tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44730583729824025432024-02-06T19:12:43.174-07:00Running to AfricaElisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-29578276779515671422013-10-05T06:10:00.000-06:002013-10-05T06:10:43.337-06:00Captured in Video<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div abp="153" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/oZa_uF_1zkQ/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/oZa_uF_1zkQ&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/oZa_uF_1zkQ&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div abp="155" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="156" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally completed a video I have been working on for weeks. This is a snapshot of the last 11 months. </div>
<div abp="157" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u abp="158">Update</u>: We are waiting to clear Embassy so we can pick Nardos up and bring her home. We anticipate that will happen in the next week or so. If you would like to contribute to bringing her home we have two options. You can use the Paypal link on our blog or you can purchase a scarf. </div>
<div abp="159" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="160" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a abp="162" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159441606/the-hammond-family-adoption-fundraiser?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">https://www.etsy.com/listing/159441606/the-hammond-family-adoption-fundraiser?ref=shop_home_active</a></div>
<div abp="160" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div abp="160" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span abp="177" id="goog_1722638073"></span><span abp="178" id="goog_1722638074"></span> </div>
</div>
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-42151869242881899952013-08-25T20:45:00.000-06:002013-08-25T20:45:12.675-06:00Love one more<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8s8iCrsUu-cdTDUhisfNoIPk35kshpigKd2CT4DEgTwZOiLCV8uSLnsSoeA05p13TqXMqOtKnQCOdG_yVWh82wAAxExRtBHHDnzSZ4ywlgmL3icfGYWazlET1CyvpN2b-7Bez43TR8ri2/s1600/Summer+2013+158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8s8iCrsUu-cdTDUhisfNoIPk35kshpigKd2CT4DEgTwZOiLCV8uSLnsSoeA05p13TqXMqOtKnQCOdG_yVWh82wAAxExRtBHHDnzSZ4ywlgmL3icfGYWazlET1CyvpN2b-7Bez43TR8ri2/s1600/Summer+2013+158.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Introducing our newest family member - Nardos. Brad and I just recently returned from a trip to Ethiopia. We sat before a judge and told her that we have met her, we know about all the pain in her past, and yes, we know that this is permanent. Anti-climatically, she scribbled notes on a stack of papers, looked up and told us with a straight face, "the court declares her as your daughter." That's it? No balloons, or bells and whistles? I know I was probably out of place, but I couldn't help it, I squeaked out a "Woohoo!" <br />
<br />
Just 8 months prior we sat before this same judge and answered the same questions about Micah and Cassidy. We were not worried, just curious about a foreign process - but when we heard the news from the judge that they needed an approved MOWYCA letter (local adoption approval) before they would become part of our family, our hearts sank. How could we come so far and get "No" as answer? Of course, we soon realized that the answer was not, "No," it was "Not yet." <br />
<br />
So, back to August 6, 2013 and this same judge plainly tells us, "We approve your application to bring this child into your family." So, no celebrating in this cold room, just encouragement to quickly move out so the next set of families could hear their ruling. Fortunately we were able to celebrate with the most important person - Nardos. <br />
<br />
I look at pictures and am amazed at what God is doing in our lives. There are times when I hear things like, "these kids are so blessed and lucky to have you." I know it is a well meaning comment and stems from thoughts that I have experienced too. But Brad and I would be the first ones to tell you, "We are not good enough for these kids. We don't deserve them." God has taught us so much about love and being vulnerable, through parenting. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJorlxQ5j50QCItqLaGfbrtSVcH-UZMVEev6PwXNxgiGYNRkxlWVQ6qiFjC_0YKYfv_1c3unBXgH95u2ixAZyVXLBsLmS5PzC9AVN38_xLNRbZrwimxStrBMGPP0W_GZNXPXb0ErNNZbI/s1600/2.3.12+import+141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJorlxQ5j50QCItqLaGfbrtSVcH-UZMVEev6PwXNxgiGYNRkxlWVQ6qiFjC_0YKYfv_1c3unBXgH95u2ixAZyVXLBsLmS5PzC9AVN38_xLNRbZrwimxStrBMGPP0W_GZNXPXb0ErNNZbI/s1600/2.3.12+import+141.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-size: small;">This was taken in November, 2013. Cassidy was so excited to introduce me to her good friend. We had no idea at the time that she would soon be a part of our family too.</span> </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFoOQ42UHGi1KBSEUUW3m6wmLdAVkI5Izzq3ULjVgfA3tJjIGBT6NMhGk866XPycKVC5SlZff0vF0SFP0z2FTygA8BhOeF3aTQcpiya6W4liq9mQDO_YlNqM1Q0Jusz6_GsNPjjOGCwOH/s1600/2.3.12+import+642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFoOQ42UHGi1KBSEUUW3m6wmLdAVkI5Izzq3ULjVgfA3tJjIGBT6NMhGk866XPycKVC5SlZff0vF0SFP0z2FTygA8BhOeF3aTQcpiya6W4liq9mQDO_YlNqM1Q0Jusz6_GsNPjjOGCwOH/s1600/2.3.12+import+642.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This picture was taken in January 2013. We brought
Micah and Cassidy back to the orphanage to say goodbye to their friends.
We remember Nardos was so sad, her last friend was leaving the orphanage.
She worried that she would never be matched with a family. We asked the agency about her and advocated for her to our friends. God soon made it clear that she was meant to be a part of our family. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfoYL7qLx6pLBgkQ0tIoE-vJqKfsVrAjbMM44tW54cssEVt_gNosFCIuUeOiVQlKelWthNK6s6-lO3jac6VvyhnblwS4iB3tO_otbtCUzOUFclVaxcCBh-zARBlu9KBl9vpXna1FxH0Bz/s1600/Summer+2013+185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfoYL7qLx6pLBgkQ0tIoE-vJqKfsVrAjbMM44tW54cssEVt_gNosFCIuUeOiVQlKelWthNK6s6-lO3jac6VvyhnblwS4iB3tO_otbtCUzOUFclVaxcCBh-zARBlu9KBl9vpXna1FxH0Bz/s1600/Summer+2013+185.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This
is Nardos and one of her favorite Nannies. I am humbled by the love the
nannies have for the children. Look at the smile on Nardos' face -
beautiful!</span></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEN6rc3X7vOgvW3bHbUAoMWRQThIAYzI6v3EQ2GYElaRtad52wkGr6W70_6ELEDptm3vLviMhqVoANbaWUgSFQAMUcdj4k9gDOB1MYrGhbeux6jeVzfihkl_h6RusIuyk7_oSGi4mDr8w/s1600/Summer+2013+186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEN6rc3X7vOgvW3bHbUAoMWRQThIAYzI6v3EQ2GYElaRtad52wkGr6W70_6ELEDptm3vLviMhqVoANbaWUgSFQAMUcdj4k9gDOB1MYrGhbeux6jeVzfihkl_h6RusIuyk7_oSGi4mDr8w/s1600/Summer+2013+186.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All the children are gathered around Nardos as she watches
videos made by Dad and Micah to tell her about life in Utah. Most of them
know Micah and start saying his name. They all love pictures and
videos. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPIXcQp4Q0jwoc_4ynMOltauX7m6EmOIwIUbCbq3YlFoXmYUgCDRNpChG5GEQCYeY3Ur0xFUy52d9jBfEDTSwSMFdsOyUw-0_3GNY42rUjT2efbaGBYM9rQ6PXC7w8VnHrpbV_bryvgAM/s1600/Summer+2013+197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPIXcQp4Q0jwoc_4ynMOltauX7m6EmOIwIUbCbq3YlFoXmYUgCDRNpChG5GEQCYeY3Ur0xFUy52d9jBfEDTSwSMFdsOyUw-0_3GNY42rUjT2efbaGBYM9rQ6PXC7w8VnHrpbV_bryvgAM/s1600/Summer+2013+197.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">I
just love this picture - Daddy and Daughter. </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUe2Wgd4Gg0kcI4zhskFzhDgDGEjp_iNDxDse6gybNRvBYWND0LxwK7oWWXK_Wy99zcUyKNPGp4d9DCzUO5tj0it6KCb81hpNJC0F6hUXMsgsRuD8m7SntwCj5WiqG0twx3ksWJ-g3Vw-/s1600/Summer+2013+203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUe2Wgd4Gg0kcI4zhskFzhDgDGEjp_iNDxDse6gybNRvBYWND0LxwK7oWWXK_Wy99zcUyKNPGp4d9DCzUO5tj0it6KCb81hpNJC0F6hUXMsgsRuD8m7SntwCj5WiqG0twx3ksWJ-g3Vw-/s1600/Summer+2013+203.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gotta love us some AWAA porch time. Sweet bonding time
with crafts, games, candy and "Amhenglish" conversations (combo
of broken Amharic and broken English to make both parties think that they
understand the message).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Vd2tyQLpAAEAyG1Vq3JHK_ZX70PWxfCFtFG1Q3QNpN9x-akE64sJOaiuAolQTo8y3li9F0-qacTD4zvDDyOGKHg7T08sh3Lmo7tG00bj5FIOxZLQPxl_ILgt5g9l8Nz2tDQdVAud-lgS/s1600/Summer+2013+219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Vd2tyQLpAAEAyG1Vq3JHK_ZX70PWxfCFtFG1Q3QNpN9x-akE64sJOaiuAolQTo8y3li9F0-qacTD4zvDDyOGKHg7T08sh3Lmo7tG00bj5FIOxZLQPxl_ILgt5g9l8Nz2tDQdVAud-lgS/s1600/Summer+2013+219.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I just love him and especially who he is in Ethiopia.
I am such a lucky girl ;) <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhh3hJFkTzq8cUQX-HDBhf-trDPmpJHgvyMEO9y0Gsf0SHdka9gMOWP4IMSLK6HsvQYLgCdXFgygKvQVuf0LB2SkqVzOptsJx2HeGaxnPBmCmEInlhCgDZ-UxiMacR4O0ObdCF2GTF37G/s1600/Summer+2013+228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhh3hJFkTzq8cUQX-HDBhf-trDPmpJHgvyMEO9y0Gsf0SHdka9gMOWP4IMSLK6HsvQYLgCdXFgygKvQVuf0LB2SkqVzOptsJx2HeGaxnPBmCmEInlhCgDZ-UxiMacR4O0ObdCF2GTF37G/s1600/Summer+2013+228.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This was our court day. Nardos changed her clothes
(traded with some of the other girls her size), put on a necklace, nice dress
flats (in lieu of the croc sandals) and a pretty headband, all for our outing
to the Cupcake shop. We were impressed with this place - highly recommend
it if you get the chance to go. The service was the best! It was
very modern and updated, not the typical environment for Addis. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0zksKyxJZJsR9TVIs1ZR0eXk834My7-BvBZQysnW4pcZ_GX1DkpnZK11_75OLjM3pR6HSbNNcM1Ji6dU4-QvVn7iOhjashMi1TwCX3MXJR35KiOlm0GgvEoT_wVxc4j2W5_tCPuxoX2w/s1600/Summer+2013+235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0zksKyxJZJsR9TVIs1ZR0eXk834My7-BvBZQysnW4pcZ_GX1DkpnZK11_75OLjM3pR6HSbNNcM1Ji6dU4-QvVn7iOhjashMi1TwCX3MXJR35KiOlm0GgvEoT_wVxc4j2W5_tCPuxoX2w/s1600/Summer+2013+235.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nardos opened a small birthday gift. Cassidy picked
out the journal for her. Nardos would turn 15 one week later, we had to
celebrate while we were there<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUkDAYPL-B5xhXvecCEvx5FnXUZz6vULen8KsPUofGYTxNIdklv2ukMlCCbsbcY9YYLHmK1e7PAM2A-u-ATWOBWI83rq5iQxIRyxO0tgg9fa8sQixa3R57qWoqd7zJbduzbZpcW5Nj2ic/s1600/Summer+2013+236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUkDAYPL-B5xhXvecCEvx5FnXUZz6vULen8KsPUofGYTxNIdklv2ukMlCCbsbcY9YYLHmK1e7PAM2A-u-ATWOBWI83rq5iQxIRyxO0tgg9fa8sQixa3R57qWoqd7zJbduzbZpcW5Nj2ic/s1600/Summer+2013+236.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Can
you believe this is her first cupcake? </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LG4cOd51K5i6WCOCT1iwlIUSD4CPaKZMO4OHBtFQiN2LIXA5UA-9GxVCtBM3d7KKguuWYBrq6cYOY6YKK0QYcaRT688BBWWQkSQ5Q_5m9rdV2tnFdLYvjYELBT3py7aWEQ4O98nOiwkt/s1600/Summer+2013+237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LG4cOd51K5i6WCOCT1iwlIUSD4CPaKZMO4OHBtFQiN2LIXA5UA-9GxVCtBM3d7KKguuWYBrq6cYOY6YKK0QYcaRT688BBWWQkSQ5Q_5m9rdV2tnFdLYvjYELBT3py7aWEQ4O98nOiwkt/s1600/Summer+2013+237.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Love is everywhere. </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span></o:p></span></span> </div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Next steps - we wait for birth certificate, visa and medical exams so she can clear Embassy and can come home. Yay! We expect this should be final the first half of October. We are in the home stretch. In the mean time, we are working on final fundraising as we need to raise $3800, and we are preparing to add another family member to our home. </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span> </div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-50914170664423480652013-06-16T08:25:00.000-06:002013-06-16T08:25:33.308-06:00We Need Help!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ookP9ayS39U/Ub3ICtoantI/AAAAAAAAALE/3ZRBq2UcB_U/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ookP9ayS39U/Ub3ICtoantI/AAAAAAAAALE/3ZRBq2UcB_U/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
Simply put, we need your help. For those of you who know me, you know this is very difficult for me to do. At this point we don't have any other choice. We are weeks away from traveling to Ethiopia for Court, the first of two trips required for the adoption process. In order to complete the final steps in bringing our daughter home, <u>we need to raise $7,000 in a matter of days</u>. I know this seems impossible, but God is teaching me that impossible things are possible with Him. God has asked us to <strong>LOVE One More</strong>, He will not abandon us as we follow his lead.<br />
<br />
Here is what we are asking from you:<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>First of all please join us in prayer - <strong>Pray</strong> that God will show up in a mighty way and provide for our needs. Pray for our 3 kiddos at home, while Mom and Dad travel to visit our newest family member (two of them have only been home for 4.5 months). Please pray for a blessed time spent with our new daughter and a joyful bonding experience. May God's will be done.</li>
<li><strong>Give</strong>. We are asking each of you to give $10 and then to pass this on to 25 of your friends, asking the same thing. Giving is easy, just click the PayPal button on the top right hand side of the blog. You can pay with your PayPal account or debit/credit card. </li>
<li><strong>Donate</strong> items to take to the Orphanage. Card games, nail polish, jump ropes, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, puzzles, simple board games, beads, crafts, deflated balls, marbles, and baby wipes.</li>
<li>We need a twin size bed for our daughter. If you are able please consider donating a twin bed. </li>
</ol>
<br />
P.S. Another family recently visited with our daughter and gave her a care package that we sent to her. They were kind enough to share their visit with us. "She is so precious! She cried when she looked through the photo album that you sent her. I also found out that she and another girl take care of all the other girls' hair in the Transition Home! Such a sweet and giving girl!"<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
God places the lonely in families. Psalm 68:6a</div>
</div>
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-43598573062894038352013-05-22T14:37:00.002-06:002013-05-22T14:37:54.241-06:00Micah - gift from God.Have you ever had a day when you wondered if God was watching over you? There are times when I say things like, "Hey, did you see that? Why did you let that happen? Are you paying attention?"<br />
<br />
More and more I am learning about the terrible impacts of poverty and my role as a Christian to respond to it. How can there possibly be so many living in unbearable conditions, dying from hunger and treatable diseases? This is even more evident as we have traveled the adoption journey. <br />
<br />
When God lead us to adopt two beautiful children from Ethiopia, I had no idea what was in store. My sweet friend made me realize that God put adoption on our hearts when a beautiful young lady became very sick. She was already poor, struggling as a single mom to provide for two children. Was God listening? Yes he was. He surrounded her with loving neighbors who supported her family to the best of their ability. Her son responded in love and worked to help provide for their family, while other boys were tempted to pocket their earnings for things like cell phones. <br />
<br />
As her health deteriorated, her prayer was for God to keep her children together. Meanwhile, God gave us a baby which seemed like a miracle at the time. Why a baby when we were praying about adoption? Shortly after, God took away our baby and threatened my life. Loss is difficult. It does not make any sense. The bible tells us to consider these times with joy as they will make us stronger. Will it be easy? No. Is it the path we would have chosen? No. We will be reminded that we are not alone and that God's power is in us. <br />
<br />
God brought two families together from different cultures/countries to answer prayers. Simply amazing to me. I can see God's fingerprints everywhere. <br />
<br />
A mom is gone, taken from two children who need safety and security, to be loved by a mom. Where will they go? Who will take care of them? Why is she gone? Can't she stay just a little bit longer? Answers soon come. You must leave. We love you and want to honor your mother's prayers, for she was a good woman. We don't have the resources to provide and care for you. We must take you to an orphanage. Meron, we will take you to the orphanage. Dawit, this will be harder as you are too old and the orphanage wants more information before we can take you there. Here is some money while we work to get you in the orphanage. <br />
<br />
Dawit waited for 6 months while the community worked diligently to reunite him with his sister. She cried for her brother and missed him deeply. <br />
<br />
We had the opportunity to travel to meet this community to see where Dawit and Meron grew up. We were overwhelmed by their love and affection towards strangers. But they did not see us as strangers. They saw us as answered prayer. They celebrated this answer with a big party, early before work and school with popcorn, dabo (bread) and freshly roasted coffee. The community gathered to celebrate and say a final goodbye to Dawit and Meron. I will never forget this trip and praise God that even though our lives have been joined because of loss, God was and always is there with each of us. He blesses us with gifts along our journey. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7UotFqm2uqBSsrAF7NPgtCrArpZpqxmHyjKcmTY3R7B8mcVG7CMGJoii3K41vPskLJZk9zVZz6UBLOpIeRO9m6B0d6g23saJFULqKXRZhg071JqZ9ldgeetOZ32TWhyphenhyphenY_7RiiYPGemtu/s1600/2.3.12+import+548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7UotFqm2uqBSsrAF7NPgtCrArpZpqxmHyjKcmTY3R7B8mcVG7CMGJoii3K41vPskLJZk9zVZz6UBLOpIeRO9m6B0d6g23saJFULqKXRZhg071JqZ9ldgeetOZ32TWhyphenhyphenY_7RiiYPGemtu/s1600/2.3.12+import+548.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAkRLVDZ5CMYKlKokz4RX5sstcExhwkfIZ6-rukHq0KIBnkr1eLGHWvDEEI0CFgWyU1_kZrkM1QnVFa_oefabHVdLJ2d2ilbOenPYRE2KCfxwfDA0rd2HMywuhmF4fg8IwTsxmrPrwI_b/s1600/2.3.12+import+556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAkRLVDZ5CMYKlKokz4RX5sstcExhwkfIZ6-rukHq0KIBnkr1eLGHWvDEEI0CFgWyU1_kZrkM1QnVFa_oefabHVdLJ2d2ilbOenPYRE2KCfxwfDA0rd2HMywuhmF4fg8IwTsxmrPrwI_b/s1600/2.3.12+import+556.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYww7Ifd_3e-W4lKx3X6tznVRYTgVqcLsYJS9dQ7qLMHg9wMZ8IrH0-Sh72_2RRPEeNwsgTZD-Qouk_MLWcZbCKlw16TKYQVSQ-Z1Fz-lqnz0AJIw6zvfjamcb8rXnsiPJlscyfoSgZ1U/s1600/2.3.12+import+561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYww7Ifd_3e-W4lKx3X6tznVRYTgVqcLsYJS9dQ7qLMHg9wMZ8IrH0-Sh72_2RRPEeNwsgTZD-Qouk_MLWcZbCKlw16TKYQVSQ-Z1Fz-lqnz0AJIw6zvfjamcb8rXnsiPJlscyfoSgZ1U/s1600/2.3.12+import+561.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qBuCkimm4fH4LGKRr_pfWc_EWoz8VZz-leKX_M4qDWr6WUJpEP5mYKHYI0VD6Tp-uamWrnvnAkQC3m7tMcgusVyPXaD4vFeT4x06tOC03tuZtjhWfMaJnwAYI8BKyz0cc9_1PM-W2GqZ/s1600/2.3.12+import+563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qBuCkimm4fH4LGKRr_pfWc_EWoz8VZz-leKX_M4qDWr6WUJpEP5mYKHYI0VD6Tp-uamWrnvnAkQC3m7tMcgusVyPXaD4vFeT4x06tOC03tuZtjhWfMaJnwAYI8BKyz0cc9_1PM-W2GqZ/s1600/2.3.12+import+563.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_nzWWrmFEcaMSbCg5wkwNyDkJs7VJIaO7Nhf9RhPA3AXqGQPNJGp6PplxDXQq2ETLHkehMAievVwRTTrvbyGbyrxVLU9ffxUX30HurrBHFl_zRyZOC4YB1MBOcckCzmH8mj_hr87gHsV/s1600/2.3.12+import+569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_nzWWrmFEcaMSbCg5wkwNyDkJs7VJIaO7Nhf9RhPA3AXqGQPNJGp6PplxDXQq2ETLHkehMAievVwRTTrvbyGbyrxVLU9ffxUX30HurrBHFl_zRyZOC4YB1MBOcckCzmH8mj_hr87gHsV/s1600/2.3.12+import+569.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg04BeIpEoBbm652jBV6J7NVOMSA6qMGgl276UBr0xjXMsiROdYPfS4Qvo6WrE5f0dcC9egGD0X4ks3t7IRw6z4oxT0c1MK22ado9cLlxxMqVAs9A7jhBhyLW3h-cNFT1pHZ-4L0svxeQ6C/s1600/2.3.12+import+573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg04BeIpEoBbm652jBV6J7NVOMSA6qMGgl276UBr0xjXMsiROdYPfS4Qvo6WrE5f0dcC9egGD0X4ks3t7IRw6z4oxT0c1MK22ado9cLlxxMqVAs9A7jhBhyLW3h-cNFT1pHZ-4L0svxeQ6C/s1600/2.3.12+import+573.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98COkbsAmO9Se8tyV8fO6E305F89pID8adg7sOur6tvt_VUvJGzTIdx9SSLusE02RcZWEyUPJPFdXonvVmzV9obRjli_6KfYQ5qhm0Ld_4vL5kaqmBsp7U8Nr11cFUEsE66ED2TfGzf_t/s1600/2.3.12+import+560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98COkbsAmO9Se8tyV8fO6E305F89pID8adg7sOur6tvt_VUvJGzTIdx9SSLusE02RcZWEyUPJPFdXonvVmzV9obRjli_6KfYQ5qhm0Ld_4vL5kaqmBsp7U8Nr11cFUEsE66ED2TfGzf_t/s1600/2.3.12+import+560.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Dawit has been amazing to get to know. He has made a positive impression on people from all over the world. <br />
<br />
For the first time I am reminded that his birth mom is unable to see him grow up. She already knew what a gift he was. She cared for him, held him, fed him and wiped away his tears. She knew that he:<br />
He is such a caring young man. <br />
He loves small children and is so good with them.<br />
He has a beautiful smile that warms your heart.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrYSi5lmvgEPaw8H1JIjJKqX1lA5MYja28gXPZzINwdr332T1br9RQqlsQZx0rmplO6AJKP8zs4TiP_YJhYmIT0adptTZesQi535JfQidcqlaY4KMwLozDbtKrDGREgiaGJZ2OGjd9b38/s1600/new+family+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrYSi5lmvgEPaw8H1JIjJKqX1lA5MYja28gXPZzINwdr332T1br9RQqlsQZx0rmplO6AJKP8zs4TiP_YJhYmIT0adptTZesQi535JfQidcqlaY4KMwLozDbtKrDGREgiaGJZ2OGjd9b38/s1600/new+family+054.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
He is an amazing soccer player and he absolutely loves it. The way he moves his feet is magical. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghP-ixuaxpaOtcq54tqirUOOfyFs6SeQyHwFavPEroj1PS5eNoVXqqwDIQ2QJzFVtWhdt34eo4A1P5nKEZbJhJuA-8bwm_xsMrOFATbemqZQsMgKV9KFYD0r0-rEEt9CcQPgRES1u9zpHg/s1600/2.3.12+import+701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghP-ixuaxpaOtcq54tqirUOOfyFs6SeQyHwFavPEroj1PS5eNoVXqqwDIQ2QJzFVtWhdt34eo4A1P5nKEZbJhJuA-8bwm_xsMrOFATbemqZQsMgKV9KFYD0r0-rEEt9CcQPgRES1u9zpHg/s1600/2.3.12+import+701.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Pyp9-RnjJgXuMWxC3gEp5L32m4pPjQVMz6Fez-Ui9roeYgG_gHNjHK8I66TvmvNut6adx9xM_X2cXs5GUj9vo6NdSy-b_VRDS5raJNPiIJhbneyPmywfEhIvlZUsHr1duQZMJFajpFAl/s1600/Spring+2013+170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Pyp9-RnjJgXuMWxC3gEp5L32m4pPjQVMz6Fez-Ui9roeYgG_gHNjHK8I66TvmvNut6adx9xM_X2cXs5GUj9vo6NdSy-b_VRDS5raJNPiIJhbneyPmywfEhIvlZUsHr1duQZMJFajpFAl/s1600/Spring+2013+170.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
He loves God. <br />
He is so helpful at home, always eager to help.<br />
<br />
<br />
Our Social Worker just came for our 3 month post adoption visit. She asked what the hardest thing has been since coming to Utah, he answered language. His favorite thing has been school. <br />
He is doing really well in school. His teachers are impressed with his efforts and how quickly he is learning. The kids at school love him, love to play soccer with him, help him with his school work and cheer him on. <br />
<br />
He also loves to play jokes on his family. My favorite so far has been one he played on his sister. He called her in his room complaining that the cat had pooped in his closet. She ran out, "Mom, gross! Look!" I come in and he is holding it! "Look, rock!" And oh he laughed. <br />
<br />
Yes - he truly has been a gift to our family. I wait expectantly while God works in his life and walks beside him as he grows up. With all this change - Dawit has asked for one more change. "Please, can we change my name?" So, we chose Micah. Which, you guessed it, means "gift from God." <br />
<br />
P.S. I wonder if Micah and Meron's sweet birth mom is holding our baby in heaven? Wouldn't that be neat? <br />
<br />
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-8987834059209802352013-05-07T15:04:00.001-06:002013-05-07T15:04:42.163-06:00Congratulations - it's a girl!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Okay, so typically when you are preparing to have a baby there are certain protocols. Find cute ways to let your husband know he will be a dad, find creative ways to tell your parents, plan baby showers, prepare a nursery, pack for the hospital, etc. Adopting an older child is, well, different. The parents are anxious and excited about a new addition to their family. They know their lives will change forever. But, sharing their excitement with others is not always easy to do. <br />
<br />
The announcements for us have been intimidating. We really had no idea how our families and friends would respond to adoption. So, cute and creative announcements were out. This announcement would come with a flurry of questions, and we needed to be prepared for that. <br />
<br />
No showers, I mean, how do you welcome a new family member that is not an infant anyway? I think babies come with some pretty predictable needs; strollers, diapers, clothes, car seat, wipes, and on and on. What do you put on your "adoption registry" at Target? Well, I know they will need clothes, but I am not sure of sizes and there all these rumors that they grow so fast, so don't go crazy on supplying a full closet of clothes. <br />
<br />
I think we will hold off on decorating her room. Luckily she gets to share her room with an amazing sister. It will be a good bonding experience for the girls to decorate their room together. <br />
<br />
So, I truly believe the best thing that we can share with you is the fact that our new daughter knows she has a family! An orphan, saddened after watching all her friends leave with their forever families,wondering if she will ever get a family. How long will she have to wait in this orphanage? Why aren't there any girls her age at the orphanage? God, do you hear her? Do you see her? Do you love her? The resounding answer is "Yes!" She is His masterpiece and he has plans for her life. Below is the email we received from our agency with the sweet news. In order to protect her, we can't share her name until we pass court, so she is "N" for now. <br />
<br />
" Zerithun told "N" today that she has a family. She said "N" was crying when she heard the news and that they were Meron's family. (Meron and "N" were friends at the orphanage) She expressed her happiest feelings, but was crying so they weren't able to have a long conversation. "N" was too emotional to really speak. Zerithun will meet with her next week and show her the picture you sent."<br />
<br />
Oh how I wish I could have been there when they told her. I wish we could have been there to celebrate with her. I wish I could have held her in my arms as she sobbed tears of joy. Oh sweet girl, your forever family is coming for you. Your God loves you more than you know. <br />
<br />
We are excited to get to know this young lady better. She is 14 years old, same age as Tyler and Dawit. She loves soccer and gymnastics. She is very smart and loves school. Her favorite subjects include; math, biology and English. Someday she would like to be a pilot<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-55479416401908908122013-04-28T23:16:00.001-06:002013-04-28T23:16:38.596-06:00DefeatWell after much prayer and consideration, Brad and I signed papers to welcome one more daughter in our family. So what's with the title you ask? I wish I could say that the week has been filled with joy and eager expectation for what God has in store for our family, but that would not be completely honest. <br />
<br />
This morning I got in a stupid argument with my son. Yep, ridiculous. He asked in a "tone" why I didn't get the right kind of milk. I wish I was gracious and waved off his tone and just explained why I had his health as a justification for the change in my shopping habits. Nope, instead I threw a full on tantrum. Slamming stuff around, sobbing tears, unreasonable ranting...you get the picture. I think I totally freaked out our newest family members, they probably think I am crazy and need medication. We will have to save that for another day. <br />
<br />
I excused myself to my room for some one on one time with my Abba father. Still sobbing, I asked for forgiveness and help. I had experienced this same sensation when we first started paperwork for Dawit and Meron. I was reminded at this point that our enemy was not happy with our obedience. He took it personal and brought out the big guns. I could hear the lies come pouring in as I cried. "You are not a good mother. They don't appreciate you and all that you do for them. What ever made you think that you can take on another child? Oh, and let's not even get started on your finances. How will you afford all this? How are you going to get all the time off from work that you and Brad will need? Why don't you just give up?" <br />
<br />
Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. John 8:32. God stepped in and showed me His truth. His promise is that he will never leave us, he waited for me to cry out to him for guidance, courage, strength and joy. I am not perfect, but he is and he lives in me. I am to seek his approval above all else, no one else, including my kids. It is not about me, it is about God and his glory.<br />
<br />
Philippians 4:4-7 "Rejoice in The Lord always, I say it again, rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all, the Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." God tells me to bring my requests to him, to remember all that he has provided and to rejoice. I don't know all the answers, but I do know that I can trust my God and his plans for our life. <br />
<br />
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you'" declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."<br />
<br />
So, now I know the root of my anxiety and my tantrum. I had taken my eyes off God and his power and was shining the light brightly at my own ability. I pray that he will fill me with his mighty power so I will have all the endurance and patience I need. May I be filled with joy, always thanking the father. <br />
<br />
I am done crying over spilled milk, so to speak, asked my son for forgiveness and am seeking God to protect my mind and heart. Ultimately, he is victorious. <br />
<br />
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-43294435425200632322013-04-21T22:12:00.000-06:002013-04-21T22:12:04.033-06:00Difficult decisions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLTgYnPUpNnxJcw_rrpanoACjhNoATlhF5WjJ4hqzmiwR9ijx9LR1gPbCcQ8h7RMP87cqOSQHADgLfhyphenhyphenq4FzWEUdRKNQghPpxPoIe180jrA0NL72ZugikktbonVPVG_fvrYmP2r4Fv0ia/s1600/2.3.12+import+534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLTgYnPUpNnxJcw_rrpanoACjhNoATlhF5WjJ4hqzmiwR9ijx9LR1gPbCcQ8h7RMP87cqOSQHADgLfhyphenhyphenq4FzWEUdRKNQghPpxPoIe180jrA0NL72ZugikktbonVPVG_fvrYmP2r4Fv0ia/s1600/2.3.12+import+534.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
January 21st, 2013 - our family went from 3 to 5. It is crazy to think that it has been 3 months already. We worked hard to bring Dawit and Meron home knowing that the journey was just beginning. It has been fun to get to know them both. We are all learning so much, although I cannot even begin to imagine what Dawit and Meron are experiencing in their new home. <br />
<br />
Last night we took them to their first movie in the United States. We saw the movie Oz. I highly recommend it if you have not seen it. I love the story line and imagery was spectacular. Surprisingly my husband brought up the fact that there was an adoption story woven through the movie. I didn't catch that until he brought it up. A sweet china doll has lost her family due to an attack from the wicked witch. She is not only alone, but she is broken. The wizard fixes her and she begs him to take her with. I find it interesting that his immediate response is "no". He immediately has a list of reasons why she cannot join him. I think we are similar to him. There are so many reasons why we cannot invite orphans to join us on "our" journey. She is persistent and he agrees to let her tag along. The story continues where she asks for her family back - the wizard is not able to bring her family back but he finally realizes that his "family" is good enough for her. (Sorry for those of you who have not seen it - I just gave away a piece of the ending.) He explains that they are not perfect, but that they will love her. Of course she accepts this gift. <br />
<br />
God has brought two beautiful "china dolls" into our life. We have been stretched in ways we never dreamed possible. We have learned more about our strengths, weaknesses, fears and dreams. We have been touched by their beauty. We have been touched by our bio 14 year old's ability to welcome them in and share everything he has had to himself - graciously. We love that Tyler is now passionate about Africa and looks forward to his next trip. Meron and Dawit have given us small glimpses into their lives in Ethiopia - all filled with joy and fond memories. We have shared some very special memories as a new family. We have also shared some painful times. <br />
<br />
The transition has not been easy. <br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>In a way, we are pioneering the way - working with doctors who have no idea what a child needs to be tested for from a third world country.</li>
<li>Working with teachers who have very limited experience working with children who don't speak English (who are already overwhelmed with large workloads, helping two children learn a complex language in order to do complex homework assignments).</li>
<li>Serving food to a child who is extremely picky (were talking no: peanut butter and jelly, mac and cheese, pizza, dairy, lunch meat, wheat bread, etc). I mean what on earth am I supposed to fix her for lunch? Why oh why does it frustrate me so much that this child, who has gone days with out food before, can wrinkle her nose at me when I have placed a plate of food in front of her? </li>
<li>Tyler has been stressed when he thinks that he is responsible for Dawit's grades in school and doesn't understand why Dawit can't comprehend what he is teaching him. </li>
<li>Brad has gone through a dark period due to this huge change in our family - change is just hard for him. He clings to stability and routine and this adjustment has rocked his core. </li>
<li>I struggle with balance - meeting everyone's needs with 3 busy teens and a husband who works two jobs. </li>
<li>Dawit and Meron are listening to a new language all day long, they are learning new cultural norms, eating strange new foods, learning expectations in the home and how to express their needs. </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It is hard. </div>
<br />
Why all the details? We met another "china doll" when we were in Ethiopia. She is broken and is asking to be loved. Brad and I have no experience with her pain - she would need help healing. She is 14 years old and gentle in spirit. Why would God want us to adopt again? We are still learning how to be a family, adjusting to new schedules, strange habits, congestion in the kitchen and bathrooms, trying to figure out how to do their hair, how to communicate, etc. We are still working thru all the change. We are still paying off a lot of debt that we acquired from our first adoption process. Why would we use tax returns and work reimbursements to invest in another child when we have debt hanging over our head? Why don't Brad and I see eye to eye on this? I believe that God wants us to adopt another girl. No burning bush, but a still small voice to love one more. Is this the one? Brad thinks we are not ready as a family. We need more time to bond before adopting again. I absolutely don't want to force this on him, but I want to obey God. Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Why does this seem so "easy" in some ways and yet so difficult in other ways? <br />
<br />
I just read a segment from my journal on January 18th, days before we would leave all that we knew as "normal" and return home completely changed. I wrote, "Are we ever ready to follow your will Lord? Will we ever be able to lose our insecurities, tower over fear and walk boldly for you?" I know that God uses these times to draw us close to him and remind us that he is the one who will provide, He is ALWAYS faithful, He will never leave us and He ultimately will bring us thru it. <br />
<br />
I also expressed, "I appreciate what Brad is feeling. I have some of the same questions swimming around my head." I love that God brought us together. Brad is good at asking the difficult questions out loud, where I tend to shy away from them. I am grateful that he asks and expects a genuine answer:<br />
<ul>
<li>Are you just doing this because our friends are adopting?</li>
<li>Are you suffering from post adoption depression?</li>
<li>Are you seeking to fill a hole that only God can fill?</li>
<li>Have you considered how this will impact our entire family? </li>
</ul>
I believe that we know God is directing us when it is something that is in line with his character but is out of our comfort zone, maybe something we would never even consider. I also believe that must seek God for wisdom and stay close to him for direction, daily. <br />
<br />
What is the answer for this "china doll?" Honestly, I don't know. We have to come together as a team and be on the same page. I trust God will make it clear. I don't want to be right - I want to follow and obey God. Maybe God has another family for her. Maybe....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-85352704971142296602012-09-14T06:59:00.000-06:002012-09-14T06:59:44.633-06:00Oh Happy Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CeNX_P333xkRNaxTnEVV136lfpkoYm0d0oMwebojrpOVgYRNDbXBbRemRRMmRVTqQ4GYC8iilWoY_8wWuQcSjw9eVEG7McLkfsjhTaBOLj2my0OG0TI5az_OTjzcFqKlIi_-q5xSQAYx/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CeNX_P333xkRNaxTnEVV136lfpkoYm0d0oMwebojrpOVgYRNDbXBbRemRRMmRVTqQ4GYC8iilWoY_8wWuQcSjw9eVEG7McLkfsjhTaBOLj2my0OG0TI5az_OTjzcFqKlIi_-q5xSQAYx/s320/070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Dossier is complete and in the mail! I am so relieved to have that completed. So, now we work on fund raising: Garage sale and bake sale 9/22, Lia Sophia Party 9/26, 5k 10/13. For all of our Utah friends and friends of Utah friends, if you would like to contribute to our garage sale and/or bake sale by donating items, please let me know.<br />
<br />
We are waiting for our court date now. We could be on our way to Ethiopia to meet our new family members by the end of October! I can't wait to meet them and give them hugs. Our son's birthday is Sunday - wish we could be there with him to celebrate. Praying for him and his sister that God will comfort them as they wait. <br />
<br />
Thanks for your continued prayers - we need them. :) <br />
Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-65043536437661659242012-09-09T20:13:00.000-06:002012-09-09T20:13:35.814-06:00Long Overdue update...Okay, so on August 15th, Brad and I decided that we would adopt a sibling set from Ethiopia. Honestly, It was a difficult decision. We originally requested a boy between the ages of 5 and 11. Apparently God had something else in mind for our family. I started watching the Waiting Child List at our adoption agency. I started to pray for the children listed. One sibling set kept coming to my mind. I argued with God that they were too old, but continued to pray that God would provide a family for them. One week I received an invite from a good friend to pray and fast for a circle of friends and their adoption process. I agreed. While running and talking to God, this sibling set came to mind again. I continued to argue with God about their age. God simply asked, "Why? Why do you want younger?" Such a simple question, but so powerful. I knew at that point God's direction. I was not sure how Brad would react. <br />
<br />
Brad was hesitant - basically for the same reasons that I listed. We eventually agreed to request their file. This would require approval from our Social Worker. She was very good at being honest with us. We finalized our Home Study and received their file. I wish I could say that we instantly knew that these were our kids. We were divided. I could see them as a part of our family. Brad did not think that were the right ones for our family. My prayer was that God would let Brad lead the decision. I wanted him to be at peace with this decision. I did not pray for God to change his mind. I prayed that God would help me let them go, to surrender them to him, if it was not His will to have them join our family. He did. He allowed me to focus on my walk with God. At then end of our decision period, I contacted our family coordinator to let her know that Brad and I were divided on the set. I let her know that we were worried about their ages, the timing and the cost. She talked us thru it was very gracious. Shortly after I got off the phone with her, she sent us an email with a video of the kids. The videos were wonderful. All I could think of was how I could raise money to bring them home. They were beautiful, beautiful smiles, beautiful eyes, just beautiful. I waited for Brad to come to discuss. <br />
<br />
After dinner we chatted about the videos and our feelings. He wondered about how we would do her hair and other things. He watched their videos multiple times, so did I. We both discussed our fears about the accelerated process and the need to raise the majority of the adoption costs in such a short amount of time. No decision was made, but we had a great conversation. The next morning I received the best text message ever! "I don't know how we are going to do this, but let our family coordinator know that we will take the kids." <br />
<br />
Okay, we are now a family of 5. We are bringing home a son about 14 years old and a daughter about 11 years old. That is about all I can share about them right now, until we go to court and they are officially ours. The exciting part is that they have been told that they have a family. So sweet. In the mean time we have been finishing up our Dossier and thinking of ways to come up with the adoption fees, about $22,000. <br />
<br />
We are working on a Garage sale, jewelry sale and hopefully an auction. Our dossier is almost done - waiting for USCIS fingerprint process to finish. Then we can send our Dossier in and get in line for court. Depending on the paperwork, funding, Ethiopian court, Embassy and ultimately God's divine will - our kids could be home by Christmas. <br />
<br />
Please keep us in your prayers. This journey continues to be very stressful. We know it will be worth it and our faith is strengthened every day. Also, if you have items that you would like to donate to our garage sale, please let me know. We have a couple of other fund raiser ideas in progress. We will keep you posted. Let me know if you have any ideas. Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-88357243058915573132012-07-05T10:51:00.000-06:002012-07-05T10:51:54.769-06:00The Paper Chase...James 1:2-8 NLT "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waiver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. <br />
<br />
We are currently in the affectionately termed "paper chase" of the adoption process. I can't believe what a humbling process this has been. I go to work and lead cross organizational teams thru complex projects with successful results. On a regular basis I take care of the administrative responsibilities for our house hold. So why can't I complete a form or letter successfully in this paper chase process? Unfortunately the errors made are not simple fixes. To correct the errors, involves a 3rd party to correct the paperwork, then I have to have it notarized again. I cannot express how frustrating this is to me. <br />
<br />
I am lead to James 1:2-8. James tells the people of the church to think of troubles as an opportunity for great joy. So, in this paper chase process I am learning that these "troubles" are opportunities for great joy. I need to remember that when my faith is tested, my endurance has a chance to grow. So am I just supposed to waive these troubles off when in all honesty, I am aggravated and grumpy? It would be easier to just throw in the towel and ask God for option B. I mean really, is adoption really your plan for our life? Why would you want anyone to go thru this inefficient process? Again, James is so helpful.<br />
<br />
I know that adoption is part of God's plan for our lives - he has been speaking His plan into our lives for 3 years now. I believe it is His plan because it is not something I would have chosen for my life. I also believe it is part of his plan because he is asking us to step out of our comfort zone. I am reminded of his discussion with Moses. Remember him? God speaks to him thru a burning bush (sometimes I wish he would talk to me like that) and tells him to leave his comfy shepherding job out in the wilderness, to go into the city and speak to the all powerful Pharaoh about leading the Israelites to freedom. Moses's response brings me comfort, because I am pretty sure I would have responded similarly. "Are you sure you picked the right person God? What if they don't like what I have to say? I am not a really good speaker. Can't you send someone else to do this task?" God asks Moses to leave the comfort zone to lead the Israelites to freedom. He did not say it would be easy - but he promised Moses that he would be with him and give him success in the task. Like Moses, I still have my doubts and ask him to send someone else. But then he shows me his strength and the fact that he is with me thru this. <br />
<br />
So now I start asking what I can learn from the paper chase process? I need to be humble, put my pride to the side, and ask others for help. I need to realize that I can't do this by myself. James also tells us to ask God when we lack wisdom. I think it is fair to say that in this situation, I totally lack wisdom. God is good and gives me great ideas or gives me the courage to reach out and ask others for assistance. <br />
<br />
Lord - I just have to tell you that this paper chase process is painful and I don't like it. I don't always understand it or agree with it. That being said, thank you for walking beside me and holding my hand. Thank you for the adoption agency that you established. Their staff has been gracious and patient with all my questions and long responses. Thank you for taking me out of my comfort zone because in the process, I meet wonderful people who have the opportunity to share your love with me. I am truly blessed by their actions. Thank you for the growth in my life because of these "troubles". Thank you for Moses example. Thank you for using me in your plan. You have heard the cry of the orphan and you have asked our family to lead one (maybe more) out of loneliness, fear and unsafe conditions. <br />Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-82691476429863620342012-01-28T16:53:00.000-07:002012-01-28T16:53:25.991-07:00Why Africa?After many conversations with God about adoption, I still had no clue of where to adopt from. There are so many options. After doing research, I learned that there are nearly 163 million orphans world wide! Can you believe that? So many children who cry out for a mom and dad. Proverbs 19:22 says, "What a man desires is unfailing love." We are hungry for love that we can count on. <br />
<br />
Why wouldn't we reach out to a child in the United States? There are plenty of orphans in the United States that need a loving family. We wouldn't have to travel. The cost could be less. But I kept thinking, we have a system here that takes care of those who need help. We have a foster care system. As an American, I am so blessed to live in a place that cares for the those who cannot care for themselves. I serve my local community and have seen the needs first hand. I have experienced American poverty and know the joy of God meeting my needs. I am so grateful that God worked thru my neighbors, family and friends when I needed that support. <br />
<br />
I read more. I read about the many orphans in China, India and Africa. I read about mission trips to support orphanages and learned that some of the trips purpose was to simply hold and care for orphans. This just blows my mind! Then I saw this video and my world was changed. <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/31278931" target="_blank">http://vimeo.com/31278931</a><br />
<br />
I could not wrap my mind around the fact that human beings live at the trash dump to survive. Their friends, family and neighbors cannot help because they are in the same bleak situation. I believe that this is where God wants us to go because of the degree of need in Ethiopia. I know that God has a good plan for each of our lives. Part of His plan for our life is to adopt a little boy from Ethiopia. We have requested a boy between the ages of 5 and 11. <br />
<br />
So why the Blog name, "Running to Africa"? I love running. Please understand that I have not always enjoyed running. In fact, in high school I did whatever I could do to get out of running. I may have even made up some story that I had sports induced asthma to get out of running. It was not until I was in my late twenties that I realized I needed some physical outlet. Some crazy friends introduced me to running. It still took some getting used to. Then my world came crashing down. I faced a huge family transition with my husband's return after a long military deployment. I received a promotion at work which turned out to be high stress. I put a lot of pressure on myself to succeed in this new role. Then, I was involved with a big "falling out" with some very close friends. My heart was broken. I lost my will to carry on. I wanted to end my life. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaHKrKYaMmeISPk3PFVuMPURVN8eEeE4OkonK9bxbnufqo5MlqJXUvNTzKThJkkIjyFOr-oBLss69o_8WyXfzcjA_UhXuYcv6PuoTn0rX-o5dmOKR_gy-Fz1ghLocQfxpcQnaAlJr85E7/s1600/085_85.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaHKrKYaMmeISPk3PFVuMPURVN8eEeE4OkonK9bxbnufqo5MlqJXUvNTzKThJkkIjyFOr-oBLss69o_8WyXfzcjA_UhXuYcv6PuoTn0rX-o5dmOKR_gy-Fz1ghLocQfxpcQnaAlJr85E7/s320/085_85.JPG" width="320" /></a>I thank God that He surrounded me with loving friends and family. I am grateful that I knew the signs of depression and what to do to get help. That does not mean that the road traveled was easy. It was dirty and difficult. But God brought me through it. He brought healing and restoration. The best treasure He gave me in bondage was running. I signed up for a half marathon with a dear friend. Running brought healing and joy. It is a big stress reliever and I have the added bonus of making so many good friends who share the passion of running. So, how can I use running to glorify God?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Uwm11c9nw-1w8iXwKvLBvf6YNelFysNmL1q-phBOhyElrcfRCzVUkVooFEZ7LdTG-i6O1CJlCRVbYB9jTzxeehZ3dLQK6WAu6GXPg2TnrwBu-9G6Yp8MRjfngQeRn-gPm2hrG2DHLdR3/s1600/100_0837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Uwm11c9nw-1w8iXwKvLBvf6YNelFysNmL1q-phBOhyElrcfRCzVUkVooFEZ7LdTG-i6O1CJlCRVbYB9jTzxeehZ3dLQK6WAu6GXPg2TnrwBu-9G6Yp8MRjfngQeRn-gPm2hrG2DHLdR3/s320/100_0837.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEI4JMpZpmPtKyM0QYJD1g5ZQotFBnvQY5HqjIFlSc7Il4I9hwFbWx4_gMpvvLtdeNqNh21HFbBRmvBLQ9eHFXaMONgH7zf4ueEyGdAi-hQKmIVWY5Tgjw82x4dSdi6dTUnmdNm6QWo7yp/s1600/100_0870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEI4JMpZpmPtKyM0QYJD1g5ZQotFBnvQY5HqjIFlSc7Il4I9hwFbWx4_gMpvvLtdeNqNh21HFbBRmvBLQ9eHFXaMONgH7zf4ueEyGdAi-hQKmIVWY5Tgjw82x4dSdi6dTUnmdNm6QWo7yp/s320/100_0870.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcdWfJnDt7qAQfegEI5UdCLGjb0lw1nu8skUL1drkljgZHcm-HVrPstJbR2n90r0L7H0Wo4WshWkbyZoaEhPeDbAU3QpWi4NvgVDS67BHKgoBlZ7Qqwz251_MDLQ1p_flzJAnmP8QX_T-/s1600/Family+Spring+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcdWfJnDt7qAQfegEI5UdCLGjb0lw1nu8skUL1drkljgZHcm-HVrPstJbR2n90r0L7H0Wo4WshWkbyZoaEhPeDbAU3QpWi4NvgVDS67BHKgoBlZ7Qqwz251_MDLQ1p_flzJAnmP8QX_T-/s320/Family+Spring+014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
What if I use running to raise money, awareness and support for Africa? What a great idea!? I thought that it might be a neat idea to run as many miles as it is from Utah to Ethiopia. The closest measurement I can find is 8,190 miles. Wow! Okay, that is a lot of miles. I am not putting anything close to 8,000 miles in a year, or even two years. But, I know some other people who love running. Maybe I could even include some biking miles, right? I am currently dreaming about how to put it all together. I can't wait to see how it works out. <br />
<br />
On the other hand, there is the spiritual aspect. For years I have dug my feet in and disobeyed God's direction for adoption. Now I trust God. Now I am running to Africa and adoption. <br />
<br />
While I run I dream about our son to be. What he is like. Who is friends are. I pray for him. I pray for God to keep him safe. I pray that he will know that he is loved. I pray that God will prepare me and Brad to be parents to two children. I pray that God will prepare Tyler to have a brother. I pray that God will prepare us all to be a family. Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473058372982402543.post-33129777393082441172012-01-15T21:31:00.001-07:002012-01-17T14:17:35.444-07:00"Why can't you be normal?"One night at the dinner table Brad asked, "Why can't you be normal?" Good question. My husband is full of good questions. <br />
<br />
Adoption has been on my heart full time for the last three years. I knew it was a seed planted by God because there was nothing inside of me that longed to adopt a child. As a girl, I never dreamed about how many kids I would have. The only thing I knew I wanted was to meet "Prince Charming." Well, God answered that dream by giving me Brad - cheesy, right? I know, but it is true. I thought all my dreams would come true if I could only have "Mr. Right" in my life. <br />
<br />
Through life's journey, I have learned that God is the only one who can meet all my needs, not Mr. Right. or anything else for that matter. If I don't seek Him, my life will not be filled with the joy that he has in store for me. I tend to overlook this fact, I get busy and put quiet time to the side. Sure, I pray and read the Bible, unfortunately, I get into the habit of doing it to "check the box". I don't take the time to apply his direction to my life. It does not take long for me to realize that something is missing, like I am just going thru the motions. So, I cry out to God for help, again. I admit that I can't do it without him and that I need him. He begins to speak to me and show me where my sin is. It is uncomfortable, but worth it. I read verses that tell me that if I love God, I will obey him. I begin to study the book of James. James 1:25 "The man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does." The "doing it" part is key here. <br />
<br />
He reminds me that I am adopted into his family because of the work of his son - Jesus. He reminds me that he wants me to adopt. Wait, what? <br />
<br />
I believe that God works thru the things and people around us. I started hearing about adoption on the radio and on tv. I was moved to see the millions of children who don't have a parent making sure they are safe, loved, fed, dressed, warm, etc. 3 years went by. More orphan stories came to my attention and God began prompting me to adopt. I immediately came back with many excuses, I mean reasons why we were not meant to adopt:<br />
<ul><li>We only have a two bedroom house</li>
<li>We have debt</li>
<li>There is no way we can afford adoption, have you seen how expensive it is? </li>
<li>I am comfortable with one child and he is at an age where he can take care of himself</li>
<li>I love my job and don't want to stop working - how do I manage another child with a great career?</li>
<li>I would not even know where to start, or this is too hard</li>
<li>What if I don't bond with the child?</li>
<li>This is way out of my comfort zone. (I am a control freak)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFJ_R9dpIdUy7gEE_n2RNMM-y6YFM-ijv5HfgIEwWMqZEWyytXa-zAF0vF1lUs30sbOSu56gndCUCq4q9KsmmBXbhUWR9qNCRV_D7SKdMDuFP_gJdMpEFDgmxwnNqAOeuzcGxvisggN2D/s1600/Set3_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFJ_R9dpIdUy7gEE_n2RNMM-y6YFM-ijv5HfgIEwWMqZEWyytXa-zAF0vF1lUs30sbOSu56gndCUCq4q9KsmmBXbhUWR9qNCRV_D7SKdMDuFP_gJdMpEFDgmxwnNqAOeuzcGxvisggN2D/s320/Set3_01.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
The best "reason" we could not adopt was that Brad said, "No." I could not start this journey with out my husband on board. So, I decisively put the idea on the shelf. <br />
<br />
When I came back to sitting at God's feet, he said, "Elisabeth, I did not give you a spirit of timidity, but of love and power." I was scared to bring up the topic with Brad. I should just wait for God to change his mind without my help. That was not what God had in mind. Through prayer and time in God's word, he helped me approach Brad again. I told him the adoption plans that God had placed on my heart. Brad was not interested. I told him that I needed him to pray about it. He reluctantly agreed. <br />
<br />
This brings us back to our conversation at the dinner table. My response to being normal was , "Normal is not good enough." I am tired of just going thru the motions. I want to continue to look intently in God's word and apply it to my life. I have asked the difficult questions:<br />
<ul><li>Are you doing this because everyone else at church is doing it? </li>
<li>Are you doing this because you recently lost a baby?</li>
<li>Are you doing this because you only have one child and he is growing up so fast? </li>
<li>Are you doing this to seek the approval of others?</li>
<li>Are you doing this to fill the "gap" in your life?</li>
</ul>I could confidently answer "no" to all these questions. Jeremiah 29:11-14a says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and will bring you back from captivity." I know with out a doubt that God loves the orphans and he wants me to love them too. I am confident that he will provide the resources that we need and that he will<u> never</u> leave our side on this journey. I thank God that Brad did seek God's guidance and direction and that Brad said "yes".Elisabeth Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03140308960722310435noreply@blogger.com