Summer Time in Corsica

Castles...2 days

2011-07-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

We are making our way back to Paris to fly out Sunday...I still can't believe our time here is coming to an end.

We stopped in some towns along the way that have Castles! Vianden, Luxembourg and Bouillon, Belgium. The other day Sadie said, "Daddy, I am going to have a big party and you are going to dance with me, ok?" It was very funny to see her reaction when we came across a castle.

roman ruins and sweet friends...3 days

2011-07-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

We are in Trier, Germany for a company meeting and are thankful for being able to visit friends one last time before heading to Houston. Unfortunately, I did not get very many photos of everyone.

In Trier there is ancient ruins from the Roman, its crazy that they were able to get so far north, the Roman Empire was huge.

Sadie was not too happy about singing for everyone. When they sang "If you are happy and you know it..." she just shook her head no.

foreign language....4 days

2011-07-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...sometimes when you read foreign languages out loud they can sound like english words. Germans...

our renault....5 days

2011-07-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

This was our lovely car...we are proud of her! She made the whole 2 years, she scared us a few times but it was always ok.

Neighbors...6 days

2011-07-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

This wasn't today but some good memories I want to have from last week.

This was our direct neighbor across the hall, Daria. She was too sweet to us and in the photo below is our upstairs neighbor, Chloe.

Not a neighbor but Francesca worked down the road from us. isn't she cute.

Francesca, Matt & Loic

And goodbye water...we stopped at the beach on the way to the hotel. So pretty.

Hello Paris! Sadie found herself a Pink Eiffel Tower!

Goodbye Corte....7 days left

2011-07-10T04:22:00.000-07:00

Today we officially leave Corsica. We head to Paris for a night and then get to drive across France & Luxembourg to Trier, Germany for a week long company meeting before heading to Houston. Bittersweet. Corte has taught us many things as a family, many trials and blessings. 1/2 of our marriage has been spent here an 1/2 of Sadie's life. I wonder if she will remember any of it. We welcomed a son into our family, Sadie attended school when she didn't even know the language, Corsica gave me a best friend for life, we fell in love with it's beauty, and welcomed its individuality. What I love the most is that it taught me the simplicity of Life, teaching me how to free up most of my time spent on un-needed things and which enables me to focus more of what the Lord has for me for Each day. The present day. I saw God in His creation and the beauty of His power. Sometimes its seems like a quick 2 years, other times it seems like the end would never come. We learned and lived. We tried and grew in our experience. We have had our eyes opened a little bit wider. I believer that wisdom comes from trails and experience...hopefully maturity will start to surface now. Being rather secluded and alone, our experience forced us to depend on something other then ourselves and man, and it strengthen our faith, it forced me from a introvert to a extrovert and gave us relationships that taught us more then we are even aware of right now. Our time in Corsica, most importantly has given me a Bible that has not seen such wear and tear. Tired and True.We are ready for the next adventure God takes us on...shaken but not empty. Stronger together.

our beloved town for the past 2 years.....

This is Corte. In the center you see the Citadel, which is actually up quite High. Corte seems like it was just dropped in the center of mountains. They call it 'the bowl' of Corsica...among other things. It's the coldest in winter and hottest in Summers.

This is a closer look at it.

small towns, afternoon cafes, beauty.....still 8 days

2011-07-09T05:18:00.000-07:00

We ate staying at our Friend, Annette's, B&B for our last days here so that we can clean out our apartment. She lives about 10 minutes from us in Poggio de Venaco. Her village is one of my favorites and the surrounding villages are just so pretty. I love the vibe.

I love this photo for so many reasons....1st the Corsican just siting outside reading the paper, of course the beautiful flowers going up the stairs, the cool fly-catcher door beads, the blue shutters and the house being built into a rock! So typical.

This always make us laugh...instead of going in together and building one common extension, they have to do Along, one unit at a time. And the outcome always looks like this.

Above the local produce store. and below the local cafe which sits right on the road.

This is Poggio du Venaco from a distance in the photo below. You can see the chapel up on the hill.

cobble stone roads, old stores, alley ways.....8 days

2011-07-09T02:37:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

These were all taken in our town, Corte, as we took an afternoon stroll.

Salad au Cheve Chaud... still 9 days

2011-07-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day

yummy yummy salad with goat chees (a lots of it!) with little toast to smoother it on...

gorcery isles.....still 9 days

2011-07-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

cheese & yogurts isles!

{just one of the yogurt isles...)

Surprise Party....9 days

2011-07-08T04:27:00.000-07:00

Boy do we feel special and so undeserving of such an awesome Goodbye! Some friends of ours through us a surprise party last night! I still cant believe how sweet that was of them. Last night around 10pm, yes 10pm...we are on French time remember... there was a knock at our door to come up stairs to the main part of the B&B we are staying at, and they are decorated it and had a beautiful Cake and lots of friends! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you to everyone who did this for us.....without our friends that gave us here, I do not think we would have made it the full 2 years. God knew what he was doing. We are blessed.

They even got us a huge Corsican Goodie Basket! I looove it!

Even an ablum with photos from everyone. how special is that!

We were clearly instructed to hang this up in Texas. Above the Texas flag at that. If you though Texas Pride was strong.....you need to meet an Corsican.

Dulcis Cafe.....still 10 days

2011-07-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

most people here have 'their' cafe where they meet their buddies and have the ~~daily~~ bi-daily coffee, aperitif, 4pm gouter (snack)...etc. We were very fortunate to get hooked up and introduced to Dulcis Cafe in the very beginning. They are the cutest corsican couple and have been very sweet to our family...and very patient with our language abilities. I may be biased but they have The best corsica pastries, especially the Migliacci (bread baked with corsican cheese! my absolute favorite!). Today was a first Goodbye and we gave them the typical AND REAL french kiss goodbyes.....I hate goodbyes.

We also met some friend there to have one more delicious lunch!

John Paul and Marie Lou.

The Migliacci!

And their beautiful daughters that Sadie adores.

Just haning out....10 days

2011-07-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

I love lazy evenings just hanging out. I am determined not to lose them once returning to non-stop US of A. Last night we has some friends over in our new crib for the next few days.

it must be cool (?)

late dinners...still 11 days

2011-07-06T15:08:00.000-07:00

and extra memory of the day....

10pm Dinners with one if my favorite families....

Gardens...11 days

2011-07-06T02:58:00.000-07:00

Hazy early morning walks with beautiful gardens that i dream of having one day...through I will never have the climate and soil that is so so rich here. I love look at everyones hard work start to show off. They can be so creative here in some tight places, side o hills, water edges...

my memory of the day...

boules....12 days

2011-07-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

it is a extremely popular game here played by the Corsican...they take it really seriously. It is fun to watch the older men play and argue and hang out all day. It is about the same concept as 'washers' for those of you from Texas!

Picnics....13 days

2011-07-04T03:35:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

cherry trees...14 days

2011-07-03T03:29:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day..

Picking delicious cherries from friends trees. The climate here is great for fruit trees. They are so yummy and juicy...as see Sadie could not even get some in the bag, she just kept pickin' and eatin'.

Road Blocks...15 days

2011-07-02T03:06:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

large tourist buses + small winding lands = road blocks! And everyone getting out to help.

blue waters...16 days

2011-07-01T07:22:00.000-07:00

and mountains....

my memory of the day

friends...17 days

2011-06-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

lucie and her sister coming from their village to visit! and then going to the river...

weird flavors...18 days

2011-06-29T01:42:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

Bacon, Peanut and goat cheese Bugles and Chicken Potato Chips!

colors...19 days

2011-06-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

corsica ferries....20 days

2011-06-27T09:07:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

THE river....21 days

2011-06-26T04:44:00.000-07:00

which is walking distance from our apartment! oh how I will miss that. There are actually 3 rivers that run through our small village and each of them are beautiful. They have large rocks and several natural pools that are life saviors during the hot months with no AC (luckily it only last about a 1-1/2 month. I remember last july when it got really real hot...too hot to stay inside, too hot to go out side. EVERY afternoon we would meet up with friend and take a dip. As the locals say. "it very fresh" (directly translated). I guess we would say "its very refreshing". On some parts the water is still really cold becuase we are still pretty high up on a mountain and its from the snow melting but its feels wonderful. Please nudge me if you see me dozing off in the Texas Heat.....you will know what I a dream about.

My memory of the day...

dinners outside....22 days

2011-06-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

With friends of course! I love eating out and the lovely breeze that comes with sunset. I love the hospitality of the owners and servers. Tonight he brought bubbles out to the kids and blew them.

my memory of the day....

snow capped mountains...23 days

2011-06-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

views of snow capped mountains...all year long.

running into friends all the time...24 days

2011-06-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

we live in a very small town in the mountains and when just going for a walk or to the grocery store, we run into several friends...This was a evening walk today.

icecream places...25 days

2011-06-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

Pizza Trucks....26 days

2011-06-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

There are pizza trucks all over and the pizza is really different then in the states. I didn't like it at first but now it will be greatly missed.

old bridges...27 days

2011-06-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day..

clothes lines...28 days

2011-06-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

Its very rare to have dryers here and the majority of people live in apartment buildings.

walking everywhere...29 days

2011-06-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

my memory of the day...

The weather and distance here permits us to be able to walk everywhere...I will really miss it and the beautiful mountains as backdrops....

30 Days left

2011-06-17T05:56:00.000-07:00

We have 30 days left until we land in the States. Though I could not be more excited to start the next chapter God has for us and see family and friends after 2 years.......I am really, really sad to leave this beautiful place. I am going to try and share a photo(s) of the day for our last days here....from some reason it makes me feel better to share some things that I love and will really miss with you!

My memory of the day....This is walking down our street to 'downtown'.

Houston in 2.5 months!

2011-04-28T04:50:00.000-07:00

So the big question...what's next? On 7/17 we land in Houston! We really want to be with family there for a little while and we want to work along some ministries there that are in the prevention/recovering of sex trafficked victims. One in particular you can pray for is Freedom Place. It will be the first recovery house of its kind in Texas and they are trying to be up and running by this fall. We have found a foreclose near downtown that we are looking into. It needs a lot of work but is a big house that could host some for these girls when needed which is heavy on our hearts. We recently learned that foreign women who were brought to the US, who give any information to the police on their 'pimps' can receive citizenship . But they may not speak the language, have any relatives, and are in desperate need of love and help to fit back into society.

I am not sure how we will get this house move in condition or how long it would take or even if we get...we are leaving this up to the father. If you know of any good inspectors/renovators/

electricians/have any advice, please send them/it our way! We are also on the look out for used furniture/kitchen appliances/etc. for the house becuase we sold all of ours before coming to France. And we are brainstorming about some jobs that would help us get started, especially if Matt needs to work on the house full time. If you have any leads on any nanny jobs/daycare positions (or anything at that!) let me know. You can email me at ksummers@gmail.com

We are really excited to see you in Houston!

Sartene

2011-04-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our last Easter here in Corsica and it was bittersweet. We are really excited to start the next chapter we feel the Lord is leading us too but very sad to leave this place and our friends. This Easter we visited the 'heart' of Corsica's Easter procession in Sartene. They mimic Jesus' walk for 2 hours though the village on Good Friday. There is a man, who you see in red in photos below, that 'nobody' knows who he is. It is a secret because once he does the walk, his sins are gone. And there are huge crowds that walk with them. Often people will wait on the waiting list for 40 years to be give this opportunity.

Their Easter here is like our county fair...its guarantied to rain.

Around the village of Sartene, which is in the South of Corsica.

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Ma Belle Mere a Paris

2011-04-24T02:52:00.000-07:00

After Matt's mom trip to Corsica....we {yes that includes me!) said Goodbye to the kiddos and headed to Paris for a day. In order to make the flight out of Paris back to Texas early in the Morning you have to stay a night in Paris, so they went a day early to explore and thanks to my hubby...I got to tag along with then to help navigate. It was a blast.

Drinking Angelina's Famous Hot Chocolate

We loved all the flowers...

beautiful...

We didnt have time to make it over to the Sacré Coeur, but you can see it in the distance. This is from the top of the Eifel.

We have visiters...

2011-04-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Matt's Mom and Friend, Debbie came to see us! It has been a blessing showing them around our town, seeing our life and meeting some of our friends. Sadie was so too happy discovering that her grandma doesn't just live in the computer!

So far we have explored some small Villages, including my good friend Lucie's & her family. We introduced them to Raclette with some friends and had dinner with Annette and her father. Saw lots of old churches and had some good Corsican pastries.

Haha, we made them hold their bellies and touch the maternity goodess.

Going over the river that spilts our town.

We pitched in with Matt's siblings and surprise them with a stay at Annette's B&B.

Lucie's Grandma....she is hilarious.

Picking some oranges.

Raclette!

Goodbye Claudia

2011-04-01T03:04:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends here in Corsica left to do an internship. I am really sad not to be able to have our coffee dates and late night movies & popcorn (no butter). ;) But we had a great Goodbye party at our house!

I miss you Clau!!

They are both standing straight up....

thats better....

Sadie missing her Daddy

2011-03-20T06:19:00.000-07:00

While Matt was in Ethiopia, I was laying down with Sadie and she started whining for her daddy....I wanted to get it om video for him so I grabbed the camera. This is what happens when she gets in front of a camera.

Parties and Parties...Catch Up 4 of 5

2011-03-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

Sadie Turns 3! We had some of Sadie's Friends er to over Celebrate!

Parties and Parties...Catch Up 3 of 5

2011-03-04T00:40:00.000-08:00

Birthday Parties! We love birthdays Parties around here. January 13th was my good friend, Claudia's Bday! And we had a party for her at our house...its always fun to see how many people we can cram into it.

Also in January we traveled to our Friend Alexia's, Mom's Village for a surprise Part for Fillip. Sadie has a good time with the older kids.......I had too.

In December we celebrated with one of Sadie's good friends who is just a month older then her. They had a blast with the Pinata.

Parties and Parties...Catch Up 2 of 5

2011-02-22T00:07:00.000-08:00

We got to spend Christmas with a good friend, Fillip, and his Mother and sister. It was a lot of fun to take the train down to where they are living and stay the night on Christmas Eve. We got to taste traditional Portuguese Christmas dinner/lunches and desserts. boiled potatoes and cabbage and Cod fish for Christmas Eve, and the left overs for Christmas Lunch....And LOTS of deserts and fruits.

Parties and Parties...catch up 1 of 5

2011-02-19T00:55:00.000-08:00

December and January were months of celebration...and not just Christmas but also lots of birthdays! It was bittersweet being our last Christmas in Corsica, so we tried to soak in all the activities and snow! (though I still detest the cold) This is downtown Corte, where they had a Christmas Parade for the children.

some of Sadie's Friends.

Here's a little video of it. One of our friends was Mickey Mouse (and another one Dora, who Sadie hit in the face out of fear but I dont have that on video!)...it was quite funny. Sadie is still very frighten by these large creatures. And Yes there is a character named, Oui-Oui (Wee-Wee). And of course Matt makes jokes at his expense.

Gotcha Day 02/12/11....One Less

2011-02-13T00:18:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all your prayers....Tatian and Sadie are playing together as I write, Tatian laughing at everything move Sadie makes and Sadie still trying to figure all this out. They arrived safety yesterday afternoon. I think Matt may sleep for a few days but Tatian was up bright and early checking everything out.....That was ok bc I had some GOOD Ethiopia coffee that Matt brought home! I am still in awe of how God orchestrated it all. There was so much we where unaware of...so many unknowns and so much waiting but our gracious Father in Heaven provided everything we needed along the way. When we need strength he gave us some, sometimes just enough to get us through. When we needed encouragement, he gave...when we needed money, he gave us some of that too. And now as I sit and watch this cute little boy peek his head in and out of the living room, flashing that big pearly white smile.....my heart skips a beat.

Please pray for Matt to get some great rest and for Tate's continued adjustment. Please also pray for Tate's viral skin infection that he came home with. Fortunately, its something pretty common and that can be treat easily.

Sadie reaction was very funny. She was at a friends house while my friend and I picked the boys up from the airport and when we return I went and brought her to our house. She just stared for a while. I didnt get any photos of it but Matt has some video I will put up soon.

Here they are! Finally the airplane arrived! This is now one of my favorite photos ever.

Checking out all the rooms.

After she warmed up, Sadie instantly wanted to play mama.

Getting ready for our first night!

This is them playing this together this morning. :)

almost

2011-02-12T01:34:00.000-08:00

Sadie is all ready to meet her brother today! All dressed up in her Ethiopian Dress that 'Tatian got her' we went to court last November.

We are coming...

2011-02-03T05:22:00.000-08:00

To bring you home little man!

We got clearance this week and Matt is leaving Sunday Morning to travel to Ethiopia! We will be a family of four come the next Saturday Afternoon. Please pray for safe travels, on time flights, transitioning with a toddler and for the US Embassy Appointment to go smoothly.

no need to panic yet

2011-01-23T06:37:00.001-08:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Sadie!

MLK, Jr Day

2011-01-17T11:51:00.000-08:00

MLK is an inspiration to me, a great teacher, fearless lover of God, prophet and powerful sharer of Truth. His quotes just bring so much emotion and motivation to the table.

I wish he was here to see his sweet Dream come to life but let it be an encouragement not to lose sight on what God is calling us to do. Don't lose hope in fighting and running the good race. Keeping perusing justice. Knowing that we may not see it happening on this side of Heaven but also knowing that not obey is not an option. 1 Tim 6:12-19

"Not only will we have to repent for the sins of bad people; but we also will have to repent for the appalling silence of good people." Martin Luther King Jr.

"The day we see the truth and cease to speak is the day we begin to die"
Martin Luther King Jr.

"Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way." Martin Luther King Jr.

"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." Martin Luther King Jr.

"True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar; it comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring. "
Martin Luther King Jr.

Adoption Update

2011-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

We have eagerly been waiting since our return form Ethiopia in Nov. for the US Embassy Date there to 1) approve our paperwork 2) assign us date to come pick up the child with us visa.

We were really hoping for either of the last 2 available dates, but they have come and gone. The US Embassy seems to be getting more and more picky with paperwork, etc. We are hoping for the next date which would be 2/2. But two additional weeks of waiting seems like forever!

We are lucky to live in a time of technology like we have today, were we get updates on Him, that hes gorwing normally, He's walking...and saying some words, that he is social and likes blocks, etc. But I am ready to see it daily! Ready to see him growing and playing with Sadie and it all happening at our house! Through this, God is really teaching me HIS timing.......its hard but I like it.

In the mean time we were able to get him a French Visa to enter France until we leave!! That was a huge headahe and answer to prayer!!

Book Swap

2011-01-03T06:20:00.000-08:00

I wish I was near a nice big {English} library......here recently I have really enjoyed reading but sometimes its expensive to buy books online {even on the cheap websites}. I am no sure if this will work but....I was wondering if anyone wants to do some book swaping? If it is no more the around $3 to ship to and from where ever you are, then it should work!

I have a good reads account, that I just easily add any books that I come across that I want to read. Do you have one? Maybe we can be friends on there and do some book swapping that way.

Here are some books that I would like, let me know if you have any of them:

Any of the Geoff & Janet Benge Biographies
Sheparding a Child's Heart or Don't Make me Count to 3
#2 & #3 of the Mark of the Lion Series
Anything Amy Carmicheal or Elizabeth Elliot
Anything Shane Claiborn
And Anything John Chrysostom

my email: ksummers@gmail.com

Just some happenings Part 3

2010-12-05T06:34:00.000-08:00

Our friend from California, Wy, stop by after taking a cruise ship over from San Francisco. She then went to visit some friends in Germany. She is one active lady! It was really good to see her and hear some more of her stories. She stayed with our friend Annette at here B&B.

We helped some friends host an 'Egyptian Soiree' at he University. The girls put on a little Egyptian dance, but I will spar you the pain of watching it. ;)

We had to renew our Visa to stay here another year...it just happen to fall right around when all the riots where happening becuase of the change in the Retirement age here in France. When we were in the Court house, you could here people throwing rocks at it and Police had their shields blocking the door....we had to be escorted out. ;) No one was injured, its all really just a scare tactic that doesn't work, espcially when it mostly comes from teenage boys.

Just some happenings Part 2

2010-12-02T05:59:00.000-08:00

Happy 25th Birthday Nico! We have enjoyed Nico and Marie's friends over the last year, and Sadie playing with their son who is just a month older.

Its so sweet seeing Matt laying down with Sadie reading one of her favorite books...

We went with some friend to the "Wind Festival" and they had a hippy-like-carousel ride/show. I am not sure, but It think she enjoyed it?

Just some happenings Part 1

2010-11-29T05:59:00.000-08:00

......as we continue life here in Corsica.

Sadie started school in Oct. (ish). We really wanted her ot have a better opportunity to learn the language and meet more people are last year here. I think the school actually started in September but every time we tried to get her enrolled, we were told that she was too young. They start public school at age 3 here (just preschool with naps). Sadie was just 2.5 but we were told that they normally have extra room and would take younger children. One weekend we met the director of the school and had coffee with at her home. The next week Sadie started school. ;)

I guess, you just have to know the right Corsican.

It's getting cold here! Snow has made her debut for the winter.

Hanging out with my friend Claudia, making Matt's birthday cake. We watched Avatar (yes, I gave in) at Gael & Alexandra's house on their projector they use as a TV. ;)

Sadie hanging out with some of her friends, watching a movie.

We are back

2010-11-25T22:57:00.000-08:00

We have returned from our first trip to Ethiopia! It was a great experience and a real eye opener on many levels. I was scared of all the things that could go wrong going into it, but God really have me a peace....his ways are perfect, his timing is perfect, no matter the outcome of any of it. We made it through all 4 airports with no problems with customs or visas or luggage. We did not come down with anything the whole trip and Sadie was just fine while we were gone! Speaking of her, she will be waking up soon, so I will give more details later. But we did hear those sweet words from the Judge, "He is your child", and we hope to return sometime in January but will not know for a few weeks.

Leaving!

2010-11-19T08:55:00.000-08:00

I was really encouraged and motivated my this mother's post as we prepared the final details to go and meet Tatian. We leave bright and early in the morning....4 airports, long lay-overs and one 7 hour leg. We are leaving Sadie with some great friends here, but 5 days is a long time to be away from her! Of course, it will all be worth, to get see his sweet personality for the first time and move another step closer to having him home with us.

So off we go, with greatly mixed emotions, .....hopefully photos to come soon. Here are a few of us going though the donations we collected.

what is adoption?

2010-11-08T06:22:00.000-08:00

"Adoption is not about finding children for families, it's about finding families for children." Joyce Maguire Pavao

I dont know about you but I was adopted into a family, a family of misfits and outcasts, people who just cant get it right sometimes...the family of christians. A place of healing, grace, growing and love. And that is what I believe children of adoptoin need, a family for this.

“Adoption comes from the heart, but the adoption process comes from the Law. You should follow your heart, but be sure you also follow the law.” ~ Irina O’Rear....just for fun.

Just yesterday one of the elderly widows who lives in our building, asked me how the adoption was going, as we passed on the stairs. She then went on to remind me that she doesn't like adoption, its too hard and you do not know the kids. That she prefers pregnancy. I kindly said, "Je comprend, J'accord" I understand and agree. Because I do. It's not how God created it to be. I told her that I did not like the thought of children being in an orphanage, and that we felt compelled to do something, no matter how small it seem to be. But that was about as far as my french would let me go. What I wanted to say is that these children deserve to know that there is something bigger to this world, and that they do have a father in Heaven, that promises he will set things right one day. I believe in the mean time He wants us to be His Hands and feet.

Later on, I thought about her life, what it was like growing up on such a small island and raising a family, probably without television/news and no internet. It probably is bizarre to her that we would desire this route. The new is scary and unknown. We live in a world where if we if we think we can not handle it; Then Trust Your Heart. Or if you do not know how to go about it; Choose the is an easier. Or we too easily write it off. But in our day and time, with internet and statistics at our fingers, its hard to ignore. I am not just talking about the orphan statistic but any and all the injustices around us. Whatever it is that we are aware of but push aside so it doesn't interrupt our normal, routine, planned- out life. And 'it' truly is for me, becoming harder to ignore. No matter how many justifications we give ourselves or how many things we try and fill up our time to avoid 'it'. I have seen too often that the 'other way' is what produces true genuine joy that you just cant get enough of. The way that doesnt seem right to our human instincts or doesn't culturally fit. It's can be amazing that we live in a country where we can know a need on the other side of the world as well as the local needs. And it's pretty cool that we can read about the needs from our own homes and then actually do something to make a big impact....and it's cool how it looks different for every family. And for us, God lead us to Adoption. I Hope again! Through our short journey this far, we have been blessed to see the resemblance in our own adoption in the family of Christ. And how much we need a savior in our lives and in this world. Lord, Please keep me from myself and allow me to continue on this journey with you...no matter where you take us next. After all you did write that you know our hearts,

The Message Proverbs 24:12;

Rescue the perishing;
   don't hesitate to step in and help.
If you say, "Hey, that's none of my business,"
   will that get you off the hook?
Someone is watching you closely, you know—
   Someone not impressed with weak excuses.

Introducing...

2010-11-06T00:54:00.000-07:00

Tatian Dael Summers

A few weeks ago we passed the first go around for court! Now we must appear in person in Ethiopia, November 22nd, to say:

"Yes, we want this Child"

We are getting so close to bringing him home. Please continue to pray for the process, as there still could be some bumps to come. Pray for a smooth ride to finish! And pray for all those involved in this adoption. Adoption always has to sides and we can not forget that.

Thanks to some friends who just returned from visiting their children and appearing in court, we have some great photos! In all the photos, Tatian seems very happy-go-lucky and we were told that he has a fun personality and is adored by all the older child! We cannot wait to meet him!

I am sure we will get some questions on the name. :) Matt saw the name in one of his Church history books and he has liked it ever since. And obviously, it has grown on me! Dael, Matt's sister gave us, is Hebrew for
Knowledge of God.

How do you do bath time?

2010-10-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

Don't be jealous.

It's very common to not have full bath/showers here, so we bought a little sand/pool box so she could still enjoy some bath time fun. The only down fail...those things are a pain to empty! I have flooded the bathroom many of times because of my impatience while emptying it.

Festival A Santa di U Niolu...Coriscan Facts

2010-09-12T12:54:00.000-07:00

I still miss so much about the states and small town America, especially Texas. The culture and events and vibe, but I am learning to be thankful for experiencing things outside of my comfort zone. Through living and learning about another culture, God has reminded me just how big he is. He has and is opening my eyes and heart to so much more then I could have imagined.

Last Wednesday we went to a near by village to check out the "Santa" Festival, which is considered one of the largest and more important festivals in Corsica. And is one of the oldest. Each year, on the 8th of September, the people gather together to celebrate the Statue of the Virgin Mary, which has been worshiped for centuries by the Corsicans. The morning begins with a mass and the wooden statue is carried out of the church and placed next to an old crucifix in front of the altar. At the end of the mass a group of men carry the statue of the Virgin Mary around the village square. The Fraternity of Saint Anthony, white robed penitents, form the granitula, a spiral procession that has great significance in the Corsican culture. In afternoon, traders erect their stalls and sell their products like lonzu, coppa, wine, honey, liqueur and eau de vie. The mountain shepherds also gather to compete with one another in the improvisations and the 'Chjam' è Rispondi', a musical dialogue of rhymes. They demonstrate a quick wit, often very humorous. The verses sang by the older men are full of poetry. The singer who is best in expressing himself is rewarded by applause and laughter from the audience.

They believe that the story of the Statue Santa all begin on a stormy night back in the 15th century a ship had been blown off course near Galéria. The situation seemed hopeless, but the captain prayed to the Virgin Mary for assistance. In his despair he vowed to donate the most beautiful statue of the Madonna he could find in Genoa. Immediately a strange light appeared above the Franciscan Monastery at the foot of the Tafonata forest. The captain kept his promise and the statue was erected in the monastery church. During the 16th century, when the Turks destroyed the monastery, the statue of the Madonna was saved. It was carried by mule high up into the mountains of the Niolo. When the mule reached the village of Casamaccioli, it suddenly threw the statue to the ground. The statue was placed in the Chapel of Saint Antoine near the cemetery. The next day it miraculously reappeared in the middle of the village.After this had happened several times, the shepherds of the Niolu built a church dedicated to the Virgin. Ever since that day, they have celebrated the festival of the Nativity of the Virgin.

Ferdinand Gregorovius wrote in his history of Corsica in 1852 about this region of Corsica: "In this region dwell the strongest men on Corsica, patriarchal shepherds who have faithfully maintained the tradition of their forebearers. Info taken from Here.

buying candles to burn

a media event

a pretty building and a place to make money

children kissing the feet of the statue and those giving offerings

The faithful Corsican Ladies who hold strong to their traditions.

above photo of the church is from here.

Corsica National Anthem...Corsica Facts

2010-09-07T23:27:00.000-07:00

The Corsican National Anthem, Dio Vi Salvi, Regina, is a hymn to the the blessed Virgin Mary. And of course sang in the Corsican polyphony style in the Corse language. It was created in 1735.Once when we first arrived here, I was studying in an internet cafe and a group of guys busted into a polyphonic song in the mid afternoon. Holding their ears and singing down each others throats, see the video to understand. No one else there seem to be bothered so I went on with my afternoon enjoying the new music.

Here are the first three verses:

May the Lord protect you, Queen

And universal mother

By whose favor we are received

Into paradise.

You are the joy and the delight

Of the inconsolable

Of the tormented

The unique hope.

Welcome us poor sinners

Into your Holy veil

And reveal your

Son to us.

God is Good

2010-08-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take the time to count the blessings in my life right now, the blessings the Lord has graciouly given me, one who is undeserving.

Great friends here in Corsica that have reached out to us more then they know, the Bible and its continuous peace and teachings it gives me, updated photos of baby T, worshiping the Lord with friends, morning cuddles with Sadie, trails and strengthened characteristics, the ability to trust something beyond my understanding and desire, random kisses on the forehead, skyping with family, great friends coming back to Corte for school.

Shannon Cunningham Photography and this is part of downtown Corte.

Christpher Columbus...Corsican Facts

2010-08-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Napoleon was, of course, the most famous Corsican, however few people know that Christopher Columbus was born in Corsica. His house was in the citadel village of Calvi and still, partially, stands today and comes complete with a historical plaque.

Though Genoa claims his birth place, the truth is known on Corisca that he was born here. They believe that the when Genoa took over Corsica they stole/lost the files or didnt....or something along those lines. Columbus even dedicated the first lands he discovered to Corsican saints.

Cosican Coke...Corsica Facts

2010-08-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

Did you know that a Corsican invented coke, or at least played a huge role? That's what they say. But of course when it was invented it had something to do with wine.

Coke was invented by Dr. John Stith Pemberton, a local Pharmacist of Atlanta, he made the first syrup for the drink in a three legged brass kettle in his backyard. It came from his obsession of finding the ultimate medicine and an excellent drink all rolled into one. (aren't we still looking for that!) During those times reports about the health benefits of the coca plant had gripped the world. It was known to have stimulant, aphrodisiac and digestive properties (so coke IS good for us...haha). With so many uses, coca was naturally the plant that Pemberton had been looking for. HOWEVER Angelo Mariani, a Corsican had already made a coca wine, called Vin Mariani using coca leaves. This drink was a huge success in Europe.

Encouraged by the success of the Vin Mariani, Pemberton launched his own brand - Pemberton's French Wine Coca which he advertised as the 'intellectual beverage'. Pemberton soon realized that it would not be possible for him to sell a drink that was based on alcohol. Hence he started working on the formula of a temperance drink that would have extract of coca leaves and kola nuts but would not have alcohol. Finally in 1886 he landed on the formula of Coca-Cola syrup.

They even have their own Corsican Cola. And I like it....I mean its good for me and I just feel smarter drinking it!

The Coke of The Head Strong!

His First Birthday

2010-08-07T04:18:00.000-07:00

Today is the birthday of the little boy we are trying to adopt, well at least the date that we gave him. He turns one today and I as I think of him, the millions of others who do not get to celebrate birthdays became heavy on my heart. I realize one year olds do not remember their first birthdays, but you would not think this the way by the way we treat first birthdays in the West. There are often multiple parties, lots of presents, food and even a cake just for the little one (which is the most fun!). I don't know, maybe they are really meant to celebrate the parents, the fact that they survived the first year of parenting and sleeping a lot less. Either way, there is nothing inherently wrong with this until, however, you take something else into consideration....the other half. Don't get me wrong I am right in the mix when it comes time to celebrating first birthdays and still will be celebrating birthdays to come but I pray, in a new light. A Light of knowing the other half. Sometimes it all seems a bit ridiculous when you consider the overwhelming number of children who do not possess the basic needs for life.

How did we get so far away from what the early church was known for? Is it solely becuase its out of sight out of mind? Or is it really just too hard? Should where you live, determine if you live? Or if you have a family to celebrate birthdays with? When you think about what the cost of one birthday party can do for a child in other parts of the world it simply no longer adds up for me.....some kids are dying from something stupid like diarrhea. And on the other hand seeing the outcome of spoiled children and their struggles in life makes it really not worth it.

A challenge for all the mothers out there including me, please celebrate you child's first birthday. Children are indeed a blessing and parties are indeed fun and great part of childhood. We will be eating cake on those special days....Let's just not forget those precious children who will likely never taste cake unless we step in and help.

To the little one,

We do not have connection with you, nor do we even know God's plan for you in our lives, but today I feel like the best present I can give you is fasting and praying all day for your precious life. Maybe this will be a good discipline to start for all my kids (to come) on their special day..or maybe the next day after the cake.

This is from The Shaping of Things to Come, which talks about missional Living. I am currently reading it and I would definitely recommend it. It came out seven years ago, but says the same things as in The Radical Series.

"Generosity and hospitality were hallmarks of the Christian movement from the start. And this took the form of costly and radical sharing. As worthwhile as food drives and Christmas hampers might be, much of the church’s Generosity is not terribly costly for believers. Selfless, humble, and gracious generosity will mark the church as a unique source of salt and light in the community. Clearly the early church, centered on the apostles’ teaching about Jesus, saw generosity as an obviously expression of Christilikeness."

Lord Help me truely undestand this; truely give for you and your desires and truely understand sacrifice.

little one

2010-07-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

You precious face has strengthen my Faith in The Lord, more then words can explain. Although we still do not know God's exact plan in this, you have came into our path and softened our hearts.

I wish I could share with you just how cute of little boy He is, but for now, here are his precious hands, that I hope to hold one day.

yes he is in pink. Hey, they use what they can get ;)

We are praying for you little one.

world cup and links

2010-07-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

When we traveled to Spain, we happen to be there when they won the World Cup. We went out for a bit, but me and Sadie called it an early night.....though I was awoken when they won, to horns and fireworks and no telling what else they where doing. Our friend made a cute video of the craziness.

I Have been Reading Tom Davis' blog and some of his latest post have been very motivating,

The $2000 Tortilla Chip

What would you Sell to stop a child from being raped?

Have you heard of Korah in Ethiopia? Korah, Ethiopia

Check out this article in USA Today and let me know what you think: House Church

Three Amigos...Part II

2010-07-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

You can see Part One Here. We were lucky to attend our company's yearly Eastern Europe Get-Together in Spain 2 weeks ago, where we enjoyed some American amenities like air conditioning, taco bell and Dr. Pepper! More Photos to come...more importantly we were able to visit some friends that live in the Basque Country, along with another a family.....both families have little girls and Sadie had a blast! With 3 families in a 2 bedroom apartment, it was a territory fight for the little girls....though Nolyn, the youngest one, came out on top! All totally worth it, thanks for such a great time guys.

These two are my favorite photos of Nolyn, though they may not be the best photography, they really catches her little girl sweet-ness to me.

And this one is my favorite of Edan, who has a HUGE personality.

Help me to live my BEYOND my best...

2010-07-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

“Thankfully my best is not all I have to offer. Inside me shines something more, something I can offer my children that will never disappoint, the light and power of Christ. My children will not remember a saint when they recall their mother. Instead, they will remember a woman who bit her upper lip and then dropped to her knees and begged Jesus for strength." -unknown

"Not many of us are living at our best, We linger in the low because we are afraid to climb the mountains. The steep and ruggedness discourage us, so we stay in the midst of the valls and never learn the mysteries of the hills, We do not know what is lost by our self-indulgence, what glory awaits if we only have the courage to climb, or what blessings we will find if we only ascend the mountains of God!"
-J.R. Miller

where's the brownie mix bowl?

2010-07-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

..................is there something wrong, Mom?

let the count down begin....

2010-07-09T01:43:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we get to be re-united with some very cool people.....We are so blessed to be able to hang out with you again. And Sadie will be able to play with some of her buddies from Training and speak English. Shoot out to the med-team of Quad 8!

sorry, kyra I had too....its coming back to me isnt it?

Sorry Grace...but its going to be one cool week.

one beautiful women

2010-07-07T05:09:00.000-07:00

In the previous post about our acceptance of a referral I mentioned that God provided, through this kind-of came as a surprise becuase of the timing, God is faithful when He calls. He was faithful though a beautiful women, we didn't even ask. Like many other families out there that gave, and that will give in the future. We are forever Thankful to be apart of your community in Christ!

The Moment she got news of this precious boy, she gave. All she said what "how can we make this happen." She sacrificed as well as the some our brothers and sisters of ours, who have given so that we can move one step closer on this journey with God. I really think God meant for us to leave in a community like this and even possible have a common purse, like the early church.

Through her reaction and her giving and this situation in a whole, the Passage in Luke 5 came alive for me. It is the story of men carrying their paralytic friend on a mat. They lowered him through the roof to be healed by Jesus. They did whatever they could to obey the Lord's commands to help those in need. They could have easily given up when it seemed impossible, but they cut a hole in a roof, and rigged something to lower him into a crowded room....I am sure it had to be a big hole and that everyone thought they were nuts. Sometimes God works through miraculous, unbelievable things but sometimes the Lord expects us to step up, out of our comfort and take action, especially when one of His little kids is waiting on the other side. We do not know if we will be able to repair our 'hole in the roof' but our eyes are only on Jesus as were the eyes of the men who where lowering their friend before Him.

Yes

2010-07-05T13:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we accepted the referral of a beautiful baby boy who is 10 months old, at least they believe, he came to the orphanage about a month ago.

This means that we are now waiting on a court date for the Judge to approve. We had a few days between the email and photos of the precious boy and saying yes....of course we wanted to Yes right away but we had to wait on the Lord to provide a means, because saying yes meant the next payment, that we did not have.

He did provide!

It was a trying weekend to say the least but we have never drawn closer to the Lord as much nor dug into scripture finding and resting in his Truths. We have been blessed not only with others going through this same process but also with Friends here in Corisca who were willing to pray and share in the excitement!

If we pass court then we can share more photos and the name! For safety reasons we have to be extra careful. We must be present at on the court date but even if they say yes, we will have to return home and then return again in a few months to actually pick him up.

I can not stop looking at his precious smiles. Please pray that we continue trusting in the Lord, his providence, timing and decisions.

Great Article by Russel Moore:
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2010/july/10.18.html?start=1

And a Adoption T-shirt give-way, Here. my favorite!

always remember

2010-07-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I look at Sadie, I cannot believe she is 2 going on 3....How did that happen. Her sweet baby face is changing so much, her chunky thighs are losing their indentions and her cute little fingers are consistently covered in dirt, markers, stickiness.....I want to remember all those precious moments, the unplanned ones that just bring a warmness to your heart. The other morning she wanted to have coffee "Like you, mommy" So I got her some 'coffee' and we had our first mother, daughter early morning coffee date. When I fist tried to take a picture, her fast little growing legs sprinted out of the chair....then ran behind the door to be silly....those are the moments.

Also please pray for the sweet girls that are ripped from the chance to have morning coffee with someone that loves them, pray. God uses us. and gives them a indescribable peace until someone can get to them to say, you are worth it.

Brotherly Love

2010-06-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

We are getting closer and closer to the day we get to meet our next child...and you can imagine what some days are like. LONG. Though we do not know what sex or even the age of the toddler, we are trying to prepare as much as possible. There is a salvation army type thing here every few months, so I go a stock up on some 1euro clothing! Since we have girl clothes, I normally just buy boy things and if that doesn't work we will just donate it to the orphanage, so it works out perfect....and it helps us get more and more excited! Of course Sadie being the busybody that she is and the fashionable little girl must try on all the cloths....I eventually had to get a safety lock for her closet.. 6 outfits a day, her 'brother's cloths', hats, cloves...it was enough.

She loves taking about her brother and how she will play with him, and she says she will share...we shall see. I can't wait to share these memories with Him, knowing all the prayers that have been made for Him. Thinking of her and seeing her pray for her brother, always reminds me to pray for mine. Though we do not see each other often nor did we have a lot in common growing up...we did share the same house and now can relate on many levels...you know how that goes. So bro-bro (I hated when mom made me call you that), we love you and are praying for you despite the distance.

1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

My Brother....hummmmm

sure

2010-06-27T00:31:00.000-07:00

Mom, do you like my outfit?

what is with little girls and 1.534 billion outfits a day? having to pick it out themselves? having to have accessorizes?

Hope

2010-06-24T22:43:00.000-07:00

Head over and read this email from Hope on WeAreThatFamily Blogspot, very interesting and encouraging.

PRAISE! Adoption Update. We have made it through the paper-chase and are officially waiting on the "Phone Call", where we get to find out all the details on our precious child! It's kind of like we are coming upon the "big' ultra sound where you get to find out the sex!

Please continue to pray that it is all in God's timing....we consistently feel like there is much more that he wants from us. Pray that he Leads.In the mean time we are waiting on CIS (for international adoptions) approval and pray that it comes through fast, we will not be able to travel for the court date without it. After those 2 things happen, we must travel to Ethiopia for the court hearing, where the child will be legally ours! But unfortunately, you have to wait on finalized documentations from the Ethiopian Government to bring you child home which takes up to 2 months. So we must return again to bring him/her home.

summer time!

2010-06-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed visiting the beach for the first time this summer with some new friends, who have 3 young children. Sadie had a blast and they showed us where there was a free mini zoo near by, Corsican style with Wild Boar {and baby ones!}

Called

2010-06-21T01:15:00.000-07:00

Check out these statistics and blog:

Orphan Statistics

I didnt know either. Dont get overwhelmed like I did in the beginning and become frozen or judgemental.....but know that we all hav a specially calling that joins us together as His hands and feet and can be apart of change together!

It can be hard; scary work...espcially knowing where God wants you and where to begin. In any of the injustices in this fallen world. But ze can be a community for eqch other. We do not have to do it alone. We can support, encourage, pray, help and then be on then be helped all together!.....lets be called together!

a hike with daddy

2010-06-20T01:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks daddy for taking me on hikes, I really like to be with you, especially outdoors.
You always know how to have fun and make me laugh, I love you.

You always protect me and help me when I am afraid.

And carry me when I am tired.

And get me water when I am thirsty.

But most importantly Thank you for ~~your~~ my hair. Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

Lately - some firsts

2010-06-13T00:53:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to share some pictures of some firsts happening around here...

1st Annual BBQ

We met up with Samuel, Francesca and Philippe for, what turned into out "1st Annual BBQ in Corsica with an Québécois", although we had Americans, a Egyptian, and a Pakistanis as well. We had cheeseburgers....I didn't realize how much I missed and enjoyed and good, grilled cheeseburger!

The guys.......thanks for cooking Samuel!

And just because it is a funny photo:

Francesca and Sadie!

1st Corsican Meal {made by moi}

Last week, Niko and Marie came over with their son, Sadie Best Friend's, Pepu and I thought that would try a Corsican meal that another friend taught me how to make....thankfully it was as easy as you can get. They only thing is, I didnt know when Figatullie season was and the sausage I bought was not good....whoops. So we just had to whip up some pasta to along side the Corsica Fried Cheese. {i forgot the name} but it is one of the ways Shepards use to eat cheese, when they were gone for months at a time herding the sheep. The cheese is similar to Ricotta cheese and you just put about 7 spoons of flour, some salt, egg and water until it is creamy. They say the texture is the key....and then deep fry it. Yum.

Isnt this funny, one of the pieces came out in the shape of Corsica, unplanned of-course!

and because they are so cute, I do not remember when this was taken but it was at their house. Sadie and Pepu where watching a moving while we were playing cards:

1st Moroccan Meal {in corsica}

We had a lunch with some friends from Morocco, who I met in my free french class! They have kids about Sadie's age and Sadie made herself right at home.

{>photo>

1st Pot Pies for a Corsican Electricity Company Seminar

Last week I helped Annette with a few seminars she hosted at her B&B, one day they had typical French meal and the next day she wanted to do something fun so we had a "Southern" Meal, Chicken Pot Pies & BBQ Chicken Legs. They were actually a big hit {thanks for the Recipe Suzanne}. There was also another girl there, helping out, who was hilarious...she insisted we take photos and translated the recipe into French for her. I am glad I got a chance to get to know here and look forward to hanging out again soon. One of the guys after finding out it was a 'Texas' meal asked me if there was serpent in it......that was a first but we often get asked, after finding out we are Texans, "Where is your Hat and your boots? What about your spurs and your horses?" I wont lie...sometimes it make me a little proud to be from the Lone Star State.

The other side of the World Cup

2010-06-12T00:25:00.000-07:00

Remember to pray for the Nations as you watch games, see news clips or read about the World Cup. Especially the girls being trafficking because of the mass of fans traveling to South Africa. You can read more on Tom Davis' blog, here.

Head over there to watch the video......

"Girls as young as 15 were offered to us, a warning sign as sex traffickers prey on the young."

"You are Tricked, transported and the trapped, There are no human-trafficking laws in South Africa. So getting JUSTICE for these girls is going to be a huge problem" They need our Prayers.

"One lady had NO visa, and pages have been removed from her passport" She has no hope.

Also, Shaun Groves needs our help, His son's sponsored compassion child needs heart surgery and when they agreed to sponsor him, it was going to be through anything. anything helps.

Achile is an 8-year-old boy in Burkina Faso with a congenital heart defect known as tetralogy of Fallot. Because of Achile's heart condition, he has been in pain for five years and hasn't been able to attend school regularly and receive the full of benefit of sponsorships through Compassion International.   Doctors there now believe his condition requires urgent heart surgery, which is not available in Burkina Faso. Achile will be transported to a specialized hospital in India for a lifesaving operation that will cost an estimated $20,449. Donate here: http://compassion.com/Achile

Uganda Necklace, See Exactly who made them!

2010-06-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

Read the stories behind this amazing necklaces Here and Here.

You want to see exactly who made the Uganda necklace that you will be wearing? Check out this video.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-06-06T01:49:00.000-07:00

No it's not as late as you think....the French Mother's day was this past Sunday! So being so far away from our mom's and Sadie's grandma's, we decided to give some fruit baskets to some friends, in Honor of Them! There are many Moroccans that come up to Corsica to find work, I have been able to get to know about 5 of families....despite the HUGE language barrier, and I wanted to do something for them on Mother's Day since they are so far way from home.

Aren't they so cute....We MISS you and LOVE you and have change our background to this picture to remind us to pray & give praise for you guys more!

I thought I was doing this really cool thing - but once again the Lord showed me....as I was delivering them, I was invited in to to have some coffee. {somewhat different culture, there is no quick 'drop offs', you must come in for tea and hang out for a while}...but it was so full of JOY, meeting their sweet children and practicing our 'baby' french. {little hint do not put your cup down or else you will be be able to finish your tea!} Through I could not share much, I sat and prayed for them and for them to know our Savior. THEN they sent me home with more goodies then I came with....despite their situations, they are way more giving then I am. It also resulted open doors and dinners invites, please pray for these precious families and our language barriers. The Lord was probably thinking "See I do not need you but How sweet of you to offer"...ok not really but It was humbling.

Filled With Praise Blog Party

2010-06-04T01:39:00.000-07:00

Amy over at the Filled With Praise Blog, is hosting a 'blog party' today to try and get to know her readers/bloggy friends...she will being doing a drawing for some pretty cool prizes, if you link up you blog with the answers to these questions...here is a little about me, please let me know if you do it so I can read about you as well!

If you could have dinner with any person (past or present) who would it be?

It would be Amy Carmichael, though I doubt she would have anytime to sit and have dinner....
She served in India for fifty-five years without a furlough, dieing there at the age of 83. She heard, Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission speak about missionary life and she was ready to sail, however they decided that her health made her unfit for the work. She suffered neuralgia, a disease of the nerves that made her whole body weak and achy and often put her in bed for weeks on end. SO she join a different society, and save 100's of Hindu Temple children, young girls dedicated to the gods and forced into prostitution to earn money for the priests. In an effort to respect Indian culture, She herself dressed in Indian clothes, dyed her skin with dark coffee, and often traveled long distances on India's hot, dusty roads to save just one child from suffering. While serving in India, Amy received a letter from a young lady who was considering life as a missionary. She asked Amy, "What is missionary life like?" Amy wrote back saying simply, "Missionary life is a simply a chance to die". She has a very encouraging, motivating book about her life called, A Chance to Die.

What is your most embarrassing moment that you are willing to share with the blogging world?

I have had many of these through out my short life, thankfully I do not get embarrassed too easily. Let's see... I went back to work 4 months after Sadie was born and was still breastfeeding so I had to pump a few times a day in the bathroom on the other-side of my work building....so you can just imagine between pumps, leaks, milk bottles.....

And learning a new language has it fair share of laughs....I have asked a guy if it would be "swimming" this weekend instead of "snowing". I also told a lady that I love her new "Horse Cut" instead of "hair cut". And my wonderful speech impediment, that I though I had over come suddenly reappears and makes the U and R sound impossible!

If you could only use one word to describe yourself, what would it be?

Busy-body - sometimes in a good way, sometimes not. I can't sit still for anything (even when I am blogging I have to be doing something else) I do not enjoy movies or tv because I cant sit still that long. {all through I do enjoy a good book when I am falling asleep at night} I got that nick-name when I was young and consistently moving.

If You found a machine that allows you to fast forward your life to a moment or to rewind your life to a certain moment, but it can only be used for one moment. Would you fast forward or rewind and to which moment would you choose?

This one is Hard! Being in the adoption process...I would fast forward to meeting my precious child for the first time. Through I would love to rewind to our conversation, when it was evident that we were to move forward. We had been praying (separately) for God to break our hearts with what breaks his, and it just fell into place with both of us. It was just like finding out we were pregnant with Sadie, except with a lot more unknowns! Oh - I would like to rewind to when Sadie was first handed to me and I looked up at Matt, who had tears in his eyes.

And of course the cliche one, I would love to rewind back to our 2 week engagement! It was a sweet time, crazy, but sweet. Friends and family really pulled together for us, making the perfect wedding....I would not change it for anything. Most things were either given or borrowed by great friends and family and Matt's mom really helped get the reception just perfect with our favorite things - Chicken fingers, Chili's SW egg-rolls (matt's brother-n-law, is a chef and was able to get them), cotton-candy, a delicious cake made by his sister and sparklers! And we they all cleaned up afterward!

What is your favorite simple blessing in life?

Being married to guy that seeks the Lord, hearing is prayers for his family, friends and children....and a open internet connection with friends and family - it is a lifeline sometimes being so far away from home.

Reid and Matt JR

2010-05-30T02:01:00.000-07:00

During our trip to visit with our friends, we took the girls to a near by park and I snapped some photos! Both of our little GIRLS look a lot like there daddies....its a good thing they are both pretty boys. Kyra and I went to the park with one of her new friends there in Italy and it was really cool to hear her speak Italian, though I didn't understand a word....I was really proud of her sacrificing time and energy to learn a new language so she could communicate where God has her. It really motivated me to study more...thanks Krya and all you other people who are learning a new language.

Boss your heart

2010-05-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

boss your heart. great post. much needed. head over there and read it.

Sweet little 4 yr girl who was adopted from Serbia with congenital heart defects. She was abandoned at the hospital when her family found out and hospitals in Serbia could not repair her sweet heart. At the end of 2009 she was adopted by an awesome family and had a forever home. She under went open-heart surgery in S.A, TX in April but went to be with Jesus this last week, within 8 months of coming home.

Like the blogger above said on her blog:

"God doesn't always promise us a happy ending, but he promises us the best. And Chrissie, regardless of her short time on earth, was the best. That's why it's so important that we put our worries and our fears aside - shed that the protective coating we wear around our hearts- and do something with the gift of our lives. Adoption allowed Chrissie to truly live her days on this earth. Adoption was the difference of Chrissie dying alone in an orphanage or having the chance to change the world. And that is exactly what she did.Adoption is huge- if you don't believe me- just ask God how important it is to Him."

moving along..through Rome

2010-05-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

As many of you may know, we are currently living in Corsica, France, an island south of France close to Italy. And Rome is just a 4 hour ferry, and 3 hour train ride away....weird huh? For the adoption process we had to have Fingerprints done at a US embassy and since there was not one on the island we chose to travel to Rome (shucks!) where we could visit with and stay with some good friends we met at training. It was such a blessing to see them and catch up, especially letting Sadie and their precious little girl play together. We had our very own english speaking tour guides. We were also able to meet up with one of our new friends, Mina, who is now doing an internship in Rome.

The most interesting part were the "Holy Steps", the story is that the marble was brought from Jerusalem to Rome about 326 by Helena, mother of Constantine the first christian emperor. The marble was once the steps leading to the prætorium of Pilate at Jerusalem, hence, they believe sanctified by the footsteps of Jesus during his Passion. In 1908 the Pope granted a plenary indulgence to be gained as often as the stairs are devoutly climbed by knee after confession and communion.

Therefore, there were and are tons of people who come in hopes of this free indulgence subscribe by a Pope, a human.

Below is the Vatican, where the Pope lives. There were tons of tourist there in hopes of hearing him. We did not pay to go inside St. Peters but just seeing it on the outside, as well as the 100's of other huge church buildings on ever corner was eye opening. I do not know a lot about all the history but I do not that the Pope had people go around selling indulgences to build some of these church buildings. These buildings were built when people didn't have food to eat.

all the tourist at The Trevi Fountain...

I love this photo because both Sadie and Matt are staring up with their mouth open, inside the Pantheon.

And this is how Sadie felt about it all....

let me just take my shoes off and put some bubble wrap on my toes....at the Vatican. Thanks for letting us use your stroller, karrs!

this is what we saw coming out of the metro station...it made it really surreal that we were acutally in Rome.

I love the girls in this photo...come on daddy, this is boring.This was inside the massive church in their neighborhood.

the Roman soldiers just wanted to say Hi.

This is where they believe Apostle Paul was imprisoned.

Thanks for the much needed time of encouragement, refreshment and prayer!

alexia & philip

2010-05-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago we went down to meet up with some friends, Alexia & Philippe in their village and took Sadie to a little school's children festival. His mom and younger sister came along as well. Sadie was afraid of all the clowns and wouldn't get near them, as well as the face painting...she was missing out on all the fun. We, however, got in on some action and tried the "Drunken Walk Test" were you wear goggles that make you 'see' as of you were drunken. It really threw off your balance and was difficult...So Don't Try is for Real.

Philippe "Come on Sadie, come see the clown and get a balloon." Sadie "Nooooo..." as she runs away.

The bunny stole a hug from Alexia.

ofcorsica. The announcer at the Kid's festival smoked as he introduces Pinocchio...

County Fair in Corisca=

2010-05-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Fete de Fromage.....The Cheese Festival! Matt, Francesca and I met up with some new friends, Alexia & Philip, at the Fete de Fromage and got to taste A LOT of cheese....some stinky, some really old, some soft, some with green stuff growing on it, some STRONGER then others...well it's not as bad as it sounds but it has taken some getting use to. It was cool to see everyone come together to sell their homemade products and hang out with each other. It reminded me a lot of our county fair back in Texas, but of course with a huge Corsican twist...(and no cotton candy). After Sadie's nap, we went back out to have some dinner and meet up with Paul & to meet his grandmother (a friend from Football Americano). It turned out that his grandmother has written a Corsican Cookbook and was there giving autographs. Maybe I will attempt a recipe soon...I'll keep you informed. We also ran into Delphin and his mom & sister they were hanging out at the 'Antisanti Village table'. As we were sitting there I heard someone say, "Bonjour Sadie"...it was a girl who did an internship at Sadie's daycare and fortunately spoke some English. She told me that she would help Sadie at snack time to understand...how sweet. It was nice getting to know her and meet her family. So, that's a taste of small town life in Corsica!

This gentleman has Corsican written all over him.

No Turkey Legs but Wild boar anyone? let's just roast the whole thing...and there was a long line for a sandwich, where they would just go cut some meat of and put in on some bread.

Fried Brocciu Cheese...I forgot what it was called but it was Good!

Pinic, Horses and a Hike

2010-04-28T00:38:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we met up with our friend, Annette, and had a picnic in her garden. Spring is finally here and it was awesome to just hang-out outside all day. We went for a walk around her village and she showed me around...we came across some beautiful horses. Sadie was in heaven! Thanks so for such a fun day Annette! On Sunday we went for a hike along the river and find a nice place on some rocks to just relax and refresh ourselves for the week....soaking in the beauty of the Lord. Check out who's wearing a Uganda necklace {Kari}. If you have a photo in one, send it to me! And if you do not have one, get one today they are too awesome. It's amazing how much of a difference a beautiful necklace can make!

My Favorite picture!

Lifesong

2010-04-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

Through my adoption research I came across an amazing ministry called Lifesong who is doing some pretty cool things in 6 different countries. Their mission: "We seek to mobilize the church, His body, where each member can provide a unique and special service: some to adopt, some to care, some to give." I wanted to help get the word out! Below are some of their current projects.

Lifesong Ethiopia 2010 from Lifesong for Orphans on Vimeo.

We found many of the students in the Ziway Lifesong School were coming to school hungry and brought no food for lunch. Teachers complained of lack of attention on the students’ part. Lifesong initiated a school feeding program in November, 2009, for all 300 students at the school.

For breakfast each receives fafa, a porridge-like food that provides the nutrients that each growing child needs. The lunch menu rotates through a cycle of fish soup, the national foods of shiro and injera, vegetable beef soup, and pasta.

Now that the Adami Tulu Nursery School has re-opened, Lifesong has also started a similar breakfast and lunch feeding program there.

The Ziway school feeding program, in which 300 children are fed two meals each day, has been very successful. Caregivers, teachers, and the students themselves report that they are much healthier, more attentive in class, and have more muscle and skin tone.

Sustaining the program of feeding each student a nutritious breakfast and lunch at the Adami Tulu School will take additional funding and special logistics. However, if it is God’s will, we know that He will provide what is necessary for the feeding program. On the first day of the feeding program, all students were measured for their height and weight and this data was recorded. Several children were found to be malnourished. Now that we have this statistical data, we intend to monitor the students’ progress.

View all current projects. View all Lifesong Ethiopia videos.

In Ethiopia, $3 feeds 1 child for a month! Go here to donate $3!!

a little adoption update

2010-04-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

We are still in the paper-chase phase but we have completed our homestudy interviews! We are glad that, that is finished. Once we get the official home-study approval papers in the next week or so we can apply for different grants and we plan on applying for a lot! We are in crunch time now to get certain fees paid so we can continue to move forward and get this little child that God has chosen for us home! Although we do have the means to welcome another child in our home and to take care of them, we do not have the $1000's for the adoption fees sitting around. Document fees, translation fees, legal fees, medical fees, travel fees...all the very important and needed fees add up fast! We have already been so blessed by your help and we are forever thankful. We are still working on getting one more raffle together. $300+ in giftcards! How cool would it be to win that! Be on the lookout!

I finally got some updated photos of Sadie, see the post before this one. And a fellow adoptive family is doing a giveaway for her upcoming etsy store (that will be open this Friday). Check out their blog and help support their adoption with her beautiful handmade Ethiopian & Korean Bows! Aren't they so adorably cute!

Love,
The Summers Family

Spring has sprung...My Sadie Lady

2010-04-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, I took advantage of the cloudy day and got some new Spring photos of Sadie. I was so excited because we were in need of some summer cloths that fit her (please hurry spring, all Sadie's winter cloths are now too small!) And I came across a place, kind-of like a salvation army, on the exact day and time that it was opening. (its not open all the time). All the cloths were only 1 euro a piece and most of them where still great quality!

I cannot believe that Sadie is already over 2 years old and has such a strong personality. Please slow down little girl, you are growing too fast for me.

Sadie, you do have your way with making your dad and I smiling and laugh. Through sometimes that strong personality has a way about making us praying extra hard for you.

I love how these below show her personality. She is really a crazy little thing and keeps us laughing. I can't wait for her to play with her new little brother or sister, its going to be so sweet.

Visitors

2010-04-20T01:31:00.000-07:00

This last week we had some visitors, though they were kind-of random, English speaking visitors non-the-less. We had our home study interview for the adoption and our social worker (who is an American citizen but lives and works out of Germany) brought along his wife for a mini get-away. The interview went well and we were also able to meet his wife and show them around Corte. She loves pottery so we went to a local potter that we have met though friends. The owner is in his mid-80's and still going strong...its that Corsican Cheese! The guy you see making the pottery is his son. We had a great time getting to know Randy and his wife. Please pray that God will continue to confirm His lead in the adoption with an smooth approval!

Next we met up with a lady who I met through the blog world. When we first got to Corsica I was doing research trying to learn more about it and came across her blog. She was actually raised in South American because her family from Corsica migrated there. But she has been in Florida since she was 18. She still has relatives here in Corsica and loves to come and visit. She started a blog about traveling here and it has a lot of really helpful information. While she was here, she took us to visit a near by river and to see see some waterfalls. Then we met up with our friendAnnette who owns a Bed & Breakfast in a near by village. Despite the rain, it was a great day getting to know her and her friend. (who is Italian but looks German!)

An old Shepard's house...

Gotta love him...

Poor Sadie, we just tug her along where ever we go!

though she was a bit scared at the sounds of the water rushing...can you see them waiting for us back on the rock?

links i love

2010-04-17T01:35:00.000-07:00

ROOM FOR ONE MOR E BLOGSPOT: A fellow adoptive family needs our help. They are adopting 2 precious girls with down syndrome from Eastern Europe, where adoption for these two girls is a matter of life a death. If the orphans who have special needs in eastern Europe do not get adopted, they get moved to a mental institution... an insane asylum... and they spend the rest of their life in a crib. For orphans with special needs, this is a death sentence because they will not get medical care when they are in a mental institution, and with inadequate food & inadequate interaction with other human beings, they don't often have a long life after being transferred. Although the family does have room and the money needed to raise more children they do not have the $30,000 just sitting around to pay all the adoption fees to get the girls home. The post I linked up above is very moving, its a long but worth the time!

Great Mother's Day Necklace!
Tom Davis, HopeChest and www.adoptionfather.com partner together to help stop sex trafficing in Russia. Check out Tom Davis' trip to Moldova, he was shown the 'cafe' known for hubbing girls. "In fact, they're here right now. And so are the girls who are being trafficked. They lure girls here for a job. Then they are sent to Turkey, Israel, and Russia." Let's Pray. They need our help.
"We are excited to announce today the beginning of a partnership between adoptionfathers.com and Children's HopeChest to "Break the Chain" of sex trafficking and orphanhood in Eastern Europe. We have launched a Mother's Day necklace to bring you the Love Goes Around necklace. When you buy this necklace for your mother, wife, sister, or daughter, proceeds will support the women in the video you saw and help victims of sex trafficking in Moldova

I do not know what I would do if my baby girl had to go through either one of those horrors. Lord, keep opening our eyes to how we can help girls near and far.

An Egyptian Meal

2010-04-15T12:29:00.001-07:00

My first Egyptian Meal! Samuel and Mina came over and cooked a very traditional lunch for us. Lunch is the main meal in Egypt is eaten around 2ish and then a light dinner maybe around 8ish. A lot like it is here in France, something I have had to get used to. I was a bit nervous when they wanted to make somethign but then I found out it was mainly carbs...how can you go wrong? Here's the recipe if you are feeling international for dinner:

Koushari

Depending on how many you are cooking for, about a cup of lentils, cup of elbow macaroni, a cup of rice and a can of chickpeas. Cook all as normal adding salt to the lentils if you like but for the rice: Heat 2 tb olive oil in a sauce pan, add the rice and cook for 3 min. coating all pieces. Add 2 cups of water and heat until the water begins to boil. Cover the saucepan and simmer until the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
Slice an onion and saute in1/4 c olive oil, stiring until they are brown and crispy (if you like them that way). Spoon lentils, then rice, then macaroni, then chickpeas, top with a tomato sauce of your choice and onions! Yum!

links i love

2010-04-11T13:49:00.000-07:00

You know sometimes Mother Teresa quotes just cuts you to the soul. I was reading through them today as God was convicting me of sins of selfishness that I have. I think that she had a good sense of humor...Here's one for exqmple, "I want you to be concerned about your next door neighbor. Do you know your next door neighbor?" -Mother Teresa

Livesay {Haiti} Weblog
The Livesay's have been in Haiti serving for the last few years. They have a amazing testimony, check it out. And they have a wonderful blog post about about a piece that 60 minutes did. There are things I love about this report, I loved when Jean Robert Cadet reminded us that it does matter and Iis important to help just one person. The truth of that is powerful. They will actually be speaking in the Houston Area (the are in states for a bit) at Robbie Seay's church, Ecclesia on April 18th if anyone is interested!

Noel Piper aka John Piper's wife.
I had no idea that they adopted! I am so behind (16 years) but it was a encouragement to hear their story. You can read her adoption story here. its a series of posts but she writes well and it was a good read. They adopted beautiful Talitha Ruth a month before John Piper turned 50. They went through weeks and weeks of prayer and Noel said that she tried to speak to him in his own language so she wrote what she hoped would be a persuasive paper. (isn't that funny) And he wrote her back...the answer was yes. He shared some points that he had wrote in his journal.

Corte Easter Procession

2010-04-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

All over Corsica on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, penitents parade in a long procession, barefoot and wearing cowls on their heads while a large crowd follows them. In the first procession as you see in the first photo, they carry Jesus on the Cross and on Good Friday they carry a flat piece of wood, with Him laid out and Mother Mary following Him. They are also singing songs in the Corsican Language. In a town called Sartene, which is known to be very Corsican, you will find the famous Good Friday procession. You will see a guy dressed in a red robe and hood. Nobody knows who he is but the Priest, and they believe that all the man's sins up until that point are forgiven. Some people wait on the waiting list for 40 years to get this privilege. We didnt make it to this procession this year because we wanted to see the one in our town but you can see more photos of it Here. Shes says, that like Jesus on his way to the cross, the penitent falls three times along the way and the onlookers recite the Lord’s Prayer whilst he rests on the ground.

Easter in Linguizzetta

2010-04-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

Matt and I spent Easter day with Lucie's Family in her village. We wanted to have a lunch on the beach but it turned out to be a very rainy and cold day so we celebrated with a Traditional Corsican Easter Lunch, lamb. And for dessert a semi-sweet bread with whole eggs placed in the dough before baking. (and they are like hard boiled eggs when finished).

I was invited to stay with Lucie in her village and Matt graciously took Sadie for the night so that I could focus on learning french! She took me on a long walk exploring the near by villages, I think we walked to about 3 or 4 all with only about 40 residents during the winter months. And each one had their own Catholic Church with days of the year that are dedicated to them, their are not enough Priests to go around so only about one Mass is conducted in each village per year. On way back the rain started coming down a lot harder then we anticipated and we were drench! Its been awhile since I have played in the rain.

The rain went away by the morning and we were able to go a beautiful hike together up the mountain to see a panoramic view of her village and a beautiful cross, we had lunch together up there and enjoyed the breeze and conversation. What a beautiful way to close out the Easter weekend. Now the way back down was a different story, we seemed to have gotten off track somewhere and ended up following the pig trail which was overgrown and we had to basically walk on our knees to get through. Thank goodness we had her dog with us who lead us back to the right trail...aren't dogs so smart!

Linguizzetta from the top of the trail.

The smart dog! I am so glad he came with us!
The cross at the top of the Hike.

A old monastery that she showed me.
Lucie said that this good ole truck was the mascot of one of the towns we walked through.

We met up with Matt and Sadie at the beach after wards, to enjoy some more of the rays before the left us!