Penn - Night Sledding

Arrival in Pennsylvania

We're in Pennsylvania and the kids are all happily sledding down the enormous hill in the front yard. I'll see if I can get any pictures in the dark!

Penn, Day 2

This is my best friend, Jane. She's been a great help on our trip and Steve is even learning to like her. She hasn't steered us wrong yet!

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This is the best-case senerio for a road trip. Unfortunately, they don't usually all sleep at once like this. Also, one of my organizational skills involves being able to pack a family of 7 into our van for a week trip and still be able to see out the back window.

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Luke, Kerry and Josh's house near Chicago. . . The kids woke up by 6:30am. I was able to keep them quiet until 7 and then I took them to play in the basement. After breakfast, Luke and Josh got out Mario Kart on the Wii and everyone had fun driving. Maybe Kerry should be worried that Josh's favorite way to drive is to drive off the road into the water just to hear the splash! :)

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. My cousin Kerry, her son Josh, and Taylor.

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We were on the road again about 9:30am and are thankful that the roads are much better today.

Chicago

We made it to Chicago safely. Wisconsin was really icy and we encountered lots of accidents and cars in the ditch. Now we're enjoying a few minutes with cousins before we head on to Pennsylvania. Pictures and more posts later.

To Pennsylvania

We're going to Pennsylvania! God (with help from some friends) has cleared the way! Thank you so much for all your prayers! . We're planning on leaving around 9am this morning so I'll try to type fast. Yesterday was an incredible day. It's amazing how much stress is shed when you let go and let God do what he needs to. . The weather appears to be ok for travel for the next two days. Thank you God in advance for safe travel. * The van - Steve called the car parts places here and just one fuel injector was going to be $135.00, so we knew right away that replacing all 4 was going to be out of our price range. But we thought that if we replaced just the bad one it would last us for a little while longer and we could replace the other 3 later. Steve called around in Sioux Falls and was able to find the part for $98, quite a savings. Then the issue was if we could justify going that far for the part. Steve was working all day yesterday at Daktronics and I had all the younger kids (Brit was at gymnastics) Steve called our friend Allen to check on the tire issue and his wife Jen was in Sioux Falls and he said she could pick up what we needed. Al also had her pick up two winter tires for our van. And she did, with two kids in tow. Thank you God, Allen and Jen! * My dad found out that we were only replacing one fuel injector and he said that it wouldn't be good for the van to drive without replacing all of the fuel injectors. So we paid for the one we could and he paid for the rest. Thanks God and the most amazing Dad ever! * Steve picked up his friend Kendal after work and they drove out to Allen's shop. Al replaced the front tires and Kendal replaced the fuel injectors. Thank you God, Kendal and Allen! * Later that night, they had the van put back together and Kendal was checking to make sure everything was running well. He noticed that the spark plug wires were sparking against some metal. I don't know a lot about cars, but even I'm pretty sure that anything sparking where it shouldn't isn't good. They called me, I called around to local automotive places and one place had what I needed. Thank you God for providing the necessary part locally. * But it was one minute to 9pm when I called the store and they close at 9pm. The guy volunteered to stay open if we could get there in a couple minutes. Thankfully, Steve's sister and mom were already on their way to Walmart, so I called and had them stop at the car place. They were able to purchase the needed part. Thank you God for providing the part and thank you to the good employee at Advanced Autoparts. * Steve and Kendal went back to the shop and installed the spark plug wires. Kendal was supposed to go coyote hunting that night because there was a full moon, or close anyway. Which apparently makes for good hunting because he can see better at night. It turned out that he didn't want to go because of the cloud cover making it difficult to see to hunt. Thank you God for the clouds last night. * Jen and Allen gave us a Christmas gift last night. I got Jane! I can't remember if I've mentioned Jane before, but we became very close on the Tennessee trip. Other than God and my husband, Jane is my new best friend. She's a GPS navigational system. She helped David and I traverse Memphis and never steered us wrong. David even learned to say her name on the trip. We'd be driving along and his little voice would pop up from the car seat in the back, "Jane, Jane, Jane," and then he'd giggle like crazy! Thank you God and Al and Jen for helping us navigate on this trip. * We are able to stay with my cousin Kerry in the Chicago area, which is just a bit farther than halfway. It will save us money that would have had to be spent on a hotel and gives us time to see family. They moved there last year for her husband's new job. Thank you God for placing family in the right place for the trip. And thank you Luke & Kerry for opening your home to seven of us. * In Pennsylvania, we are able to stay in Grandma Lewis's trailer that is parked right next to Aunt Carol's house. So we have a place to stay once we get there! Thank you God for providing a place for us to stay and thanks Aunt Carol for looking out for us. * The funeral will be on Saturday at 11am. We should have plenty of time to get there. Thank you God for your sovereign timing. * Steve already had Friday off as a holiday and he also gets a day off for the funeral, so because of the timing, he will officially only need to take 2 days off for a six day trip. Thank you God again for your sovereign timing. * Steve's boss is allowing him to take a laptop and work when and if he is able, so he might not even have to "take" the 2 days off. Thank you God for an understanding supervisor and thanks Adrian for making the trip easier. * I'm packing sandwich stuff and snacks that we had in the house so we won't have to eat out on the trip. Thank you God for your provisions. * We will be using a gift card we received for Christmas and money from Steve's job at Swiftel to pay for our gas. Thank you God for providing gas money and thank you Mike & Glenda for the Christmas gift card. I guess our weekend away will include 5 kids! : ) * Those were the biggest hurdles and God cleared them with plenty of space to spare! Thank you God for allowing us to go on this trip. ... I'm taking the computer so I'll be posting along the way. Keep praying! *

We'll Miss You Grandmas Lewis

We got the phone call early this morning that Grandma Lewis passed away. Grandma Lewis is Steve's grandma, his mom's mom. The kids got to know her when we traveled to Pennsylvania for Steve's cousin Tonya's wedding. She was a wonderful Christian woman. Steve doesn't think we can make it to the funeral but I'm praying that God clears the way, maybe literally, for us to be there with family. . It sounds like the funeral will be Friday or Saturday and Steve feels like there are too many hurdles to cross for us to make it there. The old me would just plow ahead and figure out how to make everything work. The new me has already prayed that God would make it clear whether or not we are supposed to be traveling there at this time. And that's a harder prayer than I thought because I really want to go. . Here are some of the hurdles we are facing: *Questionable weather conditions *Tires - Steve thinks the tires on the front of the van aren't winter tires and is leery of traveling on them in this winter weather *Van - Over the past year we have replaced 2 of the 6 fuel injectors in our van but Steve feels that it wouldn't be a good idea to travel that far unless we replace the other 4 first. We have friends that can put them in but we need to purchase them and make sure they have time to put them in before we leave *Money - Always an issue on any trip *Time - If the funeral is on Friday, we would need to be packed and ready to leave tomorrow Here are some blessings already: *The weather is better than it was *We now have relatives in the Chicago area so we have somewhere to stay halfway. (Hopefully! I haven't actually talked to them yet) *The kids are still on Christmas vacation and Steve has Friday, Saturday and Sunday off of work. He also isn't scheduled to work at the Swiftel Center over the weekend either. *Brittney doesn't have a gymnastics meet this weekend *We received a $200 gift card for Christmas so we can use that for gas money *I usually do laundry on Mondays so everyone has clean clothes I can pack today if I need to Please pray especially for Steve's mom, Sandy, as she makes travel plans and begins the grieving process. Also pray for God's will, and not mine, to be clear as to whether or not we should make this trip.

Christmas

I (Brittney Anne Maire Wilkins) this is what i wanted for X-Mas - A Phiten - A Cellphone - A Sock Monkey - Walmart Gift Cards This is what i got - A Phiten - A Cellphone - A Sock Monkey - A VISA Gift Card (goes anywere) - And 2 pairs of Socks Brittney Anne Maire Wilkins

Anthony Says

When Brittney was excited about yoga exercises on the Wii, Anthony exclaimed, "I love Yoga! Yoga is from Star Wars!" Brit patiently explained that Star Wars had YODA, not YOGA!

Reflect and Examine

Sometimes I know the right thing to do but I don't want to do it. There are relationships that aren't as easy or as fun as I would like, in fact, they can be downright difficult at times. I'd rather spend time doing what I know and like with people I know and like. It's much easier and more convenient for me. But aside from the fact that God didn't give me a spot on this earth for my own entertainment and enjoyment, sometimes those challenging relationships, the ones that are the hardest, are the very ones that shape me the most. . Pastor Kent asked the question yesterday "Does your dash have significance?" . After I die, my gravestone will look something like this:

Tricia Wilkins

April 26, 1974 - March 10, 2058

It's the dash that's in between the dates that shows how significant our lives were. . Will mine just remind people that I had 5 children, or that my children grew to be Christ-loving adults with honesty and integrety and servants hearts? Will my dash just remind people that I was married, or that I had a loving relationship with the spouse that God entrusted to me? Will my dash just remind people that I worked hard, or that I was able to help God accomplish something for his kingdom? Will my dash just remind people that I took time for myself, or that I took time for Him? . In the brief time we have before eternity, every moment counts! We don't know our final date and at that time, we won't have the opportunity to say I wish I would have been more. . Doing more for God won't be the difference of entry into heaven or not, because that's a personal relationship with Christ. It could, however, be the difference in whether or not someone else knows Christ through our lives and gets to spend eternity in heaven. Do I spend as much time on things that will last as I do on things that will fade?

Steve Trying to Snowboard

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

Steve is ready for snowblowing!

Carry Your Candle

This is one of my favorite songs because it reminds me that my life can, and should, have an impact on those around me. There is a candle in every soul Some brightly burning, some dark and cold There is a Spirit who brings fire Ignites a candle and makes His home . Carry your candle, run to the darkness Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn Hold out your candle for all to see it Take your candle, and go light your world Take your candle, and go light your world . Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to Light his own candle some other way See now your sister, she's been robbed and lied to Still holds a candle without a flame . Carry your candle, run to the darkness Seek out the lonely, the tired and worn Hold out your candle for all to see it Take your candle, and go light your world Take your candle, and go light your world . We are a family whose hearts are blazing So let's raise our candles and light up the sky Praying to our Father, in the name of Jesus Make us a beacon in darkest times . Carry your candle, run to the darkness Seek out the helpless, deceived and poor Hold out your candle for all to see it Take your candle, and go light your world Carry your candle, run to the darkness Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn Hold out your candle for all to see it Take your candle, and go light your world Take your candle, and go light your world

Snow & Christmas Eve

According to the weather man, we got over 12 inches of snow in the last few days. We we didn't get hit as hard as some cities in our state who got 18-22 inches. The interstate finally opened again yesterday after being closed for 48 hours but they still advised no travel. I was just excited that the kids could play outside for a while yesterday. The snow was deep enough that they could sled, snowboard and make snow forts in the backyard. I'm actually enjoying the time stuck at home. The kids have been playing with their Christmas gifts and as long as I split them up a bit they seem to be having fun too. * In spite of the weather, we did make it to the Christmas eve service. It's one of my favorite times of the year. And the kids all sit pretty still and pay attention because they know if they don't, I won't let them hold their candle at the end of the service. Then all the lights in the sancuary are turned off. The service concludes with a single candle, the Christ candle, which Pastor Rick uses to light the ushers' candles. They, in turn, light the candle of the first person in the congregation. As the candlelight spreads, it's a wonderful visable reminder of the love of Christ spreading throughout the world. It's also a reminder that one little "candle" can have a huge impact on the world around it. Once the candles are all lit, we sing "Silent Night". *

Merry CHRISTmas

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." *

Merry Christmas!

Good Advice

If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging.

Winter Wonderland

Turkey stuffed and in the oven, kids and husband playing downstairs, Taylor feeling better, and lots of snow on the ground with more to come! What a great day!

Thumbs Up & Down & Up Again

Thumbs Up - We got a Wii for Christmas from Grandpa Larry and Grandma Connie today! Since we're probably going to be snowed in for a few days, they let us open it early. Thumbs Down - Taylor is sick. She was up quite a bit last night and now she has a high fever, too. Thumbs Up - Steve is off work for four days! Thumbs Down - We probably won't see his mom for Christmas because of the snow storm. Thumbs Up - It's Christmas! Jesus was born for us no matter if we're snowed in or not : ) And that's what we're really celebrating!

Anthony Says

I was trying to prepare the kids for the arrival of a possible foster baby. When I told the kids we might be getting a baby for Christmas, Anthony responded with, "Can we get Jen's?"

The Grass Withers

This week I've said a prayer for my friend Dawn everytime I drive down the street. The For Sale sign in her mom's yard is a very visable reminder that Sharon's not here anymore. As sad as I am, I'm thankful for a God who reminds me what matters most. Dawn's mom took very good care of their yard, to say the least. I was thinking yesterday that it was a shame that after years of immaculate care, whoever moved in probably wouldn't take care of the lawn like she did. Then I was reminded, "The grass withers and the flower fall, but the word of our God stands forever." -Isaiah 40:8 . Beth Moore said it beautifully in my bible study this week: "Every time we think, surely there is more to life than this, we hear the hint of eternity in our hearts. Every time we learn the cancer has returned and we're willing to go through another treatment, our drive to hang on to life is the hint of eternity in our hearts. Every time our love outlasts our loved one's life, we hear eternity's murmur. Everything in us that cries out in resistance to an end comes from an innate sense that we were meant to be without one. Haven't we all noticed that something seems wrong and painful about 'endings'? We resist them furiously because a longing for 'always' is set in our hearts. Though our bodies are temporal, our souls are eternal, and our hearts testify continually to 'forevers'. This is true for the redeemed and unredeemed alike. All normal people long for a life without end and a love that doesn't end. For those who trust in Jesus Christ, the end of earthly life means only a change of wardrobe, from an earthly tent of flesh to a body fit for eternity. Our longing hearts will find fulfillment in Christ. (See II Corinthians 5:1-10) When at last our grip is peeled off the tree limb, we'll wonder why we ever hung on. Strangely, we hang on to this life in our hidden longing for the next. El Olam (Eternal God) set eternity in our hearts." -Beth Moore

Raising Healthy Boys

The following is a quote from columnist Kathleen Parker about how to raise healthy boys. I thought it was worth repeating. Parent your boys effectively "by being reasonable, smart and fully awake: Reduce boys' exposure to violence, be there when they return from school, help them with their homework, ask them about their day, let them cry if need be, support them when they're down, help them to see their options, teach them to handle guns safely if you have them, reward good behavior, provide meaningful consequences for unacceptable behavior, make reasonable demands, express moral expectations, talk to their teachers and hug those boys every chance you get. Don't ask them to be men when they're just little boys, but show them how to be real men by demonstrating the thing we as a society seem to have lost: self-control. It's the greatest gift, and it isn't even rocket science. It's just good parenting."

Brittney's Christmas Schedule

The following is an email that Brittney, age 11, sent to the family concerning Christmas. Without consulting any of us, I might add: i want to have a great christmas so i assume that everyone is going to be here the 24 and spending the night CORRECT? OK i have a scudule i will give u a room number and a scudule when u get here any other details im missing but i need to know about shane because im guessing that he is not spending the night so here is the scudule oh ps: can some one e-mail this to shane i dont have his e-mail Thanks BRITTNEY ANNE MAIRE WILKINS HAPPY CHRISTMAS The schedule was sent as an excel spreadsheet attachment: Christmas Morning 6:00 Wake up - Calling of the Flute 6:30 Reading of the Bible - When jesus was born 7:00 Open Presesnts/breakfast - depending on what adults want to do 7:30 Be thankful - rember what happened that morning 8:00 Girls bake cookies/muffins 8:00 boys play or do what ever 8:45 Eat Cookies/Muffins 9:15 PLAY!!!!!!!!! nothing - Do WHAT EVER nothing -Do WHAT EVER - Ladies cook lunch nothing - Do WHAT EVER - Ladies cook lunch nothing - Do WHAT EVER - Ladies cook lunch nothing - Do WHAT EVER - Ladies cook lunch 11:00 throught 12:00 LUNCH !!!!!!!! 12:30 Game time 1:00 NAP TIME - if want DO WHAT EVER

Riley

I told Riley about his little brother yesterday. This morning I showed him a picture. I've always known that he needs to know but wasn't sure of the right time to tell him. Then I realized that I don't ever want him to think I kept information from him. So we talked about it. Yes, one of the reasons I hadn't told him yet was to protect him and wait until he was ready to process some hard questions, but really I was also protecting myself from having to answer those hard questions. So I prayed hard and jumped in. Riley and Zeke have the same biological father and Anthony has a different father. About a year after Anthony was born, and after parental rights had been terminated, their mom had another little boy with a different father. Our boys now have the difficult task of trying to figure out why their mom kept him and not them. Zeke and Anthony don't seem to care at all at this point. I don't think it will ever matter to Zeke. It might to Anthony as he gets older but he's had such a great begining with his foster parents and we keep him in touch with them. They seem to be who he is most concerned about besides us at this point in his life. Riley is now telling everyone he had 3 brothers, which is true. So we'll see where this new journey takes us.

Decorations

On Thursday afternoon, Anthony and I got out the Christmas decorations. For the first time in quite a few years, it didn't feel like something I had to do. It was something we could enjoy doing. I almost always have the christian radio station on and during this season they play lots of different Christmas songs. Anthony and I set up the little white tree in the dining room. We always put the kids' decorations on that one because they like to show them off when people come over. When the girls were little, I got tired of saying, "don't touch this" or "don't break that'' all the time during the Christmas season. There are lots of breakable ornaments, trees that could tip over, a hand-carved manger scene from Israel, etc. So this white tree in the picture above sits on a table and underneath the table are a Little People manger scene with all the characters, Christmas books and Christmas things the kids can play with and touch. Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus. And I think the Christmas experience, especially for kids, should be one of wonder and awe! And sometimes that includes playing and touching.

A Few Last Tenn Pictures

The Tennessee trip went much better once David took over the driving. In downtown Memphis, they had this giant pyramid and a statue of Ramses. The statue was a gift from a king of Egypt. Sleeping baby! She was so bored listing to us talk all the time.

Today

Maybe Tomorrow

I have lots of interesting (at least I think so) things to post but today has been a kid-filled day so I'll post in the morning while they're eating breakfast! . Also, Pickards should be home with their little one now!!!!! Welcome home, Kassandra!

Deck the Hall with Bells of Holly

Brittney Anne Marie Wilkins Mom decked out the house with - candycanes on the tables in snowman coffie cups - a white tree which is decked out - lights up outside - my little houses grandma Connie bought for me - and dads little wooden jesus people - and a seasons greetings on the table as well Brittney Anne Marie Wilkins

My Nose Is Back to the Grindstone

I made it home but haven't had much computer time. This morning, after making sure the kids had all their snow stuff and dropping them off at school, I spent a couple of hours at bible study. What a great and inspirational bunch of women! Then it was lunch with my sister and a few hours cleaning my kitchen. Yes, I said hours. It looked like, well, like I left 5 kids and a husband alone for 10 days. This afternoon, I picked up six kids from school, got them their snack, and then attacked the bathroom. It was a disaster! After that was done, I made a dessert for the Foster/Adoption Christmas party tonight. Tonight, it was fun to visit with people at the party I don't see very often. I love adoption stories! Also at the party, the kids got to sit on Santa's lap and open a present. Zeke and Anthony were really excited to see Santa but Riley whispered to me that he knows Santa isn't real. He knows because he didn't bring any reindeer. After we got home, I cleaned up our bedroom and helped Brit with her homework. I did get a text from Jen letting me know it was "wings night" downstairs at the hotel in Tennessee. Bummer! That was my favorite night!

I'm Coming Home!

I've made it most of the way home from Tennessee. I flew out of Memphis into Minneapolis. I've got a 3 hour layover here before I catch my plane to Sioux Falls. Steve's bringing all the kids to pick me up. I'm so glad I could be with Al and Jen this past week. I hope I was helpful enough to be worth bringing along. The birthmom signed the paperwork to terminate her parental right and we had a quick lunch with her and an adoption specialist. I think unless you've been there, it's hard to imagine how hard it is for the birthmom to see and hold her baby for possibly the last time. Even though the Pickards plan on returning for visits, the birthmom will still be missing that small bundle in her arms. We know that Kassandra will be in a great home with wonderful parents, but please remember the birthmom in your prayers as she is grieving the loss of her baby. Before we left, Jen gave the birthmom a photo album with pictures of Kassandra and room for lots more pictures that Jen will send as she grows. At the hospital, Al and Jen gave the birthmom another very special gift. They had a Black Hills gold locket engraved with the baby's name and put a picture of her inside. They gave it to the birthmom to remember her little one and the very special gift that she entrusted to them. As much as we are rejoicing right now, someone else is hurting. Jen is a very special adoptive mom to be so considerate and empathetic about the birthmom's feelings. I'm proud to call her my friend!

Tennessee Day 10 - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

The Good - I get to head home today to see my kids. I really miss them and it sounds like they miss me. My plane leaves Memphis at 1:30pm, I've got a 3 hour layover in Minneapolis and then I should arrive in Sioux Falls tonight around 8:30pm. I've loved being here and being a part of this, but I can't wait to see my kids! . The Bad - Allen is now sick. Enough said. . The Ugly - David's diapers are the nastiest things ever! His diarea has a smell like no other. He threw up again last night, but again, seems to be fine this morning. Jen says he smells like a thousand pigs! . The birthmom goes to court today so that will be another milestone crossed for everyone. Apparently the daycare for her little boy is closed because of no heat, so the social worker asked if Jen would be willing to babysit him during court. Of course, she said yes. So she, Kassandra, David and I will be leaving shortly for the courthouse.

News From Home

I have a lot to blog about but I'm so tired that I think I'll only get just a bit written. For me, the day started with a phone call at 8am. Apparently Taylor was just told yesterday at Christmas program practice that she needed to be dressed completely in white today. That's already short notice, but she neglected to mention it to Steve yesterday. So he wasn't aware until this morning. I guess she was supposed to be a sheep but the costume provided was only a sheep's head and neck. . The day ended with a text message from Brittney letting me know that Taylor was making her a message with some unusual materials. When I called her back, I found out that they were making a concoction for a foot massage. And the materials they were using were ketchup, beans, peanuts, popcorn and lemon juice. Steve wasn't overly impressed when I called him and asked him to check on the girls in the dining room. I think he's probably still helping them clean up!

Tennessee - Yesterday

David could spend hours playing on and pushing the luggage cart. .

Tennessee Day Eight - Beautiful Baby!

Tennessee Day Eight - David Is Better

David is finally feeling much better tonight but Jen is still not feeling good. David wasn't able to keep anything down, even Crackers or Sprite, until close to 5pm. For all you concerned grandmas out there, we sent Al to the store for Pedialite and David was able to drink that this afternoon. Then since David wasn't throwing up, we all went out to Baskin Robbins for ice cream but that was about as much as Jen could handle tonight. . Kassandra is still doing great and is still completely adorable. Court is supposed to be at 9:30am Monday to terminate the birth mom's parental rights. Birthmom and the adoption specialist will be in court but Jen and Allen don't need to be there.

To Grandma Pribyl

David says thanks for the Tigger!

Tennessee Day Eight - Sick

Jen and David were both throwing up this morning. So far, the rest of us are ok.

Tennessee Day Seven - If You Were Wondering

Just in case you were wondering about the baby's name, the birthmom named the baby Briahna Kassandra and Jen & Al just switched it around to Kassandra Briahna Pickard. That's why I now call the baby Kassandra.

Tennessee Day Seven

Baby Kassandra is doing well. She's eating about 2 oz at a time and only cries when she's hungry or gets her diaper changed. She's generally a very content baby. Court is scheduled for Monday so I'll be flying out on Monday afternoon but the Pickards will have to wait until the paperwork makes its rounds of states. Hopefully it won't take long. A specific prayer request would be for the process to make it quickly through the various people and states so they can go home. Don't worry, I'll teach Jen how to Blog before I leave. We'll work on that today or tomorrow. . Jen and I were sitting in the room discussing possible options for informational help with Kassandra and her black skin and hair. I sent up a quick prayer for a connection to someone who could help once they were back home. No sooner had I prayed than two black women walked by our window. They stopped by to admire the baby. After lots of ooh's and ahhs' and friendly chatter, one of the women, who is a pediatric nurse, volunteered her phone number for Jen to call any time! God is so good!

Tennessee Humor

I need to share a few of the humorous parts of our trip. Imagine the really sweet southern voice of the adoption specialist/social worker who knows nothing about the midwest. *When we were looking for a place to eat that would be child-friendly without being totally fast food, it was more difficult than we thought to make a decision. Alicia misunderstood our dilemma and asked, "Do y'all not eat out?" *As Al, Jen and Alicia were driving back from the hospital one afternoon, they passed quite a few yards that had lots of bags of leaves by their curbs. Jen, refering to the fact that she lives in the country and doesn't have to do much with her yard, told Alicia that she was glad she didn't have to rake leaves at home. Alicia responded, "Y'all don't have trees there?"

Tennessee Day Five - Out of the Hospital

Allen and Jen were at the hospital by 9am this morning. They were there when the birth mom was released but they had to wait for the social worker and the proper paperwork before they could take the baby. David and I were there for about an hour. It was one of the most frustrating hours of my life, not to mention Al and Jen's. The baby was kept in the nursery behind a pane of glass. Because the hospital could only release the baby to the adoption social worker and not to Allen or Jen, we could only watch the baby through the pane of glass. It was so hard to watch her cry and not be able to rush in and pick her up. The nurses didn't seem to care if she was comforted or not. She cried for quite a long time by herself in the nursery bed. And all we could do was watch her through the window. Then the nurse who was head of discharge let us know that if the social worker wasn't back with the paperwork before she got off shift, the baby would have to stay until tomorrow. Fortunately, Alicia made it back with the paperwork just as that nurse had her coat on to leave. We were so thankful that Alicia was allowed into the nursery because when the baby started crying the nurses didn't do anything but Alicia went over to the crib and picked her up. She stopped crying immediately. This is the Pickard family leaving the hospital. Because of the law, they couldn't take the baby out of the hospital. The social worker had to take her out of the hospital.

David actually got to see his sister when she wasn't behind glass!

Tennessee Day Five - Got Her!

Allen and Jen were able to take the baby home (or at least to the hotel). They're signing paperwork now and we're all ready to eat so I'll post more later this evening. But the important thing now is that they have her in their custody! . Court to terminate parental rights will be on Monday and then they have to wait for the paperwork to go through Tennessee, then to South Dakota, then back to Tennessee. They can't leave the state with the baby until that's all completed so they won't be back home for a while yet.

Tennessee Day 4 - David Meets His Sister

David's not sure what to think!

When it was a choice between a cell phone and a sister, the cell phone won!

David hugging birthmom. We thought it was really sweet of him when he reached out for her, until we realized that there was a button behind her that he wanted to push.

Tennessee Day Four - David Meets Kassandra Video

Tennessee Day Four - The Best Laid Plans

This morning David was still sleeping and Allen and Jen needed to meet Alicia, the adoption specialist, at 8am. So I offered to stay in the room with David so he could sleep and they could go eat breakfast and still get to the hospital on time. Because we shipped our clothes ahead of time, we tried to keep the clothing to a minimum, knowing we could always wash clothes here. Since we're on day four, it's about time to wash clothes. Especially since David is out of clean pants. Jen and I decided he could just go to breakfast in his PJ's and then I could throw them in the wash with everything else. Then he could get dressed in clean clothes and still have clean PJ's. The best laid plans never seem to work out like you'd expect them to. Because David slept so long, he had completely wet through his pajamas. There was no way he could wear them to breakfast. Fortunately, there was a pair of his jeans hanging in the bathroom that had gotten wet with just plain water yesterday and they were now dry enough to put back on. We went down to breakfast and again, everyone thought David was adorable. Now we'll just hang out for a while until Jen texts us that they want me to bring David to meet his new sister.

Tennessee Day Three - Evening

Allen and Jen came back from the hospital around 3pm. They played with David for a few minutes and we talked. Then I took David downstairs for a while so they could get some rest. There's nothing better for not getting rest than spending the night in a hospital! . Later, we went downstairs together for the hot wings, pop and snacks that the hotel provides. Even David tried the meat from the wings and liked it. . We all went cruising around Memphis in the evening. Don't you think we should have been 'Walking in Memphis'? Ok, bad joke. Anyway, we drove by Graceland, which was all lit up for Christmas. Then we saw a HOT NOW sign and had to pull in. For those of you unfamiliar with Crispy Cream Donuts, when you see the HOT NOW sign on, it means they just made the donuts. We drove through and got a box of melt-in-your-mouth donuts for our evening snack. . When we got back to the hotel, Jen and Allen took David swimming and I put adorable baby pics on the blog! What an incredible story to be a part of! Thanks from Al and Jen for all the words of congratulations!!!!

Brittney Says

Brittney is into texting since I left a phone at home for her now that we don't have our home phone anymore. One of the texts yesterday: "Hey when are you commming back becaus2e there is a dance and i need 6 dollers if i can go" I thought she might miss me but apparently she only misses my money!

Anthony Says

I interrupt this baby story for a brief 'Anthony Says': Heather just texted me this morning. Apparently Anthony informed her that he could not have his cold at Christmas because he didn't want to give it to Santa.

Tennessee Day Three - Baby Pictures!!!!!!!

Tennessee Day Three - Jen

One of the awesome things about the birth of this baby is that Jen got to stay with the birth mom for the entire labor and delivery. There's nothing like the awe of the birth of a child. Jen was able to be present from the moment her daughter first entered the world!

Tennessee Day Three - Specifics

The Pickard Family welcomes Briahna Kassandra Pickard Born Dec 7, 2009 Weighing 6lbs 1oz

Tennessee Day Three - She's Here!!!

Got the picture a few minutes ago of a beautiful little girl! Went to work teaching David how to say "sissy". I'll post detail later as I know them but for now we can celebrate her birth into the world! Congrats Allen, Jen and David!!! I'm going to take David to Walmart for a "I'm a big brother" shirt he can wear when they're ready for him at the hospital :)

Tennessee Day Three - More Waiting

Davids napping and I'm going to read. We're still waiting for "The Call".

Tennessee Day Three - Still Waiting

This is our hotel. . We're enjoying the view while we wait for Baby Pickard to make her entrance into the world. I just had a text from Allen that they are still waiting. David and I had fun at breakfast. Of course, everyone in the hotel loves him! I love southern hospitality. As I was going through the buffet line with David, one elderly gentleman offered to walk beside me and hold David's hand so I could get the food. Just because I'm capable of doing it myself doesn't mean I'm not smart enought to accept help when it's offered! David loved his eggs, sausage and yogurt!

Tennessee Day Three - Labor

Allen got a text at 2:50am that the doctor had broken the birth mom's water and she was dialated to a 4. Then at 3:10 am, he got the call that labor was progressing quickly. So he got ready and Alicia picked him up at 3:18am to head to the hospital to await the birth of the baby. Since it's labor number nine for her, they expect it to go fairly quickly. I haven't heard back yet so now David and I will have breakfast and wait for the call that they want David at the hospital. Then if everything goes as expected, we'll drive over and greet his new sister!

Tennessee Day Two - Evening

When we left the birth mom's house, Allen, Jen, Alicia and the birth mom went out for supper in one vehicle and David and I left in the rental. I used the GPS to get us close to the hotel but then we detoured into Target for a little shopping. (Allen requested a fan) After that, I drove David through McDonald's and we came back to the hotel. We played and wandered around the hotel for awhile until Allen came back around 7:30pm. He took David swimming while I watched the Vikings game. The birth mom requested Jen stay with her at the hospital after she was induced so we're just waiting to get the phone call from Jen that the baby is here. David's sleeping so I'm having fun on the computer.

Tennessee Day Two - Afternoon

At 3pm, Alicia, the adoption specialist, met us at the hotel and Jen jumped into her van. Allen, David and I followed in the rented minivan. Then we drove twenty minutes to the birth mom’s house. The actual distance wasn’t that far but the social and economic distance was huge. We were in a part of town that we normally wouldn’t even drive through and we definitely wouldn’t go there at night. . When we arrived, the birth mom greeted us warmly but seemed very preoccupied. In addition to lots of kids and phone calls, she had numerous people in and out of the house as we waited. The other kids of hers that we met were beautiful children. David had the unique opportunity of meeting the brothers of his sister! He wasn’t quite sure what to think. . It was a very interesting experience. Jen and Allen brought along a box of goodies for the kids made in our home state of South Dakota. They thought that was great! I have to admit that I was doing fine until Jen pulled out a baby Christmas ornament. Even though I knew it was coming, it made me cry. It was a rocking horse that said Baby’s First Christmas. She presented it to the other kids so they would have it to remember their sister. The ten year old took it gently and asked if he could open the box and put the ornament on the tree. Then he quietly asked if they would ever see their sister again. . As an adopted kid with a biological brother that I love, that pretty much broke my heart. . Jen let him know that they would come and visit every year so they could see her. And I know she means it because they’ve been amazing with David’s birth parents and grandparents. . The part that makes that heartbreak worthwhile is that after having been in that house and seeing even a part of what the other children live through, it’s good to know that this new baby girl will have every opportunity to succeed in life. Just to give you a vague idea of the living conditions, there were holes in the floor of the house and at least 6 kids and a few adults living there. And in order to heat the house, the stove burner was on and the oven door was open – even though there was a toddler living in the house. There’s lots more I could say but that part is definitely not my story to tell. Suffice it to say that this baby will be well loved and cared for with Jen and Allen. I'm so glad for this little girl that she will have them for parents.

Adoption Specialist

The wonderful adoption specialist, Alicia.

Tennessee Day Two - Morning

After a breakfast we thought it would be fun to go to Arkansas. So we did. What a cute family! David rode on his box of diapers at Walmart. David got up at 7am and but we let mommy and daddy sleep in so they could be ready for their big day today. A suite is a great place for an active little boy. There's plenty of space for his toys.

Hula Fest Gymnastics Meet

Brittney texted me to let me know she metaled in every event at her gymnastics meet today. She also received 2nd place in All-Around.

An Ah-ha Moment

I need to interupt this story on adoption for a brief ah-ha moment. . I was taking a shower early Saturday morning before we left for this trip. I do some of my best thinking in the shower as it's one of the few moments I have to myself - except for the numerous kids pounding on the door yelling "Mom!" But I digress. As Iwas in the shower, I was praying for God to bless this trip - giving us safety flying, health for the baby, smooth transition of physical custody, my emotions, etc., when suddenly it occurred to me that I had no right to ask God for protection and blessing on a journey that I'd even asked Him if I should be on. Many times in the Bible, people got into issues that weren't good for them simply because they were on a path they choose instead of the one God had for them. As soon as they got back on His path, the blessings could begin again. Understand that I'm only talking about myself here because I know Jen and Allen have prayed extensively about this part of their lives. But I wanted to go on this trip, I knew I could help and I really wanted to be a part of the experience - except I forgot to pray for God's guidance to know if I really should be going. How could I ask and expect God's blessing when I hadn't even asked if it was in His plan? So as much as I wanted to go and as much as I had already committed, I asked God right at that moment in the shower if I was His will that I go. And if it wasn't, would he put up roadblocks so I would know that I shouldn't go. I told Him I would listen and if there was a roadblock, I wouldn't try to figure out a way around it myself but would simply know that it wasn't in God's plan for my life. I was ecstatic discover that God did want me on the trip as He not only didn't put up roadblocks but he easily disolved previous roadblocks, without any help from me! Thanks for allowing me to be a part of this God!!!!!

Tennessee - We're Here

6:00am - Up and drinking coffee 7:30am - Spending time with the kids 8:20am - Dropping Brit off at the gymnastics meet 8:30am - Setting up for PRIDE training 9:00am - PRIDE training 12:00pm - Arrive at the airport to fly to Tennessee Taylor wrote me the most darling little note that said, "I'll miss you mom, love Taylor Wilkins." Like I might think another Taylor will miss me this week! All my kids did pretty well saying goodby at the airport. I quickly changed clothes, the plane was loaded, I hugged everyone and we climbed into the plane. The take-off was great because the plane had forward and rear-facing seats and I've never experienced a take-off facing backwards before. David, who is only 1, had a great time flying. For the most part, he was free to roam around the cabin so he thought it was fun. There was quite a bit of wind in Missouri and in a small plane, a little turbulance can toss you around quite a bit. But after a pit stop for gas, the rest of the trip went very smoothly. . We touched down in Tennessee around 5 o'clock. We arrived into a beautiful private airport and then drove to the hotel. We've got a suite, free breakfast, two tv's, and internet access. What more could anyone ask for? . The adoption specialist met us at the hotel and then drove us to an authentic BBQ restaurant for supper. The food was spectacular! I had a 1/2 rack of ribs with coleslaw and sweet potato fries. We chatted as we ate and then I kept David occupied so Jen and Allen could visit with the adoption specialist. I'm sometimes a very harsh judge of character but I can honestly say that I love their adoption worker. She was fun to chat with and really cares about Allen and Jen. . By the time we arrived back at the hotel, David was asleep so we got our stuff situated in the room while we talked. . Tomorrow Allen and Jen are scheduled to meet with the birthmom and some of her kids around 3pm, and David and I will go along. Then at 6pm the birthmom is scheduled to be at the hospital to begin inducing labor. David and I will probably come back to the hotel and play for the evening while everyone else is at the hospital. Then everyone just waits. The hospital is in a very different neighborhood than Allen and Jen are used to so it will be a very different experience for them. Please pray for strength and encouragement for them and peace for the birthmom.

Today Was a Blur

I think I accomplished everything I was supposed to today. I'm still not exactly sure. Zeke, Anthony, Riley and I just got back from setting up for the gymnastics meet tomorrow. There was a lot of great help so it went up pretty quickly. I still need to review my material for PRIDE training tomorrow and then at noon I'll catch the plane the plane to Tennessee. The friends I'm flying with even offered to bring Qdoba to the airport since I won't have time for lunch. What considerate people! I won't be blogging again until we're settled at the hotel but I am bringing my computer along so hopefully I can let you in on this special story of adoption. I've never been in on a birth adoption, unless you count my own, so I'm looking forward to the range of emotions that the new baby will bring. I can't wait!!!

Great Suprise

I had to run to the store for bread and milk so Steve wouldn't have to worry about it while I'm gone. Brit, Tay, Anthony and I were just leaving the milk isle when I heard someone call my name. I turned to look and was greeted by a blast from the past. Aaron was my first love. We dated in high school and into college and were actually engaged for a short period of time. We parted on good but emotional terms so we really haven't had contact since his brother's funeral 13 years ago. I still remember the last time I saw him. He had just finished singing at his brother Tim's funeral. Steve attended with me and Aaron's new girlfriend was with him. He looked so handsome in his suit. He hugged me for a long time and then shook Steve's hand and told Steve to take really good care of me! I was a very special young lady. What a great guy! So today in HyVee, I was so suprised to see him. I knew a few years ago that he worked in the area but I had no idea he was still around. We hugged and talked and I introduced him to my kids and he showed me pictures of his little boy. I smiled all the way to the car!

Love Is Not Selfish

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor. - Romans 12:10

Nights are Hardest

Nights are always the hardest in a strange place. The poor little girl would wake up sometimes and not know where she was so we spent from 1-2am rocking downstairs. I finally just put her back in Taylor's bed and crawled in beside her. She would still wake up but I could comfort her right away so she would go back to sleep. Now Taylor just wants to wake her up so she can play. Wish I had time for a nap today!

Adorable

We have the most adorable 2 year old little girl sleeping downstairs in Taylor's room. Like I always say, what's one more when you've already got a bunch?

Leaving on Saturday

I can't wait to tell you about our journey to Tennessee! But it's not really my story so before I share too much, I'll check with my friends to see how much I can share. We'll be flying out on Saturday at noon but I will be taking my computer along. We'll see how much blogging I can get done with an active one-year old who'll be out of his comfort zone: )

Love is Kind

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. -Ephesians 4:32

Happy Birthday!!!

It's my mom's birthday today!!!!

I'm flying her to Italy so we can have a wonderful authentic pasta dinner and do some Christmas shopping. Just kidding! But I did manage to get the card in the mail on time this year. : )

Happy Birthday Mom!

Love is Patient

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. -Ephesians 4:2 .

Anthony Says

I needed to run a few errands so before we left the house, I told Anthony he should visit the bathroom. He responded, "Visit? There's nobody living in there!!!!!"

Tennessee!

Definitely going to Tennessee! Leaving on Saturday after PRIDE training.

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