Libi Faith - Jia Qi

New Blog!

2009-12-31T16:47:00.001-08:00

We have moved to one blog...
www.arnoldfamily7.blogspot.com
see you there!

LIBI IS CRAWLING!

2009-11-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

He is the Healer!!!!!

We are rejoicing to see our sweet girl hit this amazing milestone!! Libi began crawling last night. Home for a year and a half...this is just one miracle of so many that the Lord has accomplished in this amazing girl! As Joel said earlier tonight...Wow, a year and a half ago she couldn't even hold her head up! Our Great God...You are Mighty!

I cannot share this accomplishment without sharing the prayer of one little 7 year old girl, Paige. This little prayer warrior has prayed that Libi would crawl to her sister, Haddie Hope when she comes home. Well, let me tell you...we are leaving to bring Haddie home on the 4th of December and I am guessing that Libi will have worked up some speed by that point. What a day that will be! Faith of a child, folks...faith of a child. Miss Paige, you have taught this mama MUCH about PRAYING BELIEVING!

2009-10-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

Just a few pics to catch up on what has been happening here. Libi is getting up on her knees and pulling up...not onto her feet, YET. She is such a JOY! We aren't positive but it seems that she may have had the H1N1 virus and she seems to finally be on the mend from that.

My oldest son, Jacob, went to his first homecoming dance. He is so blessed to be in a Christian school with kids he has known for most of his life. These kids had a blast! It was like a big family getting together for a party. He had such a great time. I am so proud of that kid! I affectionately refer to him as my "man-child"...

NEW MOON FESTIVAL and new journeys

2009-10-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

It has been a little crazy around the Arnold house. Not that there is anything new there, but there really has not been a lot of time for blog updates. Currently God has led us to bring Joel and Jack home for their education so this has created a little more craziness in our home.

Joel and Jack both have learning disabilities and have struggled in school. We have agonized over their education and learning for many years. We are so thankful for the Lord's clear calling to us. The changes that we have seen in the boys and in our home are amazing and we are excited for what lies ahead.

I get excited when the Lord sets a new path before me, especially one that involves something I've said I WOULD NEVER DO! Don't get me wrong; it is not ALL excitement. I have had my moments of shear terror! His calling us to home school reminds me of the feelings I had when He first brought our sweet Libi to us. Why do you think Libi's middle name is Faith? We felt great excitement, but also felt that we were not equipped.

I am doing this Bible study right now and we are looking at the life of King David. He was anointed by the Lord for His purpose that was not just about God's plan, but about God's people. Not even David's own father felt that David would be the one that God had chosen...but he was!

"How can I-how can we-walk confidently into situations we feel ill-equipped to handle? How will we stand on the platforms to which God has called us and face the crowd in our lives without shame over who we are and without fear about our ability to accomplish the task? We must come to our situations knowing that God equips for his purpose those He calls."
-Priscilla Shirer

"It is not that we are qualified to do ANYTHING on our OWN. Our qualification comes from God." 2 Corinthians 3:5

Priscilla goes on to say in the study:
"What the Lord calls, He establishes. That is: He brings into existence and assures the ability for the outcome to fulfill Hes purposes and plans. When God establishes a person for a specific purpose, as He did in David's cast, He secures, equips, and fortifies the person called so that he or she is fully capable of performing the task at hand."

So once again we stand with great faith that this is God's and He has a great plan for all of us in this new journey!

NEW MOON FESTIVAL

Brad was out of town last weekend with some guys celebrating his 40th b-day on the "greens". Yes, Brad will be 40 on Thursday! Anyway, while he was away I had the ladies and their kids to the house to celebrate the NEW MOON FESTIVAL. This is a Chinese holiday that can be compared to our Thanksgiving in many ways. It is about togetherness and harmony. The highlight was making lanterns and eating moon cakes. We had a great time! I couldn't help but wonder if our sweet Haddie Hope Jie was celebrating in China.

School Days!

2009-08-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I have almost survived the day that I thought would be the end for me. My oldest boy started High School and my baby girl went to school.

We dropped Jacob off at school first. Jake is attending Cornerstone Christian Academy, a private school that he has attended since 4 years of age. So, it was not as traumatic taking him to the same place he has been going to for years. The familiar helped this mama a lot. He looked so big going into the building. I thought of him 10 years ago when I dropped him off for the first time and I pulled around the corner and sobbed and called my mom! Funny how after ten years of first days for him I still felt like doing the same thing today. My sweet hubby came with me today. I don't think he held the same sentiments about the day as I did, but he was aware that his wife would be in great need of moral support or a 911 call today.

After we dropped Jacob off Libi extremely vocal in the back. I could tell she was trying to communicate something. I thought that she just wanted a drink. It wasn't long before we realized that she needed the restroom. We stopped at a gas station and cleaned her up and I was praising God for the extra pair of bloomers in her diaper bag that worked just fine with her "first day of school outfit".

When we got to Libi's school and I pulled her out of her seat, I locked my arms around her and sobbed. I told Brad I didn't think I could do it. He reassured me, and we put her in her chair and wheeled her up to the teachers and other children. Needless to say, it was a long good-bye. I had to get her out of her chair just one more time and then we left.

I felt like I couldn't breathe! My hubby helped get myself pulled together. So thankful for him!
I came home and got busy with my "to do" list. It was a very productive 2 hours and then I FLEW out the door to get my girl.

Libi had a great day today. She was very excited when I picked her up. She had so much to tell me. Her teacher said her favorite thing today was pushing the cars and trucks. I was hoping for something more "girly". It sounds crazy, but I felt like she already changed and grew up so much in just this one day. I cannot imagine what the Lord is going to do in her this school year.

Thank you to all my dear friends who supported me with texts and prayers today. You are more than a blessing in my life!

Tupperware Girl

2009-08-26T11:10:00.001-07:00

Libi Playing in Tupperware for the first time

Can I tell you how many times I was aggravated by the mess of Tupperware strewn about my kitchen? Well, I now have a knew and better perspective for this situation. I give thanks for little hands and bodies that can open cabinets and drag things out. I was so thrilled to allow Libi the opportunity to explore this cabinet, sitting up on her own and reaching in. I cannot wait until the Lord strengthens her body the the extent that she can toddle over to it on her own two feet and whip that cabinet open and go crazy!!! For now, I rejoice in this, for one year ago this would have been an impossible task for my baby girl.

Connecting the dots...

2009-08-13T21:18:00.000-07:00

Have you ever sat back and connected the dots on events in your life and been totally amazed! God has chosen to reveal a little more of this amazing tapestry of Libi Faith.

So, go back with me to April of 2006.

Brad and I were “fresh into” this journey of adoption. God had moved our hearts to surrender to Him and adopt. We had just been licensed for foster care and we were waiting for a call for our first placement. I was imagining that it would be a baby that we would adopt and call our own.

Toward mid April we were asked to take in a unwed expectant young lady, Mandy, as many of you know. There was not much to consider when we were called about Mandy. Brad and I had many conversations about taking in an unwed mother, so we felt that God had prepared us.

I had a dream weeks before we received this phone call about Mandy. In my dream Brad and I were outside a delivery room and had a dark skinned, dark haired babe in our arms. There was a girl with long blonde hair in the delivery bed. After I had the dream I shared it with Brad. I was more intrigued about the baby than I was the girl in the bed. I assumed the girl in the delivery bed had to be my sister in law because I did not know any blonde women that we would be in the delivery room with.

A couple of weeks later I received my first email and pictures of Mandy. The first picture I saw sent me to the floor with shouts and tears. I had seen this girl before, Mandy was the girl in my dream! I had never had a specific vision like this before in my life.

I wondered and prayed that Mandy’s baby might be our child. I began to imagine a girl, I think because that baby in my vision seemed to be a girl.

So, how does this tie in with Libi? The day I saw the pictures and read the verses that follow was the day that Libi Faith was born in China! There was a strong desire in my heart for a baby, and the beginnings of a desire for a daughter. These are the verses that were in my journal that day:

Job 33:13-15

13 Why do you complain to him
that he answers none of man's words?

14 For God does speak—now one way, now another—
though man may not perceive it.

15 In a dream, in a vision of the night,
when deep sleep falls on men
as they slumber in their beds,

so...who was the dark haired babe? It was our foster daughter, Ari. We did not know that our arms would only hold her briefly to prepare us for one we would hold forever. The vision of 2 girls that were preparing me for THE ONE GIRL, born that very day! UNBELIEVABLE!!!! Thank You, God, for revealing this piece of the journey, You are AMAZING!

Libi's Eye Surgery

2009-07-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today Libi had eye surgery. She has what they call epiblepheron. Yes, that is a mouthful! Say it 3 times fast. Anyway, her bottom lashes on her right eye grow toward her eye rather than away from it. This has caused pretty frequent tearing for her and it was starting to cause damage to the eye. We had a WONDERFUL doctor who took care of Libi today. Her expertise was a true gift from God!

Libi was so good. Her sweet, content spirit amazes me. It rook them 40 minutes to get an IV in the poor girl! It is quite a challenge to find a vein on this girl! She was signing "all done" after her surgery for about an hour.

Here is the crazy thing. In spite of her wiped out state physically. She has stayed fairly dry today with 4 successful trips to the potty. The last 2 trips were initiated by her. We have a sign for potty and it seems to be working well. She enjoys her reward of 2 chocolate chips when she is successful!

Pray for continued healing of her eye! Blessings to all of you for blessing us with your prayers!!!

Wonder Woman!

2009-07-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

These are just some pictures of Libi working hard at Easter Seals. A sweet friend made her little Red, White, and Blue dress...so ADORABLE! I felt she was a little "Linda Cater"ish on this day. :)

LIBI ON THE BIG GIRL POTTY!!!!!!

2009-07-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

CRAZY RIGHT!? Oh, I am beside myself tonight. This girl amazes me. There is so much that she gets that I do not give her credit for. I cannot even begin to imagine all that she is soaking in. Last night when I was getting Libi ready for bed I asked her if she wanted to sit on the big girl potty like mama. She shook her head "yes" and signed "more". So, I took her in and sat her on the potty. She thought that was the funniest thing to sit on the potty! I told Brad about it and we asked her tonight if she would like to do it again and her response was the same as the night before. So, I took her in and sat her down. I began to encourage her and she made a little grunt and furrowed her brow and she did it! She peed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Call me crazy, but that girl knew what she did and she was PROUD!

I cannot tell you how God will do things in this girl on a daily basis to give us hope for even MORE than we have seen so far.

I don't think I will ever rejoice more over a child peeing as I am tonight!!!! Praise songs and praise dancing in the Arnold 1/2 bathroom!

Look what Libi can do!!

2009-07-06T10:09:00.001-07:00

We BELIEVE God to be Libi's HEALER!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lady Bugs!!

2009-07-05T18:01:00.000-07:00

These are my sweet friend, and neighbor's little girls with Libi. My neighbor made them matching little dresses and we tried to get a picture of them. It was too cut to not post them all. We just crack up at their faces! How fun it will be to add Haddie into the mix of these 3!

I love my Daddy and my Daddy loves me!

2009-06-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

In honor of the most fabulous father...My sweet husband Brad! I had to share these pics. Libi and her Daddy have these little love fests that make me sick. The sweetness that these two share is something to see!

I am so thankful for my husband who not only embraces the heart of adoption but also has embraced this sweet treasure of a girl...Libi Faith Jia Qi. It is hard to express how wonderful it feels to share the deep joy of this little girl with the one I love. Only you and your spouse love your children with the same pride and warmth. I am blessed to share the JOY of my children with such a wonderful man!

Catching Up!

2009-06-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Enjoying some R&R at the Wilderness Resort!

Loves balloons!

Libi meets her new friend Lydia!

Libi is sitting by me just pounding away on her xylophone. She is doing so well with her sitting. She has begun to use her legs to turn herself around while she is sitting. She loves to be "walked". It is difficult to hold her hands above her head and walk her because her upper body is still so weak. We just support her under her arms and she will walk away! She loves to go up stairs as well. I know this makes her feel like such a big girl. It seems like every day she grows more animated. Today she was laying on the floor just giggling at me. There is nothing like the joy I feel when Libi laughs out loud!

She is really enjoying the pool this year. She LOVES to be in the water! It is very motivating for her to use that sign for "more".

We continue to watch these changes in her and stand in amazement at the miracle in this little girl. I will try really hard to post some video of her doing some of her latest accomplishments. It really is a delight to watch her!

Brad and I began our Chinese language lessons last night in preparation for Haddie. Libi found a new best friend in our Chinese tutor. We have never seen Libi be so conversational. She had so much to tell this young lady. It was really sweet. Will try to get some video of that as well.

Libi was kicked out of the movie theatre this week. It was a strange experience for me. We were watching the movie "Up". If you have not seen this movie, there are a lot of balloons in it. Combine balloons with big screen animation and you have one very excited little Libi! I hear Libi verbalize with excitement so often it is no different to me than any other child expressing their excitement. Well, to someone else in the theatre that day it was a disruption. Their intolerance offended me. I explained to the individual that my daughter was mentally handicapped. She replied curtly with an, "oh".

As I have processed this incident it has made me think how many times I am intolerant. Intolerant of the person who is driving too slow when I am late. Intolerant of the neighbor who visits too long. Intolerant of my children who walk heavy footed down the stairs. Do you get the picture? Then, how do I handle those situations? Do I approach them selfishly? Most of the time, yes. I look at how the situation is affecting me and tend to not allow any room for grace, patience, "Christ likeness". So as ugly as it seemed to me that someone would kick a handicapped child out of the movies it is no different than the ugly that I display on a daily basis when I am intolerant. My ugly behavior is still ugly behavior. I just tend to excuse mine. God willing this will open my eyes to this for more than just a millisecond!!

Again, just more lessons that I learn from my sweet Libi! She is a tool that God has used and continues to use to cut away so many rough edges in me. How thankful I am for this little girl!

Mother's Day one year later

2009-05-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

It is really hard to put words on my heart today. How do I even begin to describe the life change that was birthed into my arms a year ago through my precious Libi Faith Jia Qi.

I go back in my mind and revisit the day...

Butterflies were not even the word for what I felt in my stomach that morning. I physically shook ALL day! The peace that God brought just before we went to meet our little girl was amazing. We were in our hotel room and prayed with our sweet friends the Braniff's, who were about to meet their daughter as well. I was so aware of the life change that was about to take place for my little girl, but so unaware of the life change that was about to take place in me. I was looking out the window of our room when I saw a woman step out of a car with a little girl cradled in her arms. She was in pink, and she had pink shoes. I could not see her face, just enough to see it was a girl, and KNEW it had to be my precious Libi! I recorded this scripture passage in my journal:

And you (Zhang Jia Qi) will be called by a NEW name (Libi Faith Jia Qi Arnold) Which the mouth of the Lord has designated. You will also be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. it will no longer be said to you, "Forsaken", nor to your land will it any longer be said, "Desolate"; but you (Libi Faith) will be called, "My delight is in her."

Isaiah 62:2-4

The phone rang and we were told, "Your girl is here." I think I pretty much sprinted to the elevator. I was in that room so fast Brad did not have time to give video instruction to our friends. It was unbelievable to lay eyes on my daughter in the flesh for the first time. How beautiful she was! That sweet creamy white skin of hers, and those big brown eyes. Looking back on it now I see how stressed she was! She was very verbal, making noises...not like we have ever heard her do since. She was also arching her back a lot and just very stiff and rigid.

I remember the directors of her orphanage watching me with her and whispering back and forth. I am confident that there was concern in the room. The concern being that we would choose to abandon the adoption. There are a lot of reasons we know this now, but let me tell you, that thought, NEVER entered our minds! Was Libi how we "expected" her to be? No. The reality of her delays and challenges were overwhelming. Did I think I could handle it? No. Would it be easy for our family or for our children? No. The truth is, she was my daughter. I loved her. She was chosen for us and I have a Heavenly Father that thoroughly equips me for every good work He calls me to. He hadn't just called me to be her mama, He had created me for it!

We were very unaware at that time that many orphans are twice abandoned. This is something that I think I will always wrestle with and always advocte on behalf of. Who are we to "choose"? I will be the first to admit that in this world of adoption there are areas of control that can be very dangerous. Areas where we are tempted to choose under the thought process of what we can handle, what we want, and at times, what we think will be easy. I believe we can take those areas of control and make our checklist and ask God to work within it. I can't be silent on this issue, simply because we feel so strongly that so many of these twice abandoned children are the greatest abandoned blessings of peoples lives!

Yesterday, I was out to eat with my parents for Mother's Day. It was a very nice place to eat, linen table clothes...a place of elegance that women enjoy. There was a mom at a table across from me with her special needs son. My guess is that he was probably in his 30's. He was non-verbal and unable to feed himself. The sweet communication at that table was overwhelming nothing could be heard in spoken word, but yet, SO much was being said! That mother sat there and spoon fed her son and they exchanged smiles. She would wipe his mouth and speak so sweetly to him. You could tell that he loved his mama, but more than that...how much that mama loved her BOY!!!! I share this because, a year ago I would not have taken in that scene with the same emotion. I would have felt compassion for that mother, had a since of pity, I would have felt thankful that my children were all "healthy". What I sat there and KNEW was that mother has experienced more pride and joy over that boy than she could ever verbalize. I KNEW how thankful and blessed she felt.

Libi Faith, you have given your mama new eyes to see this world with, you have healed my heart, and I adore you, sweet girl!

Jacob, Joel and Jack, I would be a miss to not mention how my heart celebrates you today. You are such great blessed gifts to this mama! My dream to be a mother was realized in you Jacob, and you gave me something to love and care for apart from myself. That was a life change that was very necessary for me. Now, you have grown into a young man and I wish I could freeze time so that you would NEVER leave me! You exhibit more maturity at the age of 14 than I did at the age of 21 when I gave birth to you. I am thankful for you! Joel, you have been a joy to mother. You're hugs and words of love that you speak to me, make me melt, but more than that, the love that you have for your sister touches my heart so deeply. I am proud of you! Jack, there is no one in this world that makes me laugh like you do. You have been so easy. You have such a compliant spirit that blesses my heart. You are quick to serve and that is a quality that I continue to watch grow and I know the Lord will use. I am blessed by you! I am crazy about you 3, you are my BOYS, my MEN!! You made being a mama of boys so wonderful I never desired to have girls. :) You are a JOY! I love you with all my heart...

and Haddie???? well you will just have to read her blog. :)

http://www.haddiehope.bolgspot.com/

A Moment

2009-05-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

Have you heard that song by Steven Curtis Chapman?

catch it on youtube here if you want
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rResKXjKqjQ

It's time for letting go
All of our "if onlies"
Cause we don't have a time machine

And even if we did
Would we really want to use it
Would we really want to go change everything

Cause we are who and where and what we are for now
And this is the only moment we can do anything about

So breathe it in and breathe it out
And listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment

There's only One who knows
What's really out there waiting
And all the moments yet to be
And all we need to know
Is He's out there waiting
To Him the future's history

And He has given us a treasure called right now
And this is the only moment we can do anything about

So breathe it in and breathe it out
And listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment

And if it brings you tears
Then taste them as they fall
Let them soften your heart

And if it brings you laughter
Then throw your head back
And let it go
Let it go, yeah
You gotta let it go

And listen to your heartbeat

And breathe it in and breathe it out
And listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment

And breathe it in and breathe it out
And listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now (here and now)
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle
Of the moment

There's a wonder in the here and now. It's right there in front of you. And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment.

I had one of these moments the other night. Our boys finally received their Christmas present! When you order a basketball hoop in the middle of the winter it can be a LONG wait. The hoop was finally installed the other night. The boys were all home and they all had an unusual amount of homework that night. We had been talking to them about finishing the year well at school and they have really started to put forth great effort. I could see how anxious they were to just get out on the driveway and begin to shoot around, but not one of them asked me for a break. Of course, this mama told them to go out and enjoy it! Libi and I were up in her room watching her big brothers break in the basketball hoop. It was a glorious evening outside!! Libi could hardly contain her excitement watching the boys from her bedroom window. The boys would toss the ball up in the air right past her window and she would clap and squeal with delight. It was one of those moments as a mom, when you feel so very blessed. I just had to step back and let the Lord know that I do not deserve these awesome kids! They are a joy and delight to me. Then, I thought about this sweet blessing waiting for all of us in China...another blessing I have yet to meet...OVERWHELMING!

So, I encourage you today, what is it in your day today that is just a little sweet moment that is loaded with so much blessing that you need to stop and breathe it in? Do it, stop, thank your Maker and King who blesses you with every good and perfect gift in your life.

Happy Birthday Libi - Part 3

2009-05-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know this is getting a little carried away, but I think 3 posts for a 3rd birthday is just fine, don't you?

We had the JOY of celebrating Libi's b-day with family this last weekend. It was a great celebration of this sweet little girl that has changed our lives! She enjoyed the party. her day started with some roses from her daddy. She was more impressed with them than we thought she would be. She kept smiling and grabbing them. She even pulled the whole vast over on herself...that was fun! She enjoyed opening her presents. This was a first. She has had presents before, but not really tried to pull paper or pay much attention to what it was. This time she was practicaly putting her whole body into those gift bags, trying to pull out the prize inside. I do beleive the highlight of the day was the cake. With Libi, this is no surprise. The girl just loves food, and she especialy loves sweets!

It was very emotional to celebrate this "first" with Libi. To be with her on such a special day for the first time was so wonderful. We are quickly approaching our one year anniversary of the day she was birthed into our arms. It seems like it wasn't that long ago, yet I feel that she has always been with me. I will never get over the wonder of adoptive love. Stay tuned for a post on May 12th!!!

Happy Birthday- part 2

2009-04-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

Well, my birthday princess is in her bed after falling asleep in her mama's arms. I have been doing some intentional bonding time with Libi at night and it has been such a gift! She and I have this little "routine". For the last week she has been going to sleep in my arms at night and it has been wonderful for her and for me! Tonight she was actually crying and reaching for me. She has never protested like this before. I believe it was because she was tired and she was counting on me to help her meet that need. It is amazing to look into her sweet face and feel like I have been staring at it for years! From the moment we first saw her she seemed familiar to us. My heart rejoices over the greatness of God and His ways.

We had a full and fun day! I think Libi was getting into the birthday thing. We were on our way for Chinese tonight, but every time we asked Libi what she wanted to eat she told us, "umgeger"...which in Libi language is HAMBERGER! This has been her new word and she uses it frequently. It seemed more appropriate to take her to the place famous for "umgegers", Steak-N-Shake! Which incidentally was one of my first words as a baby (teack-n-nake) :) Think what you want, but my girl and I just like a good burger I guess. It is great to hear intentional language from her. Most everything is with a "g" sound at this point, but we are told that is the typical verbal pattern in a child. So, we are praying for the "d's" to come next!

Anyway, the highlight of the night was Libi's doll. She opened a little Asian Corelle doll. It looks a lot like Libi. She was very excited about it. She kept pulling the box to her face to get a better look. She kept smiling at the doll. Then daddy took the doll to set it free from it's box and Libi was not happy about that! She gave us some complaining. It was really sweet. We had never seen her care about a toy like that. She did not want anyone else to touch it once she had it in her possession. It was another glimpse of true toddler in our little Libi.

We give thanks to God for all that He is doing in this little girl!!! What a joy and blessing she is to us!!!!

Happy Birthday Princess Libi! Part 1

2009-04-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today is sweet Libi's 3rd birthday!!!! We may have overwhelmed her this morning with the camera and the singing, but how can you contain the excitement of sharing a birthday "first" with your little girl?

I am overcome with emotion today. I am so blessed and so changed by the miracle of Libi Faith. She is a joy! She has given me a totally new view of the world. She works so hard to accomplish the smallest tasks. Make sure you look back later for Part 2 to get a glimpse of what Libi is doing now! :) Today we celebrate the wonderful gift of Libi Faith's life. Thank you God for such a magnificent work of Your Mighty Hand!!

A Glorious Easter

2009-04-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share some pictures from our weekend. We had a great weekend of celebrating Jesus and His gift of NEW LIFE!!

SPRING BREAK

2009-03-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

This last week we headed out for a week of relaxation. Unfortunaly the rain got the best of our beach days. Oh, and we couldn't go in the water because of the Portuguese Man o' War! These are poisonous jellyfish that can be deadly. There were literally thousands washed up on the shore each morning. We were blessed to spend time with family and friends though which made it all wonderful!

We spent a couple of days in Atlanta with Brad's family. We don't get to be all together much and it was a real gift to have that time. We had beautiful weather while we were there with them and celebrated Grandma's birthday. Love my in-laws!!

Then were blessed to spend time with the Braniff's in Orange Beach. We traveled with the Braniff's to China to get our girls. It was a divine appointment! God has given us a deep bond that is a true treasure. I joke with Lisa that we were in the delivery room together...we truely were. It was another reminder to me of how God has the most incredible timing! I never imagined that when we were leaving for China to be united with Libi that God would be giving us this gift of precious, lifelong friends. We love you Rob, Lisa and Izzy!!!

WHEN YOU BELIEVE...there can be MIRACLES

2009-03-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Mark 11:20-24

The next morning as they passed by the fig tree he had cursed, the disciples noticed it was withered from the roots.

Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the tree on the previous day and exclaimed, "Look, Teacher! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"

Then Jesus said to the disciples, "Have faith in God.

I assure you that you can say to this mountain, `May God lift you up and throw you into the sea,' and your command will be obeyed. All that's required is that you really believe and do not doubt in your heart.

Listen to me!

You can pray for anything, and if you believe, you will have it.

So today we received amazing news! Libi had many tests run while she was in the hospital, among them was an MRI. Brad and I made a deal that no matter what the results we would only believe the best for our daughter. Today, God delivered the most wonderful news to us...Libi's MRI showed NO ABNORMALITIES!!!!! I have to say that again...NO ABNORMALITIES!!!! She has a normal MRI!!!!!!!!!!! It is hard to even put words on our emotion. We have felt that long before Libi was birthed in our arms God was working miracles in this little girl. We press on with great FAITH that this is just a glimpse of what lies ahead. We have watched yet another great awakening in our little Libi since this last seizure episode. She is even more animated and engaged. She has been babbling non-stop! We are hearing all kinds of new sounds...her communication has been at it's best...MIRACULOUS!

My Wonderful Lord and Savior, You are the Giver of all life. You are so worthy of ALL GLORY! We praise You, we PRAISE YOU!! You are an undeniable God. How blessed we are to be a part of Your story. You accomplish all that You have planned. Everything that You do has order and purpose. I stand in amazement as I watch You accomplish your purposes in this little girl. May she be a vessel to show others of Your GREATNESS!! Bring the lost to Yourself and bring the found to a greater knowledge of who You are...How I delight in You, My God, My King!!!!!!

Cutie Pie!!

2009-03-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we had our sweet Alyssa watch the 3 youngest. She took some shots of Little Libi Love that were too adorable not to share...

photos by: Alyssa Garvin

2009-03-08T14:14:00.001-07:00

THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!!

MANY THANKS to each of you who helped raise funds for the family assistance program at Easter Seals! We are so overwhelmed by how many came on board with us this year. We have said so many times that we are incredibly blessed to have this resource for our daughter. They have given her SO much and this was an opportunity to give back. God has given her amazing people to come along side us on this great journey to her healing. We had a GREAT time celebrating and coming together. As you can see in the pic above, even Libi enjoyed herself!

2009-03-06T19:45:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately Libi went through another episode of seizures. On Tuesday she began to show signs of an infection, which for Libi seems to aggravate her seizure condition.

I found myself leaving her music class early trying to get to Walgreen's to get some medication in her before she became too ill. As I sat at the intersection about to turn, I "lost" her. I could see her eyes rolling back and she became unresponsive. So, what does a mom do? Well, the only thing I know how to do is cry out to the One who comes to my aid every time I need Him..."Jesus, help me!" Help me he did. He guided my van to the ER. Don't ask me how I got there. I really can't remember. :) Although I remember a car honking... Once inside it didn't go so well. This mama was screaming in the hallway for oxygen and demanding meds to be administered to stop the seizure after almost 20 minutes...not a good time in the ER.

Libi just couldn't pull out of this one. She battled with it for about 30 minutes. Once the medicine was administered she did better. They had to transport her to Children's Hospital in Peoria because they could not get her seizure under control. She did well in the ambulance, but once she arrived at Children's it became quite stressful. I was very thankful that we were there. The room was so jammed with Doctors that I could hardly see my baby. Libi was actively seizing and I could tell the situation was tense. They were talking about the Pediatric ICU and they were bringing in equipment to inti bate. I cannot tell you how thankful I was for the timing. God allowed her little body to sustain the trip in the ambulance. She was then in the best place and very capable hands...not that God's aren't the best! They were able to get her stabilized and the lead doctor from the PICU came to access her condition. He felt we could hold off on putting her in the PICU unless she began to seize again. She was then moved to an area where she could be closely monitored. There she was hooked up to million cords and wires! Quite the site! Little Libi was covered with little probes and wires all over her head, and then a gauze turban around it all. The wires all over her head were for an EEG, a test to watch her brain activity overnight. the bummer about this was, it made it very difficult to hold her. My arms just ached to rock her. The scary thing for me was that Libi had not been coherent since about 11:15 when her first seizure began. I so badly wanted her to open her eyes and recognize her mama. It wasn't until about 10:30 that night that she was back with me. It was brief, but just enough to allow me some sleep knowing that she was going to be okay. She just continued to improve from there. They ran a lot of tests and drew a lot of blood...how I hate IV's and blood draws! It took 12 people before we had success in getting blood from her. Needless to say, she is carrying a lot of war wounds! After a couple of nights in the hospital they felt she was doing well enough to come home. Right now, we understand that the seizure was likely brought on by a viral infection. We were given some medication that we can administer on our own should she begin to have a seizure again. We are still awaiting the results of her MRI.

Let me just tell you first and foremost TO GOD BE ALL GLORY! His perfection in timing is miraculous. I was only about an hour away from being on the interstate with Libi on our way to an appointment. He gave us divine appointments all along the way...people to tell of His love and share His great story that He is writing in Libi's life. The night before all of this happened He spoke to me through His word about fear. There really isn't a lot that brings fear to me like the fear that I experience when Libi is having a seizure. I am so fearful of losing her. Not just losing her to death, but losing her to more trauma to her little head. In these most recent moments of fear He gently reminded me...no matter what...HE WAS WITH ME...HE WOULD WORK IT ALL TOGETHER...IT WAS UNDER HIS AUTHORITY...IT WAS PLANNED...IT WAS PURPOSED! I am not sure if that makes sense, but I being streched to a new place of FAITH with my Libi FAITH. My hope and prayer is that this would be our last mother daughter journey down the "seizure road", but if not I will not fear because He is with me, He will strengthen me and help me and uphold me with His mighty right hand!!!

Pigtails, Walking, and playing Kitchen

2009-03-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

Just a quick slide show update on little Libi. She continues to make huge strides. These pics are over the last couple of weeks, but just haven't has a chance to update...ENJOY!!

Billboard Princess!!!

2009-02-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

So many of you have seen this already, but I wanted to make another PUSH for Easter Seals.

Why is Libi on a billboard??? Well, besides the fact that she is crazy cute...She receives services from Easter Seals and this is an advertisement for Easter Seals. Easter Seals has been one of our greatest support systems since we have arrived home with Libi. It was quite overwhelming when we arrived home. I wasn't quite sure what to do to help my daughter. I will never forget stepping into the lobby of Easter Seals and feeling like I could breathe again. I knew that I was not alone. It did not take long for me to see that I had a team of therapists who were just as passionate about my sweet daughter as I was. You may not understand the great resource that Easter Seals is to our community. It is a place that is dedicated to helping children and families attain a quality of life that otherwise would not be attainable. Libi receives help with her physical, feeding, speech, and occupational development. They have helped us with obtaining equipment to meet her developmental needs and taught me so much in how to encourage her development. Libi was assessed at a 4 month age level developmentally when we came home 9 months ago. After 6 months of therapy she had progressed to a 10-12 month age level developmentally. THIS IS HUGE!!! We give all the glory to God and praise Him for this great resource of Easter Seals.

9 Months ago...

TODAY!!!!

So...we ask that you click the button at the top right and consider making a donation...

HAPPY VALENTINE"S DAY

2009-02-14T06:33:00.000-08:00

Taken this morning...wow! Some serious Valentine's hair!!

Libi Loves her HEART cookies!!!

Praise you Jesus for ability to enjoy them all on her own!!!

Today I am once again overwhelmed by this great and glorious gift from God's heart to ours...LIBI LOVE! How we have had a glimpse of Our Great God and His adoptive ove for us through this little girl. Praying that each of you know the love of such a great and amazing God. Look around you today not at the blessing of those that love you, but those that you have the blessing of loving!!!!

Messy MIRACLE

2009-02-04T17:25:00.000-08:00

We've been praying and waiting a LONG time for this night! We have finally got it!!! The independent feeding took a HUGE turn tonight. Libi prefers to use her spoon. She has been working hard at it and started to get some successful independent bites this week, but tonight she GOT IT! It clicked!! We are so thankful for this work of God Almighty in our little Libi LOVE! Also this week she has made great strides with her ability to sit for long periods of time. She has hit the 10 minute mark! OVERWHELMED AND THANKFUL!

Libi Faith we are so proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy New Year! The year of the Ox

2009-01-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

Last year we celebrated the Chinese New Year without Libi.

It wasn't much, just some cake and Chinese food with good friends.

This year is much more "joyous", for our little Libi Love is home with us!

We enjoyed a party with little friends on Friday.

It amazes me that Libi has so many little friends from her home country of China.

We were also able to attend a celebration at Illinois State University and go out for Chinese with friends.

I still have SO much to learn about some of the traditions.

I did decorate more this year and, as of Saturday, know it is the

year of the Ox.

So, if you want to pass on fun ideas or traditions I would LOVE it!

We are planning on giving her a new outfit and "new" money in a red envelope.

We skipped the 8 course meal tonight.

It has been such a China weekend.
This morning the travel channel had a show on Beijing.
It made me so excited to go back! Our time in China was so wonderful.
We also attended a service to commission our sweet friend, Alyssa, to go serve in China.
She will be serving orphans in a foster home there.
Thoughts of this country are just consuming my mind and heart these days.

We are so honored to be the parents of this sweet little China girl

and HOPE the year of the Ox

will bring yet another China girl home to us.

We have great respect for the traditions and culture that belong to her.

With all that said...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

needing a MIRACLE

2009-01-16T14:04:00.000-08:00

I am asking you to join us in praying for our friends, the Semlows.

Please click on the link below to read their story.

They are coming up against a fierce battle to bring their

children home. I am asking to enlist you in the army

of boldly approaching the Throne of God's grace to release

these 3 children who are in orphan captivity.

http://semlowadoption.blogspot.com/

Job 23:13

"But he stands alone, and who can oppose him?

He does whatever he pleases."

Job 41:10

No one is fierce enough to rouse him.

Who then is able to stand against me?

What Joel has learned from Adopting...

2009-01-09T07:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a story that Joel wrote about our journey of adoption. It touched my heart deeply. Joel "feels" life to the depths of soul. He expresses himself so well in this story. I feel so many times that my kids teach me more than I teach them. It was so interesting to me to read his thoughts and feel his heart summed up in this story.

The perspective of Joel...

Simple, and True. Enjoy...

The Life Changing Experience of Adoption

One day God called our family to adopt, but we did not know the ups and downs on this great adventure. We would have never imagined that a girl we saw on the computer would go from China to our home in Illinois. We also did not know that a little girl that lived with us for a year and a half would have to leave us. In this process of adoption there have been hard, and easy, as well as sad, and happy times.

When my parents first talked to me and my brothers about adding to our family, I did not know what to think. I thought about how there could be a troublesome little boy living with us. There was also the chance it could be a nice girl or boy. In the end I was in favor of the decision.

When I first saw my very first sister, Ari, I ran downstairs and she smiled at me. This made me realize that I could love someone even if they were a stranger. I remember raising her as a part of my family. I even remember her first time walking; I was counting every step. People say she was a foster sister, but she is more than that; she is my real sister. The day she left was the hardest day of my life, though I am thankful for the time God gave me to be with her. Being a foster family is hard because it usually means saying goodbye, but what God had for our family next would be forever.

God led our family to adopt after Ari left because after having a kid for a little while we wanted a kid forever. One day my mom started looking on the internet for adoption agencies. She came across a place called “All God’s Children”. Then she read this verse: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” (James 1:27) On this site my mom saw a little girl all bundled up in pink named Mary. She was on a list of waiting children in China. This girl had a heart defect and was very delayed in her development. These problems caused her to be abandoned and unwanted.

A few days after we saw Mary and began to ask more questions about adopting her; we found out we had a friend who had worked in China at the very same foster home that Mary was in. This friend had pictures of Mary and knew all about her. Our family knew that this girl, out of the millions of orphans, was the one God choose for us. Her name became Libi Faith Jia Qi Arnold.

Before we were able to bring Libi home we had a lot of work to do. We had to fill out paperwork and send it to China. There were people that came and asked my family questions about ourselves. My parents, during this process talked about who would go on the trip to China to get Libi. We all agreed that my older brother, Jacob, was going with my parents while my younger brother, Jack and I stayed home. We found out after nine months when we could go to China and bring Libi home.

While my family was gone, my brother, Jack and I were by ourselves for two weeks. Everyday my parents had us open a present. At the end of each day my brother and I would talk to my parents on a webcam. The first three days we stayed at a friend’s house and we stayed with our grandparents at our house for the rest of the time.

The day my parents were coming back was great. My friend Nick, my brother, and I were getting out of school early to go to the airport in Chicago. My fifth grade class made a poster for me to take. The drive was long, but it was worth it. The plane was late, so no one knew when it would be back. Then someone yelled, “There they are!” Then, I saw my sister for the first time, and it was the best day of my life.

Now Libi is home with us and has improved so much. When we first got her home she could hardly lift her head, but now she is almost sitting up! I don’t see what Libi can’t do; I just see what she can do, and even more, what she will be able to do with God’s help. I don’t look at people who are different in a weird way anymore; because of Libis’ challenges and delays I look at them and smile. God has taught me how to trust Him even when it seems difficult. Adopting seemed difficult to me and now it has become one of the greatest things I’ve ever experienced.

Blessings...2009

2009-01-02T20:27:00.000-08:00

BLESSING BLANKET

Much to my surprise and excitement. Libi's blessing blanket was delivered to us on the last day of 2008. What a reminder to us of how blessed this little life is. Yes, Libi is blessed by the hand of her Great God, but of how the Father has lavished blessing on us through Libi! We look at this blanket and it means so much to us. It is a tangible reminder of those who have prayed Libi home and continue to pray over her life. I humbly say thank you to each of you for carrying our Libi Faith to the Throne of our Savior!!

As for the wonderful craftsmanship of this blanket...There are two wonderful girls that poured their time, energy and heart into piecing it together. These young ladies are passionate for orphans. So much so, that they have established a non-profit business where ALL the proceeds go to help bring orphans home. Be sure to check out their website. They make adorable things and their work is BEAUTIFUL!!!! I felt so honored to have these girls make this blanket for Libi. It makes it even more special.

From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another.

John 1:16

Glimpses of Christmas past...

2008-12-29T09:05:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

Our hearts are filled with gratitude to Our Great King!

The greatest gift ever given...JESUS!!!

As I think this time last year...

We were longing to have Libi Love home with us.

She was in the hospital in China with pneumonia, all alone.

Our hearts were also breaking in two as our little Ari Joy

had transitioned back home with her mama.

How we struggled to focus and rejoice in the Great gift of

Our Savior and King,

JESUS

This year...

On Christmas Eve I felt overcome with emotion as we sang Silent Night.

I felt so joyful and blessed.

I did not feel that way last year.

Last year I allowed my circumstances to rob me

of the true JOY and BLESSING that surrounds my life each day.

As we sang, I thought of Mary.

In that moment...the birth of her baby boy...she felt joyful and blessed.

Her thoughts were not of the sacrifice that lay ahead for her and her baby boy,

for she did not fully understand.

Her view was this Savior, this baby King.

When their 33 years together on this earth came to an end...

did she still feel joyful and blessed?

I believe amidst her heartache she did.

Blessed not only for what she had been given,

but I believe more joyful and blessed to have been part of such a

MIRACULOUS PLAN.

This is my desire...

to be ever aware of my part in this plan of a Savior.

That my JOY

be in the rescuer of my life

and my sense of BLESSING

in the opportunity to fulfill His purposes and plans.

This song below has become one of my favorite Christmas Songs this year.

My tears Of JOY are for my sweet Ariadna Joy!

My tears of HOPE are for our next adoption!

My tears of THANKFULNESS are for my Libi Faith,

and most of all My Jesus!!

(PAUSE THE PLAYLIST MUSIC TO LISTEN...)

Sometimes Christmas Makes Me Cry

I think of loved ones who’ve passed away

And I pray their resting in a better place

I think of memories of years gone by

And sometimes Christmas makes me cry

I think of soldiers across the sea

And Sometimes I wonder why its them instead of me

For my freedom they give their lives

And sometimes Christmas makes me cry

Tears of thankfulness,

tears of hope

I cry tears of joy

at Christmas cause I know

There is peace on earth for every heart to find

And sometimes Christmas makes me cry

I think of family,

I think of home

And say a prayer for those who spend this time alone

Cause love can reach out into a silent night

And that’s why Christmas makes me cry

Tears of thankfulness,

tears of hope

I cry tears of joy

at Christmas cause I know

There is peace on earth for every heart to find

And sometimes Christmas makes me cry

I think of Mary and the virgin birth

And I’m amazed at how much God thinks we’re worth

That He would send His only Son to die

And sometimes Christmas makes me cry

Soups ON!! and more "everyday" happenings

2008-11-30T19:23:00.000-08:00

Soup's ON!!!!

I have much to update...I will start with the funniest!

Libi has become "grabby"and QUICK. She managed to pull a Tupperware filled soup over onto both of us. There went dinner, we managed and had hot dogs!! :) I laughed so hard. She was absolutely STUNNED. Her eyes were huge when that big container of soup splattered all over us and she remained in a state of shock for a bit.

I am thankful it was cold!

GARDEN TIME...

Libi and I have been having a lot of fun playing in her garden. Thanks to one of Libi's therapists who helps me with great "playtime" ideas. She loves to sit in her garden and pull out her vegetables and then put them in the mailbox. I think I know who she is mailing them to. She also plays peek-a-boo with me through the mailbox. It is so much fun and GREAT sitting up time for her. I wonder when she will wise up to the fact that mom is making her work?

Playing Princess...

Speaking of therapy sessions. One of Libi's very favorite things is playing princess. This is a very motivating game for her. It is used to motivate her to stand, to sign "more" and just keeps her engaged.

This has a lot of meaning for me. I had a hard time for awhile wanting to do the "little girl" things with Libi. Playing dress up and having tea parties. I had an introduction into this world by my precious daughter, Ari, and I longed, selfishly to play these things with Libi.

One day, as I expressed my heart to my husband, he said,

"Then do it. Have and tea party, play dress up." Was it really that simple?

YES.

The very next day Libi's therapist pulled out the princess dress ups!!! Thank you God for showing me a glimpse into my daughters heart that I did not realize was there. In turn, He blessed mine!!!

I'm as Pretty and a Princess!

Speaking of Princess...

Brad and I were out shopping at Target the other night and I saw this little princess might gown. I bought it for Libi, but I really bought it for me! When we put it on her later, it was the most precious thing. She KNEW what it was! We told her she was a princess, and she immediately started to sign "more". I didn't get it at first. we took her in and put her in front of the mirror, and then it dawned on me. She wanted "more" princess, not just the dress, bring on the jewels. We dug out some beads and then she was happy!

signing "more"

More Cracker success!

Libi was successful with crackers to the mouth again. She also did well with some whipped cream at Thanksgiving. This is a goal that I am praying we will see her reach soon! It is hard to see her do something with great success and then not repeat it. Join us in praying for this little sweetie to become an independent feeder!

The TREE...

We put our Christmas tress up this weekend. It always amazes me how i picture these beautiful Martha Stewart like moments in putting up the tree. Every year without fail, I end up mad and crying, my kids end up mad and crying...does this happen to anyone else??? We did finally have success. We all enjoyed watching Libi gaze at the tree with excitement and furiously sign "more" and clapping. we think she liked it.

FINALLY...THANKSGIVING!!!!!

We had a very blessed day with our family. The food was amazing and the blessings abundant! We pray that your Thanksgiving was also very blessed!!!!

Libi with her Great Grandparents

with Uncle Scott!

Libi Meets Santa-walking w/ new orthodics

2008-11-23T12:25:00.000-08:00

Libi went to meet Santa! She would look at him, touch his beard, then look at us and smile. It was very sweet. I knew she would like him!

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your prayers and concerns regarding Libi's last seizure. I can't believe the progress we have seen in her in the last 2 weeks. I know that God is showing His miraculous healing touch! How crazy it is to see this very engaged little girl who just 2 weeks ago went through such a traumatic experience. The only thing that explains it to me is ...GOD! Enjoy the video of her walking with her new orthodics. This has become her new favorite activity!

We marvel at God's great work in our little Libi Love!

6 months! Thank you Jesus!!

2008-11-15T13:06:00.000-08:00

It has been 6 months since Libi came home. How great our rejoicing in the miraculous changes we have seen in this little girl!

One year ago I was struggling to let go of my dreams and expectations of adoption. I was longing that my precious little Ari (our foster daughter of a year and a half) would not have to leave us. I remember feeling that there would be a void and emptyness that would never be filled. That is not what our God plans for us in letting go. He does not leave us "empty". He fills us to overflowing!

I could have never imagined that Libi would be part of that plan to complete me. To bring me to a place of wholeness in Christ that I had never been. Some of you have never seen the video posted below. It was just 14 months ago that this was Libi Faith. To some, it may not be scary. To Brad and I we were TERRIFIED! Does anyone ever feel prepared or feel capable to care for a child with special needs? I feel so strongly that when God leads us into something that will be difficult, challenging, beyond what we think we are capable of...we want to run from it. Oh that we would be people that would run to it!!! Knowing that our Loving and Great God will always be faithful to provide what we need for the task, and trusting in His goodness. It is in that place of trust and surrender that holds the greatest blessings for our lives!

Enjoy this giggling beauty...she has become quite animated. Thank You Father for what you have done...

Listen for Libi saying, "Daddy" and "Yeah"
Also, pay attention to her anticipating the "yum yum" part of her speckled frog song.
THANK YOU GOD FOR GIVING US THIS ABUNDANT BLESSING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Filming done by Big Brother Joel.

Everyday is a GIFT

2008-11-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

I am unsure where to start with this post. It has been a week like no other week. Yesterday was a day unlike any other day. Many of you have heard, and some experienced it first hand, our sweet Libi Faith experienced a seizure yesterday. This blog is about my Mighty God and His never ending presence in my life and specifically the life of this precious little girl. So before I begin…

Jesus, You have never been more or meant more to me in my whole existence than You do in this moment. You have shown up and I am overwhelmed. You have not promised that this journey would be easy, but You have promised that You would never leave or forsake. You are MIGHTY TO SAVE! My praise to You, for You and about You is endless!!

I had this crazy intense morning with the Lord. I just could not get out of the Word. I had no idea he was strengthening me for what laid ahead that day. Libi was having a great day on Thursday. She was so smiley and engaged. I had those great overflowing feelings of love and thankfulness…you know when you just want to take a bite out of them because they just seem so sweet you could eat them? (Maybe that’s just crazy Brad and Amy Arnold)

It is so very real to me how in one moment your whole world can change.
I was feeding Libi her lunch and she began to go into this deep long stare. I could not get her attention. She was totally unresponsive. Libi’s doctors had described this type of seizure to us before so I don’t think it too long before it registered that she was having a seizure.

I was home alone so I quickly phoned my neighbor, Bridget. Bridget arrived quickly and I began to notice that Libi was in distress. This was not like any seizure I had experienced before. She was completely still. Her eyes rolled back and I thought that she was coming out of it. Unfortunately, it was getting worse. Her color began to turn ashen and I told Bridget to call 911. As Bridget began to speak to the operator it became apparent that Libi needed me to breathe for her. Her lips were purple, she was very cold, and I could not feel a pulse. Did I know what to do? Was I prepared? NO! All I could do was cry out to my precious Jesus and plead for His help. put your mouth on hers and BREATHE!!! Bridget continued to speak with the operator and we were assured that the paramedics were in route. Time stood still. I just continued to breathe into my sweet little baby, pleading with God to allow her to breathe. I think I went sown over her about 4 times, giving her 3 breathes each time. Libi began to come back to us and Bridget and I were in shock…we just cried and uttered thanks to the Name of our Helper, JESUS. By the time the paramedics arrived Libi was in a fairly hypnotic state. We began to see her become more stable and “with us” in the ambulance.

We had a lengthy stay in the ER. Libi had a fever of 101.3 when we arrived. All of the tests that were run came back normal. It was clear that she has a virus, but unclear if this seizure was due to her fever or not. So, her doctors felt it necessary to double her seizure meds. I was discouraged at first. I am so fearful about these medications causing Libi to become lethargic again. That in turn, causes her to lose ground in her physical development. We were praying hard for something to come back showing infection, because we knew if that was not the case they would want her meds increased. The Lord did not allow that. We trust that He is choosing more meds for Libi…although I am hesitant; I feel this is what the Lord is leading us to do.

I do not share the details of what happened in those moments yesterday to be dramatic, I share them to direct our eyes to Our Rescuer… the ONE who is our help and was our help in that moment of life and death with Libi. I cannot tell you what the reality of a day like yesterday can do to you. As I picked my sweet Libi Love up into my arms this morning she clung to my neck like she never had before and oh how I clung to her! What a gift the Father has given… in each moment…in each day…in each person…

To each and every one of you who interceded for us, who rushed to our side, who called to check in, who took over the details of “life”, who called 911…I will never be able to understand why the Lord has blessed us with those such as you. We feel so unworthy of your magnificent love and support to us. May you be blessed 100 fold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's been going on???

2008-11-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

Libi likes playing in the laundry basket.
This is nice because it is a new place for her to play sitting up. We have to be creative because she is easily bored and requires a lot of attention from mommy. So, the laundry basket allows me to get about one load of laundry folded.
Libi had a visit with her buddy Noah.
Noah is a little guy that is very special to us. His birth mommy lived with us during her pregnancy and we had the joy of being a part of the sweet journey of his amazing adoption.
Jacob had the privilege to run in the IESA State Cross Country meet.
It was such a great couple weekends with Jacob. So much of our attention is on Libi these days and it was so fun to lavish some attention on Jacob. he ran his 2 miles with a time of 12:27
Libi went to the Extreme Makover Home Edition.
Most of you know that a little guy who receives services from Easter Seals ( the same place that Libi receives her therapy) was chosen to receive a home makeover. It was an exciting week for many of Libi's therapists as this event took place. We loved having an opportunity seeing something so amazing take place. The show should air on January 11th.
Libi's a BUTTERFLY!
Yes, we know that she is a butterfly. I was very excited to find the perfect costume for Libi. Not only was it a butterfly, it was pink and purple, and it had hearts on the wings! She enjoyed the candy on Halloween. No problem signing "more" for that.

I really am sorry it has been so long since we have updated. I can barely keep up with email these days! Each day continues to bring new hope for Libi. We continue to wait and watch with great expectancy to see what the Lord will do with Libi.

Our children are amazing miracles! How blessed we are!! The Lord has given me a Scripture that has been one I am clinging to right now:

Psalm 138

1 I give you thanks, O Lord, with all my heart; I will sing your praises before the gods. 2 I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed by all the honor of your name. 3 As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength.
4 Every king in all the earth will thank you, Lord, for all of them will hear your words. 5 Yes, they will sing about the Lord’s ways, for the glory of the Lord is very great. 6 Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud.
7 Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your hand, and the power of your right hand saves me. 8 The Lord will work out his plans for my life— for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for you made me.

today...

2008-10-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

I will read a book to Libi today.
Not that there is anything new about reading a book to Libi.
The book that I will choose to read today is new.
It’s a book that I have been saving, for today, October 16th.
I purchased this book long before Libi was birthed into my arms.
What is the significance of today?
Two years ago today Libi’s mother choose life for her.

On this day two years ago, Libi’s mother took her to the garage of an orphanage and left her there.

Libi was 6 months old.
She was left with a red slip of paper that had her birth date written on it, but no name.
I have wondered, why a birth date and no name. Did she think about Libi having a “new” name along with the “new” life she hoped for her to have?
I know that God has known her by every name she has had on earth and in heaven.
Not only was Libi’s birth date on the paper but also the time of her birth, 10:25 PM.
To me, this is a piece to Libi’s mother’s heart.

Not only did she feel it was important to tell just the date of Libi’s birth to whoever would find her, but the very minute she entered the world.
I think that minute was one of the greatest minutes of her mother’s life and the minute she said good-bye to her at 6 months of age was one of the saddest.
Can you picture a 6 month old baby?

Think of how their little personality is beginning to blossom.

They have that sweet baby chub.

Only love could have driven her to the place of knowing she could not help Libi.
She knew she was not well.
Her resources were not enough.
She had to make a choice.
Am I speculating?
I don’t know.
I don’t care.
I have had glimpses into this mama’s heart as I have held a piece of it in the flesh,

our daughter.

My hope and prayer on this day for Libi’s precious mommy, that you would know that
she is safe,
she is well,
she is loved,
and you are thought of with honor and respect!
Thank you for the gift of life you gave to me and most importantly to our daughter.

These are the words to the story I will read to Libi Faith Jia Qi today.

Motherbridge of Love by Josee Masse

Once there were two women who never knew each other.
One you do not know. The other you call mother.
Two different lives shaped to make you one.
One became your guiding star; the other became your sun.
The first one gave you life; the second taught you to live it.
The first gave you a need for love; the second was there to give it.
One gave you a body, the other taught you games.
One gave you a talent, the other taught you aims.
One gave you emotions; the other calmed your fears.
One saw your first sweet smile; the other dried your tears.
One found a home for you that she could not provide.
The other prayed for a child; her hope was not denied.
And now you ask, of course you do, the question others ask me too;
This place or your birth place- which are you a daughter of?
Both of them, my darling – and two different kinds of love.

Here is a link to the books website.
www.barefootbooks.com/us/site/pages/productone.php?pid=2057&rep_code=US-A000513

Send yourself the e-card to see the illustrations and have it read to you. It is beautiful!

Family fun times

2008-10-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a few pics, actually a lot of pics! Of some things we have done as a family over the last couple of weeks. We went to Tanners Apple Orchard and Libi rode the cider barrels with Joel. She also had the opportunity to meet a goat, and I don't think she really cares to do that again. The boys had fall break this last week so we all headed up to Wisconsin for some fun at an indoor water park. It was one of our greatest family vacations! We had a lot of fun and we were able to kick back and relax with each other. My boys are all very funny in their individual ways, but it is usually Jack that keeps us all in stitches with his dry humor and timely "one liners". Libi Faith enjoyed her time in the water just as much as her big brothers. We also had a little day long adventure with my extended family. We went on a "fall festival" like tour, called the Spoon River Drive. It was a fun day, but the highlight was definitely Libi riding the ponies. She was smiling and giggling. It was priceless!!

Thanks for letting me share our sweet girl with you...we continue to notice that everywhere we go people are drawn to Libi. We are amazed how many times we are able to share the love of Jesus because of her. The lady who ran the pony rides shared with us about her own son who was special needs and now 40 years old. She told us he has Cerebral Palsy and never walked or talked, but she knew what he was saying with his eyes. Her LOVE for her boy was very evident in the tears that streamed down her cheeks as she spoke of him. She told us that one day at the park a little boy came over to her son with a Popsicle that he wanted to share. He realized that her son could not have it and he simply said to her, "Lady, if you love him enough he'll get better." Libi had touched her. That woman had watched 11 people standing around a pony corral laughing and crying over a delighted little handicapped girl on a pony and what she saw was LOVE, and LOVE from the Father is the greatest LOVE that can ever touch a life and make it better.

Diagnostic Pediatrician

2008-10-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

We wanted to bring everyone up to date on Libi. We had the opportunity to finally take her to a diagnostic pediatrician. We have not had Libi "officially" diagnosed up to this point. Everyone involved in her care felt that before an accurate assessment could be made we needed to give Libi the opportunity to progress in her new environment. And progress she has! Upon her initial evaluation she presented at about 4-5 months of age, both physically and cognitively. Her recent evaluation showed that she has progressed to 9-10 months, with some areas still remaining more delayed than others. We rejoice in what we have seen the Lord do in her!

With that said, we had been prepared to hear that Libi's challenge was not Cerebral Palsy. Several specialists have questioned that diagnosis. This appointment we had was prayed over much. The thing that we pleaded with the Lord most was that He would give the doctor His wisdom so we would understand Libi. We want to know that we are providing what she needs to be the best Libi she can be.

The doctor we saw is a specialist in Cerebral Palsy. He felt certain that Libi does not have Cerebral Palsy. What challenges Libi physically is a condition called Hypotonia. It affects the muscles and causes them to be very weak. It is difficult to increase strength in them. As the doctor said, "She will not be pumping iron." To what point will her muscles strengthen? No one can answer that question but our Great and Powerful God. I love that!! I love that He knows her full well.

Then there is what challenges her mentally. It was the doctors opinion that Libi is globally delayed. That is a politically correct term for retarded, or mentally handicapped. The doctor explained that while Libi has made great progress you would see that same progress with any child that has been adopted from an institution. Overall she is 32 months and at best, functioning as a 10 month old. It is just such a large gap, that factored with everything else, it is clear that she does not have "normal" brain function. Will she continue to make progress? Yes, Libi will continue to make progress, but just like her physical development there is no way to have an expectation of where her mental development will peak.

Where does that leave Libi? Well, it leaves her right where we want her, with all the potential in the world! As we have said so many times before, we believe that God will heal Libi. We believe His healing will be complete. We believe we will see it here on the earth. God has confirmed to us in dreams and visions that she will not only walk, but run. Apart from that my confidence is that He has and will continue to use this little girl to change the lives of many.

Are we living in reality? The doctor questioned weather we have thought through all the possibilities with her. Have we thought about her never being independent? Have we accepted this? You know, I understand that these things have to be asked, and no, you cannot live in denial of your children's challenges. But, the Lord has taught me through Jack and Joel and their learning disabilities that we all have disabilities. In our disabilities their are no definite limits. YES, we are living in reality, the reality of living by faith and not sight...

2 Corinthians 5
New Bodies
1 For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. 2 We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. 3 For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies. 4 While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life. 5 God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit.
6 So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. 7 For we live by believing and not by seeing. 8 Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 9 So whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him. 10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.

11 Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. 12 Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart. 13 If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit. 14 Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. 15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
16 So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

Libi's New Hair and New Chair

2008-09-20T16:16:00.001-07:00

Libi was able to borrow a little chair from Easter Seals and it has been great for her. She enjoys sitting up like a big girl playing in it. It is also great for working on independent feeding. Still praying for that hand to go to her mouth with great success! She also had her first haircut here with us. I wondered about her haircuts in China. I am sure that this was not her first "official" haircut, but her first with us. She has a sweet stylist who was wonderful with her. Libi seemed to enjoy it. She enjoys taking the comb and combing my hair. It is so very sweet!

O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed;
if you save me, I will be truly saved.
My praises are for you alone!

Jeremiah 17:14

Libi Giggles

2008-09-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

At Kindermusik last week we had a luncheon. When we were getting ready to go some of the girls were having fun playing. Libi got in on the action with some giggles. I am so thankful that her teacher was able to get some video of her. Nothing "lights up" Libi's spirit quite like a little kid. Her giggles are still few and far between these days, so when she lets them go you can't help but get teary eyed when hearing them. Make sure you pause the music on the playlist and pay close attention at the end for the SNORT! She does snort, so you know she is REALLY happy!!!

Mommy's Girl!

2008-09-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

So I might keep saying this, but it is so true. Libi had another great week! She was very engaged in spite of yet another cold. Since the boys have gone back to school Libi and I spend a lot of time together. I have had the opportunity to be more aggressive and intentional in therapy with her at home. She and I also began Kindermusik (a music class) this week. It is a class made up of all adopted children. It is a beautiful class! There are Chinese, Guatemalan, Ethiopian, Caucasian, Korean...I will post a picture sometime. I did Kindermusik classes with Ari and it was one of my favorite things that I did with her. I wondered if it would be hard to go back. I wondered if I would wish that Libi could do all that the other children were doing; singing, walking, talking. I knew she would enjoy it, but I wondered if my fears and emotions would hinder me in any way. Libi ended up LOVING it! Lots of signing "more". It filled my eyes with tears of joy! It was so thrilling to watch her having such a great time that I never thought about anything else. Thank you God, for once again, for blessing me with great joy and amazing peace!!

Libi with her teachers at Kindermusik who have followed her journey home to us. What a blessing for them to finally meet!

Libi is receiving 5 types of therapy through Easter Seals. We are so blessed by Easter Seals. They invest so much into these kids. Their passion is contagious. It is not just the therapists, it is everyone we have come into contact with at Easter Seals. So...be ready to order those calendars! It is a great way to support them, and in turn provide great help to children like Libi.

That was my Easter Seals mini campaign, believe me there will be more to come...

If you have not gotten your blessing in please do so this week!!!

Now...drum roll please...Libi is a mama's girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's official folks. She prefers me. She will pull away from anyone trying to take her out of my arms. She exhibits extreme refusal by turning her head away and clinging to me. Oh, how I love this. (Sick isn't it? but every mom out there knows and loves that feeling.) Last night I was doing some dishes at the kitchen sink and Brad had Libi across the room. She was looking at me whimpering and then she tried to say mommy and leaned out towards me. It touched Brad so much that he willingly brought her to me and took over dish duty. Whatever Libi wants, Libi gets. Which brings me to another update...I think she might be spoiled. Yes, she has begun to fuss when I put her down for independent playing and going to bed the last few days has become her time to scream. As soon as I pick her up she stops, even before her body has cleared the crib railing. Then, the second you lay her down the crying starts up. It is like a switch. I hate it when she cries, but tonight I felt like I needed to see how long she would cry. I decided I would go in every ten minutes to soothe her. It only took 2 times, so a total of 25 minutes before she was asleep. Not bad. Probably TMI.

Today was such a great day with her. It was a very "engaged" day with lots of expression, smiles, and even laughter. I am beginning to understand her and she is trying to communicate much more. These pictures I posted are her with her thumb stuck in the little hole of the measuring cup. We had a lot of fun figuring out how to get that on and off of her little thumb. What a sweetheart. She is pure sugar!!

Thanks for being on this journey with us. It is a blessing beyond words!

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-07T19:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend with friends and family...just wanted to share some pics.

The Unrescued

2008-08-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

Today was an "at home" church day for the Arnold family. Libi had decided to party in her crib once again from 3-6 AM. That girl knows how to have a good time, she just has not figured out the best timing for that with her mama! Anyway, it had divine purpose today.

Our family really needed to regroup. You know those times when your just running on a short fuse with one another? When you just find that everyone is a little edgy???

The Lord had spoken deeply to my heart through a program on Moody radio last week and I felt Him prompting me to share it with my family. So we came together as a family this morning and listened to the program. I saw the Lord use this so powerfully in our living room and I wanted to offer you the opportunity to bring it to yours.

The link: http://www.moodyradio.org/brd_ProgramDetail.aspx?id=24704

click "listen now" in the upper right hand corner

God has so stirred our hearts for the orphans, but this program took me into the world of the abandoned unlike anything ever had before. It is an interview with a gentleman, Rob Mitchell, who grew up in an orphanage from age 3 until he entered adulthood. He has written a book sharing his testimony.

the link to his book: http://www.castawaykid.com/

I implore each of you to take time to listen to it and let us know your thoughts.

As for the Arnold's and our thoughts...we are thankful. Thankful that God has chosen us to be His children. Thankful that He is Rescuer. Thankful that He has allowed us to be a part of "rescuing". Thankful that He will once again place a life preserver in our hands and give us the privilege to rescue.

143 MILLION ORPHANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
500 THOUSAND IN FOSTER CARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hopeless, Helpless Who will rescue them????????????

these are a few of their faces....

Easter Seals Photo Shoot

2008-08-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

Libi had her second photo shoot for Easter Seals. There will be a calendar coming out for 2009 that I will be asking each of you to purchase! It will feature our little angel with many others. Easter Seals has been such a HUGE blessing to us. Libi loves her therapists and God has used them to encourage great progress in her development. We thought we would give you a chance to view the gallery of pictures that are truly artwork. Thank you to Channel, who donated her time and talent to benefit Easter Seals and ultimately these precious angels! Just follow the link below and use aarnold as the passcode... and then "enter gallery"

http://www.yrmsproofs.com/pickpic/gallery/photo.php?id=32755

What's happening?

2008-08-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

We were home for a few short days and headed north to visit more family. It was a crazy few weeks, but so worth it to visit with family. It is amazing to me how "adaptable" Libi is these days. She is so secure. She never stresses out on us any more. I am so thankful that God has bonded us together.

Libi went to her pediatrician and the final report from that visit...she is SHORT...even for an Asian. I am thankful for this. I have been teased my whole life for being the short one. Could I have a child that will not exceed my height at the age of 10?? She is gaining lbs more rapidly than inches, so we have tweaked her diet a bit.

She continues to have her daddy right where she wants him. I took the two of them with me the other night to get some groceries and they had their little "kissy-love" fest all through the store. I told them next time they could stay home, because they were no help to me at all! It was a distraction to everyone trying to shop!!

School will start on Monday and I am not looking forward to the boys heading out the door, but I am looking forward to some routine around here. Libi will continue to meet with her therapists and her sessions with mommy will grow more intense.

We continue to be amazed that our wonderful Father choose to bless us with such a sweet gift of love. I know most might think I say this because I am her mama, but she is the sweetest little girl I have ever met! She is truly SUGAR!!

I close this post with James 1. I LOVE this chapter of God's word. These verses have taken hold of my heart since the Lord has gifted us with Libi Faith...

James 1
17 Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens.He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

18 He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.

27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

Home from Atlanta/2008 Olympics-Beijing

2008-08-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, first thing first. I am crazy proud for my little girl and her incredible home country of China. They have blown me away by their investment in making this the most incredible summer games the world has ever seen. As we tuned in to see the opening ceremonies I was once again touched by the rich culture of this wonderful country. It is so fun to "revisit" this country via the Olympics. So, the Arnold home will be cheering for 2 countries this Olympics...Go USA!!! Go CHINA!!!

We are recouping and unpacking from a great trip down to Georgia. We have not always had the privilege of having our family live within a day drive of us. What a great time we had together,

Yesterday I was pushed to the brink of my physical capabilities. I climbed a mountain. Yes, I climbed a mountain! AND...I have no pictures of myself at the top to prove it. Anyway, we had a very fun day at Stone Mountain. It was a tad too warm for my personal climbing experience. I really do not like to sweat and the sweating that was going on was PROFUSE and UGLY!

We took a ride on the ducks. It was a very interesting experience for all. Libi was not sure what to think of all the "quacking" that was taking place. If you are not sure what a "ride on the ducks" is, I will summarize. It is a ride on a vehicle that can operate on both land and in water. Enough said, we had fun! We were "quacking up"...

It was a beautiful day. You can't help being in a place like that and not think of our Marvelous Creator. On the drive home today I wanted to soak in each rolling hill and "fresh" pieces of scenery that I don't very often get to see. It was sad to come home and think of getting back to all the demands of life, but I am looking forward to falling into my bed tonight and having a couple more weeks of summer.

Crazy fun in Atlanta

2008-08-08T20:27:00.000-07:00

Just an update...
The kids and I drove down to Atlanta last Saturday. We made it here just fine. It was a lot of fun being on the open road with my kids. I must admit I felt like I had conquered the world when pulling into the driveway of my in laws.

We have been having a lot of fun. Brad flew into Atlanta on Wednesday to join us and drive back with us on Sunday. This is our first official vacation with Libi. She has been a dream! She is sleeping great, which makes a vacation very fun for mom. She also enjoys the pool. She goes all the way under the water, gives the best pucker kisses in the pool, throws the tennis ball wicked far!

I have not been very good about taking pictures. I hope to get some more before we head out. As you will see from what I have posted the Arnold's have learned to fly...to soar bean bags in a single bound...some of us better than others.

It has been so nice to be with family. It will be sad to leave them here. Libi has grown to love each of them so much, especially the dog!

We all needed time to be with family and kick back and have fun...

I will post again soon.

Psalm 116:7 Let my soul be at rest again,
for the Lord has been good to me.

Finally, an Update!

2008-07-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been awhile since we have sent an update. I really y am trying for once a week. We do love that you check in on the blog and pray for us.

What's new? Libi is AMAZING!! What a miracle. She continues to make progress with each new day.

* She is doing the whole, "how big is Libi?" thing, she then will raise her arms when we say SO BIG! Simply adorable, included a picture of her first attempts at it.

* Loves the swing!!

* Having great therapy sessions!

* She is mimicking words like crazy. A girlfriend of mine has been praying for her tongue to be loosed.

* Loves to stand and support herself with her own legs. She is getting so strong!

* She continues to use sign language for "more", and seems to understand the use of it better.

*She is so VERY engaged. She pays attention to people around her. She listens and stays engaged with you when talking to her.

*Smiling! Smiling! Smiling! I love to get her up from naps. She is so happy to see me. It feels good when there is someone in your life that gets that excited to see you after being away from you for only and hour.

*Along with the smiles there are many more giggles.

* Receiving kisses and smacking her lips for kisses is becoming a favorite activity.

We are SO amazed at what the Lord has continued to do in this little sweetheart. She is such a joy and delight.
Psalm 52:9
I will praise you forever for what you have done;
in your name I will hope, for your name is good.
I will praise you in the presence of your saints.

Continue to pray for Libi’s healing. We have seen the beginning of miraculous healing in her physically and mentally and we are confident that this is just the beginning.

"Praise the Lord, I tell myself, and never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases." Psalm 103:2-3

The kids and I are headed out for a road trip to Atlanta to see family. Daddy will join up with us later. I will try to post while we are there. Again, thanks for loving this little girl. We think she’s pretty lovable.

ARNOLD FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT

2008-07-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

We had the privilege of having yet more pictures by Kristen Kindred. Libi had a series of shots the day of the shoot so she was not at her best. We did get some good ones though. Enjoy!

THIS IS THE DAY

2008-07-19T21:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I know the blogs have been few and far between these days, but it is a little crazy around here. I promise to try to update once a week.

Libi had a bit of rough week. She didn't do too well with her second round of immunizations. She ran a fever and had a few fussy days. She also has 4 teeth coming in. She turned the corner today and is doing better.

Today was a marker day for us with Libi. She has continued to amaze us as we watch God at work in her physical healing. Last week she began to grab our fingers while lying on her back and pull herself up all with her own strength. She also does this crazy lift. We will hold her feet and she will pull with her abs, leaving only her head on the ground, and raise up her butt so her body is at this slant. It requires great strength and we are very impressed with it. The night she began to sit up she was so proud of herself. It brought me to tears. Again, knowing how difficult each thing is for her. I am just so crazy excited for her!

Today was one we will never forget. Libi's favorite song has become "This Is The Day". Today she sang it with lots of smiles and excitement. I think she knew this was going to be a good one!! Brad heard his daughter call him "gaggy" so many times we couldn't even count them. Then she was also initiating kisses more than we could keep up with. We will ask her if she wants kisses and she will lean her little forehead in toward us. She loves to be kissed! (Funny thing, she never gets turned down.) Being that she is ALL HEART...Sweetheart at that, the big event was...she said "I love you". Now, we have thought that she has said it before, but tonight it was CLEAR and repeated many times after us saying it to her. We are not crazy...our neighbors, Mark and Bridget Smith, were here so you can ask them if you know them. You can also check in with them to see if I was excited. There were just a few praises to Jesus and a little jumping.

This is so huge to me! Outside of an occasional sign for "more" Libi Faith has really not communicated anything to us. So how fitting is it that this little girl that is all about HEART first communicates with us her love and her need to be loved.

Isn't it once again like our relationship with our Father. We learn to trust Him, begin to intimately bond with Him, all the while receiving His care and love without giving much in return. Then, we begin to lean into Him ready to receive His sweet kisses, knowing that they will quickly fall upon us. Then, to hear those words spoken over us so many times and so many ways, one day it finally happens, we are no longer silent and our mouths cannot help but open up in response and say, "I Love You".

I look forward to many more words spoken from my daughter, can't wait to hear Mama!!! Until then, we bask in the work of His Mighty Hand and rejoice!

My Sweet Father, I Love You!!!!!

Tear duct has been probbed...Graham Cracker success

2008-07-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a quick update. We are home and Libi is doing well. The procedure went well to probe the tear duct of her right eye. God willing the tear duct will open up and we will see the swelling and tearing of that eye dissipate. She also has an issue with the lashes on the lower lid of that eye. The lashes grow toward her eye instead of away. The lashes are irritating the cornea a bit. We will "keep an eye" on it :) and see what it does over the next few months. If her eye continues to be irritated she can have a procedure done to correct the bottom of her lid. We anticipate God's healing hand to touch her little eye. Thank you for your prayers! She did very well with the whole procedure. Praise the Name of the Prince of perfect Peace!

The really big news is Libi successfully ate a graham cracker yesterday! Her feeding therapist was here and worked with Libi and she finally had success in getting that graham cracker in her mouth with her own hand and eating it. It was one of the most exciting moments! The therapist and I were trying desperately to contain our excitement so we wouldn't overwhelm her. As we sat and wiped tears from our eyes the therapist told me to quickly go get the camera. I was able to get some shots of her...I love the one of her smiling...she was VERY proud! For our feeding therapist it was so awesome for her to be here and see it happen and awesome for me to testify of our Great and Mighty King who is awakening this little life before the eyes of so many, including her mama.

Independence and Mac & Cheese

2008-07-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Well, July 3rd brought Libi's Official Certificate of Citizenship to the United States. We thought that was pretty cool timing for that to arrive. It was the first time that Libi met Brad's brother and family who played a significant role in helping us to bring her home. We had quite a time of celebrating together. Libi watched the fireworks display just 50 short yards from where they were being lit. We thought it might be too much for her to take in, but we were very wrong. The girl was smiling and laughing!! It was hard to watch the fireworks display because I had my own little show sitting in my lap. As Libi celebrated her first Independence Day I thought of how I look forward to celebrating other Independence days with her in the future. Celebrating Independence for her many new ways in the days and weeks to come...feeding herself, sitting up, walking, talking...

As far as progress and medical updates. I think the biggest thing we notice is the lack of tongue thrusting and the increase in baby babble. Jack has begun to call this complaining. She enjoys rolling on the floor very much. She has learned how to get herself to the TV. We continue to work on the sign for "more" and waving "hi" and "bye".

We had an EKG last week and the results were great. The cardiologist said her heart looked beautiful! We are so grateful to God for such a great report.

Tonight I was introducing Libi to some good ole mac and cheese. She was quite pleased with it. It took her a minute to get the idea of just how to suck macaroni noodles in her mouth. She does well with spaghetti, but the macaroni was tripping her up a bit due to the hole in the middle. You loose a lot of air through that little hole!

Libi is learning to enjoy the pool. As you can tell from the pictures this girl is high maintenance! The glasses, the hat, the special chair... This last trip to the pool she was putting her face into the water. I was also blessed to be with a friend who has experience with disabled children. She showed me some ways to help Libi enjoy some water therapy. It was very fun. Tonight I had her doing some floating on her back in the tub and she was signing "more". It was very cute! I am beginning to think our little sweet heart has a bit of a wild side.

I have been writing a short story about our journey to Libi Faith. It is so amazing to look back. What a story the Lord is writing for her. I feel so blessed and privileged to be her mama!

On Tuesday Libi will have a procedure done to unclog her tear duct. It is not a procedure that guarantees success. So...that is our desire, and we ask that you to join us in praying. It will be a fairly quick procedure beginning around 8:00 AM and lasting only 15 minutes. It will require her to be put to sleep. Ask our God for peace for little Libi's heart and mind. Once again, thank you for praying for her.

You've been Praying!!

2008-06-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you to our Mighty Warriors who have been on their knees for Libi Faith. We can see it, feel it, and KNOW it without a doubt!! We started the new medication and we are amazed at what has happened. Our concerns of her being disengaged and lethargic are no longer. It actually has had an opposite effect on our little peanut. She is quite a WILD woman on this medicine. She is "busy" and loud.

We continue to see great progress in her. It is becoming addictive to see what new thing she will do with each day. Sorry to all of you who have to hear about every new little thing...I can't help my excitement.

Libi began to use the sign for "more" this week. We are hoping that this is just the beginning of her being able to communicate some things with us. She continues to grow more mobile when on the floor. Her largest struggle right now is sleep. We know this will continue to be something that is in transition for her. She was quite a dream for the first month, but we know that the medication she was on played a large role in that. It is quite apparent that her body does not really know how to settle itself down. Also, she has become quite aware that sleep means mommy or daddy are not with her. So, is she a bit spoiled? YES! And we feel that it is a very good thing for our precious Libi.

Once again, we are so thankful to all of you who are lifting up our daughter to the Throne of our Great God. He is working the miraculous in this sweetheart and we are so blessed to see it ALL!

A Minor Glitch

2008-06-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

So, unfortunately we took a trip via ambulance to the ER this morning with our precious Libi Faith. She had a seizure this morning at about 6:20. Bummer...but let me tell you what the Lord did!

Libi has been struggling to sleep very well since being off of her medication. We think that her body hasn't really had to "learn" how to sleep or stay asleep due to the medication making her so groggy. Last night Brad thought it would be best if we brought her into bed with us and helped start to retrain her in getting to sleep. She went to sleep like a champ! Because of this we were right there with her when she began to seize. What an answer to how the Lord gives you wisdom and discernment with your children.

It was not a very long seizure and not anything severe in form. She was quite upset in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. I have never heard her cry like that. I was able to share with the EMT how God brought this little miracle to us. He was amazed and touched as I shared how God had rescued her. It was in that moment that I felt God giving me perspective.

Sweet Joel woke up as the ambulance was departing and wanted to come to the hospital and be with his sister. It was so neat to sit in the ER watching Joel take on such a comforting role with his sister. It made me wonder what the Lord is equipping him for.

We once again covet prayers. The doctors have Libi on a newer medication that is not suppose to have as many side effects. She made so much progress this last week off of medication. We were AMAZED at how she was verbalizing and moving around the floor. It is our hope that she will continue to be alert and engaged.

Thank you once again for standing beside us with love support and prayers. As I sat in the ER I was reminded of these verses...fighting to keep my eyes on Jesus and knowing that we have access to the greatest power source imaginable!!!!

2 Corinthians 4
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

13It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken."With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, 14because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. 15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

What's new???

2008-06-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

Well, A lot happening here. Jack enters the world of double digits! We had fun ringing in this new decade with Jack. He is such a joy and delight. It was good to have some time to celebrate him. It seems like the days fly by and not much gets accomplished, but one thing is for sure little Libi continues to blossom before our eyes. We cannot describe the changes in her.

Libi went to the neurologist last Friday and he was very upbeat about her. He did not feel like there were any major concerns at this point. He decided it would be best to pull her off of her seizure medications and see how she does. Again, this was a doctor that has been hand picked by God. He was not my first choice for her. In fact, he was pretty much my last choice. Once again, God showed me the importance of trusting Him to lead. He was so kind and wonderful with Libi. We were told that he prefers to use medication. I thought we would have to beg and plead to take her off her meds, but I did not even have to ask! We were encouraged by the positive report, but even more so by the perfection of our God and how He perfectly orders all things!!

Since Libi has been off her medication she has really come to life. She has become much more animated and opinionated. We have even seen her pitch some fits. Can you believe I am going to shout out a hallelujah on that? She is so much more alert. She is playing on her tummy and scotching around more. She has gained a lot of strength in her back and abs. We are hearing "gaggy", for daddy more frequently. She really enjoys playing. Right now she is next to me in her booster chair playing with a puzzle. She like to BANG!

So, the big event...last night Libi ate cake with her OWN HANDS!!!! We met with her feeding therapist yesterday morning and she was very confident that within 3 weeks we would see Libi putting food in her mouth. She gave me some wonderful tips. Last night, we rejoiced as she enjoyed her "mush cake" that was made for her open house. (Yes, we are just now getting to it. I told you we have been busy! But, obviously God's perfect timing) We can't wait to watch this new skill continue to develop.

More Open House Pictures

2008-06-14T14:04:00.001-07:00

or copy this code (click on the textbox below and press Ctrl+C):

Wanted to share some pictures from our wonderful photographer...Kristin Kindred. It was such a blessing to have the camera flashing as we had this awesome day of celebration! Again, thank you for helping us welcome this precious gift home! You have blessed our lives abundantly!

I still have a ? on 2 gifts...would love to know who these are from so I can thank you personally. :) We had no card with them when we got them home. The ladybug tie blanket and the silk "lovey" that came with the I Love You book....

EEG is normal!!!!!!!!!! Open House is a blessing!

2008-06-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

The open house for Libi Faith on Sunday was beautiful beyond description. So many of you took the time to come and celebrate with us and for that we offer our deepest gratitude. We are so blessed by your outpouring of love and encouragement to us. This precious little girl does not handle a lot of people at once well. She tends to "buck" and arch her back...she just plain gets stressed. This was one of our biggest concerns heading into the open house on Sunday. Well, she was prayed over and the Lord blessed her with perfect PEACE! We have never seen her so peaceful for so long. We thank our gracious Father for such a wonderful gift of peace upon her.

This journey we are on with this little angel is something I will never fully understand. I am witnessing something about the heart of God in this child that I am blown away by. I think my daughter sees and knows God in a way that I never will.

The Lord continues to prove His healing in this little girl. Things we have been certain of have been proven otherwise. The "normal" reports that we have received this far are AMAZING! So far, we have good hearing, and vision. The most wonderful news has been this EEG. The report came back as NORMAL!!! I will tell you that when I received the message to call for the report today I felt sick to my stomach. My first reaction was fear. Was I ready to hear what the report had to say. I knew that we had just celebrated this rescued life the day before and the Enemy would not like what took place. I was prepared for some spiritual warfare. As I dialed the number to the doctor's office I told the Lord that no matter the report I was believing Him for a complete healing in Libi Faith. So, here I once again prove how weak my faith is. That report was beyond what I could have asked or imagined. Once again, I believe that God is working the miraculous in the life of this little girl and I will shout from the mountain tops...HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD!!!

I will post more pictures from the celebration soon...

Good morning all. I am going to move in on my wife's territory for just a moment. This is Brad, yes that is a pink shirt in the pictures. Not since junior high has anyone or anything motivated me to wear that color, but clearly I would do anything for this little girl. It seems that is the norm for her life so far. Even since being in the foster home God's favor has rested on this little one. From the Sunday School class at a small church in Beijing that helped pay for her heart surgery. To the sponsors that she had who helped provide for her care at New Day, and send her little gifts. To the hundreds of people that have partnered together to pray her home. The dozens of families that came to shower love and blessings on her at the open house this weekend. And the ladies who worked their tail off to make it all happen. Doctors seem to line up to provide care for her. We are privileged to have our 3 boys, Libi and all of you who are our fuel. May the Lord bless you for your faithfulness and generosity. We are grateful.

Libi says her first word!!!

2008-06-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

We knew it would happen, and I have witnesses! Libi said "Ge Ge" (pronounced gu gu) which is big brother in Chinese. We frequently refer to her brothers by this name. Monday night Joel, Brad and I were chatting with Libi and we asked her where Ge Ge was. We turned her Joel's direction and there it came...Ge Ge. It was distinct and clear, and so was the smile and reaction of our sweet little girl who knew full well she had done something BIG! It was a MOMENT! One of those moments that you laugh until you cry.

We have had a "full" couple of days and Libi is just becoming more of herself. She is expressing more feelings. She has even begun to show her stubborn side. I LOVE it! Her cry is much like a puppy whimper. It really is sweet. She happens to get a glimpse of a bottle and she will start her pathetic little whimper. This is great progress that she is beginning to voice her opinions.

Today we got a bumbo chair She enjoys it so much! It really is hard work for her to sit in for very long. I am so proud of her and how hard she works. I know that I am so privileged to see the moment by moment progress in her. I feel like no one else can appreciate it like I can. What a blessing to be her mama!!

I am loving all of the wisdom being given to us through doctors and therapists. Her feeding therapist helped us tremendously! Who would have thought giving Libi "mushy" graham crackers that have been saturated in water would be one of the highlights of my day. She loved this little snack. All with the goal of working toward a whole,non soggy graham cracker, being self fed.

Goals...a funny thing. Think of the goals you have set for your own life over the last year. Do you want to know Libi's? Beginning stages of crawling, sitting up, feed independently...puts perspective on life doesn't it? Think of the simple things you and I do every day that we take for granted. I see it in the determination on her face these last few days. She is trying so hard! Every little thing that she accomplishes is so huge to me.

So here is the parallel...Your Heavenly Father looks down on you, and waits, face beaming, for what you are going to do next. He is so ready and waiting to tell you what a good job you have done and how much He loves you. Every little thing you do that moves you closer to the goal of becoming more like His Son He sees as a HUGE accomplishment. As each day passes and my love for Libi grows stronger I grow to know my God even more. This journey I am on with my sweet daughter is not unlike the journey He is on with me.

It blesses my life to share with you the story that is unfolding before us. Thank you again, for loving, supporting and praying....

Photo Shoot

2008-06-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

Well, we had an amazing young lady, Kristen Kindred, stop by and shoot some pics of Libi...WOW! I must brag on her...this is just a sampling of her work. Libi was not even at her "best". We were so blessed by her initiative to do this for us so soon after getting her home.

More Precious with each New Day

2008-06-02T09:01:00.001-07:00

Libi is taking a little nap and I have 45 minutes before her next appointment. So...time for a quick update. I want to once again say thank you for the prayers. We are continuing to see Libi come to life before our very eyes. I think you will be able to see it for yourself in these pictures.

The major medical breakthrough had been with her seizure medication. Her blood levels came back very high indicating a major adjustment being needed for this medication. Since we have changed this she has been much more alert and animated.

She is really showing that she "knows" her family. It is hard to keep her "in" and in just mamma's arms, but it really is best for her. Days where we are out a little more or around more people it seems to "shut her down" a bit. I see her security improving and know it takes time. I am so thankful for the divine wisdom that God has given to Brad and I to read her and know when she has had enough. I was sharing with a friend last night how she had all these little habits of soothing herself to sleep at night. She would go through her little routine of things before she would finally drift off to sleep. We have seen these behaviors grow less necessary for her. Praise the Lord! This is such a huge sign of her growing comfort and security.

Sunday we went out to lunch and she sat in a wooden high chair and opened her mouth for each bite until her whole jar of baby food was devoured! This is huge success for this little angel. Brad and I were so excited!!

She will continue to see many doctors over the next couple of weeks. This Friday she will have and EEG. To us this is probably the most critical test. It will show us what is going on neurologically. I don't know that we will know the results until the 13th when we meet with a neurologist.

On Sunday we were at church and Libi Faith came to life when we began to worship. She was belly laughing. Now for a little girl that you practically have to stand on your head to make smile, unless your name if Joel, this is HUGE! She was clapping and singing. She liked it so much more than our "Annie" sing along. Our pastor prayed for sweet Libi. Something that struck me in his prayer was when he prayed for Libi's healing, and thanked the Lord that it has already begun. I believe this completely. The day Libi Faith was birthed into our arms her healing began, and it continues with each New Day. Continue to join us in prayer as we see the Lord heal our daughter mind, body, and spirit

Jeremiah 17:14 Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed;
save me and I will be saved,
for you are the one I praise.

Libi Faith Goes to the 5th Grade

2008-05-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

Another "full" day for Libi. We spent the morning with the Doctor and then took a visit to Joel's class at school.

The Doctor visit was good. We left with a list of orders for the lab. We will hit all of that tomorrow and needless to say, I am not looking forward to that. Pray for a good vein and a great tech to draw all of the blood necessary. We have 5 specialist appointments scheduled and a battery of other tests. I am so thankful for how God has ordered every detail of her medical care. It really is falling into place beautifully! A huge praise with Libi! She has this really unusual cough. I have been thinking that she is possibly aspirating on her bottles. Well, her pediatrician suggested trying some breathing treatments with her because he heard her wheezing today. I did one at noon and one just before bed...so far NO coughing! This would be HUGE!

The visit to Joel's 5th grade class was such a gift! You want to meet some amazing prayer warriors? Then just step into the 5th grade class at Cornerstone Christian Academy. These kids have prayed and waited for Libi Faith to come home since last November. Once again, God's perfect timing that they were able to enjoy a time of welcoming her home as a class today. These kids have stood with Joel in heartache as he let go of his sister Ari and they walked this journey to Libi with great anticipation! They have amazed me and encouraged me. I am blown away by their faith and love for this little angel. I thank you Mrs. Chambers for teaching these children to be passionate about their God! I thank you 5th grade class, for you have taught me much about pure love and childlike faith. I have been richly and abundantly blessed!!

Speaking of blessed...the blessings never seem to end around here. The greatest gifts have come our way. I came home after a long day yesterday only to find my parents had been here and cleaned my house!! What a gift! I have not had to think about dinner, nor will I for weeks! These are the blessings that mean more than I can say. I praise God for each of you who have blessed us with acts of service and taken our names before the throne of our Great God. Know that we are overwhelmed with gratitude for all that you have done!

Libi continues to make great strides. We are daily excited about new things we see in her. She and I have begun to sing show tunes together. So far, "Annie" seems to rank as a favorite in our repitour...My poor daughter...she really does seem to like me though.

She's a Butterfly

2008-05-29T04:51:00.000-07:00

We made it till 5:45 today! Progress!!!! Yesterday was a big day! I needed little time to process it with God before I posted. My mother in law and I ventured up to Chicago with Libi to take her to an international adoption specialist there. On the way up we stopped off at our great friends, Josh and Christy Schraeder's. The Schraeder's have been home just one month with their third child adopted from China. They are a precious family, and they have been a rich source of encouragement and advice along this journey. Libi enjoyed watching their children.

Libi did great in the car. She slept most of the way up and back. She got a little restless on the way home, but as soon as the music came on she was good.

So, the appointment. The good news is, Libi has great skin! The doctor said he has never seen better skin on a baby. The doctor also said that she is "beefy". Which I found funny, but Libi will soon grow to dislike that as an affectionate term. Bottom line diagnosis: Libi is complex. She has multiple challenges. This is not news to us, but when faced with the reality of it all at once can be a bit overwhelming.

We will start ruling out major concerns first. She will need a MRI and neurologist right away so that we can determine if there is any seizure activity happening that we are not "seeing". She could be having mild mini seizures. Also, it is very apparent that she has some significant reflux and has been aspirating. She will need to have some GI tests and a swallow test to determine the severity of this problem. Worst case scenario with this would be the need for a G-tube for feeding. Again, these things are the major concerns and most certainly we are expectant that these will quickly be ruled out.

Today Libi will see her pediatrician here and begin the battery of tests and referrals. Pray for her today as she begins the process of being poked and prodded. Pray that her mamma will have wisdom on comforting and advocating for her.

As I lay beside her last night I was so reminded by my Good King that He is capable of working beyond what we can ask or imagine. I have seen Him do it thus far, and I know that is the character of who He is. So we wait as He continues to do His thing...His new thing in Libi Faith!

This morning Libi and I were having such a precious time of "bonding". I was amazed at how she was hugging my arm and looking so intently in my eyes. I couldn't believe that this was the same little girl I laid with just 18 days ago!! She has truly transformed before my eyes! How she had changed...but not as much as I have changed. I feel like I don't even know myself. She has become my passion and love to extent I never imagined. I thought of the all the hopes and dreams I have for her and the Lord quickly reminded me that He has His own hopes and dreams for her. The greatest of those being, to give her a future and a hope...I believe for Libi that was us...and for us that was Libi!

So, I would ask that you would join us in praying for this little butterfly.

SHE'S A BUTTERFLY

She remembers when she first got her wings
And how she opened up that day she learned to sing
Then the colors came, erased the black and white
And her whole world changed when she realized

She's a butterfly, pretty as the crimson sky
Nothings ever gonna bring her down
And everywhere she goes
Everybody knows she's so glad to be alive
She's a butterfly
Like the purest light in a darkened world
So much hope inside such a lovely girl
You should see her fly, it's almost magical
It makes you wanna cry, she's so beautiful

God bless the butterfly,give her the strength to fly
Never let her wings touch the ground
God bless the butterfly,give her the strength to fly
Never let her wings touch the ground

Libi's Easter Seals Appoinment

2008-05-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

So today was Libi's evaluation at Easter Seals. Easter Seals is an incredible organization that provides therapy services for growth and development for children with delays due to various reasons. She was a trooper. She did great. There were 6 people in the room to evaluate her. She just played and enjoyed herself. I am already CRAZY about Easter Seals! They seemed to enjoy Libi as much as I did. She truly is a sweetheart. I don't just say that because she is my daughter, well, maybe I do. Anyway, she will be receiving, what I believe, is the best therapy possible. Easter Seals is passionate about what they do and passionate about these kids. She should begin sessions by the end of next week. Libi will receive Developmental therapy, Physical therapy, Occupationally therapy, and feeding therapy. Eventually speech therapy will be added to the therapy list! I am so grateful for how the Lord has ordered everything needed for her development. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that I have not had to go looking for one Dr. or therapist for this girl. He has laid it all before us! He ordered it so perfectly that even the timing of her appointments happening the week after we get home. They were all scheduled on His Kingdom calendar. They sent us home with a really cool stander for her home therapy. She has to spend about a half an hour a day in it. Praise God for Easter Seals...

quick update

2008-05-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

I'm falling asleep at the computer so this is a quick update. Day before last we were up at 3:00 AM. Yesterday up at 4:00. Today we were up at 5:00. Could we make it till 6:00 tomorrow? Mommy hopes so! Just wanted to let you see some pics from the last day. Tomorrow Libi starts doctor appointments. Pray for wisdom and most of all "cheerleaders" as we begin to piece together a medical team for Libi Faith.

Blessing Blanket

2008-05-25T04:32:00.000-07:00

Reading "Daddy's Girl"
Look how good she is sitting up...that straight back...PTL!

I was overwhelmed to complete sobs this morning by how many people the story of Libi Faith has touched. I cannot say thank you enough, not for myself, but for my daughter. I desire for her to one day have a glimpse of the love and prayers that were offered up for her when she was birthed into all of our hearts. SO.....

I would like to ask each of you to send a 9 inch square of fabric and write a blessing, prayer, verse for Libi Faith and attach a swatch of the same fabric with it. The notes of blessing along with the swatch will be put into a book for her and the 9 inch squares will be made into a quilt.

You can send them to:

Amy Arnold
3504 Zachary Lane
Bloomington IL 61704

or...we will have a basket for them at the open house.

again the open house is:

June 8th 3-5:00
Hampton Inn & Suites
College Hills

Thank you once again...she is a little life that has been changed, and you have all been a HUGE part of it all!

"The Happiest Day of My Life" - Joel Arnold

2008-05-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

I once again find myself overwhelmed with emotions. What's new right? My little angel is rolling on the floor with her brother Joel just like she has been doing it her whole life. Only God, that is all that explains any of this. This little babe was hand picked by God from the beginning of time to be our daughter and it is known to us full well. Brad and I are blown away by how she just "feels" so natural to us. We had many moments of deja vu in China with her. She is so familiar to us. It is really hard to describe, but as Brad and I talk about it we seem to both feel the same thing. AMAZING LOVE...

Coming home felt so incredible. It was a feeling like no other. Not just to come home, but to come home to our dearly loved family and friends. Thank you to all of you who took the time and made the drive to Chicago to welcome our Libi Faith home. We can never express to you how grateful we are for such a welcome home celebration. I cannot imagine the greeting we will receive at the the gates of heaven, but in my mind this welcoming is close to what I imagine...yes, that incredible! When we got her in the door of our house there was such a sweet peace that fell over our home and me that has not ever been here before. It is "home" like it has never been before.

Libi is continuing to make great strides in her progress. We promise to keep updating every couple of days. We know so many of you are praying and we have seen God do miraculous things together....this is just the start. We will behold amazing things in and through this little girl in the days and weeks and months ahead. Jacob had a dream of Libi walking last night and it was the school year next year...I believe that to be a clear vision of what lies ahead for our angel.

I am not sure if we have adequately expressed on the blog what a miracle it is that this precious girl is home. There are many things that could have hindered this for her. I am so reminded of the scripture found in Job 42:2 "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. We have been shown and told many times that a child in Libi's condition will very rarely make it out of China. There are situations where families arrive and reject these little ones because they are more severe than they had anticipated. The directors at Libi's foster home were praying hard the day we picked her up that the orphanage would allow her to be released and that we would desire to receive her. To even type this is difficult. Has this journey been without fear? No. Has it been without struggle? No. We have been catapulted out of our comfort zone? Yes, but...I cannot fathom saying anything but "Yes and Amen" to this little child of God. We are now the blessed recipients of this incredible gift.

They are all His little ones. I urge you to cry out on behalf of these that carry the label of "special needs". They need their families. They need their mommies and daddies. We need to pray for them and seek the Lord on our faces for what our role is in caring for them....

James 1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Love and blessings to all of you! Thank you for helping us bring Libi Faith Jia Qi Arnold home!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A "New Day" in China

2008-05-21T04:50:00.000-07:00

I am typing this blog from the legendary New Day Foster Home, where Libi spent the last 15 months of her life. As we told Karen (the New Day Director), "we all in Bloomington feel as though you, the staff and kids here are movie stars." However, unlike movie stars, they are more beautiful in person than they are on the web site.

We had to get up early, as you could tell from the post about Libi's cold, and take the van to the airport. When we arrived at the airport, it seemed as though it was going to be another one of those John Candy and Steve Martin travel days. However, by the time we found the New Day driver in the Beijing airport (7 hours later), we finally got a heavenly perspective and laughed. Anyway, Libi coughed her little "5 pack a day lady" cough most of the way to Beijing. She was even more of an attention getter than usual. No seizures however. After getting the bags to the van and passing a 6'10 Chinese girl, (Jacob was impressed) we made the 75 minute trek to NDC in rural Beijing.

I never pictured how far out this place is. It put so much perspective on Libi's treks to the hospital and how difficult that must have been. Anyway, it is a beautiful place in the country. It is a Business (for helping Chinese nationals have a fair place to learn skills and make a living), a Language school, (to help students and young adults perfect conversational English), and a foster home. Many of you have seen pictures of the foster home on the web site, but they don't do it justice. It is a very pleasant place for the kids, with great rehab facilities, a playground and classrooms. We were grateful to God for this place, the care Libi received, the sponsors that contributed to her care, and mostly the nanny that cared for her daily. Julia is a sweet lady, who clearly loves this precious child. As we have experienced ourselves, our hearts ache for her. Libi did get to spend some time with her, and we took some great pictures of Libi with Julia.

Waking up this morning, we questioned whether it was the right decision to come to New Day at the end of the trip. We quickly rebutted that God was sovereign and let it go. After the brief time with Libi's nanny, Karen brought us to the nurses office, where there happened to be the nurse, the resident doctor, and a visiting doctor from Mercer School of Medicine. So, that cold that you all were praying for today, was treated by not 1, but three medical providers in the most rural part of Beijing. How's that for a Great Provider. They even had some antibiotic and cold medicine to give to her. Praise the Lord. Anytime we begin to look at scheduling conflicts or adverse conditions, we need more of that Sovereign God perspective, amen?

Now the hard part... you know those movie stars I mentioned earlier. Turns out they are just as needy as those in Hollywood. Amy and I went in the toddler playroom after dinner and we were attacked. Let me preface this with a description of what New Day Foster home is - It is a fantastic place, where kids are loved and most importantly saved from the medical conditions that plaque their lives. It is an intense treatment foster home, meaning the really sick go there to get out of the grave and off the gurney. On top of all that, they have nannies, interns and staff that love them dearly. However, the reality of what we saw is this is only temporary. What these kids want is a ma ma and a ba ba. Those kids could not get close enough to you. They would fight over each other to have the prime spot in our laps. They are truly remarkable kids, and every one of them, with their medical baggage and all, would be a tremendous gift to anyone of us. (We have some stories for some of you that have favorites there, so please be patient and we will get some pictures and descriptions of their personalities.)

Friends, let's all get on the bus together. There are kids here that want a family. I know that blogs, stories, pictures and even video do not touch the reality of what we experienced tonight. We can only pass along the experience and hope that the Lord will take it a step further and personalize it for each one of you. Many of you have experienced it and have commented that the feeling can even be addictive. Wow, what a great drug to be hooked on.

We have said many times, and will continue to repeat it: "We could not have made it through any of this without the army of prayer in front and behind us." Almost every night we are overwhelmed to tears by your prayers, scriptures and encouragement left for us on the blog. Thank you each one, and praise you Father for your showering abundant love on us.

We will be arriving in Chicago tomorrow night, and all who are crazy enough to make the drive up there to she Libi place her feet on US soil as an American Citizen are absolutely welcome. Libi has had a traumatic few weeks, and though we would love all of you to experience her silky smooth skin and kissable cheeks first hand, we will limit passing her around to just her brothers and grandparents. Also, when we arrive home we will take the weekend (thru Monday) to get Libi comfortable with the house, her brothers, and sleeping in the Western Hemisphere, by leaving the phone off the hook and the doorbell unattended. I hope that you all understand our desire to see Libi bond and feel safe, before we throw too many people in front of her. We will be having an open house for everyone to see her on June 8th at the Hampton Inn in Bloomington. So, this is it for our in country posts. We love you and cannot thank you enough...

Libi's Sick

2008-05-20T14:22:00.001-07:00

Hey all, I am going to throw one more burden of prayer on you guys. Please pray for Libi, her cold has gotten worse through the night, and I am concerned about her seizures with the stress of the travel. Please pray for God to heal her and sustain her through these next two big days. This is a lot for healthy adults, let alone sick infants. Thanks again brothers and sisters. We love you all... Brad

Leaving Guangzhou

2008-05-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

I am a mix of emotions tonight. What's new? Other than feeling like I am "rocking" on a boat constantly, we are all holding up well physically. We are ready to come home. Today we enjoyed another quiet day...I say this, but keep in mind "quiet" with a baby. It seems like I never "stop", you know. I have a feeling we are all going to CRASH hard when we get home. I am looking forward to those first few days with family. It sounds like such a sweet refuge to me right now.

Our travel group took our kids to the famous "red couches" here in Guangzhou for pictures. Not all of the children were hip on getting their pictures, but there were a few that didn't mind...including our sweet Libi. She was pleased as punch to sit on that couch. I think you will enjoy the pictures. We have made wonderful connections here. It was difficult to say good-bye to our friends the Braniffs tonight. There is a bond a connection there that is deep. We are already planning our vacation to see them!
We also had our final stage of the adoption today. We received Libi's visa and had the oath ceremony. It was pretty emotional. It is the end of so much and yet the beginning at the same time. There are so many stages of this process of bringing our little princess home, it seems strange that once her little feet hit US soil it will all be OFFICIAL! She is too precious for words. God has entrusted us with a rich treasure.

She is really struggling to settle, so I need to go relieve daddy. Pray for Libi, she is getting a cold. Also, pray for our visit to New Day, her foster home. Pray for no set backs or confusion. I want to be wise about her needs. I covet your prayers for wisdom and peace....thank you again, for being on this journey with us!!! We are soon to be home!!!!

Consulate Day Success

2008-05-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

UPDATED

BTW - Praise God for the Sanders news tonight. Zoe, here they come! Also, many of you have asked about the plane ticket home... God not only worked out the ticket change, He also threw us into the bulk head row for the 2.5 hour flight. Thanks so much for praying.

Good evening (morning for y'all) family, friends and neighbors. We had a very relaxing day today. Rob (Izzy's dad) and I made our way to the Carrefour with a short list of things to get for our new little ones. Sounds easy right... we had instructions for the cab driver in Mandarin to get us there and back. Rob had most of his shopping list in Mandarin as well. Me not so much... a stroller, some baby food, and some soy based formula. We spent 30 minutes looking at the back of every container of Formula looking for some evidence that it was soy based. We spoke to over 10 people looking for someone who could speak enough English for me to not be a failure again. No luck. We could not find hair scrunchies either. What we did find was a variety of stage 1-3 baby food that had flavors like fish with yam paste and chicken with veal. I can't imagine any toddler refusing such delicacies.

After returning somewhat empty handed, we went out for lunch at Lucy's again. We did have some nice conversation with more adoptive families which was great. Shamian Island is an amazing place. After lunch we went to a store, and at 2:28 pm there was a moment of horn blowing and silence in memory of the tragedy in Sichuan. The store we were in was owned by a believer. He asked several of us adoptive parents to please pray with them during this time of silence. It was very sobering. For 3 minutes horns from all over the country were blowing. This seemed to mask the mourning, because the only Chinese person in the store was the clerk who was sobbing. It was not evident until the horns stopped. I don't think anyone here seems to grasp the magnitude of this event for China. I found myself praying God send a spirit of salvation. The Chinese are unable to handle this tragedy on their own. They need help from all countries. Could God be bringing about peace through this tragedy. Could He be preparing the hearts of Chinese people for the Gospel.

The one thing that is clear... God wants us to pray for this country. So many of us already hold it dear to our hearts as the birthplace of our children. So let's do join together in prayer.

We went to the Cow Bridge (Tai Restaurant) for dinner with a couple other adoptive families. The food was fairly good, and as always it was nice to spend time with other people walking out the same thing you are.

Libi Update - She is amazing as always. Today was another day of progress. She was doing her sit-up trick with daddy, where she grabs my hands and does assisted pull-ups on the count of 3. She continues to eat better each sitting, and was a little jealous of every bite that Amy took during dinner. By the way Amy picked up a slimy round mushroom with chopsticks. She is getting a little prideful about her new found talents. I however, have out mastered even most Chinese that we eat with by tossing peanuts across the table to Mr. Braniffs open mouth without missing once. I am not sure China was ready for the two of us. Oh yeah this was about Libi wasn't it... If you are curious how many teeth Libi has, check the pictures. Although we are going to need a good orthodontist. (Too much tongue sucking) She loves to play peak-a-boo and can pull the blanket off her face. She is very engaged with mommy, especially after bottle time. Enjoy the pictures of our continually changing beauty. We think you will find her as beautiful as we do.

Church with our Love Bug in Guangzhou

2008-05-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the first Sunday after 9-11? That is what I compare the feeling here in China to be like right now. The people are all united and hurting. Our hearts ache with theirs. Church was amazing! I loved the opportunity to praise the Father in my daughters birth country. We sang the most beautiful worship songs. Of course, the tears poured down my face as I thought of where He has brought us over the last 8 months. It seems like Libi Faith has always been here with us. I cannot imagine my life without her. It was moving to sit amongst many who were holding little rescued ones in their arms. As the closing prayer was said on behalf of all of those suffering from the earthquake, you could hear sniffles and see tears streaming down faces. Father bless and keep this country as it mourns this great tragedy...

We had a very relaxing day. Libi Faith is continuing to make great progress. She ate much better again today. We are pushing her around in this little umbrella stroller sometimes and she really likes it. Although, the ERGO carrier is the preferred method of transportation especially for sleeping. We enjoyed shopping with Ann today, a personal shopper. (thanks Millers!) She is quite a fun lady. I cannot begin to describe to you the amount of people in Guangzhou. Ann took us to a huge market area...I just can't even begin to wrap my head around the enormity of this place, let alone describe it to you. I've not been to the Mall of America, but I am sure it probably makes it look like a 7-11.

I am thankful for this time here in Guangzhou. I am ready to get home, don't get me wrong, but Libi needs this time with her mamma. I know we will bond more at home, but I feel like I can really focus on her and gain a better understanding of her culture in this time. It really is a gift. The first few days she was very restless while she slept, but the last couple of days has settled down. She usually comes into bed with us in the early morning hours and is quite content to do so. Her little things she would do to "sooth" herself are diminishing...she is allowing me to soothe her. When we were out today with our guide there were comments about Libi looking very much like our biological daughter and that she could not be 2 years old. I love these people of China, and so does my daughter! She lights up in a way like no other when the women speak to her. In church today she was straining to see the women sitting in front of us. I am sure she is missing her nannies!

I know I continue to say this, but we are so thankful for all of your prayers and support back home. We love hearing from you as you email and leave comments. You are a "lifeline" to us right now. Many of you have had dreams and visions of Libi Faith and we have been so blessed to hear about them. My sweet friend Bridget prayed along with many of you, through our waiting for Libi. She felt strongly that part of our waiting was because of who we would be here with...that is clear with our new friends, the Braniffs! We are friends for life and our story with them is just beginning. Also, she kept hearing the number 27. Maybe we would leave on the 27th...maybe we would be united with her on the 27th...well, here is the mystery revealed...Libi Faith Jia Qi was the 27th orphan to be adopted from her province this year. You can think I am crazy, but I know God spoke these things! As soon as we were told she was number 27 I screamed!!!! He speaks so we see and acknowledge Him in all of our ways. You are perfection Father, there is none like You!!!

A Day in Guangzhou

2008-05-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I think my wife has tasted first blood in the Guangzhou market. We arrived in Guangzhou late last night (sorry no posts), and spent the morning in the infamous Polyclinic. There were lots of screaming babies, sterile walls, and exam rooms, and a lot of talking that I couldn't understand (go figure). Libi sat on my lap most of the time completely unaffected by all of the surroundings. Even her hearing test was quite comical. All this noise going on around us, and they would play a toy piano or a tambourine, and Libi would kind of looked at the nurse as if to say, "I hear it, but am not interested enough to participate in these reindeer games."

We had a bit of a scare while we were there as the doctors were quite concerned that Libi was taking seizure medication. There was a long discussion between the doctor and our travel coordinator, and then they pulled us all into the main office with three more doctors and even more discussions. Finally, without notice they let us go. There was really no debrief on what the big deal was, but it left Amy very fearful for a moment. I then spent 3 hours trying to fix Libi's return flight that was booked a day after the rest of us. I guess she has already gotten pretty independent to try that eh? Anyway, after three hours of phone calls, faxes and emails, I still don't have it fixed. Please pray for this one... minor and fixable, nonetheless it is stressful and time consuming.

After all this we decided to try our hand at bartering. Wow is that fun. It's nice to perfect those skills when you are not paying $20K on a car. Just 120 RMB for a couple shirts and "oh yeah could you throw in the Olympic hat too." We are going to the real market with the Miller's secret weapon tomorrow after church. Thanks again Chard and Melissa, we love Ann already. By the way Chard, your friend at the dragon something or other is gone. There is a young girl working there now who has only been there for two months. Very smooth though. I will continue to work to get very good price on B quality watch for you. (Manderenglish) We finished the evening with dinner at the new Italian restaurant and ice cream at the Deli.

Yesterday, we wound up our trip in Fuzhou with some bowling downstairs. The lane quit working several times, and the event was quite comical, as most everything has been the last few days. We are having so much fun with our travel mates, struggling at times to maintain our sanctification because of it. (Me and Rob that is... our wives deny they even know us, and Jacob has gotten quite an education.) Just kidding. After bowling, we walked to McDonald's and had lunch. We stopped on the way, and had Libi's picture taken with the Libi's dress maker. After the trip to Mickey D's we went to the police station to get Libi's passport, and then off to the airport. We so enjoyed our travel coordinator Catherine in Fuzhou. She was a true delight. If you ever adopt for the Fujian province you are in for a treat. She is much more educated on American slang, so you won't have such a high learning curve. Please pray for her.

By the way, for those interested... we transferred to the Victory in Guangzhou, because after all I am an accountant. It was almost half the price of the White Swan, and appears to be quite worth it so far. Very nice rooms, food and still close to everything. Most all of our travel group is staying here with us.

I have created a couple slide shows for your viewing pleasure, since you would all rather look at my daughter than read my shallow narratives. We love you all...

What a pretty girl (Daddy's in trouble)

2008-05-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

This morning we had a lazy time getting her ready after a late breakfast. Here are some shots of our precious girl. You can tell from these why her daddy is mesmerized by her. Love you all, thank you for loving us. - Brad (Slide show by me too...lest you think Amy is impressed with herself.)

ANother day in Fuzhou

2008-05-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have hit exhaustion! We are ready for some "reboot" time. I don't even have time to journal. It has been like receiving a newborn and then having to run a marathon with her in your arms. Well, not that bad. We are good, just tired. I am resting when she is resting, or I am engaged in meeting a need or interacting with her. Joel and Jack get ready to help mommy ALOT!! I did not anticipate Libi being so "infant-like". It is actually a sweet thing for bonding, because she needs me for everything, but do you remember all the things you need to do and remember? All the hours I spent packing...oh, what a waste! I was so unprepared. Lesson learned for the next one. Tomorrow will be more time just here at the hotel. That will be good.

We went to the Panda zoo today. Interesting. Maybe I should just leave it at that. There were 3 pandas. We weren't there long. We then went to a tea ceremony which was very interesting and enjoyable. We also went to a Christian church. It was very beautiful. It was in the heart of Fuzhou. There are 10,000 people that come to that church on Sunday! What was so beautiful was the steeple...it said, Jesus Loves You on top. I don't have the pictures of that stuff yet because we were without our camera. Our friends took all the pictures today. Once again, such a blessing to be with them!

The cameras...somehow our battery charger for our good camera is at home. Bummer! The great thing is that we were able to get a charger this evening. It was an interesting purchase. We received a "special" price...$80...sounds reasonable huh? There was no receipt and the money went into a pocket, not ours. Anyway, we are grateful to have it.

Libi is doing so great! She continues to amaze us! She has begun to eat more and getting better at it. I did switch to soy today and took all of the advice to heart about possible reflux. It seemed to help a lot. She enjoyed therapy with daddy today. I was blown away at what she did! Brad would hold out his fingers and she would get a hold of them and he would count to 3 and pull her up. It did not take her long before she knew "3" and was using those ab muscles to pull herself and not depend on Brad. By the end of their time she had 2 new amazing "tricks".

We took the girls to have Mandarin dresses made tonight. They were so sweet getting measured! We got Izzy and Libi red dresses that are being hand sown tonight and delivered to our room tomorrow. The amazing thing is, probably the most inexpensive thing we have done since we have been here! The shop we were in was precious! The ladies were adorable! They were having me try on all kinds of dresses. It was fun. I am sure they were having more fun than I was though. They did talk me into purchasing one. Irene, I am sure your wardrobe holds a beautiful Asian gown, so we will have to take our boys out on the town in them together! Again, I am just loving the people and the culture here. I do think it is best if I don't shop. I cannot say "no" especially to these sweet people of China. I know, I have sucker written all over me! That is why I had better just stay home!!!!

We had Pizza Hut and Haagen Dazs tonight. Our guide explained to us that only the "wealthy" people would have ice cream there. I can understand that. Our ice cream was more than our dinner. I think we are still learning about how to navigate China on a budget. At pizza hut there was a"one trip" salad bar. Our guide demonstrated how people here get the MOST out of the salad bar. They build these towers of food...you will have to see the pictures. We had a lot of fun with it. Our guide, Catherine is a riot!! We are having a blast with her and our friends.

A lady approached us tonight and reiterated to us what a gift we held in our arms. She works with "un-adoptable" orphans here in China and she was so blessed by the sight of Libi in an adoptive families arms. I am telling you and will not stop...this little girl is A MIRACULOUS GIFT!!!!! We are in awe of what the Father has done and we rejoice greatly with each of you in this. We miss you all. I am ready to be back home with my boys. We are one week away from coming home. It seems like a long time, but since we have gotten Libi the days seem to go faster. Some of the slides I am putting in this post are older. I tried to label them for you...pray us through this last week, and may the Lord return the blessing to each on you 100 fold!!!!!

Every day progress

2008-05-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how my time is consumed each day. I really thought I would have more time to email and skype, so to all of you who are waiting...I am SO sorry. Like Brad just told me, I have one focus right now. It is a wonderful one too. Libi Faith is making so much progress. Her fine motor skills amaze me. I have sat with her on my lap at the computer several times, but this afternoon as I posted the last blog entry, she was on my lap again, but not with ease. She was reaching for everything. She got a pencil right away with her tiny little fingers. Tonight at dinner we were laughing at how she was grabbing at everything! Even little pieces of rice. She is eating better. She is not gagging on things. She has discovered apple juice, watered down of course, and the BMs are coming....another big event of the night...GIGGLES! Straight from the belly, and who were they for, Jacob. Sorry, Joel and Jack, but you will have your chance soon enough. Even thought Jacob is just as big as the rest of us it is like she gets that he is a kid. I love the way she looks at him. She is coming along so much. Our friends that are traveling with us have noticed huge strides and so has our coordinator. So, just wanted to let you know the progress. The panda zoo is on the agenda for tomorrow AM. I may stay back, but we will see what the morning brings. Thanks for all of the love and encouragement...we thrive on it!

A day to remember....

2008-05-12T23:50:00.000-07:00

I will start by saying, hang on! This was one of the most incredible and difficult days of my life. The start...we heard our sweet girl cry. She woke up crying this morning. It was music to our ears. I so wanted to hear that emotion from her. I thought she might be grieving, sad to wake up from sleep in an unfamiliar place, but it was just a difficult BM. Anyway, I loved being able to comfort her. She was very happy to see her family and let us know with lots of sweet smiles. She then took a shower. She did great, and smelled a whole lot better!

She was fussy at breakfast. I think she might have a little bit of reflux. There is a clinic here in the hotel so I am going to check in with them about it. I will take any advice on this one.

There is another adopting family down the hall from us that has provided the craziest things for us. The mom has come knocking on the door hand delivering things that I have just mentioned that I wished I had without knowing the need. Libi's feet are so tiny. I have no shoes or socks that will stay on...she brought some to me. She also brought a pacifier about an hour after I mentioned wishing I had brought one. One thing she brought was soy formula. I think that is my cue from the Father to give it a whirl with Libi. The crazy thing...a few moments ago I was thirsty...before I went to poor a drink she showed up at the door with a green apple soda that is popular here in China for me to try. I LOVE stuff like that! I love that He satisfies my every thirst.

We have been placed here with a precious family. I have posted a picture of their precious babe below. She reminds us a lot of Ari! They have blessed us in ways too numerous to count. We both feel like we could not be on this journey without one another. Today we saw a very great purpose in us all being brought together.

We took a visit to the orphanage here today. I thought I was some what prepared for it. I was very wrong! I want you to know I write this through much agony. I cannot quite express what I saw and felt. The eyes of the abandoned will forever haunt my mind. As we stood outside the orphanage we took a photo in front of the statue, "mother's forever love". As we moved through the doors and up the stairs nothing could have prepared my heart for what I would behold. Crib after crib of precious babies...some asleep, some soothing themselves to sleep, some with bottles propped up...all of them little treasures of a Good King. All of the little ones we saw were "special needs". (I am beginning to really despise that label.) I would have left there today with any one of those children in my arms, and I can't imagine anyone who would have been with me today would have felt otherwise. Today we saw the "healthy babies". As our guide said we did not see the "very sick" children. Those would be children like our blessed Libi Faith. It is too emotional for me to write about that now. I just sit here feeling so honored to be that little girls mother. I have been given a great and awesome gift...I will never be able to thank Him enough for my daughter...she has been rescued, and so have I....

Our next stop was even more emotional. We had the opportunity to visit a foster home that would blow you out of your chair. People that sold everything they had a few years ago and began to take in orphans. They now have 28! They are amazing servants of Him. I cannot get over what I saw. Our connection is through our friends that we are here with. Just as our sweet Libi was in a foster home of many children, their sweet baby was blessed to be in this foster home. We saw little ones who lives have been transformed by the hand of the Father. His heart is flowing in this place with incredible love and care. As you walked through the gate it was like stepping into the most peaceful haven. The stories of each of these little ones would fill a book. They encouraged our hearts as if we had been with the Father directly. We were given great hope about what Libi will be and become. They really did teach us some great ways to care for her. By the way, the last pictures of Libi so happy is her being spoken to by the foster mamma in Chinese...she LOVED her!

(just FYI...the pictures of the sweet faces after Brad with Libi asleep on his shoulder were taken at the foster home, not the orphanage)

"See that you do not look down on one of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of their Father in heaven. What do you think, if a man owns 100 sheep and 1 of them wonders away, will he not go into the hills and look for the 1 who wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about the 1 sheep than about the 99 that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost."

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my Name, welcomes me."

Do you know when you have a day when you know that nothing else will ever be the same? That day for me is today...I am broken and thankful, I am blessed...

Earthquake 2

2008-05-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

We heard from our agency this morning that the Colleges and the rest of the families are just fine here. Thanks for the prayer and concern.

Let's reflect for just a moment at two significant events in the past month. The day that we received travel approval in the US, we were wakened to an earthquake. The day that Libi Faith officially became an Arnold, there was an earthquake in China. Clearly the Lord is going to continue to shake our world with this little peanut.

Libi fell asleep last night pushing and pulling on my fingers. She is such an active little thing. She had only one little coughing spell, but otherwise has slept all night. She is a great sleeper - praise the Lord for that eh! [EPFB] PRAYER REQUEST: Libi has not had a BM since we got her, could you pray for her (and her daddy) to be successful.

We hit Mickey D's for dinner last night, and nearly screwed up ordering value meals for Pete's sake. After fussing about with the workers, finally an American college student walks up and says "you guys look like yo could use some help." Gee, is it that obvious when a 6'5, gray spotted Caucasian takes 10 minutes to order at McDonald's. With his help, we were finally able to get our food (Rob and I went out hunting for our women and children-picture it) and make our way to the hotel in the cab pointing him at every turn.

How crippling it is to be in a place that is so foreign. It should not be that hard. That darn tower of babel. Anyway, it is an adventure. We really had a great day yesterday after the official paperwork was completed. We spent most of the afternoon doing homework with Jacob and playing with our little girl. As you can see in the pictures that Amy posted earlier, she slept quite a bit too. By the way the bad hair day pictures were as she was. The was no combing, gel or manipulation involved.

SOAPBOX TIME - One thing that is becoming amazingly clear to all of us, is the unlimited potential of God to change a life. I think we all go into this unknown world of adoption and get completely frightened - I am. We see pictures of children, hear special needs labels, and kind of pick and choose what degree of challenge we are capable of handling. We even see the various countries restrict certain kids from even being available to be adopted. Now we have only begun our journey with a little child that has very small challenges ahead of her compared to many, but there is a clear message that God is communicating to us. You may be limited, but I am not. You are weak, but I am strong. You can make a machine that over time can change the shape of a mountain, but I can speak and make it flat (excuse the Caterpillar analogy).

God can take any label and remove it. We have heard testimony after testimony of bad prognosis' that God radically removes in 12 months or less. Let's take God out of the box folks, and pray hard for Him to make the mountains flat in our lives (thanks Jason.) In the area of adoption, are you saying "we have done enough." Are you fearful of the challenge of "Special Needs". I feel like we are only ankle deep in the water, and we have seen God in ways we have not seen before. We are going to go to an American foster home today, run by a fantastic couple from Florida, that is head deep in the water for the Lord. I will let you know if they say it was the wrong thing to do.

Sorry, for the diatribe, you all know my frailties, fleshly struggles and weaknesses, but I think there is a challenge before us all. Are we living for ourselves or the Lord. Are we satisfied with the happiness we can create, or do we want the JOY that He can give. Let's strip away the thoughts of labels and let pray that God would wow us all. We are already seeing signs of that in Libi's life. It is a direct result of God answering your cries on her behalf.

Thank you all so much. You are a blessng that word's cannot describe. As you can probably tell from my rambling we feel like we could accomplish anything with Him because of your prayer for us. Love you all...

Earthquake

2008-05-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet warriors...I wanted to let you all know that we felt the earthquake today, but nothing significant where we are at. We are very far from the epicenter. It was worse when we felt the one in Illinois. Please pray for the College family. They are in our travel group here and were to unite with their son at 2:00 in the city where the quake occurred at 2:30. I must admit I do not like being so far from home when things like this happen. Pray for peace for us all. Libi Faith just went to sleep and I need to head that way myself. Thank you for being there for us!!!!

Adoption Day

2008-05-12T03:49:00.000-07:00

Well, Here it is! She is officially ours!!! We are signed, sealed and delivered. We are grateful for this precious gift we have been entrusted. She is a true treasure. We know that the Lord holds a great plan and purpose for her life. We are already seeing so much change in her. She makes much more eye contact. She is smiling more, and she knows her mamma! She fell asleep on Brad and myself today. When she is out...she is toast. Her smile lights up her whole face! You at home will never know this little girl we met yesterday. In two weeks she is going to be so different. Everyone had told us this, but now we are seeing what a difference a mamma, daddy and big brother can make in a life. Thank you for your constant prayers and support. It is not the easiest road we are on, but His grace is sufficient. Love and blessings...

our first night

2008-05-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Our life verse for Libi Faih Jia Qi:

"And you will be called by a new name
Which the mouth of the LORD will designate.
You will also be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD.
And a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
It will no longer be said of you, "Forsaken,"
Nor to your land will it any longer be said, "Desolate";
But you will be called, "My delight is in her."
Isaiah 62:2-4

I will probably never be able to describe the moment I met her. It was like an out of body experience. It was very overwhelming. She was not relaxed. I thought she was, but now I have seen relaxed with her and that was not it. Everyone there was so excited. They love uniting these babies with their forever families. Again, my love for China and the people grew even more. My heart ached for her sweet nanny. I just wanted to keep placing Libi back into her arms. You could tell she loves her so much! She was glad to hear that we would be stopping by New Day before we come home. Our embrace as she left was long and painful. I am so thankful for her and her love for my daughter.

There is also another very important woman whose physical presence was not there today, but she was very much there. Libi's birth mother. How I know on this mother's day she thinks of her daughter. I pray the Father would speak so that she would know she is okay. I held those tiny little clothes and the precious note she was left with, and it was beyond what a mother's heart can handle. I thank you, for choosing life for our sweet daughter! You did a wonderful thing for her and we are forever grateful to you!!

Getting our sweet girl back to the room and stripping off her clothes was a moment! I just soaked in every inch of her sweet little body. She is like a silky, marshmallow! Her thighs are pretty chunky. I had a hard time zipping her sleeper around them. She is very playful and active. She is actually much stronger than I had anticipated. She really cannot sit up though. She arches her back a lot. She has weak abs and neck muscles. We were already making her work! She furrowed her brow at her daddy at one point as if to say, that is enough, weirdo! She is the most content little thing. She makes lots of noises. She loves to do this little high pitched squeal. She loves music. The really cool thing she does, is clap on command. It is so cute! I was laying with her on the bed and she loved touching my hair. I think the hair is going to have to stay long and down for awhile. She holds it a lot, especially when she had her bottle. She did great with the bottle, not so great with the yogurt. She struggles with sitting. Texture is hard for her, because she really doesn't chew, just sucks.

She slept on me and Jacob for awhile. We tried her in the bed with us but the just could not get comfortable. Then, they brought a crib to us. It seems like a board in the bottom. As soon as I laid her in it she was comfy and OUT!!! She is all cuddled up with her blanket on her tummy. Again, mommy goals here. trying to keep her on her tummy.

Thank you for all of your prayers. You will never know how strongly they are felt. Continue to pray for health for Libi. We think she may have had another mild seizure on the way here. It could have been stress. These next few days will not be easy for her though. We know every detail is in His hands and we have seen it in abundance!

Gotcha

2008-05-11T02:50:00.000-07:00

Well, the awaited day has come and the hour appointed by God from the foundation of the world has come to pass. Libi Faith Jia Qi is an Arnold. What an emotional day this has been. It started out very peaceful, breakfast with our new friends talking about the day, to walking around aimlessly in Fuzhou trying to kill some time. We had a small time of prayer and devotional with the Braniff's, then with no warning a whirlwind of activity occurred.

Our travel coordinator came in and said that Libi was downstairs. We quickly grabbed our stuff and took off to the 3rd floor of the hotel in the conference room. Amy got ahead of me, as I was running behind her trying to get the camera re-wound and hand it off to Rob (Braniff). She went into the room ahead of me, and as we walked in it was like an out of body experience. We have seen nothing but pictures and a small amount of video of her, and here she was live and in the flesh. It was so incredibly peaceful though as Amy took her. She was little stiff at first, but quickly settled in to her and was peaceful.

Both her nanny from New Day and her nanny from the Fujian orphanage were there, and they were quite emotional. Clearly, they both love her dearly. We were able to get them and the Orphanage officials before we left.

We stripped her down to her diaper, and just played with her. Seeing what she feels like, how she smells, and what she can do. That turned into the Baba Arnold boot camp. After a little while she got a little frustrated with me for pushing her too hard. So we just sat and watched her.

She is a precious gift from God. The appointed time has come and past. We are incredibly grateful. Thank you to all who have prayed

A Wife of Noble Character - I have Found

2008-05-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

I kept thinking this morning on mother's day, among all the other thoughts that have run through my head, "A Wife of Noble Character - I have found." Of course that answer is of the question that is in the 10th verse of Pr. 31. I have found her. I think of all the ways that God could honor my wife on a day set aside for recognition of a mother's life - to give her another child. Wow, how about that. Can someone give me an amen?

Today, more than any other mother's day, she proves herself faithful to those verses..."Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm all the days of her life...She sets about her work vigorously, her arms are strong for her tasks...She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy...She is clothed with strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue... Her children rise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he PRAISES HER. Many women do noble things, but my Amy surpasses them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised (By the way you have all three). Give her the REWARD she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

I love you Amy Malynn Arnold, you are worthy to boast of. May this be the most blessed Mother's day you have ever experienced.

Tiena min Square/ Forbidden City/ Faces of China

2008-05-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today was yet another fascinating day in China. It is very late, so we will be brief. I am amazed at how quickly the days fly by here. We went to Tiena min Square, the Forbidden City and a silk factory. We continue to be amazed by the how "larger than life" things are. Tiena min Square is GINORMOUS!!! We had no idea how huge it is or the size of the Forbidden City. Most of my pictures today were of the children. They have our hearts, for sure! there is a picture of Brad and I in front of a unique tree that has a very romantic story behind it. It is called the tree of foever love...I will share the story with all of my sappy friends when we get home. We enjoyed our time with our new friends here. We will unite with our daughters together tomorrow, just one more thing to make it harder to say good-bye to them! The culture here is absolutely captivating. We feel like sponges just trying to soak up any bit of history we can. It makes me feel so proud for our daughter that she has such an amazing home country. We hated to say good-bye to our guide today. She is so knowledgeable and we seriously did not have to make one decision about anything. She spoiled us!

We arrived in Fuzhou, the capital city of Libi Faith's province at 9:00 PM. We then had an hour drive to our hotel. Once again, the size and expanse of the city is not what I had anticipated. Our hotel is quite beautiful. I cannot wait until the morning to see the Lake. We will post some pictures.

My heart is so full of peace. Tonight it was hard to hear some of the realities of Libi's precious life up until now. We were shown her "finding ad". It is so difficult to think about what her mother must have gone through as she choose to leave her that day...too much to put into words right now. The picture in my slides of the mother with her baby wrapped up in her arms struck a chord in my heart today for Libi's mother. We were very happy to hear that we should receive the note that was left with her and the clothes she had on. Her new life begins tomorrow...3:00-4:00 is the anticipated event of her being birthed into our arms forever. It is later than we had originally anticipated so all of you back home will probably have to wait until the early hours of Mother's Day to celebrate with us! You have been such a great support to us through all of your comments and prayers. We are having such an amazing time and feel so at rest with everything!

First full day in China

2008-05-09T06:09:00.000-07:00

I love this country! I am captivated by the people here. They are so kind and warm. I love showing them our picture of Libi Faith that is tied to our backpack. As soon as we show the picture they know that we are in China to adopt and they are so excited and happy. Of course, we are getting the most adorable little girl in China. :) I so wish that I could carry on a conversation with them. This country has so much cultural pride. I am blown away by the business and continual labor seen everywhere as they are preparing for the Olympic games. They are working so hard to give the world their BEST. The world will be drawn in, for sure. Beijing in and of itself, is quite the city. 18 million people living here.

We had the wonderful privilege of seeing the Great Wall today. Because we are hooked up with the most incredible tour guide, we went to a less popular spot of the wall. It was very quiet and peaceful. It was not what you would expect. In fact, we rode up to the wall in a cable car, not such a big deal...but how we got down, that is another story. We took individual toboggans and slid down. It was quite fun. I was on Jacob's tail the whole time! He wasn't quite fast enough for his crazy mom. Let me tell you that toboggan cornered like it was on rails!!! Joel and Jack you would have loved that part.

We have enjoyed the other families in our tour group immensely. There are 6 other families. For me it has made this whole thing even more real and exciting. As we huffed and puffed climbing the wall today we teased with one another that we were doing quite well for being 9 months pregnant. One of the families has a darling little blonde haired blue eyed 5 year old daughter. It is like walking around with Shirley Temple. Everyone here wants to touch her and have pictures with her.

Tonight we went to see a Chinese Acrobat show that was quite amazing. Have you ever seen 12 women on one bike? The lady who could pretty much bend in half backwards was a little disturbing, and I had to look away. At the show we met 3 families who were sitting behind us that would soon be uniting with their sweet little ones. It is so amazing to share in this experience with others.

Now the food...I think I was destined to eat it. I LOVE it! We have had the most amazing meals. We will see what the rest of our stay has in store, but so far, I am glad we have had a lot of exercise because the way I'm eating, it could get ugly fast. I am tired, but I am not sensing any "jet lag". I just feel ready for bed. Thank you for praying! It is abundantly clear that we are so covered by all of you. Jacob is SACKED on the couch. He has really enjoyed his time also. We had a lot of fun being "bus buddies" and chatting on our bus rides. I could go on for much longer, but I have 2 boys that are already OUT and I am heading that way.

We love you all! You have no idea how much we LOVE hearing from each of you. It means more than you know!

a day in Beijing

2008-05-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I wanted to take a minute before we head out for the day and first tell you how wonderful it is to hear from each of you here in China! (Yes, that is an exclamation point, Barton, and there will be many more!!) I am so excited to be here. I can't quite describe the feeling. I find myself staring out the window at the people doing their morning exercises, and I am so intrigued about them and their life. I know we have not seen or experienced much yet, but I am so ready to embrace my daughters home. I have never felt such peace or certainty over anything in my whole life! It is such a peaceful confidence of being right in the moment you are to be in by Divine design. My biggest crisis has been not having a hairdryer this morning. :) What a crisis. Depending on the situation with the hair it could be major...anyway, I love being here with my "big guys", but I am missing my little men back at home. Thank you to the Shaw's for loving on them. Thank you for all of your love, support and prayers. If you struggle to post you can use my email: amymarnold@comcast.net

We are off to see the Great Wall!!! I cannot wait. Tonight is a big dinner and Chinese acrobats.

3 more days to Libi Faith!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am in a constant state of thinking and praying for her, wondering how close in proximity I actually am to her!! I can' think about that too much or I'm going to have to go get her!

We're Here

2008-05-08T03:54:00.000-07:00

For two weeks, Amy asked me if I was going to purchase the Economy Plus Access fee that would get us an additional 5" of leg room on the Chicago to Beijing route. I delayed, and Ray Sanders prayed. Guess what? We got the seats for free. We boarded the plane and looked up to see ourselves in the section we nearly paid $700 more sit in. Praise the Lord.

Our drive up to Chicago was excellent, thanks to the Starbucks and fellowship. Don't tell Barton, but we were plenty early, and had time to walk around looking for a movie rental shop. At one point I actually stopped and asked someone for directions. She looked at me as if to say, "You must be outchor mind!" We eventually found one, but neither bought nor rented anything. We grabbed some lunch and boarded the plane. After our praise for the extra leg room we waited on the tarmack and back to the gate for a total of 2 hours of delays. Not to worry, because we really had nothing urgent to do once we arrived. The flight went well overall, we cleared customs quickly, and we were met by Angela, our Beijing based travel coordinator, once clearing through customs.

We are aleady amazed by the people and the culture. We are a little sleepy, fairly hungary, so food and bed sound like great options about now. Thanks for the prayer, love and support. Talk to you all soon.

Libi Faith...here we come!

2008-05-05T15:13:00.001-07:00

Little one in purple hearts! What a precious baby!

So here is the timeline....

KEEP IN MIND THAT CHINA IS 13 HOURS AHEAD OF US!!!

May 7th 12:43 PM fly out of O'Hare

May 8th 3:30 PM arrive in Beijing

We will see the sights of Beijing and then we will leave for Fuzhou, the capital city of our sweet little girls province, on the 10th. We arrive in Fuzhou on the evening of the 10th.

May 11th...GOTCHA DAY!!!!!!!!!! Mother's Day, our sweet Libi Faith Jia Qi will be birthed into our arms forever! What a day of rejoicing that will be! It should be in the AM hours. Specifics on that will come later.

Also, on May11th the Olympic Torch is to pass through Fuzhou. Our hope is to see it with our little girl in our arms.

May 12th- 16th we will continue our stay in Fuzhou filing out paperwork.

May 16th or 17th we will head to Guangzhou. Here is where we will finish it all and finalize the adoption.

May 21st fly to Beijing in the morning to spend time at New Day Creations, Libi's foster home.

May 22nd 4:20PM leave Beijing for Chicago...arrive in Chicago one minute later! Figure that one out?

Once again, I find myself at a loss for words to express my gratitude to all of you. The prayers and support continue to blow us away! We have never experienced anything like this. We hope and pray that God will give us opportunity to bless each of you in the way you have blessed us.

I feel like I am taking hundreds with me on this journey. I have said before, God has given us an ARMY! So we go forth to rescue our precious babe, and we take each of you with us. We covet each prayer and look forward to your encouragement while we are in China.

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ."

Ephesians 1:3

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! part 2

2008-04-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know that I can even begin to describe this day. This has been the most incredible birthday celebration EVER!!! God in His Marvelous love lavished us and our sweet girl with almost too much love to handle. Have you ever been so overwhelmed with love? Today was one of those days when I was sure the Lord had the wrong person...Um, God, It's Amy Arnold here, were you looking for someone else to richly bless with abundant love and friendship??? I had a pedicure today and a SURPRISE little birthday brunch, a wonderful celebration with family...China Buffet of course! And, you know what came today...first thing this morning? Libi Faith's airplane ticket home. What a gift!! In the midst of feeling so blessed, I can't help but be in awe of the wonder of this little Libi Faith. We don't really know her, yet she has all of our hearts so captivated. We are only days away now from bringing our sweet baby home and the wonder of my love for her will grow even stronger. I cannot begin to express my gratitude and praise to my Father for all of you. You will never begin to know how deeply we feel for each of you, our family and friends who give us 150% of your love, support and prayers. May the Lord return the blessing to you 100 fold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! Part 1

2008-04-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

Be sure to post or email a birthday blessing. I am going to put together a little book for her as a keepsake.

When the director of her orphanage went to greet her with a birthday kiss from us she said she was just grumbling away about something...she thinks she is wondering where we are. I think she was saying, "It's my birthday", in Eeyore style!We will post part 2 of our celebrating later!! This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!!!!

Our sweet Birthday Girl!!!!

April 28th

Today is your birthday sweet girl! We miss you much today and cannot wait to kiss your sweet cheeks. We are less than 2 weeks from holding you forever. You have blessed our life so much already...so, today on your birthday we wish you many blessings and we thank our Great God for the amazing gift of YOU!!!

Libi Faith Jia Qi
my heart confidence, belief beautiful fine jade

Selah and Shaylee displaying their Birthday banner for Libi Faith!!

Mark. Bridget, Selah and Shaylee...neighbors who are teaching us much as we prepare for our China babe...

Aren't they precious!? You should have seen these 2 carrying ice cream cones down to the house for Miss Amy and Mr Brad the other night...licking them ALL the way...aren't those the best kind?

Bridget made me a blessing blanket for Libi Faith. Inside it, on a piece of linen are special scriptures and words of blessing for our sweet baby! THANK YOU BRIDGET!

Ari Visits last weekend

2008-04-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

We had a visit with Ari last weekend. It is amazing to me how much she grows and changes between each visit.

My thoughts and feelings about Ari are often hard to put into words. There is one thing about Ari I KNOW! She is our little girl and will forever be our 4th child.

The depth of our love for her makes it so difficult to not share the 24x7 of life with her. When she comes to visit us the reality of that loss is HUGE! The truth of it all is...we wouldn't change it. God has purpose and plan. A friend encouraged me with these words recently, she is right where God wants her, to want her anywhere else is selfish? You see, it would not be what is best for her.

I cannot tell you how happy her mom is! She loves her sweet Ari so much. Ari has changed and impacted many lives, including mine, her mom's and most of yours! It is Ari that God used as a tool to show Himself to her mom for the first time. You know what? God isn't about to stop! She has been, and will continue to be used by God to make an impact for His kingdom.

I feel so blessed and privileged to be her "Mommy Amy"! As a mommy it is not easy to "share" that role. I think that is because we really weren't designed to share it. So, in that I see it is God that enables my heart to do what is not "natural". Do you know how important this is. Not only for Ari, but for Libi Faith. They both have "mommies". They both need to love their "mommies". I am a huge part of giving them the freedom to do that.

The Lord has used our precious Ari to prepare us for her sweet sister Libi Faith. Believe me, Ari gets it that she is coming, and she knows right where she is going to have her sit! She tells us, "she is going to sit RIGHT HERE!" and pats her hands on her lap! She also thinks she is going on the plane with us to get her... :) I cannot wait for the day when my 2 little girls meet! I can just imagine their reactions...one will be loud and overwhelming, the other having a very furrowed brow...you can guess which is which.

We will be leaving in just 10 days! I will post more details soon....

Thank you for sharing in this with us. It makes it so much more fun!!!

SAVIOR HE CAN MOVE THE MOUNTAINS!!!

2008-04-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

You have joined with us in this! So join us in praise!

2 Corinthians 1
2Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
The God of All Comfort
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,
4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.
7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
8We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.
9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

He gave us that appointment and He did it in "STYLE"...so that none other can take claim for it. We received the earliest possible appointment time...Monday the 19th. We will be with a whole other group from our agency that we are already in love with, each of these families are becoming dear to us! It looks as though we will leave on the 7th...I will have more definite times by the end of the day. So...I must be short so that I can book some tickets...

My GOD is MIGHTY TO SAVE!!
He ROSE and CONQUERED the grave!!
I give my life to follow EVERYTHING I believe in!
Savior He can move the mountains...
Forever Author of SALVATION!

Shine your light and let the WHOLE WORLD SEE...WE"RE SINGING FOR THE GLORY OF THE RISEN KING!!!!!!!!!!! JESUS!!

This is the praise song our day opened with in the AM carpool...not sure all of the children enjoyed Mrs. Arnold's singing, but my God did. :)

Join us in Prayer

2008-04-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking tonight that I would put a plea out to our ARMY! Would you join us in praying that we would receive our appointment date from the US Consulate tomorrow. We are on hold to book airline tickets and make definite travel plans until this appointment is set. Keep in mind...when we are asleep China is awake, so if the Lord should awaken you tonight pray for that appointment to be sent to our agency! You all bless our lives so richly! It is a JOY to travel this road with each of you. Thank you for praying....

Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

Luke 14:14 "You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."

We have seen our Lord move the heavens and the earth for our Libi Faith and we believe He will once again. Consulate Appointment come quickly...release it LORD!

On another note...the Lord gave me a sweet song this morning that expressed where my heart was with Him. It was new to me, so I thought I would share it with you. I am not a big fan of the lady who sings it...my apologies if you are...

LOVELY

You're the sweet dreams that soothe me
when I can't fall asleep.
You're the field
in the middle of the city.
When I'm rushing by
at the speed of light.

You're the strong resolution
when I find no peace.
You're the church bells ringing
in the evening.
When all is quiet,
Your whisper comfort
lifts my heart.
I get so weak.

Ohhh.... You're lovely, lovely
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A thousand times
I look around me and I find...

Ohh... you're lovely. (lovely)
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A million ways
cannot explain,
you're lovely.

You're the soft words that touch me
when I just can't speak.
You're the breeze on the ocean
in the morning,
reminding me
to greet the day.

You're the flowers I remember
seeing in Italy.
Colors through

a golden haze,
bright and radiant,
soft and fragrant
In the noon day sun,
it makes me sing.

Ohh... You're lovely, lovely
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A thousand times
I look around me and I find...

Ohh... You're lovely, lovely
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A million ways
cannot explain
You're lovely.

I understand...
There may be grief
and there may be pain.
But I am aware
You blind the darkness
with who You are
because...

Ohh... You're lovely, lovely
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A thousand times
I look around me and I find...

Ohh... You're lovely, lovely
You're the center of my universe.
(my universe)
A million ways
cannot explain
You're lovely.

CELEBRATING TRAVEL APPROVAL!!!

2008-04-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

We had a great time celebrating together at a fun restaurant...KOBE. It's a Japanese Steakhouse where the chef prepares your food in front of you. It was a new experience for us. We laughed a lot! It was the perfect way to celebrate such a wonderful day.

Thank you for your wonderful comments...it's so fun sharing our news with you. We will post the details of our travel soon. We are hoping to leave on the 6th of May and return around the 23rd. By the way, if these dates stand, our Gotcha Day (the day we will unite with our daughter) will be Mother's Day! Is Our God perfection!?

Meet me at the end of the World - just a song...

2008-04-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

My Rhapsody Playlist

The first time I heard this song I thought of my sweet Libi Faith...now the time has come and we will meet her at the end of the world and start the rest of our lives together!!!

I will post details of our night of celebration soon.

Thank you ALL SO much for your comments, prayers and encouragement. We love taking each of you with us on this journey! You make it so much more fun!!

LYRICS:

First act I wake to find the hope

To see you simply staring back at me

But still there's only emptiness calling

To break the dream I once believed

Now I'm scared that this reality Is much too heavy for me

I'm too weak to be strong, I can't be the only one

Holding on till the day you find me

So meet me at the end of the world

I'm waiting

Meet me at the end of the world

Please save me

This could be the place where we start

The rest of our lives, rest of our life

Meet me at the end, the end of the world

Meet me at the end of the world

You found the place I hide within

Like you see right through my skin

And my heart to see I'm hopelessly wishing

You can forgive all my mistakes

Take them back and just erase all the wrong and let our future get brighter

Till these shadows disappear

I still wait to find you here

Still I'm haunted from the moment, I feared, oh

Never forget what it's like

To surrender in your eyes

Holding on till the day you find me

So meet me at the end of the world

I'm waiting

Meet me at the end of the world

Please save me

This could be the place where we start

The rest of our lives, rest of our life

TRAVEL APPROVAL!!!

2008-04-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Today God ROCKED our world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God woke us with an earthquake this morning...do I need to say more? We have travel approval. He has ordered every part of this process and we are overwhelmed! We are on our way to celebrate so this is short.... WE ARE ON OUR WAY TO BRING OUR DAUGHTER HOME!!!!

Psalm 68
1 May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him.
2 As smoke is blown away by the wind, may you blow them away; as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God.
3 But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful.
4 Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds his name is the LORD— and rejoice before him.
5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.
6 God sets the lonely in families, he leads forth the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.
7 When you went out before your people, O God, when you marched through the wasteland, Selah
8 the earth shook, the heavens poured down rain, before God, the One of Sinai, before God, the God of Israel.
9 You gave abundant showers, O God; you refreshed your weary inheritance.
10 Your people settled in it, and from your bounty, O God, you provided for the poor.

11 The Lord announced the word, and great was the company of those who proclaimed it:

17 The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands; the Lord has come from Sinai into his sanctuary.
18 When you ascended on high, you led captives in your train; you received gifts from men, even from the rebellious— that you, O LORD God, might dwell there.

19 Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah
20 Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death.
24 Your procession has come into view, O God, the procession of my God and King into the sanctuary.
25 In front are the singers, after them the musicians; with them are the maidens playing tambourines.
26 Praise God in the great congregation; praise the LORD in the assembly of Israel.

32 Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth, sing praise to the Lord, Selah
33 to him who rides the ancient skies above, who thunders with mighty voice.
34 Proclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the skies.
35 You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!