Our life is nothing short of an adventure...

Wind in our hair and screams of delight but also unpredictable turns and unknown outcomes. We are a family of six; Dave, Susie, Nate, Jake, Sam, and Bella.

God has been faithful in our marriage and through the birth and blessings of our boys.

God has been faithful during our adoption journey and united Bella with us in May of 2008. We were privileged to visit with Bella's birth mother; therefore, Bella's family in Guatemala will always be dear to our hearts.

On October 16, 2008, Bella was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia. We are now battling the disease with 2 years and 3 months of treatment. We believe God will continue to be faithful!

Our family is committed to living life to the fullest...even on the hard days. Thank you for checking in and journeying with us!


Monday, April 28, 2008

Standing in His Glory!!!!





This is why we wait on God! She's amazing!!! It's as if we have always had her. We arrived in Guatemala yesterday around 11:30 am. We over slept and got to the airport 1 hour before our flight left but got right on. We spent the afternoon relaxing at the pool and visiting our friends Cheri and Donnie and sweet Malaena! This morning, we were taken to our daughter at 8:30 am. She was sound asleep in her crib, I scooped her right up, she looked at me and settled right in to my shoulder. Bella is smaller than I anticipated...her pictures made her look so big. Her 12 month old cloths are too big on her, she is very snuggly and sweet, loves to look at everything, very attached to Mama and responds great to Dave. She only cries when she's hungry or tired. She loves kids and tonight was smiling at everyone that looked at her. Were totally in love and awed. We miss the boys, but are so grateful for the gift of having this one on one time with her after the 8 month wait. Thank you Lord, your timing was perfect, your plan unimaginable. "The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eye's" Here are some photos of today. Enjoy!

11 comments:

Momma said...

OHHHHH!!!! Your little ladybug is just too cute.
Enjoy!!!!

Angie

The Jeltema's said...

Bella is ADORABLE!! oh my goodness, we are so happy to see these photo's!
Can't wait to meet her in person...

PS said...

So glad to see the pictures and see you all together! Oh my goodness, felt like I was in LABOR all day today, waiting to see your precious! Praises and gladness dance all around! Love, Pam

Sandra said...

She is absolutely beautiful. What an addition to your family! We look forward to seeing the three of you with open arms. Congratulations.

Tiff said...

Yeah! I'm so glad I checked again before going to bed. Can't wait to show her cousins in the morning. ENJOY, ENJOY, ENJOY!!!!
love tiff

Gail said...

Bella is beautiful!!! I'm glad you arrived safe and sound and that Bella is doing well.
Gail

Trish said...

God has been faithful and I praise Him for answering the prayers of your heart! Bella's world will be filled with love and wonder when she is with her family...the boys will ensure her adventure and protection! I have tears of joy as I look at the pictures. Thank you for sharing! Can't wait till your all under one roof!

Mary Ann said...

Oh Susie!!!!! She is just beautiful! I couldn't wait to see your pictures!! May God Bless you and your new little angel! I pray your trip finishes smoothly!!!!

Love,
Mary Ann

The Marvins said...

Oh my goodness...she is beautiful!!! I am sitting here with tears in my eyes, she is just darling! The boys yesterday, afterschool just sealed the deal, in that this is the luckiest little girl. They were all smiles, giggles, and just joyful to get her too! Susie, you are radiant and I can't wait to see you again....and your new addition. The PRINCESS!!! :) Love you!

Mary Vukic said...

I can't wait to meet this beautiful girl.

Did she say "hola?"

Cheri said...

Thanks for letting us meet sweet Bella today! I loved our time together, and will forever treasure the memories. See you at the embassy! love, Cheri