Humphrey Happenings

Christmas Pics - Part One

2012-01-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

Finally! A blog update after a long hiatus. I won't offer excuses - just lots of pictures. We had 5 family Christmas celebrations and enjoyed spending time with many members of our families.

Brenna's new wagon (good thing it has seat belts!)

Family Christmas picture

On Christmas Eve, we went to my parents' for the traditional Taco Dinner with Max's secret recipe ice cream balls for dessert and a pinata for the kids

Ian getting a turn to whack the snowman

Jeremy severed the head from the body! Go Jeremy!

Mimi and Pa with the boys

Ready to open gifts on Christmas afternoon

Jeremy was so good to help Ian open his gifts

Boilermaker foam hat (Thanks Uncle John and Aunt Teena!)

Potentially the best gift ever.......cowboy boots for Lucas! He was beside himself!

"Look Mom! Do I look like a real cowboy now?"

We got the boys a wii and they love it!
Tom's parents were also able to come and share a couple days with us. However, I somehow managed to miss getting a picture of them. We had a great time and so appreciate them coming!!!

Grammy and Brenna

Two Beautiful Girls

Lucas found a box that fit him

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Pics - Part Two

2012-01-10T14:07:00.000-08:00

On Dec. 29, we headed south toward Memphis but stopped in Nashville for the night and had yet another Christmas celebration with my brother and his kids and our parents. So fun to be together as it's a rare thing these days.

Lucas and cousin Elizabeth

Ian LOVED Uncle Brian's new bongo drum!

As a typical kid, Brenna loves boxes as much or more than what comes in them.

Ian, opening his new air hockey game from Uncle Brian.

We headed to Memphis on Friday morning and got there in plenty of time for dinner and yes......more Christmas celebrations!

Olivia, presiding over the gift opening

Beautiful girl!

Not sure who enjoyed Olivia's new kitchen more - Lucas or Ian!

Drew and Jeremy

Feeding M & M's to Pops

It was so warm and sunny in Memphis, that we enjoyed going to the park more than once.

We took the Wii with us.....playing Mario Kart

The older kids took the younger boys to a movie as their Christmas gift and these parents/grandparents were as thrilled as the kids (possibly more!) We got to stay home with the little girls and play! :-)))

Playing peek a boo

Not sure what they were looking at

LOVE THEM!!!!

Drew - in Olivia's chair. Pretty funny.

At the playground again

4/5 Humphrey men

The other Humphrey man being tackled

Kiss for Mommy

Chatting with Pops

Watching the crazy boys wrestle from a safe place

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year y'all from Memphis!

Happy Birthday!!!

2011-12-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my bestest friend and the one who is keeping me sane and grounded these days. Love you tons!!!!

Children from Hard Places

2011-12-11T18:55:00.001-08:00

Our local newspaper, the Journal and Courier did a story today on family court in our county. http://www.jconline.com/article/20111211/COLUMNISTS30/112110316/Inside-family-court-Drama-tears-sadly-typical-day?odyssey=mod|mostview Previous to this article, I thought I knew what goes on in family court. After all, there are 2 children sleeping in our bedrooms that are a product of what goes on there and I continue to be amazed at the depth of the damage done to them. Still, I am stunned. And sad. And sick. And mad. Really, really mad! Now, I could blast the parents, sometimes generations of parents, who have used and abused their own children. But, I refuse to do that because I know from a former job that we have no idea what is behind it all. I can't change them or their circumstances. What I do know is that there are many children in our country - in our state (11,257!!)- in our county and yes, in our towns that no one wants because they come from these very hard places that this article refers to. They are wounded and broken and messed up. What hope do they have? None.....except in Jesus Christ. And who is going to tell them about the love of a heavenly Father when no one even wants them? Anyone who claims the name of Christ should be praying about how they can be part of the solution. Should everyone run out and adopt a foster child? No. It's hard. It's very hard. Dr. Russell Moore puts it way better than I can in this post, titled "Don't Adopt!": http://www.russellmoore.com/2011/10/12/dont-adopt/ . One quote from the article says, "We need a battalion of Christians ready to adopt, foster, and minister to orphans. But that means we need Christians ready to care for real orphans, with all the brokenness and risk that comes with it. We need Christians who can reflect the adopting power of the gospel, which didn’t seek out a boutique nursery but a household of ex-orphans who were found wallowing in our own blood, with Satan’s genes in our bloodstreams."
Tom and I are reminded daily....no hourly that we have Satan's genes in our bloodstream which makes us all the more humble and so very grateful for the power of the gospel and our adoption in Christ.
And while I'm ranting, I would like to go ahead and say that I believe those of us who are a tad older than the typical parents of young children are in possibly the best position to consider adopting kids "from hard places." But that will have to wait for another post since this one is so long. The above jc article gives ways that you can get involved and help, even without fostering or adopting and I would beg you to begin asking God earnestly how He would have you help!!!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-28T18:15:00.001-08:00

Jeremy and Lucas discovered that there was even more family that they hadn't met yet when we had Thanksgiving dinner last Saturday at my aunt's house. They were hesitant at first but soon found the toys and the X box and a bunch of kids to play with and were very sad when it was time to leave.

Ian was his usual flirt!

Creek Exploration

2011-11-27T19:17:00.001-08:00

After looking at the extended forecast, we decided to take advantage of what could possibly be the last nice day before winter sets in and go exploring. The creek behind our house winds through nearby fields and woods and thankfully, there are paths through most of it that the golf cart can manage. We found an awesome, old stone bridge and lots of hedge apples. It must have been a good year for the osage orange fruit.

Jeremy

Ian and Dad

Lucas

Lauramie Creek

Good bye Fall......

Randomness....

2011-11-23T18:18:00.001-08:00

I did 6 posts all at once and it took 3 days to download the pictures so although they came up on the blog in the exact opposite order than I had planned, I'm not inclined to change them tonight.

Keep reading to see what these Humphreys have been up to.

Random photos that haven't made it into other posts.....

I love this picture of Brenna!

First birthday photo shoot

Crazy Lucas

Not sure if Jeremy is choking Drew or what....

Olivia talking to her doggies....or taunting them

Funny face

Leaves

2011-11-22T18:45:00.001-08:00

And, before the snow starts falling, I just had to post some pictures of the beautiful fall we had around here. I am so blessed to see these gorgeous views from every window of our house and always think I can capture them with my camera, but it's just not possible.....at least not for me!

Grandparents Day

2011-11-22T17:52:00.001-08:00

Jeremy and Lucas had Grandparents Day at their school on Nov. 11 and were blessed to have both sets of grandparents attend the program, visit their rooms and meet their teachers. Mom-mom and Dad-dad traveled from KY for the weekend (and won the award for the grandparents who traveled the farthest) and Mimi and Pa came from Danville for the day. We are so very thankful for God's gift of family and especially, ours!!! Even though their first batch of grandkids is much older, our parents are so willing to do it all again for Ian and Jeremy and Lucas and don't even mind that they frequently mix their names up. Thank you, Mom-mom and Dad-dad and Mimi and Pa! We love you!

Bowling

2011-11-22T17:11:00.001-08:00

We still had one day of fall break left after the wedding trip so we spent most of the day at the social security office getting the paperwork done to change the boys' cards. Not fun. However, we ended up with enough time to go to Target to spend some gift cards that were burning holes in their pockets and then, out for pizza and one game of bowling. Jeremy and Lucas don't think they've ever bowled but they did a pretty good job and of course, Ian always loves a chance to bowl!

Lucas is a fierce competitor!

Jeremy is a leftie and learned quickly

Looks like a pro!

Ian actually won the game.....of course he has a little advantage. :-)

Strike!!!!!!!

Fun day, despite the trip to the SS office.

Nashville

2011-11-22T16:24:00.001-08:00

The last weekend in October was the boys' fall break and also happened to be our niece's wedding in Nashville, TN. Tom took time off too and we headed south, got a hotel with a pool and had a little getaway with all the kids. Of course, I didn't get any pictures except for these in the pool, but we had a great time, got to see lots of family and loved being part of Kathryn and Cliff's special day. (I wish I had pictures of Lucas and Ian dancing!)

Brenna is a fish!!!

Is he cute or what???

Brave Drew

Family pool picture

Throwing Lucas is a bit easier than throwing Ian.

Pops and Brenna

Family Dedication

2011-11-21T17:56:00.001-08:00

Last weekend, these crazy grandparents, along with the other set of crazy grandparents headed to Memphis for Olivia's (or rather, Troy and Lindsay's) family dedication at their church. We are so thankful we could be part of this very meaningful event. The church hosted a brunch on Saturday and their pastor talked about all of us, but espeically the parents committing to raise their children to know the Christ of the Gospel. He spoke of grounding them in truth and grace. The theme was "7000 Days to Make a Difference." Most of us have our children in our homes for about 7000 days. What are we going to do with those days? Troy and Lindsay shared goals that they have for their marriage as well as goals for Olivia and then the grandparents were asked to surround the family and pray for them. What a blessing to have that priviledge!! Tom and I can't even express how thankful we are that our grandaughters have parents who love the Lord and are seeking to raise their children to do the same.

And, I would certainly be remiss if I didn't mention that the only way we could have made this trip is because Drew, Elizabeth and Brenna stayed with the younger boys and kept things running smoothly on the home front. We are so very thankful!!!

Lindsay, Olivia and Troy

Grandpa and Grandma Ro, O, Grammy, Pops

Waiting patiently

Daddy and O

Hanging out in her rocking chair

Giving her baby a wild ride!

Welcome to my party (Troy and Lindsay had some of their awesome neighbors over for lunch on Sunday)

Playing peekaboo with Daddy

Baby Conner

Olivia's good friend, Caroline, and her mommy

And, because it's either "feast or famine" around here, I did 6 posts all at once (which has taken 3 days!) So, you can keep reading if you are so inclined.

Ian gets his "voice" back!!!!

2011-11-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

It took 2 hours to upload, but here it is! Ian got his ECO 2 augmentative communication device today! Yahoooo!!!!! We are all pretty excited and especially, Ian!

To those of you who made this happen, "thank you" doesn't seem adequate but we do thank you so very much for giving Ian his voice back so quickly! What a blessing!!!!

Sick Day

2011-11-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

Lucas was a little under the weather yesterday and stayed home from school. (Poor guy couldn't be far from a bathroom.) This was one of his projects. It was his idea but I got to help come up with attributes of God and also help him spell them. Sweet opportunity to discuss our awesome God!

It's Here!!!!! But......

2011-11-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

The good news is that Ian's communication device is here!!!!!!!!!!! The not-so-good news is that I can't get an appointment at Crossroads to get it programmed untill Wednesday. So, we opted to not even tell him the device has arrived. Seems cruel to give it to him when he can't use it yet. So, next Wednesday after it's programmed, we'll pretend it just arrived and let him open the BIG, exciting box!!!! CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Trick or Treat

2011-11-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

Look who showed up at our house last night - the cutest little Tigger and Piglet you've ever seen!

I have many more adorable pictures but I'm growing impatient with my sssssslllllllloooooooowwwww computer, so this will have to do for now.

Overwhelmed!

2011-10-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share the wonderful, amazing, awesome news that the cost of Ian's communication device is covered, thanks to some extremely generous donations. Tom and I can't even talk about it without "losing it." We are blessed and humbled beyond words and just completely overwhelmed. So....first thing Monday morning, I will be on the phone with the Prentke Romich company and the ECO 2 should be shipped within 3 days!!!!! Praise be to God!!!!!
Stay tuned for videos of Ian using the device (if he will cooperate!)

And to those of you who made this happen; you will never know what it means to us and especially to Ian!

We love you!

Explanation

2011-10-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

For all of you who saw my rant on facebook and wondererd what was going on with Ian's communication device, I will post the Reader's Digest version of the saga. First though, I must say that I didn't intend to rant, but I was/am very frustrated. Ever since Ian came home (over 2 years ago), different folks have been trying to figure out what kind of device would work best for Ian. It's all so very complicated because we don't know exactly how his eyes work (we know he sees, but not sure how), his hand is fairly functional but he doesn't have great fine motor skills, and he is only just now starting to learn how to read (actually, memorizing sight words). So, after trying several things that didn't seem to be working well, we took him to Easter Seals Crossroads (wonderful folks there!) and had him evaluated by a therapist who, after trying several devices, landed on the best fit for Ian. It is larger than most, so he can see and access the icons. It is an amazing piece of technology made by the Prentke Romich company (more wonderful folks there, too!) and we were able to rent it for 4 months (they usually only allow 30 days) so we could evaluate Ian's ability to learn to use it. During that time, the wheels were already turning to submit the proposal to our insurance company for the purchase of the device so he wouldn't have to be without one, if we decided on it. Also during that time frame, Ian has been learning to use it to communicate with the staff and peers at school. He carries on conversations with the secretaries when he takes the attendance to the office; he asks his classmates who is getting lunch; he participates in calendar and weather; he answers questions about time, letters, sight words, math, etc. At home he can tell me which toy he wants to play with while he's on his wedge for therapy. When everyone is talking, he can say "Excuse me, I have something to say." He can tell knock-knock jokes (which you can imagine how much he loves doing!) and all of that is barely scratching the surface of what it will do. This is getting long and the bottom line is that the rental unit has to go back next week and I found out on Monday (why does it have to take so long???) that our insurance will only cover about half of the $10,000 price tag because Prentke Romich isn't "in network" (although they've been trying to get in for 2 years!)
All that to say that this very determined mama will find a way to get him that device and sooner rather than later. I am contacting service organizations, United Cerebral Palsy foundation, etc. If anyone knows of a philanthropic group who might want to give a child a voice, please let me know! Everyone who knows me knows I abhor asking for money (and was terrible at doing so in a job that required it!) but I'll do whatever it takes for Ian to have what he needs. If you care to see more of what this device is, here is the site: https://store.prentrom.com/product_info.php/cPath/11/products_id/53
And, believe it or not, that is an abbreviated version of the story!

The Jamaican King turns 12!

2011-10-26T02:55:00.000-07:00

Twelve years ago today, in another country, a woman we may never know gave birth to a very special boy. Because she didn't feel capable of caring for him, she took him to a wonderful children's home where he was loved and cared for for the next 8 years.....until God brought us together! Today is the 3rd birthday we've been able to celebrate with Ian and I say it all the time, but what a joy he is! He has taught us so much but the one thing we continually marvel at is his contentment. He can't walk, talk, eat without aspirating, drink, brush his teeth, dress himself, write his name, and of course the list goes on. And yet, God has given him great contentment and such a spirit of joyfulness in spite of his disability. I recently attended Ian's annual case review for school and the first paragraph of his IEP begins: "Ian is a very happy and loving young man, and is well liked by both peers and adults. He quickly establishes rapport with new people. Ian actively seeks attention, is motivated to communicate snd wants to please others....."

So, it's not just us....everyone who meets and gets to know Ian seems to love him. We just happen to be blessed enough to be his parents and for that, we are so thankful to our sovereign God.

Because of crazy schedules, it worked best to celebrate last night so here are a few pictures from the gift opening.

What you can't see here is the dump truck that goes forward and backward and dumps and makes all kinds of annoying noises. He loves it!

A semi that has a tool kit built into it

Rescue helicopter

Crazy glasses and nose!

This is a picture from Ian's 10th birthday, which was 6 weeks after we brought him home. Boy, has he grown up and filled out and made so much progress!

Happy Birthday, Ian! We love you!!!

Thirty One! (Years, that is.)

2011-10-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

Thirty one years ago on a beautiful (very warm) fall evening, Tom and I stood in front of Pastor Ron McDugle and many friends and family and committed ourselves to God and each other. After dating for almost 4 years, we thought we had it all figured out. Ha! God uses marriage to humble us, to grow us, to complete us and mostly, to reflect Christ and His Bride, the Church. That's a scary responsibility and one that we have messed up time and again. However, we serve a merciful, long-suffering, patient God who has used His Word, people, circumstances and experiences to continue molding us into the union He desires. We realize daily that we have a long way to go, but know that He who started a good work in us will be faithful to complete it. I am thankful beyond words for the husband and marriage that God has blessed this underserving wife with. He is the most important person on this earth to me (yes honey, even more than the grandaughters) and the one who puts up with me, encourages me, challenges me, listens to me, protects me, loves me (even when I'm not lovable) and knows me better than anyone.

Happy Anniversary to my Handsome Hunk!

I love you!!!

Party!

2011-10-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

Over 30 friends and family gathered to celebrate Brenna's first birthday! Here are a few pictures from the day:

Not too sure about all the singing and a cake in front of her

She had more fun playing with it than eating it!

Drew, thanking everyone for coming and for the influence they have had and will have on Brenna's life, noting that she will be surrounded by the gospel as she continues to grow and develop. The grandfathers got to pray for her before she opened her presents.

Opening presents!

Brenna and friends (Miriam on the left is a few weeks older and Liam on the right is a few days younger)

Birthday girl with 3 of her many uncles

Balloons!

Is something in your eye, Pops?

Happy First Birthday, Brenna Noelle!

Thanks for such a fun party!

We love you!

Birthday Girl!

2011-10-15T04:25:00.000-07:00

One year ago today, I arranged for a sitter to stay with Ian after he was in bed so Tom and I could celebrate our 30th anniversary (which was 3 days away). It turned out to be the best anniversary date ever and one we will never forget! We picked up a Subway sandwich for the hungry, expectant father and headed to the hospital to pace the halls, awaiting the arrival of our grandaughter. It seemed like forever but wasn't really too long until she made her appearance and soon after, we got to hold her and look into those big, beautiful eyes that melted our hearts immediately. Brenna Noelle joined our family that evening and what a joy she is, still melting our hearts with every flash of her smile!!!

Happy First Birthday, Brenna! We can't wait to celebrate with you!!!!

Much love,

Pops, Grammy, Uncle Ian, Uncle Jeremy, Uncle Lucas

Olivia Time

2011-10-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

Grammy is reluctanly wrapping up a few days of an "Olivia fix." Thanks to my wonderful husband and some amazing friends, I have been in Memphis since Monday evening and enjoying every minute with this beauty (and her parents.)

We had to go to the zoo, of course! Memphis has an impressive zoo!

Watching the penguins.....or the people - I'm not sure which

Fascinated by the rooster in the barnyard

Taking it all in

Prettiest fall decoration there is!

We also went to the park.....

She loves to swing!

Walking the plank

Phoebe gets a hug

We also visited the most amazing botannical gardens with a children's play area that I can't even describe. It is out of this world and we all had so much fun!!

Getting ready for a voyage

It even "rained" while the sky was blue and the sun was shining!

Sweet face!

Peeking out the window in one of the play houses

Pretty profile

Tickled

Adorable flower amongst the beautiful flowers in one of the many gardens

2 pretty ladies

Grammy's favorite

Hmmmmm. How many pictures is this crazy lady going to snap?????

Freedom!!!

Oh wait.....perhaps this is my favorite! :-)

I'm beyond thankful for a husband who took over all the home duties on top of his busy work/church schedule and for all the friends who helped watch the boys after school to give me the time to be a grammy!!! What a joy to spend uninterrupted time with this sweet little blessing. God is good!

Pep Session

2011-09-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

When Ian changed schools this year, one of my biggest concerns was that he wouldn't be with "typically developing" kids very much because he is in a self contained classroom. The kids at Cole had been so good to him, treating him like a celebrity. Maybe I didn't need to worry:

Long Overdue

2011-09-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

I can't seem to ever muster the patience to blog when I know it will take hours to load the pictures, so yes, this is old news. However, pictures of the grandaughters are never old news! Lindsay and Olivia came to visit recently and we were so busy being entertained by Olivia (and Brenna when they were together) that I didn't take too many pictures but here are a few.

Learning to share :-)

Fascinated by the ducks at the Indy Zoo

Brenna and Mommy watching some amazing animal (with Olivia and Mommy in the background)

There isn't a dog in the world that is a stranger to Olivia (this dog is actually a native of Thailand!)

Having a very serious, private conversation at the zoo

Jeremy and Lucas at the zoo

Checking out the treadmill

Olivia loves goldfish (or in this case, gold sharks)

Sweet Girl!

Lindsay and the little brothers

This was a great visit for Jeremy and Lucas to get to know their sister and niece better. Almost every day since they left, Lucas has asked when Windsay and Owivia are coming back and just can't grasp that the 9 hour drive makes it a bit difficult to come very often.

More sharing

Olivia loved playing with Jeremy and Lucas!

Brenna was fascinated by birds on a sign ...

so fascinated that we all were watching the birds

Lindsay and Olivia

It was wonderful having them here and it sure was sad and quiet when they left (well.....only quiet while the boys were at school!)

Adoption Day (2)

2011-08-23T19:38:00.003-07:00

This is a continuation of last night's post when I was too tired to wait on our slow computer to download pictures. So, here are a few more from the day:

All 4 Humphrey men

Can you tell there were people on both sides taking pictures?

Mimi and Pa joined us for the event

Celebration Dinner

Drew and his sidekick (Pretty much wherever Drew is, you'll find Jeremy)

Dad and the "L-train" as he calls Lucas

Since everyone was having pictures in twos, Ian insisted on his picture with Pa

And this one is for you, Aunt Linsday. Brenna loves lemons, even though they caused a pretty hilarious face!

(4 posts at once so keep reading if you care to see more pictures!)

Meet Jeremy

2011-08-23T19:38:00.002-07:00

Jeremy recently turned 10 and is in the 4th grade. He is a loving, sweet, sensitive boy who wants to help and loves to please. He has great organizational skills and can't stand it when things are in disarray. He loves to read and draw, play with Legos, trucks, the usual boy stuff. He loves music and has a nice voice. He has become such a good brother to Ian (who adores him) and is always concerned about him. Jeremy has been counting the days until "we go to see the judge" aka the "adoption hearing" and is trying to wrap his head around the fact that he has a new forever family and it's really forever this time.

A few photos from the past few months:

Welcome to the family, Jeremy! We love you!!1

Meet Lucas

2011-08-23T19:38:00.001-07:00

Lucas is 6, but only for a few more days! He is one active little guy and I do mean little. At (almost) 7 years old, he weighs a whopping 38 lbs and wears size 4T and 5 slim. He has a gleam in his eye that gives his orneriness away but he's as cute as they come! Pretty much his full time mission at home is to make Ian laugh and he does it quite well. In fact, so well that they both get in trouble sometimes for craziness at mealtime instead of eating. The 3 of them can be found with Lucas on Ian's lap and Jeremy pushing the wheelchair as they race through the house, playing the "Awesome Guys." And, awesome is exactly what they are!

A few photos from the past months:

Welcome to the family, Lucas! We love you!!!

Jeremy and Lucas HUMPHREY

2011-08-23T19:38:00.000-07:00

Now that I can actually post pictures, I have many to share!

This was from last Easter when the boys were gathering Easter eggs (in Wal-Mart sacks instead of baskets-what kind of Mother does that???)

Humphrey men all dressed up for Luke and Laura's wedding in May

Mother's Day 2011

Fun trip to visit Troy, Lindsay and "Wivia" in July

Corky's Bar-b-q in Memphis

3 Crazy Boys! (That is Lucas under the bag/hat)

They are good to entertain Ian while he is on his wedge :-)

Drew, giving Jeremy and Lucas (and the monkeys) a "horse" ride

First day of school at Cole Elementary. Aug. 16, 2011

Jeremy and Lucas with their case worker, Danielle, after the hearing (suckers were compliments of the judge)

This was the 2nd time we met the boys (late Feb or early March)

For all of you who have prayed for and supported us, THANK YOU and please don't stop now!!! We know that many challenges lie ahead and more importantly, we know that our God, who brought these boys into our family, is sovereign and faithful and merciful and grace-giving. We give Him all the glory - great things He has done!!!

New Humphrey Men

2011-08-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

It's official!!!! Jeremy and Lucas are now Humphreys and we couldn't be happier to finally be able to introduce them!!! I'm too tired and our computer is too slow to post more, but I plan to do lots of updating tomorrow.

Judge Daniels, Tom, Angela, Ian, Jeremy and Lucas

New Pets

2011-08-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

These 3 lovely young ladies have been gracing our yard every day for awhile. They don't seem to mind if we are outside with them and I've even had them walk toward me while I am snapping pictures on more than one occasion. We all love having them around (especially the boys), although I would prefer they leave my hostas alone. :-)

Changes

2011-08-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

Until now, J and L have been in the same school since they began school, so today was a big change for them. They started at Cole (where Ian attended last year) and although they've been there twice to see it and meet a few people, they were pretty nervous. J was very quiet and L kept asking me to just take him home, but my spies tell me they did great. I have no doubt that they will love it, just like Ian did! This community is so very blessed to have a small school like Cole, where the staff love on all the kids and the crazy, fun principal knows their names. I wish I could post the traditional "first day of school" pictures of the boys but we have to wait a few more days.

Ian, on the other hand, was pumped and ready to go to school if it means he gets to ride the school bus! He has also changed schools and is going to Wea Ridge Middle School. Technically, he skipped 5th grade and moved right on to 6th grade! :-) We feel very blessed to have had his teacher work with him all summer so she is familiar with his communication device, how to motivate him, how to communicate with him, and she knows how ornery he can be!

We are looking forward to a great school year for all 3 boys!

Waiting anxiously for the sound of the bus!

There it is!!!

Going up.....See ya later, Mom and Dad!

Encouragement

2011-08-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

I just had to write a quick post about the encouragement that our family has received over the last 2-3 months. I'm really not sure we would have survived thus far without it.
Some of the many ways that we have been encouraged:

My mom calling to say she is coming to do whatever she can for the day (she ended up doing all my ironing and staying with the boys so I could have lunch with a friend)
Both of our parents loving on the boys and taking them for boat/tractor/gator rides
Our older kids listening patiently and offering encouragement, support and prayer
Drew and Elizabeth coming on short notice more than once so we can get away when we thought we would pull our hair out
Lindsay and Troy allowing us to invade their home and their dear neighbors allowing us to invade their backyard and pool
Extended family who love on the boys, play games with them and send them hurling through the air into the water
A dear friend who texts me scripture to encourage me - several times a day!
That same dear friend who brought meals on two different occasions
That same dear friend who came and stayed and even put the boys to bed so we could stay out extra late
Another dear friend who showed up with kids to play, clothes to share, and a meal, too!
Many wonderful friends and family who commit to pray for us daily.....and do it!
The person who cuts my hair praying in the middle of a haircut because he saw firsthand what the typical chaos is like
Our pastor and his wife bringing DQ blizzards after the kids are in bed, just to encourage us
Our good friend/therapist taking time to come for a home visit, not to mention numerous phone calls, e-mails, etc.
Young women volunteering their time to go with me to Ian's appointments for the purpose of watching J and L or playing with them for 3 hours while I attend a case conference
Friends who send encouraging notes/cards out of the blue
A pediatrician who let me call him at home to talk through medical issues
A church family who has embraced all of our boys and make a point to draw them out
Friends and family (some of whom the boys have never met) who remember their birthdays
One of Ian's paras from Cole who entertained them for 4 hours and then asked if we would let her do it again!

OK, so this didn't end up as quick as I thought. I could continue, but you get the picture. We are being ministered to in amazing ways and feel blessed, humbled, thankful, encouraged and loved. You all know who you are and we love and appreciate each of you!!!

Survival Mode

2011-08-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

I have been reminded multiple times during the last few days that I haven't done a great job of updating the blog this summer. So......I shall offer some excuses:

Ian has been a busy guy this summer - Physical therapy every week, speech therapy most weeks (to learn to use his communication device), trips to Crossroads (to get and evaluate the communication device), Pete's Pals, Camp WACK, Camp Mephibosheth, ESY (extended school year), and doctor's appointments.
We had our basement remodeled which has been a very big blessing, but we are still getting it all sorted out and put back together.
Tom ended a job of 20 years and started a new one.
We took a trip to KY and one to TN.
We added two boys to the mix. This one should be listed first but I left it for last so I could explain. J and L moved in on June 4 and life hasn't been the same since. We are all learning to be a family but to be honest, it's been a challenge. God is stretching Tom and I in ways we didn't know were possible and humbling us greatly in the process. We have complete faith that this is God's sovereign plan for our family and that He alone can give us the patience, wisdom and grace to endure and even enjoy what lies ahead. Looking back over the last 2 months, we realize that God has allowed progress and also realize that we have a long way to go. He is faithful!!

So, I feel like we've been in "survival mode." Just trying to get to the grocery every week, get 3 meals a day on the table, keep the laundry done, keep the house relatively straight (haha!), get everyone to all of Ian's appointments, etc. Doesn't sound like anything out of the ordinary, but trust me, it's been a challenge. School starts in 8 days and perhaps I will have more time to blog when that happens. In the meantime, I have 3 case conferences to get through (we've already had one) and need to train the people who will be working with Ian.

And....2 weeks from today, we will be able to post pictures of the new Humphrey men!

New Beginnings

2011-08-01T17:45:00.000-07:00

Last Friday marked the end of 2 decades that Tom has worked as a Quality Manager (among several other titles) for IMMI in Westfield. This company that was founded on Biblical values has been a blessing in our lives for these last 20 years. Many of the wonderful folks there have watched our first 2 kids grow up through pictures and Tom's stories. They cheered us on and supported us through Ian's adoption. And even now, many of them continue to pray for our family as we add 2 more boys with "special needs" of their own. So, it was with very mixed emotions that Tom told them all good-by last week. We will both miss so many people from there.

And, this morning, marks the beginning of a new era for us. Tom began work as a Quality Manager for Donaldson in Frankfort and his commute has gone from 39 miles to 9 miles. I'm not sure what he's going to do without a 45 minute commute both ways and I seriously mean that. Over the years, he has used the time to pray, prepare for the day ahead and decompress at the end of the day. We feel very blessed that he has this new opportunity so close to home!

It should come as no surprise that I couldn't find a picture of Tom without someone else in it. This one was taken shortly after Ian came home and boy, has he changed (Ian, that is!!!) Tom is as handsome as always!!

Memphis

2011-07-30T11:42:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, we loaded the car and car-top carrier and headed to Memphis with all 3 boys in tow. The time with Olivia and her parents was way too short but oh, so fun!!!! Since it was too hot to do much else, we spent lots of time in the neighbor's pool. Lindsay and Troy have awesome, amazing neighbors on their cove! Wish I could post pictures of all the boys (Tom included) in the pool, but that will still have to wait. They had a blast and were thoroughly worn out. Here are a few pictures from the trip. They have taken 2 days to download and that is no joke!

Just love those curls!!!

Watching the crazy boys in the pool

The little queen (as J dubbed her)

Ian has gotten so much stronger in the water and was actually swimming

We can't go to Memphis without eating bar-b-q, which Olivia loves

and so does Ian!

Olivia and her special chair

From the get-go, she was running to Pops with her arms up, tightening the string around her little finger

(That's a mosquito bite on her sweet, little cheek)

Thanks Lindsay, Troy and Olivia for letting us invade your home and spend time with you!!!

Love and miss you all!

4th of July Fun!!

2011-07-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

We were able to travel to beautiful Falls of Rough, KY (where Tom's parents live) last weekend for our first road trip as a family of five and J and L's first family reunion. Everyone did great in the van and J and L loved getting to know more family members. It's so fun to catch up with everyone's busy lives and just hang out and visit. Wish I could post pictures with J and L because I've got some great ones, but that will have to wait. Until then, you'll have to look at the same adorable children that I'm always talking about!

Miss Olivia on the boat

Ian and Dad, lookin' good in their shades!

Movie star

Brenna and her mommy on the boat

Cousin Katy and 2nd cousin, Amelia

Ian with his favorite Uncle Bo (Bo's words)

Drew and Elizabeth on the tube

Drew, jumping off a cliff (sorry I missed you, Michael!)

Mom-mom and Brenna

Once again, trying to get a good picture of both grandaughters......

I must say it's a hilarious undertaking

As good as it gets this time

Thanks Mom-mom and Dad-dad for letting us invade your house and for all the yummy food (especially the ice cream!!!) and for driving us around on the boat all weekend and for all your love and support!

Camp WACK rocks!!!!

2011-06-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

We have been hearing about Camp WACK since we brought Ian home and couldn't imagine that he would actually be able to "water ski" but he did it! Yesterday was his day to attend and he thoroughly enjoyed it. This program is amazing!!! Check it out at campwack.org. There were many volunteers who give of their time, talents, boats, gas, food, etc, etc to make memories for some special kids! Tom and I were overwhelmed that so many people would donate and sacrifice so much for Ian and the other children. I don't think we can imagine the freedom that these kids feel as they zip along the water independently. Ian wasn't quite sure at first, but as soon as he was put into the water, he was ready to go! (I think he's part fish.) Not only do they provide the kids with as many rides as they can get in, but they had a fantastic lunch and many awesome on-shore activities for the siblings. Besides the water skiing, there were fire trucks and an ambulance for them to look into and even get in. And, to top it off, the lake is right beside a train track, too, so it's a little boy's heaven. After 5 hours and 3 long skiing rides, we told the boys we had to leave and none of them were ready, but especially, Ian!

Camp WACK Volunteers and Donors: THANK YOU! You may never know what this day means to so many kids!

Ready to ski!

As they lowered him into the water from the dock

Prince Charming waiting for his boat (he REALLY loved being surrounded by so many young ladies!)

And, off he goes!

2 jet skis follow closely, ready to grab him in case he would tip over (which Ian would probably love!)

Happy boy at the end of his first ride!

I should also mention that these folks that do Camp WACK for 3 days in a row so they can serve as many kids as possible. That's a lot of volunteers, boats, gas, vacation days, food, etc, etc.!

Lindsay Jill

2011-06-21T21:07:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem possible that it was 28 years ago today that we excitedly arrived at the hospital, knowing that within a matter of hours, we would be parents and holding our sweet baby in our arms. It took more hours than I would have liked, but of course, it was worth every minute. I'm getting old and forgetful, but I'll never forget looking into that beautiful face and thanking God over and over for this precious gift of life. Lindsay Jill Humphrey was born at 7:39 p.m. and I didn't sleep at all that night due to the sheer joy and excitement of being a mom. (The only thing that compares is being a grandma!!) 28 years later and it's still a joy and honor to be her mom!

Happy, happy birthday Lindsay!

We love you!!!

Camp Mephibosheth

2011-06-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

Ian had an amazing opportunity to attend Camp Mephibosheth yesterday for one of their day camps. The camp director told me that Ian was the hit of the camp. Why am I not surprised? Mephibosheth ministers to special needs people of all ages and there were many of them there yesterday. He got to swim first, which is always a treat for Ian, make some crafts and interact with miniature horses, rabbits, donkey, chickens, etc. However, the highlight of the day was the Flying Squirrel activity. They strap the camper in as if they were going to do the climbing wall, then they attach them to a pully system and pull them straight up into the air - 40 feet in the air!!! I just knew Ian would love it and he did! He even waved from all the way up. Such a neat opportunity for folks who don't get to do anything so daring most of the time.

Getting the harness on

Now, for the helmet

Going up......

and up.....

and up!

This sweet, young lady is studying to be an OT and was thrilled to spend the day with Ian, who was completely smitten by her by the end of the day.
While Ian attended camp, I took J and L to Lake Mississinewa and found a playground near the lake where we had a picnic lunch and played for awhile and then got back to see Ian do the "Flying Squirrel". Wish I could post some great pics that I took of them. Hopefully, only 6-8 more weeks before I can do just that!
So, all in all, it was a great day, well worth the very long drive over and back!

Another Birthday!

2011-06-08T03:54:00.000-07:00

A little over 2 weeks ago, we celebrated our daughter-in-law's birthday and I mentioned that Tom and I began praying for our children's spouses when they were young. Little did we know that the sweet boy who would marry our daughter was only a few miles away, growing up in a wonderful family with 2 big sisters and terrific parents. Troy started hanging around our house when he and Lindsay were juniors in high school and it didn't take long before we were hoping that he was "the one!" Besides being a genius, he is a growing man of God, a handyman extraordinaire, a wonderful husband and daddy and the best son-in-law ever!

Happy Birthday, Troy!!! We love you and are so thankful that you are part of our family!!!

Turn About

2011-06-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

If you've read this blog much at all during this past school year, you know that Ian has had an awesome principal who has a thing for unique hats. Ian knows that and always points to his head when Mr. Pinto is in sight. So, for most of the school year, Mr. Pinto let Ian borrow his hats for a night and I never knew what would greet me when Ian got off the bus (cows, dragons, ice cream cones, etc.). Well, we've been searching for a hat that Mr. Pinto didn't already have and found a friend of ours wearing it on facebook, of all places! I asked about it and before you know it, the very hat arrived at our door via the UPS truck (thank you Coulters!!!). Ian was beside himself and we took it right over to Mr. Pinto, who was most excited to get a new hat!

Of course, Ian had to wear the hat before handing it over.

It's true that there is more than corn in Indiana, but there is a LOT of corn, so every hat-obsessed, Indiana principal should have a cornhead hat!

Long Weekend

2011-05-31T04:08:00.000-07:00

Because of the 3 day Memorial Day weekend, J and L were able to stay an extra day and we packed it with as much fun as possible, including playing outside, church, supper at Drew and Elizabeth's, a long bike/golf cart ride that became an adventure when the golf cart overheated 2 miles from home, and a trip to Mimi and Pa's! I wish I could post pictures of J and L driving the tractor and catching fish, but that will have to wait.

Here is Miss Brenna with her new shades.

Ian loves having a Bobcat parked in front of our house!

The hail storm that caused quite a ruckus during dinner Saturday evening.

Ian, driving the boat and loving it!

Ian, driving the tractor and making the bucket go up and down (the kid loves levers!) Thanks Mimi and Pa for letting us invade your resort. :-)

Yesterday was the last time that we have to say good-by to J and L. They move in this Saturday for good!

sdrawkcab

2011-05-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

I published the following 3 posts backwards. Duh! Should start with the rehearsal dinner, followed by the wedding, followed by the FUN!

SO.MUCH.FUN.

2011-05-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Since Lindsay, Troy and Olivia were here for the wedding, we were able to snatch a couple of family meals with everyone together (except the newest Humphrey boys) and enjoyed being together. Tom and I just can't get enough of these precious grandaughters and think every single thing they do is so awesome and amazing and cute and adorable and funny and......you get the idea and if you have grandchildren, you completely understand!

Brenna loves Uncle Ian and was giving him a kiss

Great Mimi and Pa and Mamma came for a quick visit

The girls

Olivia, playing peek-a-boo with Pops

We tried and tried to get a picture with both of them smiling, but this was the best we could do.

Aunt Lindsay with Brenna

Ian and Pa

Trying to get an updated picture with our growing grandaughters

Olivia, running from the "bumble bee"

Pops and Brenna

Olivia and Mommy

Ian even let Lindsay, Troy and Olivia ride his golf cart and they are waiting for Dad to bring it from the garage (above).

Going for a ride

We are so thankful for the time we have together and are reminded once again how blessed we are!

Wedding

2011-05-25T12:05:00.001-07:00

J and L (new Humphrey brothers) got to attend the wedding with us and weren't ready to leave when the time came. We were excited to introduce them to lots of uncles, aunts and grandparents and especially big sister, Lindsay and her family.

Brenna took a real liking to L and I'm hoping I won't get in trouble for posting this picture since you can't see his face.

Olivia, saying "Grammy is Number 1!!"

Olivia and her daddy

Pops with his girls

Elizabeth, Drew and Brenna

Troy, Lindsay and Olivia

Ian, with 2 very special people whom he adores!

Tom's parents with their boys

This picture is blurry because Ian was dancing so fast ....with Luke's help. :-)

Rehearsal Dinner

2011-05-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

Our nephew, Luke, and his fiance Laura, finally tied the knot this past weekend and we enjoyed every minute of our time with them, family and friends. Luke and Laura are easy going, laid back kind of kids and they wanted a casual rehearsal dinner where they could invite all the in-town family and thus, we got to attend. Ian absolutely adores Luke and Laura! They have been around ever since he came home from Jamaica and they have loved on him, teased him and cared for him (I refuse to call it "babysitting" since Ian is far from a baby!) So, it was a special weekend to celebrate the beginning of their new life together!

Brenna, entertaining Mom-mom and Dad-dad

Ian, excitedly waiting for the ball to drop from the roof (Drew was on the other side of the shelter, throwing it over)

Ian and Elizabeth

Drew, sitting on Ian's lap in the wheelchair - crazy kids!

Keep reading for posts on the entire weekend (mostly with pictures of the grandaughters. :-)

Birthday Girl!

2011-05-22T03:35:00.000-07:00

When our children were very young, someone wisely advised us to pray for their future spouses. It seemed very odd to do that when we couldn't even imagine them taking care of themselves, let alone marrying someone, but we did it anyway (although sporadically at first). As they grew older and we actually could think about them tying the knot someday, our prayers became more and more frequent and earnest, knowing how important their life partners would be. Well.....the beautiful little girl who God picked out special for Drew was about 45 miles away, growing up in a large, wonderful family with Godly parents who loved her and raised her to be a beautiful young woman who loves and serves the Lord. And when I say "beautiful," I certainly mean that she is beautiful on the outside, but much more importantly, she is beautiful on the inside. She is the perfect daughter-in-law, a wonderful wife and amazing mommy.

Elizabeth, we love you and are so thankful that you are part of our family! Happy, happy birthday!!!

Awards

2011-05-19T07:19:00.000-07:00

Ian's school had a special program for the special kids and each child was recognized for the progress they have made this year. Ian was very excited for everyone, clapping at each name called, but as you would expect, he was most excited when his name was called. His award was for learning 50 sight words this year! Way to go, Ian!!!

Mrs. Kelsey giving Ian his award

Shaking Mr. Pinto's (principal) hand

Ian's best buddy at school. This is the same little guy who spontaneously left where he was sitting during the Grandparent's Day program to wipe Ian's chin. What a sweet boy!

These pictures require an explanation. Last summer, when Ian met Mr. Pinto for the first time, he took him for a tour of the school and when they got to the cafeteria, he wheeled him up to a table and told Ian that this is where you say, "Pizza, please!!!" while simultanously pounding the table. Of course, Ian thought it was hilarious and immediately started pounding the table. So, that has become a thing with them (like the hats.) That's what he's doing in these pictures and you can see how much Ian loves it!

Every school should have a principal like Mr. Pinto - he is the BEST!!!!

These are the folks that have worked so hard to help Ian progress this year. From left to right: Mr. Pinto, Mrs. Kelsey (resource teacher), Mrs. Morris (para who gives Mrs. Mays a break) and Mrs. Mays (Ian's para)

When I have more time, I'll do a post with more details about Ian's progress because he's learned a lot this year, thanks to these patient people and the support of his GLASS teachers.

26 years!

2011-05-07T03:33:00.000-07:00

26 years ago today, Tom and I were blessed with a beautiful, no, a handsome, baby boy and at that time, we thought our little family was complete (and it was for 20+ years). Drew Thomas was 8 lb. 13 oz. and 21.5 inches of joy! We are so thankful for the years God gave us to raise him, for the wonderful wife and daughter God has given him and for the Godly young man/husband/father he has become because of His abundant grace in Drew's life.

Happy Birthday, Drew!

We love you, are so very thankful for you and can't wait to see how God is going to continue using you to advance His kingdom!

Opportunities

2011-05-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

For 5 Thursday evenings, Ian had the opportunity to participate in Pete's Pals, which stands for Physical Education Teacher Educators Supporting Physical Activity and Life Skills (whew!) and is supported by Purdue University Dept of Health and Kinesiology in coordination with Faith Community Center. Each child is assigned a trained clinician (or two, in Ian's case) and they work with the child for an hour in the pool and an another hour in the gym each evening. Ian had great clinicians and I'm sure you can imagine that he absolutely loved going each week! Of course, the swimming was his favorite part!

Ian with Sean and Sarah - awesome Purdue students!

On a totally different note, Ian has had a communication device for this entire school year. He has "outgrown" it and is very ready to move on. So, we had an AAC evaluation at Easter Seals Crossroads in Indy this week and he will be moving to an actual computer that has many, many selections for him to choose from in order to communicate. The gal that did the eval was convinced that he has so much locked up in that head of his (which we already knew!) and this will help him be able to express it. She was also impressed by how motivated he was to to use and learn the devices. It will take LOTS of support from a speech therapist and work on his and our parts, but we are excited about the possibilities for him. He got to try out several different devices at Crossroadsd and loved them all! The very sad part was explaining to him that we had to leave them all there and wait for paperwork to be done, insurance to be filed, etc, etc. He actually cried, which is quite rare for him and made me cry, too. He should have a rental in 1-2 months and will use that for a period of time to be sure it's the right device for him. The cost is outrageous so we don't want to make a mistake!

This is what he's been using:

And, this is similar to the one he will have:

Exciting stuff!!!!

Springtime in the Humphrey Woods

2011-04-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Terrible picture (I need a lens with more zoom!) but the Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks are back!!!

The weeds are flourishing, too!

And the rain continues.......

The normally small creek is now a raging river!

So thankful for God's beautiful creation and the joys of living in the midst of it.....even with all the rain!

Easter

2011-04-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

I wish I had pictures of our 3 youngest, handsome boys in their Eater finery, but 1) we aren't quite used to getting everyone ready and out the door on time, let alone saving time for pictures and 2) we aren't allowed to post pictures of the newest Humphrey men. Nor did I get any pictures of Mimi, Pa or Mamma who joined us for dinner and an Easter egg hunt. However, I did manage to get some of Brenna and her mommy and daddy. (For pictures of both our beyond-beautiful grandaughters in their special Easter dresses, visit their blogs.)

Drew got to take Ian and Brenna for a ride in the golf cart.

Brenna loves her mommy and.....

her daddy!

checking out Uncle Ian's nappy hair

Pops and Brenna, who is eating a plastic egg

We are thankful that we could celebrate Easter with part of our family, but mostly we are thankful for the cross and what it means to us! He is risen, indeed!!!

Birthday Girl!!

2011-04-21T03:23:00.000-07:00

People have been telling us for years that having grandchildren is awesome and amazing and the best thing ever and we believed every word......until one year ago today. Then, we found out that they didn't even begin to describe what it's like to be grandparents! When we held that precious little bundle for the first time, we just melted and couldn't believe she was finally here and she was our grandaughter! Words can't describe it - you have to experience it.
Happy Birthday, Olivia Grace! What a blessing and gift from God you are!! We have enjoyed every minute of this past year; watching you grow and learn so many new things and we are looking forward to the years to come and all the adventures we will share.

Happy 1st Birthday, sweet Olivia!!!

We love you!!

Grammy and Pops

6 months!

2011-04-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this little cutie is 6 months old already! Happy 6 months, Brenna Noelle!! What a joy you are! We love you and are so thankful to be your grandparents!

Yes, there's more....

2011-04-13T17:53:00.000-07:00

....more pictures from Olivia's birthday weekend.

Chillin' with Pops

You can't make me smile!

Oh, alright....anything to get this lady to leave me alone!

These pictures were after she had a bath and got her second wind.

My favorite!

And, poor Ian wasn't completely neglected. He got to swim with Dad and Pa and had a blast!

Mimi and Pheobe were worn out by the end of the day....as was the birthday girl!

First Birthday Party!

2011-04-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

We made a quick trip to Memphis this weekend for Olivia's first birthday party and she gave us much cause for being thankful we made the trip (not that we even considered missing it.) Her birthday isn't until April 21, but this was the best weekend for her daddy's crazy schedule.

Apparently, all little girls in the south wear tutus on their first birthday, so Lindsay made her a pink one (of course) and appliqued a pink gingham "O" on her shirt. She looked adorable and didn't let the tutu get in her way of crawling, climbing, standing or even taking a few steps! It was very difficult to narrow down the pictures but here are a few from the party.

Sweet birthday girl (with her ever-present drink)

Olivia loves her doggies! (and, her Daddy of course!)

The pile of presents looked like something that should be climbed

Reading a new book (the girl loves books and being read to!)

The shoes didn't last long

Checking out the new Raggedy Ann

Of course, we HAD to get her a horse!

Pushing her new stroller and baby

After a nap, the birthday girl was ready for Memphis bar-b-que. Yum!

She loves it!

The adoring fans!!

Adorable....even with bar-b-que sauce all over her face!

Lucy and Gus, wishing they could get in on the bar-b-que (notice their scarves that match Olivia's "O" on her shirt.)

Famous Muddy's cupcakes - Yum, Yum!!

Singing "Happy Birthday" and grabbing for the candle

Let the cupcake demolition begin....

She did a pretty good job of cleaning it all up, even licking the plate!

Thank you, Olivia, for inviting us to your party and for all your sweet smiles and hugs and giggles. We love you so very much and are so thankful you are our grandaughter!!

Ag Day

2011-04-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

Ian's class attended Ag Day today at the fairgrounds and he had a blast!! The animals were fun, but the tractors were amazing!! There were 18 stations with lots of information about clean water, corn, rabbits, corn, chickens, corn, things made from corn, crops, corn....you get the picture. (We do live in Indiana, after all!) Anyway, at these informational booths, Ian would continually try to sneak away and head toward the tractors, quietly wheeling his chair in their direction and hoping the adults wouldn't notice.

I couldn't even get him to look at the camera because he was too interested in the tractor and planter.

Ian and his buddy, Hunter, under the John Deere sprayer.

What a BIG tire!!!

Petting a calf

Meeting the Clydesdale horse

Class picture

Fun Day!!!

Court Jester

2011-04-05T03:33:00.000-07:00

Most of Ian's hats belong to his principal and he returns them the day after he wears them home. However, a friend of ours recently found a hat that she thought was perfect for Ian. So, this one is his to keep and he loves it! We think it fits him perfectly because he always makes us smile and laugh!! I was at his school yesterday and the nurse told me that she just loves Ian and that he has such a great sense of humor. We get to experience that humor every day. What a blessing!!!

Gina, thanks for thinking of Ian on your shopping trip!!!

And, speaking of hats....

Brenna got a new hat, too!

With sound this time.

2011-04-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

You have to hear the squeals along with the actions! I don't know why there wasn't any sound on the first try. See following post....

Ian's Big Surprise

2011-04-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Because we are blessed to live on 5 beautiful, wooded acres with an awesome creek and even a decent sized hill and because Ian absolutely loves being outside and because we love being outside, too, we have wanted some way to transport him around the property so he could enjoy it. So, we've been looking and talking about how to do that for over a year and finally took the plunge. Tom got a golf cart this week and borrowed a trailer to go pick it up. Ian knew he was coming home with a surprise and he knew that the trailer left with Dad, but he didnt' know exactly what was coming. He was excited beyond belief!!

Of course, we had to take it for a spin, even though it was quite chilly!

What Empty Nest????

2011-03-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

The big news in the Humphrey household is that there are going to be 2 more of us!! Two brothers, ages 9 and 6 will begin transitioning to our family this week and will be full-time Humphrey kids by early summer. We aren't able to share names or post pictures yet and probably won't until the adoption is complete, but suffice it to say that they are cuties.
We feel so blessed to be used of God to provide a loving, safe home for these boys and look forward to what He has in store for all of us! Ian is very excited to have more brothers but is a bit confused since they aren't living here yet and will be very sad when they have to leave every weekend.
Everyone asks how this happened and the best answer is one word: God! His heart for the fatherless is so very clear in His Word and He has given us an increasing burden for children in the foster system who are older, and therefore considered 'unadoptable'. We have been licensed foster parents for over 2 years, but have never had a placement for one reason or another. The logistics just never worked out. So, we began praying in earnest about the possibility of adopting. We believe God has directed this decision and are looking forward to how Ian might be a blessing to these boys and they a blessing to him. The road will not be easy, but we are committed to making this a 'forever home' for these boys who have been through some rough times.

Spring Break

2011-03-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

Ian is on spring break this week so we are taking advantage of the time and doing some fun stuff. Yesterday, we went to Danville with Elizabeth and Brenna to visit Mamma (my 90 year young grandmother, Ian's great-grandmother and Brenna's great-great-grandmother.)

Today, we went bowling with Ian's good friend, Drew Bear and out to lunch. Fun, Fun!!!

Tomorrow, we might stay home......maybe.

We're back!!!!

2011-03-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

I finally have the blog working again and did several posts to catch up! Check it out! And....keep watching. We have some exciting news coming up. :-)

Weekend in TC

2011-03-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

We had the awesome privilege of going to Traverse City last weekend to visit some dear friends who moved there last year against God's will. Just kidding!!! We miss them but know they are serving right where God wants them - as associate pastor (Ben, that is) of an awesome church. They also happen to be the son and daughter-in-law of our pastor and his wife. We all drove up together (with Ian in the back pointing out every semi we passsed and reminding us to put our seat belts on constatnly). Tom and Don spent time with the leadership of the church at a retreat, Don spoke Sunday morning and then, Tom and I got to share our Ian Adoption Story. What a blessing it was for us to recall all the ways God worked in bringing Ian into our family and some of the many ways he continues to be such a blessing to all of us.

Ian, playing the piano at Ben and Janet's

Ben and Ian, playing a duet. Ian was absolutely beside himself when Ben started playing a jazzy tune with him!

Latest addition to the Whipple family is little Micah, who is adorable!

Those eyes will melt anyone!

Isaac entertained us by singing "I've got the joy, joy, joy...."and dancing - soooo cute!!

Isaac and Daddy, Ben

BWhips - all 4 of them!

Babysitting Brenna

2011-03-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

Tom and I just never cease to marvel at the fact that God has given us the 2 most beautiful grandaughters in the universe! I just can't seem to get enough of either of them. And, thankfully, they are both used to having a camera stuck in their face. I was able to get some "Brenna time" last week and of course, had to get the camera out. She is a sweetie and so very patient while Grammy takes picture after picture!!

This one is my favorite

Problems at School

2011-03-25T20:15:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile ago now, but we've had some issues with the school lately. Ian jumped so high one day that he got his head stuck in the basketball net and he had to wear it home.

On another day, they sent the wrong child home. Billy Bob (with long, brown, curly hair) got off the bus instead of Ian.

The next day, we got a wizard!

and, this was our happy St. Patrick's day boy with the hat that one of the paras at school gave him.

I just never know what I'll find when I open that bus door!

China

2011-03-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

Tom had to go to China on business a couple weeks ago for 9 loooonnnnnggggg days but to make the time easier for Ian, he recorded messages for him to listen to each morning and evening. Ian loved them and we had to listen over and over and over and...... His favorite was on Sunday morning when Tom started the message by singing to him.

We went to the airport to pick him up and Ian was anxious for him to get off that plane!

He made a sign at school to take to the airport and one for the door at home.

A DAD sighting!!!!!

We were both very thankful when he got back on American soil and we could take him home!!!!

Issues

2011-03-22T06:10:00.001-07:00

I'm having issues with my blogger account. When I get it figured out, I will have several posts! I know you're all waiting with baited breath!

Happy 3rd Anniversary!

2011-03-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

On March 8, 2008, Elizabeth officially became part of our family. I like to think I had something to do with it because Drew called home from college one evening and asked my advice (a very rare occurrence!) about asking her out. I told him, "Of course you should ask her out!!!!!" However, we all know God had it planned all along and we are so thankful for it!

At DePauw

At our old house - summer of 2007 (?)

After graduation celebration

Crested Butte, CO - it's a wonder she married him after spending a week with all of us!

No explanation necessary

Christmas 2009

Thanksgiving 2010

And, the very best part of our kids getting married is that besides adding more children to our family, we get GRANDCHILDREN!!!!

Happy Anniversary, Drew and Elizabeth!! We love you!!

Mom and Dad/Tom and Angela

Ronald and Ian

2011-03-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

We don't usually go to McDonald's because there isn't much that Ian can eat. However, last Saturday we met friends at a McDonald's that has a play area and Ian was captivated at watching the kids crawl around the tubes and tunnels. This lifesized Ronald McDonald fascinated him and he desperately wanted to sit on his lap. It turns out that it was a perfect fit for him and was positioned in a way that allowed him to sit without additional support from us.

Hats....Yes, there are more!

2011-02-28T06:24:00.000-08:00

Hats from last week......

Our Russian czar

Some kind of ball that has been altered to become a hat and wouldn't stay above his eyes

A cow, complete with cow bells dangling

and the elephant

Several people have asked if Ian keeps all of these hats and I need to clarify that no, he wears them back the next day and loves showing them off to the morning bus drivers. (This morning, he was bouncing around and making elephant noises - Ian style-for the ladies on the bus.) Mr. Pinto is known for his silly hats and it's become such a fun game with him and Ian.

Fun with Mom-mom and Dad-dad

2011-02-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

We picked Ian up from school on Thursday and headed to Memphis, via Falls of Rough, KY (home of Mom-mom and Dad-dad). They decided he needed a Kentucky Wildcats shirt and of course, his dad heartily agreed! Tom set Ian in their Suburban while he was loading our van and Ian was sure that he was going to drive it to Memphis with Mom-mom beside him and Dad-dad in the back seat.

Ian's KY shirt and Mom-mom's Grace College shirt (grandson Michael plays basketball and tennis at Grace)

Keep reading....I did 4 posts at once!

Bath time and Play time

2011-02-22T14:00:00.001-08:00

Olivia has always loved her bath and would stay there until she was shriveled up if her parents would let her.

This is what she does when she sees the camera!

Playing with Pops

Interested in the glasses

Crawling over Ian (which he loves!)

More fun with the grandpa!

Cutie Pie!

Mommy's monkey

Keep reading.....

Memphis Zoo

2011-02-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday was a beautiful day (sunny and in the upper 60's) so we all headed to the zoo when Troy got home (after working at the hospital for 30-some hours). Who would have thought that Memhis would have such a great zoo?!

Ian pointing at the tigers (see below)

Ian really wanted to drive Olivia's stroller!

Cutest monkey at the zoo - or any zoo, for that matter!

This oranguatan was sporting a very lovely cape

Both Ian and Olivia were fascinated by the waterfall and didn't care to look at the camera!

Ian was worn out after the big day and Gus was keeping him company.
Keep reading.....

Sunday in the Park

2011-02-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

After church on Sunday and a delicious Memphis barbeque lunch (where Ian and Olivia gave the adults a run for their money in the eating department), we headed to a park that is near Lindsay and Troy's house. It was a warm, sunny 77 degrees and felt wonderful!!!!

Dad and Ian going down the slide

Miss Olivia loves the swing!

Mom and Ian

Olivia and Grammy

Olivia loves watching herself on a video.

Tired girl eating her supper

All cleaned up and revived after her bath

Playing with Daddy and Phoebe

Sweet, happy girl!

Good night! We love you, Olivia (and Troy and Lindsay) and will see you soon!!

A happy leprechaun and a happy baby...

2011-02-16T15:01:00.000-08:00

To all of my adoring fans.....

2011-02-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

I love you all!!!

Ian

Smiley Face

2011-02-10T03:56:00.000-08:00

Two smiling faces got off the bus yesterday!

Cheeseburger Head

2011-02-09T03:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Ian got off the bus, sporting a cheeseburger on his head and thinking it was hilarious. Interestingly, his principal tried to give him a turkey hat and he flat out refused it - kept throwing it on the ground. I guess he doesn't want to be a turkey! But, a cheeseburger - now, that's altogether different!

And.....this would be the day that Brenna's Grammy gave her a nasty cold! Needless to say, Grammy feels way worse that she shared it with Brenna than she felt with the cold. Praying you feel better soon, Brenna!

First Date

2011-02-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

34 years ago today, I went out with the best looking guy on Purdue's campus and I was only a lowly high school junior. We went to a Danville basketball game (his brother was playing) and he wore gray pants with a quiana (remember that??) shirt and had a big comb handle sticking out of his back pocket. After the game, we went to Pizza Hut and talked for hours. 34 years later......wow! He's still the best looking guy anywhere and the best father and husband in the world!!!

This picture is 2-1/2 years later when we got engaged.

Ice Cream

2011-01-31T06:01:00.000-08:00

My favorite ice cream flavor happens to be Chocolate Chip Mint and look what got off the bus on Friday! The best ice cream cone ever!!!!

Crazy Hats

2011-01-27T06:26:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned Ian's crazy principal before but I'm not sure if I've mentioned that he apparently has a hat fetish. He must own every kind of unique hat that anyone has ever dreamed up. He gave Ian an elf hat in December and wanted him to wear it every day until Christmas break. Now, Ian comes home with a different hat every day and just thinks it's hilarious. Sadly, I haven't taken pictures of all of them, but here are a few. As you can imagine, Ian LOVES this thing they have going and whenever he sees Mr. Pinto, he points to his head and wants his hat. We are so thankful to be at a school with a crazy principal who is crazy about Ian!

Tom's caption for this one is "This chicken layed an Ian!"

King Ian

This was a Hershey Kiss, complete with the paper streamer coming out of the top.

Keep reading - I did 2 posts at once. (It's either feast or famine with me :-)

Sweetness!

2011-01-27T06:25:00.000-08:00

Brenna Noelle is growing and changing so fast! She is "talking" a lot and smiling and rolling over. What a blessing and a joy our grandaughters are!

This one is few weeks old, but I don't think I posted it and I just love it!

Queen Brenna (as her daddy calls her) sitting in her throne.

"Babysitting" Brenna

2011-01-12T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ian was out of school today due to snow and I already had plans to visit Miss Brenna, so he went along to help babysit. Elizabeth lets me think I'm coming to help her out but mostly I just go to play with Brenna. Anyway, this crazy grandma rarely leaves the camera behind when her grandchildren are around because after all, they are the most adorable babies that God ever created and I feel the need to share them with the world! So...enjoy these pictures of sweet Brenna and I will soon go to Memphis to take some of Olivia!

Hat Night

2011-01-10T17:37:00.000-08:00

Tom is at a meeting tonight and for some reason unknown to me, Ian insisted that we wear hats while we ate our dinner. (Of course, we've been known to wear napkins on our heads throughout dinner at Ian's bidding.) Funny kid!!!

The reason he's laughing so hysterically is because he was belching. Lovely.

For the Grandparents

2011-01-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

For Ian's birthday and Christmas, we asked the grandparents to contribute to the purchase of a joystick for Ian to use with the computer. It acts as a mouse and allows him to do all kinds of activities on the computer, which he LOVES! He has one at school, but we really wanted him to be able to use it at home as we strongly believe that technology will be Ian's friend as he learns to communicate. Of course they obliged and and we were able to present him with a very special gift on Christmas day. He was very excited and insisted on using it immediately. Although we knew he used one at school, we hadn't witnessed it, so we were amazed at what he can do with it. I took video of him opening it and using it, but can't get them to download, so I've resorted to still shots.

Here's what it looks like

Here he is using it and concentrating

This is one of the activities he likes to do - putting an object with a similar object (The hand with the pointer finger is the cursor)

And this is what he does when he gets it right!

I can't even describe the sense of accomplishment and independence that it gives him to be able to manipulate and use the computer. So.....all you grandparents (and anyone else!) just need to come see how valuable this little (ridiculously expensive) device is and how much Ian loves it. If he could, he would tell you how much he appreciates it! It is a gift that will keep on giving for years and years and have a lasting impact on his ability to learn.

Thank you Mom-mom, Dad-dad, Mimi, Pa and Mamma!!!

from Ian

I love you!

Christmas

2010-12-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

Olivia and her Daddy - the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!

What are you guys doing up there?

Lindsay and Olivia with the cross stitched quilt that her Great-Great Mamma made for her.

Sweet Brenna hanging out with Daddy

Ian's new gig

Olivia showing Uncle Ian everything this thing can do

Olivia's new headband

Merry Christmas, Brenna!

Checking out her new activity mat

The theme for Ian's Christmas was NOISE!!! Besides the guitar (thanks, Mimi and Pa!) and this very noisy chain saw (thank you Lindsay and Troy!), he got a Paper Jamz drum set, which he very much enjoys banging on, along with the music that comes with it (thank you Elizabeth and Drew!)

Brenna Noelle

Brenna and Dad-dad

Olivia, after 3 of her 4 Christmas celebrations

Olivia and Mommy

Brenna and Great-Great Mamma

Weekend Happenings

2010-12-21T03:28:00.000-08:00

We had the privilege of hosting our church's high school youth group last Friday evening for the entree of their progressive dinner. We were struck by 2 things: how much they ate (after already devouring appetizers and soup and salad) and more importantly, the focus on and worship of the gospel through Scripture reading and singing.

A dear friend watched Ian on Saturday so we could do some shopping for him, so we braved the traffic which was frustrating to say the least, but we managed to get some surprises that we're pretty sure he'll like. Saturday evening, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner with Drew, Elizabeth and Brenna to celebrate Tom's birthday. On Sunday evening, we had our small group families over for a fun and delicious Christmas dinner. Two of the ladies made and filled stockings for all the children, which was so very exciting! Here are the girls with the aprons that they got.

More stocking opening....

And here is our Jamaican king with his new nerf gun and football which he is completely obsessed with.

I have this thing about frost - it fascinates me! Sunday morning we woke up to a beautiful winter wonderland of ice crystals everywhere! It was breathtaking!

I always try to capture it with the camera but can't come close. What a wonderful reminder of our amazing Creator and the beauty He gives us to enjoy!

Sweet!

2010-12-18T18:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday

2010-12-17T06:38:00.000-08:00

I can't let this day go by without wishing the love of my life a very happy birthday! I hate that it usually gets squeezed in between the Christmas craziness, but he never complains. I have no idea why God chose to bless me with this wonderful man, but I couldn't love him more (although maybe that's not true because I seem to love him more every day!) He has taught me so much over the last 30+ years. His personal mission statement is simple: "love God and love people." He is the Godly leader of our home and loves me unconditionally - in spite of my faults and quirks. He is an awesome father and grandfather. I feel blessed beyond measure when I reflect on our years together and the ways that God has grown us as individuals and as a couple.

Happy, happy birthday, Tom!!!! I love you!!!

Babysitting Brenna

2010-12-14T13:14:00.000-08:00

Tom, Ian and I got to babysit Brenna for a little while last weekend and of course, that means Grammy brings her camera. She's getting so big and changing all the time! I'm sure she said "Grammy" one day last week and is smiling lots.

Go Boilers!

Hanging out with Uncle Ian who....

loves her and....

is fascinated by her feet!

Sweet girl!

Olivia Visit

2010-12-07T17:58:00.000-08:00

Warning: If you read Lindsay's blog, you might want to stop reading this one now because they are pretty much the same. Tom, Ian and I headed to Memphis for a quick visit (way too short) and had a wonderful time with Olivia and her parents. She is growing and changing so much each time we see her and developing quite the personality. We tried to convince Lindsay and Troy that they should let her come home with us until Christmas but it didn't work. I think we're going to wear grooves in the road between here and there before the next 5 years is over!

So big! She's not interested in crawling but loves to stand.

The weather was beeeeaaaauuuutiful (in the 60's) and Drew texted on Saturday to say that Lafayette was getting snow!

Playing with Uncle Ian

Uncle Ian loves his nieces!

Awwwww!

Proud grandparents

Watching a DVD together
I did 2 posts at once so keep reading.....

90th Birthday Bash!

2010-12-07T17:13:00.000-08:00

On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, we celebrated my grandmother's 90th birthday at the Mayberry Cafe. Her children shared stories of their childhood, we took a history quiz based on her life and the grandchildren put together a scrapbook of pictures and memories for her.

Happy 90th Birthday, Mamma

Ian was very proud of the finger painting he made for Mamma, especially when everyone oohed and aahhed over it.

Mamma and Me (not many people who are my age are blessed to have a grandparent still around to enjoy! I'm very thankful!!)

The youngest (Brenna) and the oldest family members

We took many more pictures; children (with and without spouses, grandchildren with and without spouses, great grandchildren, male cousins, male cousins with gray hair, etc. - you get the idea) but I'll spare you all those, thanks to my very slow computer.

It was a great time of celebrating a dear life that we are all so thankful for.

Filling Out

2010-11-30T04:00:00.000-08:00

All during the past year, folks would mention to us that Ian looks like he is filling out. It's hard for us to see since we are with him all the time, but we do realize it when we lift him. A year ago, at his first trip to the Riley CP clinic, he weighed 48 lbs and we were thrilled because that was up from where he was when we brought him home in Sept. Well.......I took him to get Botox injections yesterday and they had to weigh him so they could figure the exact dosage. 74.5 lbs!!!! Yes, he's filling out and growing up!

Happy Thanksgivng!

2010-11-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

I had a meaninful Thanksgiving post written in my head but alas, it never made it to the computer keyboard so I'll save it for another time. In the meantime, we wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving, remembering the many blessings God has so graciously bestowed upon us, most importantly His Son!!!

Brenna Noelle

2010-11-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

Brenna is growing and changing daily so it's time for an update. She is 5 weeks old and weighs over 9 lbs and is starting to "talk" and smile, although not usually when I have a camera stuck in her face. Everyone has told us for years that grandchildren are the greatest blessing and boy, were they right! What a joy!!!!

This one was about a week ago.

Hanging out with Uncle Ian

Mesmerized by the swing

Trying to stay awake and talk to Papa Grande

Grammy is always trying to get me to smile!

Yay! A smile for the camera!

Grandparents Day

2010-11-16T06:24:00.000-08:00

Last Friday was Grandparents Day at Ian's school. Because it was the day after Veteran's Day, they celebrated both at the same time. As we stood to say the pledge and sing our national anthem, I was struck by so many firsts for Ian. First, Ian has 4 grandparents and a even a great grandmother which is something that has been missing from his life until God brought him into our family. Second, this is the first opportunity for him to be involved in any kind of school performance and of course, he ate it up. Third, during the last year, Ian not only has become part of a new family, school, church, culture, etc, but he also has a new country. We intend to be sure he always knows and appreciates his Jamaican heritage, but the fact is that he is an American!

Tom's parents weren't able to make the trip and my mom was out of town, so my dad (Pa) and grandmother (Mamma) came to celebrate with us. Mamma even won the "oldest grandparent" award and when she said that she was Ian Humphrey's great grandmother, all the kids cheered and Ian was so excited!

I have a great video of Ian trying to do the motions to a song with the kids, but I've tried for 4 days to get it to download and am finally giving up. So, I hope you enjoy the pictures instead...

Before the program began

Saying the pledge to the American flag with his hand over his heart

Honoring those who have served our country. That's my dad in the center who served in the Air Force before and during the Vietnam War.

Hunter taking care of Ian during the program by dabbing the drool that he can't control. Precious!

Mamma, Ian and Pa - thanks for coming and for taking us to lunch, too! We love and appreciate you both!

5 Generations X 2

2010-11-09T05:50:00.000-08:00

While Lindsay and Olivia were in Indiana to meet Brenna, we were able to get some 5 generation pictures. What a blessing!

Lindsay, Mamma, Daddy (aka Pa), me and Olivia

This time with new daddy, Drew and baby Brenna

We also took the opportunity to take a "4 generations of ladies" picture with my mom.

So thankful for God's provision of and plan for families!