Two Months Since DTE

Well, have now been on the waiting list for two months. So, that means we have an estimated 7-9 months more to go before we will get a referral for our baby. Tim and I are trying to be patient, but at times it is very difficult! We have been pretty busy around here with work, gathering baby items, getting the baby's room ready, planning wedding showers, yard work, family time, etc. It helps to pass the time constructively:)

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month

I should have posted something at the beginning of the month, but better late than never!!

Ten Ways to Help Prevent Child Abuse

Be a nurturing parent.
Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams.

Help a friend, neighbor or relative.
Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children,
so the parent(s) can rest or spend time together.

Help yourself.
When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point
you feel overwhelmed and out of control - take time out.
Don’t take it out on your kid.

If your baby cries…It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby
won’t stop crying.
Never shake a baby - shaking a child may result in severe injury or death.

Get involved.
Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services
to meet the needs of healthy children and families.

Help to develop parenting resources at your local library.

Promote programs in school.
Teaching children, parents and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe.

Monitor your child’s television and video viewing.
Watching violent films and TV programs can harm young children.

Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program.


Report suspected abuse or neglect.

Getting Ready!

Yesterday, Tim and I went to a few yard sales to try to find some things for the baby. We thought we would take advantage of yard sale season to help get some of the things we need at bargain prices. At the first yard sale we went to we met a great family. We were telling them that we were adopting. They told us that they also adopted and shared a little about it w/us. They were very excited for us and it turns out that they are friends with one of the family's from our Ethiopia group that we meet with once a month! What a small world! They were so nice and even gave us two adoption books to read to our child and a book to help our child sleep through the night. It really is amazing how God connects us with one another. We have met so many amazing people and families through this awsome journey. It is so neat! Well, yesterday I was a "baby shopping momma" as my mother called me!! We found a lot of great stuff and are almost ready for the baby. We found a swing, floor gym, bouncy seat, crib/mattress, a travel system w/two bases, some toys, books and a bunch of clothes. I spent the rest of yesterday washing baby clothes, putting the crib together, and cleaning the stroller, etc!! Baby Brakefield we are ready to bring you home and cannot WAIT to meet you and hold you in our arms. I am feeling a little sad today as I look at all the baby stuff and have no baby to put to sleep in the crib, soothe in the swing, or cuddle and love on. But I know the day is coming that I will be holding our baby in my arms. I am praying for patience to help me get to that day and I am trying to have no expectations about when it might be. God will give us our referral and bring us together at the perfect moment. Tim dreamed the other night that we were going to have a baby girl. I wonder.......