Russia Revisited

Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. 

Joshua 1:9

It has been ten years since we stood in the Cheboksary Judge's court room and listened to her
read the Resolution declaring Robert and Katherine Sanford the legal and binding parents of
William Alexander Sanford, Peter Sergei Sanford, Adrianna Ludmila Sanford, and Zachary Ivan Sanford at 8:45 A.M. on Wednesday, November 12, 2003.

Here is a bit of the exciting story of our becoming a family of 13 those many years ago...
  
In April 2003, we went to learn more details regarding a Russian hosting program. During the presentation, in response to Bob's question, we found out that there would be very little additional cost to adopting more than one child, so he asked to look at photos. When he saw the photo of this sibling group the Lord spoke to heart saying, "If you do not adopt them, no one will." He knew then and there these were his children. We learned later that if they had not been adopted through the hosting program that year, they were going to be split-up. Only the twins, Luda and Vanya, would be available for adoption. Sasha and Sergei would be taken off the adoption registry. 

Their pictures were displayed on our refrigerator for months while we waited for August to come. 

Finally the day arrived, the four children were here for the ten-day hosting program.

The very next day we spoke at a Lifesong for Orphans adoption conference regarding adoption older children. It is something we know a little about. :-)

The 10 days went by very quickly. We all had a wonderful time. The children learned a little English and we learned useful Russian phrases like "moy rookie" = 'wash your hands'. Never in that time did we talk about their being adopted, as it was not allowed, but we think they suspected.

All too soon it was time for the children to go back and our for paperwork to be processed.

Finally, the call came we could go to adopt our children and bring them home forever!

Friday, November 7, the plane lifted off right on time. At the moment the wheels left the soil Katherine burst into tears at the realization that she was no longer on the same soil as her precious seven children and that their separation was complete for a time. 'Have I not commanded thee? Be strong....' ran through her heart as her husband prayed fervently for her spirit to be at peace. This would not be the last time this verse would serve to keep us at peace.

We landed in Russia a half-hour late due to a hold in Zurich, Switzerland at 4:00 on Sat. Nov 8th. Walking down the gangplank Katherine spoke to lighten the mood 'We're not in Kansas anymore, Toto!' We both laughed a nervous laugh. All six of our bags arrived with us which was answer to prayer number 2. Number 1 was that we would arrive safely in Russia, which we did, just very tired.

After going through Customs, where we were not even questioned or looked at funny, we meet our driver. Much to our delight it was Dima. His name and reputation proceeds him as any family who had him as their driver in Moscow just loved him. We had been told in the USA that our driver was to be someone else, so we marveled at the blessing of getting the 'famed' Dima.

On the way to Oxanna's flat, our hostess for our stay in Moscow, we picked up Katya who has been the translator of all of our documents. After arriving at Oxanna's and seeing our room, Katya took the big amount of cash we had to carry on our person. But before leaving she wanted to ask us some questions regarding English words. So what is the difference between slap, punch, hit, spank, whack, smack, (and a couple others I cannot remember)? It was fun exploring our language with her.

Oxanna is an awesome cook and after a very filling dinner, she and Dima took us on a tour of Moscow looking primarily at the architecture, and actually stopped to have us walk on Red Square. It was great seeing the city at night all lit up like Chicago, but with little sleep on the plane we mostly wanted to go to bed. Yet our hostess and driver would not hear of it until we had had some Moscow Ice Cream. It was very good, but more so was the sleep that followed.

On Sunday, November 9, we spent the morning at the Moscow Flea Market, then went to a Electronic Mall to get some Russian videos, DVD's and music cassette tapes for the children, along with a trip to the local market (grocery) to get some candies. Back to Oxanna's for dinner, a rest, then off to the train station.

Before boarding the train at 6:00 P.M. for the overnight trip we meet Marina, our adoption coordinator, and Natasha, our translator for court. Marina shared with us right away that our four children are so excited about our coming and that they have been begging her for weeks to let them know when it would be. Answer to prayer number 3. Of course she was unable to tell them anything for sure except to be patient. But our hearts nearly burst with joy that they wanted us to come! For when they left us in August they were very stoic and we were not sure of their hearts. And since the oldest had to go to court and state for the court whether he wanted to be adopted or not, this news from Marina squelched all our fears. They wanted us!

We did not sleep much on the train. As the sun came up we were able to see the country side. When we saw the first set of 15 or so houses we thought it was a small children's park that had been abandoned, but when we came upon the next group we realized these were people's homes each about the size of a medium shed. It was a bit shocking and humbling. We arrived in Cheboksary at 8:00 A.M., went directly to the hotel and settled into our suite of two bedrooms flanking a nice size sitting area with frig., TV, and couch with a large window in all three rooms. It was much nicer then we ever expected, especially the bathrooms.

THE MOMENT WE WERE WAITING FOR! At 11:30 we got into two taxies (the size and style of an old Volvo) to go the Cheboksary Children's Home. Bob was riding up front in Sergei's taxi, the second vehicle. Katherine was in the back with the video camera ready to go. As we drove up to the home, a boy came running across the road to go into the building between the two taxies. Before entering he turned and looked at the second car. The look on his face was priceless! The boy was Sergei (Peter) and he saw his Papa. Bob stepped out of the car and Sergei ran into his arms. It was awesome! Then Bob spied a boy sweeping up leaves in front of the first taxi. He called Sasha's name and a smile spread across the boy's face. Sasha (William) was more shy about coming up to us, which had us wondering (but he melted all those concerns later). Both boys went to eat lunch and we were escorted to Nina's office. Shortly after getting settled and sharing some news about a little boy named Anton from the same orphanage, and adopted by our good friends in August, the door opened and a bright faced little girl bounded into the room running into her Papa's arms. Her giggles and huge smiles told all in the room this child was delighted to see us. Luda (Adrianna) then went to get her brothers. Vanya (Zachary) followed her in, his face radiating with his smile. He snuggled in to our hugs, warming our hearts, as he was not as affectionate when in America. In came Sergei again and we asked where is Sasha, so they all went to get him. The three returned saying he is looking for something. To our great amusement and joy, he finally comes wearing the jacket which we had sent with him back to Russia. So he did remember and did want us.

Once we had all the children in the room, Katherine asked through the translator, so do you want to be adopted by us and go to America? We watched their faces as the translator spoke and the smiles that spread on all their faces told us volumes before we heard their four collective and hardy 'DA's!' meaning yes! Answer to pray number 4. The translator-Natasha, the coordinator-Marina, the inspector-Valentina, and the orphanage director-Nina talked a bit more as we took some pictures of the children, then all 10 of us loaded into those two taxies to go back to the hotel for lunch and more visiting.

Upon arrival we first took the children up to our hotel room to change their clothes, and to give them their gifts. Each child received a backpack full of toys, coloring things, and their watches that they had bought when in America and left for us to bring. When we joined the other four ladies for lunch, we were in for another blessing. Our four children would not eat until Bob prayed. They had remembered that that was our way. It did make the others a little uncomfortable, but we think it was a good sign to them as well.  After a very filling meal everyone came up to our room so that they could see the children's gifts. Luda also had fun showing Nina and Valentina the picture album of their visit to America. We do not know when it happened, but Valentina fell in love with our little family that day and became a dear friend to us while we were there. She was an important figure in advocating our adoption before the Judge, which we also learned was a good friend of hers. It was precious to us to hear Valentina stand before the Judge in court and tell of how Luda had showed her pictures of this family and named off all the children as if she had just been with them. Time had not dimmed Luda's memory of her soon-to-be siblings in America.

After a light dinner, Marina and Natasha came to our room to discuss the court with us. This is also the time when they told our children that we would like to give them new names when we adopt them and explained to them why we picked the name we did. All four children loved their names and the reasons. After more talk they left and we all went to bed. When the children finally fell asleep they rested peacefully. We on the other hand had a restless sleep. For the next day was Court!

The room was large with many rows of seats for spectators, but there were only seven of us waiting for the Judge to enter. The court reporter, prosecutor, Nina, Valentina, Natasha-our translator and lifeline to all who spoke Russian, Bob and Katherine. Bob could not help but notice that he was the only male in the group. The door opened, we stood, and in walked the 5' tall, 100 lb, 38 yr old, no children, black robed JUDGE! Her slow steady walk with high heels echoing sent chills to our spine. 'Have I not commanded thee? Be strong....' After some formalities, Bob stood to deliver to the court our family information and the request for our adoption of the four Pavlov Siblings. The prosecutor then took a turn at questioning him. Her biggest questions were is your income steady, what do you do on 700 sq meters of land (in other words, are the children being adopted for hard labor on a farm?!), and since many of our pictures have us all dressed alike, is that something all our children agree to or is it forced? To which he answered, "The T-shirts were very inexpensive and it gave us a way to keep track of all the children in public. It also gave all the children a since of unity as family, and everyone who saw us could not tell the difference between the American or Russian children until they spoke!"

Katherine's turn was next to talk about being the mother of 11 children and all that would entail. It was a short speech to Bob's long one. Now the questions were directed to learn more about American adoptions, which we had done four years ago, homeschooling, and managing a home with a large family. We later learned that the Judge was so interested in us as a family that this line of questioning caused her to lose all track of time and our morning court time ran over. We broke for lunch, which we had with the children at the hotel. Then back to court in a smaller room, were Nina and Valentina gave their reports about our children.

During this time, Marina took our four children to have their passport photos done and to deliver Sasha and Sergei to court for them to testify. Sasha came in shy but strong and answered the Judges questions. Which in the course of these questions he stated yes he knew who we were and our names Bob and Katherine. The Judge said, 'Bob? Who is Bob!' Natasha told her that Robert is Bob. It was cute. In response to another of the Judge's questions, Sasha told her that he chose to call us Mama and Papa when in America and no one made him do it. She asked if he wanted to change his name and he said 'Yes.' She also told him that he had to obey the laws of his new State (USA) and his parents. And that his parents will punish him if he does wrong, how did he feel about that? He said he was ok with that, but that he did not plan to do anything wrong. How we smiled at that one!! Sasha sat down and then Sergei came in. His little heart was so overwhelmed. The Judge started asking questions which he answered slowly, Valentina tried to encourage him. But when the Judge asked if he was going to be able to learn English, he just stood there for what seemed an eternity then burst into tears and ran out our the court room. Bless the Judge's heart, she called an immediate recess, walked out of the room, then we both burst out of the door to grab Sergei up and calm his heart with hugs and kisses. Sasha was right there with us. Sergei calmed down, hung on to Bob, sitting as close as he could to him for the rest of court. He did need to answer a few more questions which he did well.

The Prosecutor then stood to give her finally report and recommendation that this adoption should proceed, but that our situation was not extra-ordinary, and therefore she recommended that the 10-day waiting period not be waived. To which Nina jumped up and declared to the Judge that this was indeed extra-ordinary and that having the children wait 10 days in the orphanage would totally destroy her schedule, break these four children's hearts, and hurt the hearts of the children in the orphanage who would see this Mama and Papa everyday reminding them of what they do not have. Valentina jumped up right behind that and stated her reasons for believing that ours was extra-ordinary and that this added stress would also not benefit the children. Then Bob spoke his closing words, "I know the final decision rests in the Judge's hands, and even after everything that was said today in court our resolve to adopt the four Pavlov Siblings has not lessened but has only strengthened. And no matter the final decision regarding the 10-day waiting period we were prepared to do what it took to adopt these children." Katherine mainly stated that ,"Although our children shed no tears with our coming to Russia to adopt their new siblings, they did shed tears thinking that we would not return in a timely matter. And that I had not been away from my two six year olds since they were adopted four years ago and they needed me to come home to them as soon as possible."

The Prosecutor tried to pull one more rabbit out of her hat. She asked the Judge if a copy of the LSS Adoption Agency's Accreditation Letter on file with the Russia government was in our dossier. Which is was not. It has never been asked for in court in the 9 years that LSS has been working adoption in Chuvashia. Natasha ran out of the court room called Marina who said it would be faxed right away. The Judge closed court at 4:55 P.M. stating if that copy was not on her desk by 8:15 A.M. tomorrow this adoption would not proceed. 'Have I not commanded thee? Be strong....'

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified;

do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

We were escorted out of the courtroom as the building was being shut down for the night, 5:00 sharp! Since we did not totally understand everything that was going on because of the language barrier, we felt confused and disappointed. Adoptions are only supposed to take a few hours in one day, not go into two! Why has the court sessions taken so long anyway, that we could not have finished today?And the Judge could have just asked for verbal confirmation of our Adoption Agency's license to work in Russia without needing to see an actual copy, so why did she extend the court to the next day? Were they looking for a reason to stop this adoption or hold us for the 10 days? Were we not going to be able to leave for Moscow tomorrow night? 'Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged.....'

As we walked down the Chuvashia Supreme Court House stairs holding the hands of our two older boys, we saw and heard across the parking lot two wonderful little voices calling "Mama y Papa." It was music to our ears and hearts, washing away any doubts and concerns from the day. These children know who we are, the Lord had written it on their hearts! And since He is the Supreme Judge His ruling had already been passed for that day and all we needed to do was go through the formalities of tomorrow's court.

After lots of hugs, we squeezed into the taxi to head back to the hotel to change into more comfortable clothing. Marina had made reservations for dinner at a near by restaurant which was designed and decorated to look like an authentic Chuvashia home. It was to be our celebration dinner of the finalization of our adoption, but that would have to wait. The meal was delicious and the children really enjoyed the whole event. That night the children all slept together on pallets in the main sitting area. It was precious. It was the first time they have all slept in one room in 8 years.

The next morning began early with a yogurt and juice for breakfast. Natasha greeted us in the hotel lobby waving a faxed copy of the Accreditation Letter, nothing was going to stop this adoption if she had anything to do with it, and then off we went to the Court House at 7:45 A.M. We arrived early, but the Judge now had two copies of that Letter. Court began and the Judge showed the Prosecutor the Letter, who was satisfied. Then the Judge recessed Court to convene in 20 minutes. Valentina came up to us during that time, seeing our nervousness about the 10-day waiting period, and said in broken English, "No 10-day waiting period for you."

The "all rise" was spoken and in walked the Judge, her heels once again echoing the room. She walked to the bench, remained standing and proceeded to read the Adoption Resolution. (The Prosecutor was curiously absent.) Natasha translated for us as we all stood and listened. It was quite moving to hear the Judge read the decree declaring us the legal and binding parents of these four siblings. It was touching to hear our names and the children's new names intermixed with all the Russian words. Bob reached over and grabbed Katherine's hand. But the big hand squeeze, huge smiles, and prayers of thanks came when she declared that this adoption DID have extra-ordinary circumstances and that she was waiving the 10-day waiting period. The Judge finished reading the Resolution, declared this court ended, and walked out of the room. We hugged each other then the other three ladies, Natasha, Valentina, and Nina. All was done by 9:00 A.M. Then Natasha hurried off to translate our Resolution and we headed to tell the children the good news.

As we came into the hotel the children came off the elevator hollering our names, and running into our arms. They knew it was done and they were going to America! We were a noisy bunch going back up to our room. It was then that we gave them the adoption gifts we had brought. Adrianna received a locket with Mom and Dad's pictures in it, exactly like the ones her four sisters received over 3 years ago at their adoption. William, Peter, and Zachary received dog tags with their new names and birth dates on it, just like the ones their two older brothers wear, which these three had admired in August. They all were very happy with their gifts.

At 12:30 we head to the Cheboksary Children's Home for one last visit and to deliver gifts to the children, staff, and Nina. It was such a blessing for us to be able to see were the children have lived for the last 5 years. We took pictures of them by their beds and with their caretaker. We also took lots of video of their rooms and the facility. It was not as bad as we expected and the rooms had very much of a home feeling. William was the only one to really leave a friend there. The others showed no attachment to any of the other children. Yet, we know that they were happy and well cared for by all that we saw there and how they are with us.

Back at the hotel, Valentina, Nina, Natasha, Marina, Valentina's adult daughter Lilianna, and Sasha (who was to escort us back to Moscow on the train that night) joined us for a celebration lunch in the hotel restaurant. Valentina and Nina even provided a beautiful cake to commemorate the occasion. It was a nice ending to an incredible 3 days in Cheboksary.

Back to Moscow on the 6:20 P.M. train from Cheboksary, was a much busier and louder ride then the trip out. The children were so excited and could hardly stay put. Sasha, our escort for the trip, joined us for sandwiches, yogurt, bananas, apples and water which Marina sent along with us for dinner. We learned that Sasha teaches English to children and adults. Katherine grilled him with questions for teaching ESL and Sasha was more than willing to share his techniques which he had developed. We all slept well on the sleeper beds. Papa and the boys in one room with Mama and Adrianna (along with the suitcases) in the other.

Thursday started early with Dima picking us up at the station. Breakfast was good at Oxanna's. She enjoyed meeting the children and feeding their hearty appetites. Then we loaded up and went to see the Doctor for the exit physicals. Dr. Boris was wonderful and fantastic with children. The rest of the day was spent sightseeing, visiting an underground mall and museum near the Kremlin. Peter was not feeling well and when we returned to Oxanna's he took a good nap. After another great dinner we headed to the Moscow Circus. It was like watching a one ring Barnum & Bailey Circus. The children enjoyed the monkey and apes the most.

Friday we visited the Kremlin behind the walls and tour several Sercuffs (Churches) that were inside. The artwork was amazing. We also went to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior which was another feast for the eyes regarding magnificent paintings. From there we rushed to the American Embassy so that we could sit and wait for our names to be called. That time was also a very special event for us as Americans. It was wonderful to be amongst 'our own' even though they were strangers, which of course did not last long. We were very quickly engaged in conversation as we made quite a spectacle of four older children and two adults dressed in our 'going to America' matching clothes in a crowd of babies and parents. The greatest blessing though was being able to speak with folks and being completely understood and understanding them. It was our observation during our week in Russia that language is the heart of an individual. Without the ability to communicate we are lost and alone. The lack of ability to read and speak Russian, made us physically sick at times. We are thankful for having experienced this first hand so that we now better understand how our children are feeling in America.

There was one moment of trepidation during our Embassy visit. When the official was reviewing our paperwork, we discovered that they had William's birth date wrong on his visa. The first thought that ran through our minds and hearts were that it was going to take another day for them to run the paperwork and print a new visa and we could not leave tomorrow morning. Yet, all it took was $335 and another 15 minutes of waiting, then we were able to go our merry way. 'Be not terrified; do not be discouraged...'

Evening was spent packing and relaxing, as well as eating another very filling meal. Then off to bed.

We awoke at 3:00 A.M. and by 3:30 we were headed to the airport about an hour away. The roads were empty, so Dima was able to make good time. Waiting to board our plane, we met three other American families in Russia for adoption. One family beat us by adopting five older children, one three sibling group and a two sibling group. The neatest part was how much the three older boys in their teens looked just like their new dad and were as tall as him.  We all went to Zurich together, then went to our separate flights for the USA. For each of us it was like saying 'goodbye' to old friends though we had hardly spoken. We believe that is because we had shared in an incredible life changing experience that can only be understood by those who have gone through it.

Our four children did fantastic on the flights. On the first leg to Zurich they were awake the whole time. On the second leg the three boys took a long and hard nap. Adrianna was more restless and did not sleep much. They all enjoyed the ride and the food. They tried to watch the movies, but the seats in front were too high and they got tired of kneeling as well as not understanding the words. They mostly drank and went to the bathroom. It least it gave them something to do! On a couple of these trips to the middle of the plane Bob would escort Zachary, and he would get into conversations with those in line. How he beamed as he told our story. He never tired of sharing it with anyone who asked. The stewardesses were also very taken with our four and the story of our seven at home. They presented us with a box of 50 silver wrapped chocolate circles that they use for first class. It was quite a surprise and honor. As our plane landed in Chicago, IL at 12:55 P.M., our four children became American citizens!

   

Upon disembarking we had to go through a passport check, then go to immigration which had us waiting for about a half-hour before they started to call the children up. During that time an airport official collected our luggage and brought it to us. Unfortunately, that caused us to go through another line of customs than the one the other passengers of our flight went through. We know the rest of our family was there and waiting because an airport personal who was going to her job recognized our clothes matching the ones in the lobby and said "that your family is waiting for you." That blessed our hearts and made us more anxious to get through immigration. Finally, we could go, and customs took no time except to lift our bags to go through the x-ray. Then we were on the move.

How my heart sank when we burst through the doors and there were no blue shirts! We walked, searching, then Bob saw them at the other door and started calling. What a joyous reunion! Katherine cried as soon as she saw Melinda and Cassandra coming towards her followed by the rest of the children along with her mom and dad.

All the tired feelings just melted away in the hugs and kisses of these children. From the moment they saw their brothers, William and Peter would not leave Josh and Garrison's side. And those two big boys did not mind it a bit. Adrianna was happy to see all of the girls, but stayed closest to Melinda. Zachary just enjoyed being with us all.  We all loaded into the van and headed to McDonald's! We had been promising our four since they saw the McD's in Cheboksary and with everyone they pointed out in Moscow (it seemed like there was one every mile, just like home!) that we would eat there in America. Their eyes brightened when they saw those Golden Arches. It just goes to show they were destined to be Americans one day and here it was.

The greatest joy though came when we were finally home. The four children went through the whole house to see all was the same as they remembered. William and Peter were excited to learn that they could sleep on the top bunks. They had been denied this honor when here in August. Adrianna had learned in Cheboksary that her bed had been moved from the three older girls room to Victoria and Rebecca's. She was a bit miffed by that information. Yet, upon arriving home and seeing her bed in that room, she showed nothing but happiness with her new place in the house. After a nice hot shower for all six of us and a snack for supper, we had a time of gift giving. All 11 children were blessed by that time of sharing, but for us as parents, it was a time of marveling.

Just 7 months ago we learned of these four orphan children needing a family. Just 3 months ago they were in our home for a ten-day visit, which was wonderful. Just 8 days ago we were leaving our seven children to fly to a foreign country to adopt four siblings. Just 5 days ago we saw the children for the first time and it became their 'Gotcha Day'. Just 3 days ago four Pavlovs became four Sanfords. Just 16 hours ago we were in Russia. Just 7 hours ago we landed in America. And just 2 hours ago we arrived home a family of 13!

...for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. 

Joshua 1:9

Where are they today...

2003 - Luda (9 yo), Sasha (12 yo), Sergei (10 yo)

2013 - Adrianna (19 yo), William (22 yo), Peter (20 yo)

Over the last ten years there have been many significant joys, but there have also been many trials and heart-aches. Sadly, three of our four Russian-born children have left our family in rebellion. Two of them refuse to talk with us; only William, thus far, has sought reconciliation as he learned 'out in the world' that he 'had it really good' at home and was grateful for what we did for him. And though he wants us as parents now, he still does not want to do the 'Christian thing'.

William has a nice job with benefits at a financial institution, Peter works for a modular home construction company, and Adrianna works as a maid for a very wealthy family. They are happy and enjoy their many friends. 


   

                 2003 - Vanya (9 yo)                                          2013 - Zachary (19 yo)

 

Zachary had been placed in the orphanage at 16 months of age (with his twin sister) and was later sent away to live out the rest of his life in a sanitarium due to learning disablities. But now he is finishing high school (a miracle in its self considering his beginnings), and looking forward to going to tech school to become an auto mechanic upon graduation. 

As their parents, we are thankful for the time the Lord gave us with them; to love them, give them a high school education, teach them of Christ's work on the cross, though they reject it for themselves, and to give them a future apart from living on the streets in Russia after they turned 18 years old. 
 

Even though things did not turn out as we had hoped when we sat in that courtroom 10 years ago, we would still do it again because we love our children and have been very blessed to have the opportunity to be an important part of their lives. They have taught us how to have biblical love, how the Lord makes 'all things work together for good', and that our hope is found in Christ alone. 

May God receive all the glory!  

The Wonder of Adoption

It has been 7 months since we arrived home from the Philippines with our four children. It is actually hard to believe because it seems like they have been a part of our family forever! From the moment we arrived home, life has been 'normal'. Which quite honestly, is not normal. Never in all of our five adoptions have we experienced the smooth transition of children joining our family.

We could say there are reasons for this such as Mom and Dad are calmer and know what to expect; or the children have hearts that embrace us as parents. But actually, we know it is all just the work of the Lord.

However, the transition has not been without many teaching moments.

We have had to teach and train our children how to think analytically; speak English correctly and articulately; control tempers (the 6 year olds are still working on that one); stop nonsense chatter and speak purposefully; talk politely to siblings; look parents in the eye while talking; and go deeper in the Word of God so that it is not just words but also action from the heart.

However, they came to us all 'Sanford'; telling the truth, obeying mom and dad, doing what is right, and loving the Lord and family. Also, they are all 'Sanford' in that they love grandparents, big siblings and little nieces who live out of the house; eating pizza with a movie; playing games; reading books; singing songs; camping; swimming; riding bikes; serving at home and in the church; honoring their mom and dad. They have embraced our family-isms and that is a miracle!

Isaiah will be celebrating his 16 birthday this month. It is a special one for all Sanford children. Mom and Dad take the child to a restaurant of their choice. Then our sons receive a Knight statue and a calling out to be a man with their first real knife. (Our daughters got their ears pierced, but we are going to have to come up with a new tradition for Brianna and Olivia because their ears are already pierced.)

I admit, my heart smiles with joy in the Lord, when someone will ask that innocent question...

"So, how many children have you adopted?"

After quickly doing the mind stretch of starting with our total children, subtracting three, I then state...

"15." 

The recipient of that mind-boggling information betrays their thoughts with the immediate wide-eyed look of amazement, followed by the 'I could never do that, you are crazy people' kind of look. 

I marvel too because I know we could never do it either.

It is but for the grace of God. 

Adoption is God's idea and God's plan. 

And now, we excitedly await the paperwork from the Philippines so our lawyer can proceed with the finalization of Isaiah, Brianna, Olivia and Luke's adoption.

And it is wonderful!

In His Time

When God permits us to be overwhelmed with distresses, and to languish long under them, let us know that, in this manner, he promotes our salvation....and gives a two-fold display of his kindness to us in this respect. That he not only pardons sins, but gladly finds means of correcting them.

John Calvin

We prayed for it night and day, asking God to bring relief from this rebellious, angry child that we could have peace and rest in our home. We wanted the Lord to honor our obedience to Him by changing our child to one who is pleasant, respectful and maybe even a tiny bit grateful for being in our family, having a home and parents. Yet, the Lord tarries in fulfilling the desires and cries of our hearts.

Why must we labor under such gruesome conditions? Why is God silent in this matter?

The books talked about it, friends warned us of it, and our hearts war with it, yet God has called us to adopt. And He did not place just any child in our home. He placed this child in our home. Ordained since the beginning of time. 

This should be a source of comfort. This child is our charge and responsibility for the King of glory. But actually, these are very hard words to swallow when the child is like our worst nightmare.

How easy it is for us to err in thinking if only we had all believing  children, who loved God, we would be blessed. For all children are a blessing from the Lord for those "who are the called according to his purpose." The error is in the interpretation of the blessings, 'I thought' a blessing should bring joy and peace. Yet, due to our sin nature and God's jealousy that we worship Him alone, it is our unbelieving children who so often drive us to our knees because of the trouble or hurt they bring us; thereby, we truly draw near to God which is the greatest blessing!

Also, through this, we cannot help but see ourselves for how sinful we are in our own hearts and abilities; therefore, we are forced to fall before God in repentance to receive the power and strength to endure and persevere to His glory as well as rejoice in His mercy towards sinners!

And it came to pass after ten days, that the word of the Lord came unto Jeremiah. 

Jeremiah 42:7

Jeremiah was seeking to know the Lord's will for the remnant of Jews left by the Babylonians after a traitor killed their appointed overseer. The people wanted to know God's "way wherein we may walk, and the thing that we may do." vs. 3. This is often my desire or prayer request before the Lord: however, I often - most often - seek an answer from God 'right away'! Yet, God is most often pleased to wait with His answers. For 10 days Jeremiah waited for God's answer. The people of Israel waited 400 years to hear God speak again when Jesus came.

God always answers prayer. His silences are just a time for us to exercise faith and obedience while we wait.

It is all in His time

Journey to Cebu II

And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.
Luke 13:29

After months of waiting, we finally journeyed to Cebu. Here is that story....


Tuesday, February 5 

We arrive at the Bloomington Airport at the delightful time of 5:45 AM! Dad dropped me at the door with the luggage then went to park the 15-passenger van. As he walked back, he texted Papa to tell him where the van was parked; Papa and Gramma (Katherine's parents) would be holding down the fort while we were gone. Once our three large suitcases are checked (without a hitch), we proceeded to go through security with our two carry-on suitcases and two backpacks. My dear husband decided to brave the giant scanning machine; but I opt out. A very nice lady who chatted with me the entire time, checked me for hidden guns, knives, or anything else that could be used as a lethal weapon (sure, I fit the profile...a mother of almost 18 children; also a grandmother of almost 50 years age with blonde hair, no less!) I did learn from her one tidbit of very interesting information...I had on my motion-sickness wrist bands; she commented to me her doctor knows the doctor who created them for morning-sick; however, since the motion-sickness market was bigger, that is how they are sold. She also shared that her father used them through Chemo and how they worked wonderfully for that 'sickness' too. 

Our flight to Detroit was quick and painless. After eating breakfast, we walked the concourse half hour for exercise with anticipation of a cramped 12 hour flight to Tokyo. In that time we also exchanged some of our US dollars to Philippine pesos. At the point we were to board the plane an announcement was made...one of the doors needed a new part; it would arrive on another plane. Needless to say we did not leave on time; however, after the 3 hour delay they began boarding. Once the doors were shut, Bob asked the Stewardess if we could move to the row in front of us as those three seats were empty; to which she consented. As these seats were right behind an exit row, my dear husband had a spot with no seat in front; it was long-legs bliss! 

Wednesday, February 6

The flight over the Pacific Ocean was peaceful. We enjoyed wonderful food and service as well as some movies on our personal TV screens. Sleep came and went but we did get some rest. Once in Tokyo, we, along with 96 others, were quickly ushered through the terminal to our Manila flight; they had held it for over an hour so the 98 of us on the Detroit flight could make the connection. We were very grateful to the Lord for this!

After we arrived in Manila and collected our bags (all of them made it), we found our driver waiting. His name was Joy, which is exactly what we felt as we entered the machine-gun guarded parking lot of our hotel even though it was 12:30 in the morning. We settled quickly into our room and tried to catch some sleep. Four hours later we were up and getting ready to head to Cebu.

Thursday, February 7

Joy meet us just as he said and taxied us to the airport. We had no difficulty getting to our gate and we had a few minutes to ponder the fact that in just a few hours we were going to finally get to see, hug and kiss our four children. The flight was on time and it seemed to take no time to fly down to the island of Cebu.  

The Director, Paul Healy, of the Children's Shelter of Cebu (CSC) was to meet us at the airport. It was a happy sight for us when he drove up. Come to find out, there was an accident just before the bridge backing up traffic in every direction for what seemed miles. It was still like that as we drove past heading to CSC which made us very thankful he made it in the time he did!

Paul made a left-hand turn and let us know we were almost there. He then stopped at the big green doors, honking to have them opened. Our hearts were pounding with excitement and anticipation. We wanted to swallow the children up in hugs...but would they need us to give them space?

We could see the children at the pavilion with several adults. As we got out of the car, Jeralyn and Jovan broke away from the group and ran as hard as they could straight for me jumping into my arms, grabbing hold with their legs. I was laughing and crying at the same time; my heart was so full of joy and happiness (not to mention relief) I felt I could burst! Jocelyn and Jon came up behind the twins and immediately gave us strong hugs. I noticed right away Jon had gotten new glasses and complemented him on them. 

And the Director's wife, Marlys Healy come up to us.

We had already 'met' via Skype, but it was marvelous to meet in person! 

It is tradition at CSC to decorate a chalkboard to welcome the parents; this was ours! 

After more pictures in front of this sign, the children lead us to Cherne House where they have lived for almost five years. A lunch of egg salad sandwiches and chips was waiting for us; however, the children were served chicken, vegetables, and rice. Jeralyn was the only one who tried the 'American' sandwiches. She did not like it, but she and Jovan did like the chips...a lot!

That afternoon, Dad and I meet with the teachers. It was the first of very informative, but also emotional, meetings. These folks really love these kids, and they were going to be missed. 

For dinner we had pizza and soda (Coke and orange) as well as some of the most delicious mangoes and a seasonal fruit called lanzonies.

Bedtime for the children was approaching, so Dad and I gave them good-night hugs and kisses; then were taken back to our hotel. The children went to their 'house' to sleep.

Friday, February 8

The morning began with an amazing breakfast in the hotel restaurant. Auntie Marlys and the 4 J's picked us up at the hotel and gave us a tour of Cebu City. We saw the hospitals where the children were born, the fresh food markets, Magellen's Cross, and Santo Nino's beautifully ornate Roman Catholic Church. Back at CSC, Dad and I met with the children's social workers; then after lunch at Jollibee's (Philippines' version of McDonalds crossed with KFC) with the children, we had a meeting with their counselors. And instead of eating with the children, we went back to the hotel for our last dinner as a couple. Tomorrow the children would be joining us. 

(This is where I share my sad news...all the pictures from Thursday and Friday morning are lost forever; there were over a thousand. Because...our first week home, I had transferred our 2012 photos off my computer to an external hard-drive so I could upload all of the CSC pictures given to us by the Staff without crashing my computer. I then proceeded to delete those 2012 photos off of my computer. However, I neglected to observe that I had included the Photo Album of the photos taken by us and the four kids at CSC on Thursday and Friday morning. When I realized what I had done, I canceled the delete; however, when I went to the ‘recycle bin’ to ‘restore’ the photos, they were nowhere to be found though I was able to restore two other albums caught in my foolish delete. I was heart sick and cried quite a bit; my husband and computer techie adult children were unable to fix what I had done. My advice to anyone traveling overseas, do not do anything important while still in a jet-lag fog.)

Saturday, February 9

Jon had our camera over night to take pictures of the boys sleepover in honor of his last night at CSC. 

They played games...

had devotions, Jon was asked to lead...

sang songs.... 

eat typical boy junk food....

watched a movie...

played more games outside... 

and slept! 

 When we got there Saturday morning, Jon was still sleeping. Marlys, however, wanted to take us to a favorite spot of hers to take all the CSC children. So we loaded up the three younger children for the short drive 'up'!

The road CSC is on is called Good Shepherd Road and at the end of the road farther up is the 'Celestial City' with the nine stations of the cross. 

It was a very nice walk.

We can see why Auntie Marlys would bring the children up here!

A partial family photo with Cebu City behind us.

It was getting time for another meeting with CSC staff, this time the medical team. So we headed back to the Shelter. They were not quite ready for us so we took the time for some photo ops!

The meeting ran longer than expected, but Cherne House held lunch for us.

It was a delicious noodles and vegetable meal.  

After lunch we began the process of packing the children's things they wanted to bring to America.

Jovan was full of energy and wanted to play...

Uncle Paul came over to see how things were going and to visit with the children. Jocelyn wanted a picture to remember how both Uncle Paul and Daddy are very tall.

Looking out the window across the yard at the two other houses: Duterte House on the left with a green roof; and Eicher House which looks exactly like the Cherne House. The road on the right at the big tree is where we hugged the children for the first time. 

Jovan and Jeralyn 'wearing' Mom and Dad's clip-on sunglasses. 

Auntie Marlys brought a very special gift for Jovan. This was the blanket in which she wrapped him the day he was delivered into her care on the street in Cebu City as a tiny baby near death.

Mom and Dad were called to go to their last meeting with the Care-giving staff. We had a wonderful time learning and talking with these three wonderful women; Sandy, Lindsey, and Amy. They had also been in our meeting as counselors the day before with two others. Sandy came with Paul and Marlys over 30 years ago to establish the Children's Shelter of Cebu. 

We left the camera with the Jocelyn. She got lots of pictures. Here are just a few....

Jovan slept on the suitcase waiting for his parents to return.

Jearlyn slept in her bed for the last time.

Auntie Marlys came upstairs to spend some special time with the children.

Some sticker fun!

Jocelyn's bed on the bottom.

The 'self-portrait' lady!

We loaded the van with the suitcase and all the paperwork that had been given to us. 

We gave CSC the gifts we had brought: books or the staff, videos for the school, tea for Cherne house, and Valentine candy for all of the children at the Shelter. Jocelyn, Jeralyn and Jovan passed it out lollipops to everyone!

And because the children had taken so many pictures both of our batteries were dead. These few pictures that follow were sent to us by Lindsey. (Thank you!)

It was time for the children to leave with us. Tradition is...

...the children all gather to sing to those leaving

"God Be With You Til We Meet Again." 

Then Marlys asked if there was anything we wanted to say.

Dad gave a wonderful thank you while I video taped. 

Jon was asked to talk next but he passed with great laughter.

Then the children were instructed to hug us all good-bye.

It was wonderful!

Everyone of those children is so precious with beautiful spirits. 

We also got some photos of the children with the Staff and friends. 

(Thank you, Lindsey, for sending these to us!!)

Uncle Tarex, the children's house father. 

Paul and Marlys, the founders of CSC. 

The children's teachers. 

Auntie Sandy, one of the founders of CSC. 

Auntie Lindsey. 

It was time. We loaded into the van, waved good-bye, and drove through the big green doors for the last time and headed to our Parkland Hotel. 

The children had come with us Thursday when we checked in so they were already familiar with our room and with what we had brought with us...a Kindle and a computer. They wasted no time in asking to play games on them. 

Our two beauties!!

Once we were settled in the room and the adjoining room was prepared including a cot. We headed to the hotel restaurant for dinner. That was an experience!

The children had an abundance of choices.

Thankfully, their tastes are simple; they were able to pick their food quickly. 

A waiter was kind enough to take a picture for us.

Back upstairs everyone took a shower and got into their PJ's.

Cartoons were being watched by those who had to wait.

In the end, everyone finished the show together.

Four beautiful children, for the first time, doing the 'Sanford' thing...

wearing matching clothing!

As is tradition, the children received their first gift from Mom and Dad...

a backpack full of neat stuff just for them!

After the exploration of their new things, it was time for Family Worship. They children were all very atentive; Jon and Jocelyn tried hard to answer Dad's questions and also asked some good questions themselves. We were very blessed by their knowledge and hearts!

The four children shared an adjoining room: Jon on the cot, Jovan on the pallet....

...Jocelyn and Jeralyn sharing the bed.

Sunday, February 10

The morning came and we had a wonderful breakfast buffet with only one 'mishap'...Jovan eat some food to fast or much and a bit of it came back up in the seat beside him. Thankfully, Jon had chosen to place a seat between himself and Jovan when we sat at the table or this 'food' would have been all in his lap!!

While we waited for Dad to settle our bill, I captured this photo of the children in front of a montage of Cebu City. 

Once upstairs we took this photo of our room number. This hotel has 16 floors with at least 27 rooms on each floor; this is the room we were given when we arrived on Thursday! A fingerprint of God...we came as parents to 14 children and leave parents to 18!!

We had a few hours before heading to the airport, so we had planned a head of time to Skype the family back home. While we waited for that time to arrive we allowed the children to watch some more cartoons.

In the meantime, we got a 'call' from Justin and Melinda! We had a nice time chatting with them. 

When the 10:00 AM, we had the familiar 'whooping' of the family in Downs calling via Skype. It was wonderful to see everyone and catch up on the news there. 

Jocelyn got 'board' just talking and decided to take some photos of her pretty self!! 

Just two days before she had informed us she would not wear dresses. Since that is all we brought she was stuck, but once she saw herself, her heart became thrilled with how beautiful she was and she has not looked back. In fact, today, the longer the skirt the happier she is. 

Jocelyn also got pictures of Cebu City.

Some other things take precedence to talking to family too.

These two were very busy looking in the closets!

Time had come to head downstairs. Uncle Paul and Auntie Marlys were meeting us to take us to the airport. 

Had to get some pictures first!

Off we go to the van.

Jon was a tremendous help and he was always willing to give a hand!

At the airport is was time to say "good-bye". 

Paul and Marlys have loved and cared for these four children for almost five years. They were especially instrumental in bringing Jovan back to health and reuniting Jeralyn with her twin brother. This was not an easy farewell. 

Our little train of red suitcase...the children were great helpers!

Hurry and wait....hurry and wait...

Very happy children starting their 'first leg' of travel to America!

The Kindle Fire came in handy to keep children busy and 'fairly' still. 

A familiar sight while we waited to board.

Our plane...taking us from Cebu to Manila. 

We gave the children lollipops to keep them swallowing to help with their ears as we took off. The drop-down from the ceiling monitors kept them entertained throughout the flight.

At Manila...

...waiting for our luggage.

Jon was a great help getting four pieces of our luggage...

Jovan gave a hand with our last piece. 

The 'red suitcase' train heading to our taxi.

Waiting in the lobby of our hotel as Dad checks us in. It was the same place were we spent our few hours of sleep before flying to Cebu. 

After a dinner at the hotel restuarant, it was time for bed...

...the sight out our window was, well, quite a sight!!!

Another night of sweet rest...

...all in the same room this time!

The daylight view from our window.

Monday, February 11

Our morning started early, after a nice breakfast buffet, we met Jackie from Chosen Children in the lobby. She was to escort us to the Inter-Country Adoption Board (ICAB). 

We had to wait for our driver to come so the children busied themselves with things in their backpacks.

The driver arrived. In due time we were at ICAB.

In August 2011, several Filipino children came to Illinois to be hosted by families for future adoption. They were escorted by two ladies whom we hosted for a week. One of them was from ICAB named Rutchel. We were pleasantly surprised to see her and to know she was going to take care of us through the ICAB process. 

In 2011, Rutchel listened to our story of wanting to adopt the 4 J's.

And now here we are at ICAB receiving  their paperwork from her!!

Jon had to go to a special class for his visa; Dad went with him along with Jackie. The three younger children and I were dropped of at the hotel. And after a quick lunch, we all laid down for a nap. Jeralyn did not take me as seriously as she should about the nap so we did have a bit of a 'battle of the wills'. Suffice it to say...I won!! When Jon and Dad got back, all walked over to Mall of Asia for a look-see and dinner.

On our walk back, Jon got a beautiful shot of the ferris wheel....

...and our hotel.

Our little son is very 'jumpy'.

The hotel restaurant.

Our room was on floor 12.

Dad always had lots of help opening the door.

This night was a very special night. It is our tradition after a 'government' gives us the responsibility of our new children, we give them new names.

We had the children all sit on the bed. Dad gave a little speech on how we give new names.

The energy began to swell in the room.

He then handed them each a box wrapped in gold paper.

Jon had the choice to go first but he decided we would go youngest to oldest; but he has the honor of reading to each one their new name.

so Jovan goes first....

Luke Jovan Sanford

“Bringer of Light” + “God is gracious”

Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple:

I was brought low, and he helped me. Return unto thy rest, O my soul;

for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.

Psalm 116:5-7

He also received dog-tags with his new name on them.

This is the tradition for our boys.

Next it is Jeralyn...

Olivia Jeralyn Sanford

“Olive Tree: fruitfulness, beauty, dignity” + “mighty with a spear-pool below the waterfall”

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped:

therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

Psalm 28:7

She received a gold heart locket necklace

which is our tradition for our girls.

Jocelyn was full of nervous energy with her name! 

Jon read the rest of hers out loud...

Brianna Jocelyn Sanford

“strong, virtuous, honorable” + “joyous”

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work,

and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to

his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.

Colossians 1:10-11

She too received a heart locket necklace, which Daddy put on her.

Finally, it is Jon's turn. He is very excited but also very nervous. 

We told him this will be his name but he can go by his 'middle name'

if he does not like his new first name...

He drags it out and then tells the other kids to leave him to read it alone first....

He took to long and they all jumped on him...

Daddy got them all to stay back and give him space.

When he read it out loud the children...

...all jumped on him to see 'his name' for themselves.

He was very happy! And immediately wanted to be called by his first name....

Isaiah Jon Sanford

“God is my salvation” + “God is gracious”

Observe and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may go well with thee,

and with thy children after thee for ever, when thou doest that which is good and right

in the sight of the Lord thy God.

Deuteronomy 12:28

Olivia's necklace was tangled from the box...Mommy fixed it and 

Daddy was able to place it around her neck.

A very happy mother with her precious daughter!!

Tuesday, February 12

This was a free day. We decided to stay near the hotel and just do some shopping at the Mall of Asia a block away. The children were also going to get to ride some rides. But first we had a leisurely breakfast downstairs. That is an orange in Luke's mouth. He was trying to be silly! He is good at that!

Olivia's new shirt with her new necklace.

Beautiful Brianna!!

More photo ops!

The first rides of the day...

We went to the boardwalk to see how much the Ferris-wheel cost for a ride

later that evening after the sun goes down. 

Isaiah, Olivia, Brianna, and Luke...

...looking out over Manila Bay.

This was too silly not to capture...

The giant word behind the says 'love'...

which is exactly what we feel about these four!

Waiting for Dad to exchange some money into pesos. This touch-screen of the mall kept the children occupied and centralized!

Second ride of the day...

the Merry-Go-Round!

After some walking around it was time for lunch...

American style at KFC!

Luke is 'relaxing' while we wait for our food to come.

Isaiah is a bit more active...arm wrestleing with Brianna.

Olivia was taking it easy too.

Finally the food...chicken with a rice ball.

The children had not yet watched 'Iron Man' but they knew who he was.

Third ride of the day...balloon Ferris-wheel. 

The shopping was done so we headed back to the hotel for naps.

Before we left to go on our next ride, Dad gave each of the children a

luggage tag for their backpack with their new name on it.

We walked the boardwalk to 'see the sights' for a bit while we waited for the sun to go down.  

Time for the fourth ride of the day... 

on the....

 As we are riding up in this incredibly high ride...our son of very few words, Isaiah, suddenly said, "The tallest, the biggest, and the slowest." Dad and I burst out laughing. He was so right on!

Before going to dinner, we went to get some diaper wipes for hand wipes at the grocery store in the Mall. 

This was the last photo, at the pizza place. The battery ran out. But Dad can be seen in the white shirt leaning over the counter at the left straight back where he is figuring out what to get for the family. 

Tomorrow we leave for America.

Wednesday, February 13

We left our room at 4:15 AM and waited for the elevators to carry us down to the lobby. The 'red suitcase' train begins again!

Joy was there to take us for the last time to the Manila airport. 

Four tired children but excited to be going to America! 

At the airport... 

Eating some breakfast while we wait for our flight. 

The time had come, because we had young children we were able to get early boarding. 

In Tokyo, heading to security. 

That was our plane that flown us to Japan! 

After a several hour layover, which was extended due to a late arrival plane  - giving us plenty of time to dry Luke's clothes after he had wet his pants while waiting to go through security; thankfully, he already had his shoes off -  we finally started boarding our Delta flight which was taking us to St. Paul, Minnesota, USA!!!

Seeing America for the first time!!!

And there was snow too!

Our plane that brought us home to America. 

Heading to Immigration. 

We have gotten through Immigration and security (Due to a 'crowd' they let all of us go through the little metal detector instead of the big body scanner. Thank you Lord for answering my prayer!) and were now heading to our next flight. Since we missed our original flight to Bloomington because of the delay in Tokyo, Delta re-routed us through Detroit to Bloomington. 

The children were exhausted and soon all of them were asleep in their seats. 

Time to load again! 

In Detroit, where Mom and Dad were just eight days earlier. 

Going up to catch the tram... 

Watching fo the tram. 

A front row stand on the tram! 

Since we had plenty of time, Dad exchanged his pesos back into dollars. 

Down the steep escalator to the tunnel. 

When Dad and I went through this as we were heading to the Philippines, I had commented how fun it would be for the children to see it; Dad reminded me we were not going home this way...come to find out, God had other ideas! 

Our final flight.

This nice lady bought our dinner for us in honor of her granddaughter who was adopted from China six years before. 

When we arrive in Bloomington...

we will have been on 5 airplanes spending 30+ hours in airports and airplanes.

The children did fantastic, sleeping through most of it.

However, now they were wide awake, full of nervous energy.  

The call to board came...

Eating our 'Lunchables' for dinner. 

Last plane ride, 

and still full of spunk! 

The FAMILY!!! 

Joy filled the air...

our family is finally all together! 

Aunt Olivia and Uncle Luke fist-bumping their Niece Jael (who does not quite know what to make of these two 'new-comers' into her world.)

Before we left we took our traditional family photo. 

(Missing was Jennifer who was very sick and Melissa who lived too far away for how late we arrived.) 

Putting on winter coats for the first time! 

The clan is all coming to the house...

Jael wanted to hold Grammy; Grammy did not mind!! 

Home...

...home at last!! 

Isaiah first reaction was...WOW! 

And Luke finally got to meet his dogs, Gertie and Betsy! 

The rest of the evening can be seen at....

Journey to Cebu II

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

Psalm 126:3