This and That

We are now half way through the second week since John’s return to work.  I’m taking all the night time feedings because I don’t want John to have to do that while he’s working (though I know he would take one if I asked – he’s a good man).  I’m exhausted but I feel like I’m somehow adjusting to very small amounts of sleep.  I feel awful from lack of sleep but somehow God just keeps giving me the grace/strength to get through one more day.  By this age, Lincoln was already sleeping through the night but I think we may still have a long road ahead with Oliver!  Bring on the coffee!!

For anyone who didn’t hear through Facebook or the grapevine, the court date for Oliver’s birthparents to terminate their rights went perfect.  Thank you for praying!  His birthfather didn’t even show up – something we are extremely grateful for!  After the hearing, Oliver’s birthmom texted me to tell me things went well and that she felt so happy knowing that Oliver was in a safe place and loved.  It has been such a blessing to us to be able to keep in contact with her.  She is an awesome person and we just love her.

Last night I received an e-mail from Show Hope – one of the foundations from which we are hoping to receive a grant (ranging from $1,000 – $7,000, so a pretty big deal).  They wanted to know if our adoption went through and how things were going before they presented our case to the grant committee.  We’re taking this as a good sign that maybe we still have a decent chance of receiving a grant!  I typed up an e-mail and attached a family snapshot (shamelessly trying to schmooze them with a picture of my adorable family) and sent it right out.  Then after I sent it, I felt so nervous.  What if we don’t get it?  What if in my sleep addled state I didn’t word things right and I blew our chances?  And then I looked down at Oliver sleeping in my arms and thought “Who cares?  I doesn’t really matter – I’ve got everything I ever wanted right here in my arms.”  So whatever God’s will is in this, I’m okay with it.  In other financial news, you might notice that we’ve hit the $4,000 mark in our fundraising!  Wow!  We are amazed at how God has used so many of you to bless us.  Our hearts are so happy and full of love for all of you!

And in just general randomness:

Lincoln loves water so we’ve been trying to go to the lake as often as possible for picnics and then swimming.  He has no fear of the water and will walk out as deep as he can (up to his chin) and then try to let go of my hands!  The first time we let him get in the water, he reached down and splashed his hands and then stood up and yelled “Oh YAY!” in his crazy little boy voice.  I love to see the joy it brings him!

Oliver smiles and coos all the time now.  He is the happiest baby.  I can’t tell you how many times I look down and he’s smiling up at me!  Oliver loves to eat and is getting so round!  I think he’s playing catch up.  I’m looking forward to his next doctors appointment to see how much he’s gained!

Lincoln has developed a climbing obsession, as I suppose most little boys his age do.  It’s adorable and frightening at the same time, he’s a little too confident sometimes.  I don’t know how many times I come into a room to see him trying to climb something.

 

That’s it for now.  If you think of it, pray that if it’s God’s will, we would receive a grant.  Thanks!