Friends,
I do pray that you all had a marvelous Christmas with your family and that you experienced the blessing of our marvelous Savior.
This morning I read in the paper a story of four young men who saved a family from being consumed in an early morning house fire. They were driving along looking for a snack but everything was closed. On their way back home, they passed by a house that was billowing with smoke. They stopped, banged on the door (to no avail), then threw a chair through the window and climbed in. They rushed upstairs and awakened the inhabitants, resucuing them from certain doom. You can read the full article at www.wset.com/news/stories/1209/690580.html
Interesting, two of the heroes bear the last name of Nauss.
There is a greater hero, one who came into our broken and battered world to rescue us from our sins. His name is Jesus, the One who came on Christmas Day. Responding to His offer of forgiveness is as crucial as answering the call to exit a burning house.
That's enough preaching. When I have an opportunity, I'll upload some Christmas photos for you.
One more tidbit. December 26 is known in some places as Boxing Day. One tradition says that this is the day to recognize those who serve us all year round such as the mail carrier. Do something special for a servant in your life today.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Blizzard of 2009
Many of you are literally snowed in due to a perfect storm, the blizzard of 2009. Weather forcasters state that moisture from both the Gulf of Mexico merged with moisture from the Atlantic which met a cold air, low pressure system from the north, producing beautiful snowfall. We have about 12 inches of snowfall on the ground, reminiscent of snowstorms from long ago. So much for global warming. And think - last fall we gave away our snowblower to a pastoral family that moved north to Pennsylvania. This storm system is so big it stretches from the Carolinas to Maine, affecting DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York and Boston on one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year.
We are so thankful for a warm home, electricity, a full cupboard and refrigerator, and safety for our family. We are saddened to have missed church this morning and the candlelight service this evening. The boys and Amy are thrilled with the snowfall. We will be making snowmen when the snow begins to melt. We expect to be able to get out sometime on Monday.
I have been pondering the Christmas story. Did you know:
1. Jesus Christ and John the Baptist were cousins? (born only six months apart).
2. Jesus appeared at the Temple when he was eight days old.?
3. When he was one month old he was presented to the Lord at the Temple for the redemption
of the first born (i.e. to present him to the Lord)?
4. Simeon prophesied that Jesus would be "a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory
to the Israelites"?
5. We don't know how many Magi there were. The Bible does not indicate a certain number. We
only know that they presented him with gifts of gold, frankinsense and myrrh.
(Frankinsense was often used in temple ceremonies when prayer was offered and mixed into
an anointing oil. The word "Messiah" means "anointed one". Myrrh was a spice used in
burial rites. One might consider that gold was for Jesus' royalty, frankinsense for his priestly
ministry, and myrrh for his sacrificial death on the cross for our sins.
When the storms enter your life, let's be thankful that God has made provision through a great gift - His Son Jesus. Merry Christmas everyone.
We are so thankful for a warm home, electricity, a full cupboard and refrigerator, and safety for our family. We are saddened to have missed church this morning and the candlelight service this evening. The boys and Amy are thrilled with the snowfall. We will be making snowmen when the snow begins to melt. We expect to be able to get out sometime on Monday.
I have been pondering the Christmas story. Did you know:
1. Jesus Christ and John the Baptist were cousins? (born only six months apart).
2. Jesus appeared at the Temple when he was eight days old.?
3. When he was one month old he was presented to the Lord at the Temple for the redemption
of the first born (i.e. to present him to the Lord)?
4. Simeon prophesied that Jesus would be "a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory
to the Israelites"?
5. We don't know how many Magi there were. The Bible does not indicate a certain number. We
only know that they presented him with gifts of gold, frankinsense and myrrh.
(Frankinsense was often used in temple ceremonies when prayer was offered and mixed into
an anointing oil. The word "Messiah" means "anointed one". Myrrh was a spice used in
burial rites. One might consider that gold was for Jesus' royalty, frankinsense for his priestly
ministry, and myrrh for his sacrificial death on the cross for our sins.
When the storms enter your life, let's be thankful that God has made provision through a great gift - His Son Jesus. Merry Christmas everyone.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Christmas is almost here!
Christmas is around the bend! Steven and Samuel are so excited. They wonder how Santa will bring presents into our home since we don't have a chimney. We have enjoyed the Christmas concerts and musicals including the Virginia Christmas Spectacular. As you remember, last year we spent the Christmas season in China. So this is really the first memorable holiday for the two boys. Tonight I took the boys shopping to find a present for mom. I wonder how long they can keep their present a secret?
Alicia and Lorelai is planning to visit our home this Christmas season. Again, this will be the first time she has been with us at Christmastime since 2007. There will be a lot of delicious food to prepare for the holidays. One tradition we enjoy is cooking caramels and banana bread. Fudge is also a wonderful treat during this time of year.
Please pray for Steven. He has a small tumor on his cheek that needs tending. Tomorrow he has a CT scan followed by a doctor visit to discuss the options. On the surface it seems like a simple procedure. However, there are many facial nerves and muscles to contend with. Thankfully it doesn't seem to bother him.
I pray you continue to experience the blessing of the Christ of Christmas!
Alicia and Lorelai is planning to visit our home this Christmas season. Again, this will be the first time she has been with us at Christmastime since 2007. There will be a lot of delicious food to prepare for the holidays. One tradition we enjoy is cooking caramels and banana bread. Fudge is also a wonderful treat during this time of year.
Please pray for Steven. He has a small tumor on his cheek that needs tending. Tomorrow he has a CT scan followed by a doctor visit to discuss the options. On the surface it seems like a simple procedure. However, there are many facial nerves and muscles to contend with. Thankfully it doesn't seem to bother him.
I pray you continue to experience the blessing of the Christ of Christmas!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
A week of celebrations
We are celebrating two thanksgivings this year. It's not that unusual for us to do so since my parents are both from Canada and we have celebrated Canadian Thanksgiving with them in October. However this is a special Thanksgiving year for us as we celebrated early with the visit of Alicia and her daughter Lorelai. (See photos) We will be spending our second Thanksgiving on Thursday with Holly's parents at Smith Mountain Lake.
This season I am thankful that God has allowed me to attend Liberty University and gain new teaching skills. Working toward certification and licensure is not an easy process. Under the new legislation, "No Child Left Behind Act", all school systems need to show that their teachers are "highly qualified". Although this term is not clearly defined, the state of Virginia demonstrates teacher skill through testing. Most teachers need to take the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) or the Praxis 1, AND the Praxis 2. Special educators take the Virginia Reading Assessment exam. Students like myself, (those seeking double certification) must take all three exams. On Monday I took the four hour VCLA test. Unofficial reports show that I scored 97% in the Reading subtest while scoring 85% in the Writing subtest. Of course official scores will be mailed to me. In January I will take the VRA (a much harder test) that examines a student's readiness for special education work.
Samuel celebrated his fifth birthday this week. In addition to a party with his family, Sammy is having fun with his new remote controlled car. We have the perfect basement for such toys. Steven can't wait for March when we celebrate his 7th birthday. He never had a party before. I wonder if anyone ever celebrated his birthday. This will also be the first year Steven celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
The close of 2009 also marks the beginnning of an expensive but necessary readoption process for our two sons. Because Steven's official birthdate is inaccurate (by 2 years), we need to legally change the date and go through a readoption. So we will do it with both boys. This way, they will receive an official US birth certificate (which comes in very handy these days).
May your thanksgiving celebration focus your gratefulness upward as you praise God for his great goodness and grace.
This season I am thankful that God has allowed me to attend Liberty University and gain new teaching skills. Working toward certification and licensure is not an easy process. Under the new legislation, "No Child Left Behind Act", all school systems need to show that their teachers are "highly qualified". Although this term is not clearly defined, the state of Virginia demonstrates teacher skill through testing. Most teachers need to take the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) or the Praxis 1, AND the Praxis 2. Special educators take the Virginia Reading Assessment exam. Students like myself, (those seeking double certification) must take all three exams. On Monday I took the four hour VCLA test. Unofficial reports show that I scored 97% in the Reading subtest while scoring 85% in the Writing subtest. Of course official scores will be mailed to me. In January I will take the VRA (a much harder test) that examines a student's readiness for special education work.
Samuel celebrated his fifth birthday this week. In addition to a party with his family, Sammy is having fun with his new remote controlled car. We have the perfect basement for such toys. Steven can't wait for March when we celebrate his 7th birthday. He never had a party before. I wonder if anyone ever celebrated his birthday. This will also be the first year Steven celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
The close of 2009 also marks the beginnning of an expensive but necessary readoption process for our two sons. Because Steven's official birthdate is inaccurate (by 2 years), we need to legally change the date and go through a readoption. So we will do it with both boys. This way, they will receive an official US birth certificate (which comes in very handy these days).
May your thanksgiving celebration focus your gratefulness upward as you praise God for his great goodness and grace.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Congratulations Amy!
Another milestone was reached in the Nauss household. Amy passed her drivers examination and now has her provisional license! Congratulations to our 18 year old daughter. Notice her new braces! Now pray that she will find a job so she can put gas in the car and save money for her own vehicle.
Samuel turns 5 on Tuesday. Alicia will be here with baby to celebrate it. We'll share pictures on our next blog. Yesterday he told Santa Claus that he wants a kids digital camera. (Consequently, Steven said the same thing!) We went to Sam's school yesterday for a class presentation. They dressed as Indians and sang songs. How cute!
Steven has just been approved by the school system to receive occupational therapy. So they wrote up an addendum for his IEP. Whoever wrote it doesn't know a thing about arthrogryposis and has made both lofty and unrealistic goals for Steven's progress. "By 6/4/2010,Steven will improve bilateral coordination and overal proximal stabilty by 50% in order to maximize performance during functional mobility and school related tasks." This progress is measured by observation. How are they going to measure 50% improvement through observation? "BY 6/4/2010, Steven will improve developmental hand skils by 50% in order ot maximize performance during finre motor and graphomotor tasks."Again, this is measured through observation. If they accomplish this feat, they will have reversed Steven's condition! "By 6/4/2010, Steven will improve graphomotor skills by 75% in order to perform within the classroom setting." Again, if this were to occur, Steven would be miraculously cured. Remember that his condition, although non-progressive, he has contractures in his upper and lower extremities. His joints have bone deformities and he lacks physical muscle tissue. There are reasons why he is unable to clap his hands or turn his palms upwards. He is unable to bend his legs. (There is absence of a patella.) However, we will allow the school to work with him because he can benefit from OT and we're thankful that the school really wants to help Steven develop and grow.
They boys have been riding the horses at the therapeudic riding center and are developing good balance and posture. We'll have to take some pictures. Hopefully in the spring, they will learn to trot and begin to rein. This free program for children with special needs is a real blessing, especially for children suffering from Autism. Please pray that Spirithorse will receive a grant to build an indoor riding ring which is so desperately needed.
Holly still has lettuce, swiss chard and spinach in her garden! It's amazing to have fresh produce so late in the season!
Roger has been working part time, very sporadically as a substitute teacher. It has been a very interesting experience. Some of the kids say that he's the best sub; (it could be they are buttering him up or he's too easy with the kids). One kid said, "I learned more from you in one class session than what the teacher taught in a week! More lard I think.
Enjoy our latest photos. Have a blessed Thanksgiving! "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His mercy endures forever."
Samuel turns 5 on Tuesday. Alicia will be here with baby to celebrate it. We'll share pictures on our next blog. Yesterday he told Santa Claus that he wants a kids digital camera. (Consequently, Steven said the same thing!) We went to Sam's school yesterday for a class presentation. They dressed as Indians and sang songs. How cute!
Steven has just been approved by the school system to receive occupational therapy. So they wrote up an addendum for his IEP. Whoever wrote it doesn't know a thing about arthrogryposis and has made both lofty and unrealistic goals for Steven's progress. "By 6/4/2010,Steven will improve bilateral coordination and overal proximal stabilty by 50% in order to maximize performance during functional mobility and school related tasks." This progress is measured by observation. How are they going to measure 50% improvement through observation? "BY 6/4/2010, Steven will improve developmental hand skils by 50% in order ot maximize performance during finre motor and graphomotor tasks."Again, this is measured through observation. If they accomplish this feat, they will have reversed Steven's condition! "By 6/4/2010, Steven will improve graphomotor skills by 75% in order to perform within the classroom setting." Again, if this were to occur, Steven would be miraculously cured. Remember that his condition, although non-progressive, he has contractures in his upper and lower extremities. His joints have bone deformities and he lacks physical muscle tissue. There are reasons why he is unable to clap his hands or turn his palms upwards. He is unable to bend his legs. (There is absence of a patella.) However, we will allow the school to work with him because he can benefit from OT and we're thankful that the school really wants to help Steven develop and grow.
They boys have been riding the horses at the therapeudic riding center and are developing good balance and posture. We'll have to take some pictures. Hopefully in the spring, they will learn to trot and begin to rein. This free program for children with special needs is a real blessing, especially for children suffering from Autism. Please pray that Spirithorse will receive a grant to build an indoor riding ring which is so desperately needed.
Holly still has lettuce, swiss chard and spinach in her garden! It's amazing to have fresh produce so late in the season!
Roger has been working part time, very sporadically as a substitute teacher. It has been a very interesting experience. Some of the kids say that he's the best sub; (it could be they are buttering him up or he's too easy with the kids). One kid said, "I learned more from you in one class session than what the teacher taught in a week! More lard I think.
Enjoy our latest photos. Have a blessed Thanksgiving! "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His mercy endures forever."
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Shriner's Checkup
Shriner's Hospital for Children is perhaps the most awesome hospital dedicated for the healing of children with various orthopedic issues. Both Steven and Samuel were seen by the specialists this time.
Steven's visit revealed improvement with his range of motion in his upper extremities. We attribute this to allowing him to be a kid and play outdoors. There has not been any signficant change with his lower limbs. The occupational therapists feel that Steven is doing very well. As far as future prognosis, the doctors believe Steven would benefit from genetic tests to determine his type of arthrogryposis. Then they may be able to plot a more specific plan of action as Steven grows and develops. If his knees bend inward too much, they can insert plates to straighten out his limbs and improve his gait. This does not mean that his knees will bend. In fact, they feel if they perform surgery to release his lower limbs, there may be detrimental results. Steven begins occupational therapy in school very soon. They will help him to perform basic functions of daily life such as button, tie, snap etc... .
Samuel also visited with the doctor. X-rays showed that Samuel has an elbow (this is good), but his radial is detached (not unusual for his condition). They are impressed with Samuel's ability to adapt. He met with a pediatric orthopedist who construct prosthetic devices for children. He believes that Samuel would not benefit from the artificial limbs. However, if Samuel wanted to play a musical instrument, Shriners will construct a special limb to accommodate the instrument. He told us of a man who built a saxophone that could be played with one hand.
On a side note, we're doing our best to keep dry as the hurricane Ida (now a tropical storm) moves up the coast, dropping several inches of rain in its wake. Thank the Lord we are perched on a hilltop and have received very little water in our basement.
Visit our site soon for other family news.
Steven's visit revealed improvement with his range of motion in his upper extremities. We attribute this to allowing him to be a kid and play outdoors. There has not been any signficant change with his lower limbs. The occupational therapists feel that Steven is doing very well. As far as future prognosis, the doctors believe Steven would benefit from genetic tests to determine his type of arthrogryposis. Then they may be able to plot a more specific plan of action as Steven grows and develops. If his knees bend inward too much, they can insert plates to straighten out his limbs and improve his gait. This does not mean that his knees will bend. In fact, they feel if they perform surgery to release his lower limbs, there may be detrimental results. Steven begins occupational therapy in school very soon. They will help him to perform basic functions of daily life such as button, tie, snap etc... .
Samuel also visited with the doctor. X-rays showed that Samuel has an elbow (this is good), but his radial is detached (not unusual for his condition). They are impressed with Samuel's ability to adapt. He met with a pediatric orthopedist who construct prosthetic devices for children. He believes that Samuel would not benefit from the artificial limbs. However, if Samuel wanted to play a musical instrument, Shriners will construct a special limb to accommodate the instrument. He told us of a man who built a saxophone that could be played with one hand.
On a side note, we're doing our best to keep dry as the hurricane Ida (now a tropical storm) moves up the coast, dropping several inches of rain in its wake. Thank the Lord we are perched on a hilltop and have received very little water in our basement.
Visit our site soon for other family news.
Friday, October 9, 2009
They Just Don't Quit!
Here we are well into October and we still have a garden! For those living in this area, that's nothing special but for those who lived most of their lives in the North, this is a miracle! Our pepper plants are still putting out flowers and produce. We have lettuce and peas growing. They just don't quit!
In the Bible we are reminded that we will bear a harvest if we don't give up. That's great encouragement for those of us who are weary from doing good. Keep on fighting the good fight of the faith.
There are many things happening around the homestead these days. Let me share a few things with you.
1. We're down to the final week of classes - major papers and projects need to be submitted. this is all in preparation for the next round of classes. It's never too late to go back to school.
2. The boys are enjoying their school experience. Samuel's class visited an apple orchard and met "Danny Appleseed", Johnny's brother. He looks pretty good for his age! Steven will soon be visiting a pumpkin patch! Dad and mom enjoy going with the kids on these excursions.
3. Roger joined the choir. They are preparing to produce a soundtrack for Lari Goss, premier composer of choir music. It's a lot of work; however it's a great way to meet people.
4. Holly has been working with ladies at MOPS (Mothers of preschoolers).
5 Amy is completing her classes and plans to take two more after that. She has officially been accepted at Liberty.
6. Holly's parents are well. They keep themselves busy. Part of their ministry involves taking care of an elderly relative.
Enjoy the following pictures!
In the Bible we are reminded that we will bear a harvest if we don't give up. That's great encouragement for those of us who are weary from doing good. Keep on fighting the good fight of the faith.
There are many things happening around the homestead these days. Let me share a few things with you.
1. We're down to the final week of classes - major papers and projects need to be submitted. this is all in preparation for the next round of classes. It's never too late to go back to school.
2. The boys are enjoying their school experience. Samuel's class visited an apple orchard and met "Danny Appleseed", Johnny's brother. He looks pretty good for his age! Steven will soon be visiting a pumpkin patch! Dad and mom enjoy going with the kids on these excursions.
3. Roger joined the choir. They are preparing to produce a soundtrack for Lari Goss, premier composer of choir music. It's a lot of work; however it's a great way to meet people.
4. Holly has been working with ladies at MOPS (Mothers of preschoolers).
5 Amy is completing her classes and plans to take two more after that. She has officially been accepted at Liberty.
6. Holly's parents are well. They keep themselves busy. Part of their ministry involves taking care of an elderly relative.
Enjoy the following pictures!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Labor Day
We're so thankful for those who work hard among us to make our country strong. And we're grateful for those who add strength to the family unit.
Today we focused our appreciation on our parents. Holly's parents spent the afternoon with us: enjoying lunch, playing games, reading to the kids = all the wonderful things that grandparents do! They have been such a blessing in our lives.
Please take a moment to say "Thank you" to your parents for their hard work and sacrifice made on your behalf. They have strived to guide you to truth and stear you away from falsehood.
The boys have been enjoying school and when they're not in school they say life around here is "boring". Of course nothing is boring when there are bugs around. Presently they are on a search to find, collect and observe the biggest and strangest insect in the garden. Believe me, no rock is left unturned.
This has been an exhausting week for us as we have been fighting off a cold virus. Meanwhile we have also been fighting to keep ahead of the yardwork. This has been the wettest season in a long time. We can count on a rain shower at least once every two or three days.
For those who have been following the economic indicators, August posted the worst job performance in 24 years with unemployment at a record high of 9.6%. We can testify to this. Simply examine the classified section of the newspaper and one will see very few jobs posted. Employers expect to receive up to 100 applicants for every job opening. We need not fear because God takes care of His own.
How is the Lord taking care of your needs? How is He 'laboring' on your behalf. Perhaps now is a good time to lift up a word of thanks to the Lord and say, Happy Labor Day! Thank you for all you've done.
Today we focused our appreciation on our parents. Holly's parents spent the afternoon with us: enjoying lunch, playing games, reading to the kids = all the wonderful things that grandparents do! They have been such a blessing in our lives.
Please take a moment to say "Thank you" to your parents for their hard work and sacrifice made on your behalf. They have strived to guide you to truth and stear you away from falsehood.
The boys have been enjoying school and when they're not in school they say life around here is "boring". Of course nothing is boring when there are bugs around. Presently they are on a search to find, collect and observe the biggest and strangest insect in the garden. Believe me, no rock is left unturned.
This has been an exhausting week for us as we have been fighting off a cold virus. Meanwhile we have also been fighting to keep ahead of the yardwork. This has been the wettest season in a long time. We can count on a rain shower at least once every two or three days.
For those who have been following the economic indicators, August posted the worst job performance in 24 years with unemployment at a record high of 9.6%. We can testify to this. Simply examine the classified section of the newspaper and one will see very few jobs posted. Employers expect to receive up to 100 applicants for every job opening. We need not fear because God takes care of His own.
How is the Lord taking care of your needs? How is He 'laboring' on your behalf. Perhaps now is a good time to lift up a word of thanks to the Lord and say, Happy Labor Day! Thank you for all you've done.
Monday, August 24, 2009
CHARACTER EDUCATION
"School days, school days, dear ole golden rule days." This old song was despised by many school children of yesteryear for it reminded them that they were about to rejoin the thousands of kids for classes. In our permissive society rules, values, expectations, and morals are sorely lacking. The present economic crisis was started by the lack of morality and the prevalence of greed in the business world. As a result, character education is a major focus in schools: traits like honesty, trustworthiness, integrity, kindness, respect. It's even more shocking that these traits are lacking in the church! Church splits and coups are testimony to the need for Christians to follow Jesus in lifestyle as well as speech. Let all who claim to be believers live by the character qualities of Galatians 5:22-23 and 1 Corinthians 13. Which character quality do you need to work on?
Steven and Samuel began school for the first time today. Steven is in kindergarten while Samuel is in preschool class. They like their teacher and look forward to the bus ride. Amy (this year a Senior) has resumed her classes, taking courses at Liberty University.
Roger is also back to school with three classes this fall. He really did not have a break this summer. He took two intensive classes: one in June and one in July. In August he self-designed a course in economics and took a CLEP exam that earned him three credits, completing his teacher competencies.
Actually The Nauss' did enjoy a break as he and Holly celebrated their 25th anniversary! They stayed local as Amy watched the kids. See their 25th anniversary picture!
We'll soon upload some school photos soon.
Steven and Samuel began school for the first time today. Steven is in kindergarten while Samuel is in preschool class. They like their teacher and look forward to the bus ride. Amy (this year a Senior) has resumed her classes, taking courses at Liberty University.
Roger is also back to school with three classes this fall. He really did not have a break this summer. He took two intensive classes: one in June and one in July. In August he self-designed a course in economics and took a CLEP exam that earned him three credits, completing his teacher competencies.
Actually The Nauss' did enjoy a break as he and Holly celebrated their 25th anniversary! They stayed local as Amy watched the kids. See their 25th anniversary picture!
We'll soon upload some school photos soon.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
tornado in town
On Friday our town was hit with an F1 tornado with winds topping at 125 mph. Holly witnessed the event as rain whipped horizontally and then the sky opened up with apocalyptical size hailstones! Thank the Lord there was very little damage to the storm. Even our tomato plants were spared. Apparently storms of this magnitude are rare in Central Virginia though it's not unusual for one to experience a heavy thunderstorm. One woman who lives in Tornado Alley states that observant people can tell when a tornado is imminent. If the wind is whipping in one direction and abruptly reverses direction, followed by hail, then head for the basement.
Jesus encourages us all to be weather watchers: to observe and discern the signs of the times. Only then can a Christian truly be ready for whatever is coming.
Jesus encourages us all to be weather watchers: to observe and discern the signs of the times. Only then can a Christian truly be ready for whatever is coming.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Anniversary approaching
We are soon reaching a milestone in our family - and a rarity these days: twenty-five years of marriage. Just this morning we were talking about life's changes. When we were planning our honeymoon, we thought about going to the Pocono's like other newlyweds. Instead we traveled to Nova Scotia, rented a cabin and visited family. August was a very beautiful time to experience the beauty of Canada's ocean playground. Two years ago we thought we were going to have a big celebration, invite all of our friends to a catered, sit down dinner with music. Now we are a family of six (one in Philly), living in the heart of Virginia, going back to school and not having full-time employment.
Please don't misunderstand us; we're not complaining. As we review our life's journey, taking the narrow road (the road less traveled), there are unexpected twists and turns, switchbacks and obstacles along the way. Life is a series of adjustments - dare we say disappointments? If one adjusts to God's directives disappointments become Hisapointments. Certainly we never expected this path to lead us to China - not one but twice! On the first trip we had our annivesary there! We would have missed the adventure if we were not keeping our face forward.
So, where do we travel for our anniversary? This debate continues. We'll let you know how things turn out . But one thing is certain: we don't want to miss what is just around the corner. It's sure to be an adventure.
Please don't misunderstand us; we're not complaining. As we review our life's journey, taking the narrow road (the road less traveled), there are unexpected twists and turns, switchbacks and obstacles along the way. Life is a series of adjustments - dare we say disappointments? If one adjusts to God's directives disappointments become Hisapointments. Certainly we never expected this path to lead us to China - not one but twice! On the first trip we had our annivesary there! We would have missed the adventure if we were not keeping our face forward.
So, where do we travel for our anniversary? This debate continues. We'll let you know how things turn out . But one thing is certain: we don't want to miss what is just around the corner. It's sure to be an adventure.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Happy Fourth of July
On this glorious independence day celebration, we remember the framers of our constitution who dared to stand against tyranny and injustice in order to secure for us the liberties which we now enjoy. Our freedom was won at great cost. Let's use that freedom to bring truth and integrity to America.
Today our family traveled to Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest - his summer retreat home from Montecello where we enjoyed a festive celebration that included a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. This is Steven's first July 4th as an American Citizen. Those who travel outside our country truly realize that we live in a very special country.
Last week we spent a long weekend at Myrtle Beach. with Holly's parents and her brother's family from Germany. This was the first time the boys actually played at the ocean. They enjoyed searching for seashells, surfing the waves and building sand castles. They even had a chance to fly kites!
Amy is now experiencing freedom as she completed her courses at Liberty for the year. She signs up for new courses at the end of August (with Dad). Roger still has one course to complete in July before he can relax for the remainder of the summer.
Holly's garden is a virtual jungle. We have all enjoyed the fresh garden beans, lettuce, squash, cucumbers and even our first tomato! There's much more to come!
We wish you all God's peace on this special day.
Today our family traveled to Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest - his summer retreat home from Montecello where we enjoyed a festive celebration that included a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. This is Steven's first July 4th as an American Citizen. Those who travel outside our country truly realize that we live in a very special country.
Last week we spent a long weekend at Myrtle Beach. with Holly's parents and her brother's family from Germany. This was the first time the boys actually played at the ocean. They enjoyed searching for seashells, surfing the waves and building sand castles. They even had a chance to fly kites!
Amy is now experiencing freedom as she completed her courses at Liberty for the year. She signs up for new courses at the end of August (with Dad). Roger still has one course to complete in July before he can relax for the remainder of the summer.
Holly's garden is a virtual jungle. We have all enjoyed the fresh garden beans, lettuce, squash, cucumbers and even our first tomato! There's much more to come!
We wish you all God's peace on this special day.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
All Things New
Scripture says, "If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation. The old things are gone; new things are come" (2 Cor. 5:17). This is true of the spiritual life. But it's also true of those experiencing adoption. It's because of Jesus Christ that we began this venture of adoption so that these little ones can experience a new life. We pray one day they will step into new life in Christ as well.
Speaking of new things, here is a list of ten "firsts" that Steven and Samuel have been experiencing!
1. You should have seen their faces when they boarded Pappy's speedboat and raced across the waters of Smith Mountain Lake!
2. They both went fishing for the first time, catching bluegill. Steven was pretty afraid of the fish. He never touched a live one before. On one occasion a large carp took his bait and we reeled him in. We had to explain why we couldn't keep the fish. No one in America eats carp.
3. New teeth? Within a few short weeks, Steven lost both of his lower middle teeth.
4. They both saw their first rainbow on Memorial Day too. It spread from one end of the sky to another. We shared the meaning of the rainbow to them. (Read the story of Noah)
5. Samuel can now swing himself on the swingset without needing a push. They are growing fast!
6. The boys are now able to enjoy church classes without the parents present.
7. Recently the boys attended their first 4H horse show. In fact one lovely lady offered to give them a ride on a calm 28 year old mare.
8. In preparation for cowboy duds, they learned how to do snaps on their clothes. That's a given for most children but when you have boys with physical issues, this is a milestone.
9. Steven and Samuel have been watching the garden grow and tasting fresh snow peas, lettuce and spinach. By the end of the month we will have beans and tomatoes.
10. Steven is becoming acclimated to the swimming pool. Samuel is a pro when it comes to the pool but the only pools in China are for tourists at the fancy hotels.
Diana and Rich visited us for a couple of days last week. they brought lots of old photoes and we stayed up late into the night sharing memories.
Speaking of new things, here is a list of ten "firsts" that Steven and Samuel have been experiencing!
1. You should have seen their faces when they boarded Pappy's speedboat and raced across the waters of Smith Mountain Lake!
2. They both went fishing for the first time, catching bluegill. Steven was pretty afraid of the fish. He never touched a live one before. On one occasion a large carp took his bait and we reeled him in. We had to explain why we couldn't keep the fish. No one in America eats carp.
3. New teeth? Within a few short weeks, Steven lost both of his lower middle teeth.
4. They both saw their first rainbow on Memorial Day too. It spread from one end of the sky to another. We shared the meaning of the rainbow to them. (Read the story of Noah)
5. Samuel can now swing himself on the swingset without needing a push. They are growing fast!
6. The boys are now able to enjoy church classes without the parents present.
7. Recently the boys attended their first 4H horse show. In fact one lovely lady offered to give them a ride on a calm 28 year old mare.
8. In preparation for cowboy duds, they learned how to do snaps on their clothes. That's a given for most children but when you have boys with physical issues, this is a milestone.
9. Steven and Samuel have been watching the garden grow and tasting fresh snow peas, lettuce and spinach. By the end of the month we will have beans and tomatoes.
10. Steven is becoming acclimated to the swimming pool. Samuel is a pro when it comes to the pool but the only pools in China are for tourists at the fancy hotels.
Diana and Rich visited us for a couple of days last week. they brought lots of old photoes and we stayed up late into the night sharing memories.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Wet and Wild!
Though it is not summer yet, we have been experiencing some pretty wet and wild weather in the Mid Atlantic. It has rained or stormed nearly every day. The lakes are full and the garden is green and happy. Unfortunately this weather is also perfect for growing a healthy family of ticks. The boys both have had their share of these parasitic creatures crawling on their bodies. So, included in their daily routines is "inspection time". You would be surprised where we have been finding these creepy crawlies!
The Lord has also been showering blessings up on us. As we count our blessings, I ask you to make a list of your own blessings.
1. We are blessed to have primary care physicians who are Christians and practice at the
University. We all had physical exams for the first time in two years.
2. Grades were posted and Roger aced his classes. He is taking two intensive classes right now.
3. Today the Miller-Motte College is hosting a fundraiser for Steven. We will show up to support
the project this afternoon.
4. Shriner's Hospital is very pleased with Steven's progress, particular his range of motion. He
has been officially diagnosed with Arthrogryposis. We have seen progress since he came to live
with us and we believe he will continue to show improvement and gain functional strength in
his upper limbs. Our O.T. has suggested we include exercises that are "fun". So we had a
pillow fight last night. Having a brother (Samuel) has been very good for Steven's physical development
5. Amy is pondering what the Lord would have her do this summer. She is considering work at
a Christian camp. She is also taking three college classes this summer! I can see the Lord
grooming her to become a lovely caring woman.
6. The blessing of having a lovely wife and life partner - Holly works hard to make our house a
home. And she strives to provide the best for our little family - even the pets. This week we
rented an edger and buried wire to create an underground pet fence. It's enjoyable to work on
a project together. We are blessed to be living close to Holly's parents. Roger lost his father
last May and it was nice to have another set of parents to be with at this time of year.
7. The knowledge that "My God shall provide all your needs according to His riches in glory".
Even though we do not yet have income, we are debt free and have food in the cupboard.
When you become discouraged, count your blessings and share them with someone today
The Lord has also been showering blessings up on us. As we count our blessings, I ask you to make a list of your own blessings.
1. We are blessed to have primary care physicians who are Christians and practice at the
University. We all had physical exams for the first time in two years.
2. Grades were posted and Roger aced his classes. He is taking two intensive classes right now.
3. Today the Miller-Motte College is hosting a fundraiser for Steven. We will show up to support
the project this afternoon.
4. Shriner's Hospital is very pleased with Steven's progress, particular his range of motion. He
has been officially diagnosed with Arthrogryposis. We have seen progress since he came to live
with us and we believe he will continue to show improvement and gain functional strength in
his upper limbs. Our O.T. has suggested we include exercises that are "fun". So we had a
pillow fight last night. Having a brother (Samuel) has been very good for Steven's physical development
5. Amy is pondering what the Lord would have her do this summer. She is considering work at
a Christian camp. She is also taking three college classes this summer! I can see the Lord
grooming her to become a lovely caring woman.
6. The blessing of having a lovely wife and life partner - Holly works hard to make our house a
home. And she strives to provide the best for our little family - even the pets. This week we
rented an edger and buried wire to create an underground pet fence. It's enjoyable to work on
a project together. We are blessed to be living close to Holly's parents. Roger lost his father
last May and it was nice to have another set of parents to be with at this time of year.
7. The knowledge that "My God shall provide all your needs according to His riches in glory".
Even though we do not yet have income, we are debt free and have food in the cupboard.
When you become discouraged, count your blessings and share them with someone today
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
A new family member
Holly and I would like to introduce you to our newest family member, Lorelai, born to Alicia on April 17 She entered this world as a 7.3 pound little bundle. Mommy and baby are well.
Classes are rapidly coming to a close for this semester but two other classes are about to start for Roger - one class on classroom behavioral management and another class on philosophy of education. Amy also finishes up one college class and immediately takes three other classes. She is also exploring the possibilility of volunteering at a Christian camp this summer.
On May 7-8 we travel to Greenville, S.C. with the boys for an appointment with the orthopedic department of Shriners Hospital. Lord willing, they should give us both an official diagnosis and prognosis of Steven's condition. Once we have this information we will be able to figure out the best way to meet his needs.
Our summer plans are uncertain but there may be a trip to New York in the future. Of course there will be multiple trips to Smith Mountain Lake where we hope to do a lot of kayaking. We would love to explore some wonderful local rivers right in our neighborhood.
Holly's garden looks beautiful! Green and growing! Though we have had an abundance of rain this week, the garden plot is draining well, thank the Lord.
Jobs are still pretty elusive but God knows best and will take care of our needs.
We hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day!
Classes are rapidly coming to a close for this semester but two other classes are about to start for Roger - one class on classroom behavioral management and another class on philosophy of education. Amy also finishes up one college class and immediately takes three other classes. She is also exploring the possibilility of volunteering at a Christian camp this summer.
On May 7-8 we travel to Greenville, S.C. with the boys for an appointment with the orthopedic department of Shriners Hospital. Lord willing, they should give us both an official diagnosis and prognosis of Steven's condition. Once we have this information we will be able to figure out the best way to meet his needs.
Our summer plans are uncertain but there may be a trip to New York in the future. Of course there will be multiple trips to Smith Mountain Lake where we hope to do a lot of kayaking. We would love to explore some wonderful local rivers right in our neighborhood.
Holly's garden looks beautiful! Green and growing! Though we have had an abundance of rain this week, the garden plot is draining well, thank the Lord.
Jobs are still pretty elusive but God knows best and will take care of our needs.
We hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Gardening in April
Hi y'all!
Gardening in Virginia has been such a treat for Holly. She has done this month what most farmers in Maine wish they could do, plant in April. Because of a generous garden season, Holly planted peas on St. Patrick's Day along with other cold crops, and today planted tomatoes and peppers. For the first time she is experimenting with a longer growing tomato plant which should stagger her harvest. Though the garden is not as big as her New Jersey plantation, this one is close to the house and will be much easier to tend.
We also installed the boy's swingset - Roger insisted on purchasing new lag screws for safety reasons. Slowly our house is looking like a home. With more things for the kids to do around the house, we hope that sibling rivalry and bickering will reduce. (wishful thinking).
Alicia informed us this week that she had her baby - a little 7 pound, 3 ounce girl named Lorelai. Both mother and daughter survived the ordeal well.
Amy is now part of a national Migraine study to determine the effectiveness of a migraine relief medication that combines the use of iboprophen and imatrex. We'll let you know how she does in the process. Additionally, she is taking an online course through Liberty and plans to take two other courses in the summer months. Her goal is to have most of her core courses completed by the time she graduates from high school.
We enjoy the times we spend with Holly's parents. They live less than an hour away. We'll enjoy the closeness to the lake where we can both swim, fish and kayak. However there are some very nice boat launches right near us in Altavista.
Well, for those who long to plant their gardens but can't, take courage; spring is here and your turn will come. Until then, bloom where you're planted.
Gardening in Virginia has been such a treat for Holly. She has done this month what most farmers in Maine wish they could do, plant in April. Because of a generous garden season, Holly planted peas on St. Patrick's Day along with other cold crops, and today planted tomatoes and peppers. For the first time she is experimenting with a longer growing tomato plant which should stagger her harvest. Though the garden is not as big as her New Jersey plantation, this one is close to the house and will be much easier to tend.
We also installed the boy's swingset - Roger insisted on purchasing new lag screws for safety reasons. Slowly our house is looking like a home. With more things for the kids to do around the house, we hope that sibling rivalry and bickering will reduce. (wishful thinking).
Alicia informed us this week that she had her baby - a little 7 pound, 3 ounce girl named Lorelai. Both mother and daughter survived the ordeal well.
Amy is now part of a national Migraine study to determine the effectiveness of a migraine relief medication that combines the use of iboprophen and imatrex. We'll let you know how she does in the process. Additionally, she is taking an online course through Liberty and plans to take two other courses in the summer months. Her goal is to have most of her core courses completed by the time she graduates from high school.
We enjoy the times we spend with Holly's parents. They live less than an hour away. We'll enjoy the closeness to the lake where we can both swim, fish and kayak. However there are some very nice boat launches right near us in Altavista.
Well, for those who long to plant their gardens but can't, take courage; spring is here and your turn will come. Until then, bloom where you're planted.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Resurrection Day!
Happy Resurrecton Day! As I read the story of Christ's resurrection, I am continually encouraged by the words of Jesus to Thomas. "Because you have seen me, you have believed; Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29 NIV). Today is a good day to declare what Thomas said to Jesus, "My Lord and my God!" (v.28).
April is a month that holds many promises.
1. The promise of spring - For those who live in the North, spring will come, eventually. Winter cannot keep its grip forever. As I look out my living room window I see a large field of green grass. Yesterday I mowed our hilly lawn with our small push mower. Ahh, the smell of freshly cut grass and owww, the exercising of previously unused muscles! We have enjoyed the colorful flowering trees that break forth in bloom this time of year.
2. The joy of Easter traditions. - In this area, there are many Easter egg hunts. On Friday the boys participated in one such tradition for children and adults with intellectual and physical challenges. It is put on by the town of Altavista. Everyone was so kind and helpful. The boys had their pictures taken by the local paper and will be featured in Wednesdays edition. On Saturday the kids went to two other egg hunts, one at a Wesleyan Church and the other at an African American Baptist Church. Both were wonderful and diverse experiences.
3. The privilege of glorifying Christ - This past week we were interviewed by Channel 7 TV News (based in Roanoke). They have a Lynchburg branch. A young man came with his TV camera to get a story about our children's adoption and their medical needs. We purposed in our hearts to take this platform to lift up Christ. He receives all the glory for what He has done in our family. We made it very clear that God has orchestrated the adoption, raised the funds, provided the grants and has brought people into our family to assist with the children's needs. We mentioned the blessings of our church and those helping to raise funds for Steven's plastic surgery at Miller-Motte Technical College. The TV interview will be shown on Monday's 5:00 PM News. The newsman said they show their human interest stories at 5 and at the 6 PM news they show the violence and mayhem.
4. The opportunity for continuing education - This has been a month of interviewing by yours truly. I conducted a 12 hour field observation and interview experience at The Rivermont School, a day treatment facility for children with behavioral issues that are unable to cope in the public school systems. I have been conducting interviews with principals about the advantages of Year Round Schooling vs. traditional schooling. And I have been involved in an action research project that will compare the efficacy of Online education vs. traditional residential education. Yes, it has been a busy month! Amy too is now taking a college class online through Liberty and hopes to take several summer classes.
5. Teaching Sunday School - Yes, there has even been an opportunity to fill in for a teacher who has been away. Got to stay in the Word you know!
April is a month that holds many promises.
1. The promise of spring - For those who live in the North, spring will come, eventually. Winter cannot keep its grip forever. As I look out my living room window I see a large field of green grass. Yesterday I mowed our hilly lawn with our small push mower. Ahh, the smell of freshly cut grass and owww, the exercising of previously unused muscles! We have enjoyed the colorful flowering trees that break forth in bloom this time of year.
2. The joy of Easter traditions. - In this area, there are many Easter egg hunts. On Friday the boys participated in one such tradition for children and adults with intellectual and physical challenges. It is put on by the town of Altavista. Everyone was so kind and helpful. The boys had their pictures taken by the local paper and will be featured in Wednesdays edition. On Saturday the kids went to two other egg hunts, one at a Wesleyan Church and the other at an African American Baptist Church. Both were wonderful and diverse experiences.
3. The privilege of glorifying Christ - This past week we were interviewed by Channel 7 TV News (based in Roanoke). They have a Lynchburg branch. A young man came with his TV camera to get a story about our children's adoption and their medical needs. We purposed in our hearts to take this platform to lift up Christ. He receives all the glory for what He has done in our family. We made it very clear that God has orchestrated the adoption, raised the funds, provided the grants and has brought people into our family to assist with the children's needs. We mentioned the blessings of our church and those helping to raise funds for Steven's plastic surgery at Miller-Motte Technical College. The TV interview will be shown on Monday's 5:00 PM News. The newsman said they show their human interest stories at 5 and at the 6 PM news they show the violence and mayhem.
4. The opportunity for continuing education - This has been a month of interviewing by yours truly. I conducted a 12 hour field observation and interview experience at The Rivermont School, a day treatment facility for children with behavioral issues that are unable to cope in the public school systems. I have been conducting interviews with principals about the advantages of Year Round Schooling vs. traditional schooling. And I have been involved in an action research project that will compare the efficacy of Online education vs. traditional residential education. Yes, it has been a busy month! Amy too is now taking a college class online through Liberty and hopes to take several summer classes.
5. Teaching Sunday School - Yes, there has even been an opportunity to fill in for a teacher who has been away. Got to stay in the Word you know!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Steven update
Holly posting! Wow, my first blog entry. We have been home with Steven for less than 3 months. Steven and Samuel's relationship has changed for the better. They are now more friends than opponents. At first, both played separately but in the same space (parallel play). They fought much of the time. Now they can work together to build lego towers.
Steven has his "official" birthday at the end of the month. He entered the orphanage 4 years ago this month. They assigned him a birthday that supposed he was turning 4. Medical staff and our dentist here disagree. He was probably 1 1/2 - 2 1/2. At the end of the year when we have the 1-year report done and go through the legal process to get a US birth certificate, we will also have his birth date adjusted. For now, we will keep this month's 8yr old "birthday" low-key.
School Time: The Nauss preschool is open every day and the boys practice coloring, cutting, pasting, painting, reviewing the alphabet, counting, sizes, colors, shapes, etc. We play racing, matching, bingo and flashcard games. We watch Clifford, Dora, LeapFrog, Barney and other preschool videos. Steven is a bright boy! He now knows in English: colors, shapes, sizes, genders, opposites, all uppercase letters and their sounds. He speaks 3-5 word sentences like, "Steven no like that." and "Sammy hit Steven!". He does not yet use pronouns (an indication of schol readiness) but it will come. On clear days we play outside or go to a playground nearby.
Food: At first, Steven ate whatever we put in front of him. Now he is showing preferences. He loves all fruit and most veggies. Meats? sometimes. For breakfast, eggs are the hands-down favorite. Most mornings I make the boys a hot meal of eggs (scrambled, fried, microwaved, omolet), french toast, pancakes, oatmeal or their favorite sauteed onions and carrots with eggs and leftover rice mixed in.
Hippothrapy: No, we are not counseling hippos! There is a therapeutic horseback riding facility opening in our area and all services provided to disabled children will be free!! We went to an open house (in the rain) and the boys were thrilled to visit a farm and see and feed animals. There are medical forms to fill out, but we hope to have the boys start working the horses by the summer.
AWANA, Church, Story Hour: We take the boys to Sunday School, Children's Church, midweek awana (they are in the Cubbies class), and the local library's story hour. I stay with them for all sessions. Adoption therapists recommed that one parent be with the newly-adopted child 24/7 for the first year or so to help with the bonding and attachment. In early January, I had two velcro-kids on my legs. Then they began to venture a few feet away. During story times Steven still prefers to be on my lap. I think it is because he does not understand the words being spoken. I thought Sam was ready to have me leave the room, but when I left for two minutes, he had a crying meltdown. Ahhh, adopted kiddos and their attachment/abandonment issues...
Steven has his "official" birthday at the end of the month. He entered the orphanage 4 years ago this month. They assigned him a birthday that supposed he was turning 4. Medical staff and our dentist here disagree. He was probably 1 1/2 - 2 1/2. At the end of the year when we have the 1-year report done and go through the legal process to get a US birth certificate, we will also have his birth date adjusted. For now, we will keep this month's 8yr old "birthday" low-key.
School Time: The Nauss preschool is open every day and the boys practice coloring, cutting, pasting, painting, reviewing the alphabet, counting, sizes, colors, shapes, etc. We play racing, matching, bingo and flashcard games. We watch Clifford, Dora, LeapFrog, Barney and other preschool videos. Steven is a bright boy! He now knows in English: colors, shapes, sizes, genders, opposites, all uppercase letters and their sounds. He speaks 3-5 word sentences like, "Steven no like that." and "Sammy hit Steven!". He does not yet use pronouns (an indication of schol readiness) but it will come. On clear days we play outside or go to a playground nearby.
Food: At first, Steven ate whatever we put in front of him. Now he is showing preferences. He loves all fruit and most veggies. Meats? sometimes. For breakfast, eggs are the hands-down favorite. Most mornings I make the boys a hot meal of eggs (scrambled, fried, microwaved, omolet), french toast, pancakes, oatmeal or their favorite sauteed onions and carrots with eggs and leftover rice mixed in.
Hippothrapy: No, we are not counseling hippos! There is a therapeutic horseback riding facility opening in our area and all services provided to disabled children will be free!! We went to an open house (in the rain) and the boys were thrilled to visit a farm and see and feed animals. There are medical forms to fill out, but we hope to have the boys start working the horses by the summer.
AWANA, Church, Story Hour: We take the boys to Sunday School, Children's Church, midweek awana (they are in the Cubbies class), and the local library's story hour. I stay with them for all sessions. Adoption therapists recommed that one parent be with the newly-adopted child 24/7 for the first year or so to help with the bonding and attachment. In early January, I had two velcro-kids on my legs. Then they began to venture a few feet away. During story times Steven still prefers to be on my lap. I think it is because he does not understand the words being spoken. I thought Sam was ready to have me leave the room, but when I left for two minutes, he had a crying meltdown. Ahhh, adopted kiddos and their attachment/abandonment issues...
Monday, March 2, 2009
Let it Snow!
This morning we woke up to eight inches of freshly fallen snow - a storm that blanketed the Northeast from Alabama to Maine. I actually started up my snowblower, something I had not done at all in New Jersey. The kids were fascinated as they made snow angels. Holly and constructed our own snowman while Amy had a snowfight with the boys and a neighbor. Folks up north call this kind of snow "poor man's fertilizer". This particular storm began on Sunday March 1 with rain, ice and sleet, making travel quite hazardous. We didn't even try to go to church. The weather condition worsened throughout the day. Holly's parents lost power at their home on Smith Mountain Lake, only an hour away.
Time for hot chocolate! Go make a memory!
Time for hot chocolate! Go make a memory!
Friday, February 27, 2009
You know the drill...
Today was dentist day. Steven visited the dentist for the first time in his young life. He has several cavities but none of them severe. The destist looked carefully at Steven's teeth and confirmed our suspicians that he cannot be turning 8 but is realistically about 6 years of age. Emotionally and developmentally he is more Sam's age. People we meet think that Samuel is the older child. Sam's certainly more outgoing.
Roger also visited the dentist and needs his upper wisdom teeth removed. One of the teeth had absessed so was placed on an antibiotic.
Holly ordered her vegetable seeds, has plotted out the garden, and is preparing the beds.
The kids really enjoy Leap Frog DVD "Learning Alphabets" and continually practice the letter sounds.
Keep in touch!
Roger also visited the dentist and needs his upper wisdom teeth removed. One of the teeth had absessed so was placed on an antibiotic.
Holly ordered her vegetable seeds, has plotted out the garden, and is preparing the beds.
The kids really enjoy Leap Frog DVD "Learning Alphabets" and continually practice the letter sounds.
Keep in touch!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
The Lord Giveth and...
... the IRS taketh away. I hate tax season. I used to enjoy it becasue when we owned our home as a pastor, we received enough deductions that reduced our income to where we received rebates. No longer. Living in a New Jersey parsonage has literally cost us thousands of dollars in tax breaks. And now we're paying for it. I'm working on our taxes now and it seems that barring any other deductions we will owe another 4,000 in taxes to Uncle Sam. Hold your breath however. We will be able to apply the child adoption tax credit but it may not help us very much. We'll see. The one thing we know for certain. If the IRS takes away, we believe God will compensate because no one can out give the Lord.
If you wish to view our adoption trip in 2008, you may still access those records by clicking the "archive" button or the "2008 button" on the right hand column of the blog.
Here in the south, locals claim this has been the coldest season on record. Is there really global warming? Our home is heated by an electric heat pump so you can imagine the electric bills. .
This week I ordered my books for the next courses in this semester: "Foundations of Exceptionality" and "Understanding Educatonal Research and Assessment". I expect these core courses to be pretty heavy weighted.
Thanks for your continued prayers!
If you wish to view our adoption trip in 2008, you may still access those records by clicking the "archive" button or the "2008 button" on the right hand column of the blog.
Here in the south, locals claim this has been the coldest season on record. Is there really global warming? Our home is heated by an electric heat pump so you can imagine the electric bills. .
This week I ordered my books for the next courses in this semester: "Foundations of Exceptionality" and "Understanding Educatonal Research and Assessment". I expect these core courses to be pretty heavy weighted.
Thanks for your continued prayers!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
God Will Take Care of You
"Be not dismayed whate'er betide, God will take care of you." That's how the old hymn goes. And when you are following the Lord, he makes provison. I saw this again today. As I wondered how God will take care of our daily needs, an unexpected check arrived in the mail. No, it's not a Stimulus check but close - it was a check from the US Treasury. It seems that the IRS made an error on my 2007 taxes this time - in my favor for a substantial amount! Who needs unemployment compensation when the Lord is working! Yesterday at church the pastor approached me about a medical school that is looking to sponsor a child for surgical care. We happen to have a good candiate in our own home! We'll let you know how that situation turns out.
So, if you have a care, a worry, a concern, please don't hold on to it. Give it up to the Lord. Philippians 4:5b-6 says, "The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." The next verse will remind you that God's blanket of peace is available to comfort, sustain you and even protect your heart against the worries of the day. This is good news for those facing difficult economic situations.
On a side note. I'm doing very well in my Advanced Educational Psychology course. God is enabling me to keep up with the young bucks. Even received some kudos from the professor! Be praying however, that I might secure good employment and health insurance. And a good dentist. My upper wisdom teeth are in bad shape and are causing a measure of discomfort.
So, if you have a care, a worry, a concern, please don't hold on to it. Give it up to the Lord. Philippians 4:5b-6 says, "The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." The next verse will remind you that God's blanket of peace is available to comfort, sustain you and even protect your heart against the worries of the day. This is good news for those facing difficult economic situations.
On a side note. I'm doing very well in my Advanced Educational Psychology course. God is enabling me to keep up with the young bucks. Even received some kudos from the professor! Be praying however, that I might secure good employment and health insurance. And a good dentist. My upper wisdom teeth are in bad shape and are causing a measure of discomfort.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Congratulations!
Congratulations all Pittsburgh Steelers fans.
It was a tremendous game! Unfortunately we could only attend the game via radio since Comcast blocked out the signal in our area.
Steven was seen by a pediatrician familiar with special needs children. He is presently being treated for giardia (prevalent with most Internationally adopted children from China.) He's also being tested for other deficiencies and other illnesses. The doctor supports our application for Shriners Hospital.
Please pray that we will soon be able to acquire health insurance for the children. The Commonwealth of Virginia will not offer insurance unless one offers proof of income. That leaves us out since we are still unemployed. Roger had an interview with Liberty University last Friday. We'll see what the Lord does with that. He's still looking to see what doors will open for our family.
Enjoy the new photos! And keep praying!
It was a tremendous game! Unfortunately we could only attend the game via radio since Comcast blocked out the signal in our area.
Steven was seen by a pediatrician familiar with special needs children. He is presently being treated for giardia (prevalent with most Internationally adopted children from China.) He's also being tested for other deficiencies and other illnesses. The doctor supports our application for Shriners Hospital.
Please pray that we will soon be able to acquire health insurance for the children. The Commonwealth of Virginia will not offer insurance unless one offers proof of income. That leaves us out since we are still unemployed. Roger had an interview with Liberty University last Friday. We'll see what the Lord does with that. He's still looking to see what doors will open for our family.
Enjoy the new photos! And keep praying!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Settling In
For those who have been following our blog, here's an update.
1. Roger is in his third week of classes and is doing well in his class on Advanced Educational
Psychology. Roger is working on a research project titled, "Language acquisition challenges
and remediation strategies for post institutionalized internationally adopted children". So far
he has not found employment but God is taking care of the family's needs.
2. Holly has been helping the children acclimate to family life. Steven and Samuel both love to
paint and have been producing originial creations. They attend AWANA at church though they
don't quite know what to do, especially Steven (who doesn't know the language).
3, We are making plans to have Steven seen by a pediatrician who is skilled at caring for
internationally adopted children. He will need a complete blood work-up, including test for
parasites. Most children from China have giardia or someo other kind of infection. We have
also sent an application to Shriner's Hospital. They are expert at caring for children with
orthopedic needs. We'll may need an evaluation for Steven's cognitive and psycho-social
developmental issues.
4. Amy now officially has a Virginia learner's permit and is anxious to take a turn at the wheel.
Nice job Amy! She's progressing in her homeschooling
I hope you enjoy the latest pictures.
1. Roger is in his third week of classes and is doing well in his class on Advanced Educational
Psychology. Roger is working on a research project titled, "Language acquisition challenges
and remediation strategies for post institutionalized internationally adopted children". So far
he has not found employment but God is taking care of the family's needs.
2. Holly has been helping the children acclimate to family life. Steven and Samuel both love to
paint and have been producing originial creations. They attend AWANA at church though they
don't quite know what to do, especially Steven (who doesn't know the language).
3, We are making plans to have Steven seen by a pediatrician who is skilled at caring for
internationally adopted children. He will need a complete blood work-up, including test for
parasites. Most children from China have giardia or someo other kind of infection. We have
also sent an application to Shriner's Hospital. They are expert at caring for children with
orthopedic needs. We'll may need an evaluation for Steven's cognitive and psycho-social
developmental issues.
4. Amy now officially has a Virginia learner's permit and is anxious to take a turn at the wheel.
Nice job Amy! She's progressing in her homeschooling
I hope you enjoy the latest pictures.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Post Adoption Newsletter
In Spring 2007 I (Holly) first saw Yufei on the America World Adoption Association special need website. He was described as a six year-old boy with deformed wrists and fused knees. We expressed reservations about our ability to care for an older child with unique needs, we sensed God’s urging to pursue the adoption process. New pre-approval processes were required before we could begin the paperwork. Initially we believed that the small profits from the sale of our home in February 2007 were sufficient to cover the cost of the adoption but we were wrong.
Holly sometimes states, “Life is what happens when we’re making other plans”. Within a week of our application for adoption, our 21 year old daughter informed us of her engagement and upcoming marriage in April. There went a large portion of the adoption account. Then came Roger’s father’s unexpected death that required a family trip to Canada. Soon afterwards, our 17 year old daughter was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma. Then Roger’s employment was scheduled to end.
Knowing Roger’s employment was ending soon, he made plans to return full-time to graduate school. We secured housing near the university before our trip to China and scheduled our move to Virginia for three days after our return from China.
We are convinced God orchestrated the timing of all these transactions and he provided for all of our needs during this unsettling time. The adoption travel expenses maxed out our once empty credit card account though we had enough to cover the moving truck expenses and get us settled in our new home. Presently Roger is attending graduate school full-time to gain a masters degree in education; meanwhile he searches for employment that will cover the family’s needs and provide necessary medical coverage for the family.
Jiang Yu Fei was renamed Steven Yufei Nauss, after Steven Curtis Chapman whose ministry was the inspiration for the adoption of our children. Our son is very petite for his age, even for Chinese children. Though he is seven, he’s much smaller than Samuel, our four year old adopted son from China. Steven still has all of his baby teeth, though one front tooth is unhealthy and discolored. He is developmentally delayed, functioning at a kindergarten level in all areas. We learned that his knees are not only fused but they appear to be rotated and the legs actually are bowed backwards. He walks as if he were wearing stilts. When he falls, he rights himself up by rolling to his front and pushing himself up supported by the back of his hands and toes, and in one jerking motion, thrusts his rear upwards and hops up like a bird. When he walks he places one foot forward while whipping the other foot around using his hip. The entire process seems painful but he shows no pain. When he runs, he side-steps with quick shuffle-hop motions. When Steven eats, he picks up his fork with his right hand curled, places the hand over his left wrist and with the left arm, brings the right hand up to his face. Then he leans forward to eat from the fork. He utilizes the same process to brush his teeth. He has learned some clever ways to dress and undress himself.
Although he has not been officially diagnosed, we believe he has a lifelong disability called, “arthrogryposis”. We` do not believe he will ever be able to bend his knees independently though we believe that physical therapy may provide some benefit to the mobility he has already attained.
Steven came to the orphanage with two prominently pronounced 4 inch parallel scars on his forehead. The orphanage director says that he arrived at the orphanage with these scars and they know nothing of its cause. We hope someday that plastic surgery will be offered for him to hide these unfortunate disfigurements.
Steven has a delightful, mostly compliant demeanor with a ready smile; although very shy when meeting new people, at home he has opened up to us. Steven is eager to learn and desires to fit comfortably into the family unit. We love hearing him say, “momma and baba”. He loves his older sister and is learning to get along with his younger brother.
The most important thing we wish to offer Steven as he grows up in our home is to learn about and enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the One who loves him with an everlasting love. We pray someday Steven will enter into God’s forever family by receiving Christ as Savior and Lord.
Our family is still recovering from an exhausting and arduous 24 hour multi-plane trip home from China followed by our move to Virginia. However we are now settling into a daily routine with the children. Holly has begun homeschooling Steven, introducing him to family life and helping him gain a conversational use of English. Soon we hope to find a good pediatrician that can help Steven update his immunizations and implement a strategy to help Steven with his condition. We will soon be receiving an application form from Shriners Hospital in Greenville, SC. If they accept the application, then Steven's medical treatment may be covered. Let's see what God does!
Holly sometimes states, “Life is what happens when we’re making other plans”. Within a week of our application for adoption, our 21 year old daughter informed us of her engagement and upcoming marriage in April. There went a large portion of the adoption account. Then came Roger’s father’s unexpected death that required a family trip to Canada. Soon afterwards, our 17 year old daughter was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma. Then Roger’s employment was scheduled to end.
Knowing Roger’s employment was ending soon, he made plans to return full-time to graduate school. We secured housing near the university before our trip to China and scheduled our move to Virginia for three days after our return from China.
We are convinced God orchestrated the timing of all these transactions and he provided for all of our needs during this unsettling time. The adoption travel expenses maxed out our once empty credit card account though we had enough to cover the moving truck expenses and get us settled in our new home. Presently Roger is attending graduate school full-time to gain a masters degree in education; meanwhile he searches for employment that will cover the family’s needs and provide necessary medical coverage for the family.
Jiang Yu Fei was renamed Steven Yufei Nauss, after Steven Curtis Chapman whose ministry was the inspiration for the adoption of our children. Our son is very petite for his age, even for Chinese children. Though he is seven, he’s much smaller than Samuel, our four year old adopted son from China. Steven still has all of his baby teeth, though one front tooth is unhealthy and discolored. He is developmentally delayed, functioning at a kindergarten level in all areas. We learned that his knees are not only fused but they appear to be rotated and the legs actually are bowed backwards. He walks as if he were wearing stilts. When he falls, he rights himself up by rolling to his front and pushing himself up supported by the back of his hands and toes, and in one jerking motion, thrusts his rear upwards and hops up like a bird. When he walks he places one foot forward while whipping the other foot around using his hip. The entire process seems painful but he shows no pain. When he runs, he side-steps with quick shuffle-hop motions. When Steven eats, he picks up his fork with his right hand curled, places the hand over his left wrist and with the left arm, brings the right hand up to his face. Then he leans forward to eat from the fork. He utilizes the same process to brush his teeth. He has learned some clever ways to dress and undress himself.
Although he has not been officially diagnosed, we believe he has a lifelong disability called, “arthrogryposis”. We` do not believe he will ever be able to bend his knees independently though we believe that physical therapy may provide some benefit to the mobility he has already attained.
Steven came to the orphanage with two prominently pronounced 4 inch parallel scars on his forehead. The orphanage director says that he arrived at the orphanage with these scars and they know nothing of its cause. We hope someday that plastic surgery will be offered for him to hide these unfortunate disfigurements.
Steven has a delightful, mostly compliant demeanor with a ready smile; although very shy when meeting new people, at home he has opened up to us. Steven is eager to learn and desires to fit comfortably into the family unit. We love hearing him say, “momma and baba”. He loves his older sister and is learning to get along with his younger brother.
The most important thing we wish to offer Steven as he grows up in our home is to learn about and enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the One who loves him with an everlasting love. We pray someday Steven will enter into God’s forever family by receiving Christ as Savior and Lord.
Our family is still recovering from an exhausting and arduous 24 hour multi-plane trip home from China followed by our move to Virginia. However we are now settling into a daily routine with the children. Holly has begun homeschooling Steven, introducing him to family life and helping him gain a conversational use of English. Soon we hope to find a good pediatrician that can help Steven update his immunizations and implement a strategy to help Steven with his condition. We will soon be receiving an application form from Shriners Hospital in Greenville, SC. If they accept the application, then Steven's medical treatment may be covered. Let's see what God does!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Overwhelmed by God's goodness
Yesterday, we were informed that a generous benefactor has donated $25,000 to our family for our adoption needs. This gift will completely wipe out our adoption debt and allow us to help assess Steven's medical needs. He will need a complete physical exam and blood work, evaluate his arthrogryposis (if indeed that is his condition). These funds will also enable our family to stay afloat while Roger begins his education and seeks additional employment. We were trusting the Lord but he went way beyond our hopes and expectations,. Thank the Lord!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Welcome to Liberty U graduate colleagues
For those newcomers to the ChiNauss blog: "Ni-hao" (Good morning).
I'm Roger:
* husband of beautiful Holly (married 25 years this August)
* father to two beautiful daughters: Alicia (married and expecting in April, age 22), Amy (HS
junior and very talented)
* father to two active adopted boys from China: Samuel (age 4) and Steven (age 7+) Steven is
our newest adopted son (only 2 weeks) Both have special needs
* senior pastor for 20 years in three churches
* graduate of The King's College (BA inReligious Education) and Denver Seminary (M-Div)
* newly relocated to Virginia in order to attend Graduate School and be near family (moved two
days ago)
* recently returned from a two week trip to China (our second time) to adopt. We love the
Chinese people and culture and have many stories to tell
* ready to return to the academic world and gain certification in Secondary Education
* prayerfully seeking employment while attending f/t classes
I hope you enjoy this blog. I will be sharing both information on our adoption as well as post discussions on my learning experience in the classroom, particulary in Educational Psychology. God bless you, and welcome to our blog.
I'm Roger:
* husband of beautiful Holly (married 25 years this August)
* father to two beautiful daughters: Alicia (married and expecting in April, age 22), Amy (HS
junior and very talented)
* father to two active adopted boys from China: Samuel (age 4) and Steven (age 7+) Steven is
our newest adopted son (only 2 weeks) Both have special needs
* senior pastor for 20 years in three churches
* graduate of The King's College (BA inReligious Education) and Denver Seminary (M-Div)
* newly relocated to Virginia in order to attend Graduate School and be near family (moved two
days ago)
* recently returned from a two week trip to China (our second time) to adopt. We love the
Chinese people and culture and have many stories to tell
* ready to return to the academic world and gain certification in Secondary Education
* prayerfully seeking employment while attending f/t classes
I hope you enjoy this blog. I will be sharing both information on our adoption as well as post discussions on my learning experience in the classroom, particulary in Educational Psychology. God bless you, and welcome to our blog.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
We're home
You have heard the children's tune, "It's the song that never ends, and it goes on and on my friend". That's how yesterday's marathon flight home felt like to this weary family. It took over thirty waking hours and 22 flight hours before we became reacquainted with our beds at home. Steven did well on the travels with one exception. As we approached the runway at Minneapolis/St. Paul (our first American port of call and US Customs inspection station), our son decided he did not want to declare the contents of his stomach. So he left them on his airplane seat. The other thing that Steven is not enjoying is our dog Moxie. Moxie is an 80 pound chocolate lab mix and Steven has never had a personal encounter with an animal. So he's quite intimidated and afraid. But I feel in time he will adjust the same way Samuel did with the dog. However Steven does like our cats "shao-mao". (That's what is sounds like he's saying).
Samuel enjoyed the light to moderate turbulance but he did not like to do all the walking between gates.
One highlight in the journey was seeing the spectacular Mt. Fuji from our airplane windows.
Today we spent the day packing our remaining belongings for our move to Virginia. Now that jet lag is catching up with us, we'll sign off .
Thanks for all of your prayers. And keep reading as we share about our life with two boys.
One big praise item: We were notified that we are receiving one final adoption grant. Thank the Lord for his kindness!
Samuel enjoyed the light to moderate turbulance but he did not like to do all the walking between gates.
One highlight in the journey was seeing the spectacular Mt. Fuji from our airplane windows.
Today we spent the day packing our remaining belongings for our move to Virginia. Now that jet lag is catching up with us, we'll sign off .
Thanks for all of your prayers. And keep reading as we share about our life with two boys.
One big praise item: We were notified that we are receiving one final adoption grant. Thank the Lord for his kindness!
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