10 Things That Are Happening Right Now

It's been awhile since I've had a family update with randoms and casuals from our daily lives. I've been challenging myself to take a picture everyday for a year in "the broersma 365," which is a great way to remind ourselves of the happenings through pictures. But, sometimes, that too misses the big and little landmarks we as a family have encountered lately. To get you caught up, here are 10 things that are happening right now in our home. 

1. All Comer's Track Meet at Civic field sparked my interest and we registered the kids for a few Monday nights this summer. I did this as a child and probably still have blue ribbons tucked away somewhere from the shot put, hurdles, long jump and high jump. It's a great way to have family fun and  challenge the kids in something they've never done before.

2. Potty training has begun and I promised myself that the box of diapers I bought at Costco this week would be the last, if not second to last box purchased.

3. Since Melissa and Mickey moved out, the kids have been busy planning their move downstairs with Daddy making sketches and plans of these elaborate big kid rooms. Everything is subject to Mommy approval prior… And good behavior, chores done and maybe a few back rubs too. 

4. I've been dealing with some wrist pain from a combination of working, having over-worked muscles and pushing myself too much. Honestly, it's quite frustrating when you've worked for years with no problems and use your hand, arms, shoulders with every little thing daily from washing dishes, picking up toys, folding laundry, cutting hair and when I do wear my brace, even wiping yourself. I was seeing a hand therapist in Bellingham, but got the creepers so, I asked our good friend up north to assist in my pain management. His plan was to not wash dishes for 6 months (insert sarcasm) and not cut hair until the issue has been fixed. I've since been cutting back the hours I work from home in my salon (reluctantly) and try to wear my wrist/thumb brace as much as I can. I've also had some severe shoulder pain, but have found massage to help in that pain relief. 

5. Tim has been busy traveling for work building business relationships and negotiating more projects. He moved the sales office into The Dutch Village Mall as they ran out of space in the Lynden Floor office areas. Addi has been in charge of feeding the fish and thankfully we haven't had any floaters…yet. One of the trips Tim took was to the Arbor Day Foundation in Nebraska where I now have some new running friends!

6. I'm currently training for 2 races: The North County Road Run 25k (that's 15 miles folks) in August and a 10K race in Nebraska, in September, with the Arbor Day running gals (this will make the 3rd state race in my goal towards all 50 states by the age of 50).

7. I've been gathering curriculum for next years school year as Addison moves into 4th grade and Charlie into 1st grade. It will be the first year they attend on campus classes with Meridian Parent Partnership Program on Mondays and Wednesdays. Organizing both kids' student lesson plans is time consuming, mind engaging and exhausting as both Tim and I want to push both kids, want the best for them and provide them with a challenging enough program here at home. Feels good to be organized and ready for the fall!

8. Addison and Charlie are signed up for swim lessons again this summer with Shannon Vogt and Charlie will be participating in a basketball camp through YMCA as well. I love that the kids are showing more interest in outside activities, but also thankful they each have their own personalities and strengths.

9. I love summer and all the beauty that comes with the hot weather. Charlie and I went in search of a swimming pool big enough for all three kids and found a great deal at Kmart…Tim's more concerned about the dead grass it will create. My hydrangeas are in bloom which are my absolute favorite! Because of Tim's busy schedule, we've had a few guys come and mow for us. I miss seeing and hearing Tim play his air drums as he used to mow and sing, but do find it nice to come home and find the yard done. I've been tending to the flower beds which I find relaxing and satisfying when completed. 

10. I'm repainting a bench and have too many different ideas thanks to Pinterest. Need to find fabric first as the seat needs to be recovered, then figure out where to put the bench or keep it in the same place and then finally paint according to fabric color. I've been in search of some old barn wood to complete a few more craft projects as I find that to be cheap therapy and thoroughly enjoy being creative. 

A Tropical Thank You

Thirteen years ago I met a young gal who was in desperate need of some hair help and a friend. I had the privilege of seeing styles change along with her own life as well. From short to long, brown to blond and even a few added copper high lights, the two hours in my chair gave me many years of opportunities to learn more about Melissa and speak life into her. I was able to see her mature as she headed to San Francisco for school and then come back to trade services with foils for facials. As the years continued to pass by, I witnessed Melissa suffer the loss of her father, meet her ex-husband and shortly after, meett her newborn daughter Michaela. 

A friendship had started after the first haircut and our lives continued to cross each others pathways many times over. 

About three years ago, I encouraged Melissa to attend a mom's group meeting at our church. It was the start of a journey still being walked and experienced. I believe God has placed certain people in her life for many different reasons; each one with different qualities and characteristics. In the moment, you don't see the connections from one person to the next, but after time, the pieces to the larger puzzle start to click. Whether they be a one-time meet and greet or a lasting friendship that grows over time; some people make a lasting impression that may change the course of your life. 

Melissa has changed my life and our families lives from the moment she stepped foot in our home. 

She may think the opposite. 

Almost two years ago, I got a phone call in a distressed moment to meet Melissa and then months later another call. It was the day before, that our younger sister had moved out. On this day, without hesitation or question, God placed a young mother and her daughter in need of a pillow in our home. It was a wee bit crazy at first as my cousin was also living with us. God always gives you what you need for the moment and he gave us space, patience and understanding. 

It has been an absolute honor to walk the past few years with Melissa as she navigates the new journey in front of her. Tim and I have cried alongside of Melissa, laughed because that's the only thing left to do and have taken leaps in our faith watching God offer grace, forgiveness and given us what we all needed in our distress. God has rejoiced with us and proven faithful. Our hearts have been softened, stretched and expanded. We've always been given exactly what we needed in all of our ups and downs. 

To watch one who was so broken become whole again, is one of the best rewards a friend and sister can experience. Our children are better for the many years we've opened our doors to family. We see compassion as their best quality. The kids have extended their space to others and have made those in our home feel like family. 

That is exactly what Melissa and Michaela have turned into; family. And that is exactly why it's so hard to see this next chapter begin. As we get these two settled into their own little home, it brings out many emotions. Tim and I are beyond excited to see Melissa start this new journey, in her new home. But, it feels like our oldest daughter is moving out of the home and we are left with an empty nest. For over six years we have had people living with us and this new change leaves our basement empty. Having this little family grace our home has been a blessing to all five of us. As we thought about how to send them off and to bless these two as they have blessed us, we were left with only a list of things needed. It was then the timing of a business trip and some coordinating on my part, came together for the best send off gift possible. 

With all the details in place, tickets purchased and hotel reserved, Tim and I surprised Melissa with a short, four day trip to Hawaii as a time for us to tell her how important she is in our lives. What made it even sweeter was our friend, trainer and employer Christie, joined in on the fun! The shock lasted all weekend until we stepped off the plane in Kona and breathed in the warm hibiscus air. The girls had never been to Hawaii before which made this so much fun for me to be their host and taxi. 

To be able to bless these two, who have made such impact in my life, was more of a gift to me than them.
My goal was simple: get these two to unwind, relax and have fun. 

Success.

Too often, we find ourselves getting busy with our lives and run out of time to tell someone how we feel. This trip for Tim and I, was our opportunity to show and tell Melissa how much we love her. The three of us ladies quickly changed into suits and found the resort lagoon where we saw fish, swam, floated and cooled off. The next morning after we purchased our "lazy boards," we found our spot back in the lagoon to float away our worries as we ended up doing more laughing than worrying. I had the delicious chance to introduce the ladies to Lava Java and then drive them to a public beach where we snorkeled with turtles. The beauty can't be mistaken or hidden and the only one who could possibly create such color is God Himself. Just minutes from our hotel is the University of the Nations and the Kona YWAM base where we attended Thursday night Worship. We didn't realize until we sat down that it was their graduation ceremony for ten high school students and about eight college students where some have studied in over ten countries to complete their degree. Pretty cool stuff happening in the tropics and around the world!

It was the final night over our "chicken wow wow," where the tears from all three started rolling. 

All three of us come from different family backgrounds, have experienced different relationships and have suffered pain unlike the other. But, the purpose of the trip was not to realize we experience pain in life and have scars to prove it. The purpose was to reflect, pause and remind those around us that God is indeed so good to us. Our surroundings were a physical reminder. The friends were God's gift to me. So, with the tears wiped and plates cleared we headed back for our last rest in the tropics. One last breakfast at Lava Java and stop at the ABC store and off to the airport we went. Tim gave up his upgrade to Melissa who is now forever ruined sitting in first class. Christie had the spoil alert on the way there. Some are crispier than others and we all have many thanks to aloe cream. Most of Melissa's belongings are moved and set in their new place. The cabinets are now full and our basement nearly empty. Overwhelming for her at best. 

Thirteen years in the making of this now lifelong friendship. Many lessons learned and taught. Tears wiped and laughter had. Tim and I have prayed daily for these two daughters. 

Our continued prayer is this:

Melissa, we pray you understand the importance you have in our home. We pray you know how important you are in God's eyes and how precious you are to your Heavenly Father. You're beauty inside and out has been seen by many and has not gone unnoticed. You are an amazing mother to Micky and even though there are times of frustration, you hold your ground and walk each situation with grace and extend mercy. The potential within your reach is beyond any of our comprehension and God is wanting to bless you immensely. You have sought His guidance and He will give it to you in times of need. Keep your eyes on the cross and God will give you everything you need. Wants may be for later. Tim and I pray that this new start will not overwhelm you, but excite you for your future. We pray your time in our home has been positive, uplifting and hopefully not embarrassing! You have graced our home with your quick wit, OCD, passion for Ben & Jerry's and constant humming of song. You have without question offered help with our kids and chores. Thank you for allowing our lives to merge. We pray for God's protection and blessings over your new little home.  Adjustments may happen, but God's love has never failed and never will. 

"weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5

We rejoice with God for the growth in your life and the forgiveness shared with others. We rejoice for the spiritual depth had in your personal walk with the Lord and, with pride welling, call you sister and friend. Thank you for allowing us to walk beside you in one of the most painful moments of your life. It may not be something you can use in your new home, but showing you God's canvas was rewarding in itself. 

God has big things in store for you and Michaela. There is no doubting of that fact. You have overcome many things in your life, sought guidance and teaching for advice, and we are so proud of you for your personal accomplishments. God is looking down and smiling because His daughter found her Home. It's not a four wall building or found around a dinner table. Home is found when you have a personal relationship with Christ and God will always make His way clear to you no matter how messy life gets here on earth.

We are blessed because of you and Micky Doodle. Know you are loved by many who see the exact same things we have seen over the past two years. 

Walk humbly, show compassion and extend grace and forgiveness when needed. 

Aloha. (tears…)

Welcome to your Home Sweet Home.

The Red House

I was given three weeks notice that we were moving to the "red house," before we unloaded the truck and moved once again to our new home. I was pregnant at the time with Charlie while Addi was a few days from turning three. She was so excited for this move and to have the big back yard to play in!

The outside was gorgeous with endless yard and creek access. The inside...well, it needed some updates and a paint job. With the help from family and friends, Tim got the upstairs completely painted, wood floor and carpet installed, bathroom remodeled and the fabulous chandelier replaced.

It was amazing how quickly we settled and planted roots into the "red house."

The oasis at the dead end street became what is secure, stable and comfortable for our family.  

Addi struggled to meet the neighbors as she at the time, was working through her selective mutism. After a few years of being in the neighborhood, she made what is now the best friend for life. Addi Jean and Annie Jean, just a mere two months apart in age, are inseparable, often are matching in outfits and seem to never tire of one another. Annie and Jordan would often stop by before Addi found the courage to speak, and would invite her to play never giving up on the new kid on the block.

Charlie eventually became the new kid finding himself playing the baby of house, pet shops or whatever the girls asked him to do. Brevin, five years older, adored little Charlie and took him under his big kid wings riding bikes, scooters or shooting hoops together. Age doesn't seem to matter at the dead end. It's a team of kids that circulates between three homes and welcomes Nellie Newbies as one of their own. Add in Mini Spice and the kids go crazy roaring, "MYRIAM!" as she tries to blend her toddler size in with the bigger kids...most of the time chasing them with just or no diaper on!

Addison had her first day of preschool at the "red house" and has continued to 'WOW' us with her learning capabilities as she just wrapped up third grade. Charlie has only known home as his school and eagerly awaits his friends as they are dropped off the school bus in the afternoons.

Much has changed since we moved in almost seven years ago.

The backyard used to be occupied by huge trees and a large center flower bed. Now, it's wide open with green grass and a trampoline the kids spend endless hours on with friends and family. The swings were hung between the cedars and the infamous S'moresma fire pit was carefully laid with stones. With our revolving door welcoming new members to our family, we needed more space and gutted the basement adding two bedrooms, a home school space and my quiet sanity room or craft room as most people call it. The remodeled space provides comfort, less spiders, more natural day light and an area for the kids to play, build sleepover forts and hang out with each other.

The "red house" has gone through many remodels, but not just on the construction side of things.



As any parent knows, relationships are tested and stretched with every child. It's no secret our marriage was put through the ultimate test of betrayal seven years into our union. It was also the year our coffee pot died and crock pot went out along with the holes in the towels too. Maybe that was God's humor in the pain, but there was a serious seven year itch going on that left lifetime scars in our hearts. Without the remodel of our marriage, our relationship would not be as strong, Christ-centered or solid as it is today. Tim and I had to endure some major set-backs, hardships and time to look differently into our lives in order to have the growth we have now.

There's been health issues, cancer treatments, discouraging doctors reports, family deaths, career growths and start-ups along with the expansion of our extended families. We've had ministry opportunities placed at our feet from the simple act of quieting ourselves...listening...and seeking obedience in our faith.

The "red house" has given me perspective and symbolizes sacrifice and security. Many times we don't understand what we had until it was lost. There have been many times in the past seven years where I almost lost something to realize the importance of it in my life. My marriage had to die to itself, in order to be redeemed by the atoning blood, so it can flourish as it is today. My Hero has undergone countless chemotherapy treatments making our relationship stronger than it ever has been before. I had to sacrifice my career to be blessed with sweet kisses from our jewels every morning, all day long. It was the "red house" that transformed Tim's heart allowing the idea of adoption to penetrate his heart welcoming home our sassy Myriam.

Our perspective has changed, grace has been extended, sacrifices made and overall, security has been found, rooted and shared with others...

 all in the "red house." 



"But as for me and my houeshold, we will serve the Lord."

Joshua 24:15

The Blue House

After signing closing papers for the "yellow house," Tim and I found a smaller home to rent as we tossed the idea around of building or buying. It was a limbo home for us. 

Through word of mouth we found the "blue house" to rent from a local, Christian couple who allowed us to renovate the dated place. With a weekend of new carpet, paint and some tile updates, the place was ready for six month old Addison and her parents to move in! At the time, Tim was traveling with his quartet so it was a bit hectic for me as others helped me transfer things over. 

As much as I missed our first home, there were benefits to our new home as well. A fenced in back yard, enclosed attached garage, newer in style and smaller to clean and a first and last MASTER BATHROOM! Yes, it was the start to the declining in size kitchen, but the place was perfect for us and I really did enjoy our two years spent on Vine Street. I had an Aunt and Uncle that lived a few doors down and grandparents that lived a five minute walk away. We had no responsibilities to do yard work and honestly the person who had lived there before made rock flower beds so besides the grass, there was nothing to do. We did make a small change to the front corner bed and of course I had to have some coloring flower pots to spice it up. The "blue house" with the metal roof was a refreshing, easy sit and rest home. 

Addison had her first birthday at the "blue house" and Tim started the short lived hobby of owning boats there as well. Hindsight should have had us making different decisions but at the moment, the memories made on "Realtime" were enjoyable. I grew up in the San Juan Islands as my parents have always had a boat. It was natural for me and in a way sent me back to my childhood. Unfortunately, with busy schedules and commitments, the boat didn't get used often enough to justify the cost and we ended up selling. Tim's quartet became the 2005 World Champions in Salt Lake City and their shows became a demand which brought on more international traveling and statewide shows as well. This group of people were family to us as the guys spent time weekly rehearsing and the women shared parenting together. A month after Addi turned one, we headed to Australia and New Zealand for 17 days with all the Realtime family. What amazing memories we made! There was also trips to California with the group as the ladies took the kids to Disneyland for a day and local trips too.

 { The beauty of a metal roof is the snow slides right off! }

{ "Realtime" with our little family in Friday Harbor }

In August of 2007, Tim had a trip to Russia with the quartet. Before he left, I was given a couple of weeks notice that we were moving to yet another new place. Without much notice or option, I started packing the house and wondering what is in store for us at the next place. The day Tim got home we moved. At the time I was also 3 months pregnant with Charlie…exhausting.

Looking back, I see the "blue house" as a transitional home, but also as if God was giving us a chance to set things in a different direction. Instead, it became a home where things became patched up, hidden and disguised for others not to see. As simple as the house was to keep up, clean and with smaller spaces not store as much stuff, the home became a facade. I myself didn't noticed the act until later. The house sealed secrets within that never came out when living there. In all honesty, the house was pleasant for me as it was easy living. I was happy there. If you were too look at the stages of growing up, this place was the teenage, high school phase where you don't have many burdens. The transition between child and adult. 

To this day, the place still has rock flower beds and a blue tin roof. It probably still has the carpeted patio, tile back splashes and new floor coverings we installed. But we graduated and God had even bigger plans for us and our little family. Box by box, truck load after truck load. We moved our family to the next great adventure. 

And what an adventure it has been…

Her Family Heritage

This weekend, Tim and I had the chance to visit with Myriam's biological grandma's at a beautiful park in perfect Northwest weather. Addison choose to stay home with her girlfriends, but the other two came in tow! Great Grandma Betty is from California so we don't see her often and didn't want to miss the opportunity. We met at a local park and had a fabulous time catching up, sharing stories and making memories. 

Tim and I have been, and always will be, cherishing our adoption relationships. We don't disregard the fact that there are emotions, questions and others thinking it's the wrong move to have an open adoption…BUT, we are doing what's right for us and for Myriam's heritage. Our visit with Fancy and Betty secured our thoughts about why it's important to keep communication open. 

Fancy had a great time pushing Myriam on the swings and catching her on the slide. It was an honor to share our bundle of spunk and fire with the birth family. You'll notice in some of the pictures that Myriam is sporting a dress as well as her short outfit. Her older birth sister grew out of the Hello Kitty dress and wanted to pass it along to Myriam. Once the arms were in the sleeves it stayed on the rest of the day! 

After a few hours, the kids were slowing down and ready to head home. With hugs, pictures taken and well wishes made, we said our goodbyes…and reminders to wear our seat belts too! Yes, as we left the grocery store with our lunch items, Tim forgot to put his seat belt on in time before the fast-acting officer pulled us over as the others watched and laughed from on top of the hill. It made for a funny, and pricey, moment! It also gave me permission to say, "I TOLD HIM SO!"

Myriam was sleeping within five minutes of leaving the park giving us time to pick up some refreshing Starbuck's drinks as we made the drive home. 

We are so grateful for our family and the time spent together. I'm reminded of the hymn that sings…"I'm so glad, I'm a part, of the Family of God…" Our family lives look different when compared side by side. We have different backgrounds and up bringing. 

We are apart of a family that God intended to stay connected not only through blood, but by faith. Adoption is the puzzle piece that has connected us to this family. And what a blessing that has been!

 { Waiting to catch the ferry…why not try some fries! }

 { Great Grandma Betty, Grandma Fancy & the Broersma ladies }

 { James & Fancy attempting a photo with a moving target. }

 { Grandma Fancy & James had many laughs on the swings as they tickled toes and swung high. }

 { Chuckles with his bubble gun as it provided many laughs and entertainment. }

{ Myriam assisting Betty as they check out pictures on her phone. }