Sunday, July 24, 2011
Looking Back
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| I found some photos off of facebook profiles of volunteers that worked at Joseph's school before we met him. |
Baptism Day
Sister's Wiley and Short
Grandma and Grandpa B
Friday, May 13, 2011
ODP Tourney
Joseph with Coach Anthony Sardon.
What an amazing experience! Joseph had the opportunity to represent Washington State at both the regional tournament and National Tournament Olympic Development Tournament. The 1995 boys ODP team took second in the nation. Joseph scored the goal that helped advance the team to the Nationals, and then was lucky enough to score the winning PK that helped them play in the finals for the national title. Sadly, they lost the final, but this is the most winning team in WA state history. One of the beautiful things about Joseph is the way he leads. We were so proud of him when he encouraged his to to pray before their games and always stood for the right by discouraging bad language. It's a rough environment sometimes when you are traveling with a bunch of boys and coaches, most who don't have the same standards as you. His coaches were so good to him and are great friends who Joseph now loves and admires. Joseph spent a lot of time listening to his church music.......................We are so proud of him!
February 2011
No, I didn't approve, no I wasn't happy! That's why it only lasted one day! Enough said? Oh, and it won't be happening again!
First Valentines Day. We took turns writing the things we love about one another:)
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Sobering................
If I think back to 2 years ago and remember the boy I met, I can hardly believe the young man living under our roof is the same person I loved in the not so distant past. He has come so far. From a boy who "lacked" school fees and wasn't sure if he would have a place to live because he might be "chased" away. A boy who was alone in this world, depending on the kindness of an old women to clothe and feed him. Now, the food is endless (really), clothing is abundant, school is free, and the love of a family is bountiful!
Then
Now
The journey hasn't been easy, and there have definitely been challenges along the way. There are wounds that haven't healed and burdens that for so long have been carried alone. Opening those doors has not been easy. The educational challenges are magnificent and the change in family dynamics has been at times challenging. But, the truth is this. If I look back 7 months ago and think about the future Joseph had in contrast to the future that now awaits him, my mind is completely blown away. The doors are open and opportunities endless. I see nothing but a brilliant future paved by love, effort, and a lot of hard work. When someone says to me, and yes, they do say this, "You are so good! Taking an orphan into your home, and a teenager at that! He is so lucky"! I honestly reply, "No, we are the lucky ones. Get to know him and you will agree. We are the lucky ones"! The sacrifice has been well worth it. It has been hard. I won't lie. For so many reasons. But, the good times trump it all and I can't imagine my life any other way.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
The Dreaded Cat
Joseph is deathly afraid of cats. Our cat is an outdoor cat, but with the snow I let him come inside for a few minutes. I couldn't believe my eyes when Joseph held Taft! He usually squeels and runs away at the sight of him. The funny thing is that the cat tries to sneek in now and goes right to Joseph's bed and falls asleep!
Christmas Day 2010
Under Armour and Africa Necklace
Favorite Gift, Chelsea Sweatshirt from G-Ma and G-Pa B
Santa Gift. Skecher Boots
Christmas Breakfast
Beau's Airhog Helicopter went over the barbed wire fence at Grandma and Grandpa B's house. Leave it to Britton to save the day!
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