And the New Adoption Process Begins

It's funny isn't how we plan and plan in life and just when we think we have everything worked out, something else happens and we have to adjust. I am sure you have all seen that sign that says "We plan, God laughs." Well, if you have the kind of life where everything goes smoothly and there are no major ups and downs, I suggest you pray for patience and then you will receive the opportunity to learn patience. I am.

Since early November Andy and I have been involved in this "call" process for his new church in New Zealand. It was both an easy and a hard process--if that makes any sense at all. It was easy because we were content where we were and not really looking for a change, and hard because when it became clear that God was leading us in that direction we knew it would mean a lot of change for all of us. But through it all we simply trusted God and believed that if He had in deed led us to find the ad for the job and to develop such a friendly and open relationship with the church, etc.--then He would cause it all to work out. And He has.

Then this month we experienced the surprise news that Olivia is going to have a little brother or sister. Wow! That was totally unexpected, totally not planned for, and totally something we had to do. Because we love our daughter so much and because we totally trust God to provide, we had to do this for Olivia.

So, we have signed the agreement and submitted our $1000 application fee (thanks to Olivia's godmother, Susan). God has already provided a $10,000 scholarship from the Methodist Mission Home when we were told there would be none, as well as, the gift from Susan. Other gifts have been promised, our tax refund will be here shortly and then the tax rebate we are all expecting in May--that leaves us with only $5000 left to pay. What a miracle!

The hardest part will be waiting for the baby to come, being separated from Andy when he goes ahead to New Zealand, and of course finding the strength to be loving and supportive to Christina through it all (especially the first 48 hours in the hospital). This adoption brings a new element which is a birth father who actually knows about the baby. I wonder if he will want to see him or her after the birth.

Please keep us in your prayers as this new process begins. We continue to leave it all in God's hands, but need your prayers and support as well.