Christmas 2009 . . . A year in Review!

Hello, Dear Family & Friends . . .

This year has definitely been a unique year, full of “life-changing” events! But, some years just seem to stand out compared to all the rest. As we close 2009 and look forward to 2010, time is moving way to fast . . . and then, in other ways . . . the days are never-ending! However, through it all, I would like to “dig in my heels” with Father Time and slow down one particular part . . . my Nicky’s zealous push through Life. :)

My sweet Nicholas just turned 7 years old. Yes, can you believe it? He is all about “Mommy, I think . . . !” and “Well, you know, Mommy . . .!” He definitely is a wealth of information these days! I listen attentively with each story that he tells of school and friends, all through the eyes of a sweet seven-year-old. If I could just keep the camera on him - 24/7 . . . ! The major event of his year was a move to a new school in August. Evangelistic Temple School (ETS), a private, Christian school located a couple minutes from our home. The move to 1st grade and “real” school has been so eventful. Now . . . there is Homework!!! Most weekday evenings are spent working on math, reading, spelling, memory verses, etc. As the parent of a 1st grader, I have quickly learned that when your little one has homework, Mama has homework too! :) Nicholas continues to love all his sports, with another sport added to his list this past summer, June/July - - Baseball. Nicky absolutely loved it! He also continues to play soccer and played in a fall season, September/October. He would like nothing more than to play basketball, football, hockey, etc. – You name it! He loves it all and is very intense and serious about the game-of-the-moment. I’m a “side-lines” Mom with the ready cheer and I love watching his eagerness to master each new sport. Throughout the summer, many a pretend, major league baseball game was played in the back yard (both Mama & Uppa D designated players). In an attempt to help balance my little boy’s life, Nicholas also started piano lessons this year in September. A prerequisite for his future move to playing the drums (we will see in a year if the drums are still the desired instrument!). But, I’m a firm believer that music is a good balance for a child’s life, so piano lessons it is . . . to learn his notes . . . for at least a year. I’m amazed at his progress in just 3-4 months. It is such a joy for me to play with my little guy (I have brushed off my piano skills too!). An added bonus! I love that we have another wonderful activity to share together.

Mommy still continues her work with Helmerich & Payne, managing human resources information systems for payroll, compensation & employee health/retirement benefits. After almost 12 years, what can I say? - It just seems to be a good fit! :) After last year’s transition of new responsibilities, I feel I’m starting to find my “groove”, so to speak. I work with a wonderful team. The challenges of new projects and an always moving schedule, definitely keep me on my toes. These days, Time Management is my “claim to fame” with the constant play date, birthday party or just fun activity to schedule around work, school and home. As always, I love to write about my precious family, single parenthood and my international adoption journey. It gives me another path for creative expression! If you have an interest, follow along with our forever family at http://www.nrbfamily.blogspot.com/.

An adoption update . . . the adoption journey to Pakistan in September/October to adopt my 2nd child ended in a heartbreaking experience . . . After 4 weeks in Pakistan, I was not able to bring precious, 3-month-old Marina home due to document complications. Our beautiful Marina Grace . . . our precious Sweet Pea . . . our beloved “Gracy Girl” is now currently living in a Pakistani orphanage awaiting a final decision by the Pakistan and US authorities. We anxiously wait and are hopeful for a positive, final decision by mid January. We are asking for your continued prayers . . . Our continued hope and prayer is throughout the decision making process and all the political positioning, one aspect of the decision will shine through bright and clear . . . “the Best Interests of the Child”. In the last few moments I held my daughter, I prayed a Mother’s Blessing upon her . . . asking for God’s grace to surround her and His loving arms to hold her . . . protected . . . until we meet again. The waiting is very difficult, but there is no doubt in my mind, God holds our Gracy in the palm of His hand, protected and His timing is perfect. I will definitely keep everyone updated; if/when we finally are able to bring our baby girl home.

And of course, our sweet puppy dog, Katy Sue!, who is 8 years old, soon to be 9 in April. She lost one of her best “buddies” this year. My cousin, Dalend’s weimaraner, Tessa, passed away from cancer in November. We miss Tess! And as always, I’m still Katy’s best human buddy and there will always be a special, unique relationship between the two of us. After all, she is my 1st born!

A few other highlights added to our year . . . In June we traveled to Nebraska and Kansas to celebrate the wedding of my niece, Meghann Baney to Drew Pursley. Nicholas was a very, very handsome ring bearer. In September, Grandma came to spend a wonderful month of G’ma time with Nicholas while Mama and Uppa D traveled to Pakistan. Grandma and Nicholas definitely have a great bond and special love after their time together! In November, Mama’s birthday . . . December, Nicky’s birthday. Another highlight in December was Nicky’s 1st piano recital, such a proud moment for Mama to hear Nicholas play his recital piece, “Wishing Well”, all 2 lines of music . . . a proud milestone moment for my little guy!

And finally, we come to the end of 2009 - Yes . . . a bit “bruised” by life, but perspective brings wisdom. We treasure all of our wonderful Blessings . . . health, accomplishment, growth, purpose, fellowship, faith, childhood, family, laughter and love. And, yes, moments of sadness, challenges, disappointment and pain, but opportunities for blessings as well.

Our Heavenly Father gives us a strong, steady spirit to move forward through it all.

“Count it ALL Joy . . . “ (James 1).

Have a blessed Holiday Season.

With love to all our family & friends,

Nancy & Nicky
(Katy)