tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21585803662916682202024-03-04T21:02:03.397-08:00Explore. Dream. Discover.The Life of Russ, Anna, and soon-to-be LucyAnna and Russ Polsgrovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220911387274153544noreply@blogger.comBlogger257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-18909740823883996052012-10-12T13:41:00.002-07:002012-10-12T13:41:44.587-07:00OUR BLOG HAS MOVED!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Our BLOG as moved! You can now find us at www.tibsandsweettea.wordpress.com.<br />
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We had some issues with renovating this blog so we moved to wordpress. Happy Reading!<br />
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Russ and Anna</div>
Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-19099208758205000762012-06-30T07:06:00.002-07:002012-06-30T07:06:29.281-07:00Day 30- Last day!Today is Day 30 of 30/30/30! What a wild and incredible month. I cannot wait to get a total of all that has been given to Bring Love In this month. It has been amazing to see God working through so many different people...many I have not known until now.
I cannot believe the 30 days are almost over. But I am still so excited that we have TODAY! 1 more day to provide permanent homes for Ethiopian children through the 30th birthday fund.
Will you please consider giving, sharing the video, or praying for the ministry of Bring Love In?
Thank you so much for ALL the support.
Love you guys!
Anna
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qzfUWWp89fkRusshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-46925817019633123522012-06-29T08:11:00.001-07:002012-06-29T08:18:34.638-07:0030/30/30 Day 29<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What a wild month!! We officially hit $30,000 on Wednesday, June 27th! We were at $29,000 and I received a text from one of my best friends saying that she had just given $1,000 so we had gotten to $30,000. What a precious moment. The kids and I had gone to Camp Lake Stephens with Russ to help him get ready for a retreat. Camp Lake Stephens means so much to Russ and I - we both worked there, and were even engaged and married there. We were riding around on the mule when I got word. Love that God ordained us to be somewhere so special when I got the news. Even more special that my good friend was the one that enabled us to get to $30,000. She tried to give several times throughout the month but it wouldn't work for some reason. When she saw $29,000, she knew God had ordained that moment.<br />
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Last night, we were able to travel to Corinth where Tate Baptist Church youth girls had an auction donating all money to Bring Love In. It was amazing. Over 50 people gathered, bidding on donating items. They had such generous hearts. Last I heard they made around $3,400!!! Unbelievable.<br />
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I cannot wait to see how much God provides above and beyond $30,000. Will you please help spread the word today and tomorrow for the last 2 days of giving? <br />
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Video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzfUWWp89fk<br />
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Thank you so much for ALL the prayers, sharing, and giving!<br />
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Anna<br />
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Ephesians 3:20<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">"Now to him who is able </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29272A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">to do immeasurably more than all we ask </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29272B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">or imagine, according to his power </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29272C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">that is at work within us"</span></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-79110693867550502682012-06-20T20:30:00.003-07:002012-06-20T20:30:45.868-07:00Day 20 - UNBELIEVABLE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am sitting on the deck listening to the waves crash on the shore. My family and I have been at the beach this week. As we were preparing to leave on Friday, I had a few feelings of not wanting to go. Not because I wouldn't want to spend the week with my family but simply because I felt like there was too much to do with the 30/30/30. On Friday, we were at $8,000. Way behind my "scheduled" goals. I have been able to do some work for 30/30/30 this week but mostly God has told me to be still, play with my kids, and pray. This has been so hard for me. Not quite sure what I thought I would be doing if I was not out of town, but I "thought" that I needed to be in Tupelo. What if someone needed me? HA!<br />
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God brought me away to the beach and while I am away, OVER $12,000 has come in the past 48 hours. This brings the total to a little OVER $20,000. God is doing this and it is all for HIS Glory. <br />
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I am praising Him for today. I am praising Him for using someone like me and for pricking my mind and heart so much that I could not say no. I am praising Him for the many people who are playing a part in this. We have had people sharing, raising funds, praying, and donating. The thing I love is that MANY people are choosing to play a part.<br />
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I received this picture today of 3 teenage girls and their lemonade stand to raise money for 30/30/30. How beautiful to see teenage girls taking action and doing their part!<br />
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Thank you so much for sharing, being creative with raising funds, donating, praying, etc. I am truly grateful. We have 10 days left and I cannot wait to see what God does.<br />
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<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-64906526475311894072012-06-18T06:43:00.001-07:002012-06-20T20:31:46.470-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am so thankful for two newspapers that did articles on 30/30/30! What a great opportunity to help spread the word! Will you read and share? We are at Day 18 and as of several days ago, we were at around $8,000! <br />
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<a href="http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120618/NEWS/206180305?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter" target="_blank">http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120618/NEWS/206180305?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter</a></div>
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<a href="http://djournal.com/view/full_story/19021622/article-African-connection-Family-finds--light--in-Ethiopia?instance=home_news_right" target="_blank">http://djournal.com/view/full_story/19021622/article-African-connection-Family-finds--light--in-Ethiopia?instance=home_news_right</a></div>
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Will you help share 30/30/30? Will you ask church members, co-workers, friends, and others to do the same?<br />
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If you have an idea of how I can spread the word OR raise funds, I am all ears! 12 days left to reach our goal.<br />
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Thanks so much<br />
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-17707643254501616482012-06-15T20:55:00.001-07:002012-06-15T20:55:20.970-07:00Deuteronomy 28:12<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today, we are half-way through the month. The past two weeks have flown by. I get a little nervous when I hear that we are at Day 15 since we are not at $15,000. In my brain I think that the amount of money we have raised should be the same as the day of the month we are on. This logic is flawed and may not be at all how God wants this whole thing to work. I have so many people say to me that it is just fine if we don't reach $30,000. Which is so true. No matter how much we raise, lives are being changed. But to me, $30,000 was the number God gave me. So I am filled with hope that He will make it happen. I was telling a friend that I had no idea how much doing this would challenge my faith. Ideally, God told me to do this so why didn't $30,000 come in the first week and then we could call it a day? No idea. I even told Russ last week that I just needed someone to give me $15,000 :) His reply was that maybe I just needed a lot of people to give a little. So, I am praying for a multitude of people to be a part of what is happening in Ethiopia. <br />
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A friend sent this verse as a prayer for 30/30/30:<br />
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The LORD will open the heavens, the
storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to
bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will
borrow from none.<br />
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Deuteronomy 28:12 <br />
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Lord, this is my prayer for your people for your glory.<br />
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Thanks so much for continuing to pray, share, and give. </div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-20868337769453591232012-06-11T19:26:00.002-07:002012-06-11T19:26:46.554-07:0030/30/30 Day 11<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What an amazing 3 days we have had! Saturday, my actual birthday, was great! I spent Saturday morning eating breakfast with Russ and the kids. We then went on a hike and I then spent the afternoon and night with friends at the lake. Oh, and I water-skied for the first time in 2 years (pregnant last year so I skipped out). Let's just say I MIGHT have been a little sore on Sunday. I will post pics from this weekend soon!<br />
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Here are a few highlights from 30/30/30 over the past 3 days:<br />
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1- An Ethiopian man living in Minnesota sent me a message on Facebook saying that he watched my video and that he loved what Bring Love In is doing!<br />
2- A little boy needed signs so that he could display them when he does his lemonade stand to benefit 30/30/30. Precious.<br />
3- I completed the first of 2 newspaper interviews. Yay for new ways to share about the plan!<br />
4- <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lynn Replogle is having a baby swim class (in Tupelo) June 18-21 from 6-645pm for kids ages 6mos-2yrs with all proceeds going to 30/30/30. Email me if you are interested and I can give you her contact info. Lucy took from her last week and loved it! Thanks Lynn!</span></span><br />
5- Friends that are constantly trying to get others to post, tweet, or share about 30/30/30. Kellie from Kidd Kraddick re-tweeted. Hoping some of the others we contacted will choose to share.<br />
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Also, my friend Alison, who is adopting a baby girl from Ethiopia shared about 30/30/30 as well. Click <a href="http://lovinmuch.blogspot.com/2012/06/303030-for-annas-30th.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read.<br />
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I would also ask you join Bring Love In in fasting and praying tomorrow. They have clearance to move in kids but have experienced a few paperwork delays. We are praying that the obstacles would be removed and that children could begin moving in. Head to <a href="http://www.bringlove.in/">www.bringlove.in</a> to read more about what they do and to receive updates. Click <a href="http://bringlove.in/on-our-knees-together/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read about their plan for Tuesday.<br />
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It has been a busy yet wonderful few days. Cannot wait to get a donation update. I am posting the video once again in case anyone is new to this page.<br />
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Thank you so much for donating, praying, and sharing! 19 more days! </div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-11892313457014880172012-06-09T04:20:00.000-07:002012-06-09T04:21:39.709-07:00Happy Birthday to me.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We are at $6,582! I am so excited!<br />
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Today is my birthday so I will be officially celebrating being 30! The way people have given to and shared the 30/30/30 makes this birthday the best yet. I would normally not ask for birthday presents...especially from total strangers, but I don't mind asking about this.<br />
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I am asking for help in really pushing 30/30/30 TODAY. I ask that you would show this video with ANYONE that you could and ask them to give TODAY. I would love to be at $10,000 (or $30,000 would be great too :)) by the end of the day. Know how thankful I am!<br />
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Also, be prepared for some cute pictures of my kids helping me celebrate.</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-35136948749345946692012-06-08T13:48:00.001-07:002012-06-08T13:48:10.736-07:00Day 8<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Day 8<br />
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I haven't gotten an update since June 5th but on that day we were at $4,700. Tomorrow (Saturday) is my actual birthday and I am hoping and praying to be at $10,000 by the end of the day! <br />
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For those of you just tuning in, you can catch up on what's happening by watching this video.<br />
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Also, exciting things are happening at Bring Love In! Click <a href="http://www.bringlove.in/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read more about the timeline of kids moving in.<br />
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Thanks again! Please continue to share. If you have the opportunity to show the video to others, I would really appreciate it!<br />
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Believing the God is going to do great things in Ethiopia.<br />
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-46447826233756616172012-06-06T18:22:00.002-07:002012-06-06T18:22:28.059-07:00Day 6 30/30/30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Thank you so much for continuing to help spread the word about the 30/30/30!! We are at the close of Day #6. Something happens each day that let's me know God is in control.<br />
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I have issues with control. Even with the project, I think I need to do more or I begin to panic about not meeting my goal. I become consumed with what others think. It's tempting to focus on my own ability, rather than helping others or on God's power. Putting myself out here, being on a video, and trying to spread this story has been a little unsettling. Yes, I believe I must work hard to try and raise money, but I must not forget that God can do more than I ever ask or imagine. My prayer is that when others watch the video, they will not see Anna Polsgrove. My prayer is that when others watch the video, they will see a chance to be a part of something amazing. I have had a few people send me flattering comments. And while I selfishly like to hear it sometimes, this project is not about me. It's about the story God is writing.<br />
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Levi and Jessie at Bring Love In had a post today about getting more kids more quickly than they thought. Please read the blog post <a href="http://bringlove.in/dont-forget-to-breathe/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. This made me realize even more about God's timing with this project. What are the odds that we are raising money and they are taking in more and more kids? <br />
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Highlight for today: Getting RT on Twitter from a journalist in Norway.<br />
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Let's take this story to other countries around the world! Do you have a way you can help do this? Please feel free to share the story or email me at annapolsgrove@gmail.com.<br />
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Thanks again for being part of this. 24 days to go!</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-89910049464422645382012-06-05T20:03:00.002-07:002012-06-05T20:03:51.676-07:0030/30/30 Day #5<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The past 5 days have been incredible! So amazing to see so many people join in on this journey. <br />
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Day #2 Highlights: Getting asked to do an article in a Mississippi newspaper and a FB friend challenging 30 of her friends to donate and make a difference. Around 11 am on this day we were at $2,100<br />
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Day #3 Highlights: A sweet 5 year old little girl named Anna Grant handing me a wad of her money to donate to children her age in Ethiopia. When she handed me the money, I wanted to cry just thinking about the concept of her giving at such a young age.<br />
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Day # 4 Highlights: Several friends have offered to give the 30/30/30 a part of the proceeds from their individual work efforts. 31, Mary Kay, painting parties, clothing parties and the list goes on. Thank you for thinking outside of the box and offering to make a difference!<br />
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Day #5 Highlights: Hearing the news at around 10 am that we were at $4,700! <br />
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We are almost 1/6 of the way there! Thanks for all of the support. I take no credit in what God is doing. Blows my mind when I see the list of who has given and shared the info and I don't know over half of the people. What a journey!<br />
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-49582758324522331832012-06-02T20:02:00.000-07:002012-06-02T20:02:08.657-07:00Day #2 of 30/30/30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What an amazing 2 days it has been. At the end of Day 1, the video on YouTube had been watched around 700 times and we had raised around $1,000.<br />
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We are now at the end of Day #2. Currently, the video has been watched on YouTube almost 900 times. I do not have a donation total for today but I know around 11 am we were at $2,100. <br />
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Highlights for today:<br />
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Seeing names of people that I do not know giving money. Not because of me but simply because they care and were moved to act.<br />
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Having a Facebook friend challenge 30 of her friends to donate.<br />
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Getting the opportunity to have an article done on 30/30/30 in a Mississippi newspaper.<br />
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I cannot tell you how thankful I am for you being on this journey with us.<br />
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Love,<br />
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Anna <br />
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Today is June 1st. Today is an important day. God has asked me to write a new story and I couldn't be more excited/nervous. For this to happen though, I am going to need the help of all of you :) Please take a minute to watch this video. I would love for you to share the video on your blog, email, FB, Twitter, etc. I cannot wait to see how He provides!<br />
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Also, I would really appreciate if you would make the above picture your profile picture on FB as well as sharing it through email, Twitter, etc. Basically, I need you to tell every person you can find about this! 30 days is a short time to raise $30,000 but I know we can do it! I will be doing updates and talking a little more about this story throughout the next 30 days. Thank you so much for the support! Let's do this together!<br />
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Anna<br />
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-14611647815493313412012-05-18T07:16:00.002-07:002012-05-18T07:16:40.482-07:0030th Birthday<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up to be on the look-out on the blog around June 1st! I turn 30 June 9th and wanted to do something special to celebrate. I have decided to raise funds during the month of June for a group that is special to my heart. God began to show me the plan for this in February and has been slowly revealing all the details since then. Check back soon for more details and to help spread the word. It will truly take help from lots of sweet people to reach our goal.<br />
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Details will also be on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/annapolsgrove" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>! <br />
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I am so excited to see how God raises this money. I am a little nervous setting such a large goal but I KNOW this is what I am to do and God can totally do it!<br />
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I cannot wait to share the details! <br />
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<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-11175467217980201152012-05-05T15:08:00.001-07:002012-05-05T15:08:14.181-07:009 months home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Lucy, 13 months, 1st day home 8/5/11</div>
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Lucy, 22 months, 5/5/12</div>
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What a difference 9 months can make! As we were out with Lucy in the pool today, I thought back to Lucy's first day home. She was a tiny (16 pounds) little girl that was smiling yet so scared in her new home. I thought I would take a look back at that picture and when I did I realized it was exactly 9 months to the day. Today, as we played, she was talking, calling us Mommy and Daddy, running around, and having so much fun. Thank you Lord for the way you are growing us together as a family!</div>
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-81232320261342178082012-05-02T12:33:00.000-07:002012-05-02T12:33:19.124-07:00Save Me from Myself<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Mighty God, who created the waters<br />
but also the grip of an infant son<br />
In some ways so visible and clear<br />
In some ways shrouded in mystery<br />
Unknowable, yet approachable,<br />
Invisible, yet breathable,<br />
Save me from myself</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-68446849465026345302012-04-30T20:56:00.001-07:002012-04-30T21:02:02.863-07:00Christmas 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy, 18 months; Rivers, 1 week</td></tr>
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I am just a tad late putting these on the blog. I wouldn't bother but I am going to print out our blog at the end of the year and want these to be in there. Christmas was only 4 months ago ;) I added a few captions to each picture...I am finding out that I don't remember as much detail as I think I will.....Also, sorry for the pics being turned wrong. I thought I fixed them but since it took so long to download, I think I will just leave them this way ;)<br />
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What a Christmas we had. Rivers' birth and Lucy's first Christmas all in 1 week. What a special time we had teaching her about Jesus' birth. She doesn't remember much but she knows the name JESUS. Every time she says it I just want to cry.<br />
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Christmas Eve morning we went to my grandmother's and Christmas Eve night we went to our church's Christmas Eve Service. I hated to get Rivers out- only being 10 days old- but I cried through the entire service last year missing Lucy so I was determined we would go as a family of FOUR this year. I wrapped Rivers up in my sling and stayed in the back most of the time but such a special night! We came home after the service, played with Lucy, read the story of Jesus' birth from the Bible, put Lucy to bed and then the three of us watched a Christmas movie. <br />
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Christmas morning Russ went to church so the kids went on their first outing with just Mama. We stopped by my dad's and went by Granny's before heading home. Coco and Will came to visit that night. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 23, 2012- Russ and I took Lucy to Ballard Park for some quality time together and to slide and see the lights.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making Candy Cane Pizza. Thanks Pinterest!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making cookies to decorate.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handprints with CoCo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our attempt at making garland......</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Eve at Meme's - Rivers and Poppy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaL-moohGIci6scvv6bIoZTVnIA9rYmhnML5sDZ0gPFYA6biKXsRPrxFIdmO2p7tZKXDaRAS8M5ZAZV7Fmssv89LTQBpbOjtKHIXD_0S5dAhcl-dVEdDMBmqWCL4oDDZjDHfJaPdJbhC7/s1600/DSCN4983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaL-moohGIci6scvv6bIoZTVnIA9rYmhnML5sDZ0gPFYA6biKXsRPrxFIdmO2p7tZKXDaRAS8M5ZAZV7Fmssv89LTQBpbOjtKHIXD_0S5dAhcl-dVEdDMBmqWCL4oDDZjDHfJaPdJbhC7/s320/DSCN4983.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meme and Rivers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rivers, 10 days old</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stockings at Meme's- LOVE seeing these together!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bIeDMZX_YbYItb233TAh0IUFYhTg5fUyWxkIrkw0af-qZSN6F0KjpPU2Ra2dVdSMhNWnRI1NeBTmcVG3C-rpOHA9z02LP774qoipHsvoJFJokzhcmjQFbp8mtXk2y4Ft5KbL3GJAX6JR/s1600/DSCN5017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bIeDMZX_YbYItb233TAh0IUFYhTg5fUyWxkIrkw0af-qZSN6F0KjpPU2Ra2dVdSMhNWnRI1NeBTmcVG3C-rpOHA9z02LP774qoipHsvoJFJokzhcmjQFbp8mtXk2y4Ft5KbL3GJAX6JR/s320/DSCN5017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening presents at Meme's</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG0EMqyw-2Wk89QNBQ2S17EpUNxyjzqKJQeDiz-gBFoTTGViUg_lkd3pPHwhOk63LRCLtNdweP8uEO6vo81C32BugcfwlYQT5U90VDjmzk-QRIKMZUUzZg3E4c5mU4sYihzzm_P02PJZp/s1600/DSCN5055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG0EMqyw-2Wk89QNBQ2S17EpUNxyjzqKJQeDiz-gBFoTTGViUg_lkd3pPHwhOk63LRCLtNdweP8uEO6vo81C32BugcfwlYQT5U90VDjmzk-QRIKMZUUzZg3E4c5mU4sYihzzm_P02PJZp/s320/DSCN5055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Eve 2011</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKLyK4agst099FmT58rOY09MFY4Xwo68S7PBuXrFqU1zBf4t3V0O-HHxFD_UMFteBwWqoldIKbwbOVzKMUjbXjVbVfSt40PWsvMEVdT8-v2YEjcLzwl361BmxNmv7zfRkVKhIjOGFADPO/s1600/DSCN5059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKLyK4agst099FmT58rOY09MFY4Xwo68S7PBuXrFqU1zBf4t3V0O-HHxFD_UMFteBwWqoldIKbwbOVzKMUjbXjVbVfSt40PWsvMEVdT8-v2YEjcLzwl361BmxNmv7zfRkVKhIjOGFADPO/s320/DSCN5059.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy loved her nativity set.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Morning 2011</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, Lucy got a light saber.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So tiny!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River's gift from Mama.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy and her cleaning trolley from Nana and T. This child loves to clean!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couch time on Christmas morning.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stockings at Poppy's house.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Morning 2011</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWxAw8rNciGgF9M3AtJjolXUJ6YnIOg_oyNBiyRpgY6kpdcESsD0qzjhuCsgNoDR5qmzo2uqBSM25XJjGylqbWMaapuJqahtnwcAaaTsXVCPipsLzb6nfyAKCAopbp0rIe3Lp7DLT5jOs/s1600/DSCN5139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWxAw8rNciGgF9M3AtJjolXUJ6YnIOg_oyNBiyRpgY6kpdcESsD0qzjhuCsgNoDR5qmzo2uqBSM25XJjGylqbWMaapuJqahtnwcAaaTsXVCPipsLzb6nfyAKCAopbp0rIe3Lp7DLT5jOs/s320/DSCN5139.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy and the chair Poppy gave her.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy and Cason riding the gator....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen set from Coco</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Will helping Lucy open her baby doll.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8q00fCDftG6PIY4Cg2qYIFWi7AjYlmoIqFwCNx8rR7C9EoBKrz3OY60CAa613HNzLN39r_qFrCbpKFyLWjUFKi6ylIXff6NKKoGM-iocwD_c0bC7h6aAhoM6EF0xxFzzbc-BQa545Bfn/s1600/DSCN5242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8q00fCDftG6PIY4Cg2qYIFWi7AjYlmoIqFwCNx8rR7C9EoBKrz3OY60CAa613HNzLN39r_qFrCbpKFyLWjUFKi6ylIXff6NKKoGM-iocwD_c0bC7h6aAhoM6EF0xxFzzbc-BQa545Bfn/s320/DSCN5242.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing the keyboard with Coco.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-70703700854271365362012-04-20T17:55:00.000-07:002012-04-20T17:55:48.904-07:00Letter for Lucy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
Dearest Friends,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We have been home with
Lucy for about eight months now, which is unbelievable for us to
consider. We still feel so blessed to have her, and we also fully
believe that she wouldn't be here without your incredible love and
support. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for everything.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We do however, have some news to share. We have been
talking about Lucy with our social worker, people at our agency, and
other adoptive couples, and have found out some things about attachment
that we wanted you all to know as well. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lucy is still very comfortable around strangers, and
still goes to just about anyone. From everything we've read and heard,
this isn't ideal behavior for an internationally adopted child. Although
we fully recognize that some of that is her personality, we also want
to make sure we are doing the best we can to assure she's bonding to us.
So after discussing this with a few people, and much prayer, we are
asking for your help. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If Lucy is around, we would be grateful if you would
ask before picking her up. Also, if you do have her in your arms, we
ask for you to stay within eyesight. Just make sure we are around.
Lastly, please be aware of how much affection you give her(hugging and
kissing). These are all things that help us establish ourselves as the
people who meet her needs. If you can help us out with these three
things, that would be a great benefit to us and to Lucy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We know how difficult it is to not pick her up when
she comes running to you, so we appreciate your help in this. The last
thing we want to sound like is overprotective parents. We still feel
like we have no idea what we are doing, but just like all of you, we
want to do what's in the best interest of our little girl. Rest assured
this isn't a permanent request. This just a temporary measure to
establish ourselves as primary caregivers. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We love you all very much, and we are so thankful for your partnership as we do this together.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Russ and Anna</div>
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</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-44797619069897370392012-04-07T19:22:00.001-07:002012-04-07T19:22:38.271-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
Today, The Orchard sponsored the city's Easter Egg Hunt. 20,000 easter eggs get sucked up in about two and a half minutes. Neither of those numbers is an exaggeration. This year is my fifth year to be involved with it, and every year I'm amazed at the mad scramble for eggs. It's frenzied and chaotic and swift. For four years, I laughed at it all. This year was different.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This year, MY daughter was there. She was going to be searching for eggs. She was going to be in the midst of the frenzied chaos and hundreds of other kids. I wasn't as amused this year. I was a little scared for her. Turns out I had little to be scared about. She apparently picked up one egg, attempted to open it, and got bored.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As I was coming home today, it occurred to me I had zero kids at last years hunt. We had met Lucy, flown to see her, and flew back to Tupelo to pretend like life was normal. Although last year I did celebrate Easter, there was a tinge of sadness every time I thought about what we were missing. It was a difficult day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When my daughter plunged into the fray, I knew everything was worth it. If you asked me to do it all over again, I would gladly suffer through the financial uncertainty, the endless hoop jumping, the highs and lows. I'd do it all again tomorrow, because having my family together is worth it. I have a daughter. I have a son. </div>
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<div>
God looked down at our need, saw that it was greater than us, and redeemed us. He voluntarily put himself through hell so that we wouldn't have to. I can't imagine what Christ went through, but I will celebrate differently, because when that's your child, you just do whatever it takes. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
God looked at us and did whatever it took so we could be called his children. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Easter is coming tomorrow. Easter is the celebration of hope bursting onto the most hopeless of situations. Easter is the celebration of light consuming darkness. Easter is the celebration of resurrection. It is the celebration of God stopping at nothing to make sure his children belong to him. We are his children now, and nothing can change that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Get ready for tomorrow, resurrection is coming.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-44025948565313806442012-03-30T20:51:00.000-07:002012-03-30T20:51:39.112-07:00Rivers is here- Part 5<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We finally were able to leave the hospital on Friday, December 16. We were so ready to be home. We snuggled Rivers in his gown and blanket to make the 5 minute drive to our house. As we pulled up to the house, Lucy was at the door screaming and waving. We were so nervous about how she was going to react. As we walked in she immediately hugged us but she wanted Rivers out of his seat so she could hold him. In that moment, many days and months of worrying about what it would be like to adopt and then 4 months later give birth seemed to fade away. This was our new normal and it was going to be just fine.<br />
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I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13<br />
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</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-70567450033144318242012-03-30T19:40:00.001-07:002012-03-30T20:54:46.633-07:00Rivers is here - Part 4<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We finally arrive in our room around 3:30 am. The nurses from the nursery were supposed to bring Rivers to us. Russ and I both laid down to rest when the phone rang. It was a nurse from the nursery telling us Rivers has choked on what looked like dried blood, had turned blue, and had taken a bit to get him over it. SCARED us so much!! The next 24 hours involved us meeting with neonatologists and pediatricians, Rivers getting several ultrasounds done, and us walking back and forth to the nursery every 3 hours to feed and spend time with him. Not ideal, but we were so glad he was doing okay and being monitored. They eventually felt like he just swallowed a lot of blood during birth so they suctioned his stomach and wanted to keep him with them for at least 24 hours.<br />
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We went to bed that night for the first time without him since he was conceived. It was so hard not being able to bring him to our room after giving birth to him but I know it was for his benefit. Finally, on Thursday afternoon, they wheeled him into our room. That moment was almost as emotional as his birth. We were so ready to have him with us!<br />
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Russ and his sister Leigh Ann showing Rivers to Lucy since he couldn't leave the nursery.</div>
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Soon after Rivers got to come to the room, Lucy came to visit. We gave her a book about being a big sister and a tea pot. She noticed Rivers and loved on him some but the majority of her time was spent running around the room touching everything she could. We could not wait to go home the next day and be a family of four!</div>
</div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-84414065905592638632012-03-30T10:48:00.001-07:002012-03-30T11:17:41.014-07:00Rivers is Here- Part 3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My epidural had worn off some. I was feeling every contraction but still being guided by Melinda on when to push. My nurse told me I would be probably be pushing for at least an hour and a half. After pushing 5 minutes I knew this was going to be difficult. Not to mention the vomiting I was doing! Poor Russ held the pan and would empty it each time. I have never been that sick. I think it was just a combination of the drugs, the epidural, and the intense heartburn I was having. I vomited from that point on and was even still going once we got our alone time with Rivers. I was feeling a little sorry for myself until she told me the vomiting was pushing him down more than my pushes were doing. I truly believe that is how Rivers came out so quick. At some point, my body took over and I was so determined to get him out. I could feel the contractions, therefore I knew when I needed to push. About 35 minutes later, he was almost ready to make his debut. As I am pushing, in walks Bernese, the lady who had told me that morning that I would still be there when she came back on shift. Unfortunately, she was correct but having her in the room was a trip! She had someone take her place in a c-section just so she could be there with me. She cheered me on as Dr. Young did his thing. A few minutes later, our sweet precious gift was laid on my chest. Russ leaned down and whispered how much he loved us and we sat staring at him, with tears in our eyes. Rivers was so wide-eyed and taking in the sights and sounds of his new home. We were allowed over an hour to spend with him. I held him in my arms, skin-to-skin, and let him get comfortable with his mommy. He tried to nurse but mostly just stared at our faces. I could tell he recognized our voices. Of course, sweet Russ was still holding the pan for me as I constantly got sick. But it didn't matter. Our sweet boy was here. At around 1:45 am, our family who had been waiting ALL DAY got to meet him. They were in love as much as we were.<br />
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Dr. Young and Rivers</div>
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Melinda - who stayed until 3 AM (should have gotten off at 7 pm) to help me deliver.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
William Rivers Polsgrove</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
December 14, 2011 12:35 am 7 pounds 12 ounces 20 inches </div>
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On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, <span class="woj">“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.</span> <span class="woj">Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, RIVERS of living water will flow from within them. - John 7:37-38</span><br />
<span class="woj"><br /></span><br />
<span class="woj"><br /></span></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-26968922083603030652012-02-02T19:03:00.000-08:002012-03-30T11:10:00.136-07:00Rivers is Here- Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We arrived at the hospital around 5 am. Such a strange feeling leaving our house as a family of three, coming home a family of four. Once we got settled into the room, this vivacious lady named Bernese came into the room to get things ready for the baby. She said she was about to get off but would be back at 11:00 that night and would probably see me then. She said she hoped I still wouldn't be lying in the bed but she had a feeling I would be. I told her there was no way it would take that long!<br />
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As they were getting my IV ready and preparing everything, I opened my Bible. I was a little nervous and just needed some comforting. I had taken my grandfather's bible to use. He passed away 2 years ago and I just wanted a little piece of him to be with me that day. As I opened his bible I thought I would read the verse that God had used to confirm that our son's name would be Rivers. We had liked the name but I wanted it to be more than that. I wanted it to be God ordained. God had shown a verse in John to both me and Russ at different times- just what we needed to know for sure. As I began to open the bible, I could not remember what chapter or verse. I looked down at the page in John that I had opened to and there it was- highlighted by my grandfather. He even had handwritten notes beside the verse. Just another confirmation that God had Rivers birth (and name) planned so long ago. I was missing my grandaddy that day and that just helped me to feel like he was a part of the day.<br />
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To start off, they gave me a pill that would hopefully help put me into active labor. I was still only 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. I asked my nurse, soon to be best friend, if I could walk around the room to try and help move the process along. After 4-5 hours of this, I was still only at 3 cm. Around 10 am, they started me on pitocin. I knew once they started me on this, I would most likely have to stay in the bed. Hour after hour my sweet nurse and doctor would come into the room. There was no change each time. They would up my dose of pitocin each time. Still no change. At one point I was on the highest level of pitocin my doctor would allow. I was having contractions, and they were hurting, but they were not unbearable and were not causing me to progress. Dr. Young kept saying, "I want to walk in here and NOT see you smiling. I want to see you barely being able to breathe. Then we will know the contractions are doing something!" I labored all day. Normally, you progress 1 cm- 1 1/2 cm per hour. At this point I had been in labor all day and barely progressed.<br />
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My goal the entire time was to get to 5 cm without an epidural. Once I was at 5, then I would make a decision about what to do. I had finally gotten to 4 cm but just could not progress beyond that. By this time it was evening. I was frustrated and tired. The contractions were hurting and I was losing my strength- mentally and physically. I had visitors in and out but by now I just needed to be alone. Laboring and talking at the same time just wasn't working any more. I still held off on the epidural....I was hurting but it was not unbearable yet.<br />
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My precious nurse came in to check me and I was still at 4 cm. She felt like maybe I needed to get a new bag of pitocin- one with a different batch number. She had a patient one time whose labor was similar to mine. She thought to try a new bag of pitocin and when she did, the woman progressed quickly. She thought it was worth a shot.<br />
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She hung the new bag of pitocin and IMMEDIATELY my contractions were different!! I was no longer smiling - it was game time! After laboring for a bit, she checked me and I just knew I was at 5 cm. When she checked, she said she would call me a 4 1/2 but others might would call it a 5. I knew then that it was time to get the epidural. The contractions were back to back and I knew if I had to labor for a long time I would rather have the epidural. About an hour later, I got the epidural and all I have to say is WOW. I was so excited- I just knew I would progress quickly and he would be here soon!!<br />
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Every hour or so they would check and I was still at 5 cm. By this time, I was receiving texts and calls from friends asking what was going on. At around 11 pm, Dr. Young came in to give me the talk. He knew how much I wanted to have Rivers vaginally so he was so precious about the way he talked to me BUT he was honest about what type of labor I was in. He told me I was not in a normal labor pattern. I mean- I progressed 2 cm in 9 HOURS. At this point he said I could labor all night if I wanted and we would see what would happen. He was not going to guarantee that I would progress any more but he was willing to give me the chance. He also gave me the option of having a c-section that night or the next day if nothing happened. Right now the decision was up to me, as long as Rivers and I were both doing well. Rivers looked great and I was doing good except my blood pressure was elevated but not to a point that he felt was dangerous. Dr. Young left the room to go perform a c-section and said he would come back afterwards to check me and see if I had made any decisions. Once he left, I fell apart. Not sure why- probably exhaustion but suddenly I could not think rationally. The spirit of fear was upon me and I could not shake it. I began to have thoughts about me dying if I chose to have a c-section. But then I would have the thought that something would happen to Rivers if I chose to try and keep laboring. I have no idea why but suddenly I was hysterical and fearful. I began to worry about the recovery process if I had a c-section. How would Lucy handle me not being able to pick her up for so long? I mean- I had a 17 month old at home. I couldn't be out of commission for so long. Russ began to tell me that neither decision was wrong. Either one would be the right decision. We just wanted Rivers here and safe. After a good, long cry I settled down. I asked God to show us the way and to remove all fear.<br />
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About that time my sweet nurse Melinda came in and said she would check me before Dr. Young came back. You could tell everyone thought I would have to have a c-section. But she was still hoping with me that I had progressed. It was around 11:30 pm now. She checked me and said, "You are at 9!" I told her to quit lying to me- that that was mean. She was like- seriously, I would not be joking with you right now. I could not believe it! Within 10 minutes or so she had me pushing! All of our family were still camped out in the waiting room- where they had been all day. We sent them a text to let them know they would be meeting sweet Rivers soon.<br />
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Aunt Kathy and Meme</div>
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Nana and T</div>
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Kissing baby brother 1 last time!</div>
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Coco </div>
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Meme and Kathy</div>
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La La, Nana, and T</div>
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Poppy</div>
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Thanks to my grandmother and aunt - Granny and Susu - for keeping Lucy all day :)</div>
<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-29414044570695082782012-01-31T19:29:00.000-08:002012-01-31T19:29:39.224-08:00Instantly Changed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
1 year ago today we were in Ethiopia meeting Lucy for the first time. Our hearts raced as we traveled to the foster care center to see her. We had dreamed and prayed for her for so long and that day, we were actually going see her in person. As we entered the gates, we were greeted with a sea of babies sunbathing. I looked around, trying to get a glimpse but couldn't seem to find her. It was then that I heard Russ say that he thought we had just passed her. I turned around and this is what we saw.<br />
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We spent 2 weeks visiting her but then had to return home just the two of us. Our hearts were broken and to this day leaving her is one of the hardest things I have ever done. We left not knowing how long it would be before we would return to bring her home. As we boarded the plane home, we saw two different families who were bringing their children home. I will never forget Russ comforting me as I stared out of the plane window, tears streaming down my face, heartbroken from having to leave our precious daughter. I could not wait to have her home and have her call me Mommy. It was six long months before we were able to travel back to pick her up. <br />
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Lucy has now been home six months. And while she has been saying the word mama for several months now, it is just recently that I feel she truly understands what the word mommy means. Tonight as I put her to bed, we shared laughs, kisses and hugs, but most of all we shared an understanding. As she was laying in her crib and I was about to walk out, she pointed to me and said "Mama." Again, she has been saying this word for a while...but she used to say it the same way as she would say hey and shoe. But tonight, as I reminisced about seeing her for the first time, I could tell she knows that I am forever. Praise the Lord for the healing and redemption that He has done and will do in all of our lives. Lucy is a true blessing in our lives and I am daily amazed and thankful for all God is doing in and through her life. Russ and I are truly privileged to be her mama and daddy.<br />
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<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158580366291668220.post-30729336000311633592011-12-28T11:24:00.000-08:002011-12-28T11:24:35.311-08:00William Rivers Polsgrove Is Here!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I cannot believe that it has been two weeks since Rivers was born. I want to document our birth story so this seems like the place to do it. SO, if you don't want to read about giving birth or hear terms such as dilated and effaced...then you might want to skip this post :)<br />
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On Monday, December 12th, I went for my weekly doctor's visit. I was a little over 40 weeks pregnant and just knew that Dr. Young would tell me I was close to being in labor. Instead, I was still only 1 cm dilated and my blood pressure was high. He recommended that we induce since each week my blood pressure had only gotten worse. I debated and debated. I called Russ from his office and we discussed this option. I had said from the beginning that I didn't want to be induced unless it was medically necessary. Well, my doctor strongly recommended we induce but also said he would give me the option of going a little longer as long as I got some testing done and came back in two days for him to check me. So I sort of had the option which made it harder to decide. But, I finally felt like I needed to trust him and his judgement so we would induce the next morning, December 13th. I came home from the doctor's appointment, packed our bags and spent the night with Lucy and Russ. Oh, and I cried all night. I was so excited about meeting Rivers but so sad about leaving Lucy and life being different once we returned. After all, she had only been home 5 months. I snuggled with her as I rocked her to sleep and thanked God for her being a part of our family and prayed that she would respond well to Rivers.<br />
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Once she was asleep, Russ and I went into their room and prayed over both our children, the birth, and thanked Him for the adventure that 2011 has been. Oh, and I cried some more. I truly think everything just hit me all at once - the long wait for Lucy, the trip to Ethiopia and having to leave her there, finding out we were pregnant, traveling to Ethiopia again, bringing Lucy home, the tough transition that followed, how far she has come, her first Christmas home, and now getting to meet our sweet son. I experienced every emotion possible that night.<br />
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We then went to bed for the last night as a family of three....a journey that lasted only five months. It was now time to become a family of four and we could not be more excited! I slept a total of about 2-3 hours. We woke at 4 am to head to the hospital. Here is our last picture before heading out. We were so excited and so READY to meet our sweet boy.<br />
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<i>....to be continued.</i><br />
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<br /></div>Russhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00750062760018428325noreply@blogger.com2