Back almost two weeks ago I wrote this post about surviving the wait until we get to travel to bring home our Solomon.

I also posed a little competition to see if any of you out there had some suggestions on how I can spend my time over the next three to four months (other than compulsively checking my email and packing, unpacking and repacking my suitcases).

You all had some really good suggestions, and they definitely ran the gamut, and at times even conflicted each other. For example, "pastormacsann" suggested "liberal amounts of chocolate", while Betina recommended that I train for a marathon. I have to say that ice cream is my "gorging food of choice" (sorry, not a huge chocolate person!) and I have never been a runner, but I do love the idea of treating myself to treats as "needed" and I really like the idea of getting myself into shape while we are waiting. Exercising would not only help get rid of some aggravation and stress, but would help make me a more fit and healthier mom. Thanks "ericnlisa" for the same tip about getting in to shape (and Reba thinks I need A LOT of work since she wants me to walk over 70 miles a day). Now I just need to figure out a (realistic) plan and find some time. :)

Cat, I love the idea of learning some Amharic, and I have actually been working on it. I can count to 10 and say a few phrases. Somehow, practicing Amharic, even though I doubt I'll ever be fluent and I am sure I sound ridiculous, somehow it makes me feel closer to Solomon.

I love the idea of crafts and new hobbies with the kids, although if I am going to teach them how to sew, then one of you is going to have to come and teach me how to sew! I can do buttons and seams, but that is about it. I would love to learn how to quilt or knit. I also love the idea of memorizing scriptures. I have been helping the kids with some and I end up memorizing some that way, but it would be good to learn some for myself as well.

So, lots of great ideas, but I have to say that my favorite is from "friendofchocolate" who said (in part), "As well as anyone, you know that having another child in the house will upset your current balance at least a bit; perhaps you can fill up each child's "love tank" to overflowing in preparation for their new brother."

That is the thought that has really stuck with me, "Fill up each child's love tank to overflowing". Thanks so much for the beautiful suggestion! I want to make the very most of every minute with all of my children, and being the best mom I can be to them, is the very best way to help prepare for bringing home Solomon.

So, "friendofchocolate", you can email me at erin h @ adoptionblogs . com and I will email you about your prize.

Thanks to everybody who participated, and keep your eyes open for another contest coming up to celebrate National Adoption Month (and here is a little clue...the prize is going to be a great one and is being donated by a company whose products I recently reviewed).

Oh, and if you want to get an idea of how I usually end up burning off steam during the wait, you can see today's entry here.