HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY SARAH ELIZABETH!

My Sweet Sweet Baby Girl is 18 TODAY!!!!

What a gift from God she is.

Sarah (and Marc) are not of my flesh and blood, but of my heart. They are a true gift from God; coming to me through Adoption. Their birth parents showed unselfish love by giving their children the gift of life. I continue to pray for them and give thanks that they chose life.

I am honored and humbled that I had the privilege to love and raise these precious children. Because of them I've desired to become a better person and my life has been full of blessings and joys beyond my wildest imagination.

Sarah was soooo small when I brought her home. I never thought she'd even be on the growth chart much less grow to be 5'7 1/2" tall. The joke in the family is I carried her till she was 10 years old.. It really isn't a joke... She really just wanted to be carried everywhere.. She was walking by 10 months and climbing out of the crib, but don't ask her to walk from the car into a store or even from the car to the play ground.. She wanted up.. Now she has enlisted in the NAVY...

Sarah is so full of life, joy, and sometimes mischief... She works hard, laughs long and often, and has a caring, giving heart. She is sweet, beautiful, kind, bubbly, full of energy, diligent, and loving...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET SARAH!!!! Curly Beth - Lady Bug -

Finding Homes for Beloved Pets!

Most of the time I'm so excited that the beginning of next year I will make the move to Kazakhstan. With Sarah heading off into the Navy, Marc enjoying his own life and knowing the Internet keeps us in contact I have a peace in my heart. The only time a real sadness can well up in my heart is when I think about not coming home to my faithful K.C.

For those of you who don't know K.C. is my beloved 6 years old Rhodesian Ridgeback.

She has been my faithful companion for the past 6 years. K.C. is gentle, still playful, loves to play with other dogs, likes to go places, likes to chase squirrels (sometimes catches them!) and loves to crawl under the covers.

I'm looking for a new home for her with a family that will love her as much as I do and make her part of their family. All dogs but especially Rhodesians need lots of attention and to be part of the family. K.C. loves to be in the middle of opening presents Christmas morning or BBQ's with friends and family.

I'm looking for a family that is willing to keep in touch with me through email and occasional visit when I'm back in the states. I'd like a family that will get to know K.C. so K.C. will feel comfortable with the move. K.C. is very attached to me, but I believe she will become attached to another family if they give her the time.

I'm asking for your help in getting the word out about my beloved K.C.. If you or someone you know may be interested in K.C. they can contact me either by email kazakhvictoria@gmail.com or my cell 804.347.3383 to find out additional information.

I also have two wonderful cats that need new families either together or separate.

Kiki age 8 yrs a gray tabby with white feet and white on his chest and Bromley age 9 yrs a calico.

KiKi (2008) Bromley (2008)

Both are very sweet loving cats. They both come when called, sit for treats and are still playful. Kiki can be some what shy with new people in the home, but warms up very quickly. Bromley loves all people including small children, but doesn't like other animals including the two she currently lives with. Bromley was attached by a neighborhood dog many years ago and almost died. Since that time she growls at any dog or cat and doesn't like to go outside unless to sit on the front or back porch with one of us. Kiki doesn't venture out much except in the warmer weather for short walks.

It is sad to part with these beloved members of our family, but I'm confident I'll find good homes for them all.

Thank you for your assistance with this search. Thank each and everyone of you for your prayers, support and encouragement as I make preparations for this move.

I am enjoying the blessings and joys given just for today at the same time I'm looking forward to this next chapter in my life. I'm honored to be on this journey with so many dear friends.

What a true gift from God each friend is.

Vicki

They received my gifts!

When the last delegation of people went over in March I sent a trunk full of goodies for the team and "my" kids. One of the thing I sent was about 20 photo collages I put together of images through the years of each child with their name love Vicki. I have been building relationships and taking pictures of these children since 2000 and have thousands of images.. no kidding...

My two children here have thousands of pictures of themselves too and love to look back remembering fun times, laughing at what they wore and seeing how much they have grown.

A couple a years ago I came up with the idea that I would love to give the children in the orphanage a collection of pictures I've taken of them through the years. They have very few if any images of themselves. In past years I have taken photos to give out, but thought it would mean a lot to them if I put together a collage for each.

This has not been an easy task to say the least. First my old IBM computer doesn't like having thousands of photos on it's hard drive. I have a separate hard drive to store the majority of images, but have to load them onto my main hard drive when I'm working on projects. My dear dear friend Lois whose husband, Richard who knows all about IBM computers and has been so kind and generous to help me through the years will all kinds of problems. He has put in more and more memory, several new mother boards, several new fans and more trying to keep my old computer going. THANK YOU RICHARD AND LOIS.... YOU GUYS ARE THE VERY BEST!!

Now I'm trying to keep it going until the funds come in for a new MacPro with Adobe and Aperture to handle all the photo work I do. Interlink Resources has used my images of the children and Kazakhstan since my very first trip and will continue will continue to use my talents in that area so the MacPro will be a valuable tool in Kazakhstan.

Until then I am limping along muttering at times to my old computer as it whirls and whines taking it's sweet time processing the last click of the keys.....

Anyway.... Sara, the head of the Youth Department for Interlink Resources sent me a couple pictures of the children studying their photo collage. She shared how much they loved them.

My heart jumped for joy seeing the images and hearing how much they loved them. It is my great joy to be privileged to have these relationships. I miss "my" sweet children of Kazakhstan... I'm looking forward to seeing them this August and really excited about moving. I'm not particularly fond of cold weather, but the trade off is more than worth the small inconveniences.

What a treasure each one of my friends are.. What a joy to make new friends from all over the world..

Thank you for stopping by a please feel free to drop me an email and let me know how you are doing. KazakhVictoria@gmail.com

Love

Victoria

One Person CAN Make A Difference

A group of people from the Richmond area arrived back last weekend from visiting Kazakhstan and children they sponsor through Interlink Resources Kid's Connection http://www.interlinkresources.org/projects/child-sponsorship.php .

I have loved hearing about their impressions, thoughts, adventures, and amazement's from their first visit to this majestic country. Seeing the joy first hand that their letters and small gifts make in a child's life. To read more of their adventures go to Interlink Resources blog http://interlinkblog.blogspot.com/ click on April 08.

It is easy to become overwhelmed with the need in Richmond, Virginia, multiply that by a country half way 'round the world or the world as a whole and the impulse is to focus on our own backyard putting the rest out of your mind.

The Star Fish Story

Original Title "The Star Thrower" by: Loren Eisley 1907-1977

I awoke early, as I often did, just before sunrise to walk by the ocean's edge and greet the new day. As I moved through the misty dawn, I focused on a faint, far away motion. I saw a youth, bending and reaching and flailing arms, dancing on the beach, no doubt in celebration of the perfect day soon to begin.

As I approached, I sadly realized that the youth was not dancing to the bay, but rather bending to sift through the debris left by the night's tide, stopping now and then to pick up a starfish and then standing, to heave it back into the sea. I asked the youth the purpose of the effort. "The tide has washed the starfish onto the beach and they cannot return to the sea by themselves," the youth replied. "When the sun rises, they will die, unless I throw them back to the sea."

As the youth explained, I surveyed the vast expanse of beach, stretching in both directions beyond my sight. Starfish littered the shore in numbers beyond calculation. The hopelessness of the youth's plan became clear to me and I countered, "But there are more starfish on this beach than you can ever save before the sun is up. Surely you cannot expect to make a difference."

The youth paused briefly to consider my words, bent to pick up a starfish and threw it as far as possible. Turning to me he simply said, "I made a difference to that one."

I left the boy and went home, deep in thought of what the boy had said. I returned to the beach and spent the rest of the day helping the boy throw starfish in to the sea.

There is something very special in each and every one of us. We have all been gifted with the ability to make a difference. And if we can become aware of that gift,we gain through the strength of our visions the power to shape the future.We must each find our starfish.And if we throw our stars wisely and well, the world will be blessed.

attributed to Loren Eisley

It matters to the one child who receives a letter and picture of someone who cares. Who took the time to write a letter to a child who desperately needs and wants to know that they matter in this world. From the story we can also see how the older man joined the youth, which doubled the effect. Two pair of hands are better than one and working together as a team the possibilities multiply infinitely. Age doesn't matter either...

I can tell you from first hand experience that these children savor every letter and picture sent to them. They will share it with the other children in their rooms and the pages will become worn from reading and re-reading through the years.

These letters and support also help the staff of Interlink build relationships with these children as they regularly go to individual orphanages. Can you begin to imagine the excitement of the children as the team is passing out letter's to them from people half way around the world? Can you imagine the sadness of the children who don't receive letters. I dream of a day each and every child receives a letter.

Part of Interlink Kids Connection program is financially supporting a child and that money goes to help the entire group that child has been placed in and makes a huge difference in their lives. You can choose to write a letter to a child without sponsoring that child financially. By going to Interlink Resources web page you can write a letter to a child (not a specific child) sharing about yourself and asking general questions. Interlink will download this letter, translate it then give it to a child who hasn't been sponsored and doesn't receive letters. You can also send letter to Interlink Resources, Inc state side office and they will deliver them to Kazakhstan with the next delegation. Pictures of your family, pets, neighborhood, stickers, pencils, small items can be sent with your letter. Most times your child will write you back and your heart will break reading their words of gratitude. You will read first hand how you can make a difference in one child's life. And to that child it is very very important.

I hope I've encouraged you to write a letter to one of these precious children.  Don't shut the door on possibilities that at first seem uncomfortable or far fetched. 

Thank you for your love, support and encouragement as I continue this journey and great adventure to move to Kazakhstan and work with the children full time. I cannot do this alone, but through the efforts of many will it be possible.

May your joy bubble over to all those you meet today.

Victoria

Sarah enlisted in the NAVY!

Yes! My baby girl enlisted in the Navy this week. As I stood outside this glass room waiting to be allowed in to watch her (along with one other girl and about 15 guys) I started to cry. I remember when I first held her in my arms and how small she was. I remembered how I carried her forever because she didn't like to walk. (I'm serious she was 10 when I finally said "no more pick-ups!".) Thinking about how hard Sarah had worked in school. Talking and reading didn't come easy for her. Now, we joke that I prayed so many times for her to talk years ago and now I pray for her not to talk sometimes.. :o) I stood there looking at this beautiful young woman and remembered back across time and marveled at it all. I am so incredibly proud of her and her decision to join the Navy even if I didn't like when I was told she is now property of the United States Military.

 At first Sarah was told the job she wanted wasn't available to her. But then it was in addition Sarah had desired not to leave till September so she could have her summer here. Guess when her boot camp begins? September... Isn't God so good... She is an Operation Specialist which means she is in communications... just perfect for her...

Of coarse I had my camera and took pictures.

Waiting! (and she wasn't talking:o)!)

I forget his title, (I guess I'll learn a lot about military "lingo" soon.) but he was gracious to stop for a moment after he swore them in to do a photo shot.. Only one other mother was there and thankfully she wanted a picture of her son with him, so I wasn't the only mother embarrassing their child!

May your joy bubble over to all those you meet.

Victoria

Katie, Michael and Sarah Mac

I had fun spending time with two of my nieces and nephew on Saturday. To hear what they are interested in and ideas on life was fun and entertaining. All three are very bright and full of life. Katie loves to read and write, Michael love sports of all kinds especially basketball, and young Sarah Mac loves to dance. Sarah Mac especially had all kinds of questions about the children in Kazakhstan and why I am moving there in light of all that I will be leaving behind. We talked at lenght about having to find a new home for my dog and two cats and the possibilities of taking them with me. Also talked at great lenght about how I would stay in touch with her. She finally decided that it would be okay for me to go and that she would come visit and see these children for herself. I'm not sure what her parent think of this idea!! :o) It was also great to be given permission by an 8 year old.

As I was leaving she begged me to stay saying I was very entertaining. I'm not sure what that says about me!?! After promising her I would come "play" again she agreed to let me leave. To be so young and think you have so much control on the world around you.

I took some photos of these three while I was visiting.

Katie

Michael

Sarah Mac

Treated by my Daughter and Son!

There are days I miss "my" babies.... The cuddles, sloppy kisses and early bedtimes! :o)
Then other days I enjoy insightful conversation and getting one of my two to pick something up from the store. (they both can drive now)



Friday - Sarah and I enjoyed a meal out together. I sat across the table and was amazed to watch this beautiful young woman with her excitement for life and wondered how that tiny peanut of a girl grew so quickly into this young woman.


Sarah right after we brought her home. Sarah being Sarah!!!

Sarah with her cousins Christmas 2007
On Sunday Marc treated Sarah and I to the movies. He wanted to spend time with his mother and sister!!!! How that touched my heart. He is almost 20 years old and what a handsome thoughtful young man he is. I enjoyed hearing about his plans, his friends, and his ideas on life.
The first pictures I saw of Marc.
Marc being Marc!
Such a handsome young man.

I am so proud of both my children and what they are doing as they move forward in their lives.
What a blessing to spend time with both my children this weekend and really connect. Not that I don't talk to them on a daily basis, but to sit back and admire the people they are sometimes gets lost in the details of life.
I have been richly blessed with the honor and privilege of being their Mother...

This next year will bring changes for all of us. I am excited to be moving forward in the next chapter of my life to work with the children in Kazakhstan, to be part of Marc and Sarah's life in a different way as they emark on adulthood, and look forward to the adventures we all will have.

I am also so thankful for all our good friends and family who have been with us through the years. Through the many good times, laughter and celebrations, as well as the heart aches, tears, and valleys.. We couldn't of made it without your prayers, support and encouraging words. Thank you.. It also bring great comfort as Marc, Sarah and I are about to have life change in so many ways.
Thank you dear friends and family.
Love
Vicki

What/Who is Interlink Resources?

Many have asked me about Interlink Resources and what they do. They have a great web site and blog.
http://www.interlinkresources.org/
http://interlinkblog.blogspot.com/

Through these two links you can learn more about the work Interlink does and about the team in Kazakhstan. They offer a great Intern program anywhere from 3 months to 12 months. They have a Child sponsorship program for orphans and much more. On the blog you will get to know the national employees as well as the Americans. You'll read heart warming and heart breaking stories about the children in the orphanages they are building relationships with.

On Wednesdays, a member of the Interlink team will write a post to introduce themselves in a series called "The People Behind Interlink". Another series called "What Exactly Does Interlink do?" on Fridays, will introduce a different Interlink program.

I encourage you to check out these to sites. I think you will find them interesting, encouraging, and hopefully motivating.

Thank you for joining me on this next journey in my life.
Victoria

A day off!

Today I had the day "OFF"!! Not that I don't have a mile long list of things I need to do on my "day off", but today was my first day off since November 07... a long time... Today I just putzed... took K.C. to the dog park, cleaned the house (it had gotten way out of hand and the dust bunnies were about to take over).. :o), sorted through stuff, and did some much needed paper work.

Sarah has been home all week sick with the flu. We joke that I prayed for years for Sarah to talk (she didn't till she was almost 5 yrs old) and that now I pray for her to be quiet.. She only stops when she is sleeping.

Well this week I definitely missed the music of her constant chatter. Between Sunday evening and Wednesday she said about 5 words, Wednesday she seem to rally of coarse in the doctor's office then about 5 more words till today. She is quiet for Sarah, but I am most definitely enjoying her chatter again... We both have enjoyed a relaxing day at home.

One of the projects I was working on was sorting out stuff in my "art" room. --Take to Kazakhstan, Give to Marc or Sarah, Give to a friend, yard sale, store until I return, Etc -- .. ugghh... I'm a pack rat by genetics...

As I was going through I realized that I'm probably at or near the half way mark of my life.. that is mind boggling... I'm still not caught up on the fact I don't have little kids anymore...

I came across a couple of pictures of my sisters and I.. Can you recognize me?

One sister then two sisters....

The Mudd Girls in the early 80's

The Mudd Girls 2008....

Where has the time gone...

The years have been marked with overwhelming sorry, fear, anger, sadness, and confusion. At the same time overflowing with great joys, love, friendships, and laughter. The tapestry that makes my life is woven from these, contrast and contradictions. I've made terrible choices, mistakes to many to count, and just been plain stupid in so many things.  I wish the gray hair reflected the amount of great wisdom I've acquired, but I think my gray far out numbers the wisdom I've gleaned.

As I look forward to this move I don't want to forget to enjoy each moment I have today!! That is all I am promised and I've wasted far to many days either looking back in regret at what I'd lost (or thought I'd lost), or looking forward to what I thought I wanted and would make me happy. Most times they were just illusions of what I thought not reality anyway. I no longer wish to waste a single day by not enjoying the many joys and blessings that are given just for this day.

This has been a great day to spend time with Sarah, enjoy K.C. playing at the dog park, corral the dust bunnies for today, work through the pile of papers on my desk, read a good book and enjoy the beautiful sun shine.

Letters from "my" children in Kazakhstan!

I love when I get a package from Interlink Resources and it has letters from what I refer to as "my" kids in Kazakhstan. My heart always fills with great joy and a deep pain. I miss these children so much, but am thankful for the Interlink team who makes regular visits as they encourage and build relationships.

One is from a sweet boy who was in my 4th grade class last summer named Daniel. He writes: "How are you? How is your health? I want to say that when you had gone I missed you and cried a lot. But I keep a chin up and decided to report you that I will pray for your coming back to Savva. I will keep in touch with you let you know more about myself. I forgot to write you that I have a brother and sister their names are Alyona and Nikita and my mom's name is Victoria she lives in Taraz. My hobby is to play on a computer and drawing. I hope my mother will get me next summer. Vicki do you rmember how we were saying boodbye to each other I cried so long. Let me finish letter, bye! With love Daniel."

Daniel told me his mother put him in the orphanage because he was a bad and ugly boy. She didn't want him, but she kept his sisters. He had not seen her or heard from her for several years but missed her greatly. He spoke of beatings and rejection and my heart broke.

2003

Vladik, one of my boys from that 3rd grade class. 2007

He wrote: "Hi Vikki. I miss you. I love you. You are very good American. When you come I always run to you, because I love you. You are very good sponsor. Do you miss me? When I grwo up I will go to America. Will you come in December? I will wait for you. I will miss you. I love you. Love Vladik"

I've never been to Kazakhstan in December, but you can see they want me to visit all the time. I don't think they understand how far America is and how long it takes to travel there. I long to hold him in my arms.

Gerta a sweet girl in the 2nd grade

She wrote: "Vikka hello. How are you? I study well. I'm at 2 grade. I like to play with dolls and football. My favorite hobby is reading. I like to embroider. I like to walk in the evening when stars are shining. I want to see you Vikki, I want you to come on the holiday. Vikki you are very beautiful. I love you. Don't forget me. Bye Vikki I love you.

I received several others and each one is just as touching. If you would like to write to one of these children or even sponser one of the children you can do this through Interlink Resources. http://interlinkresources.org/projects/child-sponsorship.php Interlink will translate your letter into either Russian or Kazakh depending on the child then deliver it to them. I can tell you the children treasure each and every letter, reading and re-reading them. They also share them among each other so a few words from you go a long long way with them. You can reach out from the comfort of your own home and touch a child's life half way around the world.

You can read more about the impact letters and visit from the Interlink team has on these precious children by going to Interlinks blog http://interlinkblog.blogspot.com/ . You can also read about a young woman, Ember, from Lynchburg, Virginia who is doing a year internship with Interlink in addition to the team members who live in-country full time.

Thank each and everyone of you for being part of this great adventure.

Vicki