9 November 2009

Did you ever have a big exam to study for?  One so big that you knew everything was riding on it?  You studied and studied until you were confident that you had mastered the material?  And then on the day of the test, it didn't look like anything you'd reviewed--not even really the same subject?  But somehow, by the grace of God and by the seat of your pants, you managed to pass?  This is our life right now.  The testing continues.

Today we had another major testing session and came out on the other side praising God for getting us through.  Kim was a champ yesterday and James wins the prize today.  Even in the midst of THE hardest physical struggles and verbal barbs, God graced us with peace, patience and love to stay by our children's side the way they needed us (even if they didn't know it or want it at the time).  

Aside from that, today was a really fun day!  We laughed a lot and really enjoyed each other's company.  Mealtimes are continuing to become more organized and thus more enjoyable.  Today we practiced staying at the table until everyone was done eating and then leaving the dining room together (novel, I know).  We had some fun times at the table, as you can see in the pictures above.  And yes, that's our 4 year old and his Lion, Batman, drinking coffee at dinner at 7:30 PM.  No worries, he's sleeping as we write this and we don't have a coffee maker at home.

Everyone's made some fantastic progress with obeying and respecting (two of our most important family rules).  They even got out of the pool today without any fuss at all--twice!  They even earned a 15 minute night swim before bedtime.  That means three things:  

1.  All our children are starting to understand their limits and the importance of obedience.

2.  Both of our rooms at the hotel are full of damp towels, bathing suits and underwear hanging EVERYWHERE to dry.

3.  I miss my washer/dryer (never thought I'd say that).

Have we mentioned how amazing our children are?  They are such characters!  We are thankful that they love each other, they enjoy books and games, they like to dance and sing, and they can play and occupy themselves independently.  One thing we prayed about for a long time was that, while we were waiting for them, there would be people in their lives giving them a Biblical foundation and knowledge of the Love of the Lord.  We are not quite sure of the details of how God worked that out, but they clearly have knowledge of the Bible, are quick to talk about God and love to read the Word.  Yesterday while we were swimming in the pool, a church group came to baptize about half a dozen new believers.  We got to stay on the edge of the pool to watch and we were able to talk about what it means to give your heart to Jesus and be baptized.  They were super attentive and it was a sweet conversation.

Tonight during story time before bed, we watched the video clips of OUR story--our first meeting last Wednesday.  Everyone really enjoyed reliving those special moments.  And guess what?  Everyone was sleeping before 9:30 tonight!  We're creeping bedtime a little earlier each night and hoping they don't notice.  Seems like they were used to staying up pretty late and watching Brazilian Soap Operas (Novelas) until past 10pm.  The bedtime routine is now posted on our closet door along with the daily schedule.  Both have been flexible enough to work and firm enough to give them the security and order that they seem to crave.

We love having four children.  And we LOVE these children of ours!  It just keeps getting better.  And it's not even been a week yet.

PS, try the video posts again, I think we've worked out the kinks.  Another one is on its way next.