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Ni Hao Y'all

when east meets south

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No rainbows here today…

I would love to spend the entire afternoon getting you guys caught up on things, but I can’t. I leave this afternoon with Shepherd for his last visit to Iowa City… tomorrow is his tenotomy and his last casting.
I know I’ve been quiet. Besides not having internet access (which has probably been a HUGE blessing for many reasons) I’ve just really been struggling on many levels. Things are tough right now… the move, the stress, the kids’ additional needs, the new house turning out to be quite a bit more work than we had anticipated (WAY more). I’m overwhelmed, pooped and quite honestly, surprised at how poorly I am holding up. It has been one thing after another, big and small, and I when I just barely feel like I have caught my breath, something else happens.
Then, on Saturday my sister called to tell me that our Dad had died. He was 76 and although his health had been declining rapidly in the last few months, it was a shock. My sadness is more for myself than for him, he was a Christian and I have complete confidence that he is enjoying heaven in his new, perfect body. But I miss him. I have been flooded with memories of him since he died, in fact there doesn’t seem to be a day that passes that I don’t see something that reminds me of him so vividly, it’s impossible to hold back the tears. The funeral was Tuesday so I flew to Atlanta on Monday and arrived home yesterday.
I wish it were all roses and rainbows in my post today, but sometimes He knows what we need instead is the rain. If you think of it, please keep us in your prayers 🙂

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08.14.08 · Uncategorized 107

Comments

  1. Branda says

    August 14, 2008 at 6:47 PM

    you don’t know me but I check your blog often to see your updates. We too have adopted from China and your stories about your children are an inspiration to me. Just know you are being lifted up from down here in Texas. I will be praying for you.

    sincerely,
    Branda

    Reply
  2. skrpr_grl says

    August 14, 2008 at 6:52 PM

    You are in my prayers! I am sorry for your loss. My you find comfort in God’s unending love and know he will carrying you through this. I lost 2 loved ones this year (my sister and grandmother) so I understand your grief and know how it can make the simple trials in life harder. I found it comforting to know that during that time God was always with me.

    God Bless you and your beautiful family,
    Kelly O’Rourke

    Reply
  3. Mom to my China Posse says

    August 14, 2008 at 6:56 PM

    Your definately in my prayers and I am sorry for your loss. Hang in there, when I find myself overwhelmed I always find comfort in knowing He will never give me more than I can handle even thought at times being in the moment its hard for me to see. Praying for you, Kathy

    Reply
  4. living4him5 says

    August 14, 2008 at 6:58 PM

    Hi Stefanie, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know I’m praying for you as you journey through your grief and all the other BIG things going on in your life. Hang in there!! God will never let you fall. We miss you!!

    God bless,
    Amy

    Reply
  5. tiffany says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:00 PM

    Oh dear. That is a lot on your plate. I am so sorry for your loss most of all. And I hope the other things get worked out and you get settled in your new home soon. Wishing you rainbows and double rainbows very soon.

    Reply
  6. The Ferrill's says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:05 PM

    Precious Stefanie, you are loved.
    I am praying for you.

    Reply
  7. Chad and Sandy says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:10 PM

    `so sorry – hugs and prayers…..

    Sandy

    Reply
  8. Ashley says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:12 PM

    Praying for you all during this time. May you find comfort in your loved ones and your memories. Good luck to you and Shepard as you travel to Iowa City.
    God Bless, Ashley

    Reply
  9. Special K says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:14 PM

    I’m so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  10. Cindy says

    August 14, 2008 at 7:43 PM

    Stefanie,

    My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. Things will get better:) It is hard to move and get things straight and not have the perfect house be perfect, there’s always more work than you would think. Your kids are such an inspiration and you will make it. Sorry to hear about such sad news but your father is in Heaven with the Lord and he is telling you don’t be sad, be happy that he is not in pain and he is happy, celebrate life like you haven’t before.

    Good Luck traveling with Shepherd and his feet look awesome!!

    Cindy

    Reply
  11. Janelle says

    August 14, 2008 at 8:23 PM

    prayers are with you and your family as you begin the process of saying good-bye.

    love,
    Janelle

    Reply
  12. Michelle says

    August 14, 2008 at 9:45 PM

    Oh Stefanie – I am so sorry, but as you sais your dad is rejoicing with his Father. Praying that your days get better!

    “Tomorrow is another day” ~Scarlett O’Hara

    Prayers

    Reply
  13. pam says

    August 14, 2008 at 10:06 PM

    Please don’t be so hard on yourself. I’m so sorry for your loss and I wish I could help.

    Pam in Indiana

    Reply
  14. Karen says

    August 14, 2008 at 10:06 PM

    I am so sorry to hear about your dad and all your new struggles. You’re in my prayers.

    Reply
  15. Sharon says

    August 14, 2008 at 10:44 PM

    Stefanie,
    I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. I pray that those are healing showers falling on you today. You will see the rainbow again.

    Hugs,
    Sharon

    Reply
  16. MississippiZen says

    August 14, 2008 at 11:15 PM

    I know so well your grief having lost my mom just a short 4 years ago. I will be praying for you and the loss that you feel. Lean on God and let Him wrap His arms around you.

    Margie

    Reply
  17. Barbie says

    August 14, 2008 at 11:18 PM

    I am so sorry to hear about your dad but I am thankful that you are reassured by where he is now. But the pain of being left behind is great even with the security. I will be praying for you and the rest of your family.

    I hope you get settled into your new place quickly. I can only imagine the stress you are feeling with all of your responsibility. Hang in there. I know you are very strong and He will carry you when you need it.

    Love ya!

    Reply
  18. Adam and Cynthia says

    August 14, 2008 at 11:21 PM

    I am so sorry for your loss. We will absolutely remember you all in our prayers! Please take some time for yourself in all the madness of the move and craziness. You must take care of you……if you are to take care of everyone else.

    Much love Sweetie!

    Reply
  19. Lynn says

    August 14, 2008 at 11:36 PM

    Steph, I am so sorry, you are in my prayers.

    Reply
  20. Anonymous says

    August 14, 2008 at 11:54 PM

    You’re in my thoughts and prayers!

    Reply
  21. Terynn says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:07 AM

    So sorry for your loss and the flood that threatens to overwhelm. I appreciate your transparency and honesty. You could just fake it.

    I live in Iowa and have enjoyed the fact that, even though we do not know one another, it feels nice to have you here with your precious children.

    Prayers to lift you up, comfort and refresh you.

    Reply
  22. Chris and Deb says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:09 AM

    Oh Stefanie…I am so sorry to hear about your Dad! You certainly do have a lot on your plate these days! Blessings to you and you family! You will all be in our prayers!!!

    Reply
  23. Snowflowers Mum says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:37 AM

    Dear friend

    Our family is definately thinking of yours…sending hugs.

    take a breath, we all miss you when you are gone, but you really need to take some time to get sorted out.

    Shepherds feet look wonderful!!

    You inspire us all.

    Reply
  24. Andrea says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:42 AM

    Baby boys feet are lookin'good, girl!
    I am sorry that your dad has passed. You cry as much s you need to. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed that there is nothing left to do but cry. I will pray that you will be able to rest when you get back from the doctor & that your rainbow finds you soon.

    Love you, Sister/Friend.

    Andrea

    Reply
  25. Katie says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:04 AM

    Just wanted to let you know that I’m thinking of you and lifting you and your family up in prayer.
    Katie in NY

    Reply
  26. Tammy says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:41 AM

    Stefanie,
    I am so sorry for your loss and the struggle you are feeling right now. I can’t imagine how overwhelming it must be. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers and know this to will pass.

    Tammy

    Reply
  27. Jen, aka ChinaMom2005 says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:54 AM

    sorry for your loss and you and your family are defintely in our prayers. Even when we know it is best, it is hard to accept sometimes. God never gives us anything we cannot handle.

    Reply
  28. Jodee Leader says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:56 AM

    Stephanie — I, too, am so sorry for your loss. I will be thinking of you at this difficult time.

    Reply
  29. Mom of 5 says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:58 AM

    Prayers said ~

    Reply
  30. Anonymous says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:59 AM

    Stefanie, I am so sorry about your Dad. I have on my fridge a thought that I find strength and comfort from. “If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.” I am thinking of and praying for you.

    I am so glad to hear that Shepherd is almost done with casting. We think Lizzie has about 6 more to go!! Hang in there!!!

    Ann

    Reply
  31. Patricia/NYC says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:09 AM

    Dear, sweet Stefanie, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray for your strength to endure & that you find peace in the memories that you hold close in your heart. The Lord will comfort you & He will provide. And know that you have my prayers & heartfelt sympathy.
    Love ya!
    Patricia

    Reply
  32. a Tonggu Momma says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:20 AM

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I really found comfort in Mary Beth Chapman’s words on Larry King Live — the ground may feel hard, your face may fall flat on it, but the foundation is there, present, firm. Hugs to you.

    Reply
  33. Blogs by Danielle says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:24 AM

    I’m so sorry about your dad. I will definitely keep you in my prayers!

    Reply
  34. melissa says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:24 AM

    Praying…..

    Reply
  35. Table for Six says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:37 AM

    we are sorry for your loss and praying for you while you grieve. praying your trip goes smooth and that things start falling back into place soon.
    many hugs
    jill s.

    Reply
  36. Suzy says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:44 AM

    I will be praying for you, too. I’m so sorry for YOUR loss, but I’m glad you have comfort in the knowledge of where he is and how he is. Blessings and God’s peace be with you.

    Reply
  37. Tish says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:46 AM

    i’m so sorry, stefanie…i wish i could head over to your place and help you out with some painting and unpacking…and give you a big hug. love you.

    Reply
  38. Gracie and Garrett's Mommy says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:14 AM

    Dear Stef,
    I am so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. I know you must be going through so much right now. Know that you are in our prayers and our thoughts. I read a wonderful book called Final Gifts after my Dad passed away and it helped me a lot. Maybe you should read it too. Know that our hearts are with you and your family at this time. Hang in there, get as much rest as possible, let others take care of you for a change, and think of all of the happy times you had with your papa. He will be watching over you too.

    Madeline

    Reply
  39. Kateri says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:30 AM

    Coming out of the closet to say that I’m so sorry things aren’t going well for you right now. Please know that this lurker really enjoys your blog…the good, the bad, and the sad. We also adopted from China and I have enjoyed following your adoptions. You and your family are an inspiration but you are allowed a bad day, a bad week, a bad month even. Please don’t apologize!
    Take care of yourself and know that I have lifted you up in prayer as well.
    Kateri
    http://www.thefiveofus.typepad.com

    Reply
  40. sara says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:45 AM

    Stefanie,

    Wishing I could hug you, sister, and just be still with you. I am so sorry that it is raining right now. I am praying for your family.

    Love,
    Sara

    Reply
  41. Heather says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:00 AM

    Awww Stef – you were in my prayers anyway for all that is going on, but I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. It is never the right time to lose people we love…we can rest in knowing He holds us tightly in the palm of His hand…in sadness, in new house, in medical issues, in everything that comes across our path.

    Thinking of you and sending hugs
    Love,
    Heather

    Reply
  42. Kim says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:09 AM

    Oh Stefanie,
    I am so, so sorry to hear of your loss… We will pray for your beautiful family.
    Blessings,
    Kim

    Reply
  43. mom 2 many says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:26 AM

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I will keep y’all in my prayers.

    Blessings,
    Carla

    Reply
  44. Andrea says

    August 15, 2008 at 6:22 AM

    I’m so sorry. I hope you get some extra hugs from the kids to help you feel a bit better.

    Reply
  45. ww says

    August 15, 2008 at 7:01 AM

    So sorry to hear of your loss of your father and that so much is going on all at once. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Blessings, Wendy

    Reply
  46. One Happy Momma says

    August 15, 2008 at 10:56 AM

    Stefanie –

    So sorry to hear about your dad. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Blessings to you and your family.

    Cathy
    Camie’s momma

    Reply
  47. bbmomof2boys says

    August 15, 2008 at 11:26 AM

    Hi Stefanie,

    I’m so so sorry about your dad. It’s so hard to lose a parent. When I lost both of mine I felt lost and alone. We will always miss them and always be reminded of them in something we see everyday. Please know that you and your beautiful family are in our prayers and thoughts.

    Hugs,
    Carla

    Reply
  48. Mortimer says

    August 15, 2008 at 11:31 AM

    I am one of your regular viewers. I enjoy all of you posts. I feel your sadness. Moving always seems to be waaay more difficult, but in the end you build a new home.
    I am so sorry about your dad. I know your pain, my dad died suddenly too. Take the time to feel your loss and find comfort in his eternal peace.

    Reply
  49. Naenay1012 says

    August 15, 2008 at 11:31 AM

    I am sorry for your loss and all the added stress.

    Reply
  50. Mike & Ramona says

    August 15, 2008 at 11:37 AM

    Oh Stephanie, I am soooo sorry to hear about your father. My thoughts and best wishes go out to you.

    Reply
  51. Whitty's Four says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:40 PM

    Your cup is running over. I cannot imagine losing a parent in the midst of all your change. Your way up on the stress scale girl!!
    Please know I did pray for you and I am so sorry to hear about your Dad.
    Sincerely,
    Karen Whitt

    Reply
  52. Nicole says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:42 PM

    Stefanie, You are in prayers EVERYDAY my good friend! Keep the FAITH!
    HUGS and LOVE,
    -Nicole

    Reply
  53. Anonymous says

    August 15, 2008 at 12:49 PM

    Praying for you Stefanie. May Jesus give you peace and strength and all that you need today. Leigh

    Reply
  54. Kellyann says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:13 PM

    I am so sorry to hear about your loss amongst all the other craziness in your life right now. My deepest sympathies.
    I hope you have a friend you can vent too and cry on there shoulder.

    Reply
  55. The Gang's All Here! says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:13 PM

    I’m so sorry for the loss of your Dad. What a comfort it must be to know that he is whole and healthy and worshipping the KING right now. I will pray for you all – as the hardest part is being the ones left behind.

    The “no rainbows” thing must be going around this week – seems as if it’s been a hard week for a lot of the bloggers I read. Myself included. Psalm 61 has been echoing in my heart – He is our Rock and our shelter!

    Reply
  56. Eileen says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:31 PM

    I’m so very sorry. My dad died last May so I’ve been there recently. Same scenario, late 70’s, poor health, but still a shock.

    I enjoy following your blog even though I don’t know if I’ve ever commented. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

    Reply
  57. Allison says

    August 15, 2008 at 1:36 PM

    Oh Stefanie–you are definitely in my prayers. I’m so sorry about your dad.

    Reply
  58. Linette says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:04 PM

    Praying for you as well Stefanie. I’m so sorry you’re hurting. I know the pain because my Dad died when I was 19. God knows your every need and lean on Him during this time. You have a lot going on right now. I’ll be praying God works it all out as only He can.

    Reply
  59. Desiree says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:24 PM

    Praying that you see rainbows soon. Moving is so hard, add to the mix kids, doctors appts. and new schools…. hang in there.

    Reply
  60. Wes and Tracy says

    August 15, 2008 at 2:33 PM

    Stefanie,
    I am so sorry to hear about your father. I know this must be a tough time for you.
    Know that your family will be in our prayers.

    Tracy

    Reply
  61. AnnaB says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:19 PM

    Loving you and praying for you from the western side of the states!!!! How I wish I lived close enough to lend a hand and to give you a great big hug.

    You can do it girl!

    Fondly,
    Anna

    Reply
  62. kris says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:23 PM

    Oh my gosh Stef. I am holding you SO close right now, remembering you in prayer. You know how to reach me, I am here, always, anytime.

    Reply
  63. Anonymous says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:24 PM

    You also don’t know me. I am a friend of Jana’s in Kentucky. Your blog has lightened my day so many times. During these difficult times, know that you are thought of often. You and your family are in my prayers.

    Lisa P.

    Reply
  64. Tami and Bobby Sisemore Family says

    August 15, 2008 at 3:49 PM

    my prayers and hugs are with you today friend.

    Sorry for your loss
    Tami
    Noah’s Mommy
    http://www.tillGodbringsthemhome.blogspot.com

    Reply
  65. Colleen says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:43 PM

    Praying for your family~

    Reply
  66. Wendy says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:45 PM

    I’m so sorry about your Dad. Losing someone is the hardest thing I know. I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. The sunshine and rainbows will return. In the meantime, be easy on yourself.

    Reply
  67. Anonymous says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:50 PM

    Dearest Stefanie,

    We are so very saddened to learn of the loss of your father. Please know that your whole family will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

    Love,
    Joe and Jennifer K.

    Reply
  68. Deb, Joe, Keeva says

    August 15, 2008 at 4:53 PM

    Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at the time. It’s hard to keep going at times like this but try to take comfort in the knowledge that he is home now with the Lord.
    Bless you all.

    Reply
  69. Cindy says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:14 PM

    Dear Stefanie and family,
    So sorry for the loss of your Dad/Grandpa. Mine is gone too and I know what you are feeling, very normal and so I am sending you huge HUGS today. I think of you alot lately as I miss your blog updates and I wondered how things were going. Sorry that you have so much to deal with right now, not fun but you are capable with the Lord carrying you. Hugs to you all, you are in our thoughts daily. Prayers send your way from CA today…and tomorrow…

    Reply
  70. Global Girl says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:42 PM

    Hugs, hugs, hugs.

    Reply
  71. Alice says

    August 15, 2008 at 5:47 PM

    I am so sorry for you loss. Our prayers will be with you….

    Alice
    Another AF wife…who has adopted from China (stationed in Delaware)

    Reply
  72. Anonymous says

    August 15, 2008 at 6:02 PM

    Sorry for your loss!
    Please don’t be so hard on yourself. We moms tend to do that way to much. You are amazing and have been such an example to so many people through your adoptions…I am one of them!
    I will be praying for you. Hope your rainbows return soon!
    Sincerely,
    Heather in TN

    Reply
  73. ingab says

    August 15, 2008 at 7:34 PM

    Hello
    You don’t know me, but I followed your journey to Shepherd and have continued with your blog. I really felt compelled to comment today on your issues you are having. I lost my father 8 years ago and my mother 2 years ago. My dad was 70 and he went into the hospital for a virus so we thought and 3 days later he was dead. All at the same time, my mother had found out she had stage 4 cancer. The reason I tell you this, is that even though you feel sad right now and even as the days go by, you will still experience the sadness, but it will get much better. I found thinking about things that my dad would do, the silly things. I found comfort in that. It was at that time also, that I formed a much better relationship with God and found that he will get you through this. Some think I am crazy, but I remember vividly that after he died my brother, sister and I went into the room, he was laying on the bed and the room had sort of a glow to it, a yellow/white glow and at that moment my tears dried completely up. Knowing that he is in heaven also helped me get through this. If your dad was like mine, he would not want you to be miserable and upset, he would want you to know that he is in heaven and its the best place.

    Nothing can ever prepare you for some situations and they seem that much worse when you having house problems as well. Just breath deep, take it one day at a time and you will make it through.

    Reply
  74. Gwen says

    August 15, 2008 at 8:21 PM

    Although we don’t know each other I follow along with all your adoptions and wonderful (aka: busy) family adventures. We too are adopting from China and can’t wait for the day our family is complete. I totally understand how the “little things” (with the house etc.) can add up to overwelming. We just found out today that our backyard is SINKING! Yes, we have a 4 foot deep sinkhole big enough to swallow our kids!! So my heart goes out to you today; both for the stress you are feeling with the loss of your Dad, the move, the kids…..well everything! I hope your rainy days turn sunny again soon. 🙂

    Reply
  75. Maureen says

    August 15, 2008 at 8:35 PM

    So sorry for your loss Stefanie. I always pray for your family, but will add something extra for you until you are feeling happy and strong again.

    Hugs,

    Maureen

    Reply
  76. The Morris Family says

    August 15, 2008 at 9:21 PM

    So sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in thought and prayer.

    Reply
  77. Michelle says

    August 15, 2008 at 9:23 PM

    I am sending you the biggest of hugs, Stefanie. You have been in my thoughts and prayers so much lately because I know you have so much on your plate. I am so, so sorry to hear about your father. I lost mine a year ago last week and I know how deep the pain is right now. God will give you the strength to get through this. Please know that I am thinking of you and lifting you and your family up in prayer.

    Reply
  78. Heather says

    August 15, 2008 at 11:04 PM

    I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I have followed your blog for a while and you are truly an inspiration to me. I have a 4 year old daughter from China and we are currently in the process of adopting our son who is 3 years old. Please dont be too hard on yourself. Change is diffcult for everyone. We will keep ya’ll in our prayers.

    Reply
  79. Michelle@Life with Three says

    August 16, 2008 at 1:08 AM

    I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I am praying that you might find peace and comfort as you go through the coming days and weeks. You’ve got a lot going on now, but hang in there. Stay focused on the One who calms the storm and take it one day at a time.

    Reply
  80. Emy says

    August 16, 2008 at 1:12 AM

    So, so sorry about your Dad.

    Praying that the rainbows are there for you tomorrow!

    Reply
  81. Anonymous says

    August 16, 2008 at 1:38 AM

    Hi, from an internet friend in the Atlanta area. I’m so sorry to hear that you’re going through so much right now. You are in my prayers right now for comfort and strength to make it through this difficult time.

    Praying,
    Tammy

    Reply
  82. Carrie says

    August 16, 2008 at 2:13 AM

    I will keep you in our prayer- I am so sorry for your loss. I don’t write to you often on your blogg but check you site daily! hang in there and remember God is with you!

    Reply
  83. ehc says

    August 16, 2008 at 3:34 AM

    My deepest condolences to you and your family.

    Reply
  84. Denise says

    August 16, 2008 at 3:46 AM

    Oh, Stephanie, you have been on my mind lately, and now I know why…praying for you and sending many hugs your way~

    Reply
  85. Sister Kim Engelhart says

    August 16, 2008 at 4:24 AM

    Dear Stefanie,

    You have been and will remain in my prayers as you endure your cross daily. My dad passed away 3.13.07, although we knew it was coming…the time of “final” hits us all even when we know what we believe. What has helped me in my life since his death is to pray to God through the intercession of my dad. He can and has helped me while he has been in heaven much more than he ever was able to do on earth. He is whole and complete in God now as your dad is too…Beg your dad and God to help you out NOW!!! A prayer I use often and especially when I don’t have much energy for anything else is to “breath in and say Jesus and breath out and say Mercy” over and over trusting that God will give me inner peace and all that I need…My prayers are with you…know that you are loved and cared for…Love and Prayers Sister Kim, OSB

    Reply
  86. Anonymous says

    August 16, 2008 at 4:29 AM

    Stefanie,

    Just wanted to let you know that you and your precious family are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Charlene

    Reply
  87. Susan says

    August 16, 2008 at 4:43 AM

    Oh Stefanie. When I read the words you Dad had died, I wanted to wrap my arms around you. I too lost my Dad very suddenly only a few months prior to his 76th birthday. We later learned he passed into the arms of his heavenly Father on the exact day our daughter was born across the world.

    I’m so very very sorry all this seems to have hit at once for you. I know our grief is selfish as our Dad’s do indeed have a perfect and whole body and are enjoying the Glory of our almighty King face to face. We are still here, and the hole in your heart will always be a reminder of your love for your precious Dad. What would we do without the knowledge of eternal security during such times??!

    May the Peace only He can give blanket you during these darkest hours.
    With love in Him.
    S.

    Reply
  88. Sharon says

    August 16, 2008 at 8:51 AM

    Hi there, I read your blog occasionally, but you don’t know me. I am sorry you are going through such a hard time. You and your family are in my prayers and thoughts.

    Sharon

    Reply
  89. mimi4 says

    August 16, 2008 at 12:59 PM

    so sorry for your loss and will be praying for you and your family. hugs, mimi

    Reply
  90. Soliloquy says

    August 16, 2008 at 6:41 PM

    Oh girl. I am so sorry for your loss.

    Acts 17:28
    ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’

    God is sufficient. My prayer is that you KNOW THIS TO BE TRUE when you get to the other side of this difficult stretch.

    Praying! Hugs!

    Reply
  91. Jenny & Robert says

    August 16, 2008 at 10:42 PM

    Hi Stefanie,
    I’m sorry this is all happening to you at once. Will be thinking of you back here in Ga.
    Jenny G.

    Reply
  92. KCD says

    August 17, 2008 at 12:54 AM

    Stephanie and gang,
    Our prayers for your strength and courage as you face the unexpected and the unpredictable path through grief. Take time alone, for yourself, and for your family. Rest, eat well and give yourself time to understand this new path. Certainly your plate was full even before the loss of your Dad, the move, the new additions, trips to Iowa and China. Take the time you need and know many, many folks are praying for you and your family as you face these challenges. Hold onto the knowledge that there will light at the end of the grieving process soon enough. You will get there!
    Kathleen
    CCAI Gr 607 and 1091

    Reply
  93. Diana says

    August 17, 2008 at 3:04 AM

    I am so sorry about your dad. My dad passed away a month ago and OMG it is so hard. My mom passed away in Sept and knowing he is with my mom helps but I wish they were still both here with me and my kids.
    Sending big hugs and prayers.
    Diana

    Reply
  94. Anonymous says

    August 17, 2008 at 4:21 AM

    Hey Steph & Chris – as always you are in our prayers and thoughts. We have been away this week, on vacation – I got the chance to see my dad for six of those days, the first time since his heart attack this summer. I got to make him a birthday cake for his 76th on Monday. When it came time to say goodbye today I broke down in tears. I am very afraid it will be the last time I might see him. So long way short, I feel for you in your sadness and loss. Its a hard time of our lives when we realize that those people who have cared so long for us will be leaving soon, or have just left. While there are better things to come, there is no replacing their support and advice. So, take a moment, breathe deeply, relax and know that God's plan is still working in your life. You will never be given more than you can handle – All the best, Stacy (& Bruce)

    Reply
  95. Qiuqiu's parents says

    August 17, 2008 at 2:50 PM

    I’m so sorry, Stefanie. I don’t know what’s harder than losing a parent. You’re in my heart right now.

    Reply
  96. Jana says

    August 18, 2008 at 1:51 AM

    Stefanie:

    Keeping you in my prayers and I’m so very sorry about your loss. I lost my own Dad several years ago so I know first-hand that empty feeling. To this day, I STILL find myself wanting to call him to share some bit of news or to ask his advice. Love to you as you weather this storm.

    jana

    Reply
  97. Leslie says

    August 18, 2008 at 6:01 PM

    Oh Stephanie, I wish I lived closer, I would give you big huge hugs but more importantly would help you out with the day to day stuff.
    I am so sorry to hear about your father. I will say a special prayer for your family.
    I’ve told you before that I don’t know how you do it. I pray that God gives you the strength you need to get through ALL of the issues that you listed. Just take them one day at a time. Hang in there and know that we are all behind you to lift you up!
    Even super heros have to fly through the clouds sometimes! Praying for your rainbow!

    Reply
  98. Lost and Found says

    August 18, 2008 at 7:14 PM

    I am so sorry for the loss of your father. My thoughts are with you.

    Reply
  99. Tami says

    August 18, 2008 at 10:58 PM

    My deepest sympathies on the loss of your father, Stefanie. Wow, your plate has sure been full these past few months!! I admire your stamina, and your sead fast faith. You’re such an inspiration!I hope you and your family are settling comfortably into your new home, and things are calming down, at least a bit, for you.

    Shepherd’s feet look great!

    As always, you’re in my prayers. Wishing you much peace, and sending hugs!

    Tami

    Reply
  100. Dave & Heather says

    August 19, 2008 at 12:09 AM

    Stephanie,
    I am another adoptive mom and although we have never met, I follow your life through this blog. You give me great strength and encouragement in parenting (ie. if she can handle 8, surely I can handle 4!) I wish now that I could give a little strength back. I am praying for you and your family. The storm will pass.
    God Bless,
    Heather

    Reply
  101. Mary says

    August 19, 2008 at 4:01 AM

    Oh, gosh, Stefanie. I just checked your site and what a shock. I am so very sorry. I pray that the Lord wraps you all in His love as you grieve the loss of your father.
    Much love from Florida,
    Mary Rodin et al (from Guangzhou 6/07 when you traveled for Jude…us for Sophie!).

    Reply
  102. kim says

    August 19, 2008 at 4:15 AM

    Oh Stefanie! I am so sorry to hear that! You were on my heart all weekend, now I know why. God bless you. I know its hard. You are going to make it. You are such a special person, and our whole family loves you!

    Reply
  103. trina says

    August 19, 2008 at 5:08 AM

    I’m so sorry about your dad. I will continue to pray for you. Big, big hug!
    trina

    Reply
  104. Rebecca says

    August 19, 2008 at 7:19 PM

    Oh Stef… I am praying for you sister!! I know that feeling of exhaustion and one-thing-after-the-other… go read my post today, it’s about delighting in God and He in us. I am going through a “rainy” time here too and God has really been using it to wash away what I had been clinging to. He is all you need!

    Here is a verse I hope encourages you: Psalm 61:2

    From the ends of the earth I call to you,
    I call as my heart grows faint;
    Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

    Reply
  105. Beverly says

    August 21, 2008 at 6:06 PM

    So sorry about your dad!! Praying for you and your whole family.

    Reply
  106. Super Mommy says

    August 24, 2008 at 8:03 PM

    Hugs and prayers for you and your family.

    Reply
  107. Ronnica says

    August 28, 2008 at 7:48 PM

    Sorry to hear this. I know that this was a couple of weeks ago, but I know that the pain is probably still there. Praying for you and your family today.

    Reply

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I'm Stefanie. Wife to one, mom to 13. Occasional blogger and t-shirt maker. Wannabe photographer and exerciser. Constant grace-needer and orphan advocator. more
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