When one door closes...

Have you ever heard the expression, "When one door closes, another one opens"?  This is showing up as truth in this entire adoption process and I feel compelled to share some examples with YOU.

The Dreaded Letter

We got the letter today.  When it's good news it comes in two ways, a phone call or an email.  So when the letter came, a little part of me sank.  Disappointed, I opened and read the words no one applying for money wants to hear, we didn't choose you.  But honestly, I partly expected it.  I set myself up in the beginning to hope for a one out of four ratio.  And this is only the second one we have heard back from.  So, one out of two, not bad.  Pretty good.  Excellent in fact.

Ephesians 3:20 grant APPROVED!!!

What a BLESSING that Steve and I were home together when the call came in.  The message requested us to call back in reference for a grant we applied for.  Together, we called expectantly.  Hopeful.  Filled with anticipation.  "We have approved your request and want to partner with you in this adoption."  What sweet words!!!!

We have many more applications in process, and we believe that some of them will not pan out or prove fruitful for us. But to hear the word APPROVED regarding our very first grant, well, the Lord knew we needed that encouragement.

We are still a long way from funded, and this grant does not pay until we have travel authority so there are many funds to raise in the meantime, but this was a GREAT moment for us to treasure.  To know that this organization chose us, and believes in our mission was a tremendous perk to our week and this journey thus far.

To those who have been prayerful with us, praying expectantly knowing the Lord will provide, thank you.  He has heard our prayers.  I was asked recently if I think we should have waited, saved our money and when we had "enough" and were "ready" then we could move forward.  No, I believe God has these two children specifically for our family, and waiting would have meant walking away from them.  Besides, no matter how much money I have on hand, I have come to see the fundraising for adoption as a community builder.  It allows others to be a part of giving back, to contribute to something abundantly worthwhile.  I am amazed at the "community" we have become a part of, and look forward to these next few months of bonding with "the village."

For today, we shall rest in the words, "Your grant has been APPROVED!!!"

Exposure of the Heart....

Hey Friends!  What an amazing and wonderful journey this has been so far!  We have done more paperwork in these last 6 weeks than ever in my life....no joke.  We also completed all the required visits for our home study, whew!  I know so much more about adoption now than I did before - but also, more about me.  More about my family.  More about Faith.  More about Jesus.  Let me explain....