Simply Love

SHIRTS FOR SHOES PROJECT- starts today!!

2010-01-15T15:36:00.001-06:00

Please click on button! We will provide new shoes and shirts for 400 orphans. We need your help!

Vote For Crazy Me:)

2009-12-28T15:34:00.003-06:00

Help me make top #10 Mommy Blog. All you have to do is click on this adorable button & it gives my crazy mommy blog a vote. You can vote as many times as you want!! Help me spread the word about adoption!! Also located at my new website- www.mycrazyadoption.com

NEW LIMITED EDITION SIMPLY LOVE T SHIRTS.... just 4 you!

2009-11-23T17:20:00.003-06:00

Go to www.mycrazyadoption.org and take a peek at our new Simply Love T shirts. You can click on the PayPal button on top right side to purchase your T's. The first 20 orders will receive a personally signed free copy of my dad, Gary Smalley’s new book, As Long As We Both Shall Love.

Money 4 Adoption... I need your TOP PICKS.

2009-10-20T14:28:00.001-05:00

Please share your Top Adoption Grant Picks at www.mycrazyadoption.org

HOUSE FOR ADOPTION

2009-10-12T09:39:00.002-05:00

We'd love for you to come along and pray for adoption miracles. MOVE THAT HOUSE!

BRAVE HEARTED CHICK CONTEST!!

2009-09-26T13:21:00.001-05:00

Posted at My Crazy Adoption!!

FOLLOW OUR NEXT ADOPTION!

2009-09-23T12:35:00.003-05:00

We are so excited to start the adoption paper pregnancy. We have a long road! Please follow us on our new blog... www.mycrazyadoption.org. Yes, you can add URL to your bloggy rolls!

My new FEED address: http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyCrazyAdoption

2009-09-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

99,999 Bloggy Hit GRAND PRIZE COMING SOON!

2009-09-13T21:25:00.004-05:00

Let me know if you make the 99,999th blog hit...leave me a comment!! The counter ticker is on the top right side of
My Crazy Adoption!

First Quinceanera Party Photoslide!!

2009-09-13T10:46:00.002-05:00

What an honor to help celebrate KristiAnna's 15th birthday!! The Quinceanera ceremony was amazing... what a testimony of God's love!! We were so excited Michael was part of the 12 Chamberlains.

RUN BABY RUN

2009-09-13T08:58:00.002-05:00

Beautiful Faces of Haiti

2009-09-03T16:45:00.001-05:00

These are the beautiful faces of the future of Haiti. Every face tells a special story. You can make a difference. Sponsor a child from Haiti or Ethiopia today! missionofmercy.org
song: TobyMac City on Our Knees

Beautiful Faces of Haiti from Kari Gibson on Vimeo.

JRA HAITI MISSION TRIP VIDEO

2009-08-31T09:30:00.001-05:00

Untitled from Kari Gibson on Vimeo.

SIMPLY LOVE HAITI

2009-08-30T09:31:00.000-05:00

Read and see pics on My Crazy Adoption.

PLEASE ADD NEW BLOGGY URL TO YOUR ROLL:)

2009-08-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I forgot to mention that you have my YES YOU CAN to add our new blog site to your rolls. Thanks for asking:) I was able to add my bloggy peeps on my special roll that keeps me updated daily. I can't miss a beat... thanks for your virtual friendship.
We will continue to call our blog Simply Love.

AWAA REUNION IMPORTANT UPDATE... SDC

2009-08-21T11:15:00.002-05:00

Please go to the reunion blog today!!

GOODBYE BLOGSPOT!!

2009-08-15T15:26:00.001-05:00

Bloggy friends, it's time to make the BIG BLOG ROLL CHANGE. I'm so honored to be on your blogs and would love for you to add my new website: www.mycrazyadoption.org to continue updating you on our family, fun, and new adoption. Don't worry if you forget... SimplyLove will kindly escort you over to the new site in 6 seconds. Is that cool or what. The new blog will read like a magazine... take a peek and let me know what you think. You can STILL leave me comments!!! They are like little presents that make my day brighter:)

My CRAZY AWESOME brother, Mike has made the transition smooth for me. It's crazy raining outside, so we thought it was the perfect time to make the big blog move together!!!! I have some new rules set by my sibling... I can't add 10 exclamation points after things that make me happy. I can't bold big words or use improper grammar or add a ton of................... these little buggers.

The REAL reason I have a new blog... prayerfully we will launch our new non-profit and start making a huge impact with adoptions. I'll give you the scoop soon:))) ohhhhh yay, I can't do the happy smile thing either. Oh well, I love a new challenge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Goodbye Blogspot!!

Happy 70th Mom!!

2009-08-13T12:00:00.002-05:00

My mom is turning 70! We are spending a special week with the birthday girl with our entire family in Florida. What an amazing gift... thank you gramma!! We feel like we're getting a present, too:) Hopefully I can steal away to post some fun pics!!

No Regrets.

2009-08-13T07:00:00.008-05:00

I wanted you to know the behind the scenes from my "Spill the Beans" post last week. Roger and I fell in love with 2 older girls over a month ago on the AW WC list. We were originally going to wait for Zoie to turn 2 before plunging in the adoption adventure again, but we felt very ambitious to quick start the process. Love at first sight.

We are at the very beginning stages... actually still waiting to get the phone call that we are approved again. It's so different than when we first started the adoption process several years ago... waiting for Zoie. I feel like an old pro now.

The really crazy part, both girls had been on the waiting list for a long time, but last week both photos had new words under them. It hit me like a brick.
For weeks, every time I would peek at W's photo ... I was praying for her new mommy & daddy, but I really thought we had a shot.
Honestly, I had no idea my heart would respond *crash* when I saw those words... File Under Review.

I knew we were too late. I wept and then it hit me hard & fast...no regrets.
God has already planned WHO these beautiful girl's parents will be.
He's planned it and I can trust His plans are perfect. His timing is perfect.
Forget about feeling like an old pro... I'm back again, daily renewal, waiting, dreaming, hoping and trusting.
I want to wait for our blessings. They're out there waiting for us:)

We are requesting 2 older girls, unrelated, ages... 3 to 12.
It's so exciting to see how God will direct our steps. It feels soooo good to be back in the crazy adventure of adoption.

Zoie LIVE and the judge.

2009-08-12T11:22:00.001-05:00

Bloggy friends... we wanted to share with you Zoie's re-adoption day LIVE! My sweet H was the film maker, but she accidentally cut it off at the finale. ooops! What a special day!! A few adoption "peeps" have asked me if the process to re-adopt is difficult, but as you can see it's simple to do. We had an amazing lawyer help us from A to Z. Thanks Mr. Farris!!

Awesome M's K-Golf Adventure!!

2009-08-12T07:46:00.000-05:00

Kanakuk Golf Kamp was such a blast for M! He broke some of his personal records and met some incredible golfers along the way. We appreciate EVERYthing the staff and counselors poured into these young men for 2 weeks.

Sisters.

2009-08-11T07:00:00.004-05:00

We are so blessed by our 2 awesome daughters. They are bonding and playing and teaching each other what it means to be sisters.
Sisters = Simply Love

70,000 hit... We have a winner!!!

2009-08-10T14:46:00.000-05:00

Let me know if YOU make the 70,000 hit tonight:)

Yayyy... Merica Stum!! You were the big 70K hit and you win 2 children's books written by yours truly:))) Mookie will be coming home with you soon!!

Zoie LIVE and the donut.

2009-08-10T07:00:00.004-05:00

Zoie girl, happy 19 months old today! We have taken a pic every month with her pink bow... remember when it was bigger than her head:)
Bow + ice cream = one special girl!

Simply Sunday. My Garden story.

2009-08-09T06:00:00.005-05:00

I love my flower garden. Every night, these beautiful flowers close their blooms. In the morning, they open up and express their beauty again. Renewal. There are so many things that are uncertain in my life right now. It's so easy for me to question God and wonder "why". I love that God can use my flowers to remind me that He loves me and will take care of all my needs. His promises and miracles are new every morning. Even when I don't understand what His plans are, I can trust Him with all my heart.

night in my garden.

Every night God shows His love.
Every morning God shows His new miracles.

morning in my garden.

Simply Love.
I'd love to hear what you are "waiting" for and how God is renewing your spirit.

This Woman's Work.

2009-08-08T12:00:00.003-05:00

I love the TV show... So You Think You Can Dance. If you missed the stunning, touching and heartbreaking tribute to breast cancer survivors.... watch it here.

Music is Maxwell's cover of "This Woman's Work," and the choreography is by Tyce DiOrio. Melissa and Ade danced this portrait of a woman's struggle with breast cancer beautifully, and the judges reactions were heartbreaking.

Look who I bumped into at SDC!

2009-08-08T07:00:00.004-05:00

We took the girls today to Silver Dollar City for fun in 100 degrees of Ozark summer heat! K-Golf was there, so it was so much fun to see Awesome M! It's been a long 2 weeks without my boy. We were zipping around the corner when I heard someone call out my name. We bumped right into Sarah Moffat and her family. Sweet, precious Rosie *just home* from Ethiopia got to meet Zoie.

SPILL THE BEANS...

2009-08-07T07:00:00.004-05:00

OK... just a few words. I love my bloggy friends. You're so smart:)
Yes, we started the adoption process again and waiting to hear we are approved!
Praying and hoping and dreaming and thrilled to see what God has planned!

LOST AND FOUND FAMILY... movie celebrates adoption!

2009-08-06T16:06:00.015-05:00

The Heart of the film... ADOPTION!

The Lost & Found Family is a heartwarming movie about the power of God's Love in the lives of children in the foster-care system. Theirs is a story rarely told.

Spread The Word About The Lost and Found Family (widgets available!)

When you see a movie you like, what's the first thing you do? You tell others about it! That's because we are always looking for movies that have meaning and purpose. Be sure to let your friends know about The Lost & Found Family by utilizing these great tools on your blog, facebook page, and website.

I'd love to hear what you think?

Zoie and the ET twins

2009-08-06T07:00:00.005-05:00

Click to enlarge:)

It was so much fun for Zoie to meet her first pair of twin baby boys, Phelix & Phisher from Ethiopia! My favorite pic is her holding Phelix's hand. Michelle and Jamie invited us over to swim at K-Kauai and I think I was in heaven:) If you are visiting Simply Love for the first time... we hope we inspire you to look deeply into the amazing world of adoption. You will never be the same!

I hugged an American Idol!

2009-08-05T13:29:00.002-05:00

What picture do you like better... A or B? LOL

What a blast to meet Luke Menard (purple v-neck) and his adorable wife, Lara and their friends at our local Starbucks! They are passionate about God, Africa and orphans! Luke was on Season 7 and is a cancer survivor!! Check out his blog.

Wednesday WOW Recipe... Hamburger Dogs!!

2009-08-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

You heard me right... Hamburger Dogs! My family loves this yummy recipe and it's super easy, of course. The perfect dog to grill for a summer picnic.

Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
(I told you it was easy!)

1 1/4 pounds ground beef or turkey
1 packet meatloaf seasoning
2 Tablespoons ketchup
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
Hot dog buns
Relish & chopped onion for garnish

Preheat grill to med. high heat.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, seasoning, ketchup, bread crumbs and egg. Mix until just combined; do not overmix!! Shape into HOT DOG forms. Grill approximately 8-10 min. Serve on hot dog buns with all the garnish.

Simply Sunday

2009-08-02T09:05:00.003-05:00

This was one of my most challenging weeks as a mom of 3. It was a combo of so many things. I was stretched emotionally, exhausted physically, single-for-the-week (hubby out of town) and encouraged!! Yes, I was encouraged every day by reading Poppy Dips. God never promised us that life would be easy, but He promises to love us and fill us with His power to make it through the crazy stuff. It was the little things that counted... fun phone calls, friends helping out, kind nurses, gramma's house, H helping me take a nap, hearing my baby say "mommy" and Crazy Love.

"God was pleased to make you His own. Pleased! He didn't just feel sorry for you. He wasn't obligated to you. He chose you because He delights in you. You were never meant to get through life by the skin of your teeth. You were meant to flourish in the love and acceptance of Almighty Jehovah.
When He sings over you, dance!"

Simply Love.

Congrats Lenka Steiger.... you are a brave hearted chick!!

Poppy Dip Contest WINNER!!!!!

2009-08-01T12:55:00.003-05:00

All you need to do is leave your name & email for Sallee on her blog comment... Poppy Dip. She'll take it from here:) Congrats!!!

Soon...

2009-08-01T08:35:00.003-05:00

I just wrote out EVERY name and the date you posted your Poppy Dip! Zoie woke up at 5:30 AM...not my Poppy Dip for today. ugh As soon as she is down for her nap and I've had the chance to shower (can't have crazy hair for the video) I will draw a name! It was my blessing to read ALL the Dips.... lets keep it going and keep posting comments on Sallee's blog!

BTW, Sallee just got a new fabric in for us. It's called "Smiles Around the World" and will be gone in a wink of an eye. Order your dress asap (I just did:) She will start making dresses with sleeves for an additional cost for the fall season.

Do you want a Lulu??

2009-08-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

I stole this post from my friend... it cracked me up!! Am I really kissing an iPod???!!

Mr. Ipod Touch's Auntie comes for a visit!! Kari and Zoie check on Lulu!!

Krazy Kiki comes for a Lulu visit!! She misses Mr. IPod Touch so much that she had to come for a visit. She wanted Lulu to come home with her, but she bought raffle tickets instead!!

Julie's blog- buy your tickets today!! 100% of donations for her Haiti mission trip & orphans!

My crazy wacko day!

2009-07-31T17:45:00.006-05:00

I've had so much fun this week reading all the wonderful Poppy Dips. They have been funny, touching, *sniff* and adorable! It's made me focus on James 1... count it all joy when you face testing. We can always find a Poppy Dip in our day.
All day long today... I have pondered on choosing my favorite Poppy Dip: Hubby is out of town, sweet Zoie is sick with sinus infection, bronchitis and cutting 4 molars (I just found that out) Awesome M jumped in and packed himself for 2 weeks at Kanakuk Golf Kamp. I love teenagers! Awesome H played with sissy so I could take him to Mexican food lunch date, but an hour before kamp he learned the hard way to look reallllly good for parked cars behind your vehicle. It was a solid crunch, but thankfully there was no one trying to get in their car. WHEW!! 10 people ran toward us and my teen handled it like a pro... pointing at me "She did it!" Just kidding. He was very grateful the damage was minimal and no cops involved.
Kamp dropoff, no nap Zo = VERY grumpy baby. Pizza delivery. Praying all drama is over for the day! That's why there is no way I can pick just 1 Poppy Dip today.... it was all good and crazy!

Poppy Dip contest ends at midnight:)
Keep writing those "P Dips"

Poppy Dip Contest 6... one more day to WIN!

2009-07-31T06:00:00.002-05:00

Share your Poppy Dip day with me.... it's your last chance to win! All you need to do is share one thing that made today extra special. Enter 1x a day. I'll draw a name on Saturday & share the winner via bloggy video in the afternoon when Zoie naps:)

If I draw your name... you win a very special Poppy Dip dress! You pick the fabric available and size...graciously donated by Sallee.

Poppy Dip Contest... Give me your best today:)

2009-07-30T09:20:00.003-05:00

It's been a rough morning... poor Zoie is sick. I wanted to hear today one thing that you are so grateful for... a special Poppy Dip. I'm grateful for my kids this morning! They are making their baby sister smile even though she's feeling miserable!

What is your special Poppy Dip, even when things are hard?

Wednesday WOW Recipe... S'more Bars

2009-07-29T10:00:00.001-05:00

We loved family camp this year.... adorable Sarah Yocum gave me this yummy creation she made up on her own. She wakes up in the middle of the night and writes recipes that come to her head. I think that's simply amazing! She gave me permission to post her one-of-a-king original S'more Bars. Thanks sister!

The stuff you need:

1 1/2 cups of butter
1 2/3 cup of sugar
2 eggs
3 teaspoons of vanilla
1 box of graham crackers
1 cup of flour
1 teaspoon salt
8 chocolate bars, dark or milk ch.
3 cups mini marshmallows

Go for it:
Preheat oven to 350.
Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, add eggs and vanilla, stir in crushed graham crackers. Take 1/2 of the mixture and press firmly in the bottom of a 13x9 pan. Add chocolate bars in a single layer on top and cover with mini marshmallows. Add last half of cracker crust and cover marshmallows and press firmly. Bake for 20-24 minuets.

Sarah baked this delighful treat for us on her 24 and we gobbled them up! Keep enjoying your summer & all the yummy things to pig out on:)

Poppy Dip Contest Day 5... enter 1 x a day!

2009-07-29T06:00:00.002-05:00

I love reading your "Poppy Dips"... they make my day a little brighter! Keep sharing to win... that's how easy this contest is. Here's Zoie's new Poppy Dip dress.
Sea Beauties.

(click to enlarge)

Pray for AW families tonight... passing court miracles!

2009-07-28T14:45:00.007-05:00

GOD IS GOOD... GILLMANS PASSED COURT!

Our dear friends received their referral back in Feb. and are still waiting to bring home their 2 beautiful children. Problems happened that were out of their control, but they have had to wait so long. Tonight in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia they have their official court date and we pray that they pass with flying colors. God won't allow his precious children to stay in Ethiopia a second longer than He has planned! We pray that THIS IS IT!

Here's how you can pray (a note from Kim)
*that the judge is satisfied with all our court documents and how they read, that the Women's ministry MOWA writes the recommendation letter we need, and general favor upon our case.

At some point Wednesday morning our agency will call to let us know how things went. I will post an update on our blog A Blissful Heart

Gillman family we are hoping and dreaming and praying and cheering that you hear the words... you passed!! I have your favorite cupcakes and we can't wait to celebrate God's miracles no matter what!

Poppy Dip Contest Day 4... enter 1 x a day!

2009-07-28T08:29:00.003-05:00

My poppy dip today.... all 3 kiddos are sleeping in late:)
Who's going to win an adorable Poppy Dip dress?

One more thing to add... I bumped smack into an AWAA family today at the Landing! It was so great to meet Michelle Witaker and her adorable kiddos. What a special surprise:)

Mr. Ipod Touch's NEW family!

2009-07-27T10:00:00.001-05:00

Mr. iPod Touch's new family.... was so awesome to send us pics! You might recognize new mom... Sallee (she's Poppy Dip mom too:) What an incredible family. They are living examples of the gift of adoption and love and fun! I think Mr. Touch is feeling right at home now!

If you are interested in bringing home his niece, Lulu iPod Touch... take a peek at my BF's blog and Raffle Contest. She is joining the Haiti mission trip and needs our help!

Mr. Ipod Touch we love you.

It's A Poppy Dip Day 3... enter 1 x a day!

2009-07-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

I can't wait to read all your "Poppy Dips" today!! Bloggy friends, you are my Poppy Dip blessing!! OK... even though it's my contest, I had to share my Poppy Dip today was getting a "happy" in the mail from Mr. Ipod Touch's new mom, Sallee!!! Zoie's new dress... Little Mermaid is soooooo adorable!!!

Miss Lulu iPod Touch RAFFLE.... my friend's mission trip contest!

2009-07-26T08:34:00.004-05:00

My friend Julie (Juju) Neal is going to Haiti with me on our incredible mission trip with JRA!!!!! Join in on the fun and buy your "virtual" raffle tickets on her blog for the next 10 days to win Miss Lulu iPod Touch!!! Just click here.... RAFFLE!

It's A Poppy Dip Day 2... enter 1 x a day!

2009-07-26T00:06:00.004-05:00

Poppy Dip Day 2... leave your comment to win a dress!!
Check out the new Christmas fabrics!

NEW CONTEST... ENTER 1 x a day!!

2009-07-25T10:42:00.003-05:00

I'm a huge fan of the cutest dresses on the bloggy block... Poppy Dip!! If you have a girl, these dresses will make even the cloudiest day brighter! Poppy Dip mom, Sallee is adopting again from Ethiopia and sewing these adorable creations for their fundraiser at the very affordable price of $25... tons of fabrics to choose from!

You can win an original dress right here at Simply Love. Every day you can enter to win! Here's what you have to do...

"The name It's Poppy Dip means "everything is good''... it's an expression that our 2 year old (from Ethiopia!!) loves to say when he's happy and it's good!!" Sallee

Here's how the contest works: I want to know what makes your day a Poppy Dip day. Leave me a comment and share one Poppy Dip "everything is good" thing about your day. You may enter 1 time every day for a chance to win!! The more comments you leave the greater your chances will be. I will randomly choose a name on Saturday, Aug. 1st. You choose the fabric and Sallee sews the prize. We'll announce the winner via bloggy video.

Grab your high heels.... On your mark, get set go!

FRIDAY FUN FOTOS

2009-07-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

No words. Just pics.

NEW CONTEST.... nitty gritty details!!

2009-07-23T19:41:00.004-05:00

I'm thrilled to announce to my bloggy friends a NEW CONTEST starting soon!!! Yep, I'm having withdrawals and came up with a fun contest & a fun prize just for YOU! I'll share the nitty gritty details on Saturday. Stay tuned....the race is on!! One entry per day. You can even wear your high heels:)

Wednesday WOW Recipe.... It's back!

2009-07-22T13:35:00.007-05:00

It's been a crazy couple of weeks, but Wednedsay WOW is back!!! We are down in Siloam Springs, AR visiting our awesome family... fun from the second we come! My very best friend in college married my brother... now we celebrate our passions of China & Ethiopia as sisters. God's plans are so amazing! Erin is a fantastic cook... bakes killer desserts. This is her family's favorite... its so easy & yummy my niece (who's in Ecuador) bakes this with her eyes closed:)

Fluffy Peanut Butter Pie

Graham Cracker Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
7 Tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 c sugar

Filling:
1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 c peanut butter, smooth or crunchy
1 c powdered sugar
1/2 c milk
1 (9oz) carton non-dairy topping
1/4 c finely chopped roasted peanuts

How to put it all together:
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and sugar. Press into a 10 inch pie plate. Bake at 375 for 6-8 minutes. Cool.
Whip cream cheese until it is soft and fluffy.
Beat in peanut butter and sugar. Slowly add milk, blending thoroughly.
Fold in topping. Pour into cooled crust.
Sprinkle with peanuts. Freeze until firm.

My niece on mission trip in Ecuador!

2009-07-22T12:39:00.005-05:00

Tay's journal entry for the day... Ecuador Mission Trip blog!

"We had an exhausting day of travel yesterday and today but we are finally here in Santa Domingo, Ecuador. We arrived in Quito at about 10:00 and by the time we went through customs, got our luggage, and arrived at the hotel it was 12:00. When we were getting of the plane we were all given masks to wear until they collected our health forms. I think we had the masks on for about 100 ft. Customs went very smoothly and we did not lose any luggage. We all slept very well and after breakfast was finished we loaded the bus and headed to Santa Domingo. Thank goodness for Dramamine. The road to Santa Domingo is brutal. Buses here have no problem passing on corners and the curves never end. Fortunately we arrived with no sickness, just a few upset stomachs. This afternoon we settled in and practiced our dramas. Tomorrow we will be going white water rafting. The reason we are doing this first is because the kids in school are having exams this week and we will not be able to be in the schools until next week. Thursday and Friday we will be doing the dramas in parks and at city squares. I could tell by some of the responses at our share time during devotions that our young people are already being impacted by what they have seen. Please continue to pray for us that God will use us in a great way and that he will provide protection for us."

Ecuador Mission Trip 2009
Please pray for my niece!!

MOVING SOON!!!!

2009-07-21T16:31:00.006-05:00

I would love to announce that we are moving to a new blog website soon! My little brother bought our new URL & created the website for us... what a gift of love!!!!!!! He's been packing up ALL our things, just like a real move over to the new website. I'm not quite ready for the official launch, but I would love for you to take a peek! You can add our new site to your blog roll (I don't want to lose touch of my favorite bloggy friends) The best part, my genius techy bro will be able to make it possible to come here (if you forget to change your roll) and it will escort you to the new site:) Sooo cool!!! I'll make the official blog switch launch notice soon!!! Here's a SNEEK PEEK... I'll keep updating here & the new site simultaneously.

www.mycrazyadoption.org

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!!

2009-07-20T14:25:00.007-05:00

We are soooo excited to share Pastor John's sermon "There's No Place Like Home" If you are passionate about adoption, please take the time to listen to this amazing talk on how YOU can help orphans. Every orphan has the same dream.... a mom, a dad, a home!! Take the time to pass this on to anyone considering foster care, domestic, international adoption. You can also find out ways to help connect, serve or donate towards an adoption.
We can ALL DO SOMETHING!!

click & listen....
James River Assembly â€¢ Messages

Lord, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them. You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed.
(Ps. 10:17-18)

CHERISH KIDS... we can call you!!

2009-07-20T11:38:00.004-05:00

What an incredible Sunday.... Cherish Kids Sunday with a powerful message on what we can all do to help orphans! We received 79 cards of families interested in foster, domestic and international adoption. Our team has been calling and emailing all morning... if you have any questions or need support, please email me personally at karigib@gmail.com

I will post the podcast of the sermon as soon as I can!!

ORPHANS. ADOPTION. SIMPLY LOVE.

2009-07-19T07:00:00.003-05:00

OPEN YOUR HEARTS. Learn more about foster care in your area, domestic and international adoption. Ask. Seek. Pray. Act!!

Orphan Study Part 4 of 4.

A family to INSIPRE... Lucy Lane!!

2009-07-18T14:37:00.003-05:00

This weekend, as we prepare for Orphan Care Sunday... we really want to inspire you to look deeply in your hearts and pray about adoption. A dear bloggy friend, Kristi just traveled to Ethiopia to bring home their baby girl, Lucy Lane. A friend created a beautiful video to celebrate this incredible miracle of Gotcha Day!
One less orphan.
Watch and be inspired to take action!

Powerful video U don't want to miss!

2009-07-18T12:00:00.003-05:00

Orphans need a family, a church home, and resources to empower!!
Our BEST is to put children who do not have a mommy or daddy into homes and families... a family is a permanent solution!! It's radical hospitality!! Adoption requires sacrifice!!

Orphan Study part 3 of 4

O.R.P.H.A.N CARE

2009-07-18T07:00:00.003-05:00

6 Key Values of O.R.P.H.A.N. Care that Every Person Can Do

O pen your heart to orphans: Understand God’s heart for the orphan. He cares for them and expects us to care as well.

R ecognize your responsibility: Every person can care for a child who is vulnerable or orphaned in practical ways both locally and globally. Become involved in an orphan-care ministry in your church.

P revent children from becoming orphans: Advocate for children. Prevent children from becoming orphans by offering care and treatment of mothers, fathers, and children who are living with HIV.

H elp in practical ways: Offer relief, food, and clothing but don’t stop there. Focus on family-based, church-initiated solutions which are sustainable and wholistic emphasizing education and community development.

A ccept orphans into families: Work toward solutions which allow children to grow in families—not just homes or institutions. Promote adoption and permanency as God’s idea for the health, growth, and healing of a child.

N ever forget the church: The local church via the family is God’s answer for the orphan. Create partnerships with churches worldwide, encouraging the local church to own and direct orphan-care efforts.

S - Submit to God's Word & pray

Gather together with other members of your church to study God's Word and pray about the ways God wants you care for orphans.

Orphan Study part 2 of 4

We can all make a difference!

2009-07-17T15:12:00.017-05:00

I'm so blessed to be a part of Cherish Kids... a special program at our church that advocates for foster care, domestic & international adoption. Julie and I will be at James River this Sunday, July 19th at the EXPO booth all 3 services (8:30, 10:00 and 11:30am) The church service will be simply amazing... advocating for ORPHANS!! Please join us if you are in the area and come say hi:)

We had the opportunity to watch Rick and Kay Warren's powerful study on orphans today. I want to share it with you, too. Take the time and watch the video..... it's passionate and crystal clear on our role as followers of Jesus Christ and His commandments to take care of orphans. Here is Rick Warren's orphan website and I will post the 4 part video each day.

Wrap your hearts around this today... There are 3 things YOU CAN DO to help orphans. We are called to obey and simply love.
1. Relieve their hurts.
2. Defend their rights.
3. Provide long-term solutions.... ADOPTION!!
We can all make a difference.

Orphan Study SVCC Part 1 of 4.

Zoie at the beach

2009-07-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Zoie was not a big fan of walking on the sand. She would sit and play with shells, but refused to put her feet down and walk. She curled up her legs and made it crystal clear that sand was yucky. Mommy found it a little difficult to hunt for sea shells holding Zoie.... dipping chubby girl down to search for the perfect shell:) She loved floating in the water with us holding her.
I took these pics at sunset.... people kept walking by and saying hi. I even got to talk adoption to a few passerbys. How amazing to be in such a special place with my girls!

Gramma thank you for the very special "happy" Spending time with my mom & girls in FL was so special!!

Sanibel Fun with my girls

2009-07-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

Just the girls having fun! We went to an amazing restaurant with dear friends called the Bubble Room. It was one of a kind. The desserts were scary good. We have found beautiful sea shells, watched a huge alligator swim in its natural habitat...Ding Darling preserve, swam with dolphins (in the wild) and found 2 nine-legged star fish. Every day has been a fun adventure with my girls.

CONGRATS SALLEE COUCH!!!!

2009-07-11T16:00:00.000-05:00

Sallee Couch... YOU WON!!!! I'm so happy for Poppy Dip's mom for winning Mr. Ipod Touch!!! You are an amazing bloggy friend!!!
Take a peek at her blog!
Whooohooooo!!! Mr. Ipod will be coming home to you soon!
Congrats and thank you!!!

MR. IPOD TOUCH WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-11T12:00:00.004-05:00

Take a peek and see if YOU WON MR. IPOD TOUCH RAFFLE!!!!!!!!!!!

Haiti Mission Trip.... update & miracles!!

2009-07-11T08:44:00.003-05:00

71 amazing, generous gifts of love for Haiti mission trip!!
Exceeded what I prayed for....
We did it!!!! I'm so excited to share we raised $2,154 for my Haiti mission trip and overflow to bring important supplies and needs to the Haitian orphanage!!
God is so good and faithful. My bloggy friends are so good and faithful and loving. My heart is overwhelmed by your kindness and support! We're all in this together.

Today at noon we will announce the winner of MR. IPOD TOUCH!!

$200 TO REACH GOAL... raffle open till midnight!!!

2009-07-10T21:56:00.002-05:00

I've been praying for a special goal for my Haiti mission trip.... $200 more to go!!!! Raffle open till midnight tonight!!

LAST DAY TO BUY RAFFLE TICKETS!!

2009-07-10T06:35:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day to get your raffle tickets!! Mr. IPod Touch's Hillbilly adventures are about to end. He's had a delightful time vacationing in the Ozarks. We can't wait to see who wins!! OK... here's the deal. Ticket booth closes at midnight tonight. I'm going to give it my all to video & post the winner on July 11th. I'm praying Sanibel Island has internet connection:)
My fingers are crossed!! Stay tuned!

Zoie Senait Elise Gibson FINALIZED ADOPTION TODAY!

2009-07-09T16:00:00.001-05:00

Zoie, we are so proud of you!! Today is a special day.... you are officially Zoie Senait Elise Gibson!! You are an American citizen!! We love you with all our hearts!

Gibson 5 with judge and lawyers

Zoie and Judge Jim Justice

Zoie and Mr. Eric Farris...my lawyer!

Look at my lawyer's tie.... so cool!

Celebrate!!

Please leave Zoie a special note for today (life book memories:)

Can you guess what SPECIAL thing happens today?

2009-07-09T08:17:00.001-05:00

Its a very special day for the Gibson Family. Can you guess?

1 MORE DAY TO GO!

2009-07-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Who loves Mr. IPod Touch? He's the cream in my coffee today:)

Girls night out... great friends, lots of laughs & sushi!

2009-07-08T23:21:00.004-05:00

What a fun night with amazing friends and amazing sushi!! We are all bonded with adoption and Africa in unique and special ways.

Kelly, Juju, 'bec and me:)

2 DAYS LEFT TO WIN RAFFLE!

2009-07-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

I want to thank every one of my bloggy friends for contributing toward my Haiti mission trip and the Haitian orphanage. We'll keep selling "tickets" for 2 more days. Any overflow will go directly for basic needs and supplies for the orphanage. If you have time, please spread the word. It's a win win for everyone:) As soon as I receive our itinerary, I will share it with you!

Today changed our lives forever... Zoie's Gotcha Day!!!

2009-07-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

Today, 1 yr ago we held in our arms the most beautiful, tiny, precious baby girl from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia! Watch our special moment...

Mr. IPod Touch Meets a Movie Star!! Guess who?

2009-07-07T11:46:00.003-05:00

Can you guess who Mr. iPod Touch met today for breakfast? Two awesome TV starts!

ImageChef.com Poetry Blender

3 DAYS LEFT FOR HAITI RAFFLE CONTEST!

2009-07-07T11:10:00.000-05:00

ImageChef.com Poetry Blender

4 more days left for RAFFLE CONTEST!! Buy your tickets today:)

2009-07-06T10:55:00.003-05:00

4 more days!!! Mr. iPod Touch can't wait to meet his new family soon! We will announce the winner via live video from Sanibel Island, Florida July 11th!
Hurry and get your virtual tickets today!!

GOTCHA DAY FUN!!

2009-07-06T09:00:00.003-05:00

Gotcha Day Party was so much fun for Zoie! Thank you dear family & friends that helped us celebrate 1 year having our precious daughter home.

Thanks 'Bec for the video:)

(more pics to come:)

COME ON OVER TO OUR HOUSE (really!!!) Gotcha Day Party!

2009-07-05T13:00:00.002-05:00

Zoie's GOTCHA DAY PARTY today at 4PM!! Come & help us celebrate Zoie's "Gotcha Day" the day we first met our baby girl 1 year ago!! The party is at our home.... come & go!
We'll be making a special gift for the children at Zoie's orphanage... Kid's Care!
See you soon!
xoxo

I LOVE AMERICA!! Fun, Friends & 1st Fireworks

2009-07-04T09:13:00.000-05:00

120,000 people celebrating America together! Hosted by our incredible church JRA! It was the most amazing fireworks display I've ever seen in my life! Zoie went crazy watching the rockets blast... she loved it! The best part... many new followers of Jesus! What a celebration! WE LOVE AMERICA!

Haiti Mission Trip Video update.... starring me:)

2009-07-03T13:59:00.003-05:00

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 7

2009-07-03T07:00:00.002-05:00

Cookie Monster ransome

Mr. IPod Touch was released by the K-Kauai Pirates after bribes were made with Cookie Monsters for the gang. Mr. Touch was unharmed, but definitely hungry for the yummy ice cream treat. He was joined by some very giddy team mates and even enjoyed a game with 3 lovely new friends. He hopes to come back to kamp next year for more fun in the Ozark sun!

How many raffle tickets does it take to bring home Mr. IPod Touch?
It's all up to you:)

4 Little ET Darlings

2009-07-02T13:45:00.003-05:00

We are home. How blessed to celebrate adoption at family kamp! The staff were incredible and so loving to all our children! We miss you Alexanders and Neals! Thank you Kanakuk K-Kauai for helping us make such amazing memories!

Cruz man

Silly Caden

Miracle Abe

H & Ri Ri

M & H

Amazing Megan & fam

Miss Rea Rea & H

Kelly Pearson & Zoie & me

M & Kyler & C

Mission Trip Raffle Update

2009-07-01T21:54:00.004-05:00

Bloggy friends... I wanted to give you an update and thank you.
We are half way there!

I want to thank you so much for donating toward my Haiti mission trip! I've had so much fun with the raffle and can't wait to find out the winner! 100% of your contribution will go toward my trip and orphanage needs.

If you want to send me a check, please leave me a comment or email for my address.
karigib@gmail.com

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 6

2009-06-30T15:45:00.001-05:00

There has been a Pirate kidnapping! The only way to save Mr. iPod Touch is to buy at least 5 raffle tickets immediately! He needs your help. Let's show Mr. Touch how much we really care! Don't delay.... buy your tickets today!

Pirate Night at Kamp

2009-06-30T15:30:00.001-05:00

Click to enlarge:)

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 5

2009-06-29T06:29:00.001-05:00

Mr. iPod Touch savors the very last drop.
Do you know what is better than a caffeine jolt... drawing the winning "ticket"

1 ticket = Tall jolt
10 tickets = Grande jolt
50 tickets = Venti jolt

0 calories:)

The choice is yours!

More Kamp Pics (Day 3)

2009-06-28T20:27:00.000-05:00

Zip Line craziness

Pirate Queens.... arrrrr

Fun Games... go H & Ri Ri

Neon Party

Cruz

Swimming beauty

K-Kauai Pics

2009-06-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

Moody & Abe, Rob & Cruz, Rog & Zoie girl

Pool Fun!

Happy 3yrs old Caden!!

Family in the Ozarks

Juju, Emily & me

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 4

2009-06-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

My SWEET RIDE courtesy of Ozark Mountain VIP Limousine Rental.
(Mr. W.i.l.d. Turtle is hurrying to buy his raffle tickets... don't be slow, we have a long way to go)

Abe + Kari = LOVE

2009-06-26T20:03:00.002-05:00

There are no words:)

Congratulations Team Alexander on your referral today!!

KANAKUK K-KAUAI FAMILY KAMP.... we're off!!

2009-06-25T11:00:00.000-05:00

We are so excited to join Team Alexander and the Neal family at K-Kauai Family Kamp this week! My dad is the speaker and we are tagging along for fun in the Ozark sun. What a blessing to have 4 precious Ethiopian darlings together to play and swim and play and play:) We'll keep you drooling with lots of pics.

My computer is going to take a vacation, too. I won't be blogging my normal daily posts, but do have a few Mr. iPod Touch Adventures that will pop up and surprise you.

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 3

2009-06-25T07:00:00.013-05:00

Mr. Ipod Touch had a slight emergency today and had to get an APP removed! It was a little painful, but he's recovering nicely. He's been ordered to bed rest, so we'll look forward to hearing from him soon.
Thank you Dr. Rick Tallon!

Spread the raffle news & stay tuned for Mr. Ipod's next adventure.

(4 the non-techy an APP= the fun programs that are available & free on the iPod Touch/iPhones.)

My brother. My Bloggy hero... he saved the raffle!

2009-06-24T15:46:00.011-05:00

Bloggy friends, I wanted to give you front row seats to the drama of my day. I received an email from Paypal and they have tagged me a "gambler!" They say I'm gambling with a raffle on my blog and using Paypal to collect & send out "tickets!" I know I know.... the entire idea is ludicrous, but they did it all the same. I have called Paypal and explained what I'm doing for my mission trip fundraiser and they now understand that I'm not a professional dealer and wheeler. However, due to using the word raffle in all my crazy posts and photos, they will not allow me to use the paypal button. The Mr. Ipod Adventure must go on!

Noooooo worries.... your gracious donations are safe & sound in Paypal World. I'm going to honor Paypal and use a different way to allow my dear family and friends to "buy their cyber raffle tickets" and win the big prize:)

My amazing and wonderful and techy brilliant and fellow blogger brother has graciously created the adorable "Donate Today" with Awesome H and all donations will continue to be 1000% safe and sound. He saved the day!
He has made it super easy and added more choices for you to WIN Mr. IPod Touch. Drawing on July 10th.
Thanks little bro!!

Wednesday WOW Recipe... Breakfast Pizza

2009-06-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

My family loves breakfast for dinner. This tasty pizza is loaded and it's semi-homemade!

1 can (10) biscuits
1 lb sausage; cook & drain
1 12oz pkg. frozen hashbrowns; thawed
2 cups mild cheddar cheese; grated
4 eggs
milk- splash
salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Grease bottom of 9 x 13 pan. Spread out biscuits to form a crust. (I sometimes bake crust for 5 min. so I don't worry about sogginess) Put sausage in; crumble thawed hash browns. Next, mix eggs & milk, salt & pepper to taste. Pour over hash browns; put cheese on top. Bake uncovered 20-25 min. or until crust is golden brown.

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 2

2009-06-24T07:00:00.006-05:00

My Amazing Day at Rivercut Golf Course!

The Pro Shop set me up. (thanks Meg)

Warming up at the range.

Can't wait to hit the links... where's Tiger?

Cooling off with a cold one.

HOLE IN ONE!!

"I can't believe Mr. Ipod Touch beat me!"
*Golf Pro Rick Grayson*

My lucky day.... how will I get this thing home?

How many "tickets" will it take to bring this handsome techy dude home?
Don't delay:)

Mr. IPod Touch Ozark Adventure: DAY 1

2009-06-23T09:00:00.005-05:00

Mr. IPod Touch is taking a few weeks to vacation in the Ozark Mountains. A real adventure. He's going to see some shows and sights and take full advantage of his R & R. He'll be packing up soon & moving to his special new home, but wants to savor and enjoy the slow paced country life:)

Mr. IPod Touch got the last room! Whew!!

Mornings on the lake.

Meeting new friends.

Stay tuned for some fun trip pics from this crazy techy dude!!!
BTW... don't forget to order your raffle tickets today.

My iPod Touch raffle CONTEST STARTS TODAY!!

2009-06-22T07:00:00.015-05:00

Bloggy friends, I'm so thrilled to share with you my Haiti adventure!! The mission trip I'm going on Aug. 24th is organized by Mission of Mercy and they are investing time and energy and resources to the orphanage our church family sponsors. We will be simply serving and loving children at the Haitian orphanage. I would be so honored if you contribute by CHEERING and PRAYING and JOINING in on the fun of helping me reach my goal of $1,300 for the mission trip.
We're all in this together.

RAFFLE CONTEST...

Just add your name & address & phone number!!

The raffle will end July 10th... Zoie turns 18 months old that day!!!!!!!!
You win a BRAND NEW iPod Touch and so much more.
100% of your contribution will go toward my Haiti Mission Trip. Any additional money raised will be donated to the Haitian orphanage... hand delivered by me.

Thank you for helping me chase a WILD GOOSE ADVENTURE!!
On your mark get set GO.....

Quote from my church about the mission trip:
"We have an exciting opportunity to partner with Mission of Mercy and bring new hope to children in Haiti! This is an amazingly new effort to reach forgotten children in the poorest country in the Western hemisphere. Together, we can impact the lives of hundreds of children by sharing the love of Jesus."

SIMPLY SUNDAY. HAPPY DADDY'S DAY!!

2009-06-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Daddy, we love you with all our hearts!!!

Skinny-Dippn + Cousins + Birthdays = Fun Family Pics

2009-06-20T12:00:00.006-05:00

We are having such a fun summer....so blessed to have family in town!
Mimi, have noooo idea how we missed u in pics- you were here for 2 weeks:)
Send me one QUICK! lol

3 little mermaids

Aunti M

Tay Tay & H

Birthday girls:)

What crazy things are you doing for summer fun in the sun??

RAFFLE PRIZE PICK.... we have a winner!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

THANK YOU for all your suggestions!!!!!!!!!! The winning prize pick is............. iPod Touch!!!
I'm so honored & excited to join the JRA team and serve in Haiti. I'll share more about the mission trip, too. (I leave Aug 24th)

OK... for all you less than techy-savvy geniuses (like me) here's some additional information about the
BRAND NEW 2nd Generation iPod touch:

This player is the iPod touch, not the Apple iPhone
8 GB capacity for 1,750 songs, 10,000 photos, or 10 hours of video
Up to 36 hours of music playback or 6 hours of video playback when fully charged
3.5-inch widescreen multi-touch display with 480-by-320-pixel resolution
Supported audio formats: AAC, Protected AAC, MP3, MP3 VBR, Audible, Apple Lossless, AIFF, and WAV; supported video formats: H.264, MPEG-4; supported image file types: JPEG, BMP, GIF, TIFF, PSD (Mac only), and PNG

Raffles starts with a BANG on Monday morning!!!