Wednesday, May 26, 2010

I came on to Blogger...

to post pictures of the beautiful room we just finished up decorating for sweet Grace...

and the closet that is now full of cute clothes that were just delivered for the beautiful girl who we sent an email for exactly 6 months ago, saying, "I know you're going to think we are crazy... but is there any way that you would allow us to adopt "Norah," too?"

I had a comment waiting to be moderated...

And we still see nothing in the terms of Grace as you've posted on the others. No room updates, no website,no clothing bought, no toys bought, no nothing like the others.

I really hope she's treated like a member of the family and not just like a charity case once she arrives.

If I remember right, you said your family was struggling to find room for her, and based on what's been posted, one can only go in what was the nursery for the girls.

Now, remind me. Years ago, you posted the room was very tiny, and just barely big enough for a nursery. Yet, you're giving a toddler your brothers old bedroom, and moving a young pre-teen girl into a shoebox of a room.

Wow.


So Anonymous, thanks for ruining my excitment. I feel no need to justify my family to someone who can't even leave their name... but I will tell you that was just rude ESPECIALLY when you obviously know absolutely nothing about my family or our reasoning.

39 comments:

susieloulou said...

Oh, don't let anonymous get to you. Shine on!!

Amy said...

oh, emily, i'm so sorry you have to deal with people like that. Anyone that knows your family at all knows Grace will be loved and a part of your family as much as all the others!!

so excited for you all!!

Amy Murphy said...

Sometimes people are jealous and sometimes they are just plain hateful. Don't let people who don't think and try to understand before they speak get you down! This person obviously has their own issues and needs to put someone else down to make them feel better about their own inadequacies. The rest of us know you are so excited to see both your new brother and sister come home! Hope you get that TA soon!!!

Jen Barbee said...

Anonymous has made a fool of herself. Don't let her ruin your joy. This is Satan trying to steal your joy. Don't let him!!!

Melissa said...

Don't let those who hide behind their own insecurities affect your happiness. Your family is amazing in my eyes, opening up your homes and allowing these precious children to know God and have a forever family. Grace and Charlie will be so blessed to be in your family!! And we sure enjoy reading up on you guys and how God blesses you!

Heather said...

Gah! How rude! It breaks my heart when ill informed people with no connection to our families or journeys make ignorant hurtful comments. Emily - post those pictures my friend. The rest of us know YOUR heart and that of your family! The enemy can and does use whatever he can to shift our focus for just a moment - don't let anonymous be an effective tool of the enemy! And as for that “shoebox” sized room, ha, I know it is filled with love and attention that your sweet sister will FEEL the moment she steps in the door. Many hours of love, attention and prayer that have covered that space - a space that any preteen girl would LOVE to have as her OWN space! I know my Hanna, although she loves to share with her little sister at times, would really enjoy a “shoebox” all her own , ha! And as a mother of many small kiddos .. I for one understand the thinking and would have arranged things the same. Say hello to your sweet family for us! :) Can't wait to see your with your newest brother and sister - wish we could join you guys again! And yes, the waiting is hard ... still waiting on that 797, sigh!

Anonymous said...

I just go by what I read. I give my opinion. You don't have to like it, just like I don't like what I'm reading and seeing here in black and white about this situation and your "reasoning".

KO said...

People are so psycho. I can't imagine leaving such a rude comment for someone I don't know. Wow! I hope you know that Anonymous is the crazy one!

Keri said...

Unbelievable. People like that are just rude, hateful, and lonely. I know your family and I know that Grace is already loved and cherished. Don't let anomymous steal your joy. That is their goal. Please post the pictures for the rest of us to see. Anonymous will never be happy with your decisions because he/she is so unhappy with their own life/decisions.

Keri

jeanette said...

ugh. I seriously can't believe someone has the nerve to say those things.

those of us that know you and your family KNOW how anxious you are to have this sweet girl in your family.

and I for one cannot wait to see the room and the clothes for this sweet princess.

♥ Kayla ♥ said...

I'm so sorry that some people feel that should butt into other's lives just because they read our blogs. Negativity is a life style that people choose because they are unhappy with their own life. Don't let this person ruin your happiness and that of your family. You can tell just by reading your blog that you cannot wait for both Grace and Charlie to come home. Who knows, maybe we'll cross paths in China as were waiting for TA also.

Melanie said...

Oh, there's a lot of stupid people out there. Don't let that hurt you, don't even pay attention.
Your family is beautiful and you're really happy. Grace is going to have a wonderful life with you and you with her. Just look at your younger sisters =)
So, let's think of that instead of what someone who doesn't know you at all think =)

I hope to see the pictures of Grace's room soon.
By the way, I love the name "Norah" too =)

Jenn said...

I'm sorry stinky-roo anonymous left that ugly comment. I never understand some people sometimes! They must have been having a bad day, so I'm going to pray that their day gets better!

Hugs to you sweet jie jie!

theminders said...

I have been reading about you and your family for years. Please don't let her get to you. Not sure why some people have to be so mean!!!

Pam said...

Anonymous,

My how cowardly you are, to HIDE under the name of "anonymous"~ that certainly doesn't speak highly of your character. Nor does the fact that you feel the need to harass a 17 year old minor. One, as a matter of fact, who has no say regarding who is sleeps in what bedroom in our home.

Your post certainly deserves no reply. We owe you no explanations at all and we certainly won't dignify your comment with one. We have only ONE whom we aim to please and that most certainly is NOT you. HE knows our hearts~ and THAT is all that matters. "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward apperarance, but the Lord looks on the heart." (1 Sam.16:7 ESV)

Since you seem so full of opinions and advice regarding MY family, here is my advice (I'm sure you already know my opinion) to YOU: Move on, and get yourself a life. A life beyond finding fault with others. A life beyond reading a 17 year old girl's blog (for years). A life beyond making incorrect assumptions, and drawing incorrect conclusions about those whom you don't even know. Get yourself a life. A real life. An authentic life. A life beyond yourself. Make your life count for something. Don't spend your life hiding behind the name "anonymous."

Nightingale said...

Emily, ignore anonymous. If the person doesn't have the decency to even leave their real name, then don't bother listening to their comment....Ugh. Your family is wonderful and I know you will love Grace to pieces. She will have a great home and family with you. I am so thrilled that you are adopting her and know that you are excited too.

Anonymous said...

So hard to believe someone could be so spiteful!
Praying that you get to travel for your sweet brother and sister soon.
God is our refuge and strength.
PSALM 46v1

Kristi said...

Emily,
Those of us that know your family won't let you allow anonymous to ruin your joy! Shine on sweet girl! I've talked to your mom ~ very late on some nights ~ as she's hurried through paperwork doing everything in her power to get Grace home ASAP. I've heard the excitement in her voice. And I believe I know you all well enough to know that Grace is going to be a cherished member of your family. I fully believe that the enemy is attacking through mean spirited comments on adoption blogs lately. Don't let him stop you from speaking for the orphans and your siblings!

Lexie said...

There is a lot I could say right now! I felt like puking just reading that! How cold must a heart be to not FEEL the love your family has shining through this blog!?

Ahhh, don't let them steal your JOY though! Lets see those pictures of her darling room! But what I can't wait to see more than anything......the JOY on your girls face as she walks into her HOME for the first time...with a FAMILY standing behind her saying WE WILL ALWAYS BE HERE FOR YOU.

What a blessed blessed little girl and family!

Our family said...

I have to agree that was terribly RUDE!!!! But you are so much bigger than "anonymous". I will be praying for you and your family as I know that has to be very hurtful. I know with time God will ease your hurt and your anger. Now, please show the rest of us what awaits for Miss Grace. What a blessed little girl she will be - not because of what room she has in your home or the clothes in her closet. No, she will be blessed to have your family as her forever family! Praying for Grace and Charlie daily and for that TA to arrive SOON! Jan

Anonymous said...

Emily - I have so enjoyed following your blog for the past few months! You do a wonderful job and are mature beyond your years. Always remember hurt people, hurt people. What a great reminder to pray for this obviously "hurting person". Personally, I can't wait to check in with you each day and I am praying that your TA's arrive soon!

Julie said...

Hiding behind "anonymous" just goes to show that the comment is not to be taken seriously.

My older son has a tiny bedroom compared to his brother's. Like half as big, maybe. But it's by his choice and he loves it.

I'm sure with the love and care that your family will put into Grace's room, she will love it.

And honestly, I can see giving a toddler a bigger room. They have bigger toys and need more room to spread out. All of my teenage son's toys are small and electronic. No more train sets and legos to spread out all over the floor.

Don't let the comment get to you. We would love to see Grace's room and be excited with you.

Robin said...

Wow.. I'm shocked! First, I'm shocked that someone even made that comment because I know for a fact that any room in your house.. and I do mean any room.. would be better than an orphanage. (please take this is the best way). To have a home, a room to call ones own, a family who loves me etc.. Is that not better than the size of a room where one sleeps?
Secondly, I'm shocked that anonymous had the audacity to comment on your mother's comment. RUDE! very RUDE!
I can't wait to see the rooms all completed! And I know Miss Grace will be loved more than anything and it doesn't have to be shown materialistickly

Ashley and Mike said...

Emily,

Why don't you disable the ability for anonymous comments? There is no reason why this person should even be given a forum or an opportunity to give an opinion on anything related to your family. I think he/she has lost that ability.

Ashley

Beth said...

Emily - Wow.

Wondering motive in the comment but.....

Thank you for sharing your family's journey with us...as I have said from the first time I "met" your family when you traveled for AnnaClaire....you are quite mature in your handlings of people like this and grateful that you have chosen to allow us to travel with you. I have learned so much and some day hope to finally make it to China for our own little girl - and experience what your family has been blessed to experience.

So glad we all have the right to our opinions - and I think it is quite clear that the majority is in awe of you and your family!

Michelle Grubbs said...

If you take the time to compair Kate's eyes in the group picture to the right and her eyes in pictures on yesterday blog there is no doubt in my mind that God has blessed your family with a love for these sweet little children...I look forward to seeing Grace and Charlie as they grow in love...the love only a family can give.

Leigh said...

That is so mean! People should never hide behind anonymous. I'm sorry that you had to face this today. Your mom was so right, this person needs to find a life beyond causing trouble as "anonymous".

I have been following your blog for about a year now and love it!
I can't wait to see how Grace and Charlie fit into your wonderful family.

Andea said...

I like your response to Anonymous. What you and your family are doing is Glorifing the Lord. This is satin trying to cast a shadow on God's Glory. I guess some can't handle the glare in their eyes, too bad they don't know what you and I know and that is.....God's Glory cannot be snuffed out or have a shadow cast over it.

Janet and Kevin said...

Sweet Emily,

Don't let anonymous worry you! Just let your heart shine for Jesus and the orphans of this world like you always do!

We share in your excitement about Grace coming home! What a blessing you and Grace will be to each other!

Hugs,
Janet, Kevin, Ted, Philip, and Elijah

Wife of the Pres. said...

Emily, I am so sorry. But yes, SHINE ON!

You KNOW this is just an attack of the Enemy. I have no idea who anon is, whether a believer or not, but you are SHINING FOR GOD (and your family too) and Satan doesn't like it one bit. Remember he prowls like a lion seeking to kill and destroy, and he will use whatever means available to do try to steal your joy b/c he knows he cannot undo what the Father has already said will be.

Emily, you are a fine young woman and this is truly an *opportunity* (I know it doesn't feel that way right now), but it is an opportunity to Count it all joy, to be thankful always.

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." (Rom. 5:3-5)

Nicole said...

I just don't even understand. Why do people get to tell us how to live? Why do people get to be spiteful about adopting? an orphan? who has NOTHING!!!

Seriously, I wonder how many times they've been to China? Seen it first hand? Knowing that honestly they could move here and share a room with 4 kids and it would be FAR better.

I wish people wouldn't even try to tell you how it should be!

Catherine said...

People can be so rude at times and wimpy too, hiding behind 'anonymous' comments. Wish they had the guts to leave their names.

Sadly comments like those do hurt but I'm glad you went ahead and posted the beautiful room post for Grace anyway. Anon is just jealous I'm sure of the beautiful loving family you have. Guess there's another person who needs to be prayed for.

((hugs)) Emily. You and your family are amazing and the love you have for Grace comes through your blog loud and clear!!!

Jeanette said...

Oh goodness gracious, I'm not even sure I know where to begin with this one. I actually typed out a long response but then erased it because I think you and your mom said it well and really that's all there is to say. Actually, there's no need to even have to defend a comment like that. This person obviously doesn't know you and IF they truely cared about Grace and her "living situation" in your home, there is a much better way to ask.

Anonymous, since you've been following Emily's blog for years and "know" all about their living situation, room size, etc. etc., you could have said... "I know you all did such a great job with AC and Kate's room, I can't wait to see what you are going to do with Grace's" OR... "I bet whatever you have planned for Grace's room will be wonderful" OR better yet, if you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all. Didn't we learn that concept in kindergarten?

Oh and Em, I agree with one of the other comments, you may want to consider not allowing anon. comments. These people who hide behind such bold and hurtful statemnts don't deserve a voice on your blog and they don't deserve to try and steal your joy. We love you guys!

Joy said...

Emily,

Okay, honestly I want to fight fire with fire but...I will rise above that!

You and I both know that when you are doing anything that brings honor and glory to God, the devil will attack! So, stand strong and know that you are obeying God's Word!

You are loved! Thanks for sharing your sweet heart with us!

Unknown said...

Emily -

You and your family are indeed with a nice house that has plenty of room for ALL your family.

However - that is not important.

You have room in your hearts - which is most important. The size of one's room, the things they possess are not the measure of love. All your kids will be given temporary things in equal measures - clothing, toys, books, etc. But what carries you forward in life is the love that you receive each and every day - in abundant quantities - from your parents, and that you share with all your brothers and sisters.

Keep up the blog when you can - I know it is super crazy this time of year for a student!!!

Love,
Kathy Crenshaw

Dana said...

I am utterly amazed these days by the audacity of people. It completely blows me away. I thought Pam's response was very well said and that you, Emily have handled all this in a very mature fashion. May God bless you and encourage you with true friends as you wait these last few days to travel.

Anonymous said...

Emily,
So sorry about "anonymous" leaving such a unkind and rude comment. Don't let one person ruin your excitement. I have followed your blog when you brought Kate home,went back to read about AC then heard about Charlie and about fainted with EXCITEMENT about Grace! and I don't even know you but we are sisters in Christ! Praying for your family can't wait to follow along when you travel to bring home your newest siblings!
SHINE ON!
Cullen
From Colorado Springs,Co
mom to four Blessings
2home grown,2 China Blessings

Natalie said...

I agree with all of the comments posted about annon. It's just awful to do something like that.
The room is just beautiful. Anyone would love it. I mean anyone. It shows so much warmth and care.
You are such an awesome young lady. Your family seems soooooo awesome too. I know that Grace and Charlie will love being part of your family.
Keep up your good works and your good spirit.
May the Lord bless you and your entire family.

Robin said...

Wow is right, Emily! It's unfortunate what "anonymous" posted but let me say that it's an opportunity to continue to show your faith. Those of us who have adopted and are adopting only know that God has called us to a particular child for His glory and nobody elses. We are called to step out in faith and He provides. We are called to submit and He provides. We are called to be obedient and He provides. As you know...what He sees in our hearts is all that really matters ever, anyway. So continue to be excited because God is continuing to bless your sweet family! :)

Hugs from Indy,
Robin

PS- I bet Grace will absolutely LOVE her room!