Bottle free!!

Well, Levi is doing great now without hos bottle. I cannot believe that things went so smooth coming off it all at once and just not bringing it out again. I am so proud of him. Now if potty training comes as easy we'll be doing good. We went and bought a potty just to sit him on it off and on and let him get used to the whole idea of it. When he's ready we'll do that but, I personally think he's still too young to get the whole idea of it even if he hates being wet and pulls at his diaper when he is. He does grab his diaper when you ask if he's wet and sometimes goes to get one when he is but, I think it'll still be a little bit before he's ready for the potty... we'll see. Nancy, Eric and Isaac are still at the beach and although Eric has swimmers' ear and has been to the doctor twice I think they are having a good first vacation as a family. The new picture of Isaac here is one she posted on his blog from the beach. I miss them and can't wait till they are home and we can get together and I can see him walking! He finally turned loose and took off by himself walking now!! I am excited for them and can't wait to see him walk. I know his mamaw Kay can't wait either. I bet this has been a long 2 weeks for her and Doug with Isaac being gone. Headed to bed soon. I have been on a cleaning spree while Steve and Levi are snoring! I have to do this while Levi is asleep but, I am getting tired being that it's 5:30am! I took a nap and got back up to clean while he is asleep. I get more done that way. - Tracy

Coming off the bottle!

Hey all, it's been a little while since I last posted but, we've been so busy with Steve being in the hospital and work that I haven't found the time to update the blog. Anyway, the only thing that is really new is that a week ago today Levi had only taken a few ounces of milk for the whole day from his bottle. He pretty much had his sippy cup all day instead. When I realized that last Sunday afternoon, I thought I would try just the sippy only on Monday, even for naps. He did fine. Therefore, I decided we would just take it all together and see how things went. If they got too bad I would give it back and try again later. However, he didn't really do that bad just at naptime and bedtime mainly. We just had to start wearing him down so he would go to sleep easier since he wouldn't have the security of his bottle at bedtime. He has been almost a full week bottle free today. We are so proud of him that he's done this well. In this past week there has been a few times where I know he was wanting it bad and I felt so sorry for him but, I think if he's come this far it's too late to give it back now.We went and bought a potty so we're ready when he is for that one. He will pull at the front of his diaper if you ask him if he's wet so, maybe soon he'll be ready. Until then... Tracy , aka "Levi's mom"

Play date yesterday with Guatemala group

Hey, I know I haven't posted in awhile but, I have been so busy and Steve finally got to come home Friday after being in the hospital since April 5th. Levi is so excited that daddy is back home and he is just all over him and dropped me once again.I'm now just the diaper changer, feeder, bather and bottle maker once again. No really, I don't mind daddy needs some extra bonding time again with him and is loving every minute of it.
Yesterday, Levi and I joined Nancy, Isaac and Eric attending a local group Nancy was somewhat involved with before Isaac came home for other couples who have Guatemalan/adopted children. They get together several times a year just to stay in touch and have play dates for the kids. I think it's real important as they all grow up to know where they came from and that there are many other kids also from Guatemala who live near them. I plan to stay in touch with this group and try and take Levi to all their events. The gathering yesterday was at Warriors Path State Park in Kingsport. They have a new playground that was awesome and the kids loved it. They had a good turnout but, it was so hot! Those poor dark skinned, black headed kids were all sweatin' like crazy! Levi had a good time though and as far as I know that was his first time on a swing and he loved it.
Once it cooled off some outside I let him get in his new baby pool he got from his daddy and I for his birthday. He had the best time playing and splashing the water. Later in the evening Levi, daddy and I took a long nap together. It was nice!! Levi was so excited that we were all 3 there laying in the bed for a nap. He'd roll back and forth kissing daddy then kissing me. The past 2 nights have been so peaceful for him that he has slept through his morning bottles and barely moved through the night. He used to be so restless every night but, it is like he knows everything is back to normal (well we're working on normal but, better) like before Steve got sick. Nice to be home and try and get straightened out with Levi's routine again. Blessings- Levi's mommy

Steve's 1st Father's Day

Well, Sunday went pretty well for Steve's 1st Father's Day. I had everything planned out of what Levi and I were going to do for the day. First, we went to the hospital early enough for us to watch the church service with him. His sister, Becky had our web cam there and we tried to watch it live via web cam but, the hospital Internet is a little slower than the church high speed Internet (at least that was what I figured it was) and it was a little choppy at times. After we watched the service, I had cooked a roast that Steve had been asking me to make so we ate... well. I had a truck load of stuff to carry into the hospital. We gave him his gifts and Levi played and played there getting into everything! He went from pushing all the buttons on Steve's bed to playing with his remote... like I said into everything. We finally left to come home and Steve got to nap and we came home to take one too. Levi slept for 2 hrs and of course I did too... it was nice. All in all we had a pretty good day spending time with daddy and then just resting and I spent some extra time home with Levi, which has been hard to do lately with Steve being in the hospital. We just can't wait for him to get back home to us and things get back to normal. - Levi's mommy

My bonding time cut short!

Well, today is it! My bonding time has been cut short and it's unfortunately time for me to return to work and it's all too soon. I feel like I haven't had any time to bond with Levi at times and then at others I feel like we've done well to bond as much as we have. I feel like he's always been with us and he's just a perfect fit for our family. I am returning to work tomorrow and although I am away from him everyday to see and take care of Steve while he's still in the hospital I could still come home back and forth whenever I wanted and now I am back to work on a set schedule again and back to reality. I hope he will not forget me and not want anything to do with me after he's with my mom for 13 hours a day for the next 2 before I am off for a few. The ONLY good thing about working 12 hr shifts is that I only have a 3 day work week and not a Monday through Friday schedule. Going back to Monday through Friday would kill me. Hoping today we can fit in some one on one with him and we can do something together just me and him. I have decided on at least one day off a week I would like to do something special with him and not just sit around the house. Hopefully his daddy will be home with us soon and we can get back on a normal schedule and bond again as a family. Until then... we press on and make this schedule work for at least a few more weeks. Steve has now been in the hospital for 2 months and counting. We miss him being home with us and can't wait until he's back! Pray that I can make it a 12 hour shift tomorrow and get in a few good hours with Levi before I start all over on Tuesday. I'll be worn out my first few days back as I have not been used to being on my feet for 12 since I was doing home health before. I know it'll be nice being back once I am there but, leaving Levi will never get easier I don't think. I could easily be content being a stay at home mom! I love nursing but, I love being Levi's mom even more. Blessings...Levi's mommy

Levi's 1st haircut!

Today my baby got his first haircut and he was such a big boy! He did so well! I was so proud of him that he sat still and even on the little booster and had it cut and she used the clippers and he didn't cry not one tear! After the haircut, which is so cute, Levi and I had some time together eating Chinese where he had a blast squealing and playing enjoying it as much as I did. Steve was so sweet to want us to spend that time together today knowing I have to go back to work next week and have less than a week home with him. After the haircut, Chinese food and a nap on the way we went to see daddy in the hospital where he played well with Steve again today. He's missed him so much! Then I got a workout taking him into Walmart when he was wired up. He had birthday money left to spend so we cruised the toy department. Lately he has been very attached to a baby Glow worm that we have named "Glowie". She has become the second most important "woman" in his life to me right now and he has to have her to go to sleep every night. Well, guess what he saw in the toy department...her sisters haha! He had melt down thinking they were HER! It was cute but tragic for him that we weren't taking all of them home. Bless it! Well, he crashed in the car after blowing kisses to strangers all through the checkout. All in all we had one of the best days we have had together since he has been with us. I hope to have another mommy and Levi day again soon if not before I return to work on one of my days off soon. I want to take him to the park and see how he likes a baby swing. Maybe we will go with Nancy and Isaac soon to the park for a play date. Until there is more to post.. Blessings

Catching up

Hey all- I have been so busy with Steve being in the hospital coming up on 2 months this week and Levi crawling now and into everything that I am constantly chasing him to keep him out of things. I have just been running back and forth between Levi and Steve to manage everything. I go back to work, unfortunately, a week from today and will have even more to do then. I am transferring back to the hospital and will actually be working on the floor where Steve is right now in the hospital. I am ready to get back to work but not ready by any means to leave Levi for that long everyday. I do have to leave him everyday with my mom and dad or other family to watch him while I visit Steve but, it'll be even worse for the 12 hr shift three days a week. It'll be different knowing I am going to be away from him for that many hours of the day. I am sure I am not going through anything any other working parent hasn't been through, just stinks. I will miss him so much while I am working I know. I will also miss my patient I had in home health but, my circumstances right now do not allow for any extra travel time to get to work (I was driving quite a ways in home health from my house to my patients' house) plus Steve just wanted me to be closer to home and close to him while he's so sick and in the hospital. Long story short, it will all work out. The Lord is doing awesome work in Steve's life and with his healing arm and leg. He has come so far but, is so ready to come home to Levi and I. He misses us as bad as we miss him being there. Until I have more to post... we're all blessed and making it one day at a time. Blessings- Levi's mommy

A day to be thankful

I don't have the time to post much anymore but, I did want to post today that I am so thankful that Levi and Isaac are home. There is just so much going on in Guatemala with adoptions that are pending. I still get all the posts by email and read them as I have time and to read some of the things the adoptive parents,the birth mothers and especially the children who are waiting or "caught up in the system" are having to go through right now... just makes us thankful! On mornings like this one when Levi rolls over and kisses your cheek as soon as he opens his eyes... it makes it all so worth all we went through to get him here. But too, you remember when you were still waiting and the heavy burden the mothers waiting now have on them. Until there is more... just happy to be Levi's mom and have all that behind us now. Please say a prayer for those still waiting and that the babies get home to their forever families soon. Blessings- Tracy (Levi's mommy)

My Mother's Day

Hey all- sorry I haven't had the time to post much lately with Steve in the hospital still and Levi on the go more I don't get much computer time right now. I just thought I would tell you a little about my first Mother's Day and how it went. It was a better day than I expected it to turn out to be. Steve was adamant that I take Levi to church myself on MD so, I did that because I promised him I would. He said it meant a lot to him for me to go so I did. Levi woke up so loving and sweet almost like he knew that I was going to need his hugs and kisses to make it through the day without Steve there to share it with us. We went to church where he had a blast as usual. He loves going to church and is becoming very social there as if he's always been there. He likes the attention he still gets from everybody. After church my dad wanted to take me and my mom to eat and we had a nice meal with Levi (who started grabbing at everyone who got within his reach ?? something new I guess.) After church and lunch, I headed to the hospital to see Steve and he had his sister to arrange a gift from him that he picked out while he was in the Rehab Hospital. He bought me the prettiest necklace and matching earrings and it was such a surprise. It meant a lot that he would make such an effort from ICU to beat it all. In the shape he was in he was still thinking about it being my day and trying to make it a special one. He is so sweet!! I got a good one that is for sure! I spent some time with Steve and then made it home in time to give Levi his bedtime bottle and rock him to sleep. So, all in all it was a nice day. I even came home from church to a huge bunch of flowers in an outdoor pot that my aunt and uncle and cousin brought by since it was my first Mother's Day. That was thoughtful of them and a big surprise too. The flowers were beautiful. Mom and dad made an extra effort to make it special too and they let Levi write with a pen in a card for me. I will cherish his little scribbled pen marks forever. He used the flowers she had as a weapon I think, he knocked off half the blooms within 2 seconds of having them to hand to me. Again, so sweet I guess that is the joys of having a rough little boy instead of a prissy girl-haha! Getting beat half to death with your Mother's Day flowers before they make it to a vase just makes for more memories I guess. I had a nice outfit from mom, dad and Levi too which was also nice of them to think of me. Until there is more to update... keep praying for Levi's daddy to be home with us again soon. Things just aren't the same without him there and we miss him a lot. Blessings- Tracy

First official Mother's Day

Well, today marks my first official Mother's Day and of course it's not going to turn out quite like I pictured it with Steve in the hospital. I thought I would be going to church with my husband and we would spend the day together as a family for my 1st. Steve is disappointed he couldn't be the one to take me to church on my first MD. But, he can't help it, he didn't choose to be in ICU sick. I was planning to skip church all together since he couldn't be with me but, he insisted that I take Levi and us go on to church together today. I promised him I would go since he was begging. I just didn't want to go without him. I plan to have myself or Becky record the service whichever one of us doesn't have Levi keeping him occupied. Steve is wanting to watch the church service at the hospital sometime in the afternoon. My dad wants to take me and my mom to eat after church so, I guess that is my plans for the special day. Although, it won't be near as special as I pictured it would be, I am still very thankful that Levi is home with us now and that in itself makes for a happy day. He is such a joy to us all!
With all that is going on in Guatemala and for some of the adoptive mothers who are still waiting my heart goes out to them today too. I know what it was like for us last year as we waited for Levi not knowing when he'd be home with us. They have it even worse now for the pending cases, they are facing more trouble and delays everyday. For them today will weigh heavy on their hearts and minds not knowing when and if they will bring home their babies.
As for Nancy she is so excited to be sharing her special day with Isaac and like myself just the proud new mom with one cute Guatemalan boy! I got to see him yesterday for just a minute and he is just the cutest thing! He is cuter every time I see him and just the sweetest thing!
Until next time... Tracy (aka Levi's mom)

Levi's Welcome home party

Hey, I wanted to post and let everyone know about Levi's welcome home/1st birthday party. We have sent out some invitations by mail and some by email. However, I accidentally sent the emailed ones from the draft Steve did for me yesterday from the hospital on the laptop. I didn't realize he wasn't finished and I sent out like 60-65 invitations by email before I got the first call asking why I was having a party on a Thursday? Well, I am NOT.. it was supposed to be Saturday, May 3rd not the 1st on Thursday!! I sent a corrected invitation to all the people who I had sent the wrong one to, I think. Anyway... your all invited to come join us in celebrating Levi's homecoming and his US Citizenship and the fact that he just turned one this week. I look forward to those of you meeting him who have not had the chance to yet. He is the sweetest thing! He got to see his daddy in the hospital today and spend some time with him outside which he enjoyed. He didn't care too much for the grass but, he seemed to like being outside in the sun. Until I have more to update.... Blessings- Tracy (aka "mama")

My baby is 1!!

Hey, I just wanted to post that Levi had a good day yesterday for his first birthday. We went to the hospital and spent time with daddy where he played hard with him and got so sleepy. Then he came back to mamaw and papaw's house where he had cake again and opened some presents. We haven't given him ours yet but, plan to at his party hopefully next weekend. Nancy said Isaac had a good day too. They celebrated with him by taking him for Mexican food and letting him eat one of his favorites rice and beans. Levi started whole milk today and did great on it so far.
Although it was awesome waking up right beside him and being able to kiss his sweet little face and just watch him sleep this morning, one of the first things that crossed my mind in thinking of Levi's birthday was his birth mom. I couldn't help but wonder if yesterday she remembered a year ago she had him and gave him up... the ultimate sacrifice for him to have a better life full of opportunities? Even though it is so natural now that he's home and he is a perfect fit to make our family complete... I think of her sometimes and wonder how much Levi crosses her mind? If she misses him and wonders what he's look like now? I guess that is just natural to wonder all those unanswered questions about her. I just pray she has peace and that God lets her know in His own way that Levi is well and loved so much. I would love the opportunity to just tell her we will always love him more than anything and promise to take being his parents very serious. - Tracy (aka "mama")

More cake today!

Today after Steve's family went to church they all decided to come by the hospital and surprise Steve with cake, a present and an Elmo balloon for Levi. Steve was a little upset that he was going to be in the hospital for Levi's first birthday and it was a nice surprise for him to get to see Levi tear into some more cake today. He had a mess but, not like he did yesterday at Isaac's birthday party. I'm not sure what but, I will be doing something for him at home tomorrow. He got presents from both sets of Isaac's grandparents yesterday so, he will get those tomorrow too I guess. We had planned a big welcome home party for all the extended family we have who still have not gotten to meet him but, since Steve is in the hospital we have postponed that for a few weeks until daddy's home to enjoy that too. Papaw is going to just re-do the invitations and we'll have it in a few weeks. After Levi got all sugared up again on cake today he was headed back to church tonight with his aunt Becky. Praying that daddy gets to come back home to us this week sometime and we will try and get back on a schedule again and get things settled down some for him before I head back to work. I got the pictures posted today we've taken recently so enjoy~ Tracy (aka "mama")

Isaac's party

Well, today we went to Isaac's 1st birthday party at his house. We had a really good time getting to meet more of Isaac's family. He and Levi were both worn out from all the eating and playing they did. He got so many new things Eric and Nancy are going to have lots of fun putting things together and buying batteries. Isaac is just surrounded with so many people who love him and they were all so nice to us when they met Levi. They told me how they prayed for him to come home and just loved on him like he was family too... such nice people. We are blessed to have met them all and have them in our life as Levi and Isaac grow up. I took so many pictures I had a tough time choosing some new ones for this page. Levi and Isaac got into so much cake I had to give Levi a complete bath in their tub before we could leave! Aunt Nancy let him get into the cake and he made a real mess at her house in Isaac's highchair. Isaac will hold up one finger to tell you he will be 1 yr old it is the cutest thing ever! Well, other than that Levi is still not crawling but, scoots and has the position to crawl down it's juts getting him to move in it... but, he will eventually I know. He says several words now... mama, dada, bye, hi, Elmo, shoes, teeth, Nana, and bite. I think that covered all he is saying right now. He will still go backwards in a walker. He will do patty cake. Since Steve is in the hospital still, Levi is going to church with his aunt Becky tomorrow. Last time she took him... I heard he had a blast and the more they clapped the more he liked it. - Tracy

Enjoyed our visit with Isaac-

Hey, we had our visit from Nancy and Isaac and we enjoyed having them come by our house for a few hours on Tuesday. They had lunch with Levi and I and they played for a little while before both boys started getting sleepy and a little fussy. We tried to get some pictures of them but, i am not sure we got many good ones because they weren't in the mood for a photo session, maybe next time. We hope to have the boys meet again for another play date before I go back to work just 3 short weeks from today. I don't even want to think about that. I don't mind work just hate the thoughts of being away from Levi for three 12 hr shifts a week. Plus, I work 4o minutes away so, I work a 12 hr day then it takes another hour to get home. By the time I get home it's nearly bedtime for Levi. I guess we'll have to adjust just like every other mom who works long hours with kids.
Steve has been working for days on a photo site for our pictures to be uploaded to. It is turning out nice for us to be able to share our pictures (because we take plenty of them) with our family and friends. We no longer have the time to email them to everyone so, Steve thought this would work out better for everyone to see them whenever they want.
Today, we had a day out with mamaw and we went shopping for a play pen and found one that Levi just loves playing in. He had a big day and went to see some friends who have been our prayer partners through this adoption process so, he got lots of love and kisses today (as always). We tried to call the foster mom but, just couldn't get the phone to connect.. we will try again maybe tomorrow. We are planning to go see Nana's friends are her work tomorrow so we have another full day planned to be out and about in the car. He does so well in the car seat and just likes to be out and about. He doesn't seem to mind it at all. He is such a good baby. Until next time- Tracy (aka "momma")

Easter was a big day!

Hey, I hadn't posted in a little bit so thought I would while Levi is down for his afternoon nap. He's been getting out a lot since last week. It seems we've been somewhere new about everyday and he's not minded it at all. He loves getting out of the house and doesn't mind the car seat unless he's so sleepy he is fighting it. We took him to church his 1st time on Easter Sunday and he did great! Everyone at church was so glad to meet him and just happy he's finally home. After church we went to his Nana and Poppy's house (Steve's mom and step father) for dinner where he got to be with all Steve's family at one time. He had a blast playing and when we left there he was worn out. He took about a 3 hour nap after playing hard all afternoon. The bigger picture I posted is Levi in his Easter outfit. He looked gorgeous. We took a family picture on the church steps after church since it was his first church service and Easter. We've just enjoyed every minute of our sweet boy since he's been home. It seems like he's been with us forever. Like I said before, he's a perfect fit for our family.
Last week we met Isaac and Nancy for breakfast at IHOP. We enjoyed our visit together and we're planning for them to come over to our house tomorrow for a play date. Isaac will be glad to see his daddy tomorrow afternoon who will be returning from a work trip to Mexico for the past week. Pray for his safe return where his boy and mommy will be waiting for him at the airport. We thought that would be a good time for Levi and Isaac to play a little before they head to pick Eric up. It'll be interesting to see how they act aside from a restaurant setting together since they've not been together since Atlanta when we were waiting for immigration clearance. Nancy and I cannot wait until it's warm enough to take them to the park and get them outside to play. Levi is considering crawling but, hasn't made that last move to figure it out just yet. He is so close but, just not mastered it yet. Maybe seeing Isaac crawling tomorrow will help him figure it out. Steve is working on a picture site for our pictures of Levi to be posted all in one place. I will let everyone know when that is up and running and send you the invitation to visit the site. Until next time... Tracy (Levi's mom)

Update from the Bradley home

Hey all- just wanted to let everyone know all is well at home with Levi. If we could break him from biting we'd be great. His constipation has improved greatly since his meds have kicked in. I think we have everything flowing well (possibly a little too well) right now. But, better than the alternative and all that he had to go through a few days ago. He seems to be happy all the time now. His foster mom called tonight to talk to him on the phone. I couldn't understand her o course because she speaks no English. I put the phone to Levi's ear and he just listened and laughed. I am glad she could hear him playing and laughing and know he's happy. After she hung up, I called her back with our translator. She was relieved to know that both boys are adjusting well and happy with their new family and in their new home. I reassured her that all is well with them both. I haven't talked to Nancy much since we've been home but, we've both been so busy juggling everything around Levi and Isaac. Levi appears to have at least one more maybe two more teeth trying to come in and he's been wanting to chew on everything (including us as I already mentioned). We plan to go out tomorrow for several errands so... we''ll see how that goes. Although he's not minded the car seat much at all; as long as your moving. When you stop the car, he's ready to get out. We have no complains with how he's done though so far... he's been great. He is such a good, happy baby, we are blessed! Until next time, for those who are close enough, come see us. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Settling in at home~

Hey- just wanted to post an update and let everyone know that Levi is adjusting well and has bonded well with both Steve and I. He's had some family come by for two days to visit and done so well with them too. He's so loving it doesn't seem to be taking him long to warm up. He's just the sweetest thing and he amazes us everyday with new things that he's learning to do. He is certainly a daddy's boy that is for sure. It is so sweet to see him love on Steve especially in the mornings when he wakes up. He is happy most of the time unless he's sleepy and fighting it or needing to "poo". He is having a little trouble in that area so keep him in your prayers. He was seen today by the pediatrician for the first time and he was checked from head to toe. We were planning to wait until next week but, since he was having a real hard time with his bowels yesterday we went ahead and went in today. He had to have blood work and they did some more tests to make sure he is free from any parasite he may have picked up in Guatemala. She felt like he was well taken care of by his foster mom and a very healthy, happy baby. The doctor felt he should just go ahead and repeat his vaccinations so, he got 3 and another stick for the TB skin test. Needless to say he hated that place. He clapped and clapped when we were walking out the door. They changed his diet some too so we'll see if that helps too. So.. all in all we're good! Pray for Isaac as he gets put through all the same tests tomorrow afternoon for his first visit to the pediatrician. Until next time.. Blessings and thanks for all the emails and phone calls to welcome us home. - Tracy (Levi's mom)

Heading home from Guatemala!!

Hey all- just wanted to post and let you all know that we're headed home from Guatemala later today. I should already be in bed but, I have been busy packing our things and making sure I have everything I may need for Levi during our forst part of the flight which is 4 long hours from Guatemala to Atlanta. I am praying Levi will be ok on the flight and not get too upset about it.

Yesterday, we were able to take a tour to Antigua. We visited the Jade Factory, coffee plantation and old church and the market. It was great! We were able to see so much of the country just from the drive that we were so glad we went. Levi did great and was happy and playful all day. He's still doing great with the bonding and not had any troubles there so far.

After we returned from the tour, Levi and Isaac's foster mom came back by the hotel to drop off some documents. She was waiting to see them both but, Isaac had gone with Nancy and Eric to spend a few days in Antigua and then they came back to a different hotel. It was a hard decision to make and I said a prayer about it on the way back from Antigua that if we ran into her and she saw Levi then whatever happened would just have to be and we would deal with that. Well, that is what happened, she saw Steve carrying him in and was actually waiting there for us to return. She knew our tour returned at 3:30pm but, we were actually almost an hour late. She cried some and her son was with her and of course he was a little upset but, they seemed to be adjusting well as we are. Levi cried initially as if he was confused and a little scared. Steve calmed him quickly, I took him and handed him to her. It's like he hugged her, kissed her, she kissed him and then he turned to reach back for me, clinging as I got him hiding his face on my shoulder. It was like that was his goodbye... it broke my heart all over again but, I managed to hold it together and let it be at that. She brought us some Guatemalan gifts and things for the boys and was so happy to be able to give us some things to remember Guatemala by. Through the translator we told her we would call her and let her know how they were once we're home and we would send her some pictures over time. She said it was her prayer that when she saw him to say giidbye forever that her last memories of him would be that he was happy with his new family. She had total peace leaving knowing he would have a better life in the US.
Well, keep us in your prayers as we fly home today and we can't wait for you all to meet our sweet Guatemalan angel! He is awesome and we have enjoyed every minute of this pick up trip and this part of the adoption process as it has come to an end. Life is just beginning in the Bradley house I do believe. He has already brought us so much joy I know we can't even imagine what all he will bring us in the coming months/years. Love you all and thanks in advance for your prayers. Blessings- Tracy and Steve.... official parents in Guatemala

Update from Guatemala

Hey all- I had a minute and thoughtI would post an update. Levi had had a great day playing and been so happy. He has had us laughing all day. He finally has bonded with my mom and dad and is playing right along with them now too. He still wants us when he's sleepy but, that is ok. He had a bath again tonight and it went much better than last night. He splashed water all over the bathroom. He didn't get to get in the pool today because it has been warm out but so windy. He did pretty good in a stroller this evening but, being he's not been in one since I was here in January, he did well it just took him a minute. He's not used to going to bed early but, he played so hard for hours and he is just exhausted. we're not sure if he's down for the night or not but, hoping so. I am headed to bed just in case this turns out to be just a nap. I wanted to let everyone know though that he's been great today and been just like he's been with us all along. Dad is going a little stir crazy sitting here at the hotel all day everyday but, he's enjoying his bonding time all the same. He and my mom ventured out on the street today for a walk. Of course, his idea she was like me a little hesitant. Nancy, Eric and Isaac left this morning around 11am headed to Antigua for a few days. She called and said Isaac was fighting sleep really bad and cranky. hoping by now they are all snoozing! We won't see them again until we get to the airport on Tuesday. We are flying back to Atlanta on the same plane. It seems Levi and Isaac are possibly a little confused when they are around each other. It was almost like they didn't understand why we are all here together, I don't know just can't explain it. Anyway, hoping to continue to post about how well they are both doing until we head home in a few days. My concern is that thier foster mom wants to see them (she doesn't know Isaac is going to be at another hotel until we leave anyway) but, wants to come Monday afternoon to see Levi one more time before we leave for good. Initially we said ok but, now that he's done so well and our attorney's facilitator told us yesterday she didn't think it was best for Levi... I don't know what is the right thing to do. I so hate to do her that way after we agreed it was ok but, know that it truly probably isn't best. I feel so guilty denying her that one last look at him before we leave forever. However, I do have to think about what is best for Levi. Please pray about this with us as we have to be deciding what to tell her. She has to come back to the hotel either way to bring some documents I accidentally left in the duffle bag she brought his things in. The facilitator said she would tell her to leave those things at the front desk with the receptionist and all but, I don't know how well she took that or if she has already called to tell her that. I hate doing things through someone else too because you never know what she was told or how she took it. I guess the only thing I can do is have the hotel translator to call her myself tomorrow and tell her what we think is best. We are going on a tour Monday anyway but, she knew that and knew we wouldn't be back until the afternoon. I am not going to have to hide out from her but, just be honest with her what the agency thinks we should do. Until tomorrow.... - Tracy (Levi's mom)

Bonding in Guatemala~~

Hey all, although it's 4:45am and I am trying to see the keyboard in the dark I am going to try and update you on how Levi and Isaac are doing. We had our Embassy appointments yesterday and couldn't believe that there was no more to it than that. Steve and I were a little nervous and worried about it for nothing. It took a little while and it was at times a challenge to keep Levi entertained but, Steve handled that part and did a great job. Steve was physically exhausted afterwards and not able to do much of anything last night and yesterday evening. We just let him sleep all day and rest. It didn't help a lot as he is in quite a bit of pain from his joints and yes, of course Gout again. Bad timing for a Gout flare-up but, we're trying to manage it the best we can until we're home. Bless his heart we had to walk about 4 blocks from the parking lot to the Embassy and then waited in line forever before he ever got to sit down. He was about to die but, never complained once and carried Levi all the way. I could tell he was miserable but, knew he would do whatever it took to get that part over and have Levi's visa approved so we can bring him home. I saw this as a prime example of how people say.. you'll go through anything for your kids.
Anyway, Levi woke up smiling and happy after he slept all night (thank God for Benedryl, we rode out the crying for about an hour before we gave him half a dose.. we knew it was important that we all sleep well before having to be up and ready by 6:30am). The only person who got breakfast was Levi but, we survived. I thought for my first day being a full time mom we managed well. I had to wake him up and thought it would be a disaster but, he woke up happy like he did on our visits. He and Steve fell asleep in the waiting room at the US Embassy. Boy I wish they allowed cameras because that would have been a good picture moment. Levi was officially approved for his visa and they said our attorney could pick it up Monday afternoon after 3:30pm. We can't fly out until Tuesday. We met my mom and dad for breakfast after we returned to the hotel and changed clothes. Levi looked adorable in his little dress clothes. I however, forgot my dress shoes and had to wear casual clothes and that was embarrasing but, it worked all the same. Nancy, Eric and Isaac were there and all dressed up... what a cute family they make. Isaac is soooo attached to Eric. In the early afternoon, Eric decided to give Nancy and Isaac some bonding time alone by the pool. The weather was awesome! Nancy and Eric are going to return with a Guatemalan tan like they've been to the beach! Eric hung out with my mom and dad, Levi and I as we talked to them from the upper sundeck. As she pushed Isaac around in his stroller and had some one on one time with him it was the most I've seen her smile since I met her, she is so happy to have her son with her forever. We let Steve rest and sleep because he was done like I said earlier.
Levi bonded with my dad some which made for a priceless birthday present for him. It was a priceless moment for us all when he reached for dad on his own. He would smile and play with my mom but, not letting her get ahold of him just yet, not that she hasn't tried to bribe him with toys and food but, so far not yet. I think by the time they are around him today again, he'll give in and let her hold him. He wants to but, just is a little hesitant for some reason. My mom and dad have both done great to just let Levi take things slow and call the shots with that part. They haven't forced the issue at all and don't like to see him upset so, they are taking things slow too.
Dad has a terrible cough so keep him in your prayers. Levi is having some constipation issues and cried for about an hour last night with that (which we will be addressing full force once we're home) and Steve is hardly able to move from pain so, please remember them all in your prayers and hope these issues resolve and we're able to enjoy our last few days in Guatemala bonding and making some ground with Levi. Every bit of time that passes you can see a difference in him in that he's becoming more and more comfortable around us both so, we are pleased with the progress he's made. Oh, and blew my mind but, he stayed in a highchair for the first time last night at supper and was great!!! He didn't like it at first but, once we gave him some spoons to bang on the table and toys he was ok with it for the longest time. Today we tackle a stroller again and I am letting him feed himself breakfast from the high chair. Should make for some good video of the mess I know he's going to make. Hopefully, Steve will feel like going down to eat with us and get to see it too. He missed all his progress yesterday but, hopefully today will be a better day for him. Levi slept all night long without medication and is just started to toss and turn, he gets a bottle and goes back to sleep around 6am. He has so far been right on schedule with what the foster mom wrote down for us. His sleeping issue is that he won't let you lay him down at all for hours after he's asleep. We tried about 10 times (literally) before he finally whined until he gave up and stayed there on his back. He has to be touching you or he wakes up everytime. All through the night he will reach his hand or foot one out to see that your still there and no, a pillow doesn't work... tried that too. He decided that if he slept long ways in the bed last night that he could touch Steve with his feet and have me at his head and he's been that way aside from rolling back and forth from back to side all night. He finally stayed down at 11pm. I thought my body would shut down getting to bed so early, that is why I am wide awake this early online. Thanks for all your prayers, posts, and emails. Love you all- tracy (Levi's mom)

Headed to the Embassy appointment today

Hey, it's bright and early here in Guatemala. Well, I don't know how bright yet but, it sure is early. Man I'm not a morning person! I had to get up at 5am!!! I have myself ready and my older kid (just kidding..Steve) getting ready and one still in the bed. I am about to wake him up so, praying that he'll wake up smiling and not crying. He's going to hate this embassy appointment with all those strangers in close quarters and I am sure at least 20 other crying babies. Luckily, we're couple number 7 this morning and shouldn't be there all day. I will post later to let you know how it went and how he is doing today. After I posted last night he actually smiled at my mom. We took him down to their room and just hung out for about 15 minutes to let him at least be around them even though he's not interested yet. He doesn't know that is his key to many toys yet haha! Well, pray for us all today. Nancy and Eric will be there with Isaac too but, not until a little after 8. They are taking a cab to keep from having to leave when we do at 6:45am and wait. I don't blame them for that I am sure I would choose sleep over a taxi ride anyday. Love you all- Tracy (aka mommy)

Update from Guatemala

Hey all- I wanted to post real quick and let you all know that we made it here safe to pick up Levi and he is in his daddy's arms as we speak. He has had a pretty rough afternoon and been scared to death just like when Nancy and I came in January. He didn't want much to do with me at first but, he eventaully had no choice so, he gave in. He is finally warming up to Steve. He was just scared of him at first, which broke Steve's heart but, he was patient enough to just stay back until he was ready. He still won't let my mom and dad hold him yet but, he will. It may take a few days before he's ok with all of us together. We've been taking everything slow and letting him set the pace. We have our US Embassy appointment in the morning and I am sure he will be hating that. It would be nice if he slept through most or all of it. We are being picked up here at our hotel at 6:45am...too early!! Well, just pray for him tonight and pray that a bath and a bottle to follow will get the job done for him to rest tonight. Love to all and thanks for your prayers. Despite the crying and the adjustments we're making right now, the fact he's ours is great! His foster mom and her son today had a really hard time and they need to be remembered in your prayers as well. They both cried and cried. I promised to call her tomorrow and update her on how he did tonight. Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Update on Nancy, Eric and Isaac

Hey, I just wanted to post and let everyone know that I have talked to Nancy since she arrived in Guatemala and got Isaac. She said he's taken well to Eric and the second time I talked to her he was curled up against his daddy taking a bottle going off to sleep. He did cry for the foster mom quite a bit but, seemed to be better after a little while with them. She says he loves food and they used that to their advantage and took him to the hotel restaurant for supper. As I talked to her the first time she said he was shoveling rice in with both hands. He has a head full of hair as she knew he would when she told them do not cut it no matter how long it got. They were able to spend about 2 hours with the foster mom this afternoon as she told them some things she does with him, his routine, what he likes and dislikes, etc.. Nancy seemed to have enjoyed that time getting to know the lady who has cared for her son a little better on a personal level.
Steve, mom and dad have been sleeping since this afternoon and here I sit and have been awake since Nancy called from Atlanta at 9 am this morning. I just cannot get to sleep. I am finally getting sleepy and it's 30 minutes until my alarm goes off for me to get ready to leave for Charlotte. I am hoping I can sleep in the truck on the way and on the flights to Guatemala. I just can't wait to get there and get my boy too. Pray for us as we head out and we'll post when we have him safe with us. We'll try and post everyday to keep everyone here at home up to date on how everyone is adjusting. Thanks in advance for all your prayers. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

She's half way there!

Hey all- Nancy and Eric just called me and they are boarding in Atlanta and are ok. She said she slept a little on the plane but, planned to try again on this longer flight. She sounded really tired but, so excited too. Will keep everyone posted as she calls me. She is half way there, only 4 hours until she arrives in Guatemala. Keep praying for them. Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

She's off~~

Well, I went to the airport to surprise Nancy and Eric and see them off to Atlanta where they will connect onto Guatemala. I was the first one of the day at the airport and arrived at 3:45AM! They came shortly after and didn't even see me sitting there. They got out of her car with their luggage and I yelled across the parking lot and asked if she had room for me in that suitcase she was pulling that I was looking for a way to Guatemala. She was surprised that I was out so late, well early but, since I hadn't been to bed yet... I got to sit with her and chat about the boys until time for them to go through security. I watched them until they were out of site and said a little prayer for them all the way home. She was exhausted already so hoping she gets some sleep on the plane. Pray for them as they travel and I will update as I hear more from her later. She is planning to call me when she can.- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

ON THE COUNTDOWN NOW!!!

Well, we're on the final stretch counting down now until we leave for Guatemala to get our boy!! Nancy is hopefully sleeping her last few hours before she heads to the airport (she is arriving a day ahead of us). She told me bye earlier on the phone but, she doesn't know I'll be at the airport when she and Eric get there this morning to see her off. I wouldn't miss it for the world! I am afriad to go to sleep, afraid I will cut the alarm off and miss it. In just 12 short hours she will have Isaac in her arms forever. This is the moment she has waited for, for over 20 years now.
I ahve so many different emotions right now I can hardly stand it. I am so happy to finally ahve this over with and this long, tough process ending. However, in my moments of joy and happiness I cannot get past having a heavy heart for the foster mom. I cannot even begin to imagine how she is feeling right now. Knowing it is her last night with Isaac and only one more with Levi has to be so hard for her. I know how my heart broke after just 5 days with Levi and there is no comparison in how she must feel. The thoughts of the boys being there together their last night too just kills me knowing how close they are bonded with each other. They don't even know their lives are about to be turned upside down again and changed forever. I have worry too that they will have the same trouble their first night as when Nancy and I went to visit in January. It was miserable for them looking around the room scared to death. It was so hard to see them go through that being so terrified of their surroundings and us. I am just praying that when we get there he remembers me and Isaac remembers Nancy enough to not be so scared this time.
Until I return from seeing Nancy off.... will update later on her flight and how things are going with Isaac as soon as I hear from her. Keep her in your prayers as she travels. With the wind her tonight I am sure that will make for some extra turbulence along the way. I wish I was going as she does but, for some reason it just didn't work out for us that way. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

5 days and 4 hours!!!!

But, who's counting right? We are! It is now 5 days and 4 hours until we get Levi in our arms forever! Nancy's is even better... she will have Isaac in her arms forever in 4 days! She is going a day ahead of us and will hopefully be settled by the time we arrive. I think all of the arrangements are made for the trip except the last minute things we can't do until time to leave. We now have all of our reservations confirmed and set. We will be leaving early, early morning on Thursday, March 6 and returning way up in the morning on Wednesday, March 12. It has been 5 months and 18 days since Steve last held his son so, needless to say he's a little anxious to get there too! We will keep you all updated as we are there and things progress via this blog and our posts. We are taking our laptop so, one of us will do our best to let you know we're there safe and have Levi once we get him. Please pray that all goes well with the trip and that there are no delays on our way. Our appointment to get Levi processed out of the country is Friday, march 7 at 7:15am so, we have no time for delays on the way down there. I am not a morning person at all but, I guess that morning I will be up before the sun is to get myself and Levi ready for the appointment. Having to all be fed, dry and dressed by 6:45am will be my true initiation I think. Makes me sleepy just thinking about it. well, until I know more..... Blessings-Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

New Picture

Hey, wanted to post a picture that Levi's foster mom sent us in email. He is sitting on a toy she bought for Isaac to push and walk behind. He is walking holding onto something. Nancy is praying he doesn't get brave enough to let go in the next 7 days and take his first steps without her there. If he had a clue he could and had thought about it he would have already. We're talking about the same adventurous little boy that is climbing out of a walker. Too funny!! She and Eric are going to have their hands full. As far as them being sick with a bad cold, Isaac is over it and better, Levi is just with a mild cough now so thanks for all your prayers. We're packed and ready to go pretty much except for a few last minute things the day before. Still praying for all the money we need for the trip but, we know and believe that the Lord will make a way. He hasn't brought us this far to not carry us through to the end. Will keep you posted on anything new before we leave.- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

So ready to leave for Guatemala!!!

Well, I am pretty much packed and just waiting watching time drag on until we go get Levi. Since Nancy talked to the foster mom the other night and I learned Levi had been sick again and been the doctor... I can't sleep much at all. I am pretty much exhausted but, when I lay down I can't sleep. My mind is just going in a hundred different directions. I tried to wear down today by packing but, not much good. I did get everything together and all the baby things I'll need at home to be ready for him. It all hit home when I was getting his things together tonight that I still can't believe we're finally just a few days from bringing home our boy! I need to get him home and checked by his pediatrician because he's been sick so much. The flight is set and we're waiting for confirmation on our hotel then we'll have it all planned out I think. Praying this week passes fast and that Levi is feeling better since the antibiotics. Will call and check on him tomorrow. Blessings- Tracy B.

GOING FOR PICK UP!!!

HEY ALL--- HE'S COMING HOME!!! I am just a little excited! Steve and I wanted to let you know that we have our appointment at the US Embassy on March 7th to go pick up Levi. We will be leaving on March 6th and will not be able to return home until March 11th. Because our opponent fell on a Friday we are stuck there over the weekend. Levi's visa to leave the country will not be ready until after 3:30pm on Monday. Therefore, our flight will be on Tuesday morning. We'll be bringing him back this time and not having to walk away leaving him behind.
However, we will be leaving behind what has come to be a part of our existence for nearly a year now. We will be heartbroken for the foster mom as she will be losing both Levi and Isaac at the same time pretty much. And, our thoughts and prayers will be with all the Guatemalan children who never find the same opportunities that Levi and Isaac will have here in the US. Nancy is actually going to be getting Isaac the day before on the 5th. Her Embassy appointment is the same day on the 7th. That is dad's birthday and he and mom are going to Guatemala with us so, what better present than a grandson? I was there this year on my birthday and there was no better preset than that let me tell ya! Anyway, we have our flight booked and are working on the hotel reservations now. Nancy is waiting for confirmation where she booked hers but, as of now unless something changes, we will be on the same flight back (Guatemala to Charlotte). She will be flying back into Tri Cities but, we'll be driving back from Charlotte. At least we will be able to take a picture of Levi and Isaac (unless they are really upset from the flight) of their feet touching US soil for the first time and doing so together... priceless. We've seen many pictures like that other adoptive parents have taken and it is so cute! Please do keep Levi in your prayers but, he was taken to the doctor today and given a shot for "a cold" that he wasn't able to shake?? He and Isaac were sick but, Isaac is over it and Levi can't get over it according to the foster mom when Nancy called her tonight with a translator. Nancy said she didn't sound too bad right now so, hopefully she is ok that her time is getting closer everyday. Bless her heart she told her too she has no prospects for a job right now after she isn't fostering right now. She says nobody will hire her due to her age. Pray for that and for Levi. Also, us as always that we make it through all this. Love and blessings- Tracy (AKA

Come on pink!!

Hey, wanted to post an update that our 2nd DNA results was just delivered by Fedex to the US Embassy a few hours ago. Nancy's was too and a few others from our yahoo adoption forum. We're bound to have our appts at the same time with at least some of them. Anyway, we're now going to be hovering over Steve's laptop awaiting our travel date. Typically, you get your appt for pick up emailed to you the day after your results arrive. However, today is Friday so, they're of course like any other government office not there on Saturdays. AND, Monday is a holiday... President's Day. So, they will not be back in the office until Tuesday. Nancy and I are still hopeful and praying that they have mercy on us and give everyone an appt before they leave today knowing they ahve a 3 day weekend ahead. That is probably nothing but wishful thinking but, stranger things have happened. Will for sure post as soon as I get the travel date and know when to book our flight. Do pray that the funds come through for that because these last fees we sent wiped up out. We have been checking on flights since the DNA was done to see what kind of prices are out there right now and they literally doubled since the first of the week. I am not sure if that is because of Spring Break coming up or what but, we're hoping and praying to get some good rates when we book. God didn't bring us this far through all of this for us not to have the money to go get him that is for sure. Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

2nd DNA done!!

Hey, just wanted to let you know that we got the call yesterday that Levi (and Isaac's) 2nd DNA has been completed and the results sent out headed back to Guatemala by Fedex. They are scheduled to arrive by 6pm today. After the US Embassy gets it logged back in they will issue our appt for pick up. We're finally almost done! This will be the last step of this long difficult process. Steve and I are just so ready to go get Levi and bring him home. My mom and dad are still planning to go with us for pickup (if we can swing 4 plane tickets now, for some reason they shot up yesterday to double what we were looking at). They just want to be able to have the experience of seeing Guatemala and knowing about where he's from. Of course, they can't wait so, if that get them to see him sooner they are all about that part too.
Issac and Levi will be most likely leaving the foster mom at the same time unless for some reason our appt times get seperated at the Embassy. But, even so they should be back to back if nothing else. We've just prayed that if it's God's will for us to leave together with them , then let it be. Nancy and I are about to go crazy with this waiting part. Knowing they have been legally ours for a few weeks makes it a little harder with the waiting! We've both been "nesting" (so they say that is what it is we're doing) and cleaning their rooms, washing their clothes, and just finishing those last minute thigs before we don't have the time to spare for such. Eric got to hear Isaac saying dada on the phone last week so, he is just beside himself too (and of course rubbing it in a little to Nancy haha). Levi is getting in the walker better now and going backwards only so far... too funny! Will keep you all posted on when we're traveling. Until then, keep us in your prayers and keep the foster mom in mind too. She is sad but, knows this has to be. She says she is so thankful to know they are both going to keep in touch and be so close and that we love them so much. She is thankful they will have opportunities in life through this adoption. Will keep you posted. Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Long overdue update...

Hey, sorry for the delay on posting any updates. I am happy to post that we are still moving ahead (pretty quickly now) and we'll be bringing Levi home soon!! Nancy called the foster mom last night and she seems to be coping better than when I spoke with her last Sunday evening, still very sad but, sounded better. Both boys have their Guatemalan passports and have had the second DNA sample taken as of Thursday. We can assume that the specimen was sent already to Burlington, NC where Labcorp will process the results. They only have to compare it to the 1st test done at the beginning of our process to confirm he is the same child leaving the country, just an added step from the US to ensure he's legal. When I rec'd the authorization request for me to sign the other day it was great to see his name as "Bradley" now and us listed as his parents. We're still amazed and so excited that this will all be over soon and he'll be home.
Yesterday, Nancy adn I took a few hours to unwind and shop for the boys a little. We had a good time and enjoyed just getting some down time. Continue to pray we hear this coming week that the results are back to the Embassy and we get our travel date. Once we get that date, we'll be hard to tolerate until we actually leave, we'll be so excited we'll drive everyone around us nuts! As of right now, they are together again in the process and as of right now we'll be in Guatemala at the same time. Will keep you posted with any news. I will try and do better this week momma Nancy about posting (she's been about to get me for being so behind haha). - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy!!!)

Special thanks!

Hey, today I thought I would post a little different type of update today. Today, I just want to reflect back and give thanks. First, of course, I would not post being thankful without saying we will never be able to thank the Lord enough for all the blessings He has given us during this adoption journey. He has blessed us over and over in this whole process and for that we owe Him everything. Several years ago when we had failed fertility treatments and thought life just wasn't fair little did we know God had a plan already in place to have Levi mkae our family complete. Looking back at all the things He borught us thorugh to get us to this point has been simply amazibg as well. Steve's physical condition was full of one problem after another and the Lord brought him through it all to come out healthier than he's been in years and actually feeling able to care for Levi full time while I work. Of course, month after month in the hospital we coldn't see the bigger picture then either.
Although our families have all supported us through this journey, without Nancy I would have lost my mind through all of this. She has been there for me bascially from day 1 and picked me up when I needed picking up. We've laughed togethr, cried together, prayed for one another (a lot!). We've known the same hurts over and over from not being able to have children on our own to going through the adoption process together. Nobody knows unless you've been there what it feels like to have to walk away leaving part of your heart in Guatemala after those visit trips and we even got to share that part. Just some more ways the Lord has blessed us on this journey. We have shared so much in this process and it is very important to us both to have Levi and Isaac remain close as they grow up and know where they come from. You have to keep in mind they act and think they are brothers I am sure. They have been together since they were 1 day old and only been apart when each of us visited and when Levi was in the hospital. We knew they were close but, didn't get the real impact of it all until we saw them together on our trip and boy was it something to see... priceless! Levi and Isaac both are so loved already! Levi has even gained a mamaw Kay along the way! Kay is Nancy's mom, Isaac's mamaw, and like my mom she is a prayer warrior! We're blessed to ahve come to know her along the way too, she is the sweetest lady!
Anyway, just wanted to thank the Lord today for ALL the blesssings He's sent our way through this process. Of course, I could never thank everyone of you personally for all the prayers, gifts and emails that have brought me this far but, please know we are so appreciative for it all. My own parents have done more than I could repay them for but, they know from the bottom of my heart how much it has meant to Steve and I both. Basically, they made all this possible with the Lord's blessings on them too this past year. Although this sounds like some farwell post, it is NOT. I am not done by a long shot just reflecting today that is all. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Birth Certificate Update

Hey, just wanted to post that my attorney met with the mayor or his representative yesterday about getting Levi's birth certificate. He was told to come back in 5 business days and he'd let him have it. Hoping and praying he walks out with it next Monday. After that happens, they will take our file and go to the US Embassy and request approval slip for "orange", which is his 2nd DNA test. He will be taken by the foster mom into the lab for his mouth to be swabbed for this test. It is sent to Burlington, NC for the results just like the first one he and his birth mom had done. It takes about 7-10 days for the results to get back to the US Embassy from here. Once they are back there the Embassy will send Steve an email with our appointment and we'll know a date when we are to go pick him up. We really are close once they get the birth certificate in hand but, yet we seem so far away too. I would have to say I am a little anxious and nervous about the rest of the process but, I don't know why. I guess it's first time mom/parent syndrome I don't know. Because I know from here until we travel is simply paperwork. He's defiantly the same baby so, no worries with DNA or anything so, I don't know. I am so ready for this all to be over and have him home I know that. We're going this weekend car seat shopping so, that will be exciting to keep us busy until next week. Please pray that the attorney walks out with both mine and Nancy's birth certificates on Monday!! Wouldn't it be awesome if we got our pick appt (the Embassy appt) the same day? Even close where we could bring them home together? We were talking about that, we think they'd do so much better being together on the plane than alone. Praying if that is God's will then it'll be. Thanks in advance as always for your support and prayers.- Tracy (officially Levi's mommy)

GOOD NEWS- WE'RE OFFICIAL!

Hey, just wanted to post so really good news for a change! We are officially Levi's parents as of yesterday! His birth mom has been in and signed off for the final time. Our attorney reported to our agency yesterday that she submitted our file for the dreaded wait to get the new birth certificate from the town where he was born.
Sad thing is, the mayor here is supposedly corrupt and doesn't like adoptions, Americans,etc.. He has been holding the birth certificates for several weeks (8-9 weeks and as many as 12 weeks) and not issuing them without the adoptive parents flying to Guatemala to get it in person. Many posters on a forum Nancy and I belong to say that he holds out for bribes to release it any sooner. Nancy has been waiting 3 weeks as of yesterday to get Isaac's new bc and is very frustrated with the whole waiting game to get it issued. The birth certificate has to be issued before they can submit for the 2nd DNA and then for your Embassy appt to go get them. It is simply ridiculous that we pay out A LOT of money to the attorney for this to be over as quick as possible and to get them home as infants not as toddlers and then your hung up in the system from one man holding so much power over a bc... one piece of paper.
The agency said that basically now after mine was submitted since then their firm I assume has had 2 more submitted there needing bc's. The total being 4 now, she said that would make them "stay on top of it more and work harder to get them all out than they were." That is part of Nancy's frustration I am sure. She was the first one submitted and they would have already been "working hard" to get hers regardless if they have 4 waiting now! She and Eric are planning to go to Guatemala and get it themselves if possible. They are at least going to try. She has some contacts there who plan to go with them to translate and hopefully walk away with it in hand. Please pray for their safety, both our bc issues and continue to pray for Levi and Isaac that they will be out of this mess and home soon where they belong! Thanks as always for your prayers and support. They just turned 9 months old, we've pulled our time I think and it's time for this to be over and start our families. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

WE ARE OUT OF PGN!!! PRAISE THE LORD!!!

We are finally out of PGN!!! I called on Monday to check on the status of our case and spoke with Laura, the English speaking girl we get for status checks and she said we had been approved that I needed to call my agency. I called them and they said they would check with the attorney and get back with me to confirm if we were indeed out or not. I didn't hear back from them so, I assumed our file wasn't picked up yet. The social worker from our agency called me yesterday at work to confirm the attorney did pick up my file on Monday and she had it in hand with my approval. We were out as of Friday, January 18th. The social worker from the agency said the attorney had called the birth mom to come in and do her final sign off. after she does it's official... Levi is our son legally. Pleas pray that she gets in there and gets signed off so the attorney can get us registered with the civil registry where we get the birth certificate from and then we wait for that. Here is where the mayor is holding the new birth certificates because apparently he doesn't like Americans or adoptions or something because he's causing unnecessary delays with releasing them. Nancy has been researching this and talked to several couples who have waited and waited and are having to actually fly to Guatemala and meet with him just to get it released. He's held some up to like 8-12 weeks. We won't wait that long before we go get ours but, we pray that it doesn't have to come to that. We'll make it our prayer that he will just release them and let us come get ours boys soon. Nancy and Eric will have been waiting for Isaac's new bc 3 weeks this coming Friday and she will be talking to our agency to see what their game plan is from there about getting it for them. She is not willing to wait much longer though because she can try and get it herself a lot sooner. It's crazy to waste even more time waiting and waiting if you truly can walk in, wait for an appt with the mayor and walk out with it. Rumor has it he likes bribes and he's out to get some money from this but, he can expect no money from us for it we have to stay legal here and need no trouble with the case at this point. We've come too far to mess things up now. I don't know what they could do if anything since he's legally already your son at that point but, basically I guess I'll see what comes about with Nancy's and go from there since she is 3 weeks ahead of us on this issue.
Once they get the birth certificate they can submit you for orange, which is the authorization for the second required DNA test. They will just take him in and swab his mouth I think. It just has to match the first one he had done with his birth mom and we aren't worried about him being the same baby we took as our referral, etc.. for those of us who get monthly pictures and updates and have been to visit this is a useless but required step by the US to ensure they are issuing a visa for the same baby that the case started with. Luckily, this has been a pretty steady part of the process. It goes to Labcorp from Burlington, NC so we'll be able to track that somewhat too and know when the results make it back to the US Embassy. Once they get the results we'll wait for an appointment... which is your pink slip to travel. The appointment or "pink" is for you to go in and pay for his visa so he can leave the country. Adoptive parents getting travel dates right now are running like the first few weeks of February. I know we're ready to have this behind us and get him home and start our family. We've waited as long as it takes to have a baby and it shouldn't take longer than that to get this done.
All in all we praise the Lord for this wonderful news and know that I will be posting when and if I hear when the birth mom comes and signs off. The attorney feels like this isn't a big step (the birth mom's signing) so, generally they don't call our agency when this takes place unless they just happen to think to mention it's been done according to the agency social worker. I on the other hand think it's major since that is what makes everything final and him legally our son. Of course, part of our hearts have been in Guatemala since we first saw his pictures and we accepted the referral and especially after meeting him for the first time back in September. In our eyes he's been our son since May but, legally speaking. Praying for a speedy sign off and for the birth mom to have peace and closure with the decision she has made to allow us to become Levi's parents. We'll always take that responsibility very serious and be proud to be his mommy and daddy. We could never thank her enough for the ultimate sacrifice she made to allow him to have a better life full of opportunities. Once she is done with her part with the sign off, I pray that the attorney would allow me to write her a letter and have it translated. I don't know if it'll ever even make it to her or not but, I feel like I owe it to her to at least try to let her know how blessed we are that Levi will make our family complete. Continue to pray that these last few steps are behind us quickly so we can get our boy home!! Thanks for all your prayers and support so far. We know without God none of this would have been possible! Will keep you posted with updates as I know more. Love and Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

No news today just missing my boy!

I haven't heard a thing new about our case but, still waiting to hear something from the agency that we're out of PGN. I am hoping and praying this is our week. Someone on the yahoo forum got out from a November 21st resubmit. We're a November 23rd resubmit so hopefully they are at least working on cases right around the same date. Generally your in PGN for about 8 weeks sometimes a little longer (can be less but, that is rare). Most cases when you go in on like 23rd of November he usually signs close to the 23rd of January. Please keep us in your prayers this week especially that we get out of PGN with no more kickouts. We're getting to the point where we can hardly stand the waiting anymore. It is driving us crazy we just want him home so bad. I am really missing him today and so is Steve. If he'd just spent a few days with him too then I think he would really be crazy from the waiting and from missing him. It was so hard on Steve to see him on the webcam and not be with him it liked to have killed him. Anyway, hopefully soon we'll be able to both be with him and welcome him to his new home with his new family. Until then we have to wait it out and pray hard. Thanks in advance for your support and prayers. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Still w/2nd reviewer~PGN

Just wanted to post that we're still with the 2nd reviewer as of today when I called PGN. The good thing is there is rumor that Laura at PGN, the girl who we talk to that speaks English, her computer is a little behind with your actual case status. People on the web forum we're on are saying that she seems to be like 7 days behind with her information according to when some of their agencies are calling them with their outs. One can only hope that we're actually on Barrios' desk (he is like our attorney general who does the final sign off). Nancy never heard that she was on his desk but, called Dec 26th to learn she was with the 2nd reviewer and she got the call from our agency she was out 8 days later. Which would make the information she is about a week behind seem like more of a possibility. Who knows?? We saw a case that was resubmitted on 11/21 who got out today so, we're praying we're right behind them with a 11/23 resubmit date into PGN after our kickout. We are just so ready to get PGN behind us so they can call the birth mom to come sign for the final time. Once we know he is officially ours then we'll sit a little more comfortable. We'll still have the birth certificate issue in front of us to face but, we are ready to get to that step which would be one step closest to having him home. Just keep praying we're out soon. Will keep everyone posted here if we get any updates. I have posted some new pictures as I guess you would see before reading this post. He's just the sweetest thing! - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Leaving our babies in Guatemala~

Well, Nancy and I have arrived in Daytona Beach, Fl after our wonderful visit with the boys in Guatemala. Despite a really rough first night, the rest of the trip turned out to be abosultey wonderful! We had to however, walk away and leave them behind once again. It just broke our hearts to hand them back over to the foster mom and leave there without them again. I am just heartbroken and miss him so much already. Bless his heart, he was so confused when he saw the foster mother back there in the lobby to pick him up. He would look at her and then look at me, he didn't know what to think about it. What made it even worse was when I handed him back to her he started to cry and reach for me to take him back. Of course I did and that broke my heart even more to think he wanted me back. He's very attached to her so after just 3 days I was totally shocked to see him do that. Steve was right... he could tell just how much I love him and it did my heart good to know he could really feel that love in such a short time being with me. Hopefully, he'll remember me when I go back and we're praying it's soon. I couldn't get through to PGN before we left so, I didn't get an update on our case before we left. I'll try again today and hoping to hear some good news. Boy, could I use some right now. We have had the worst night last night getting to Daytona. First of all, we get from Atlanta to Orlando and find that 2 of our bags didn't make it there with us. After we stood forever in baggage to make the claim, we headed to get our rental car. Well, Budget wouldn't let us rent on a prepaid credit card. I had confirmed my reservation 3 times and they instructed me specifically what to do. The guy didn't care at all about the fact that we were stranded again in Orlando International. Nancy refused to spend another night in that airport floor sleeping! We finally found another car rental place (local no name place) who didn't even ask for anything except $100 deposit and handed us the keys. We were grateful for them to just make it easy to send us on our way. We rented a GPS (@Steve's request) to get us there the easiest way from Orlando to Daytona. Well, "Susie" which is what we named her right off, must have been as tired as we were because she wasn't working for us. She has us in some neighborhood in Orlando (a good neighborhood luckily), telling us to turn where there wasn't roads, stay in right lane when it was a 2 lane, exit when there wasn't an exit (it was a 2 lane side road not an interstate to even have an exit). Nancy finally jerked her right off the windshield and started with her own directions. She is familiar with the area but, we had to get back to an interstate she knew. Basically, we drove around in Orlando because it was 2am or after when we made it to our room in Daytona. We kept waiting to eat and saying we were going to stop and by 2am we realized we hadn't eaten since breakfast in Guatemala. We ended up having a donut from the 7-11 store. This morning has unfortunately not started off well either. We have to return the rental car to a different airport than we fly out of. We've had trouble finding transportation that isn't $125 per person one way. We finally found a taxi to get us back to the airport we're flying from so, we'll see. Nancy said she thought this trouble was God's way of keeping our minds off leaving the boys. If it was well, it worked. We've not had time to dwell but, it's still there and we're still heartbroken. Must be the motherly instinct because every so often when I look at the clock, I'll think now it's time for his bottle, he should be taking his nap now, or what he should be doing at that time of day. Man, I just miss him so bad I can't stand it. I just want him home & for all this to be over. Please keep us in your prayers that our court process is over soon. I'll post pics from home by tomorrow. Thanks in advance for all your prayers & support. Love and blessings-Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Pray as I have to leave behind my son... AGAIN!

Hey all, I couldn't sleep so I thought I would post on the blog. I am sick from something. Hoping it's just my nerves and not something I have eaten here in Guatemala. I am having a hard time dealing with things tonight (well, this morning now). Poor Steve, bless his heart he's the only one who will talk to me about it in the middle of the night. He had his laptop set up on the bed so he'd hear me send him a message if I couldn't sleep. That meant a lot because it makes me feel some better to talk to him because he knows first hand what we're facing having to leave in just a few short hours. My heart is just breaking to have to walk away from Levi again. It's so hard not knowing when you'll see him again and what you'll miss while your gone this time. He on the other hand will be going back to all he knows, his foster family. He probably won't remember me when we return to get him and we'll have to watch him hurt over missing his foster mom again. Hoping and praying for some good news when I call PGN when they open. I am planning to call before we leave Guatemala just to know where we are there. Pray for us as we head out tomorrow around 1:49pm (I think that is right) Guatemala time. We have a short layover in Atlanta before we are back in Florida for the night. We couldn't get a connecting flight so we're staying over night in Daytona to unwind and regroup before we fly home on Tuesday afternoon. Pray for me as I leave Levi, it'll just kill me I know. Love and Blessings from Guatemala.- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Update from Guatemala

Hey, sorry I didn't get to post like I said I'd try and do but, things haven't gone entirely as planned the whole trip to allow me time to post anything. Our flight was a little early getting to Orlando so we ended up spending the night even longer than we had planned. We slept where ever we didn't get run off and waited to catch the next flight. When we arrived in Guatemala, the foster mom was already waiting for us at the hotel with Levi and Isaac. They were very upset all night Friday night and I mean they screamed all night long. Isaac went to bed like at 2 something in the morning and Levi at 4:30am! When they weren't asleep they were pitiful looking for the foster mom and crying, well screaming. Things got so bad Friday night we had decided we weren't putting them through that anymore and we were calling for the foster mom to come back and get them. It wold have been different if we were here for pick up trips and knew we could ride it out til things improved but, we were trying to settle them with 2 strangers for just a few days to have to go back to her and do this again later. They were so pitiful we were heartbroken for them both. Luckily, we have praying parents and husbands and it got us through ti. We know that is all that did. They settled and went to sleep and when they woke up things weren't great but, better. By today, they're both great and it's like they've always been with us. Of course, this is our last night and that is starting to set in for me. Nancy said that she thought knowing she was out of PGN would make it easier to leave but, she was wrong. She is feeling just like she did before having to leave her last 2 trips, it stinks!! Well, just pray for us as we have to leave. I know it'll be harder than the last time I know. He's just I know we've already missed so many things with him it just kills me to think about it. I do miss Steve so much but, the time has flown by for me a whole lot quicker I am sure than for him. He looks so sad and so tired when we talk by webcam. I don't think he's getting much rest but, he wouldn't tell me if he wasn't. Better go get some things packed before Levi is up from his nap. I just can't get over what a good day it's been with him. Make it even harder I think to leave, who knows, it's bad either way. Praying when I call PGN either tomorrow or Tuesday I am out or told by Laura to call back a certain day! If I were out and the birth mom signs I will feel a while lot better having to wait to come back. Love and Blessings from Guatemala- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Heading to Guatemala~Pray for us as we travel

Just wanted to post that later tonight we'll be headed to the airport for our trip to Guatemala to see Levi and Isaac. Nancy and I are flying out of Tri Cities to Orlando, Atlanta, then to Guatemala. We'll arrive there in Guatemala City Friday at 12:39pm Guatemala time. They are one hour behind us (EST). The foster mother will be bringing the boys to meet us at our hotel around 1:30pm. We have to make every minute count because we only have a few days with them but, we'll try and post on our blogs if we have the chance. If not, his daddy can post some updates to let everyone at home know we're ok. Please pray for us that our boys will be at peace with us, knowing we love them and not miss the family they have known for so long too bad while they're with us, for our safety as we travel to and from the airport but, mainly while we have the boys out taking them to the pediatrician with the adoption attorney's escort. It is the weekend that all the "extra people" start coming in for the Presidential Inauguration on Monday, the day we leave. I can imagine things will be a little chaotic (traffic, security, all the extra people attending, etc..) Steve and I both are dreading being apart after all these years of never being apart in 15 yrs. It has really set in now fr both of us and I can't and won't even try to explain how bad this part of the whole trip is for us both. Call it crazy if you want but, we're just closer than the average couple and we spend every minute together most of the time and don't mind it a bit so far. I'll miss him like crazy! I'll be connecting with him by webcam and he'll be able to see his son the next best way. He's thought this is what I needed to do since the beginning was to go see Levi and see for myself that he's ok and bond with him as much as I can while I am there. Just pray for us all. Will keep you posted. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Nancy is officially Isaac's mom today!!

Hey, just wanted to post and let you all know that I just rec'd a call from Nancy that she is officially Isaac's mom today. She rec'd the call that Isaac's birth mother had come in to sign off the final time and the attorney was hand carrying her documents to the mayor of Chinautla today also. She is so relived to have this part behind her and know that he is officially her son! How exciting for her family! There is nothing now that can keep her from getting him and she now calls the shots where he's concerned. The attorney has assured her she will push all that she needs to for the new birth certificate and get it asap. She can then proceed with the loose end things that have to be done for him to leave the country. The big thing from here is the birth certificate to be able to obtain his visa. Keep them in your prayers and us too as we await these same calls that we're out of PGN. We technically have a few more weeks to go (Friday will be 7 weeks of expected 8 as I posted before) if we run the average 8 week stay and receive no more kickouts. Thanks for all of my family and friends who have lifted Nancy and Isaac up in prayer for their case. Prayer does change things and he'll be home soon!! I couldn't be happier for her and Eric, today is their day to celebrate!!- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Just 3 days, 15 hrs and 19 minutes... but, who is counting?

Well, our trip is just right around the corner and I cannot believe how fast it's passed since we made the reservations. Nancy is so excited and anxious she is wearing Isaac's clothes out packing and repacking~ha ha! I have been pretty much packed for over a week since summer clothes are all we're taking, well besides all the toys and baby stuff!! We'll think about you all that are wearing your coats and sweaters while we're soaking up the sun with our babies by the pool in 75 degree weather and shorts (just had to rub that part in a little while I am at it). No, really pray for me that I don't need to be heavily medicated to walk away from Steve Thursday night to get on that plane and leave him behind. I know some of you are making fun of me right now but, for those of you who know us well, know that this is BIG for us both and very hard! He says I need this and so does Levi, which I think is so sweet that he feels that way. Pray that Levi will be OK with me and not cry the whole time, same with Isaac with Nancy. I know he probably thinks the foster mom is his mommy but, I at least want him to feel loved by me while I am there, we can work on the mommy change over later. My time is short with him but, IF he naps or I have a free minute, I will try and post updates on how things are going from Guatemala. Thanks in advance for all your prayers and support. Blessings- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

Nancy is OUT of PGN!!!!! One step closer to Isaac!

Hey, just wanted to post some good news! Nancy got the call that she is OUT of PGN!! She found out this afternoon. She is just more than happy and praising the Lord today! She truly does give Him all the glory for this and knows without Him she wouldn't be this far. We both have a lot to be thankful for. Some of the adoptive parents weren't far enough along to have been grandfathered in under the old law as we were. I am sure when she gets to Guatemala and holds him in her arms this time she'll be looking at him in a whole new way. Before she called him her son and hoped and prayed he soon would be but, now she can say "this is MY son" and know it's finally real. Steve and I am so happy for her. I know she will continue to pray for Levi and hopefully we're soon to follow. It is good to know that although PGN has posted signs at the window where cases are brought by attorneys to submit, they are taking no more new cases at this time until the new law details are settled and established, the cases that are still there are still being reviewed and moving. Also, thanks to Nancy being persistent with our agency, the attorney over our cases in Guatemala is going to be talking to us about the birth certificate issues I mentioned in my previous post and what she has in place to do about the delays. As always, please just pray we're out too soon and that things continue to move to have them both home soon. As you pray today too, stop just a moment and say an extra prayer for all the children of Guatemala who won't have the opportunities Levi and Isaac will have because they'll be caught up in a corrupt government that has system set up to care for them but, want to stop/delay adoptions. Also, for our boys' foster mom, she will be without a job once Levi and Isaac come home. She has 2 children of her own and the small amount she gets for fostering them is her only source of income until when and if they ever have foster homes again. As of right now, unless things change , that is part of the new laws, no more private foster care. She is a fine lady and deserves so much more. Thanks in advance for all your prayers and support. Congrats again Nancy and Eric, praying your sweet boy is home with you all soon. - Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)

The latest news from Guatemala

Well, not much to post about our case specifically other than we called PGN and we're still with the 2nd reviewer. If we make it until this Friday, we'll be in 6 weeks of the average 8 week stay in PGN. However, with the holidays (we assume) Nancy should have been out last Wednesday. She hasn't called yet this week so, she doesn't know where her file is at to date. Pray we both hear something soon. I feel like that is all I ever post but, it's all we have is prayer and just hoping this is all over soon. We're a little over 8 days away from seeing our boys and the stress is just building for me. I hate, hate, hate leaving Steve here!!! It's starting to set in but, he keeps telling me he'll be fine. I know he is a big boy and can take care of himself but, it won't keep me from worrying. It would help if I didn't have to add to it all that his laptop crashed and is down completely until it can be serviced. We have to figure out an alternative plan because that is the only way we have for him to see Levi on his live webcam. We had already worked the bugs out and had it installed and working good until it crashed the other night...not good! HP is sending for it this week but, it won't make it back before we leave next Thursday night. Nancy and I have arrangements with the attorney's facilitator to pick us up on Saturday morning in at our hotel and take both boys to the pediatrician they see monthly (until they are out of PGN then they start seeing the US Embassy panel of doctors). We are meeting him at the request of our agency since both boys have been sick pretty often for the past few months. Boy, will that be an early morning and our initiation I guess. We have to have both babies up, awake, bathed, dressed, ourselves dressed and ready to be downstairs to meet her to take us there by 8:20am!! That is am!! Man do I hope they sleep good and not stay up all night since it's their first night with us Friday night. If we're up all night they'll be really excited to see the doctor I am sure. The newest thing for us to worry about is the town where Levi and Isaac were both born has a corrupt mayor. He's against adoptions and stalls making the new birth certificate. The babies have to have the new bc before they can have their Embassy appt for their Visa to exit the country. They have to have that step done before they can have their 2nd DNA test done, etc.. Basically, you can't move until the new bc is obtained. He has been stalling the new issued bc for some time now (so we've learned from our own research this week about it) and the average wait has been anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks in addition to the 6 or so the agency/attorney takes to have him ready to leave Guatemala. We're looking at being closer to his first birthday. It doesn't seem at all fair and we're just hoping and praying we can also get with the attorney while on our trip and see if she has a plan in place for this situation before we are faced with it. We'll see. Praying something or someone can make him speed up. What makes tit so bad is that they are our legal children after PGN and the final birth mother sign off. But, without the new bc listing us as his parents and giving him our last name, he can't get a Visa meaning he can't leave the country without it. It's always one hurdle after another. Praying for some answers soon to all this mess. Will keep you posted.- Tracy (aka Levi's mommy)