The Irwin Family Adventures!

We bring our wild, wild (mid) west adventure to a close.

2011-07-31T21:28:00.001-04:00

We have enjoyed this 3800 mile adventure. We spent our last 3 days in Bowling Green, Kentucky where we were able to meet up with great friends, the Palmers from Washington State, and the Elliotts from Owensburg, Kentucky. We spent our last 3 days relaxing and enjoying friends -- what a perfect way to end our trip. And as you can see from below, Erica finally got her way!

Playing Chess, Campground style!

We travel in 11 states, in 17 days and we came up with our favorite 5 things from our trip. We also thought we would share some of our favorite "Griswold" moments.

Our Top 5 Favorite things:1. Custer State Park - experiencing the buffalo
2. Needles Highway - beautiful mountains
3. Wild Life Safari outside of Omaha, Nebraska
4. The Bad lands
5. Amazing use of wind mills for energy in many of the midwest states

Top 10 Griswold moments:1. A man took a picture of me and Nathan while he was screaming (for hours) in the St Louis Arch - I think we will go into his scrap book as memories from his visit to the arch. I looked at Erica and said "did he take a picture of us?" with eyes real big she shook her head Yes! I just laughed and cried at this same time.
2. Dennis had to back-up the camper and truck down a 1-way road in St Louis when we couldn't fit under a bridge (and I had to get out and move "do not enter"signs). Yes, the rednecks have left St. Louis.
3. A Tractor-trailer driver had to motion for Dennis to pull our rig over because our electral system was dragging on the road!
4. Nathan got kicked out of the pool (No infants in the pool) and this red-neck Mom wanted to bonk the old-man tattle-tell that brought it to the lifeguard's attention.
5. Erica got us in trouble when she had to go to the bathroom at a campground that we were considering staying for 3 days. The manager didn't believe us and got mad and told Dennis he owed her $5 for flushing the potty - which Dennis said "No." The manager's heart sank when I told her my name (I had called ahead and she was dying for our business) and we decided NOT TO STAY at a campground with such a hateful manager. She lost a sale BIGTIME! Our joke for the rest of the trip was "we could always go back to Whispering Pines!"
6. We drove an extra 50 miles to the ONLY campground on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area. The campground had been CLOSED due to storm damage! We considered breaking in, but "Clark" didn't.
7. Our last week consisted of a bathroom door with the handle missing (we called it a semi-private bathroom).
8. Dennis "sub-let" a campsite in Okaboji, Iowa from a guy because there were NO campsites in the entire city and we had driven an extra 50 miles to stay in this area.
9. Dennis was locked out of the campground when he went to the store because he couldn't find the security code. Redneck from Tennessee!

10. We did eat t-bone steaks with Wisconsin brie cheese on PAPER plates and cut them with plastic knives. Sometimes it was hard to tell if we were more like "Clark and family" or "Cousin Eddie and family."

Thank you for sharing in our 2011 vacation adventures. We really did have a fabulous time and are very thankful for the opportunity to explore our amazing country.
Kathy

The fun continues as we travel a different route on our way home!!

2011-07-22T11:26:00.006-04:00

We continue to see many sights that are new to us and continue to play every day by ear. Sometimes it is a "good" thing, like when we were able to attend a rodeo when we stopped in Mitchell, SD, and sometimes it is a bad thing like when we drove for hours in Okoboji, Iowa, begging for a campsite ANYWHERE! Found a primitive spot and was thankful for it! But with the good and bad, we are having a blast.

The Bad Lands, South Dakota, are truly breathtaking!!

And fun to climb!!

This little gas station was a VERY welcome site. Our GPS said NO gas for the next 30 miles. With us getting 10miles/gallon pulling the camper, we would NOT have made it. Dennis' heart sank when he lifted the 1 functional pump and it would not work. But when he went in and woke up the attendant, she turned on the pump and we were able to get gas. Shew!!

The rodeo was in town during our stay in Mitchell, South Dakota. We were so excited to have this opportunity to attend. Joel loves horses and we all enjoyed this event!

Miss South Dakota, actually had to work, rounding up cattle, sheep, etc.

At the rodeo

When we arrived at the world's only Corn Palace the next morning in Mitchell, South Dakota, we were greeted with a parade!! The parade was in honor of the rodeo being in town (not in honor of the Irwins being in town, as Dennis likes to think).

All the artwork at the Corn Palace is made from corn and other agricultural products. The artwork is amazing and it is changed every year by different artists.

And who can drive through Minnesota without a stop by the Spam Museum. It was a fun time for all!

Making Spam!

What a delicious stop we made at the Mars' Cheese Castle in Kenosha, Wisconsin to get "our fill" of some wonderful Wisconsin cheese. Yum!!

What a great visit we had with Ann McNamara in her hometown of Chicago, Illinois. Ann treated us to a trip to the Shedd Aquarium and lunch, overlooking the beautiful Lake Michigan. The "Windy City" had a "hot wind" blowing this day, as the heat wave sweeps the midwest. Chicago is a "little bit" bigger than Knoxville (ya think??)

Unfortunately, our trip through Indiana was short and sweet. We traveled our most aggressive travel day yesterday, driving almost 500 miles. We ended up in our new home for 3 days of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Only 3 days left....we'll have to see what we can find in Kentucky!!

Exploring around Wyoming today...

2011-07-15T00:49:00.001-04:00

We have had a full, but rewarding day. We drove to Wyoming and enjoyed some lovely sites. We have grown to love the small towns we go thru when driving on the long stretches. Below you will see the smallest one we have seen so far, Aladdin, Wyoming, population 15.

We made a quick stop at Devil's Tower. Some may recognize it from the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

And tonight, we went to Mount Rushmore. It is truly amazing.

And below are a few pics from the campsite. Who says roughin' it can't be fun!?!

Verdict is in......South Dakota is amazingly gorgeous!

2011-07-14T01:26:00.002-04:00

We have had a full and exciting day, exploring the beauty of South Dakota. Our 1st stop was to see the work in progress of Chief Crazy Horse. I visited here when I was 12 yrs old and wow, has lots of work been done on this monument, but it has a very long way to go. The face was completed in 1998. Very interesting....

If you look real close, you may be able to figure out where we are from (evidently, this was orange day)!

Below is one of the narrow tunnels on Needles Hwy. We had a lot of fun exploring the Black Hills today.

Dennis and I tried Bison (buffalo) hamburgers today. We thoroughly enjoyed them....every bite!!

This is a Pronghorn. Very interesting animal.

And this is a bison (formerly buffalo)....and yes, this is a very close up picture because he liked our truck!

The baby bison were soooooo very cute. They would run to keep up with their moms! So sweet.

Lots of Prairie dogs

Erica was thrilled with the gigantic dandelions, so we had to get some pics.

We have had a great day, exploring the beauty of the Black Hills. Breathtaking.

2011-07-13T10:46:00.005-04:00

I was finally able to get some pics to load. the St. Louis arch was not the funnest adventure the Irwins have ever had. We were there with about 5 million of our closest friends.

This is me, moving "DO NOT ENTER" signs in St. Louis, trying to navigate this East Tennessee red-neck truck/camper around the city. Not sure why everyone was looking and pointing at us! Ha!

The wind mills in Rockport, Missouri

This pic and these next few are from the Lee G Simmons Wildlife Safari in Ashland, Nebraska. We loved this!!

You know in the movies, when the characters roll into the deserted gas station on fumes?? Well, that was the Irwins after this long stretch of don't-see-another-car road. We were so thankful to see this gas station!

Thankful for Kevin who fixed our tire that went flat in Alliance, Nebraska. So thankful that it didn't happen on yesterday's stretch of 150+ miles of farmland!

Saw some beautiful wildlife when our GPS sent us on about 10 miles of gravel road

Home for the next few nights. Off to do much needed laundry!

We have made it to the Black Hills...

2011-07-13T00:47:00.002-04:00

Well, im writing this on my nook because my computer will not work in the campground. So sorry, i dont have any pics on the blog yet. We are in the black hills and it is breathtaking. Our trip has been good so far. We were overwhelmed by the millions of people at the st louis arch; so that will not be the highlight of our trip. We did love the safari we took outs
ide of omaha. We have truly enjoyed seeing the countryside during the few times we were forced off the interstate. Can't wait to show pics of that. Hope to get pics up soon. You can see several pics on facebook if you are my FB friend. I can post them from my phone. We are planning mt rushmore and chief crazy horse tomorrow.
Kathy

1st stop - Cadiz Kentucky

2011-07-09T00:14:00.001-04:00

Well, we have had a great trip so far - no mishaps, all are asleep except me, so life is good. Couldn't get any pics to load - will try another day.

So very thankful for our friends that are house sitting and watching our animals. Helps us to enjoy our journey without worries.

Tomorrow, we move forward toward the "gateway to the west," the St. Louis Arch. Well, I'd better get some sleep - Dennis may want me to help drive!!

Kathy

What does an East Tennessee family do in South Dakota??

2011-07-05T21:49:00.007-04:00

We are about to find out! In just 3 days, we are packing up the camper, tying down the hatches to the pick-up, and heading to the wild, wild west (well, maybe the midwest)!! This 16-day adventure will be the longest camping trip (and farthest) that we've ever taken....so deep breath....here we go....
It has been over a year since I have updated the blog. It has been a year of devastating medical diagnosis for Nathan, but also of great healing. God tells us to trust Him, but sometimes circumstances can shoot holes in our faith. But He is faithful, even when our faith is failing. Nathan is truly a miracle and is doing great and continues to progress with his multiple therapies. He has the sweetest personality on the planet (not to mention he's pretty darn cute!). Yet, it has also been a great year of laughter and fun. God's gifts. I'm reminded of one of our favorite Erica quotes when she said, "ok everyone, act like we are a normal family!" which is a stretch for the Irwins! We use that quote quite often.
We thank you for your interest in our family adventures and invite you to follow along as we embark on the ~~Griswold~~ Irwin family vacation of 2011...

Kathy
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the LORD,

the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

2010-04-21T11:52:00.001-04:00

2010-04-11T22:36:00.001-04:00

Ahhhhh, so good to be home!

2010-01-29T09:37:00.003-05:00

Still loving the tap water!! The biggest thing I've come to appreciate since spending 6 weeks in a third world nation is the health department. Going to dinner and trusting the kitchen, having good plumbing at public places, priceless!
I'll post some pictures of Nathan & a few of Joel. I promised some of his birthday party, but thought you would enjoy some of him playing in the ocean.

Home at last

2010-01-21T23:06:00.002-05:00

What a great welcome at the airport!

Nathan and his new cousin, Noah!!

Rotten to the core!

We are coming home!!!!

2010-01-19T03:57:00.003-05:00

We have Nathan's Visa IN HAND!!!! We will leave here tomorrow night (Wed) at 8pm and arrive in Honolulu at 2:30am (wed). Yes, since we cross the international dateline, we will arrive BEFORE we leave! Ha!! (Can you tell I'm in a good mood!?)

We are so excited. Nathan will be a US citizen the minute his little foot touches soil in Honolulu! Yea!

We will be celebrating his arrival by hosting a "Meet Nathan" open house THIS SATURDAY at our house from 6pm til whenever! Come by and meet him! He is too cute, I'm telling you! He is so much fun! We cannot wait for him to meet the wonderful friends and family who will love him!! Joel is so excited to "ride 3 airplanes and go home and go up to his room!" Erica just wants to kiss her cats and see her friends.

So, come by and see us on Saturday!!!
Praise the LORD for all His blessings!
love,
Kathy

Happy Birthday Joel!!

2010-01-18T20:29:00.002-05:00

My oldest baby turned 15 yesterday!! Last night we celebrated Joel's 15th birthday with our friends here in the island. Let's see, we had 1 dad, 1 sister, 1 baby brother (Nathan), 3 baby girls & their Moms! It was a great time. We served our stable -- spaghetti & garlic bread with canned green beans & Birthday brownies! Joel really enjoyed getting some presents. Erica decorated the apartment with blue streamers and balloons -- Joel loved it!. It is funny when we get all the babies together --- there is always somebody that needs to be fed, changed, or just held.
These babies are gonna be rotten -- having all this time to jump to their every demand! It is even more funny when we get in a car with them all!!

Heard there is a possibility that our paperwork may arrive TODAY!! If so, we can leave out as planned tomorrow! Please pray this will happen!!

Will post pics from Joel's party soon.
Coming home soon!!
Kathy

Nathan's Visa is FINALLY headed to us!

2010-01-14T15:50:00.004-05:00

After waiting 5 weeks, they have finally printed Nathan's Visa. It is scheduled to arrive here on Jan 21st -- ONE day after our plane tickets are scheduled to return home. So we will change our tickets to Jan 22. As long as everything goes as planned, we should be home NEXT weekend sometime. We miss everyone so much.

Someone from church, please tell Ruth Smith that we LOVED receiving her card and note. Such as great treat to hear from home!
kathy

Still waiting on Nathan's visa...

2010-01-11T20:39:00.003-05:00

What a great day we had Sunday, as we were invited to go on a barge to one of the outer islands. A really generous man takes his family and friends out to the island every Sunday afternoon. He invited us because “he knows what it is like to be away from home” and wanted to include us. Wow, I hope we remember that kindness next time we meet someone “away from home.“ Talk about a Sunday afternoon picnic! They fired up the fire pit and cooked all afternoon as we had fun swimming and eating freshly grilled chicken, steak, hotdogs & fish. Well, the fish were a little too fresh for me -- straight from the ocean (not scaled or gutted). And we met a new friend on the trip, Cameron, who is the vice president of one of the schools here -- he is originally from Hawaii, but went to college in Chattanooga….and get this…is a UT fan!! He was glad to see a UT fan in the islands. Always good to meet kindred folk! What a GREAT beach - and very relaxing. Joel had a blast playing in the sand and gentle waves. Erica practiced her snorkeling with Dennis. Dennis loved exploring a small plane that was buried by the sea on the ocean floor. Nathan enjoyed the blanket under a giant shade tree & I fed him his last bottle for the afternoon on the calm beach as the sun was setting. Truly, untapped paradise.

Our paperwork is in Manila, Philippines, where Nathan’s visa will be printed and sent to us any day. We are getting conflicting info as to WHEN to expect it back here (so we can go home). The very UNHELPFUL worker at the consulate office in the Philippines told Dennis that the paperwork may be there for 2 weeks (what? sitting on desk, waiting on someone to put paper in the printer??). Huh. If the paperwork happens to arrive before Friday of next week, we will come home on Friday (probably - it will cost us $250 per ticket (x4) to change the return date). If not, we will (hopefully) come home as scheduled on Jan 20th. Although we are anxious to return home, we will miss the Marshallese life -- laid back and easy going. I have enjoyed all the “down” time especially with Nathan. If at home, our busy lives would not allow for times of holding him during a nap and endless playing with him. He “thinks” he can talk now & we just love watching him “talk” with all his facial expressions. We laugh and laugh and kiss and kiss on him!! What a joy he is.

My sister sent us a care package the other day full of snacks and goodies. Joel has enjoyed it most as she sent him pepperonis and spiderman cards and puzzles. He keeps asking if he can take them home. He keeps saying, “Daddy, let’s ride 3 planes and go home.“ We’ve enjoyed all the snacks in the care package. It was so great to get these treats “from home.” And Dennis loves to tell the story of picking up the package in the “customs” office. It was a 8x8’ room with a handwritten sign that said “CUSTOMS.” The Marshallese don’t get “bent out of shape” over anything. The sign got the point across, therefore, no need to change it. As Americans, it was hard to adjust to this laid back mentality, but it grows on you. If the store sign says it opens at 9am, what it means is “opens whenever they decide to open.” We went to a Christmas party that the invitation said was to start at 7:00. Only the 3 American families were there at 7:00, dinner was served around 9:00. Church last week “started” at 9:30, but most did not arrive until 10:30.

We will miss this country and the friendly people. I truly hope we can return one day so that Nathan can experience this different way of life. Hope to see you all soon!
Love,
Kathy

"Fried" fish, anyone??

2010-01-04T17:01:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of a "fried" fish that I ordered at our dinner celebration on the day our adoption of Nathan was final.

K

2009-12-29T19:15:00.006-05:00

I'll start with a few pictures (the most fun part of the blog)

Good news – Nathan’s visa paperwork has now left Honolulu and is headed for Manila, Philippines. This is the last stop before it heads back here to Majuro, Marshall Islands (AND WE CAN GET OUTTA HERE). We are optimistically hoping this will only take 2 weeks (although will likely take longer).

We FINIALLY found a decent, safe beach to play on. We traveled by boat to one of the outer islands and finally had sand, sun and fun. We went snorkeling and saw all kinds of colorful fish (and a few sea creatures!). What a great day that was.

Nathan is doing great. He is eating well & gaining weight. Of course, there is no way to weigh him, but his checks are filling out and his little arms and legs are getting some flesh on them. He seems very happy, other than a little congestion, but looking forward to having him checked out by Dr. Joe when we get home.

Joel is ready to go home. Every few hours, we hear “let’s go home.” He doesn’t understand why we can’t just go back home. Erica loves the sunshine & fun. She bravely went snorkeling and is ready to go again. Our suntan lines will look funny. In the Marshall Islands, women dress much more modestly than we do in the West. No swimsuits in public. We are starting to get used to swimming in our clothes, but it is very different.

I made a chicken casserole the other night, using canned chicken & we devoured it. I think Joel had 4 servings. Of course, I had to throw away the 1st box of stuffing due to bugs in it (very common) and the next box was stale, but we used it. We had 2 small cans of corn and some garlic bread with it. The groceries are so expensive here; Dennis and I calculated that one meal to be around $35.

Our plans upon return to the western world are to
1. Eat at O’charleys (including salads) and
2. Eat Oreos with BIG glasses of milk – lots of cold, skim milk!

We will be spending less time on the internet, as we are paying for by the minute and it is starting to add up quick. We hope to be making plans for home soon; we miss everyone so much. We can’t wait for you all to meet Nathan. We are also very anxious to meet our new great-nephew, Noah, born Dec 17th. This is Justin’s baby. He is doing great and we cannot wait to get ahold of him!!!

We love you all!
Kathy

Merry Christmas from the islands!

2009-12-24T17:34:00.005-05:00

Although it is only Christmas Eve at home, it is now Christmas day in the Marshall Islands. We enjoyed a quiet time of family togetherness and opening a few, simple presents. We spent Christmas eve enjoying pizza with Nathan's birthmom and brother & gave them a few gifts to open this morning. We've been invited to Christmas dinner with the local Yachters Club here -- they are nice to invite us misplaced Americans for some traditional Western cuisine. We are looking forward to familiar food.

We miss everyone at home terribly & wish this process of waiting on Nathan's visa wasn't such a long, drawn-out process. I really hope that someday, someone will remedy this needless wait for families. Nathan was legally our child on December 14th, but our own government makes us wait for our adoption packet (including his Visa)to be shipped to several different US offices and signed before he can enter the US. Very frustrating, that our own government creates such a hardship for us. In this day of internet & faxes, this is such a needless wait.

Merry Christmas & we hope to see you soon, although it will likely be several weeks from now.
Love you,
Kathy

Address

2009-12-22T05:12:00.004-05:00

Several of you have asked for our address here in the islands. Well.....they don't have addresses here....really, they don't! They only have 1 road & no house or business numbers. They contract with the US postal service and DO have po boxes. You can mail letters or packages to the po box. I would not recommend mailing anything of high value in case it "gets lost." In case you would like to a send care package....we would rather you send items for Nathan's birthmom (size medium) and brother (4 yr old).
Our address is:

Dennis & Kathy Irwin
PO Box 4012
Majuro, Marshall Islands 96960

My understanding is that it will take about a 1-2 weeks for things to arrive & it should only cost US prices (a letter would cost 44 cents). Remember -- don't send very valuable items.

Our cell number from the states is 011-692-456-6650. I think this DOES cost a lot to call here. Our service is not great, so you take your chances on getting us. We can accept text messages.

Keep us in your prayers.
Love you all,
Kathy

2009-12-21T21:16:00.000-05:00

Nathan with Rickson, his biological brother

Doing well

2009-12-18T00:53:00.005-05:00

We are REALLY struggling with internet service -- so please don't be offended if we have not responded to an email. We've not been able to get our email in 2 days. Our power was out most of the day yesterday (everyone needs to THANK GOD for KUB, right now!).
We are doing well. Nathan is cooing more and more each day. He is such a happy baby. We are struggling finding food that we like, but today we found a GREAT grilled cheese sandwich for only $4. Great! Erica did get her spaghetti last night -- we made it at the apartment -- with no meat. I'm scared of the meat at the grocery stores - refrigeration isn't the same here.
We took some candy and bubbles to Nathan's birthmom's community & you would have thought we brought them the world! It was great to see all the sweet smiles. will post more soon.

Kathy

A few pics

2009-12-16T03:07:00.009-05:00

I'm struggling with the internet here, so pictures are limited. But you can trust me, Nathan is SOOOOOOO cute! He is starting to coo & we just want to eat him up!!!! We are so in love!
We are now in an apartment but living conditions are still challenging, but we are adjusting well. We hope to find a safe beach tomorrow. Have found out that swimming in the lagoon is risky due to e.coli from sewage. We've also found out that the CDC has issued a TB warning for this island and we've been warned to stay away from the hospital unless it is critical. We've rented a car for only 1 week - can't afford any longer, so riding in the taxi cabs has me concerned with the TB warning. We will be staying in a lot and walking a lot to get to places. We will stock up on groceries and supplies during this week with a car.
We are so glad we packed our Wii. Dennis bought a TV and coffee pot today - we are in heaven!!
Love you all.
Kathy

December 14, 2009 is Nathan's "gotcha day!"

2009-12-15T06:30:00.002-05:00

Court date went well and Nathan Atner is our new son. We are excited beyond measure and totally worn out! After one more meeting with the lawyer, our visa paperwork will head off to Manila! And then we wait.
We have moved to an apartment, bigger, but still very modest conditions. I will update more soon (with more pics)!
Kathy

We met Nathan Atner!

2009-12-12T03:10:00.003-05:00

We made it to Majuro and within 2 hours, I was able to hold Nathan in my arms. He is smaller than I expected, but very alert. We met 2 other couples also adopting. One is at our hotel. We (us and other couple) were able to take our babies' birth moms out for lunch. The language barrier is somewhat difficult. We also took Nathan for his passport picture. Our court date is Monday at 9:00am (Sunday 4pm Knoxville time).

We went to the grocery store which was a different experience. We paid $10.20 for a case of diet mountain dew, but trust me, in this heat, it was the BEST we had ever had. We cannot get enough fluids in.

Kids are in bed now, Dennis and I tried to calculate how long it had been since we got up in Hawaii, but it was too hard. With crossing the international date line, and arriving in the NEXT day, we just couldn't "do the math." I just know we are all tired.
Please continue to pray, especially for this dear birth mom during this difficult time.
Pictures may be kinda few and far between, the internet is very slow.
Love you all,
Kathy

In Honolulu

2009-12-10T23:33:00.004-05:00

We have arrived in Honolulu for our 14 hour layover. The flights were good so far, Joel tolerated them well.
Dennis and Erica are out trying to find something to eat (Joel is ready for bed) It is 6:30pm honolulu time, 11:30 knoxville time.
Tomorrow (Friday), we leave out on a 6:55am flight to Majuro, Marshall Islands. We will cross the international dateline, therefore when we arrive in the marshall islands, it will be Saturday afternoon.
Thanks for following this journey with us!
Kathy

Busy, busy, busy

2009-12-02T22:50:00.002-05:00

Wow, the last few days have been a whirlwind. Preparing to leave the country for 6 weeks is harder than I thought!

Many of you may be scratching your head thinking, "I thought they asked for a girl." Well, to make a long story short, Yes, we were expecting a match with a girl, but due to an error, we were matched with our precious Nathan Atner. We choose to believe the LORD worked this out, leading us to our son. We are just so in love with him.

My church family is throwing together a last minute shower for us, this coming Monday night. Can't believe they would get this together for us so quickly, and during the busiest season of the year. I KNOW how busy everyone is, I am so grateful for my church family. They are SOOO excited with us! I can't wait for Nathan to meet them & know this wonderful group of people who will watch him grow, teach him about Jesus, and love him unconditionally. Even one of our youngest members (2 yr old) is excited for his arrival. All our AWANAs kids are praying for Nathan, and our Sparkies have his picture on their world map to mark the Marshall Islands. We are all so blessed.

This will be a crazy busy week, as we continue to prepare. We both have jobs that we love and will be working hard this week to prepare our workplaces for our "maternity" leave. Erica's state meet is also this weekend, so we will travel to Nashville for that (Go Erica!).

We have our airline tickets! They were less than expected!! Yeah! Please pray specifically that Joel will tolerate the long flight. This will likely be hard on him.

Can't believe I will have Nathan in my arms in 12 days!

Kathy
"But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Luke 18:16

Our court date is Dec 14th!!!!

2009-11-29T22:53:00.002-05:00

We are so excited to have our court date of Dec 14th. We also received more medical records and Nathan's current ht/wt. It appears he is healthy and growing well.

Plans are to leave town on Dec 10th, be in Hawaii on Dec 11th, in Majuro, MI on Dec 12. Shew! Tired, just thinking about it!

Please pray for us as we make these travel arrangements, as this is a very costly part of this adoption. Please pray that the airline tickets will be "less" than expected!

Can't wait to kiss his sweet face!!!!
Kathy

It's a BOY!!, Yep, a BOY!!!!!

2009-11-28T08:37:00.003-05:00

We are so excited to announce our referral of Nathan Atner Irwin, born in the Republic of the Marshall Islands on October 4, 2009! We hope to travel very soon!

Kathy
"Praise the LORD! Praise the name of the LORD; Praise Him, O servants of the LORD" Psalm 135:1

Will the phone ever ring??

2009-11-22T22:20:00.001-05:00

"Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary." Isaiah 40:31

Holding our breath.......

2009-11-15T20:12:00.004-05:00

We are praying that this is the week that we learn more about the baby girl God has planned for our family. We started this journey 2 years and 7 months ago and it is growing so exciting to think that the time may be close.

We updated our church family a couple weeks ago. It has been so exciting to share this time with them. They are truly our extended family -- they will be a large part of our baby's life, just as they are with our other children.

I hope this week brings news of "who" she is, what she looks like, when she was born, what her given name is, how soon we can grab her into our arms. And oh.... to see her picture....I feel like a love-struck teenager, always dreaming of "the day."

Keep us in your prayers and that our late minute arrangements will all fall into place.

Kathy
"...I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing." Ezekiel 34:26

I'm dreaming of a TROPICAL Christmas...

2009-10-28T21:35:00.006-04:00

Nothing is official......but I think we are really close to being matched with our baby girl. The long awaited day!! Once we receive our referral, our travel date will be right around the corner (travel 2-6 wks later). Once we arrive in the Marshall Islands, the adoption will be complete in a couple of days. But we will be in the islands 4-6 weeks, waiting on her paperwork to travel around the world (literally) so she can enter the US. Once we hit US soil, she is an official US citizen!!

This week, the lawyer has asked us for clarifications, more documents, etc. If I were a "half-empty" kinda girl, I would say this is all such a hassle. But the "half-full" girl in me knows that it is a good sign when the lawyer is fine-toothing thru the paperwork!!! Our agency coordinator also asked me how I feel about spending Christmas in the islands. Hmmmmm, let me think about it a minute.....

....On a tropical island with my family (including my new baby), far away from all the commercialism, all the deadlines, the alarm clocks, all the busy days the holidays brings. Quiet, simple, time alone with my family to celebrate the birth of our LORD......it will truly be paradise! Don't get me wrong, I love all the Christmas parties with family and friends. But just this once.....how great it will be to focus on the real meaning of Christmas! How real the Savior's birth will seem, as I sit quietly, holding the precious gift that took us half-way across the world and 2.5 years to realize. So, yes, I will not mind spending Christmas in the islands!
Keep us in your prayers!
Kathy
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16

.....still waiting

2009-10-22T19:39:00.003-04:00

Nothing to report. Still waiting on the call. On a good note, the family in front of us on "the list" now has a travel date. Such an answered to prayer.
I keep thinking we will get a call any day. I really thought we would be there and back by now, but we wait.
Keep praying.
Kathy

EXCITING news....

2009-09-02T22:24:00.002-04:00

We just received word that we are the NEXT family on the list to receive a referral for a baby/little girl!!!! There are currently 3 babies in the program that are due in the next 3 months. Could one be our baby girl???
Gotta focus on "nesting" this weekend and get ready for my baby girl!!!!
Keep praying!
Kathy
"Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints."Psalm 149:1

Go Vols! Look what one famous VOL did -- international adoption!

2009-08-26T23:19:00.002-04:00

Most of you know that we are big UT fans. And when we saw the below article in the paper last Sunday, we are thrilled! Mike Hamilton (UT athletic director) and his wife just completed a fabulous adoption of 3 children from Ethiopia (well, the 3rd child is hopefully close to completion). It is a great story that truly puts adoption in perspective --- many kids need a home, we've got a home. No brainer!

Mike Hamilton's adoption story

Kathy
"We serve an amazing God." Beth Hamilton

The LORD will provide.

2009-08-13T20:24:00.003-04:00

Nothing new to report as far as the adoption. There have not been any babies born in the last month, but several are expected very soon.

I just wanted to give the LORD credit for His working in our adoption. One of the biggest steps of faith that this journey demands is the financial step of faith. Our next financial requirement will be the BIG one and we continue to fight our fear by constantly reminding each other that the LORD provides when we follow His direction.

We are using a home equity loan to finance the adoption, and we are so very thankful to have this resource. But it is almost overwhelming when we think of the indebtedness this will bring.

Well, just this past month, the LORD provided a large fencing project for Dennis & also provided the staff to accomplish the work! It is MORE than a coincidence that this timing coincides with the coming adoption fee. It is in no way large enough to cover it all, but GOD IS PROVIDING!! It amazes me how He blesses us and I wish I would STOP being so shocked when He provides. That is the way GOD does things....we step out on faith...to the point that it is uncomfortable...and then He provides.

I just can't help but PRAISE Him for His goodness. This also serves as a confirmation that this adoption is FROM Him and not just a selfish desire to parent another child. I just LOVE watching my Lord work! I'm so blessed to have a small role in it.

Please continue your prayers. I'm also depending on Him to give me strength to chase after a small child (at my age!). This truly IS a spiritual journey!

Kathy
"If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." I Peter 4:11b

Fabulous family!

2009-07-23T22:15:00.005-04:00

We have such a great family. I just can't explain what a fabulous family we have. My sister and her husband came over tonight, and out of the blue, gave us $500 to go towards the travel expenses to bring our baby home! They have already given us a gift previously, back near the beginning of our adoption journey.
But you know, the best part is not the financial generosity. The best part is knowing that our child will have not only the love and support of our immediate family, but the truly unconditional love of our extended family. She'll be a part of fun family gatherings, family vacations, ballgames, birthdays, good times (and bad times). Never alone. So blessed. And she will be taught to trust in the LORD in all things, for He is trustworthy. She'll see that truth lived out not only in her immediate family, but in all the family around her. No, we are no where near the "perfect family," but there has never been a family more blessed than our family.

Can't wait for her to meet them all!!

Kathy
"He will love you and bless you and increase your numbers." Deuteronomy 7:13a

No news yet, check out the weather in the RMI...

2009-07-20T22:16:00.004-04:00

Weather report from the Marshall Islands.....
"When you visit the Marshall Islands, leave your winter clothes at home! Our tropical weather averages about 81 F (27 C) with little variation during the year. The waters in the lagoon are a comfortable 80F (26 C) year round. The region is known for mild winds and tropical showers.

The normal conditions are dry with low rainfall. Trade winds cool the atolls much of the year and the calm water months fall between June and September.

Our seasons are typical of the tropics. The rainy season runs from September through November. The dry season begins in January and lasts for 3 months.

Typhoons are not common in our part of the Marshall Islands."

Praise the LORD for that last statement...because that's a small little island! And how selfish would it be to pray for travel before the rainy season starts???

Kathy
"But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to
me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these..."
Luke 18:16

Wow, what a plane ride....

2009-07-17T18:28:00.003-04:00

While we wait, I looked up different flight options on expedia.com. On our trip to the Marshall Islands, we will change planes 8 times (I said eight times)!!!! I dread this, mostly for the kids. Most of the flight options have a 12 hour lay-over in Guam which will let us catch some sleep, but wow! It will take 44 hours to get there. (By the way, Guam is a US territory). We will likely to go Houston to Tokyo to Guam, then 5 more planes before arriving in the Marshall Islands. The good news is that the trip home will only involve 4 planes (MI to Honolulu to San Fransico to Chicago to Knoxville). I'm so thankful for that, as Dennis will go home with the kids and then I will travel home with the baby a few weeks later.

The price of the tickets range anywhere from $1600 to $3600 each. yikes. I hope the rumor that I hear about prices going down is TRUE!

Kathy
But if we hope for what is still unseen by us, we wait for it with patience and composure. Romans 8: 25

A little about the Marshall Islands...

2009-07-14T23:06:00.006-04:00

This is Majuro, the atoll (island) where we will be staying...

Tiny country. I found a website of the missionaries who started the only Baptist church in the islands. Cool to read about their work by clicking here The Utter family I've included some pictures of the church below. Can't wait to worship there!
I also found a good description of the islands from one of their websites...
"There are 29 atolls and 5 islands which comprise the Marshalls. An atoll is a ring of coral reef with a lagoon in the middle. The rings are not contiguous and are oval or irregular in shape. On Majuro, the island averages just less than 1/4 mile wide. It is approximately 1/2 mile wide at its widest point. The highest point is about 10 or 12 feet above sea level. The total land area of all the Marshalls is about 70 square miles, yet they cover over 70,000 square miles of ocean. If a map of the Marshalls were overlaid on top of the eastern US, they would extend from Michigan to northern Florida.

Laura Baptist Church, Majuro, Marshall Islands

Continue your prayers.
Kathy
"I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again,strengthen your brothers." Luke 22:32

Number 4 on the list and counting down...

2009-07-07T23:36:00.002-04:00

We have moved to number 4 on the list and counting down. One family ahead of us is expected to be matched soon, moving us to #3 family! Yeah! We are so very excited. Our agency told us that we could expect a referral within the next 3 months.

Now....we need to dust off the baby's room (been ready for 2+ years now) and think about how this really appears to be happening!!!

Kathy
"Rejoice in the LORD always; again I say rejoice." Philippians 4:4

Closer still....

2009-07-06T21:56:00.003-04:00

Even better news came today in the mail. Our FINAL USCIS approval came in the mail today. This means we may move up a little further on the adoption agency's list. Exciting. Do you think the LORD is really going to bring this about?? Can I let down my guard now???

Not really sure how to prepare. When we receive our referral, we will receive a travel date pretty quickly. I will be in country 4-6 weeks. Dennis and the kids will be there for at least 10 days. My hope is that it is during Christmas break & that they could stay the whole time. Of course, this is the peek of Erica's gymnastics meet season. She has worked so hard, in the gym daily, preparing for the coming season. We will let her decide if she feels she can sacrifice that much time away from the gym. I'm also checking into gyms in the RMI - but I have my doubts that I will find one.

I looked up some info on the RMI today. The population is 68,000. This is about 1/2 the crowd that fills Neyland Stadium every Saturday in the fall (UT football). Conditions in country sound very modest, yet expensive. I've been in touch with a few families that have traveled recently, so I love getting the tips from them. Sounds like I need to figure out how to take most of the supplies I need - diapers, bottles, formula, etc or expect to pay big $$. I've heard of one lodging place that is $85 per night. Sounded good, until I multiplied it by 35 days. Yikes. Hopefully, I can find somewhere cheaper, although most will not have a kitchen. Can't imagine a new baby without a kitchen. I feel the LORD has many, many lessons in store for us in the coming months. He has always been faithful, even when I've been whiney! He will provide.
Keep us in your prayers.

Kathy

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6

Great news today - We are closer!

2009-07-03T17:49:00.003-04:00

Today our adoption agency (Journeys of the Heart) contacted us, rushing us to finish the last loose ends of our dossier. They are expecting several babies to be born in the next 1-4 months and they believe ONE could be OURS!!!!!!! We are so excited.

I've guarded my heart for so long now, I've decided I'm gonna "let loose" and let myself get excited. The thought of having our baby girl by Christmas is overwhelming to me!!

Everyone -- Please pray that the LORD's timing is perfect and that He is preparing us as well as this precious birth family for the change in our lives.

Kathy

"O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph." Psalm 47:1

Quick update...

2009-05-28T23:10:00.003-04:00

Our agency told us this week that we will probably travel this winter. Exciting. I really have a peace -- I'm not in a huge hurry (like before), I'm just waiting for the right baby at the right time.
Keep praying. The birth mom of our child-to-be is probably expecting by now - pray for her.
kathy
God is still in control!

Step by step

2009-03-24T23:39:00.004-04:00

Dennis and I are off to Nashville to get our CIS fingerprints. We had these done nearly 2 yrs ago, but they expired (what?? how silly). To make it even MORE silly, we had fingerprints taken a few weeks ago for our FBI check - 5 copies of them. But can the FBI & the CIS share?? No, the CIS makes us go to Nashville (a set appt that we had no control of WHEN it was set).

Now think about this a minute --- if I committed a horrific crime, ANYone in the federal gov't could find me in a heartbeat (because they have my fingerprints). So why is it that the CIS can't trust the FBI's fingerprinting?? Do they NOT do a good enough job to clear people for adoption (yet good enough to convict of crimes??). Why, oh why, does our own government make it so hard to adopt???? Frustrating.

As far as the little boy goes, we are still not sure if we will be the family chosen for him or not. We've not heard back on more information about him. Regardless, we plug on, knowing with each step, we are one step closer to the child chosen to join our family.

We appreciate your prayers.

Kathy
"Again he measured a thousand; and it was a river that I could not ford, for the water had risen, enough water to swim in, a river that could not be forded." Ezekeil 47:5 --- Lord, help me to have deep water faith...KI

Direction??

2009-03-08T22:45:00.002-04:00

We are not really sure what is going on with our adoption right now. We have told our agency that we are interested in a 2-yr old boy from the Marshall Islands, but there are a few other families also interested. They will chose the family that is closest to getting their paperwork complete. And as many of you in the adoption world know, it is hard to say. It is a world full of waiting.....on fingerprint appointments, CIS approval, FBI notices. It is all so complicated.

Please pray that we are open and willing to follow the path that the LORD has already prepared for us and our next child.
Kathy
"...Then they said, 'Let us arise and build.' So they put their hands to the good work." Nehemiah 2:18b

We did it! Marshall Islands it is!

2009-01-13T23:41:00.003-05:00

Drum roll..........We've turned in our adoption application with Journeys of the Heart Adoption agency. We are excited to be stepping out on a new journey after months of indecision. We both have a peace that this is the direction the LORD is leading us. The program is extra, extra small. Only 1 US agency is licensed there (good thing). Although we've stated that we are open to a baby girl to age 3 years, we will most likely adopt an infant. The program is quite a bit different than many other programs. We are very excited. Help us pray for wisdom, patience and peace as the LORD prepares us for this journey.
Kathy
"Thou are the helper of the orphan." Psalm 10:14b

Marshall Islands????

2008-12-31T18:59:00.002-05:00

Maybe Lela is in the Marshall Islands. We are looking there now. Will post more if things pan out. Help us pray!!
Kathy
"God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him." Philippians 2:13

We're still waiting, looking, hoping...

2008-11-12T18:15:00.003-05:00

Boy, what a busy few months we have had! Whoa! We still do not know which direction to head, as far as the adoption. I just keep hoping and praying that we will be pointed in the right direction. We've not ruled out domestic adoption, but just haven't felt lead to pursue it either. Who knows??
Thank you all for your continued prayers. Please pray that we will KNOW the LORD's direction & that he will make it clear (no foggy walking) to us!
Kathy
"…learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the orphan. Fight for the rights of widows." Isaiah 1:17

No direction yet...

2008-10-05T20:48:00.005-04:00

We have went back & forth, looking at different programs, talking to people, agencies. I go in now with lots of hesitance and lack of trust when it comes to looking at agencies. I find it hard to believe anything they say. Jaded?? I guess I am.
I've been at the point of "forget it," the LORD must not want us to adopt! But today, our missions coordinator at church announced that our church will be going on a mission trip to Guatemala this spring. The orphanage (yes, going to an orphanage) houses 500 orphans, from birth to college age. The US stopped adoptions with Guatemala in January of this year. Huh! Money & corruption -- same disgusting song!
When you are caught in the misery of the adoption process, it is easy to start believing that there must NOT really be a need for families to provide homes -- why would the wait be so long, why would governments not WORK together, why is it THIS hard to rescue ONE orphan??? Are there really 143 million orphans that need a home??
Dennis shared with me his sunday school lesson today, about how God promised Abraham a son when he was 75, and then didn't provide that son until Abraham was nearly 100 years old. What patience he had. My patience is running thin - how I need the patience of Abraham. I just wish God would show us some direction -- where to look, when to proceed. Please help us pray for that guidance. Is He asking us to wait until Guatemala reopens? --- could be a year or two from now, maybe longer. I'm getting old, you know! We need some direction from our LORD....please help us pray for that specifically.
Kathy
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? James 2:15-16 (NIV)

Well....We are back to square one!

2008-09-06T08:27:00.002-04:00

It is officially over in Vietnam. The USCIS announced yesterday that the bilateral agreement between the US and Vietnam expired on Sept 1st. Our paperwork is headed back to our agency.

We are no closer to adoption than we were 17 months ago. We now have some very big decisions ahead of us. I looked up a lot of stuff on adoption from India last night.

Pray that we will follow the LORD's direction & be faithful along the journey. Pray that the we will have the emotional strength to climb this mountain once again, after being knocked off the Vietnam one.

Kathy
“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” Jeremiah 33:3

7 days left until SHUT DOWN & new career!

2008-08-24T21:24:00.005-04:00

In 7 short days, the bi-lateral adoption agreement between Vietnam and the US will expire. The 2 countries have NOT renewed the agreement, and as of today, do not have a temporary agreement in place. Bottom line.....Our dossier (paperwork) will be returned to us, without a baby. I'm sure Sept 1st will be a hard, emotional day. But we are optimistic that the LORD will lead us to the orphan for our family - in Vietnam or not. Our God is so much bigger than any "bi-lateral agreement." He directs our paths & we can rest in that knowledge.
On a good note, I begin a new career tomorrow. As many of you know, I returned to school 7 years ago to gain credentials as a registered dietitian (RD) so that I could be part of a medical team to treat children with epilepsy (as well as other nutritionally related diagnoses). My research and main interest is the ketogenic diet which is a medical nutrition therapy for intractable (resistant to medicine) epilepsy. Although my new position is at a general (adult) hospital (St. Mary's North), my supervisor has agreed for me to see pediatric patients (including epilepsy patients). The LORD has worked this out, down to the last details (trust me, I could write a book about how He worked this out). I just pray that I always give Him the glory. The ketogenic diet is very restrictive and hard on the families, so it is usually not prescribed until last resort. To watch a child stop seizing on this treatment is truly a miracle because they likely have failed every anti-epileptic drug available. It is always amazing. Many scientists work daily to figure out WHY this diet is so effective, but no real answers are available -- yet. I hope to continue researching this treatment as I practice. I'm so honored to be a part of this!
Continue your prayers for our family. Pray that we will be faithful & always seeking His will.
Kathy
"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might..." Ecclesiastes 9:10

Week full of celebration!!

2008-08-12T09:38:00.006-04:00

This was a week of celebration! My oldest nephew was married this past weekend. It was a great time. They are a precious couple with a great love for Christ. I look forward to watching as the LORD continues to use them for His kingdom. I was honored to host the bridal luncheon. I couldn't have done it without my mother's help.

And speaking of my mother...on the same day as the wedding, my parents celebrated 50 years of marriage! Isn't that cool?....their first grandchild was married on their 50th anniversary.

No adoption news. We are still looking at a few domestic programs. We met a sweet young lady this weekend (during the wedding activities) who gave us a contact for another domestic program.
Enjoy some pictures.
Kathy

My nephew and his lovely new bride...

The wedding party...

My parents, celebrating 50 years of marriage...

My other nephew & his beautiful fiancé (to be married next year)...

At the bridal luncheon...

At the tropical rehearsal dinner...

"Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied." Jude 1:2

Beach trip & still searching for Lela...

2008-08-03T14:46:00.007-04:00

My precious beach bums...
We just returned from a wonderful week at the beach with my sister and her family. It was very relaxing and tons of fun (we always have fun with them)! We also had dinner with my good friend, Diana & her family. Diana and I have became great friends during this adoption journey, as her adoption paperwork went to Vietnam on the same day that ours did (11/12/07) and together we have endured the "ups and downs" of this Vietnam journey. And we met FACE to FACE for the first time this week at the beach!
As far as the adoption, we have spoken with our social worker again who told us about a couple of interesting domestic programs. We're still looking at Bulgaria and Taiwan also. Right now, our plans are to wait on the LORD to direct us before moving forward with a new program.
As far as Vietnam, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice could change her mind at the last minute & continue a temporary agreement with Vietnam (but she gives us no indication that this will happen). Our US Representative, John Duncan, Jr., says he can't do anything further to encourage relations. Our Senator, Lamar Alexander, is still trying to help us. But overall, there is little hope for us to find Lela in Vietnam.
Continue your prayers & enjoy a few pictures from our dinner with the Thornleys.

Diana & I finally met in person!

Diana's Lili & Ana with my Erica & Joel

The Irwins

The Thornleys

Erica hit it off quick with Lili (home from China 2006)

"Children are a gift from God." Psalm 127:3

Nearing an end, looking for a beginning...

2008-07-19T17:42:00.006-04:00

Our agency told us this week that we are NOT matched with a child in Vietnam & we will NOT be matched before the shutdown. So, on Sept 1, our paperwork will travel back to us, with no baby. The USCIS issued a statement that seems to confirm that the US is committed to the shutdown. The report also talks about more corruption (in June alone, 5 children were returned to their VN birth families after the US investigations revealed corruption). This hurts my heart - the thoughts of someone taking my babies away from me because I was disadvantaged.
It's odd how we fret over the price of gas while this type stuff is happening around the world.
After a "I'm pitiful" cry and a waltz through Lela's room, I'm okay. Surprisingly, I'm really okay. I think the LORD is trying to show us to keep looking for our little girl. A month ago I had the "NO WAY will I ever go through this again" mentality, but now that we know the LORD is closing this door, we are looking for an opened one. Dennis & I have talked alot and we are not ready to give up...we believe the LORD has called us to step out in faith, so we are waiting for Him to lead.
Our local social worker is looking into a few options for us. And we've talked about looking at programs to Bulgaria (got some info coming in the mail).
Please keep us in your prayers as we seek His will. As I've said before, there is peace when we just trust Him (calm, relaxing peace -- much better than worry and woe). I will always love Vietnam & hope to go there one day.
Thank you my friends and family,
Kathy
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9

From bad to worse...Need prayer

2008-07-11T19:27:00.005-04:00

We were told by our agency that it is unlikely that we will be able to complete our adoption. It was hard to hear (see, on email). They doubt that we will get a referral before the shutdown on Sept. 1st.

Only a miracle would change things...this miracle would involve the US & Vietnam governments agreeing on a temporary agreement to continue adoptions (Congressional letter to Sec of State Rice).

Another possible miracle would be for the 2 governments to agree to "grandfather" cases like ours in to complete. We have over 14 months, thousands of dollars, and a wealth of emotional stock invested in this. It is hard to imagine that it could end like this.

Please help us pray for this whole situation...especially for the orphans that will never know homes if this shutdown happens. It just doesn't make sense - this world is so messed up...
Kathy
"If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me." Psalm 139:9-10

While we wait (and dream)...

2008-07-05T15:43:00.006-04:00

I love to search the internet and learn more about Vietnam & the people of Vietnam. We have so looked forward to exploring this great country when we travel to get Lela. I hope and pray we will be able to now -- since adoptions will be shutting down in Sept. Please continue to pray and enjoy some pictures of this great land that I came across.

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God;..." 1 John 3:1

Waiting, waiting, waiting...

2008-06-30T14:11:00.007-04:00

Nothing new to report. You would think that after 14 months of waiting, it would get easier....well, it doesn't. No news. With every day of no news, we draw nearer to the Sept 1st deadline when adoptions with Vietnam will shut down.
Keep praying.
Kathy
"...I do believe; help my unbelief." Mark 9:24

DTV 7 months!!!!

2008-06-12T17:58:00.003-04:00

Our paperwork has been in Vietnam for 7 months now!! Let's hope THIS IS THE MONTH we "get the call" from our agency! I can't wait!!
Kathy
"...learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the orphan. Fight for the rights of widows." Isaiah 1:17

The sand slips through the hour glass as Sept 1st approaches

2008-06-05T16:02:00.004-04:00

September 1st......the dreaded day. On this day, US citizens will not be allowed to adopt children from Vietnam. Of course, a miracle could happen, and the US & VN governments could change their minds, but there is little hope of that happening before September 1st.
Our agency is optimistic that we will receive our referral of Lela Grace before the Sept 1st deadline. So, we chose to be optimistic with them. We hope for a phone call everyday. I'm ready to hang the letters on her wall (painted letters that spell out "LELA" -- I've had them a while, but, protecting my heart, didn't want to hang them in her room). I've decided to believe whole-heartedly that this WILL happen. The joy is worth the risk.
Continue your prayers.
Kathy
"For in thee the orphan fines mercy." Hosea 14:3

Please continue to pray!

2008-05-29T23:13:00.003-04:00

Please continue to pray for us as we seek His will in this adoption. I never knew that this would be such a spiritual journey. There is peace when we are trusting the LORD, and there is fear when our faith is weak. Please pray that we will watch as the LORD unfolds His plan, and trust Him at every turn.
Thank you, my friends.
Kathy
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

In memory of Maria Chapman

2008-05-22T19:15:00.001-04:00

Scroll down and turn off the video before watching this video. What a precious family. Continue your prayers.

Pray for the Chapman family

2008-05-22T08:51:00.008-04:00

.......................Please be much in prayer for the family of Steven Curtis Chapman. They have had a tragic death and my heart just breaks for the entire family. Their teenage son accidentally ran over their daughter in their driveway. She later died at the hospital. Newstory SCC is the artist of the song that plays when you open my blog and also the founder of Shaohannah's Hope - a adoption advocacy group that I have on my links to information below. He and his family are great advocates of international adoption.
Kathy
"For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee." Isaiah 41:13

6 months DTV

2008-05-12T12:00:00.003-04:00

Our dossier (paperwork) has been in Vietnam for 6 months now (DTV = dossier to vietnam).
Last week we hit a "high" on this emotional roller coster, as several families from our agency received their "referral." Lots of beautiful babies, one step closer to their forever home. Keep praying that Lela will come soon.
Kathy
The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16b

Count your blessings

2008-05-07T09:20:00.006-04:00

With the situation in Vietnam so discouraging, I thought I would exercise a little "count your blessings" therapy and count a few of my recent blessings!

Brother enjoys his horse back riding therapy

12th Annual Rook tournament at our house last week
Old fashion tent revival at our church 2 weeks ago
Second place at the track meet yesterday

My LORD is so good to me!
Kathy
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful." Colossians 3:15

The Chaos continues....Vietnam disputes US claims

2008-05-02T10:07:00.005-04:00

The adoption relationship between the US and Vietnam continues its downward spiral. It truly is like a cat fight, but the children are the ones who walk away with the scars. As the US continues to accuse VN of corruption, VN accuses the US of disrespect and unsympathetic investigations. Another news story shows a different perspective than the "US" stories that I have posted earlier.
It is so hard to reconcile all the bickering between nations. If only the orphans were considered first and foremost in every debate. Unfortunately, money and politics take first seat.
Continue your prayers.
Kathy
"He will have compassion on the poor and needy, and the lives of the needy He will save.” Psalm 72:13

Official press release...

2008-04-25T09:35:00.003-04:00

We all know that adoptions from Vietnam will shut down in Sept. We have all been waiting to hear if they will process "pipeline" cases.
Last night, the US Embassy issued an official statement, confirming that some corruption has been found. They also relayed that Vietnam will continue adoptions to US families who have an official referral by Sept 1, 2008. We do not have an official referral (when our paperwork is matched with a baby's paperwork) yet. Since the US has been taking so long to investigate each case, Vietnam has slowed down referring babies to US families (instead they are referred to European countries). When corruption abounds, policing must also abound. I've attached links below.
Basically, this means we are in limbo. There is a good chance that we will not be able to adopt a child from Vietnam.
Dennis remains optimistic, but I find myself guarding my heart. We need a glimmer of hope. Continue to pray.
Kathy
“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7
MSNBC story
US Embassy press release - short version
Long version - disturbing

A year ago today...

2008-04-15T12:55:00.003-04:00

A year ago today, Dennis & I had a discussion that would forever change our future...we decided to pursue international adoption. One of my dearest friends came to me that day and told me that she was "expecting." With us all in our 40s, the excitement was laced with fear. She now has a beautiful, healthy baby girl, but that news spurred Dennis and I to re-look at our longtime dream of adopting a child. We had said "if the LORD ever provides the money, we'll do it!" But we realized that God doesn't work that way....He asks us to step out on faith & WATCH as He provides. We decided to step out. And here we are...one year later.
Although the adoption world is shaky right now, we are firm in our belief that the LORD has called us to provide a home for a Vietnamese baby. Continue your prayers as we watch this all unfold.
Kathy
"Then He will give you rain for the seed which you will sow in the ground, and bread from the yield of the ground, and it will be rich and plenteous..." Isaiah 30:23

5 months DTV!

2008-04-12T13:51:00.011-04:00

Five months DTV! That means our paperwork as been in Vietnam, waiting for Lela for 5 months now. We began the adoption process last April, and boy has it been an "up and down" year with international adoption. We are hopeful that we can bring Lela home this Fall, but as we well know, there are no guarantees with international adoption.
Please continue to pray that the LORD's will is done.
Thanks.
Kathy
"Do not move the ancient boundary stone in the fields of the fatherless for their defender is strong; He will take up their case…” Proverbs 23:10-11
..................................VIETNAM.................................

More from Phoenix

2008-04-04T23:24:00.007-04:00

Dennis & the kids went to the Botanical Gardens while I was at my conference today. Arizona is truly beautiful!

"He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3:11

Pictures from Phoenix

2008-04-03T00:41:00.007-04:00

After two long (delayed and changed) plane rides, this southern family found themselves in Arizona!! We've had a great day, getting to know this great state & seeing one of the 7 wonders of the world --- the Grand Canyon. WOW! What a great God we serve, One who would allow us to enjoy such a gorgeous sight. I thought you may enjoy some pictures of our journey thus far.

"How great are your works, O LORD..." Psalm 92:5

Still Waiting!

2008-03-28T13:54:00.001-04:00

Will the phone ever ring? We hope our agency will call within the next couple of months to tell us that we are matched with Lela. We grow more anxious, as we are quite confident that adoptions in Vietnam will shut down in September (the 2 countries can't agree on the new bi-lateral agreement and the current one expires in Sept).
Our agency keeps telling us that we are far enough along in the process...not to worry. Easier said, than done! So, we wait on the phone call. Keep praying as we fight fear and doubt. Kathy
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…I needed clothes and you clothed me” – Matthew 25:35-36

Yesterday was 4 months DTV!

2008-03-13T09:13:00.003-04:00

"4 months DTV" means our paperwork has been in Vietnam for 4 months. We are hoping for a match with Lela in the next 2 months....but it could be longer.
Keep praying!
Kathy
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14

Hope is restored!!!

2008-03-08T22:42:00.004-05:00

It is hard to share all the latest happenings with Vietnam adoptions....but let's just say...things are now looking brighter than they have in the last few weeks.
You know...the other day I was reading about Joshua in the bible. Don't you know that he wanted to say, "What? March around Jericho seven times? That will take too long, how about only once? but, seven?...that doesn't make sense!" But God had a plan and His timing was perfect. Same with adoption....it doesn't make sense that it is so hard and time consuming to rescue one child. Instead of spending my energies on trying to figure it all out....I need to keep marching (and trust the LORD's timing).
My hope was fading, but has now been restored!!
Keep praying!!
Kathy
Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary. Isaiah 40:31

Sad week in Vietnam....

2008-02-23T09:39:00.015-05:00

Sad news surrounds this week in the Vietnam adoption world, as 3 babies close to our hearts have passed away:
Charlie & Heather -- lost a baby girl, (recently matched)
Steve & Lynn - lost a baby girl, (recently matched)
Marie - lost a baby girl, (waiting to travel)
They have fallen victim to a rhinovirus that has invaded several orphanages in Vietnam. News Story

And on the political front, James & Dawn, were waiting to travel to get their baby girl. The US decided that the baby's paperwork did not meet their standards, therefore, a visa will NOT be approved. This family is devastated at "losing" this child due to a paperwork glitch.

International adoption can be an emotional roller coster. It can be mixed with hope as well as a helpless feeling. The LORD is in control and we must trust Him and His timing. Pray for these devastated families.

Please also help us pray that He will strengthen us and others as we answer His call to care for the orphans through adoption. And pray that the virus at this orphanage will subside soon.
Kathy
"In My Father's house are many dwelling places...for I go to prepare a place for you...I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:2-3

Great day in Vietnam!

2008-02-01T14:05:00.000-05:00

Recall, our agency had 4 families that ran into some adoption worries in VN back in Sept. Basically, their babies' paperwork was missing a few things and the families were stuck in VN (with their babies), and the USCIS would not give the babies visas to travel home. The last 2 families are now headed home (they've been there +4 months). The paperwork of the babies of all 4 families has been cleared! The story of one family can be found here: http://cbs5.com/local/vietnam.orphan.adoption.2.649012.html
There is a new paperwork procedure that is in place now, so hopefully we would not be in for such a turmoil with Lela's paperwork.....but my heart has went out to these families, unable to travel home. But now they are headed home. Praise the LORD!
Kathy

"I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised...." Psalm 18:3

US Warning Concerning Adoptions in Vietnam

2008-01-29T09:43:00.000-05:00

This warning was issued yesterday. http://travel.state.gov/family/adoption/intercountry/intercountry_3939.html Basically, the US is warning citizens NOT to begin the adoption process with VN. Our agency stopped accepting applications in December. A bi-lateral agreement is due for renewal in March (to take effect in Sept 08). There are several indications that make me think the US & VN will not sign this agreement and adoptions will be shut down. Of course, no one will know until March.
Our agency foresees our adoption to be completed by Sept 08. We cling to that hope, but we are also aware of the rocky relationship between the 2 governments. Nothing is guaranteed in international adoption.
Pray for the entire situation.
Kathy
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11

10 weeks DTV

2008-01-21T22:03:00.000-05:00

Today marks the 10 week point since our dossier (paperwork package) was sent to Vietnam (DTV - dossier To Vietnam). If things were the same as they were when we first began the process, we would be anxious with every telephone ring right now...thinking it was "the call" to say we have been matched with a baby. But with the recent problems, the time line is longer. So we wait. In a few months, we'll be watching the phone, waiting for "the call." I still hope the call will come quickly -- before we expect it! Lela will likely be around 3 months old when we receive "the call" so we do believe she has been born. Pray she will stay warm, be comforted when she cries, and will receive baby formula that will meet her needs.
Kathy
"He will have compassion on the poor and needy, and the lives of the needy He will save.” Psalm 72:13

While we wait......

2008-01-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

Big Sister likes to play with Ivy, the American Girl doll she received on her birthday in October. Funny, American Girl just came out with a beautiful Asian doll after we had started our adoption journey. We can't wait until we bring our real Asian beauty home!
Keep praying for Lela! Pray she stays warm during the cold winter.

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Waiting......

2008-01-02T12:16:00.000-05:00

We received word this week that our timeline could be a little longer than we expected. With the troubles in Vietnam, some VN provinces cannot complete adoptions -- which eliminates 2 orphanages that our agency used. There are still 5 other orphanages that continue to place babies with our agency. It looks like it may be summer or fall when we receive our referral (match with Lela). But you never know...we're still hopeful it will be soon.
It is sad on many levels. We were also told of some babies that had passed away due to the cold weather (this is the cold season in VN). Oh, how we take our medical care & our warm houses for granted.
It is hard to make sense of it all. It is hard to understand why the wait is so long when so many babies need homes.
We seek your prayers.
Kathy
"In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Lela's Room is ready!

2007-12-06T13:12:00.000-05:00

Now, all we need is Lela! We have had so much fun getting Lela's room ready. Just yesterday, we received a couple of baby dolls we had ordered. I just know she will love them! I hope she likes lots of pink, because her room is full of it! It's funny, I kinda miss getting all the paperwork together....at least then I felt like I was "hurry-ing" the process along. Now, there is nothing left to do, but wait! It's hard to wait, knowing she is so far away from us. Keep her in your prayers!
Kathy
"I will go before you and make the rough places smooth..." Isaiah 45:2a

CNN story on Vietnam Adoptions

2007-11-30T09:51:00.000-05:00

For those of you following the turmoil happening with Vietnam adoptions, please click on this link to a 4-minute CNN news report. You must listen to a commercial first, and then the adoption story will play.
http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/us/2007/11/30/cho.adoption.delay.cnn
This helps to explain some of the issues going on in Vietnam right now. Thankfully, we will apply for Lela's visa before we travel (new procedure), so this should not be an issue for families going in the future.
Remember these families who are in limbo in prayer. I can't imagine how hard this has been.
Kathy
"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:24

Her Name is Lela Grace

2007-11-27T11:18:00.000-05:00

We finally decided on a name for our baby girl...Lela Grace Irwin. She will be given a Vietnamese name, so we may keep part of it as a 2nd middle name. We will decide that later. We are excited to finally have a name. Now, we just need to get her home!
Kathy
"I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." John 14:18

Happy day

2007-11-14T10:50:00.000-05:00

One of our 4 families in Vietnam received word today that their baby's visa has been granted and they are headed home!! Remember the other 3 families in prayer, as they work toward this goal.
Kathy
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice." Philippians 4:4

Good news.....2nd post today!

2007-11-12T20:13:00.000-05:00

We just received word that our paperwork (dossier) is headed to Vietnam. In the adoption world, we call this DTV (dossier to Vietnam). This is truly a milestone, especially with the happenings as of late.
Keep praying!
Kathy
"O praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people." Psalm 117:1

Waiting....but hopeful

2007-11-12T16:40:00.001-05:00

Not a lot to report about the meeting today....other than, it appears that no drastic changes were made & adoptions will continue for the time being between the US and VN. I'm sure cases will be scrutinized more closely --- and this is a good thing. The US & Vietnam have a planned meeting in March to re-sign country to country adoption agreements. My hope is that relations will continue at least until this time. Of course, nothing is rock solid when dealing with international adoption.
Our 4 families continue in VN. Keep praying.
Keep praying that our faith will be strong through this, as it appears we are still moving forward. I made a comment to my Sunday school class about a month ago that I was shocked at how smoothly this adoption has been. Bam! Shouldn't have said that! Pray that we will follow as the LORD leads - be it through storms or smooth sailing.
Kathy
"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." Psalm 27:14

Vietnam adoption troubles

2007-11-09T08:26:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share a link with you in case you would like to follow the turmoil happening in Vietnam concerning adoption. http://vietnam.usembassy.gov/adoptionstatement1107.html
In turn, our adoption agency has halted all new applications to Vietnam. This is a little scary, but thankfully, we are far enough in the process, that we will still proceed. Of course, our prayer is that the USCIS will not close down US adoptions completely, like they did from 2002-2005 (due to similar happenings). The USCIS has called for a meeting that will take place on Monday. They have asked all licensed agencies to attend. This is worrisome. The USCIS has placed a new procedure that should help identify potentially unethical cases before families travel, so I hope this will help with future cases. Our 4 families are still in Vietnam and our agency has lawyers in place in the US and in VN, trying to release the babies' visas so they can come home. Keep praying for these tired, emotionally drained families.
As for us, we feel strongly that the LORD led us to adopt from Vietnam. And we fear for the orphans of this country if the US shuts down US adoptions there. Pray that we will not worry and trust as the LORD works out His plan.
Dennis & Kathy
"The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe." Proverbs 29:25

Pray for Vietnam Adoption Process

2007-11-07T10:33:00.000-05:00

I'll not go into great detail, but some upsetting happenings are going on in the adoption world in Vietnam right now. 4 families from our agency (as well as many others from other agencies) are in Vietnam, fighting for permission to return to the US with their babies. They have been there nearly 6 weeks (planned on 3 weeks) and have no word yet of when they can return. Several have spouses and/or children at home. Please help us pray for them and the entire Vietnamese adoption situation.
Thanks. Kathy
“For Thou art my hope, O Lord God: Thou art my trust from my youth.” Psalm 71:5

Paperwork is done; waiting period begins!

2007-10-12T21:30:00.000-04:00

Today we received our I-171H (last immigration document) back from our state capital with the state certification. So we fought the clock to get our entire paperwork mountain (aka dossier) to the post office by 5:00pm tonight. Our dossier will make a quick stop in Oregon to be reviewed by our adoption agency (PLAN,Inc) and then on to the Vietnamese Consulate!!

This is a snapshot of our dossier (paperwork to Vietnam)

This officially ends our paper chase. Now we enter the waiting game. We now wait until the Vietnamese government matches us up with our baby girl. When we receive this "referral," we'll receive a few pictures, a medical report & brief history (if known) and her location. Our agency works out of 5 orphanages from 3 different provinces. She will likely be between 5 and 8 months old at the time of referral. Shortly after the referral, we will get our travel date, which is typically 1-4 months after the referral date.
Help us pray for the government officials as they match us with a baby girl.
In Christ,
Dennis and Kathy
"For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba Father!" Romans 8:15

Another step closer!!!

2007-10-04T22:00:00.000-04:00

Today we received our I-171H form ---- this is an immigration form that puts the final stamp of approval (here in the US) for us to adopt an international orphan. We've been (patiently) waiting for this form for 6 1/2 weeks now. And finally, today it arrived!
Tomorrow, we will take this last document & go through all the hoops like all the other documents (notarized, county certified, to state capital for state certified). When we get it back from the state capital......we will be ready to mail the entire packet to the Vietnamese Consulate (final step before the Vietnamese government receives it).
We are getting ready here at home. My sister and her husband have us stocked with 2 pack-n-plays. A college friend made me a couple of "girly" spit cloths! Fun stuff!! One of our close friends is expecting a baby girl next month. At her baby shower last week, we made fun because she received baby nail clippers with magnifying glasses on them (like me....she is past 40 years old). She was quick to remind me that I'll be wanting some too!!! And she is right!! Good to know some manufacturers are thinking about us "older" moms! I know we are in for an adventure. This waiting has been hard.
Oh, and by the way, (in case you were wondering) we will be adding posts everytime we get another step closer. And for the 3 weeks we are in Vietnam, I'm sure we'll post just about everyday. How wonderful that our friends and family can share this adventure with us via the internet. And I'm sure I'll load up our blogsite with lots of baby pictures!! Thanks for your interest. Keep praying for us, our new baby & our baby's birth mom!!!
Dennis and Kathy
"You are the defender of orphans LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless..." Psalm 10:14

Beginning the adoption

2007-09-13T20:28:00.000-04:00

Hello! This is our first BLOG entry for the Irwins. Kinda fancy for us!! Our family is in the process of adopting a baby girl from Vietnam. We began the process about 3 months ago. Wow.....who would have thought the paperwork would be so involved. Our homestudy was completed last month and we have collected around 20 documents. Most of these have been notarized, county certified, state certified (Dennis always adds..."and fortified"), and will soon be authenticated by the Vietnamese consulate. We have been fingerprinted at the state capital & are close to the end of our paper chase! Shew!!!
We are currently waiting on an immigration document to arrive in the mail (form I-171H). When we receive it, we can send our entire package of documents on to our agency and then on to Vietnam. It will then be translated and go into the Vietnamese government system to be matched with a baby girl.
This "paper pregnancy" has been very consuming, but it has been exciting, every step of the way. We expect our baby girl will be between 5 & 8 months old when we bring her home. We hope to have her home by next summer.
We have 2 beautiful biological children: A boy (age 12) and a girl(age 9). We feel that the LORD has called us to add to our family through international adoption. As the process moves along, we become more and more excited about meeting the baby girl that the LORD has planned for our family. We talk about her a lot & we all debate on what we will name her.
We have began working on her bedroom which makes the process a little more real. Big brother is developmentally delayed and has a hard time understanding some things. We're hoping that getting the room ready will help him understand a little more. We're not real sure he understands that he will have "another" little sister. It seemed at first he thought we were going to trade his sister in, but we've assured him that, like it or not, we are keeping Big Sister!! Ha!
Big sister is ecstatic about being a big sister. We've pulled some of her old baby clothes out of the attic & she volunteered to wash them, fold them and place them in "the baby's" dresser. She's been trying some of them on a doll (that she's estimated to be the size of a 5-8 month old). We are all anxious to bring our new baby home.
We are very excited to share our experience with you all. I'll probably post when we have a more news -- when things are progressing. Please pray for us as we seek the LORD Jesus Christ in all these happenings! Please also help us pray for our baby's birth mother -- that the LORD will give her a peace concerning her difficult decision. Pray for her health & most importantly, that she will somehow come to know the LORD if she doesn't know Him already.

Thank you for sharing this special time with us!

Dennis & Kathy
"Don't be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the East and gather you from the West." Isaiah 43:5