br />
Words and Music: Cindy Foote<br />
©2010 Centricity Music Publishing/Billy Foote<br />
Songs/ASCAP</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-77778412286749965232013-11-13T09:10:00.000-08:002013-11-18T05:03:13.258-08:00Trifecta AKA Embassy-Triple-Threat<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday marked <span style="font-size: large;">3 years</span> since The Lord put it on both of our hearts that it was time to consider adoption.</div>
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It's been <span style="font-size: large;">2 years & 3 months</span> </div>
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since we began our paper chase.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 year & 8 months </span>since DTE - </div>
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our dossier was sent to Ethiopia.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2G6YrgSCeKJTR7yyXD_MPysCwDe0GrkZVchfKMtTZfJ5aJBC7HjGP6KuCOKT_9DJQMfeNvEpxfTUZDZY629dHqE2UPFPjQ_qVQ3Q9z21bCtzEYr8-3Asw1BnFFJnPgzZhnfu1yUat4tmo/s1600/IMG_2101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2G6YrgSCeKJTR7yyXD_MPysCwDe0GrkZVchfKMtTZfJ5aJBC7HjGP6KuCOKT_9DJQMfeNvEpxfTUZDZY629dHqE2UPFPjQ_qVQ3Q9z21bCtzEYr8-3Asw1BnFFJnPgzZhnfu1yUat4tmo/s1600/IMG_2101.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See that? Paper-Pregnant!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitHsJrrq0dzMkdFv7CBVEizm5zzaxOJ-WttiFB2W9k4AKkHHt2tmaGjjVmMEliDhiW_O_glj3h6nzgcEAehKnp7xEJVn07-G5diEkpRj0xmMJof764ZToDAFPP-_V1m96wXzaOl7ZmxZ6/s1600/IMG_2102.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitHsJrrq0dzMkdFv7CBVEizm5zzaxOJ-WttiFB2W9k4AKkHHt2tmaGjjVmMEliDhiW_O_glj3h6nzgcEAehKnp7xEJVn07-G5diEkpRj0xmMJof764ZToDAFPP-_V1m96wXzaOl7ZmxZ6/s1600/IMG_2102.CR2" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dossier ready to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We waited <span style="font-size: large;">15 months</span> for a referral - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that has been <span style="font-size: large;">5 months ago</span> now.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0O7aznMPdlgD1NRRujTh-Al2gfYARt6KPklfWkChDq2Z_9R_RUqxp1uI7pE4uwckYHhmq32s8igrUTHdkxXXjRUewl0uWHxpzJD0-1UTtiL6eU-RLhsQPsZ3Woi7RaiR5LWpfgNC2IoD/s1600/Kindu+Referral+photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo0O7aznMPdlgD1NRRujTh-Al2gfYARt6KPklfWkChDq2Z_9R_RUqxp1uI7pE4uwckYHhmq32s8igrUTHdkxXXjRUewl0uWHxpzJD0-1UTtiL6eU-RLhsQPsZ3Woi7RaiR5LWpfgNC2IoD/s1600/Kindu+Referral+photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our very first picture of Kindu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">13 weeks</span> ago we traveled to meet Kindu </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and passed court.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CN-oeBj6tgBGh5A8GPx6wbHfR1FxgFrLO0YA6jmeoUj0OyGqOnloyLQYWjR_j4oC5WrBQkyoqOzk7NmDlLND1BUU7lfJCjczcYwbFyuf39EmZSfMrmg_1xkq1jDH91tZ5AKltVIsGYc_/s1600/lunch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CN-oeBj6tgBGh5A8GPx6wbHfR1FxgFrLO0YA6jmeoUj0OyGqOnloyLQYWjR_j4oC5WrBQkyoqOzk7NmDlLND1BUU7lfJCjczcYwbFyuf39EmZSfMrmg_1xkq1jDH91tZ5AKltVIsGYc_/s1600/lunch.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">9 weeks</span> ago our agency, America World, attempted to submit us to embassy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">7 of those weeks</span> were spent attempting to gather Embassy-requested documentation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now <span style="font-size: large;">1 week ago</span>, we were <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/11/finally.html" target="_blank">Finally!</a></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
submitted to embassy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">5 days </span>since initial screening has been done and we have been awaiting news of whether Embassy wants additional documentation, corrections of current documents, birth family interviews, or that they would simply clear us.</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">TRIFECTA!</span><br />
Not only did we <span style="font-size: large;">NOT</span> clear,<br />
but we got the <span style="font-size: large;">Embassy-Triple-Threat!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoadTGpfrNUzyJKpaWu9OW7t0s8Gr5LrCiE58efs50JkQvQS_O9vaP90d6TBamjw4T_vC5wF_F5QCj-ROBnBttIMwlI9ePxfwrfxZMaqYbX-bcOyZx4gK_Dj-rJEPzeI4twDVC8JrtZkXf/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoadTGpfrNUzyJKpaWu9OW7t0s8Gr5LrCiE58efs50JkQvQS_O9vaP90d6TBamjw4T_vC5wF_F5QCj-ROBnBttIMwlI9ePxfwrfxZMaqYbX-bcOyZx4gK_Dj-rJEPzeI4twDVC8JrtZkXf/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whatchoo talkin' 'bout?!?<br />
My sentiments exactly, bud!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1. We're back to square one with the birth father documentation. They want proof of a search or police document of his reported disappearance. Nobody reported him missing. We need a plan B.<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">**UPDATE: I have written to 2 reps to congress and both Ohio senators. I plan on being a squeaky wheel... Please pray this is effective.</span><br />
<br />
2. The documents they DO have, show some inconsistencies, so they want those fixed. Ok.<br />
<br />
3. They want a phone interview with the birth mother AND a meeting to interview his older biological sister. That will take time to set up.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">PLEASE PRAY</span><br />
<br />
Would you pray with us that this all goes quickly? We kinda had our hopes up that we would clear and be leaving early next week. Our hopes are not completely dashed but we are admittedly disappointed.<br />
<br />
Perhaps this is a grace from The Lord, allowing time to raise the necessary funds for travel. We have been praying for The Lord's provision to take the 3 Homegrown Rogi with us to Ethiopia, and the funds aren't quite there. In fact, we really only have enough for just one of us to go. Khris and I both feel that neither of us want the other to travel alone.<br />
<br />
So, if you feel led, would you please consider sending a donation for our adoption travel fund? You can use the donate button at the top of the right hand column using Paypal to donate directly. If you'd prefer, we are happy to take a cash/check donation. Email me to get a mailing address and or additional details. Talesoftherogi (at) gmail (dot) com<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's pray this sweet boy home!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkl8OzrzpdILHS31UQZLNqNJydKl3UxU9fb2zw8hucAf_wub-Qv46tbBo7J-4s3uTHRf2f-1wIBCgOtCsCWaPx6-xPE41ACYyjt-20ibF0dW4EpHNAFmtr3ziZHiN-Ac_da5OErIOH7qi/s1600/DSC_0112+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkl8OzrzpdILHS31UQZLNqNJydKl3UxU9fb2zw8hucAf_wub-Qv46tbBo7J-4s3uTHRf2f-1wIBCgOtCsCWaPx6-xPE41ACYyjt-20ibF0dW4EpHNAFmtr3ziZHiN-Ac_da5OErIOH7qi/s1600/DSC_0112+(2).jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-13073484991070502242013-11-07T19:12:00.001-08:002013-11-07T19:12:41.823-08:00Finally!This week's Rogers Family Update:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">12</span> weeks since we passed court.<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_370789104"></span><span id="goog_370789105"></span><span style="font-size: large;">8</span> weeks since America World attempted to submit us to US Embassy.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">7</span> weeks for additional documentation to come through.<br />
<br />
We were <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Finally!</span> submitted to embassy on Monday. We are praising the LORD for this overcome obstacle. Now we're praying for quick screening and clearance so that we can <span style="font-size: large;">bring Kindu HOME!</span><br />
<br />
We received an email today that the initial screening is complete. We should hear by the end of next week whether US Embassy will request additional documentation, a birth family or "finder" interview, or clear us for travel. This is a very exciting time!<br />
<br />
We are also in the final crunch-time for raising the rest of our funds. Depending on what Embassy says next week, we could be traveling as soon as two weeks from now - or sooner!<br />
<br />
We prayed and asked the LORD for provision for getting our three bio-kids' passports.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b>God said, "Yes."</b></div>
<br />
We prayed for His provision for the cost of travel vaccinations for them.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
Again, <b>God said, "Yes,"</b> and they are ready to go!</div>
<br />
Lastly we are asking for His provision for the travel expenses so that we can travel <b>together as a family</b> to go to Ethiopia and <span style="font-size: large;">welcome Kindu</span> into our family...<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;">to make our family whole on the spot!</span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/adoption-cost.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Our costs</span></b></a> have been miraculously covered to this point and we believe that <b>GOD WILL</b> provide if it's <b>HIS WILL</b> for the first three Little Rogi to be there for <b><span style="color: #990000;">Gotcha Day! </span></b><br />
<br />
We have applied for a few adoption grants - maybe those will be part of that provision.<br />
<br />
At this point, we are DONE with the FUNdraisers, so now we are just straight-up asking:<br />
<br />
Will <b>YOU</b> partner with us <b>ONE MORE TIME</b> to <b>UNITE the ROGI</b>? To <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">bring Kindu home</span> forever?<br />
<br />
We are estimating our need to be around $11,000 for all of us to go. To you and I, <span style="font-size: large;">that sounds massive</span>, but if it is <b>God's will</b> - we know that<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b>it <span style="font-size: large;">will</span> be accomplished.</b> </div>
<br />
Please, <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">don't</span> look at that number and say,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">"my gift is too small." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Every dollar is significant</b></span>, and every donation is noted by our<b> <span style="font-size: large;">King of kings</span></b>. <br />
<br />
Thank you for all you have done thus far, and thank you for helping us complete this journey.<br />
<br />
Donations can be made to our Adoption Fund through the paypal link at the top of the right hand column. We can accept checks or cash too if you're not too keen on the whole paypal thing. <br />
Email talesoftherogi (at) gmail (dot) com for a mailing address.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"God sets the lonely in families..." Psalm 68:6</i></span></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-7974312303852960502013-10-06T16:02:00.003-07:002013-10-06T16:05:01.045-07:00Thirty-One Gifts ContinuesI had SOOO much fun Friday night! We had more than 10 lovely ladies over for the Thirty-One Gifts fundraiser to bring Kindu home. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-rO_4qzaJK7V7Dq9KFENmpqwT0gF288eO1pKfIqvhvBhtkSS1xwAEFvoGqoDisa4GySNvWTlTinyqPGmgF23cVdbVkgAOJrltgZ5duJc_F0UB7xWt5PHnvRC_oB221zaV-9wafwC_4Ae/s1600/IMG_4820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-rO_4qzaJK7V7Dq9KFENmpqwT0gF288eO1pKfIqvhvBhtkSS1xwAEFvoGqoDisa4GySNvWTlTinyqPGmgF23cVdbVkgAOJrltgZ5duJc_F0UB7xWt5PHnvRC_oB221zaV-9wafwC_4Ae/s1600/IMG_4820.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our fabulous Thirty-One sales rep, Cathleen, gives us the run-down</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Jlr7f_JjUJ8LrOkS4aeAj7pELtEvAhNScTF9xJ377KayAwGGrmfGiiCFmvMHR-Guuwh7WYX1O_MF8bqx5DohyphenhyphenpkmHdtg4Yh1WKUyPhnUtLMfeQishRiwsB3RSU7u7JhZ7172X9YGNqkS/s1600/IMG_4822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Jlr7f_JjUJ8LrOkS4aeAj7pELtEvAhNScTF9xJ377KayAwGGrmfGiiCFmvMHR-Guuwh7WYX1O_MF8bqx5DohyphenhyphenpkmHdtg4Yh1WKUyPhnUtLMfeQishRiwsB3RSU7u7JhZ7172X9YGNqkS/s1600/IMG_4822.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our guests and Thirty-One fashion models-in-training</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpla9_o19vCd0AMYWCHSfuTs392AWBgrf_ojHf1hZCUKpJ7CPfo_dWBl_kYDCTBGZ5r-A1FKa9Cy7RnHVTJ0ncpbX3XarMGzRWhlNWWHUQJGfwc6Q0tKdSd0APNLCLzZB7u3TWUCc-a0Xo/s1600/IMG_4823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpla9_o19vCd0AMYWCHSfuTs392AWBgrf_ojHf1hZCUKpJ7CPfo_dWBl_kYDCTBGZ5r-A1FKa9Cy7RnHVTJ0ncpbX3XarMGzRWhlNWWHUQJGfwc6Q0tKdSd0APNLCLzZB7u3TWUCc-a0Xo/s1600/IMG_4823.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some more of our lovely bag-lovin' ladies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsOMqkgcjIGlVS8H3g10FgdVPzan5ugehHvG5iZdTD3KesOM4EoT7x83txA8NZl6Rtinv1JkPmoQZ3ah5_0xncM5MpTeCfCsAmL7VAvVwaSSpLawQ3RuRLgJu7UwIa-s_NsWe807Kioik/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsOMqkgcjIGlVS8H3g10FgdVPzan5ugehHvG5iZdTD3KesOM4EoT7x83txA8NZl6Rtinv1JkPmoQZ3ah5_0xncM5MpTeCfCsAmL7VAvVwaSSpLawQ3RuRLgJu7UwIa-s_NsWe807Kioik/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh yes, there was chocolate - Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies<br />
There was also some other delicious treats...apple cake, <br />
pumpkin ganache cake, and spinach dip...you missed it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div>
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Raffle Winner</span> ---> Ruby Cordova was our first raffle winner on Friday night at the party.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/catalog.thirtyonegifts.com/images/Spring13/products/3405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/catalog.thirtyonegifts.com/images/Spring13/products/3405.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby's prize, the Party Thermal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">There are still 3 bags to raffle off on Friday</span></b> (see which bags are being raffled <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/09/thirty-one-gifts-for-rogers-family.html" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>), so get your tickets directly from me or purchase them using the PayPal link at the top of the right-hand column---></div>
<div>
Be sure to tell me in the "notes" section of your PayPal transaction that your donation is for the raffle (tickets are $10 each). <span style="color: #990000;"><b>We will receive 100% of your donation to bring Kindu home.</b></span></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>The party is still open</b></span>, so you can <b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="mailto:talesoftherogi@gmail.com" target="_blank">email me</a></span></b> <span style="font-size: large;">to place an order or go to </span><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/ckellar/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Cathleen's Thirty-One site</span></b></a> under "My Parties" to shop. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank you all for all your love and support in bringing Kindu home. If he only knew, he'd say, "thank you," too... <br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>A little update</b></span>: we are still waiting on an important document so America World can submit us to Embassy to get Kindu's visa. Please keep praying for this document and our submission and a speedy clearance.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGi3WYBSihDa1XlzblVShot2eymkwmf2LNNpsq0FrK-fihJXev1pYwdJIHlhjXHxXRyZ_4hWWQ8bNZhLunJeVHC_fe-e7GxAfgKmr-9MyCvDaXY1Exmb3fK_YpITSzucIB11duGfwWJtO/s1600/DSC_0119+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGi3WYBSihDa1XlzblVShot2eymkwmf2LNNpsq0FrK-fihJXev1pYwdJIHlhjXHxXRyZ_4hWWQ8bNZhLunJeVHC_fe-e7GxAfgKmr-9MyCvDaXY1Exmb3fK_YpITSzucIB11duGfwWJtO/s1600/DSC_0119+(2).jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't he so handsome? <br />
Oh how we miss him...let's get him HOME!<br />
<i>PS, big thanks to the Bice family for this pic <br />and delivering that care package</i></td></tr>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-90076214002540467552013-09-25T09:07:00.000-07:002013-09-25T14:37:10.302-07:00Thirty-One Gifts for the Rogers Family AdoptionHere it is & Just in time for some Christmas shopping! We are hosting a <span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><a href="https://mythirtyone.com/ckellar/" target="_blank"><b>Thirty-One Gifts</b></a></span> party to raise funds for the remainder of our adoption expenses. Would you believe we are <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">*almost*</span> funded? We have about $9000 to go for final travel and post adoption expenses. I see the light!<br />
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Thirty-One Party Details:</h3>
When: Friday October 4th<br />
What time: 7pm<br />
Where: My House! (Please email talesoftherogi@gmail.com to request the address)<br />
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Fundraiser:</h3>
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The fundraiser items are the listed October Specials. Purchased at full price, we will receive the difference for our adoption fund. <i><b>This works best if you order from me directly instead of through the website, paying with check or cash (we can work out those details, just email me).</b></i><br />
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See the listed items here:<br />
<a href="http://assets.thirtyonetoday.com.s3.amazonaws.com/monthy-specials/2013/October/october-special-flier.pdf">http://assets.thirtyonetoday.com.s3.amazonaws.com/monthy-specials/2013/October/october-special-flier.pdf</a><br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000;">**If you're unable to attend, but would like to shop, go to</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/ckellar/">https://www.mythirtyone.com/ckellar/</a>, </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000;">click the "My Parties" tab, </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000;">then select "Shop Now" next to </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000;">"Michelle's FUNdraiser Party."**</span></i></b></div>
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Raffle $10 donation: </h3>
Our wonderful Thirty-One consultant has donated <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><i><b>4</b></i></span> items for the raffle. <b><i><span style="color: #990000;">We will receive 100% proceeds from the raffle.</span></i></b> If you're local, you can buy your raffle tickets directly from me. For online raffle ticket donations, use the <i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>BRING KINDU HOME </b></i>Paypal button at the top of the sidebar. Please indicate that your donation is for the raffle and how many raffle tickets you are buying. I will email you with your ticket numbers.<br />
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Here's what's up for raffle (*actual items may not be color/pattern shown):<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/images/product_images/3121C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://www.mythirtyone.com/images/product_images/3121C.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large Utility Tote</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medium Utility Tote</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://d3tfyotx1wir2p.cloudfront.net/images/fall13/products/4093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://d3tfyotx1wir2p.cloudfront.net/images/fall13/products/4093.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy Breezy Tote</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/catalog.thirtyonegifts.com/images/Spring13/products/3405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/catalog.thirtyonegifts.com/images/Spring13/products/3405.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Party Thermal</td></tr>
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This is our gracious Thirty-One consultant, Cathleen. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/ckellar/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://www.mythirtyone.com/images/photo/53007.jpg?ts=635156959730548115" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #777777; font-family: 'normal arial', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: start;">cathleens31gifts</span><wbr style="background-color: white; color: #777777; font-family: 'normal arial', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: start;"></wbr><span style="background-color: white; color: #777777; font-family: 'normal arial', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: start;">@gmail.com</span></td></tr>
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Please contact her in the future to host your Thirty-One Gifts party! </div>
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If you'd simply like to donate directly to our adoption fund, use the <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b>BRING KINDU HOME</b></i></span> Paypal button at the top of the sidebar. <br />
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Please continue to pray for us as we await submission to embassy and clearance to bring Kindu home! Thanks so much!<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-76656732196830643332013-09-23T12:45:00.000-07:002013-09-23T12:51:01.393-07:006+ Weeks Post Court + Coming soon: Thirty-One Gifts PartyJust a little update... we were hoping to be submitted to embassy 8/28, but it looked like our documents were not quite ready. Then our hope was that we would be submitted to embassy on Sept. 4. Here we are almost 4 weeks after that and no submission. Between the Ethiopian New Year holiday on the 18th and now US Embassy asking for additional documentation (for something that is all over his file :-/ ), we have yet to be submitted for the final wait.<br />
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We're not quite sure how long it will take for our family to clear embassy once we are submitted. We've seen a family clear in as little as two weeks. We've also seen much, MUCH longer. Would you pray with us that we would get this document and be submitted this week, AND that we clear and can travel back to get Kindu as quickly as possible? Thanks so much!</div>
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While we wait, I'm planning a Thirty-One Gifts fundraiser. If you are in the area, you are welcome to come! If you are NOT in the area, and would like to support us by shopping through this fundraiser, look for an opportunity to shop online very soon!<br />
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Thanks so much for all the love, prayers and support for our family... We are so grateful for each one of you!</div>
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Blessings in Him,</div>
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Michelle</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-66421519521612531352013-08-19T17:21:00.002-07:002013-08-19T17:24:22.280-07:00CourtWow! I really need to post more! When we heard about our MOWCYA court date being July 29th, we were merely hoping for our actual court date when we would travel to Ethiopia. We didn't realize it would become a flurry of activity to get us there on very. short. notice. <br />
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July 17: <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/07/update-prepping-for-travel.html" target="_blank">MOWCYA court date</a> scheduled<br />
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July 29: MOWCYA court date - we recieved our positive MOWCYA letter and birth parent consent to adopt "Little Rogi #4" (AKA LittleK)<br />
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July 31: Court date scheduled for August 13th!<br />
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August 1: Flights booked for trip to Ethiopia!<br />
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August 7: Departing Columbus, through JFK then Dubai.<br />
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August 8: Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia!<br />
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August 8: Meet LittleK<br />
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August 9: Judge decides that since we were already in Addis Ababa, she called us in for court early. <br />
<b>WE PASSED! </b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet Kindu Rogers!</td></tr>
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August 9-15: Hang out with Kindu every day!</div>
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August 14: First family outing - we got to take Kindu out to lunch</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, we are quite smitten <3</td></tr>
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August 16: We flew home...A.L.L. day and we have been back to life as usual (mostly) ever since.</div>
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Now we await our embassy submission - hopefully August 28 or September 4 - then clearing embassy within a few weeks of submission. Our hope is to have Kindu home by the end of October although SOONER would be nice!</div>
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Thank you all who have contributed... You are ALL part of the Rogers Family Adoption Story. </div>
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We will continue to fund-raise to finish our international fees and purchase our flights back to get Kindu to bring him home. If you feel led, <b>any amount is significant</b> and can be given by using the DONATE button at the top right column. I plan to have a Thirty-One Gifts fundraiser in the next few weeks too - FUN!</div>
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Thanks again and blessings to you all!</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-65257965164865525522013-07-17T19:16:00.000-07:002013-07-17T19:19:39.161-07:00Update: MOWCYA<h2 style="text-align: center;">
UPDATE! </h2>
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<b>We have our MOWCYA court date! </b></h2>
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The court in Ethiopia has subpoenaed MOWCYA for a positive recommendation letter for our family and the birth parent is requested to appear to give consent for the adoption. All this is to happen on <b>July 29th</b>. I asked if there was any chance we could get a court date and have to travel later that week and our coordinator said, "YES!" <b>We could potentially travel with only a one day notice. </b><br />
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Although there is also the chance that we will NOT travel, we want to be prepared, so <b>bring those donations </b>for the Transition Home and the Orphanages! <br />
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Like I said yesterday, we will place a box to collect donations in the church lobby or we will receive them at our house. <b>For drop-off details and a list of needed donations see <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/07/prepping-for-travel_16.html" target="_blank">yesterday's post.</a></b><br />
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<b>We are also still raising funds for our travel</b>. If you feel led to donate financially for our travel to Ethiopia to make "K" ours, please click the DONATE button on the top right side of this page.<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-37070371159210531302013-07-16T16:54:00.000-07:002013-07-16T16:56:36.621-07:00Prepping For TravelSince we received and accepted our referral for "K" we have been patiently awaiting news of court dates. I asked our coordinator today if we were in the court system in Ethiopia yet. She says our case is open with MOWCYA (Ministry of Women, Children, Youth Affairs) and the court system, and there is definitely still a possibility that we may travel before court closes for the rainy season (August 6 - October 1).<br />
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If we will indeed travel soon, we would like to collect donations to take over there while we still ahve a little time. <b>We will each be able to check (2) 50 lb. suitcases which we'd like to fill with donations </b>(the things we need for ourselves we will pack into our carry-ons).<br />
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Below is a list of priority needs for our agency's transition home where our little guy lives:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Vitamin D drops</li>
<li>Coloring books</li>
<li>Crocs for children and nannies</li>
<li>Shoes and clothing (gently used are ok) for children ages 3-14</li>
<li>Foam/Rubber (lightweight) soccer/playing balls for toddlers</li>
<li>Diaper cream, specifically with zinc oxide (Desitin or Boudreaux's)</li>
</ul>
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There are also other <b>general donation needs and medical/medicine needs </b>for the <b>transition home and the local orphanages </b>we will be visiting while we are there. <b>See the blog page titled <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/thank-you-for-helping-provide-for.html" target="_blank">AWAA Donations </a>for a complete list.</b></div>
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Please know, although <b>formula</b> is on the list, it is bulky to travel with and can be purchased in-country. So if you'd like to make a cash donation for formula, we will be happy to collect that and purchase as much as we can when we get to Ethiopia.</div>
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Regarding <b>diapers,</b> the orphanages prefer to use cloth diapers and there is a huge need for those that some recent traveling families have noticed. So, <b>if you'd like to donate diapers, please donate cloth. </b> Thanks!</div>
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Also, if you are a medical/dental professional or work for one, please consider asking for donations from those offices -- oftentimes, these offices are willing to donate boxes of sample medicines or toothbrushes/toothpaste.</div>
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We will place a large box in the church lobby for donations - open hours are 9a - 3p Monday through Friday if you want to drop those off outside of service times: </div>
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Calvary Chapel Columbus</div>
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6075 E. Livingston Ave.</div>
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Columbus, OH 43232</div>
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We are also able to receive donations here at our house. If you need directions, please feel free to email me at <b>talesoftherogi@gmail.com</b></div>
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Thanks so much for all your love and support throughout our adoption journey!</div>
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Blessings,</div>
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Khris, Michelle, KK, Lily, Reese and "K"</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-8531679171739484542013-06-28T10:48:00.002-07:002013-06-28T11:00:19.467-07:00Update #3: Funded for Referral!<h3>
<span style="color: #783f04;">I almost can not believe that we raised almost $5000 in less than 3 days!</span></h3>
How did this happen? This is simply the Body of Christ in action. <br />
<br />
All we did was ask. God's people responded by <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Praying.</span> </b>They responded by <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Sharing.</span></b><span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span> And they responded by <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Giving</span><span style="color: #b45f06;">.</span></b><span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span><br />
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Not only were there those who gave from their abundance, but there was <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>"Widow's Mite"</b></span> giving as well. As on example, a 14 year old boy wiped out his savings and gave so we could be that much closer to bringing K home. <br />
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Every dollar is significant. We are grateful. <br />
And we are <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">slack-jawed-in-awe</span> of our <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Mountain-Moving God!</span><br />
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He has a heart for the fatherless,<br />
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and His people respond.</div>
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God has revealed Himself in a <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">BIG</span><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"> </span>way, not only through this fundraising, but also as we grieve our <span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dispatch/obituary.aspx?n=david-r-brown&pid=165381108" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">beloved Pastor Dave's passing.</span></a> </span> The Body of Christ has rallied around our family like no other time before. <br />
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<i><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the Name of the LORD. Job 1:21 (NASB)</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">I know you're thinking, </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">"Now you are accepting your referral, so what's next?"</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Travel.</span> America World is working diligently behind the scenes to expedite our referral and get us submitted to court before the rainy season closures on August 6.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;">"But you didn't have all of your referral funding, </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">how will you fund travel?"</span></div>
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Funny you should ask... First off, we are applying for some adoption grants through <a href="http://www.lifesongfororphans.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Lifesong for Orphans</b></span></a>, <a href="http://giftofadoption.org/index.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Gift of Adoption</b></span></a>, and possibly <a href="http://showhope.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ShowHope</b></span></a>.<br />
<br />
On top of that, my friend Christie of <b><a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Satisfaction Through Christ</span></a> </b>has a <span style="color: #990000;"><b>HUGE HEART</b></span> for adoption. She's adopted two little girls herself and has seen God move in a big way when she had 10 days to come up with $10,000 for her most recent adoption. Check it out below:<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/2013/01/operation-adoption-10101-10-days-10-1.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBFir_-NEvc_ry1bhHNvCfHyq3RJIu6Z91NcWMFhWwXJrDVHrJ5vo8NVHS3hPGTdagQamP9P9v2XhbqEn8sAtZM1iG_jrwGhAr8FMRXd1WtpWOey7wwocMavgg0KZWBv-efGs6HvOiu9x/s200/operation10101.png" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/2013/01/operation-adoption-10101-10-days-10-1.html" target="_blank">Operation {Adoption} 10:10:1</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/2013/01/operation-adoption-10101-10-days-10-1.html" target="_blank">{10 Days, $10, 1 Baby}</a></span></span></td></tr>
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Knowing full-well how God can move, Christie and her <span style="color: #990000;"><b>BIG HEART</b></span> are graciously featuring our family today on <a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/2013/06/operation-adoption-help-bring-k-home.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Satisfaction Through Christ</b></span></a> in order to continue our fundraising so we can travel. I told her I was trying to come up with the most eloquent, meaningful, gracious response to this. I had no words aside from<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">"Glory to God!" </span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><i>#thisistheBodyofChrist</i></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> </span><br />
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So head on over there and check it out:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.satisfactionthroughchrist.com/2013/06/operation-adoption-help-bring-k-home.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIqmTzdmRnQSBG_lnZSQN9lfK9hqEI0skXWFNEOdkA7kiZDVp2QL_BBRkU_pZWIbxxfLgwVSHo0VtDO0A1j5a8SpoSY3HbollyBzpJK8hjP9BrMk86iOUHKdP6I_fs_Eum68HByDWCcHV/s320/Tales-of-the-Rogi-Adoption.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Operation #Adoption - Help Bring K Home</td></tr>
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Again, Thank you all for being the <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Hands and Feet of Christ</span> this week. Please keep <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Praying</b></span> and <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Sharing</b></span> so the Lord can use more of His people to bring one precious little boy home to his forever family.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><i>God sets the lonely in families... Psalm 68:6 (NIV)</i></span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-79010586795766783542013-06-27T08:59:00.001-07:002013-06-28T11:00:29.245-07:00Update #2: A Call to ActionFirst of all....<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">THANK YOU!</span> </div>
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To all who have donated to our adoption fund!</div>
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Day 2 wasn't as busy as day 1, <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>BUT</b></span> the Lord is stirring hearts and the funds are trickling in. As of 11:30 this morning, we are just over $2000. <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><i>We are rejoicing in the Lord!</i></span> </div>
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We are so grateful for all <span style="color: #b45f06;">YOU</span> are doing to pray, share and give to bring home our <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Little K</span>.<br />
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Here's the link to the blog post for you share again: <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-call-to-action.html" target="_blank">A CALL TO ACTION</a></span></b><br />
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Please continue to PRAY, SHARE & GIVE as you feel led. </div>
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Blessings ~Michelle<br />
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<i><span style="color: #b45f06;">A Father to the fatherless, a Defender of widows, </span></i><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">is God in His holy dwelling. </span></i></h2>
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<i><span style="color: #b45f06;">Psalm 68:5 (NIV)</span></i></h2>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-17398108488651712502013-06-26T08:54:00.001-07:002013-06-26T08:54:51.159-07:00Update: A Call to ActionWe are overwhelmed by the love and support of our friends, family and church family! <br />
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In 1 day, you supported us for over $1800! <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>ONE DAY!</b></span></div>
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Our goal was between $4-5K. We REALLY want to accept this referral for Little K as soon as possible - before July 1 if we can - so please keep praying for God's provision.<br />
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Also, please keep sharing <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-call-to-action.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>yesterday's blog post</b></span></a> via email, facebook, twitter, your blog, whatever! Just share!<br />
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Again, thank you, thank you, thank you! ~Michelle<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><i><b>God sets the lonely in families...</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><i><b>Psalm 86:6 (NIV)</b></i></span></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-89249358665865555532013-06-25T06:47:00.002-07:002013-06-25T06:48:15.967-07:00A Call to ActionWell ladies and gentlemen, it's <span style="color: #b45f06;">GO</span> time. After the events of the last 2 weeks, <a href="http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dispatch/obituary.aspx?n=david-r-brown&pid=165381108#fbLoggedOut" target="_blank"><b><i>the passing of our beloved pastor and friend</i></b></a>, we thought we might be settling back down. The Lord thinks otherwise...<br />
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We received a phone call last night from America World - they have matched us with a child! Praise Him! God is good, and though the timing has us reeling, we are trusting in Him.<br />
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Now here's the thing: in order to accept this referral (and we REALLY want to do that), we need the funds to do so. Also, in light of the <a href="http://adoptedbydesign.typepad.com/blog/2013/06/uscis-implements-pre-adoption-immigration-review-pair-for-ethiopia-cases.html" target="_blank"><i><b>recent changes in Ethiopian adoption</b></i></a> we have <b>less than a week (before July 1 to be exact).</b><br />
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There are three things you can do: Pray. Give. Share.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Pray</span> for the Lord's provision. God is already on the move. He has provided every penny we have needed through this adoption as we have needed it and we trust that He will use many on behalf of our orphan-no-more.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Give </span>Use the <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=wS0qkHD-3ZzlFhc6v9CgT_bU32_Ja1-rHjciobT8UKSE0TIcdqA-2GhJ1vW&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1f8e263663d3faee8d4e181b3aff599f99e8c17bd6c7fe2f56" target="_blank"><i>PayPal</i></a> </span>link at the top of the sidebar to donate directly to our adoption fund. We need $4,000-5,000 more to accept our referral. Any amount helps and we are eternally grateful.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Share</span> On top of praying and giving, would you direct your family and friends to help too? Share this blog post on your facebook wall, on your twitter feed, link this post up on your blog... get the word out! Many hands make light work.<br />
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Thank you, thank you, thank you. May God bless you. ~Khris<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-71368345395542444552013-05-07T08:21:00.002-07:002013-05-08T07:19:48.486-07:00Adoption Update: Not Much Happening...Hello Friends! Well, there's not much happening on our adoption, EXCEPT that we have completed our home study update and immigration paperwork renewal (yawn). <br />
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We've been <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/03/officially-waiting.html" target="_blank">DTE 14 months</a> and our spot on <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/adoption-lingo.html" target="_blank">"the list"</a> has been on a yo-yo course. <br />
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As of today here's where we are for our request for a Boy 0-7 years:<br />
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Infant boy--> #49<br />
Boy 19-47 months--> #22<br />
Child 4+ years--> #10<br />
(although on <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/adoption-lingo.html" target="_blank">"the list"</a> there are only 2 families in front of us requesting a boy in the 4+ category...so #3?)<br />
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So we wait.<br />
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In the meantime, we put puzzle pieces together for our <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/active-adoption-fundraisers.html" target="_blank">Puzzle Fundraiser</a>, continue with our homeschool year, and visit with friends. <br />
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We had such an opportunity just last week. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxel3fFzKBmnFWMky9FgyfWHMDBdT3vk4dLxnDeUaDBf8LPw8Ypj8AweVY0R1oCgwNv7ml5er3V-gNLDoWw0zAzIhyphenhyphenqRHUSHaUqa1CUZR_XPS-DDwKXQ56tTdrRIqAA28lPGZ4X1zTx6o/s1600/IMG_3927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxel3fFzKBmnFWMky9FgyfWHMDBdT3vk4dLxnDeUaDBf8LPw8Ypj8AweVY0R1oCgwNv7ml5er3V-gNLDoWw0zAzIhyphenhyphenqRHUSHaUqa1CUZR_XPS-DDwKXQ56tTdrRIqAA28lPGZ4X1zTx6o/s320/IMG_3927.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LtoR--> KK, Bonnie, Lily, Me, Marc & Reese</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZdtfrl-BxKZojeGjj4Lsv3fKU6FF_f0Ua-Vb2eM4fgIAkB6H6S7Vibvk87YUG_kX0JsFGuKymDBRDuuacBuB6O4sn6rpK_znzF-tTKMrNqVYhMuhKtClMBbDJtZir3rcheCXGlQpb7W8/s1600/IMG_3963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZdtfrl-BxKZojeGjj4Lsv3fKU6FF_f0Ua-Vb2eM4fgIAkB6H6S7Vibvk87YUG_kX0JsFGuKymDBRDuuacBuB6O4sn6rpK_znzF-tTKMrNqVYhMuhKtClMBbDJtZir3rcheCXGlQpb7W8/s320/IMG_3963.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I took the kids down to the <a href="http://leopetroglyph.com/" target="_blank">Leo Petroglyphs</a> State Park to meet up with some good friends we met last summer. After we checked out the rock, we went on the nature trail and shared a picnic lunch.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">anyone else think this is random Native American Teenage Graffiti?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">crazy pose</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uh, that's a BIG slug!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our guardian and tour-guide from the neighboring farm</td></tr>
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We met this awesome couple last June when they were stopping through in Ohio. Marc & Bonnie are traveling the lower 48 states, sharing the gospel and serving the church. <br />
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Here's their blog---> <a href="http://bonnieortega.blogspot.com/2013/05/west-virginia-38-aka-10-left.html" target="_blank">THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE</a><br />
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(^^It's the post where they </div>
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mention being here with us again)</div>
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And their YouTube channel---> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/TheUrbanpilgrims?feature=" target="_blank">TheUrbanPilgrims</a><br />
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When they were first in Ohio, they stopped in at our church on a Sunday night during the men's bible study. Khris met them and invited them over to our Monday night bible study and they came! (We weren't sure they would). We got to know them a bit, found out they live in their van as they travel and offered them a bed for the duration of their stay. They ended up staying 10 days (not even long enough) before heading off to Pittsburgh.<br />
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Since then, we have watched their journey around the country and have had the opportunity to see them again. In January, they met up with us in Atlanta for the <a href="http://www.268generation.com/" target="_blank">Passion Conference</a>. They were volunteering on the security team under Khris and we surprised them - the kids and I originally weren't going to go, but we R.E.A.L.L.Y. wanted to see them, as well as our awesome host family, <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2013/02/its-been-while.html" target="_blank">the Bolton</a>'s.<br />
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We also stopped in Louisville, KY for lunch with them on our way back from <a href="http://summit9.org/" target="_blank">Summit9</a>. Good times...<br />
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Marc & Bonnie so love the Lord... they're going across the country in obedience to the Great Commission<br />
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<i>"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.' Amen." Matthew 28:18-20</i><br />
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So if you feel the leading of the LORD to support their ministry, there's <a href="http://bonnieortega.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">info on their blog</a> on how to pray and/or donate. Check it out on the upper right column.<br />
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They also love the orphan and want to help us bring ours home and make him an orphan-no-more. They make and sell crocheted items and jewelry then donate their earnings to our adoption. How cool is that? What a blessing! <br />
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Here's their Etsy shop ---><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ForLoveOfAChild?ref=em" target="_blank"> FOR LOVE OF A CHILD</a><br />
Bonnie says there's not much up there now, but will take requests. Do yourself a favor, request one of Marc's tree pendants. You won't be disapointed (=<br />
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There you have it... Tales of the Rogi at its finest! Love to you all!<br />
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<h2>
<i>~Michelle</i></h2>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-78197499218522747122013-03-02T14:16:00.001-08:002013-03-02T14:17:43.766-08:001 Year DTE :: by KhrisWhen the Lord has blessed us to be able to treat our kids to a special event, such as Great Wolf Lodge or a trip to Myrtle Beach, we spend weeks or even months planning it. What we do NOT do is tell our kids about it as we plan. We wait until the last possible moment to tell them, so that we don't get the 1001 questions like, "Mom, can we go to the store today to get a new bathing suit?" when our trip is still 75 days away. In essence, what we are trying to avoid is the constant barrage of questions.<br />
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But it seems this may be exactly what the Lord may want us to do with Him. God's desire for our lives is that we would live in such a way that we press into Him for our "daily bread". He is gracious and compassionate to His children, and longs for us to come boldly before the throne of grace with our questions.<br />
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The Rogers family is one year DTE today, March 2, 2013. That means we have had our paperwork submitted to the Ethiopian government for one complete year. 365 days of wondering if today will be the day that we get a phone call.<br />
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We know by the trends, that most families are waiting longer than this, yet not a day passes that we don't wonder if the phone might ring.<br />
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And this is exactly where our loving God wants us, because all we can do is come to Him with our wonder and say, "when is it coming?" And we press more into Him. And we wait. There is much growth to be had in waiting on the Lord. We know that His timing is perfect. We know that there is a sovereign plan that has been in motion since long before we began discussing adoption. And we know that our God is good.<br />
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<b id="internal-source-marker_0.32093355897814035" style="font-weight: normal;">So we cling to the scriptures, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all your ways and He will make your path straight."</b><br />
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<b style="font-weight: normal;">And we wait....365....366....367....<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-83838766311396678962013-02-14T06:34:00.001-08:002013-02-14T11:11:19.602-08:00Puzzling Update #2I'm linking up over at #SpreadtheLove today to share our adoption story. The idea is that this Valentine's Day, the challenge is to do the following:<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Pray for orphans around the world</b> and the families that God has called to adopt them</li>
<li><b>Read the stories</b> on the <a href="http://mrsmarieosborne.blogspot.com/2013/02/spreadthelove.html" target="_blank">link-up page</a> and pray for those families</li>
<li><b>Share the link to this post</b> on FaceBook, Twittter, any social media, encouraging people to pray for orphans and their families</li>
<li><b>Donate $14 on Feb. 14</b>. You can donate to us by clicking the AdoptTogether link at the top of the sidebar, or choose another adoption to bless on the link-up page, or another orphan ministry.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://mrsmarieosborne.blogspot.com/2013/02/spreadthelove.html" target="_blank"><img alt="#SpreadtheLove" border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFKYB0cDXqoCQ9cVtvH2goHfnYwi4nRXgTCR-xY0EF5ehWN47WSyxzVp1in8GHtoNeUTXlCj55_ifOZCmirguVfOYzjhJN4clQpkckXmDYoQ6N_xvKz7yt2KwOKJVsidR8c67-EZkMxM/s320/%2523SpreadtheLove%2520%2528draft%2520%25232%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h2>
Puzzling Update #2</h2>
Here we are almost a year <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/03/officially-waiting.html"><b>DTE (Dossier to Ethiopia)</b></a>. We've changed our original request from Boy 0-18mos. Now our request is for a Boy 0-7yrs. In the list that the parents of our adoption program keep, we're hovering around #9 for a child 4+, but everyone we see in front of us in line is requesting either a girl or any gender 0-5, so we could potentially be the parents of the next healthy 6 or 7 year old available.<br />
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We pray for him often. Our prayer usually is that he has been fed and cared for each day, as well as asking the Holy Spirit to reveal His love to our little guy.<br />
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My kids and I just began praying daily for each member of our family, including our son in Ethiopia. You can read my post about it on my other blog, <a href="http://mymommalogues.blogspot.com/2013/02/prayer-meeting-with-kids.html" target="_blank"><b>My MommaLogues</b></a>. Prayer time with my kids has been a beautiful development in my children's discipleship.<br />
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Remember our <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/09/end-of-summer-puzzler.html" target="_blank"><b>End of the Summer Puzzler</b></a> fundraiser? It's been cruising right along. We have the whole outline sponsored which ends up being 177 pieces of our adoption puzzle. That was in the middle of January. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completed the outline - 177 pieces - on January 19, 2013</td></tr>
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Now in the middle of February, we have 205 pieces of the puzzle sponsored! <br />
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You can keep up on the puzzle progress over on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/432176900189448/" target="_blank"><b>FaceBook event page</b></a>. AND if you'd like to be a part of the Rogers Family Adoption Puzzle, just click the <a href="http://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi/" target="_blank"><b>AdoptTogther link</b></a> at the top of the sidebar to take you to our fundraising page. Be sure to comment with how many pieces you are sponsoring and what names you'd like on the back. Thanks so much!!!<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-57245010472871007432013-02-12T16:56:00.001-08:002013-02-12T16:56:39.815-08:00It's Been A WhileSo.... How was Christmas? And New Year's Eve? And Valentine's D...(right, not quite there yet *grin*)<br />
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For us? I'm just going to keep it short and say, "We are so blessed!" Christmas was a fun, week-long, celebration with family and friends.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crazy Mustache Antics at the Very Scarry Christmas Party<br />(extended family on Michelle's mom's side)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rogers, Burgess & Wallace families (Michelle's parents & sister's family)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas morning: the kids taking turns reading the <br />Christmas Story out of Luke 1 & 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stockings!</td></tr>
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We decided on Christmas Eve that instead of Khris going to Atlanta for the <a href="http://www.268generation.com/3.0/">Passion 2013 conference</a> alone, that Michelle and the kids would join him and stay at our hosts house while he worked the conference. We are so thankful for our good friends, The Bolton's. Matt & Julie, your hospitality is truly a HUGE blessing to us. <br />
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While we were there, our friends, <a href="http://bonnieortega.blogspot.com/">Marc & Bonnie</a>, and Russell joined us. The three of them worked the <a href="http://www.268generation.com/3.0/">Passion Conference</a> with Khris. Michelle and the kids had a bunch of fun while Khris and his crew were serving...<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
The Bolton's took us to their taekwando class...</h2>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
We took Gabby Bolton with us to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History</h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oh. deer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's gonna eat meeeeeee!!!!!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lily loves owls {0v0}</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my 3 dinos</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">KK & Gabby</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reese & Lily</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi41qeFsFzw45HmN5dcmTlqzhg9WGBWkgS4ulO8hoqZpY7Y-5Mia1EnsI37pcng7lczdAIqv6VjNmhEu309Mn63WxsPBRGJGOgz7A0GFRJjIMp7CdUfL5hIcPVqmfxRqj_Y7igWa0cREDQy/s1600/IMG_3785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi41qeFsFzw45HmN5dcmTlqzhg9WGBWkgS4ulO8hoqZpY7Y-5Mia1EnsI37pcng7lczdAIqv6VjNmhEu309Mn63WxsPBRGJGOgz7A0GFRJjIMp7CdUfL5hIcPVqmfxRqj_Y7igWa0cREDQy/s320/IMG_3785.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Genghis Style???</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0bKWFFohNK0Wx8ylr6UtmDt_1E7_g6zNJpy5Ud_TpmV-DjyF2pI79OXtuifzGkHs5k88lsExklGk7pEMe8OJ8FdvARFwAFJNo9mXPLusYADVRbxP1qTouGMahPrEklwnEoGsMhH61zda/s1600/IMG_3786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0bKWFFohNK0Wx8ylr6UtmDt_1E7_g6zNJpy5Ud_TpmV-DjyF2pI79OXtuifzGkHs5k88lsExklGk7pEMe8OJ8FdvARFwAFJNo9mXPLusYADVRbxP1qTouGMahPrEklwnEoGsMhH61zda/s320/IMG_3786.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mongolian Yert</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DlzSJeJNCXqYKl-Ru0T3zVqESlufDf7QZuQMFR0eRAOyOqYZEz-7fcOH-6bSTmfcHNTGWB8uaqQO7sVBZrejyp0XA3_IOS5GKB28KlE3y_TkLxAmP-t4FNHtLBpqmmeWQ9-OeoZW19_t/s1600/IMG_3790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DlzSJeJNCXqYKl-Ru0T3zVqESlufDf7QZuQMFR0eRAOyOqYZEz-7fcOH-6bSTmfcHNTGWB8uaqQO7sVBZrejyp0XA3_IOS5GKB28KlE3y_TkLxAmP-t4FNHtLBpqmmeWQ9-OeoZW19_t/s320/IMG_3790.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mongolian catapult</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91Oe902mLgvPz34VcSeiGP2ufw5rYRq8nGTk9PwwBQdGUly7YZvE2rEksHLd8m3LbYXi7Wrr8tm7AeQGQCnKEdrFPJbUHOoHtpJ0QzOwd6Qqo1HJJAOPEpKd2wd2ASd55KAoZUG5k8nIf/s1600/IMG_3793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91Oe902mLgvPz34VcSeiGP2ufw5rYRq8nGTk9PwwBQdGUly7YZvE2rEksHLd8m3LbYXi7Wrr8tm7AeQGQCnKEdrFPJbUHOoHtpJ0QzOwd6Qqo1HJJAOPEpKd2wd2ASd55KAoZUG5k8nIf/s320/IMG_3793.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These girls had way too much fun in the Genghis Kahn exhibit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkktKKUu2z_xMQ0wQtlcgEuwMZx6RshH0HczBs0l-mQh5-kxP7yVwdSyNvt_FfMCpwLbXN-E-zqDXSzbsAQXGnj-GErnsHXOwZh6jHOy5meps4ulJ6bp5KhnH3_NZbHz7R4-d4WtYT42R/s1600/IMG_3797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkktKKUu2z_xMQ0wQtlcgEuwMZx6RshH0HczBs0l-mQh5-kxP7yVwdSyNvt_FfMCpwLbXN-E-zqDXSzbsAQXGnj-GErnsHXOwZh6jHOy5meps4ulJ6bp5KhnH3_NZbHz7R4-d4WtYT42R/s320/IMG_3797.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fernbank Museum entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Then we went to The World of Coke </h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vault where the secret Coca~Cola recipe is kept</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have a Coke and a smile (=</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Well, that about catches us up. We hope you all enjoy your Valentine's Day. We'll be hanging out enjoying chocolate fondue... Yum!</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-84645670694262446292012-12-14T09:16:00.000-08:002013-02-12T16:57:04.998-08:00Christmas Giveaway! - Winners!<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Merry Christmas!!!</span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq0eEgzbWotCSlgy0jwPAqubT2WOHu_2Zp7gXs9k8OJL9XLpVBiMedzvlB6LZOZchoo7n4VVbfFB7WAUqiEqe097agUSuYmBhZgffj1UlsZM5ytDuNe8IpFOgazbMaXCyvogLUAS5O-hs/s1600/Africa+Ornament+ET.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq0eEgzbWotCSlgy0jwPAqubT2WOHu_2Zp7gXs9k8OJL9XLpVBiMedzvlB6LZOZchoo7n4VVbfFB7WAUqiEqe097agUSuYmBhZgffj1UlsZM5ytDuNe8IpFOgazbMaXCyvogLUAS5O-hs/s320/Africa+Ornament+ET.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Our three winners of the Limited Edition Ethiopia Flag ornaments are:</div>
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Out of 17 Comments...</div>
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#16 "Cindy"</div>
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#11 "Dave And Katie"</div>
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#13 "Kaylen N."</div>
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Congratulations! I'll be emailing you to get your mailing info shortly.</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-53304171279025574352012-12-07T08:40:00.001-08:002013-02-12T16:57:04.996-08:00Christmas Giveaway!<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Merry Christmas!</span></h2>
Our Christmas season officially kicked off this last Saturday. Our church does a ladies Christmas Luncheon every year where we have a wonderful time of fellowship, food, music and of course a timely message. I usually lead the worship/caroling and this year, for the first time, my oldest daughter joined me singing harmonies. She did her mama proud!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltq_HwQm8zpzrsvg4Hou2owdPLxFFAbxvPUU-l6VfwmSM16F2LvWraS6m4hZFFNuhLr8U2Jyn5_hlJI7mNYdRCIOuCbXTyu2MO3HqIz1AV6lkobU2UfeXS6oIzHo1fU8jcWA1L4OQ4PLI/s1600/ladiesluncheon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltq_HwQm8zpzrsvg4Hou2owdPLxFFAbxvPUU-l6VfwmSM16F2LvWraS6m4hZFFNuhLr8U2Jyn5_hlJI7mNYdRCIOuCbXTyu2MO3HqIz1AV6lkobU2UfeXS6oIzHo1fU8jcWA1L4OQ4PLI/s320/ladiesluncheon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: Erin W. (thank you Seester!)</td></tr>
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This year's theme was Prince of Peace:<br />
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<i>For unto us a Child is born,</i></div>
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<i>Unto us a Son is given;</i></div>
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<i>And the government will be upon His shoulder.</i></div>
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<i>And His name will be called</i></div>
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<i>Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,</i></div>
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<i>Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.</i></div>
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<i>Of the increase of His government and peace</i></div>
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<i>There will be no end,</i></div>
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<i>Upon the throne of David and over His kindgom,</i></div>
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<i>To order it and establish it with judgement and justice</i></div>
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<i>From that time forward, even forever.</i></div>
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<i>The Lord of hosts will perform this.</i></div>
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<i>Isaiah 9:6-7 </i></div>
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Oh, how I LOVE this promise! Fulfilling scriptural prophecy, the Son arrived some 2,000 years ago, walked this earth without sin, was crucified for my sins and yours, laid in the tomb for three days, was resurrected to life and ascended into heaven with the promise to return for His beloved Bride.<br />
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"The Lord of hosts will perform this." </div>
I trust He will! I <strike>anxiously</strike> peacefully await that day when He returns and we are gathered together with Him in the air! (Rapture practice anyone? Throw your hands in the air and jump as high as you can!)<br />
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<i>"And if I go and prepare a place for you,</i></div>
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<i>I will come again and receive you to Myself;</i></div>
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<i>that where I am, there you may be also."</i></div>
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<i>John 14:3</i></div>
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<h2>
<span style="color: #cc0000;">The Giveaway</span></h2>
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The last post I shared my most treasured Christmas memories from childhood - <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-memories-and-sneak-peek.html"><span style="color: #cc0000;">my beloved Santa</span></a>. Now that I'm all grown up and walking with Jesus through this life, we're making new memories. One of my favorite memories from recent years is two Christmases ago when we shared with our kids that we would be adopting. You can see the video <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2011/09/not-so-much-update.html"><span style="color: #cc0000;">here on this post</span></a>.<br />
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So, for today's giveaway, here's what ya need to do to win (at least one of the 4 of the following must be done to qualify):<br />
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1.) Comment on this post telling me your most treasured Christmas memory. <br />
2.) Purchase one of the original ornaments from <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-memories-and-sneak-peek.html"><span style="color: #cc0000;">yesterday's post</span></a> and leave a comment telling me which color/pattern you'd like and email me with your mailing address <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><a href="mailto:talesoftherogi@gmail.com">talesoftherogi at gmail dot com</a></b></span>.<br />
3.) Sponsor a piece of our adoption puzzle at <a href="http://adopttogether.org/Talesoftherogi"><span style="color: #cc0000;">AdoptTogether.org/Talesoftherogi</span></a> and leave a comment back here on this blog post for your entry to be counted.<br />
4.) Simply make a donation toward our adoption expenses at<span style="color: #cc0000;"> <a href="http://adopttogether.org/Talesoftherogi"><span style="color: #cc0000;">AdoptTogether.org/Talesoftherogi</span></a> </span>and leave a comment back here on this blog post for your entry to be counted.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #274e13;">*Be sure to comment for each thing you do so that all your entries are counted*</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #274e13;">**All purchases, sponsorship, donations can be made at </span><a href="http://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi"><span style="color: #cc0000;">AdoptTogether.org/talesoftherogi</span></a><span style="color: #274e13;"> using </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: x-small;">Paypal or a credit card ~~Thanks!**</span></div>
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Next <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Friday, December 14th,</b></span> I will use a random number generator to choose 3 winners. Winners will win one of 3 of these "Limited Edition" Ethiopia Christmas ornaments.<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-4780156150418006012012-12-05T13:09:00.001-08:002012-12-05T13:53:12.828-08:00Christmas Memories, and a Sneak-Peek<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Merry Christmas!</span></h2>
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I do love this time of year. One of my fondest memories of Christmastime as a kid, was Santa coming to my house on Christmas Eve. My sister and I would sit on his lap and tell him our Christmas wishes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjQONbXAi1OrPhJIMxvitxLgO3T__1-zRN89CpVnogfW8mVSG1Ir-48LdwvrF9T6TlGnwT-ujpMzRO_08UIoFNBIUv9My-9b0_slLfDoRvNgmb73ukhxk-CNXH92G2E6rwcDdxNOGVNps/s1600/IMG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjQONbXAi1OrPhJIMxvitxLgO3T__1-zRN89CpVnogfW8mVSG1Ir-48LdwvrF9T6TlGnwT-ujpMzRO_08UIoFNBIUv9My-9b0_slLfDoRvNgmb73ukhxk-CNXH92G2E6rwcDdxNOGVNps/s320/IMG.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Eve 1975</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOHTwesstdIWs748Lj8wM-Kv2_g8gcwHuOjAw1WZXUJ4jOUh-q0mk_xCLngqjbbQMN2Vhn3s-fYRE1DjnvOi8j5K-1ApRrRuXIKM1vXoL70dyG-5pAjeoKwOxjo4K_I3QfIMOaVJ9GNef/s1600/IMG_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOHTwesstdIWs748Lj8wM-Kv2_g8gcwHuOjAw1WZXUJ4jOUh-q0mk_xCLngqjbbQMN2Vhn3s-fYRE1DjnvOi8j5K-1ApRrRuXIKM1vXoL70dyG-5pAjeoKwOxjo4K_I3QfIMOaVJ9GNef/s320/IMG_0002.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm not sure what my sister was wishing for here ;-)</td></tr>
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He'd then let us reach into his big velvety red bag and pick out our first gift - usually an ornament that we'd hang on the tree right then - and give us each a giant candy cane.<br />
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Ole Santa would wish us a peaceful night's sleep and assure us he wouldn't come back until we were indeed asleep. I happen to have that old Santa suit. It belonged to my grandpa who passed away when I was in college.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcK5aRbf_y_tzbPdvjazzsWpQcKGKBK9Uo1pxaM0Cz-wxvWhgFJhdCwBLl15894RsgBd2ZWsADb8wPMoerbRd1YXv2R2YRtyl8UU9FB6HWIDD0wrkyJoBNfSq0kuXPbqbwUC5EaCIgAP3z/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcK5aRbf_y_tzbPdvjazzsWpQcKGKBK9Uo1pxaM0Cz-wxvWhgFJhdCwBLl15894RsgBd2ZWsADb8wPMoerbRd1YXv2R2YRtyl8UU9FB6HWIDD0wrkyJoBNfSq0kuXPbqbwUC5EaCIgAP3z/s320/IMG_0004.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 1975<br />
Clockwise from left: Me (3), Grandpa Burgess, my cousin Laurie (3), and my sister Erin (18 mos)</td></tr>
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I figured out that Santa was my grandpa when I was in second grade. Late fall that year, my grandpa had a heart attack and ended up having triple bypass heart surgery. Santa still came that year, but he was different. I KNEW Santa and this guy in my house was NOT him! As I sat on his lap (very suspicious, mind you), I leaned back and saw the back of his neck. I saw a hairline under the white hair and put some clues together. Santa's stand-in was my DAD! That year Grandpa wasn't well enough to do his Santa shtick, but we had a few more Christmas Eve's with the "real" Santa after he was well. <br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I sure do love my Santa!</span></div>
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All in the name of Christmas memories, Friday we'll be doing our very first giveaway. Last year my sister and I made up a bunch of these ornaments for a fundraiser and this week I've already sold 4 just from a quick post on our adoption agency's yahoo group page.<br />
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Over on our <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/active-adoption-fundraisers.html">Active Adoption Fundraisers</a> page you can see all the possible colors and patterns. I've been busy making these Christmas ornaments to continue fundraising for our adoption and decided to make an extra-special one for this giveaway. Here's a hint at what it'll kinda look like:<br />
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So, be sure to come back Friday to see the ornaments and enter for your chance to win one of three<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">"limited edition"</span> Ethiopia Christmas ornaments.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">See you then!</span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-54262645085433053192012-11-28T10:52:00.000-08:002012-11-28T10:55:01.986-08:00Puzzling UpdateWell, I hope you all have had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. We sure did... twice! My sister-in-love cooked up a feast on Thursday for the Rogers side of the family. There were 3 turkeys - 1 deep fried, 1 smoked and 1 brined and roasted. All were delish!<br />
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Then, we hosted the Burgess side of the family on Saturday with my favorite Martha Stewart Turkey101 recipe. Slow-roasted and basted with butter and white wine - oh. my. yum. So rich, juicy and flavorful. My mom and sister rounded out the side dishes with some traditional favorites. We had the Ohio State v Michigan football game on while the turkey was roasting. Good times!<br />
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I am so thankful for our family!<br />
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On the adoption front, we are approaching the 9 month mark being <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/03/officially-waiting.html">DTE (that's dossier to Ethiopia)</a>. On the UNofficial list we are holding steady:<br />
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Boy 0-18 months: #62</div>
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Boy 19-47 months: #27</div>
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Child 4+ years: #13 (but #4 for a boy!)</div>
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We heard from families who recently traveled and confirmed from parents who have asked their family coordinators directly, that the agency's transition home is FULL of children awaiting completed paperwork so they can be cleared for adoption. Yippee!!! There weren't any referrals (that I know of) since the beginning of October up until yesterday - there were 2 children referred to their forever families. Will you join us in praying for the Ethiopian government to complete more of these clearances so some LONG-waiting families can get their referrals?<br />
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As you know, while we wait, we are fundraising so we can accept our referral when it comes and travel soon after. We've been so blessed by so many of you who have sponsored a piece of our <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/09/end-of-summer-puzzler.html">adoption puzzle</a>.<br />
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So far, we have gotten 109 pieces sponsored! WOW! and raised over $1000 toward our referral and travel costs. Thank you so much!!!<br />
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Here's our puzzle progression in pictures... Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL8UsqhF7dnJwaxjki8Ftrxfhm5i1Eg6PMr4wtCOyIk37TFL2ivZ-eKRNEFPwAvNW2LLWkvKAMamamaxfMW2kzijpMhrm_2lnzhIDU3HC_rKRbe_b0K36fROSjtqkn_H_e2xkLSUCagOg/s1600/Giraffepic34.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL8UsqhF7dnJwaxjki8Ftrxfhm5i1Eg6PMr4wtCOyIk37TFL2ivZ-eKRNEFPwAvNW2LLWkvKAMamamaxfMW2kzijpMhrm_2lnzhIDU3HC_rKRbe_b0K36fROSjtqkn_H_e2xkLSUCagOg/s320/Giraffepic34.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the puzzle progress on Facebook<br />
http://www.facebook.com/events/421473057914371/</td></tr>
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If you'd like to sponsor a piece of our puzzle, go to <a href="http://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi">AdoptTogether.org/talesoftherogi</a><br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-85976228159153441812012-11-05T12:33:00.000-08:002012-11-25T19:55:25.689-08:00Beyond Orphan SundayYesterday was Orphan Sunday - celebrated in churches all across America - bringing awareness to the Body of Christ - letting them know that we were all once orphans AND adopted as sons by a loving Father. Not to guilt anyone into becoming involved, but to urge them to listen for the Heart of the Father and what His Word says about caring for the orphan among us.<br />
<br />
Khris was given the opportunity to share a little bit about Orphan Sunday during announcements, and gave an invitation to the congregation to meet with us after service to hear our testimony and learn more about how we, as the Body of Christ, can become more involved in caring for the orphan in our midst and around the world.<br />
<br />
Below are some of the resources we mentioned. If you have any questions, please ask us, we are an open book.<br />
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<ul>
<li>God's Word commands that we care for the orphan, the widow, and the poor among us. There is a compiled list of the scriptures here: <b><a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=1kqqqF3Y57diG7R-a1wV5JBC66ykxLP7Bfby3l8Fq5TlvCrw1q1K1WZWVMiC8" target="_blank">God's Heart For Adoption</a></b></li>
<li><a href="http://orphansunday.org/beyond-orphan-sunday/" target="_blank"><b>Beyond Orphan Sunday</b></a> resources: Adoption, Foster Care, Global Initiatives, and more!</li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.internationalvoiceoftheorphan.com/" target="_blank">International Voice of the Orphan</a> </b>(IVO)<b>:</b> Pray, +Feed, Go!</li>
<li><b><a href="http://orphanwares.com/" target="_blank">Orphan Wares</a></b> (part of IVO): Shop with purpose</li>
<li><a href="http://www.christianalliancefororphans.org/" target="_blank"><b>Christian Alliance for Orphans</b></a>: Orphan care ministry help and other resources</li>
<li><b><a href="http://summit9.org/" target="_blank">Orphan Summit 9</a></b>: May 2-3, 2013, Nashville, TN</li>
<li><a href="http://bbbs.org/" target="_blank"><b>Big Brothers Big Sisters</b></a>: Start Something for a Child Today - local mentoring program</li>
<li><b><a href="http://give1save1.com/" target="_blank">Give1Save1</a></b>: "<span style="font-family: inherit;">...do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share," 1 Timothy 6:18</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion International</a></b>: Child Sponsorship</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://pottersfield.org/" target="_blank">Potter's Field Ministries</a></b>: Child sponsorship, missionary training</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://lifesongfororphans.org/">Lifesong for Orphans</a></b>: Orphan care ministries, Both Hands (orphan and widow care)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Then of course, if you would like to be a part of our adoption journey, we are currently working on our funding so that we can accept our referral when it comes. Click Here for details: <a href="http://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi"><b>AdoptTogether.org/talesoftherogi</b></a></span></li>
</ul>
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Big thanks to all who joined us and are interested in learning more.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>"learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Isaiah 1:17</i></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387158944235920873.post-33452504299179196612012-09-12T08:40:00.001-07:002012-09-17T09:58:43.752-07:00End-of-the-Summer Puzzler<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you remember <a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/2012/03/officially-waiting.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a>? We had just sent off our dossier with a big fat check that YOU helped us write. We were fully funded for the second step of the adoption process -- sending in our completed <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dossier" target="_blank">dossier</a>.</div>
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So, what's next? Aside from waiting for our referral (when a child's file is referred to us), we also need to raise <b><a href="http://talesoftherogi.blogspot.com/p/adoption-cost.html" target="_blank">$10,000 - 15,000</a></b> in order to be able to accept our referral when it comes, as well as purchase our flights and travel package for our first trip to Ethiopia. This first trip will be to go to court for our adoption proceedings. <br />
<br />
With some recent changes to our adoption request, this could be sooner rather than later. We just confirmed with our agency that we are changing our request from a boy age 0-2, to a boy 0-7. On the (*unofficial) waiting list here is where we are now:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Infant boy, 0-18 months: #67</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Toddler boy, 19-47 months: #27</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Child (either gender) 4 years & older: #12</span></div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-size: x-small;"><i>*disclaimer: this unofficial list is kept by the Ethiopia adoptive parents on our Yahoo group, not by our agency (they don't publish a waiting list).*</i></span><br />
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Now, in that either-gender-4+years column, there are only 3 people in front of us <b>NOT</b> requesting a girl, which means we are (*unofficially)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">#4 for a boy!</span> </div>
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Like I said, this could happen sooner rather than later!<br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Yikes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In light of this step in our adoption process...</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a question...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NBphwY38NGcMXMWcZkMWDAyvRj7DcRUdDznI7s98rAM14Nf8hSA1E1q0LMzmYYN04mqpNI6_GxTgaNzBc_W9_Th1dSYuvPJ4a8JruXBCPXykQklRCk6d8UeDV1ad6lThh5GYi2uGwlmZ/s1600/IMG_2499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NBphwY38NGcMXMWcZkMWDAyvRj7DcRUdDznI7s98rAM14Nf8hSA1E1q0LMzmYYN04mqpNI6_GxTgaNzBc_W9_Th1dSYuvPJ4a8JruXBCPXykQklRCk6d8UeDV1ad6lThh5GYi2uGwlmZ/s200/IMG_2499.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><i>Do you like giraffes? </i></span> </span></b></div>
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I personally LOVE giraffes. I'm fascinated by them. They are my most favorite wild animal - see?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPCoQr-CHM6i-W70x1GjtIzvecBuhOLLDx-ph92Q1UldjZgOa45smu9EuFf_OVWprxksoasX69MMyy5tSaOKjtyWjuktLBJB_V9tEHEjek6oHjAT3A7M9lD152YC6t6u9XzrEIryYJbyc/s1600/IMG_2483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPCoQr-CHM6i-W70x1GjtIzvecBuhOLLDx-ph92Q1UldjZgOa45smu9EuFf_OVWprxksoasX69MMyy5tSaOKjtyWjuktLBJB_V9tEHEjek6oHjAT3A7M9lD152YC6t6u9XzrEIryYJbyc/s400/IMG_2483.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I almost planted a big kiss on this one. She was too fast (=</td></tr>
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Well, it's been some time since we've had an active fundraiser. We've had this Puzzle Fundraiser waiting in the wings all summer for just the right time. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX7glrB3qhd4xSX7dhHTGeS3jBPK_XhdgTSOXxQIQY1YZ-TLRi7ZY0McO9X5gzIj5T3WbHk9Q7p_O23BUjssusm_qsgUSlKHifX3T9bigHNO3mGIZgkySib4yLJkDUS-i1sAd3mkBQuzM/s1600/Giraffe+puzzle+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX7glrB3qhd4xSX7dhHTGeS3jBPK_XhdgTSOXxQIQY1YZ-TLRi7ZY0McO9X5gzIj5T3WbHk9Q7p_O23BUjssusm_qsgUSlKHifX3T9bigHNO3mGIZgkySib4yLJkDUS-i1sAd3mkBQuzM/s320/Giraffe+puzzle+pic.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>African Spots</i> by Lori Schory<br />
A 700+ piece shaped jigsaw puzzle</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Here's how the fundraiser works:</span></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">You sponsor a piece of the puzzle for $10 each piece (or 2, or 7, or 10 *wink)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">We write your name on the back of the puzzle piece and email you a picture of your sponsored piece(s).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Once all the pieces are sponsored (there are over 700!) we'll glue and frame the puzzle in two-sided glass frame so we can just turn that baby over and see all of your names and know who helped bring home our <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Little Rogi #4.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Here's how <b>YOU</b> can become a piece of our adoption puzzle:</span></div>
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Click the <span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi">AdoptTogether.org</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;">button below</span><span style="text-align: right;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="text-align: right;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="text-align: right;">or at the top of the side bar to the right ---------> </span></div>
<span style="text-align: right;">
</span><span style="text-align: right;">
</span>
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<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: justify;">This will take you to a secure site where you can donate through <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>**AdoptTogether.org</b></span> $10/piece of the puzzle you sponsor.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Please note how many pieces you would like to sponsor in the comments box.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Not too keen on online transactions? You can also write a check, put our names (Khris and Michelle Rogers) in the memo line of your check, and mail it directly to:</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d;">AdoptTogether</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d;">251 West Central Ave., #278</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Springboro, OH 45066</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Be sure to leave a comment below so we can put you name on the back of your puzzle piece(s)</span></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><i>We promise to use all donations soley for the purpose of our adoption.</i></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://adopttogether.org/talesoftherogi/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_pQnZ5MsUJcxZPq5xlLrQ_gosyXgF8j8ca7wbFzwJhdtOyfpRlwCgNGbyn8YABqZUk5EPS-4Hfh5dJVxOjWlGCixGgx1yzwKaMfjss5R4IJsE-hMu-c0_LlQo37n1J0wNCckDfy3yfs3/s200/AdoptTogetherLittleRogi4.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's bring Little Rogi #4 home!<br />
Click the picture to be directed to our AdoptTogether profile.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">**Check out the <a href="https://adopttogether.org/howitworks.php" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>How It Works page at AdoptTogether.org</b></span></a> to see how this organization handles our donations (we receive 100%!)</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">BIG Thanks & MUCH Love to you all </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">~Khris & Michelle</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">P.S. Please feel free to share this post on your blog, twitter or facebook page ~Thank you!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #0b5394;">P.P.S. We like comments too ~ Let us know you are a Tales of the Rogi reader!</span></i></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00789083786866242819noreply@blogger.com3