All Our kids

Today has been a great day - by far the best here. The kids here have been very responsive- Martin is learning more and more English, which is making things so much easier. It's amazingly hard to set boundaries and expectations with someone who doesn't understand!! But, he's adding more and more words and is understanding commands and requests! We went through his flashcards tonight and he could name 49 of them, and knows probably 50 more that we don't have flashcards for.

Kamrynn is doing well too. She is throwing less fits, which is pretty impressive for an 18 month old. She's too funny! She's giving kisses and says "I love you" all the time!

One of the hardest parts of this journey for Brad and I is being away from Kate and Sam. God has blessed us immensely with them and we honestly love being with them, so it is very hard to go through day after day without holding them and loving on them. I never imagined it would be this hard. Brad and I both have had some hard, good cries over missing them. But, Skype is a wonderful thing. We have been able to talk to them every day and they are doing WONDERFUL! They are so strong and brave. They are handling this way better than most kids would. We are so very proud of them. They are so happy - they have been with Mama J and Papa J camping this week -swimming, going to the movies, getting new shoes - They may not want us to come home - they are getting spoiled! Thanks to all of you who have helped take care of them and those who will be. We could never have left for this long had we not had such an amazing support group who love and care for our kids back home. We are so thankful for you all.

Tomorrow is the day we were suppposed to go to court. It's hard to think about, but we are learning more and more about God's strength and His blessing of endurance! We are still praying and hoping to be home soon. We are waiting to hear from our lawyer to see if August 23 is for sure our set date. We are hoping she calls and says the judge will see us sooner! That would be awesome! But, my prayer today was that God would show me how to be content here. I am so ready to be home, but I know He has much to teach me here. After some good time in the Word this morning, I have felt so much better. I do feel contentment beginning in me.

We love you all! Have a great day!

kasey (and brad, martin, and kamrynn rose)

Lugazi

This is Kasey starting off... what a day! When starting our adoption we were told Africa worked on it's own time schedule. "Africa is Africa" We experienced that today - our driver was scheduled to come at 11 and didn't come until 2:30! We went to Lugazi, the kid's hometown and bio parent's home. I showed Brad where I was living in Lugazi. It was a good visit and a good day, but pretty hard. Please pray for Kamrynn and Martin- they have seen and lived through so much. I can't even imagine what all they've been through. I am thankful to be their parents and am ready to get them to America!

This is Brad...today was harder than I could have imagined. We have been in Kampala since I have been here. Kampala was a major culture shock for me, but Lugazi is a whole different world. There were children as young as 2 lining the streets, there is meat hanging at the outdoor 'markets', our dirt roads in the country would be highways compared to the roads in Lugazi.

Then there is the bio parents house. I thought Kasey was exaggerating the size, but she was not. It is an 8x5 mud hut with no floor. There is a small bed and at least 4 people live there. They are people that love their children and want the best for them. I am amazed at their sacrifice for these children. All they want to know is that they can have contact and updates with them, which we are MORE than willing and wanting to do. Our driver (a Ugandan) was amazed at the conditions they are living in. Someone from their country is amazed that their conditions are so bad, that tells us how bad they are! No pictures or words can desbribe it!

I am also amazed at my wife. She is so strong to have done what she did before I got here. It has been an incredibly eye opening expereince. We shoudl all be grateful for all the LORD has given us, because it is more than you realize!!

Love you all. Thanks for the prayers and support!
Brad and Kasey

The Upcoming Days

Right now we are very much continuing our routine. The days seem faster that way and it progress is being made, especially in the area of learning English. I (brad) underestimated the difficulty of teaching a child English from almost scratch. It is harder and sometimes frustrating, but I have to remember that when I am learning something new it takes repetition, and when you are talking about language that is all the more true.

In the coming days we will be going to visit Lugazi (their home village). I (brad) will meet the biological family, the foster families, and Pastor Barnard who was one of the blessings for Kasey while she was in Lugazi.

We continue to wait for our court date confirmation. And continue to believe God for a miracle. The truth is it is really hard to believe this is going to happen before July 15th when the courts go on vacation, but I know God can do anything. If it is His desire it matters not what I think. I know He can and that is enough (or at least it is going to have to be)!

Kate and Sam are doing very well. They didn't care to talk too us much last night (basically just hi, a little about their day, and that they love us) because they were playing and having fun. As weird as it sounds it makes Kasey and I both happy that they don't want to sit and talk with us very long...it makes us know they are doing well and having fun!!

This is Kasey...I am so enjoying Brad being here! I have realized how exhausted and run down I was now that I can breathe a little easier! Bridgett will appreciate this...it makes me feel good that we are almost to July. When I come home in July, it will be almost August and court should be in August. So, basically, looking at it that way, we are almost home! I am starting to realize that this is not eternity - it just feels like it some days! Thanks for your continued prayers and support. We love you so very much!

Some of you have asked ways to contact us. We have access to both our emails: kaseyreedy@gmail.com or brad@rainbowbaptist.com. You can send us messages or wall post on facebook. Or if you want you can call our Ugandan phone (international rates do apply), you dial 011 256 782 131747. Sometimes it takes a few times to get through...it may sound like a busy signal or it may just sit with no noise and all of sudden someone answers.

Love,
Brad and Kasey

Better Day

Yesterday (Sunday) was a good day for us...We got to go to Watoto Church (watotochurch.com if you want to check it out). It is an English Speaking church that runs around 20,000 people over the course of a weekend at 8 different places. We got to worship with songs that Kasey and I both know and love. It was great to connect with something familiar. The truth is the familiar is God, because He is the LORD of all places at all times!!
We also got my bag with all my clothes...very good.
Last night we a got a great treat, before we went to bed we were able to talk to the congregation at Rainbow Baptist. It was great hearing them and their affirmation of our journey (the truth is they have walked this journey with us and continue to be their for us in SO many ways. Our love for them is inexpressable). Thanks to Jerry for planning it, Rob and Billy for setting it up, and Gary Williams for praying for us.
The kids are also doing great. There is more English being spoken. When we say more the truth is we are talking about 20-30 English words. When Kasey first got them all Martin could do was count to 10 in English. It is fun to hear him begin to us some English phrases before he spouts them off in Lugandan. Kamrynn Rose is feisty and becoming familiar with timeout. They are doing very well.
The days are getting shorter, this is more from Kasey than from me since she was couting down the seconds till I got here. We are developing a rythm for each day which will consist of play outside, school, and walking. And in between those times we will eat wonderful food from Winnie (the cook at the guest house we are staying). We have met so many wonderful people that have touched our lives so greatly, we have been changed forever in so many ways!
We miss Kate and Sam, but we know they are well taken care of. We know that there are so many that love them and are there for them. As a friend said to us, the time that we are away is a very short time in comparision to the time we will ALL have together! God is faithful, our prayer is that we walk in His faithfulness!
Love you all so much
brad and Kasey

More Bad News

Today was an emotional day. It was my first day in country (which there is culture shock, but it has already gotten better) and we went to see our lawyer. We found out that our rescheduled court date is tentatively August 23rd (tentative is because the clerk has filed it, but the judge still has to dockett it on his schedule, but our lawyer feels good that this should be the date). It is hard to hear for several reasons. One that means a lot longer in country. Kasey is planning on flying back on July 24th to be with Kate and Sam and get school going. I am planning on staying the duration (and let me say how awesome Rainbow Baptist is for allowing me to gone this long...pray for God to bless there). It is also hard because the thought is on both our minds that it got pushed back once already, so pray.
Speaking of prayer...we are still praying for a miracle. Our lawyer is not allowed in to see the judges (unless there is REALLY good reason...and although it is a good reason to us, the judge would not see it that way), so if we got in before July 15th, it would be a miracle. We serve a God of the miraculous, so it is not beyond His power...our prayer is that it is His will to move mightly!
This news made for a rough first day for me and was obviously hard for Kasey, who has spend two weeks here getting ready for this date.
Continue to pray!! God is in this no matter the timing, we trust that someday soon all 6 of us will be home together!! Thanks for everything

He's Here!

He made it! It was so good to see him come through that door! After a long flight and a lost bag with all his clothes in it, he made it! His bag should be here tomorrow night. The kids greeted him and went right with him. Kamrynn fell asleep on him in the car and Martin just sat there and smiled! We are back at the guesthouse and settling in to bed. Thanks for your prayer for his safe trip! We meet with the attorney tomorrow at 11 so keep the prayers coming! We'll update as we know more. Thanks again and good night from 2/3 of my family.

Amsterdam

Brad just called and he made it to Amsterdam. He leaves there again in a little over an hour and gets here in 12 hours! It was good to hear from him. We're both ready for him to get here. I'll let you know when we get back to Kampala. It will be probably around 4:00pm your time.

Up too early!

It's too early to be up today! The kids woke up around 6 and I managed to keep them laying down until 6:45 but they are up and at it! I was hoping for a late morning to make the day go faster, but no such luck! But they are happy kiddos this morning! Brad should be arriving in Amsterdam in about an hour and 45 minutes, so I'll let you know when I hear from him. Then, on to Rwanda and then Uganada. He will get here at 10 tonight. Only 14 1/2 more hours! That sounds so long, but I can make it! I had a sweet encouraging email from our adoption director today and the attorney wants to meet us tomorrow morning at her office to discuss next steps. Please be praying. It's at 11:00 am here, 3am your time, so before you go to bed tonight, please bathe that meeting in prayer. I don't know what all we will discuss, but I'm glad she initiated the meeting. I'll keep you updated! Love you all!

On his way!!!

It's official - he's on his way! Yippee!!!!! I'm much more lighthearted tonight knowing that after tonight, I'll be snuggling with my man! We had a good day today. After an emotional start, we just chilled out! It rained today and we moved to a bigger room with a balcony, so we sat outside while it rained and played on the balcony. I got to skype with Kate and Sam. Thanks Cindi! It made my day! They are doing so well - those are 2 amazing kids! They are being so patient. I know this has to be terribly hard on them and they are missing us, but they have so many people loving on them! Please keep it up - that's what keeps me ok here! I pray that they understand that this is in no way saying that they aren't as important to us. I worry about that with them being so young, but I just pray that God will use this to show them His big plan, which involves loving on those who most need it. I know they are excited to meet their brother and sister, but I'm not sure they grasp what's coming! It's going to be a big step for all of us. But one that I think will strengthen our family and community beyond expression. Thanks for your unceasing prayers - I feel them so strongly. I pray alot with the kids here - we need it, and somehow saying it out loud makes me feel better! Martin laughs when I pray and when I get to the end, he copies "Amen" with the cutest accent! His smile is infectious! He's a mess! And Miss Kamrynn is quite sassy! I thought with Kate and Sam being so active that our only chance for calm children was from Africa. WRONG! Never a dull moment with these 2! But they are happy, and that's what's important. They came across happy before when we were with others in the village, but I've seen changes which say they are understanding security and safety. If I'm laying on the bed, Martin comes and lays next to me and just smiles - he just started that in the past 3 days. I think they are starting to realize what family means. I can't wait for all of you to meet them. They are precious gifts. I hope to be bringing them home SOON!!! Pray, pray, pray!!

Emotional Mess!

I don't know why I bothered putting on make-up today because I've been crying all day! This morning I went down to breakfast,and Winnie, the precious cook said, "How was your night?" I started sobbing and told her about our case being cancelled. There was a family from Washington eating and they heard me talking and they came over and laid hands on me and prayed, so I cried more. Then my sweet friend and driver, Farouk came to check on me and I cried again. Each time I think about it, I cry more! I know I'll be better when Brad gets here, but I am so homesick. I would give anything to have my whole family hear. My heart literally aches! We are making the most of the situation. We have had a good day playing and resting. It's raining now, so we're just hanging out. Thanks for thinking of me. I really appreciate all your kind words and encouragement. You have no idea what help they bring! Please pray for Brad's safety flying today and that the next 30 hours will go very quickly! I'm counting on it! I am married to an amazing man! I'm so grateful he's coming to my rescue!

Faith

We are called everyday day to display faith. Sometimes faith in the small things. Sometimes faith in the big things. God calls us to put our faith into actions and to trust him, even when it feels like we are falling and there is no hope. He calls us to trust that He is the hope! Here is how I am displaying faith right now...I am about to walk outside and put two new carseats in our car. Logic tells me, "It can wait because you arent coming home till at least August with your children." My flesh tells me, "It is a futual task to put those carseats in because Kasey will come home alone, and you and the kids will still be in Africa." My spirit is crying out that in this little demonstration of putting those carseats in the car, I am trusting God for a miracle! Display your faith, because God is in control, and whatever He wills is going happen, no matter what anyone says or no matter any circumstance that comes up!
brad

Bad News

We just got a call that our case has been cancelled. The judge hasn't rescheduled the ones he just cancelled. We do know that we are looking at the end of August at the earliest. The problem is...we have a temporary guardianship decree of these kids and we can't leave them - not that we could anyway- that would leave them feeling abandoned again. I'm so frustrated right now. It's not that our judge doesn't want to hear them, he's just got criminal cases that take priority and with the courts taking July 15-August 15 off, that's where we stand. I am so stressed! I want to say that I know this will all work out, but my flesh is so weak right now. I'm stressed about being away from Kate and Sam longer, I'm stressed about financially affording this, and a million other things. I am so grateful that I can be vulnerable with all of you. I wish I could sit here stronger, but I need to have a pity party for awhile! We are not giving up - we are planning on going to the attorney Monday and asking her to petition the judge. It's a long shot- but it's all we've got. Please pray that she's willing to do that and that the judge will have mercy and hear us on July 1. Please also pray that all the details will work out for this process as it is ever changing.
Kasey

Long Days

I have never realized how many things fill my time at home - housework, errands, tv, phone, etc. The days are so long here because we are literally doing nothing but hanging out at the guest house. Today I did go by the embassy to turn in some documents, but other than that, we were here. There is a tv in the lobby, but not much for kids to watch. We are spending a lot of time in our room just playing or resting. I find myself looking at the clock and thinking an hour has passed and it's only been about 10 minutes! I'm trying to maximize time to bond without distractions, but I'm ready for Brad to come so I can have dialogue with someone in English! Conversations with the kids are pretty limited to short phrases! So far, all is still set for July 1! I'm thankful for each day that I go to bed without hearing that there's been a postponement! Tonight I rubbed Kamrynn's back while she fell asleep and usually Martin is already asleep. But not tonight. So I laid down with him and rubbed his back until he fell asleep. Please pray for that sweet boy. My heart hurts not knowing what he's been through. He is very resistant to boundaries at this point. He doesn't like it when he doesn't get his way or if I tell him no. We've had a couple of battles that I've lost, but I'm still winning the war! I keep reminding myself that this is a new thing - boundaries. I probably don't want to know all that he's lived through. I've seen enough to know that he has plenty of reasons to be resistant. He's a sweet boy - I'm praying that God will touch his heart and communicate to him how much he is loved and that our family is something he can rely on. It's hard to express that to him because of language, so I'm trusting God to guide him when I don't have the words! Thanks for praying for that with me. I appreciate you all!

New Diet Plan

Need to lose weight fast? Come to Uganda! Seriously, I know several of you have made comments about me looking smaller - it's true! And no, I'm not trying to! The food is actually not so bad - a lot of rice and french fries! I have learned to make this awesome chicken stew that you pour over rice. Most of their food is some sort of soup over rice. And I'm addicted to Coke now, because they bottle it here with sugar made from local sugar cane! It's amazing! So, it's not that I'm not eating. I'm just walking everywhere, carrying a 25 pound baby! Today, me and the kids walked from our guesthouse down to the market, which was about 1.5 miles away. On the way there, no problem - all downhill. On the way back, carried 2 bags of groceries and Miss Kamrynn, uphill! I'm so physically exhausted! I should be in some serious good shape coming home! I'll need to be to keep up with all 4 kids!
Keep praying for our court to remain on july 1. We heard from the attorney today and she said no news from the judge is good news. So, we're just hanging on that! 3 more days until my man gets here. I cannot wait! I think I might fall apart when I see him. I'm trying so hard to stay strong, but this is the hardest thing I've ever done! Never would I have imagined that I would be alone in a 3rd world country with 2 children, one of which doesn't understand anything I say, dealing with all kinds of paperwork and appointments. But, it's going to be so worth it. My strength is only coming from above and I have to ask for it hourly. But somehow, at the end of the day, I had enough to make it through. God is faithful, and I'm thankful!

Pray, Pray, Pray

First of all this may be an eternally long post so if so I apologize in advance.

The director of our adoption agency called me this morning with some potentially not good news. Two weeks ago they delayed all legal guardianship hearings by a week (that we knew). This past week's guardianship cases they postponed till August (after the Ugandan courts get back from vacation - July 15-August 15). Our case as it stands is still on the docket for July 1st, but the feeling is that there is a strong chance it will be delayed.

Kasey and I both have felt like we will be back home (with the kids) on/before July 15th. I ask the church yesterday to begin praying for that. What I didn't know was Kasey was feeling the same way, so when I told her that yesterday she said, "That is what I believe and am praying for". So God brought us to the same date to pray for independent of each other. We believe this is God pointing us so that we know how to pray & how to tell people to pray!

SO PRAY! Pray fervently that God will show us favor. If it is God's plan, which we believe it is, then no plan of man can stop it!

I also want to share te verses God has led me to today (here is where the preacher in me comes out):

"Now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me...Give me not up to the will of my adversaries...I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living! Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD" (portions of Psalm 27...all of it is good. We don't feel like the judges are adversaries, but their ruling does affect us big time)

"Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice" (Proverbs 29:26 - love this one...God is the one giving this ruling and the timing by which it comes)

"Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare" (Jeremiah 29:5-7 - although this is not an exile for us and we are not going to live there, there is a major sense for Kasey and I that we want to invest in the welfare of the country of Uganda. We want it to prosper and we want to bless these beautiful people as God has blessed us. Uganda is also a place where our family is increasing. I have been overwhelmed with the heart to pray for this country today...even in the midst of what is going on God is reminding me to be humble, unselfish, and reminding me how blessed we are)

There are others, but these have stuck out!

Thank you for your prayers & faith that this God's will for July 1st to happen with us standing before the judge for our guardianship hearing and that we are ALL home by July 15th!

brad

Moved in!

The kids and I are moved into the guesthouse now. I am so glad to be here. I enjoyed my stay in the village, but am excited about getting some alone time with kids to really bond. Martin speaks very little English and in the village we were constantly with people speaking to him in Luganda. So, I'm excited to start focusing on English. The kids are great. This week will probably seem eternally long waiting on Brad, but I get to take a shower with running water tonight and use a real bathroom!! So, I'll make it! Thanks for your prayers and support!

Kampala

I know some of you have been waiting on your daily dose of "Kasey's Adventures in Uganda", but she blew her converter and has been saving her computer battery for conversations with us. Tomorrow she will be in Kampala and able to get the convereter so she can charge it.
Speaking of Kampala, the paperwork is almost done for her to make the move to Kampala, so tomorrow night she should be there with the kids. Pray for her in this move.
Also I am leaving this week (on Kasey and I's 10 year anniversary). Pray for Sam and Kate (basically that they don't get too spoiled by grandparents).
Also pray that our court date stays July 1st. I know Kasey mentioned this the other day, but continue to pray for it.
Our prayer this week has become also that we will be back in the States by July 15th. That may be a lofty task, but we serve a lofty God and Kasey and I both came to this date independent of each other and believe God is leading us pray for this. So join us
As for Kasey and the kids, they are GREAT! There have been a couple of long days due to not much going on, but it makes for a typical summer :)!
We love you all and continue to see God using you to bless us by interceeding on our behalf! Thanks!!
brad

Wild!

I took the kids to get their medicals started today - TB test, the rest to follow on Monday. My driver and new friend Farouk went with me. I'm so grateful to him - otherwise I would be lost! We waited 2 hours to see the doctor and then were only in her office for 5 minutes! Kamrynn went first and whimpered a bit,but was fine. Then... it was Martin's turn and he was not such a fan of the needle! I had to pin him down along with a nurse while the doctor gave the test. The entire time, he was screaming something in his native language that I later found out meant "You better let me go mommy or I'll bite you!" Great..I'm the bad guy! Afterwards, the poor guy was trembling and I just held him and kissed him, assuring him he was ok. Going back Monday should be fun! Highlight of my day - while in Kampala this morning, a very large African man comes up and stands next to me. I held onto the kids a little tighter and my money bag because I felt a bit intimidated and we were unaccompanied at the time - our driver was pulling around. He stood there for a few seconds and then said, "Excuse me. You are very welcome here. I want you to know that you are the prettiest family I've ever seen!" I almost cried- so very touching! Thank you for your continued prayers. We found out today that this week's legal guardianships have been moved to next week. We haven't heard any news on our case being moved. If it was delayed a week, that wouldn't be a big deal. But the court goes on holiday from July15-August 15,so it would be bad if we got delayed past July 15. Just pray that ours is unaffected and that we will still be set for July 1! God is faithful and He will bring us through! Love you all!

Boundaries

This is Brad...Kasey is going to bed and is getting up early tomorrow so I said I would post for her.
Her and the kids continue to do very well. The hard part right now is that the children feel VERY comfortable with her (they even both gave her kisses today for the first time), but as we with kids know comfort brings testing of the boundaries. So pray for her that she will know how to do this with two children that she only met 6 days ago.
She went to the Nile Falls today (which the pictures are BEAUTIFUL) in Jinga and to the Karama house (a children's home started by our adoption agency). Our church (and I commend RBC for this) is helping to meet many of the needs of the Karama House and we will get to see that take place while we are in Uganda.
I know there is more she may want to add, but I wanted her to be able to rest! Thanks again for your prayers! Love you all!
brad

so tired...

Today was super busy. I went to Martin's school which blew me away. There are about 60-70 4 and 5 year olds in a class! Absolutely amazing! It was a fun experience. The kids were so excited to see me! They sang for me and showed off what they are learning. Then we went to see the probation officer and I had my first series of questioning about our process. I hate interviews! We then walked to the sugar factory, which is about 3 miles from where we are staying. Martin walked the whole way and I carried kamrynn, so we were both exhausted! On our walk, I discovered an amazing private golf course, which I was able to obtain permission for Brad to play because Americans are like celebrities here! It was hilarious- they said they will bring in a cook to prepare whatever we want to eat and will have a caddy ready. I was cracking up - they think we are rich! If they only knew!! The course is beautiful - I think it will be fun. And for all you golfers, it's only costing about $10 American dollars! The kids are great - they are comfortable now and I'm having to start disciplining some, which no one is happy about! But, it's going well. I am ready for my entire family to be together...hopefully VERY soon! This trip is teaching me alot. I am blessed, I am blessed, I am blessed. I have met some precious people here and I will miss them very much. I am so glad that God sent us on this journey. I will never be the same again. Maybe cleaner and cooler, but never the same!

Grateful

Today I went to meet biological parents. Wow. First, I am so humbled by who they are. Probably 2 of the sweetest people I have ever met. They were so gracious and welcoming. Their home is a mud hut that is about 8 by 5 feet and there are 4 living there. They have 2 older brothers, one around 16 and one 6. they also have an older sister that is grown with a child. This is hard for them because they do love the children but have no way to provide what the kids need. Their main concern was that people have told them how evil America is as far as morals. They were very relieved to know Brad was a pastor and that we raise our children to love and follow the Lord. You could see releif all over the dad's face. I hope we get to go back in the future to visit and minister to this precious family. I also went to market today and saw bargaining at work. I have a 19 girl staying with me to help me translate to Martin because he knows very little english and she also helps me with cultural and living arrangements. I wasn't sure how you bathe or use the restroom without running water, but now I do! People here think white people are rich so they try to charge more for things. At the market today, one lady told me the carrots were 10,000 shillings (between 4 and 5 American dollars) Maureen stepped in and said "No, we will give you 2,000!" She saved me all kinds of money today. People here are fascinated by me. They keep coming up and saying "You really love our African babies" and i say yes, to which they reply "Oh, that is so very kind" i want all of you to come with us next time. this is something everyone needs to experience. I learned how to cook rolled eggs today, which are awesome! And Ifed my babies their first American meal ----Spaghetti, which was quite a success! Kamynn tries to eat the dish as well. People all over come up and say "You have a fat baby" And she is . Dr.Davis might not like that on her growth charts! But they are healthy and happy. Many of you have asked, yes, we are still naming her kamrynn- I have been hesitant to use it yet because there are so many people involved here that know her as Rose, and I don't want ot offend. But her name with be Kamyrnn Rose Reedy and he will be Nkeera Martin Reedy but will go by Martin.I know some of you have gotten to see actual face pics through email. I know that you think I have the prettiest babies and it's true! i am one blessed mommy. Martin doesn't speak much english, but when I tuck him in at night i pray for him. He then touces my face and says "I love you mommy" in a way that makes me sob everytime. And Kamrynn sleeps with me and I may never get her out. She feels the need to touch me at all times and will periodically wake up and get in my face and say Mommy,mommy,mommy over and over until she falls back asleep. I can't believe it's only been 4 days with them and we are so close. You will love them. We certainly do!

Busy Day!

Today was very busy! We left Lugazi at 6:15 to get to Kampala and beat the traffic! We didn't arrive there until 8:20 and it is only about 30 miles! This area is very overpopulated, so it's crazy driving! Meetings went great with the attorney and the embassy introduction. I was nervous because the kids are very active and I wanted them to be calm so that I would look exceptional! :) They did well and te lawyer even said she was amazed at how bonded they were after only 2 days. She asked Martin who I was and he said "Mommy!" She asked if he wanted to come live with me in the United States and he smiled huge and said yes.
Rose cries now when I leave the room which is awesome! I know that sounds awful, but it makes me feel like we are getting so close!
I am ready to see all of you again, but this is an amazing trip so far. I have learned so much and am truly appreciative for all I have! I stick out here unbelieveably. People call me a mozungo (spelling?) That's the word for white here and they act as if I'm a celebrity. When I am walking down the road, literally people flock around me and follow me! It's hilarious! And all the kids ask for "sweeties" because they think all Americans have candy! So if any of you want to send candy with Brad, I'm quickly running out!
Thanks for following. I'm going to try and put up a picture. I know this is a private blog but I'm still hesitant to put their faces until they are legally ours, but I have one of their backs. Rose is so little in height - about the height of a 9-12 month old, but is fat! She is more like 18-24 around the middle. Martin is about a 5t. I know some of you have wanted sizes, so that's what I know! Thanks agian for all the prayers and support!

Great Night

Kasey is on her way to Kampala right now to meet with Dorah (our lawyer) and go to Embassy. It is 7:30 AM there.
She said she had a great night and all is well!

Sunday in Uganda

I tried to publish this post most of the day, but had an issue that is (obviously) fixed...

Kasey had a great day in Uganda (she can elaborate later on some of the things I say).
She went to church with Barnard and Issac today and had a great time. She gave a testimony at church (with Isaac's coaxing) and I am sure it was great!! Barnard ask her if I would like to preach while I was there..."YES I WOULD"!!
She also washed clothes today (not with a washing machine) and went to the market for the first time in Lugazi to purchase some items.
The kids got to play outside with about 6 or 7 other kids and had a great time. Kasey became a quick hit by giving out candy to the kids!
Martin's little heart is shinging through as well! He has been taking the toys that Kasey brought for him and giving them to the other kids in the village...we could all learn a lesson from him!!
Thanks again for your prayers and support in this time!!
brad

Wow!

This has been a great day. I met the kids this morning. Martin met me at the gate with a giant smile! It was so good to finally hold them and love on them. We have been staying at an apartment with a sweet young girl who is staying with me. Martin has been coloring most of the day, and tells me "Thank you mommy"! He doesn't speak much English and has a quiet voice, but is so sweet! And Miss Rose (Kamrynn) is so very active and has been saying "Mommy, mommy, mommy" all day! She kissed the computer when she saw Brad on Skype!:) They are bonding very well. I am so blessed to meet them. I am ready for all of you to meet them as well! Thanks for your continued prayers!
Kasey

The Kids...

We just got to Skype with Kasey, and we got to see the kids! They are doing great! Baby girl is already calling Kasey momma and she is into everything. Martin is taking everything in and checking everything out. They are playing with the toys that Kasey brought and are bonding well! Thanks again for your prayers
brad

I'm here!

Thank you to all who have been praying for me- I am settled in and doing very well! My flights were smooth and I was welcomed by the most precious face when I arrived in Entebbe. I am truly appreciative of my new friend, Farouk! I got my money exchanged, computer and phone set up and had a great lunch today. Afterwards, I went to the market to buy water and diapers for baby girl! I was planning on going to the village today, but have decided to stay one more night in the city - to get rest and touch base with family at home in case I don't have internet access in the village. Because once I get to the village, the children will be staying with me, so I need to be rested. The people here are the most friendly I've ever been around. They keep saying "You are welcome here" which makes me weepy! It was hard today in the city to see the hundreds of street children begging for food, some as young as 1. My heart is already touched by this country. I will never be the same again after seeing what I've already seen. Thanks for your prayers!
Love,
Kasey

She has arrived

I just talked to Kasey and her flight got into Uganda early, so she is there and already at her lodging for the night. They are about 8 hours ahead so it was about 11:30. Pray for a good nights sleep for her...she meets our children tomorrow!!!! Thank you all!!
brad

In The Air...next stop Africa

Kasey made it to Amsterdam about 2 AM this morning. She flew out about 3:40 headed to Entebbe. She should be there about 2:15 PM (Central time). When she lands I will post to let you know she is there safely.
brad

Headed to AMS

Kasey is about to (or just has) taken off for Amsterdam...she should be there about 1 AM (our time).
brad

In The Air

Kasey is in the air...as her trip progresses I will give more updates
brad

Ready!

I'm about to go to bed-tomorrow should be an adventure! Thanks for all the prayers and support! I will keep you up to date as I can. I look forward to introducing you to our new kiddos soon!
Love,
Kasey

HERE WE GO!!!

Kasey is officially leaving for Uganda tomorrow!! At 12:40 PM she is getting on a plane at DFW! She will be arriving in Entebbe, Uganda at 10:15 PM (2:15 PM Central Time) on June 9th! I will be leaving on June 23rd to join her! Look for updates from her about the details of the trip.

Our Blog

Our trip to Africa is not far away...per the request of our adoption agency we need to make our blog not public. If you want to continue to follow please send us your email address and we will add you so you can read the updates! You may have to set up a blogger account, but this is free and doesnt take long. Thanks for understanding!