Bringing Little Man and Our Angel Home from Korea

Great News on Fundraising!

2015-07-24T16:48:00.003-07:00

Drum roll please....
We have only $710 left to raise of the $6,000 we needed for bringing our sweet girl, Kaylee, home from South Korea (only 71 puzzle pieces remain)! So amazing and humbling, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Now onto where we are at in the process - I luckily follow a Facebook group that tracks everything in the adoption process in South Korea. Unfortunately, it looks like we will not get to travel this year (we knew this might happen but I was hoping it wasn't the case). As of now, our best guess for our first trip might be around February 2016.

So for now, we just pray and send care packages to our sweet baby girl. She turns 2 August 5. I did send her a birthday care package that was filled with snacks, a rain coat, cute kitty cat outfit, Lamby, a baby doll, etc (we can only send what fits in a gallon bag - and by now I have become an expert at packing a gallon bag, there's a science to it). We also included a homemade card with our picture in it. We just can't wait to get our sweet baby girl home.

We really appreciate is our agency in CO - AAC. They have been wonderful about sending us updates and pictures almost monthly (which really helps with the huge wait). I love the fact that they actually traveled in May to visit the kids and I got some precious precious videos of our sweet girl and tons of pictures. Probably one of the sweetest things arrived the other day via e-mail - the outline of her little hand and foot (I know seems like nothing to most of you, but to me that just melted my heart). Thanks so much for all the people working at AAC to help bring our baby home. Hopefully Kaylee will be home soon!

Waiting on Korea

2015-06-07T16:21:00.002-07:00

We have had some interesting road blocks along this journey this time, but the good news is that we finally got Kaylee's I-600A approved - Yippy, might have been a headache and a lot more paperwork, but we finally got the approval!!! :-)
I know that to anyone not in the international Hague adoption process that means nothing, but in her journey that is a big deal (means she will automatically be a US Citizen when she steps on US soil)! So exciting - now we wait on Korea to process her Exit Permit so we can then get a court date in Korea.

The process is so different this time around. This time 2 trips and the initial trip will be before a Korean judge. I pray everything from here on out goes very smooth. We got some really sweet pics and videos from our placing agency this past month. Was so cool to see her open one of our care packages and wearing clothing we have sent her!
The journey is becoming even more real - with my husband giving up his precious Honda Civic so we could get a Honda Odyssey and keep our other SUV so we have a backup family vehicle for 6!

Yes 6, that number scares me at times, but I just can't wait to hold my baby girl and I know with the Lord all will be good! Not perfect - I know already with 5 we have up and down days, but the up outweighs the down and I wouldn't trade being mommy for anything. Even on the hardest days when I'm having to explain to one of my kids why making bad choices is not the wisest thing, even when I'm tired, it is worth it!!!

Anyway, while we wait I have been busy fund raising and creating care packages. So far we have sold t-shirts, had a Noonday sale, participated in a bake/craft sale for adoption in our community, and currently selling puzzle pieces ($10 a piece - your family's last name on the back of each piece purchased that will be displayed in her room - double sided glass and actual puzzle is below front pink area is actually her smiling sweet face, we just can't show it online until she is home). Overall, we have raised appoximately $600 (which is awesome)! If you would like to help bring Kaylee home, then please use the following link to contribute online - thanks so much for considering helping bring our sweet daughter home:
http:/gofundme.com/ty3mq4

Exciting News...

2015-02-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

We just thought Jacob was our last addition to our family... but I was wrong... :-)
Right when you think you have everything figured out, that's when exciting things happen. As of Oct. of this past year we have a precious little girl waiting for us to bring her home from Korea. Yes, we are going back to Korea - this time under the new adoption law, but so exciting. God has blessed our family so much and I can't wait to hold my daughter for the first time hopefully this fall or winter!!!
Some would say, why continue to add to your family It is hard to explain but when God moves in your heart to do something then as Nike says, "Just Do it!" You won't regret following his lead - even though the road may not be easy, follow His will.
I cannot post pictures of our sweet daughter, but I will tell you she is a happy happy child. Smiles all the time so we picked a fitting name for our angel - Kaylee (means Pure in Greek and Joy in Hebrew - she is Pure Joy). Her name also honors my aunt who I never got to meet on my Mom's side and would only be 10 years older than me. Her middle name will be Elizabeth, so Kaylee Elizabeth.
It is exciting and scary, but we couldn't be more joyful - yes, I am was almost out of children at home, but so exciting to get a blessing like Kaylee in our lives. We can see God in every piece of Kaylee's story and our adoption and it is amazing!
Our kids are so excited too!!! Rebekah can't wait to have a sister and is already telling me how to decorate their room - yes, they will share a room (Frozen theme). Jacob and Mason are just excited to have another playmate. So much to come, look forward to telling more of our story as we wait for Kaylee and become a family of 6. :-)

Happy New Year!

2014-01-15T11:32:00.003-08:00

Well, yes, I've been very very busy and just now feel like I have some time to blog again. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. It has been crazy busy but fun around our house these days. My husband got me a Korean cook book for Christmas since I really didn't want or need anything. I am loving it! So far I've made sweet rice balls, japchae, seasoned spinach, and seasoned zucchini. Jacob has told me, "I'm the bestest cook ever." Apparently I'm making my Korean dishes correctly with this cook book because I haven't always got that response for my Korean cooking from him.

For family and friends this year, we decided to make the majority of our Christmas gifts (items that were usable). I was worried about the response, but everyone seem to really enjoy what was made for them. Just a month before Christmas I had learned about making my own soaps and cleaners and really got caught up in finding the healthiest items to use for glass cleaner, soap, laundry detergent, floor cleaner, etc. This lead me to creating some really cool cleaning products for just pennies. My kids love the body wash I make out of honey and my husband loves the floor cleaner and glass cleaner. My husband is so excited about the glass cleaner that he wants me to investigate selling some of these products (to see if we could actually make any money). Guess that's my next big project! I'll keep you posted on how it goes.

New Years didn't go exactly as planned. Jacob got a stomach bug that delayed out plans with another family in celebrating Korean New Year. We just postponed our celebration by a few days. It ended up being a very fun time that we all enjoyed!

Now to the present - all 3 kids are in school (boys 3 days a week and Rebekah going forward through her 1st grade year). Winter break was a blast! Our 2 oldest worked on getting their Junior Ranger Stones River Battlefield badge, Underground Railroad badge, and Fort Donelson badge - with final outcome a Junior Civil War Historian badge (they really enjoyed getting to learn more about history and it was a fun way for them to spend their time off). I took the boys last week to the Hermitage (Andrew Jackson's home) for the 199 anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans. They had a great time! Mason even got a picture made with Andrew Jackson and his wife Rachael.

With everyone being in school 3 days a week, I've been coming up projects that need to be completed around the house. So far, I've repainted Rebekah's old desk to match her room and give her a personal space for doing her homework in the evenings (she gets so upset at the boys for being loud and gets so distracted by everything going on). She loves her next desk and workspace (total cost for reworking the old table - $12).

Today I finally got the boys moved into a room with a bathroom. I took the "playroom" and transformed it into their room. They have more floor space and closet space. The "playroom" can be put back out when needed (every toy has a place in the closet - making it easy for the boys to pick up their room when finished playing at the end of the day). Was nice to not have to lock the closet and finally have a place for everything. As Jacob said when he saw his new room, "you make me so happy" - aka I love my new room! :-)

Next house project, convert their old room into a guest room (something we haven't had since moving here almost 4 years ago). :-)

Boy's new bedroom

Painting Rebekah's table

Mason with Andrew Jackson

Being Sworn in as a Junior Rangers

Fun on a snow day (I know - it's just a dusting)

Sleeping with his toys from Santa

Me and my kids (I love being Mom)!

Halloween and more...

2013-11-12T07:45:00.002-08:00

Well, another holiday has come and gone and the kids are getting so big! The boys really enjoyed being Power Rangers for Halloween (Mason red and Jacob blue) and my girl and I rocked the Little Mermaid costumes (which my kids thought was so silly that Mommy dressed up - Dad also had an Ironman shirt). This year was really different! A big storm came on Halloween which messed up trick-or-treating for alot of kids. We decided to trick-or-treat at my aunt's house in Nashville and the local Publix grocery had a Halloween event that night (with each department having games and candy or even face painting - nice way to spend a very wet and stormy night). We also went on the night our city said would be Halloween (which was the next night). The kids had so much candy - grand total of 10 pounds all together. Of course, who can eat that much candy so we decided to do the great candy buy back at a Pediatric dentist office (that is where they weight your candy and either pay you for the candy $1 a lb or give you a gift then ship the candy to the troops over seas for them to have a snack). My oldest and youngest chose a very cute water bottle but my middle child picked the money ($2.50) so he could go put that with his piggy bank money and buy a toy he has wanted for so long (Big Bang Trigger Happy). So a win win overall. The kids did select a bag full of candy to keep that they will eat in probably until next year (you know, the good stuff - Kit Kat's, Reece's peanut butter cups, etc). Overall, a very fun and memorable Halloween. Now, bring on the turkey. :-)

Water bottles from the Candy give away

The small bags they selected for themselves

Big piles of candy (to take to Candy give away and keep)

Trick-or-treating with friends

Check out Jacob's face painting

Getting some blue paint

Her little butterfly face paint

My girl getting her face painted

Power Rangers doing some shopping

Me and the kids with my aunt

Power Rangers and Mermaid ready to trick-or-treat

My silly Mermaid

Nets at the zoo

Petting a Kangaroo

Kids with their pumpkin

Carving our 50 lb beast pumpkin

Getting the insides out of the pumpkin

Time to punch glow holes

School Life

2013-09-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well, since my last post some things around here have changed (and this post should explain my absence from blogging). We found out the day before Kindergarten/KR started that my middle son did not get into the KR program. Since I did not have a deposit down anywhere in case he didn't get in (and nothing seemed to indicate he wouldn't get into the program), I felt really really depressed and sad, didn't know what I was going to do, but I did not want to send him to Kindergarten (he was not emotionally ready). To make a long story short, I decided I would home school him this year and he can start Kindergarten next year.

Here is the cool thing. I didn't want to do it, but God had other plans for me that were better. I was planning on this year being 1 more year with Jacob and maybe taking some education to get me back on track to go into the work force in a few years. Every school I called didn't have a spot for Mason or was super duper expensive. As my husband said, stop fighting it and just home school him this year.

After lots of prayer, I decided if I was going to do this, then I was going to treat it just like a school environment (he needed help with structure and learning to raise his hand and sit still for 7+ hours a day with breaks in between). I have a syllabus every day and have had some awesome church friends who home school help me by giving me books to copy, ideas, etc. We started as soon as Kindergarten started (so we are almost 4 weeks in). He didn't like having to sit for so long and would tire to begin with but he quickly learned to endure the work load (so check 1 on my list of success). Jacob is also getting to learn with him, but he is not made to sit still as much, he is only 3 (so this is good for both boys on being with others in a classroom). The next success took a little longer, but now he raises his hand when he wants to ask a question (success number 2). He has also learned to use his inside voice more and rest on a nap mat (success 3 and 4). Now we are working on not talking all the time (he is a chatter box, but it is getting better). He has also started to talk to me about his day and what he did and wants to do (this has been a long time coming and I couldn't be a happier Mom). It makes me smile that my son wants to interact with me and we can have a conversation. I have loved seeing both boys learn from me and I get to see how they are growing and maturing. It has given me the confidence to home school Jacob for preschool and KR for the next few years. I believe Mason needed me as much as I needed him this year (this has been a special year so far and we are both learning so much).

My oldest child, Rebekah, is wanting to learn what Mason is learning (she didn't even know which state she lived in on a map). This has encouraged me to do educationally fun activities on the weekends as a family. So, we will probably take a trip to the local Frist art museum, Cheekwood, the symphony, local parks, etc. All 3 kids are so eager to learn and it is fun to see that love for learning (it makes me smile). Rebekah even spent her Saturday after cheerleading working on worksheets from Mason's work this week and wanted to learn more about frogs from the Internet (one of the books we read this week was Jump Frog Jump so the activities were around that book).

Also, we celebrated Jacob's gotcha day yesterday with some dear friends who have an adopted son who has the same gotcha day (he is from Russia). Since her husband is part Korean, we celebrated with Korean food and cake (the kids loved it)! Such a special day for our little guys and our families. It is hard to believe it has been a year since Jacob became our son. Happy gotcha day Jacob!!! We love you!

Below are pictures of what has been going on around here (enjoy)...

Happy Gotcha Day!

All 3 Playing

All 3 Learning Together

Brotherly Love

Cheerleading

Cupcakes

1st Day of 1st Grade

Happy 3rd Birthday Jacob!

Our Home School Area

Learning At Home

Jacob's Reward From Chuckee Cheese

Mason's First Field Trip (Helping Mommy Retreat Plan)

Microwave Shopping

Sense of Hearing Day

Birthdays and More

2013-07-29T11:01:00.002-07:00

Since the last post, a lot has been going on. July has been a very busy month. We have had 4 birthdays during this month in our family. Since this was Jacob's first birthday here in America, we didn't know what he would think about it. Needless to say, he has loved it (especially cupcakes)! Our little guy turned 3 this past Friday and we made sure celebrate all day long. We went out and got a McDonald's Happy Meal for lunch, shopping for his present at Toys'rus, and finishing the day out with homemade chicken Japchae and a cupcake. He also got to celebrate with his brother at Mema's earlier this month with a Super Hero theme (that he loved) and a Ice Cream party with his brother here at home with friends and family. It was so cute when he woke up on his birthday and he told me he was 3 and showed me with his hand. He also decided a few days ago to be potty trained (YIPPY)!!! So far so good - no accidents for the past 4 days. We also got both boys into their newly restored big boy beds (which use to be their Daddy's bunk beds) with their bedding from Aunt Amy. They also got to help decorate the room and they love their new big boy bedroom! So as school is approaching we are finishing out July with full speed ahead.

All 3 kids helped sand and paint (they loved helping and did a great job)

Painting (doing a good job kids)!

The boys' new beds and redesigned room

Trying on his Hanbok (fits really well now)

Sprinkler Time at his birthday party

Cars - his favorite kind of toys

Happy Birthday Boys (my 5 and 3 year olds)!

Loves the gift he got at ToysRus (Batmobile with Batman)

Japchae (yum)

Happy Birthday little guy

Enjoying cupcakes at a friend's party

What We've Been Doing

2013-07-03T20:50:00.001-07:00

Well, after vacation we got back into summer here at home and having a blast! I have been working with all 3 kids on their skills for school next year (even though Jacob will be here with me, he got to work on his skills too) and playing hard outside as much as possible (swing set, rocks, sand - you name it, they will play with it). We have also been having fun with friends and family (Jacob got to go to his first wedding-one of his favorite babysitters). One of the most awesome things we did that I didn't know how it would go was a mid day movie at the local cinema. We watched Smurfs and I survived with all 3 kids by myself (even carrying popcorn, drinks). It was very relaxing on a hot summer day to just chill in the theater while the kids enjoyed their food and movie. Now, we are getting ready for the 4th, both boys' birthdays this month, and various other birthdays and celebrations throughout July. Another good news item is that Jacob got his TN birth certificate finally so now we can file for his certificate of citizenship (almost finished - yippy). Overall, life is good and we are having fun fun fun! 3 has been an adjustment, but very very doable. Love all 3 of my children and can't imagine life without them (they are each special in their own way)! Below are some pictures of what we've been doing (enjoy):

Our kids dressed up for the wedding

At the kids' table (they loved it)

Jacob being silly

Hugging the bride

Hanging with Pa

Wiped out

Bring on the fireworks

Enjoying the fireworks at home

Brothers taking a break to play with rocks

Vacation

2013-06-11T11:34:00.004-07:00

We were blessed recently to have went on a wonderful vacation for a week. It was so much fun for us all and a well needed rest. We started our vacation with an Atlanta Braves game in GA then 3 nights in Daytona on the beach finishing up with 3 nights at Disney staying in the park. The kids loved, loved, loved everything we did. Jacob's most exciting thing was Mickey Mouse (his favorite character) selected him for the breakfast parade at Ohana. He kept telling me that Mickey was his Mickey and smiling (it was precious). Our daughter, Rebekah, (who is 6) rode Space Mountain. She told me she thought it might be fun when she is 10, but for now she did not like the ride (oh well, Mom loved it-especially since it was redesigned, it is a great coaster)! The kids also really enjoyed the giant Lego statues at the Lego store in Downtown Disney. Mason really was excited about the legos and got another set of Spiderman legos while at Downtown Disney. Was priceless seeing all 3 of our kids enjoying one another and having tons of fun. Oh well, back to the real world (lots of laundry and stuff to put away now). Till next year... Below are some pictures from our trip.

Braves game time

Ice Cream break

You jump first brother...

Splash splash

Our kids had this splash pad all to themselves most of our time in Daytona (they loved it)

Playing on the beach

Jacob really liked the sand

Filling his bucket up

All 3 kids having a great time at the beach

Family picture on the beach

It's Lilo

Jacob's highlight of the entire vacation (Mickey with him in the parade)

It's Mickey Mouse

Haircut at Disney

Riding It's a Small World (he loved it)

Daddy with his little man

Daddy with his boys at the pool

Past Few Months

2013-05-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

Life is good as Jacob continues to grow. Recently he learned his colors (and he was so proud that he would bring different colored blocks to me and tell me what color they are). He has finally moved into his correct age class at church on Sunday and loves his teachers and friends. He also loves his class at CBS on Fridays and my husband and I have been able to take a few date nights in recent months (he loves the sitter we have - she is amazing). It is hard to think that it has been 8 months since we brought him home. He is an amazing little boy!

Easter has came and went again. We did have our annual Easter Egg hunt for the 4th year on Good Friday and it was sweet to see Jacob hunting with the other kids (he loved it). Jacob not only hunted, but he helped me put together the 800+ eggs we had to hide. The kids also got to decorate eggs (which Jacob loved). We also for the first time stayed home for Easter and went to a friend's house for Easter dinner and egg hunt. It was a sweet time to let our kids play while us adults enjoyed visiting. I hope this has started a new tradition for our family.

Jacob's US flag came. Was so cool to have something he can look back on when he is grown (it actually flew over the US capitol on his finalization day and came with a certificate)!

Since finalization we have been waiting on his certificate of birth so we can finish up his adoption with a certificate of citizenship. As you can tell from the pictures, that is what I'm doing while the kids are enjoying chalk art, soccer, and just having fun outside. While we wait we have been planning our summer vacation and can't wait to head out in a few weeks for fun in the sun in FL.

Below are some pictures to enjoy (more to come soon)...

Jacob's US flag certificate

My eggcellent egg helper...

Another awesome egg hunt with great friends (800+ eggs, love love love doing this every year)

Enjoying a snack from Korea (nothing better than shrimp snacks)

Egg decorating time

Look what the Easter Bunny brought!

Our family

Playing with friends before egg hunt

Ready to go egg hunting

On the hunt...

Watching brother play soccer is so tiring

Playing in the dirt with brother

Chalk art

Finally Final

2013-03-26T13:25:00.004-07:00

Today we went before a judge and Jacob's adoption was finalized! It was such a great day - Jacob had on a suit (he looked so cute). We had a few really good friends join us in court who helped with pictures and entertaining Jacob. The entire process took maybe 10 minutes and then everything was finished.

So what is next you say... Well, now we wait on his new birth certificate and adoption decree to come back then we can apply for his certificate of citizenship and social security number. Can't believe we began this process 22 months ago and now he is officially a Hogue.

I don't think he knew what was going on, but we will have pictures to show him when he is older and we did have a flag flown over the US capitol today in honor of this day (he will also have that as a reminder). Such a special day and so glad that is behind us...

Jacob hanging out with Mr. Derek

Jacob trying to share his Korean snacks with the Judge (don't think he is interested)

Jacob with the Judge and Mommy and Daddy

Everyone who was there

6 Months Home

2013-03-08T09:54:00.002-08:00

Well, yesterday marked 6 months that Jacob came home with my husband and I and we officially became a family of 5! I cannot express how this little guy has changed our lives and those who get to meet him. He has melted so many hearts. Such a sweet, kind, loving kid. He loves to be cuddled. Yes, he still does not like being told no, but it is less dramatic. He is learning to get what he wants by using his manners instead of tantrums. He still loves to follow his brother and repeat what he says (so his English is amazing and his understanding of the language). The really awesome thing is that he still knows Korean too! He is just an overall joy and I can't imagine life without him. So glad God put Jacob in our family (he fits so well - it is amazing)...

Later this month we go to court to finalize everything and make Jacob not only officially a member of our family, but also a US Citizen. We are so excited for our little guy. We are having a US flag flown over the US capitol in honor of his citizenship day and can't wait to hold onto the flag and certificate and explain the significance of that day to him. You can count on us to celebrate this day with friends and family - it will be a great day!

More pictures to come and info once that day is here. Such an exciting time in our house.

Someone wants to be like Daddy...

Enjoying his brother and sister with some fun Batman figures

Final docs mailed

2013-02-08T13:44:00.001-08:00

Well, we mailed our final documents and checks yesterday for court and birth certificates. Now we wait on a court date to finalize everything in March we hope. We are so excited and cannot believe this whole adoption is almost complete. To celebrate I made Jacob some of his favorite foods and he really enjoyed it. I plan on having tons of Korean dishes once we are 100% final-can we say big party that day (believe it is the most we can give him since he celebrated 2 birthdays in Korea)!!!

Here is the latest on our little guy... His English has took off (and I mean took off - he talks all the time), he is loving his CBS class and Sunday school, loves his family, has an amazing relationship with the family dog, and is just an all around clown (loves to make people laugh). He is a happy happy little guy. It is very hard to not smile when around him. We love him so much! He was definitely worth the long wait!

Now as we wait on a set court date, I'll leave you with some pictures...

What a playroom looks like during the Super Bowl with 4 busy boys!

Very happy with his lunch (especially that Kimchi)!

Out on a nice warm day in his cozy coupe

Going for a sledding with dad pulling

Going for a slide in the snow

Post Placements Complete!!!

2013-01-30T10:15:00.001-08:00

Well, as of Jan. 23 2013 - our post placements for Jacob are complete. Now we wait on the lawyer we hired to give us a court date in March to finalize Jacob's adoption. Yippy! Almost finished and Jacob will be a US Citizen and officially ours forever!!!

Life with Jacob has been a fun trip. It is like he has always been here. He just started speaking English in the last few weeks (almost like he was waiting to get the English language perfect before speaking-now he says everything). He loves to follow his brother around and repeat what he says (it is so cute)! He is so unbelievably fun and expressive. He does have a very strong will, but loves to laugh (that strong will will take him far in the future).

Life with 3 has been difficult at times, but we are making it work. I am starting to feel human again (like having a new baby - there is a period where you don't know your name or what day of the week it is or when you ate or showered last, hehehe). Jacob has started allowing us to leave him in his class at church on Sunday and at CBS on Fridays for 2 hours (a much needed Mommy break with other fellow women and God's word). Those little breaks plus finally a date night with my husband and life looks good. I see the light at the end of the tunnel. My kids are growing up and all is going well. Plus my amazing husband has decided to help me with the grocery shopping on the weekends (which has helped alot). I am now finding time to deep clean areas of the house during the day due to not having grocery shopping to worry about. We now make grocery shopping a weekend family outing. Everyone helps out (kids help get the groceries and unload the cart plus they assist with putting everything up). I know that seems strange, but they really like to grocery shop. Been neat to see our family work as a team. We actually got a free whole chicken this last week at Publix (which is Jacob's favorite food). :-) The things that make you smile as a family are so different than when we were with no kids. I can't imagine a life without my little joys. Each and everyone of them are special in their own ways and I thank God everyday for Him allowing me to be their Mom.

Below are a few pictures of the last few months (enjoy)...

He loves his Mommy!

Helping Daddy

Nothing like pillows

Running in Jan. (an unusually warm day)

Rocking the hat his foster mom gave him before we left Korea

My very expressive little man with his "J" monkey he loves so much

Happy New Year!!!

2013-01-03T13:22:00.004-08:00

Well, we had a wonderful Christmas! Jacob even got to have his picture made with Santa (he just would not leave his stroller to sit in Santa's lap). Also, the kids made cookies for Santa, a gingerbread train, and some reindeer food so Santa would find our house. Jacob got the hang of unwrapping presents very quickly - he soon wanted to open everyone's gifts (it was so cute). Some of his favorite gifts were the Cozy Coupe from Nana, his Little People car wash set from Mema, Lego table from Mom and Dad, Firetruck from Santa, and Cookie Monster bean bag toss from Aunt Amy and Uncle Jay. Now, we just all wish it would snow!!! So cold right now, but no snow (come on snow)...

To finish the year we celebrated with good friends. Jacob actually went with the sitter at the party for a couple of hours (which was great)!!! I so long for him to really believe I am coming back for him and to not worry about where I am. I am glad he has attached (that is a huge blessing).

So as I finish this - 2012 was a great year. Yes, we had ups and downs while waiting on Jacob to come home, but once home he has been awesome! We really have nothing to complain about. He is healthy and seems to be doing very well for his age. He is starting to speak English but would rather speak Korean and likes some American foods but still loves his Korean dishes (especially Kimchi for all meals of the day). He is such a joy and I'm amazed at what he has taught me. He is such a sweet boy who charms all who meet him. A comedian who has a sweet heart (loves loves loves to share - well except for his toys). :-)

Anyway, Happy New Year and below are some pictures from the past month (enjoy)...

Brothers playing cars over a Spiderman book

Tea party with chocolate donuts

Check out his tower he built - so proud!

Love love love their new bean bag toss games - thanks Uncle Jay and Aunt Amy

Time for a nap - nothing like a boy and his dog.

Loves his Cozy Coupe

Lego time

Christmas is coming...

2012-12-04T15:28:00.001-08:00

So, Jacob experienced his first Thanksgiving. He seemed to love the turkey but not much more than that. For our family, we did our normal 1 day trip to see family then home. The only new experience for us was that I cooked a huge breakfast like I do for Christmas. I know, Thanksgiving-why are you cooking breakfast? I figured if we fill up on the first meal of the day then we won't be so stuffed at the other meals like usual. I believe it worked-we ate normal portions at our other meals and didn't feel so stuffed. And, no we did not go black Friday shopping. I perfer to shop via Amazon from my home-no line, no pushing, and no fuss. :-)

Next day we got our Christmas lights and tree up and packages wrapped. I like to have it all done so I can enjoy the holidays with no stress. I will say this has been the earliest I have put the tree up and wrapped packages, but it felt good to know nothing but cards are left.

Jacob is also recovering from his first sickness (he got an ear infection). No fun but we are getting through it. So glad he has been well for 3 months and hope he's health continues to be so well.

We also got to recently help with our church's adoption Sunday this year and share some details of our journey with the body. Looking back it was just a year ago when I found out our wait would be longer. Now Jacob is here and doing great! It is like he had always been here. Can't wait till Christmas (this Mom has great plans for my kids' gift this year - believe they will love it). More to come soon...

Enjoying his favorite outing - Sweet CeCe's

Playing with Thomas the train

Trip to Opry Mills - nothing like visiting the Rain Forest Cafe hippo

The kids with our new Christmas tree (they loved decorating it)

Fall and Halloween (8 weeks home)!

2012-11-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Well, Jacob has had a blast enjoying TN fall weather! Our family has visited 2 pumpkin patches and had a wonderful time the other night enjoying Halloween. He really loved the idea of going to someone's house and saying "Trick-or-treat" to get a treat (didn't take long to figure that one out). :-)
I believe his favorite thing at the pumpkin patch was the farm animals (he really has a love of animals). All is going well here - he is starting to really trust me and my husband by sitting in out laps to watch TV and even sometimes crawling up on my chest to rest (this is huge). He is overall continuing to adjust well.
I had an interesting encounter the other day. An older gentleman was at my daughter's art class waiting on his grand-daughter and Jacob decided to interact with him. The man really enjoyed playing with Jacob and when we were ready to leave I went over to have Jacob tell him Thank you and Bye. The man proceeded to tell me that he had been silly enough to think so many years ago he was saving his grand-daughter and what she did for him was save him. I thought that was odd and began to wonder if his grand-daughter was adopted too. Sure enough, the little girl that came out of art class was Asian. You just never know who God will put in your path and for what reason, but his statement really encouraged me that maybe others who have praised us for helping Jacob will see that Jacob is as much a blessing to us too. He is my miracle number 3!
On that note, below are some new pictures from the past few weeks (enjoy)!!!

With his Aunt Amy and Uncle Jay's goats

Walking with Papa Earl

Papa Earl under all my kids

Grain bins are fun!

Photo moment at Walden Farm

Checking out the baby pigs

Loved the animals

Running through the pumpkin patch

Me with my kids

Exhausted!

Annual trip with friends to Gentry Farm (it was so cold - can you tell)!

Maze time

More grain bins

He loves chickens

Riding a riding tractor

Time for a brotherly lightsaber battle

First smore - he loved, loved, loved it!

With their jack-o-laterns

Ready to Trick-or-treat

Jacob as Captain America

Ready to go and get some treats

Enjoying all their treats!

6 weeks

2012-10-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today marks 6 weeks home for Jacob. He continues to amaze us with how well he is doing. A few days ago he began allowing me to nap with him (was so sweet and a huge step). He also began last night wanting to give hugs to me and Brian. I know these things seem so simple but they are huge (it's like watching your baby take their first steps - so exciting)! He knows his new name and can tell you where his brother and sister are and what their names are plus he is learning English by leaps and bonds. He has really bonded with both siblings but especially his big brother now. There is a special bond between the two of them. Life is going great for us! Jacob even went to vote with me yesterday-he slept through our entire little 15 minute wait to vote (wasn't bad at all). Life is good-he is such a blessing to our family. He is a special little guy! Below are some recent pictures (enjoy)...

Playing at the lego table at Barnes and Noble

Nothing like voting

Swinging

Going for a run

Helping decorate for Halloween/Fall (he is almost as big as our pumpkin guy)

Being silly with his brother

Getting ready to dig

Playing with friends at the park

Sliding with big sister

1st Post Placement and Life as 5

2012-10-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Well, we are working on completing our 1st post placement documentation. So far, I placed the pictures on the wrong type of paper (there was a specific form to put them on - so minor redo, thank goodness for Walgreens)! Our visit with the social worker went very well - he stood off from her for awhile (his normal stance until he understands you are cool) then he began sharing his snacks and stickers with her. Overall, post placement 1 is behind us and now we prepare for the one in November (round 2).
Almost 1 month home and we have been a busy busy family of 5. I feel so fortunate that Jacob loves to go out. He has been to a marriage conference, a women's retreat, birthday party, grocery, Chuckee Cheese, church, CBS, etc - he loves going. Which our family is always on the go - so he fits us so so well.
Yesterday was a huge milestone for him - he began giving me kisses and hugs freely and told me he loved me in Korean. He loves, loves, loves his bed (and sleeps through the night-huge blessing)!!! He had his first hair cut by Daddy last night - went very very well (he stood very still and let Daddy give him a great hair cut - check it out)!

His new hair cut - he loves it!

I know that the first birthday is huge in Korea (a Dohl). As far as we know he didn't get to celebrate a traditional Dohl (with all the items laid out for him to select what his future might be) and we are going to have him a little one in a few weeks with just some really really close friends. Yes, he is alittle over 2 now, but we didn't get to celebrate his 2nd birthday with him either (so this will be his birthday celebration/Dohl).

I also have very sweet sister-in-laws who are putting together a welcome home Jacob party in November for both sides of our family and friends. It will be a way for us to share our adoption journey with them and to meet Jacob. I love the fact that there will be no gifts but instead food for a local food bank in that area. We are planning on doing something like it here at home very soon for all our family and friends who helped bring Jacob home here in the 'Boro (hopefully an 80s party). I could go on and on about the support and love from our church family (it has been truly amazing and moving to see the body work as it should). We have had yummy meals that are still coming ever since we came home (which has been awesome and so so helpful) and my husband has been amazing helping me when he comes home after a long day at work (we tag team and get everyone in bed by 8:30 so we can have a mini date night at home almost every evening).

Life as 5 has only been more laundry and more planning when going out (like I had all 3 at the grocery the other day - a little crazy, but so doable). It hasn't really slowed us down. We love our family and feel complete as 5! Thank goodness the Lord saw to add Jacob to our crazy family. He is such a blessing to us all - we love him so so much!!!

Below are some recent photos and video (enjoy)!!!

Feeding himself

Sleeping in his bed in his room with his big brother Mason

Being silly with Rebekah

Mommy playing with the kids with Lincoln Logs

Mason and Jacob working on a tower

Rebekah and Jacob working on spelling

Daddy being silly with Jacob

3 baths ready for bed watching some last minute TV with Daddy

First week Home - family of 5!

2012-09-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

Well, we have been a family of 5 for a little over 1 week now. So far so good. Jacob is adjusting better than expected. He calls my husband and I the Korean names for Mom and Dad, he loves his siblings and the family dog, and he does not seem to be afraid of anything! We have taken him to the grocery, church, and a marriage conference. Jacob fits our family so well. He loves cars, spicy food, and going out and about. It is like he has been here forever.

He is a sweet kind little boy with a big heart (loves sharing his snacks - he proved that when we arrived at the airport with wonderful friends to greet us. He greeted them by handing out snacks to everyone present. He has even been sleeping through the night (a few bumps trying to adjust with going to bed at crazy hours, but now we are on schedule. He was a very lucky little boy who had a wonderful foster mom - she did an amazing job with him!

Our family has been trying to slowly get him adjusted. We started by sleeping on the floor with him and now we all sleep together in our bed (for now). Now, he is starting to get interested in his bed - the last 2 nights he has been laying there for 10 mins or so - he wants to be like big brother and big sister. We ate on the floor until a few nights ago - as they do in Korea. Now, he is at the table with the family. He wasn't a big fan of the car seat to begin with but when he found out that you go places when you ride in that seat he is now a big fan. He loves loves loves being outside (as you will see in the pictures below). His diet hasn't changed much - still feeding him Korean with chop sticks (which seems to make him very happy). We are trying to expose him to other foods, but so far just Korean or fruits and veggies (healthy little guy).

Overall, he is adjusting very well. He is a healthy active little boy. We are all so in love in with him - welcome to America Jacob!

In his car seat - yes, it is purple, was big sister's (I will get a new cover soon).

Riding his 4-wheeler that someone at Brian's work got him (he loves it)!

Him in his bed testing it out!

Going for a run outside!

Playing at the sand table with his brother and sister!

Stacking blocks with big brother!

Gotcha Day

2012-09-09T03:14:00.002-07:00

Well, September 6, 2012 was our Gotcha Day for Jacob. Our day started by us just taking it easy then we headed to Eastern to serve in the Baby House. Unfortunately, we underestimated our train ride and only got 30 minutes with the babies - but that will be 30 minutes we will never forget! It really breaks your heart to see 60+ babies (some 2 to 3 in makeshift cribs). They are crying and just wanting human touch and affection. They are so low on staff that some babies even had bottles balanced in their crib to help feed them. Crushes your heart to know that Jacob was here for a period of time. The babies were so sweet - you just wanted to take them home with you.

After we finished there we were off to take custody of Jacob. The meeting started with 30 minutes of play and we got to meet the foster mom's daughter-in-law and her two kids. They also proceeded to give us all kinds of food, snacks, and gifts. It was so sweet. They also gave Brian an energy drink (guess she knew he would need it to keep up with Jacob).

Before we left the play room we left for a prayer at the front door of Eastern and he took my hand (we thought, wow, this is going to be easier than we thought). When the prayer was over everything just happened really fast. He said his goodbyes while the Eastern social worker told us to get in the van then she quickly told us bye and handed Jacob to me and shut the door. He was okay until we started to drive away and then the grieving began. It was hard to watch, but understandable (he loved her and she loved him). We both held it together but I couldn't look back at the foster mom (because I was on the edge of tears). My husband said she was smiling as we left (I'm sure being strong for Jacob). I did have to quickly pass Jacob to Brian because he was grieving so bad (he is so strong). Before the ride was over, he was asleep (thank goodness - so we looked normal entering the hotel).

After that he woke and cried another 3 hours and called for his foster mom then back to sleep again. As hard as it was, my husband and I just took turns holding and loving him. It was during that time we requested prayer from some of friends. The most amazing thing happened when Jacob woke up (keep in mind these awesome individuals were praying from midnight on here in the US). He sat up and played with me then we ordered room services (traditional Korean meal) and we all ate together on the bed. It was such a precious memory. Then we just went to bed and got up the next day for the airport. There were no more tears from there on. I'm telling you, the power of prayer is amazing - God provided and knew exactly what we needed and what Jacob needed.

Jacob was awesome on the plane - he loved it. He sat in Brian's lap the entire trip and watched Korean cartoons and ate and slept (it was so sweet to watch). When we arrived in Nashville, some of our amazing friends were there to greet us. Jacob was so sweet with them. He shared his snacks with everyone there and had a conversation with our friend Derek in Korean (so sweet - his face lit up when someone could really speak Korean to him).

The introduction to the car seat did not go very well though and we just decided to do what we had to do to get home. I held him in my lap and we just prayed if we got pulled over the officer would understand, but we didn't have any problems.

He loves his siblings. They have been playing and laughing and having a great time (they love him so much). He started calling my husband Mommy and Daddy in Korean and he loves seeing all his pictures in our house (believe it made him feel more at home). He loves animals and him and the dog seem to understand each other (he can put her in her place and she is a big dog). He put a snack in his mouth yesterday to get the dog to kiss him (so no fear).

I just wish we could put all he has done on this post, but there is so much. He is an amazing little boy who has the best heart - so kind and loves to share. He is also so quiet. Yesterday we took him out for the first time for some groceries and he finally accepted the car seat (a little crying but then he was like let's go). He loved being in the grocery cart. That trip really helped me see that I can get out with 3 kids and survive (yes, Brian was with me on this trip, but at 1 point he walked away and we were alone - it was doable).

He has really started to bond with me - which is awesome (when you have waited for this child for 14+ months). He looks for me and when I'm not there he gets really upset. Bottom line, we are so glad he is in our lives - Korea taught me a lot and Jacob is teaching me tons. We will miss Korea and can't wait to go back to see his foster family in hopefully 5 years. We are still eating Korean and did find out that he loves pizza tonight (he wanted a whole piece to himself. We all love him so much and can't wait to watch him grow (God has special plans for this little guy - he is our miracle number 3)! We are now a family of 5 - feels so good to finally have everyone here and safe.

Day 3

2012-09-05T15:46:00.001-07:00

Once again we made the most out of our time learning about Jacob's homeland. We started our day at Gyeongbokgung Palace. This place was amazing! You cannot put into words how wonderful this was to see and how large it was. For $3 each and we had so much fun seeing a structure that was built in the 1300s. We met a Korean History professor, he was so excited to meet Americans who were interested in the history of the Palace. We really enjoyed speaking to him. It took quite an effort to break away :)

We also got to see the changing of the guard - it was amazing to watch the detail the men put into this event.

Brian with a Palace guard - needs a hat.

Next we sent to Seoul Tower. You want to use the cable car (otherwise it is a very very long walk to the tower). We had a wonderful time getting to see all of Korea from the top of the tower and also putting Jacob's lock at the tower.

One view from the top of the tower

Jacob's Lock

We finished up the day at Seoul Station/Lotte Mart for some dinner and shopping. Once again we had a wonderful traditional Korean meal. The Korean people really take pride in their food preparation. This meal was similar in style and presentation to the more expensive meal at the Museum (for a fraction of the cost). We have been spoiled by Korean food.

Later at Seoul Station we had a Korean pastor approach us and hand us a gospel track. We talked for 30 minutes or so. He was so excited to hear of our faith experience and how similar our worldviews were. He was part of a group starting a church in the downtown metro area. It was a great conversation. So cool to see how God allows people to cross our paths to encourage us. He was very pleased to hear we were adopting little Jacob Cho.

We are so amazed there is no waste in South Korea (there are no trash cans in the streets). That sounds unusual, but they recycle everything (I mean everything)!!! There are bins for plastic, food, paper, cans, glass and vinyl. We have much to learn here. If you don't want to recycle you have to buy a special bag at the convenience store for 'other' trash. It is not cheap. In practice this encourages people to reuse as much as possible. More on this later. It really made an impression. We absolutely love this country - so clean, so easy to get around for little of nothing via subway, and the people are so quiet and sweet and helpful. This is a trip we will always remember and be sure to share our experience with Jacob.

Recycling bins (you carry your trash until you find one of these bins)

Day two...

2012-09-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

It's actually the beginning of day three - but we were wiped out last night after a lot of walking and tons of RAIN. We were caught in what felt like a monsoon on the way back to the hotel (shoes, pants soaked even with our umbrellas). Before I go into detail of day 2, below is a video from our first meeting with Jacob:

And a pic of him playing with Brian:

We started the day by heading to the National Museum of Korea. The Museum was massive and amazing (pictures cannot even do it justice, which is ok as they wouldn't let you take them inside). We loved the Pagoda Garden that was outside. It was such a relaxing walk and the craftsmanship amazing.

Other things on the walk included some of the following pictures below:

A sweet Japanese couple took our picture and we in turn took theirs

Thought this was interesting - an outside gym in the middle of the garden

The museum is a must see - didn't post any pictures but you get a lot info about the culture and their heritage - plus there is an amazing authentic Korean restrurant in the Museum (food was amazing).

Next, we headed out to see Cheonggyecheon Stream. This is suppose to be a relaxing area to walk, but due to the rain starting they had it closed to the public (below is a picture):

After leaving Cheonggyecheon Stream we went to Namdaemun Market for some shopping. I picked Jacob up some Pororo Peguin cars to play with and me some comfy $7 shoes.

As you can see - just about whatever you might want (fabric, clothing, shoes, toys, meats, etc). It was amazing to see how many little shops were in this area.

Upon leaving Namdaemun, we headed to Shinsegae Department Store (which was a good place to go during what we thought might me just a little rain). Shinsegae was amazing. It's a very high end department store with a full grocery on the bottom level. They had all the luxury brands - Prada, Gucci, Coach, etc.

The funny thing is when we left Shinsegae to try to go back to our hotel, we got caught in this loop that became so not funny by the time we finally found the subway system. We entered what we thought was a subway entrance to only be caught up in more underground shopping. The subways are Very deep underground...

Finally, we past by the world cup stadium on the way home.

So now we start day 3. Off to see Gyeongbok Palace and Seoul Tower. More to come - we love, love, love Jacob's homeland. The people are so nice here and the food is great. Tomorrow is the huge day when he leaves foster mom to go home with us... We are so excited and so nervous.

We are here!!!

2012-09-03T17:35:00.003-07:00

Yesterday was such a sweet moment we had been anticipating for months and months. After a long long flight, we arrived here at 10pm on a Sunday night. We love, Seoul! The people are so polite and very helpful. The city is super clean - even the subways and taxis are amazingly clean. It is unbelievable how clean everything is here! The flight was not awful. Outside of flying first class, not sure anything should have been much better. We flew United Airlines so we had a couple of stops (which was nice) as it broke up the trip a bit. The food on the flight was better than expected and it felt like they fed us all the time. We watched Men in Black 3, The Avengers, Mirror Mirror, What to Expect When Your Expecting, and Dark Shadows. Tokyo was a great stop - purchased some amazing chocolate and got some Yen for the kids as keepsakes. I use to think German chocolate was the best, but I have changed my mind after visiting Tokyo - they have great chocolates! Amazing - it just melts in your mouth and everywhere else too.

Little store in the Tokyo airport

We arrived in Seoul after 10pm local time (later than expected we we were delayed). We breezed through immigration and had a driver waiting for us. This was nice as we probably didn't have the mental capacity left to figure out how to get to the hotel on our own. We crashed hard in the room for just a few short hours and then it was time for the day we had waited for - to meet our son Jacob. Brian had intended to take the subway and had the route all planned out - but the concierge at the hotel gave very different transfer directions and we lost confidence and decided to opt for a taxi. We had no margin of error so we grabbed a taxi. The driver spoke no yeong-eo, so we got across we needed to go Hongik University which was nearby our destination (Eastern Social Welfare Services). There was a security checkpoint at the entrance and our driver was not going to be denied. He and the guard had a very spirited conversation with Brian in the middle, but finally he just let us out. Which the help of GPS we quickly found Eastern.

Waiting to enter the building!

As we entered, they directed us to a little cafe and we filled out a few more papers got our official immigration packet for Jacob (they were emphatic that we were not allowed to open no matter what). Their cafe was great - I had a blueberry latte and Brian had a mocha. Then the moment we had waited for - all kinds of emotions, will he like us, will he respond to us, what will it be like...

Jacob!!!

He greeted us by bowing then we proceeded to play, play, play and we talked to his foster mom (we all sat on the floor near his foster mom - which seemed to help let him accept us and his foster mom kept stressing we were his Mommy and Daddy). He is so sweet, strong, and super smart for his age (we were so shocked at his language skills). He loves spicy food and cars. He let me catch him on the slide and Brian played with him in a little car. We all played kitchen (was such a special sweet time)!

Brian and Jacob playing with the little car - we have to get one of this when we get home (I'm thinking birthday present when we get home)!!!

Me and Jacob playing kitchen (his foster mom in the foreground - a sweet sweet woman who will forever be part of Jacob's story).

Overall a great meeting! His foster mom was very interested that I had been cooking Korean dishes and she seemed to really like us. Now we are off today to enjoy the country and learn more about his homeland. We will next meet (and finally leave) with him on Thursday.

Headed to Korea!

2012-09-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

As I write we are waiting to board our flight to Tokyo and then to Seoul. We are so excited! In less than 24 hrs we will meet Jacob for the first time. We will post more soon.