We Are Expanding..........

 

Before you ask how far along I am, or if we're having twins, let me explain. Back in November we began the process to become Foster Parents. For years I have played around with the idea of adopting. I wanted more children, even a house full, I would say. But the problem was I didn't want to GROW them! Please don't get me wrong - I loved being pregnant with Rylie and Ethan. But they weren't the easiest pregnancies or deliveries. I have heard plenty of horror stories to be thankful mine weren't So bad. We made the decision 2 were enough, and with the chaos of Ethan's unexpected delivery we knew our baby days were over. Last year, Keith and I started talking about adoption. Keith wasn't sure about it so we continued to pray. I knew we both needed to feel the desire and want to adopt. I was not going to pressure him. I had decided if it was in God's plan then it would come to pass.

At the beginning of October we went with our youth group to a conference. Keith and I are Youth Pastors at Friendship Assembly (also new since I last blogged in 2011).  Anyway, on the last day of the youth conference the minister spoke about being adopted into the family of God. He used the current experience of his daughter adopting her son as an example of when we become a Christian. He then showed this video (I posted it below if you are interested).  The tears tears came and I couldn't stop them even if I tried. An altar call was given. As I stood there praying for those who responded I began worshipping. In that moment it was just me and my Savior. Then I heard Him speak into my heart that my home would be filled with children. I knew then I wanted those kids. The ones who were placed last on their parents' list. Those children who have never experienced a hug where they found it hard to breath. I wanted to love them like they had never known. I wanted them to know there is a God who loves them unconditionally and who found them worthy enough to die for them. I wanted them.

That night, when Keith and I were alone, I asked him what he thought about that morning's service. As we talked, he shared with me that he had been praying about adopting for a while now. I realized then we were both on the same page. But instead of adopting a child, we wanted to love on more than just that. So, in November we began the process of getting licensed to become Foster parents with the intentions of possibly adopting.

I know its not going to be an easy process. This will change our lives and the lives of our children but I know it will be worth it. I am sure there will be plenty of tears of joy, frustration, sadness, and pain. But it will be worth it. We will be busier than we are now. But it will be worth it. We will be involved in not just the lives of the kids but in their families as well. But it will be worth it.  

My hope for this blog is for you to follow along with us through this process and next stage of our life. Keep our family and friends updated on anything new happening. A place for me to express my thoughts and get advice from others who have been where we are.

 No worries though, I will still have plenty of stuff on here about my cute kids and other things going on in our life. Thanks for following us and thanks in advance for the prayers!

 

ReMoved