This morning as I was driving to work I was listening to the song “How Great Is Our God.” I almost always get emotional when I sing this song - today was no exception. Especially after the amazing way God provided for our adoption yesterday.
When I got home John handed me an envelope that one of his co-workers had given to him (he had already opened it). When I looked inside there was a check for $1,000! Can you believe it??? $1,000!!!!
I couldn’t believe my eyes! I am humbled by the sacrifice this couple made to help us bring home our Missing Linck. They, too, have adopted and know the joys and financial stresses of this journey we are on. We are so thankful for their generous donation. Words can’t adequately express our gratitude.
I must say that it’s kind of hard to write the words above, when I know there is a family trying desperately to come up with the money they need to bring their little girl home. Please consider making a donation to this family. Every $1 makes a difference. If they can’t come up with the money they need (it’s only about $3000) they will not be able to bring their daughter home. Pray, pray, pray that God will move mountains for this family. I know He can….
A few other updates for you:
• We have already heard back from Gladney. They received our application and family photo but have requested a letter from John’s doctor regarding his Crohn’s Disease. We are hoping his doctor will have the letter ready today. Once we turn that in we should be set to proceed to the next step of the process.
• We are still selling t-shirts! We need to sell 25 more before we can place the order. Please spread the word. If you want a shirt you can order it through the blog (the button is on the right side) and I will mail it to you.
• We are also still selling Puzzle Pieces. So far we have sold 20 pieces. Still need to sell 40 pieces so that we can put the puzzle together, frame it and hang it in the nursery. Remember, when you sponsor a piece for $20, your name will be written on the back of the piece. We want to remember everyone who has helped us bring this baby home. You can sponsor a puzzle piece here on the blog too (right hand side)
• Now through November 12, my sister is having her Scentsy Fundraiser to benefit our adoption. It’s a great way to get your Christmas shopping done early. Myka will be donating all of her earnings towards the adoption (that’s 20% of all sales). You can purchase items here.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Here's Your Chance to Help....
****UPDATE - This family still needs our help! Please consider making a donation to their adoption fund. Every $1 makes a difference. Will you help???
There is a sweet girl in Africa with HIV - she has a family. A mere $2300 is needed to bring her home. Many of my "adoption family" facebook friends are posting the link to the families blog on their facebook pages and personal blogs. If every one of my facebook friends donated $5 they would be covered. Will you consider helping?
This family is already adopting two boys from Africa, but they saw this precious little girl and fell in love with her. They only need $2300 to bring her home BUT they have to have it by the end of this week to accept the referral. I know that God can provide for this family! He gives homes to the fatherless! He cares for orphans!
Your donation could mean this little girl LIVES! That for the first time in her life, she will be loved and have a family.
I made a donation, will you???
Please visit the families blog at http://bringingeyerushome.blogspot.com/
There is a sweet girl in Africa with HIV - she has a family. A mere $2300 is needed to bring her home. Many of my "adoption family" facebook friends are posting the link to the families blog on their facebook pages and personal blogs. If every one of my facebook friends donated $5 they would be covered. Will you consider helping?
This family is already adopting two boys from Africa, but they saw this precious little girl and fell in love with her. They only need $2300 to bring her home BUT they have to have it by the end of this week to accept the referral. I know that God can provide for this family! He gives homes to the fatherless! He cares for orphans!
Your donation could mean this little girl LIVES! That for the first time in her life, she will be loved and have a family.
I made a donation, will you???
Please visit the families blog at http://bringingeyerushome.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
What Will You Do???
I haven’t always had a heart for the poor. Truth be told, the poverty other countries face, never even crossed my mind until recently. God has changed me. Through this adoption process, He has softened my heart. God is continuing to change me – to make me more like Him. He is giving me a heart for the poor. He is causing my heart to hurt for the people around the world who have no clean water, who die from preventable diseases and live on $2 or less a day.
This morning as I was driving to work I was praying about our adoption. I was praying that God would continue to change me. To take me outside of my comfort zone; to make me His hands and feet. I don’t want to go through this process and not be changed – I honestly don’t think that’s an option.
I still get a little overwhelmed sometimes about the amount of money we still need to raise in order to fund this adoption. We just turned in our first application and we are still thousands of dollars away from our goal. I know that God will provide the resources. He equips those He has called. I know He has called John and me for this journey. It’s just that our human minds can’t comprehend how we will come up with the rest of the money.
This morning while I was praying, emotion just overcame me. With tears streaming down my face, I prayed “God, I think it pretty much sucks that such a big sum of money stands in the way of so many children having families.”
I am so glad I can be honest with God. I think the emotions behind that prayer stemmed from a story I read yesterday. Once again, I was reminded that I live in a world where so many people are in need of food, clothes, love, hope and, more than anything, Jesus.
I sat at my desk yesterday with a big lump in my throat, choking back tears. I read about this family from Texas, who recently moved to Haiti. They have sacrificed comfort and the American Dream, to reach out and help people in desperate need.
The family shared a story on their blog about a Haitian woman who begged and pleaded with them to take her four week old baby because she couldn’t care for it. Because of strict Haitian adoption laws, the family couldn’t take the baby and she ended up in an orphanage.
The family went to visit the orphanage where the baby was taken and found her lying on a dirt floor, sucking her fingers trying to soothe herself, with tears rolling down her cheeks. She was covered in spit up. They had posted a picture of the little girl on their blog.
Her eyes were filled with so much sadness that my heart just broke in two. I ache at the thought of a little baby in Ethiopia yearning for someone to love them. That baby in the photo could have been or could be our baby. The day when John and I bring our baby home, can’t get here soon enough.
To quote the family in Haiti: "While many American churches are worrying about the lighting on their stage, or fussing over the displays in their foyer, children are suffering in orphanages, groaning….aching….for someone to come redeem their lives.”
I realize that not everyone is called to adopt a child. But I think as Christians, we are called to do something. We aren’t supposed to turn our heads, close our eyes and forget. What will you do to help a child in need? What will you do to make sure people hear the good news of Jesus Christ?
The answer really isn’t that hard. It’s as easy as saying a prayer. It’s as easy as giving up a Starbucks coffee each day (or for me a Dr Pepper). I know of several families right now who are trying to come up with the funds to bring home their babies. Please pray for them. Please consider donating to their adoption. You can find out more about them on the following blogs.
http://ourtreeofhope.blogspot.com
http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com
http://expecting-from-ethiopia.blogspot.com
This morning as I was driving to work I was praying about our adoption. I was praying that God would continue to change me. To take me outside of my comfort zone; to make me His hands and feet. I don’t want to go through this process and not be changed – I honestly don’t think that’s an option.
I still get a little overwhelmed sometimes about the amount of money we still need to raise in order to fund this adoption. We just turned in our first application and we are still thousands of dollars away from our goal. I know that God will provide the resources. He equips those He has called. I know He has called John and me for this journey. It’s just that our human minds can’t comprehend how we will come up with the rest of the money.
This morning while I was praying, emotion just overcame me. With tears streaming down my face, I prayed “God, I think it pretty much sucks that such a big sum of money stands in the way of so many children having families.”
I am so glad I can be honest with God. I think the emotions behind that prayer stemmed from a story I read yesterday. Once again, I was reminded that I live in a world where so many people are in need of food, clothes, love, hope and, more than anything, Jesus.
I sat at my desk yesterday with a big lump in my throat, choking back tears. I read about this family from Texas, who recently moved to Haiti. They have sacrificed comfort and the American Dream, to reach out and help people in desperate need.
The family shared a story on their blog about a Haitian woman who begged and pleaded with them to take her four week old baby because she couldn’t care for it. Because of strict Haitian adoption laws, the family couldn’t take the baby and she ended up in an orphanage.
The family went to visit the orphanage where the baby was taken and found her lying on a dirt floor, sucking her fingers trying to soothe herself, with tears rolling down her cheeks. She was covered in spit up. They had posted a picture of the little girl on their blog.
Her eyes were filled with so much sadness that my heart just broke in two. I ache at the thought of a little baby in Ethiopia yearning for someone to love them. That baby in the photo could have been or could be our baby. The day when John and I bring our baby home, can’t get here soon enough.
To quote the family in Haiti: "While many American churches are worrying about the lighting on their stage, or fussing over the displays in their foyer, children are suffering in orphanages, groaning….aching….for someone to come redeem their lives.”
I realize that not everyone is called to adopt a child. But I think as Christians, we are called to do something. We aren’t supposed to turn our heads, close our eyes and forget. What will you do to help a child in need? What will you do to make sure people hear the good news of Jesus Christ?
The answer really isn’t that hard. It’s as easy as saying a prayer. It’s as easy as giving up a Starbucks coffee each day (or for me a Dr Pepper). I know of several families right now who are trying to come up with the funds to bring home their babies. Please pray for them. Please consider donating to their adoption. You can find out more about them on the following blogs.
http://ourtreeofhope.blogspot.com
http://thisshubinclan.blogspot.com
http://expecting-from-ethiopia.blogspot.com
Once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know and holds us responsible to act...
Proverbs 24:12
Monday, October 25, 2010
Golf Tournament = HUGE Success
The golf tournament turned out better than I could have imagined. I don't know why I'm surprised. God was in control the whole time. The rain held off until the last couple of holes, so the golfers stayed dry for the most part. We raised $2800. Enough to split the proceeds with our friends who have also started the adoption process. Two families will soon have their babies in their arms. Thanks to everyone who came out to play, who donated prizes and were a part of this amazing event. We couldn't have done it without you.
Here are some photos from the tournament:
Here are some photos from the tournament:
John, Me, Sommer and Neil
Lance, Stephanie and Solomon came to visit
Adrienne, Scott, Ryan and John
Billy, Greg, Scott and Ryan
Matt Cloud's Team
Neville, Evan, Bethany and Jeremy
Todd's Team
Neil's Team
Me and Sophia
John and Sophia
Myka and Sommer drawing winners for the prizes
My family: Dad, Myka, John, Me and Mom
Sunday, October 24, 2010
WE DID IT!!!!
We just hit the submit button and our first application is on it's way to Gladney! What a great way to celebrate our 2 year wedding anniversary!!!!
Here are some photos to capture the moment.........
Here we are holding the application.....
Working to submit the application online....
We did it....Happy Anniversary!
The family photo we submitted
We are SO excited....the official process has begun! I will be posting photos from the golf tournament tomorrow. It was a huge success and we were able to raise enough money to help another couple who is starting the adoption process. God is SO good!!!
Friday, October 22, 2010
The Golf Tournament is Tomorrow...
I can't believe our golf tournament is tomorrow! It seems like it was just yesterday when we came up with the idea and started planning! God is so good. We have 16 teams signed up to play and we have a TON of amazing prizes! Thank you to everyone who sponsored a team, is playing in the tournament and who donated prizes.
My friend asked me today if I had talked to God about the rain. It's been raining here all day and there's a slight chance for more tomorrow. I told my friend that I am not worried. Everything for this golf tournament has fallen into place over the past week - only God can do that! The weather is not going to put a stop to this tournament. God has it all under control. I know this golf tournament is going to happen and it's going to be good. I'll post pictures from the tournament tomorrow and update everyone on how much we raised!
My friend asked me today if I had talked to God about the rain. It's been raining here all day and there's a slight chance for more tomorrow. I told my friend that I am not worried. Everything for this golf tournament has fallen into place over the past week - only God can do that! The weather is not going to put a stop to this tournament. God has it all under control. I know this golf tournament is going to happen and it's going to be good. I'll post pictures from the tournament tomorrow and update everyone on how much we raised!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Clinging to God During the Desert Times.....
My pastor posted this on our church blog and I had to share it. Good stuff! Thanks Todd!!
I think God equips everyone He calls. When we look at the life of David, we see that his call was to be King of God’s people. The preparation that God gave David was not one that honed his leadership or wisdom but instead his heart. I believe God prepares the hearts of His people for the call that He places on their lives. David’s time in the desert prepared his heart for three things.
1) To know that God is the strength that will carry you through any circumstance.
2) To know that God will guide your decision making if your heart is in line with His.
3) To know that God is sovereign and His will is perfect in every situation.
Regardless of the call that God places on your life, He will prepare your heart to faithfully fulfill that call if you are willing to be obedient during the desert times. My prayer is that you would graciously accept the desert seasons in your life and that those seasons would ready your heart to live the life God has called you to.
Todd Theissen [Lead Pastor]
I think God equips everyone He calls. When we look at the life of David, we see that his call was to be King of God’s people. The preparation that God gave David was not one that honed his leadership or wisdom but instead his heart. I believe God prepares the hearts of His people for the call that He places on their lives. David’s time in the desert prepared his heart for three things.
1) To know that God is the strength that will carry you through any circumstance.
2) To know that God will guide your decision making if your heart is in line with His.
3) To know that God is sovereign and His will is perfect in every situation.
Regardless of the call that God places on your life, He will prepare your heart to faithfully fulfill that call if you are willing to be obedient during the desert times. My prayer is that you would graciously accept the desert seasons in your life and that those seasons would ready your heart to live the life God has called you to.
Todd Theissen [Lead Pastor]
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
God's Provision....
Once again God is proving Himself faithful. I don’t know why I’m even surprised. That’s what He does best, especially when we have faith and earnestly seek Him. This week God has blessed John and I with simple reminders that He is in control of this adoption and WILL provide the resources we need.
He’s provided through the t-shirts we have sold this week
He’s provided through the Scentsy fundraiser my sister is doing and through the Christmas Frenzy we are participating in
He provided yesterday when we received a $250 donation from someone we have never even met face-to-face
He’s provided all the teams we need for the golf tournament on Saturday (Thank You Jesus! I’ve been a nervous wreck about this!)
This weekend He provided through a new friend who sold some of her scrapbook paper at our retreat and donated the money to our adoption fund.
He has provided MANY people who are lifting John and I and this adoption up in prayer.
He provided another $50 donation this morning.
He's provided through Sophia's Birthday Celebration fundraiser.
AND He has taught me some amazing lessons this week through the prophet Habakkuk.
Habakkuk 1:5 says “Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days - you would not believe if you were told.” (I never would have dreamed that God would give John and I hearts for Ethiopia and ask us to travel across the world to bring home a child).
Habakkuk was in a season of waiting – kind of like John and I are. We are waiting on God’s perfect timing to bring home our baby from Ethiopia.
“While Habakkuk waited on God to answer, God was already answering! God wanted to restore Habakkuk’s confidence by showing him that He was not idle and uninterested in the demise of Judah. Even though the prophet wasn’t seeing God respond in the way and timing he expected, God was speaking and moving. He always is – even in His silence.” (Priscilla Shirer)
I can’t completely relate with Habakkuk because God has been anything but silent lately – just look at the list of how He has provided for us, JUST THIS WEEK. But I can relate with Habakkuk’s impatience – His desire to know God’s plan for Judah NOW. I desire to be a mother so desperately and to meet this baby that God has chosen for our family that I would give just about anything to hop on a plane to Ethiopia right now.
“Instead of walking in daily obedience, we desire to see the end result of God’s plan now. Habakkuk’s need for patience was so great, the Lord prefaced His message with a reminder for Habakkuk to not try to carry out God’s plan before its due season.” (Shirer)
I must remember that God’s timing is perfect. He will provide the resources exactly when we need them and we will get on that plane and go meet our baby exactly when we are supposed to. God has given us a heart for adoption and caused us to fall in love with a baby somewhere in Ethiopia whom we don’t even know. He will follow through on His promise. He will make a way…..
“While the righteous man trusts God will fulfill His word, the proud man (self-reliant) depends on himself to bring things to pass. When we seek God in faith, He promises us great reward.” (Shirer)
He’s provided through the t-shirts we have sold this week
He’s provided through the Scentsy fundraiser my sister is doing and through the Christmas Frenzy we are participating in
He provided yesterday when we received a $250 donation from someone we have never even met face-to-face
He’s provided all the teams we need for the golf tournament on Saturday (Thank You Jesus! I’ve been a nervous wreck about this!)
This weekend He provided through a new friend who sold some of her scrapbook paper at our retreat and donated the money to our adoption fund.
He has provided MANY people who are lifting John and I and this adoption up in prayer.
He provided another $50 donation this morning.
He's provided through Sophia's Birthday Celebration fundraiser.
AND He has taught me some amazing lessons this week through the prophet Habakkuk.
Habakkuk 1:5 says “Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days - you would not believe if you were told.” (I never would have dreamed that God would give John and I hearts for Ethiopia and ask us to travel across the world to bring home a child).
Habakkuk was in a season of waiting – kind of like John and I are. We are waiting on God’s perfect timing to bring home our baby from Ethiopia.
“While Habakkuk waited on God to answer, God was already answering! God wanted to restore Habakkuk’s confidence by showing him that He was not idle and uninterested in the demise of Judah. Even though the prophet wasn’t seeing God respond in the way and timing he expected, God was speaking and moving. He always is – even in His silence.” (Priscilla Shirer)
I can’t completely relate with Habakkuk because God has been anything but silent lately – just look at the list of how He has provided for us, JUST THIS WEEK. But I can relate with Habakkuk’s impatience – His desire to know God’s plan for Judah NOW. I desire to be a mother so desperately and to meet this baby that God has chosen for our family that I would give just about anything to hop on a plane to Ethiopia right now.
“Instead of walking in daily obedience, we desire to see the end result of God’s plan now. Habakkuk’s need for patience was so great, the Lord prefaced His message with a reminder for Habakkuk to not try to carry out God’s plan before its due season.” (Shirer)
I must remember that God’s timing is perfect. He will provide the resources exactly when we need them and we will get on that plane and go meet our baby exactly when we are supposed to. God has given us a heart for adoption and caused us to fall in love with a baby somewhere in Ethiopia whom we don’t even know. He will follow through on His promise. He will make a way…..
“While the righteous man trusts God will fulfill His word, the proud man (self-reliant) depends on himself to bring things to pass. When we seek God in faith, He promises us great reward.” (Shirer)
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Hebrews 11:6
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Buy a Christmas Gift - Give the Best Gift of All
Christmas will be here before you know it and I have the PERFECT way for you to get some shopping done without a whole lotta hassle. The best news is your purchases will help us Bring Home our Missing Linck AND potentially help other families who are adopting.
Another adoptive family has started CHRISTMAS FRENZY to help families who are trying to raise money bring their babies home. You can read all about it here.
My sister (a.k.a Aunt Myka) has decided to host a fundraiser for our adoption and has generously said she will donate all the proceeds that she makes through her Scentsy business October 18 - November 12. Thank you Myka!!!! Your niece or nephew will love you for this!!!!
If you place an order during this time period, all proceeds will go to our adoption AND you will receive all your merchandise in time for Christmas. So start shopping NOW!
Just visit my sister's website at www.scentsy.com/51961
Anyone who orders $50 or more in Scentsy product, will be entered into a drawing to win a free Scentsy system (a $40 value).
So why not cross off a few names on that Christmas list. You'll be giving one of the best gifts of all - an orphan a home with their forever family!
Another adoptive family has started CHRISTMAS FRENZY to help families who are trying to raise money bring their babies home. You can read all about it here.
My sister (a.k.a Aunt Myka) has decided to host a fundraiser for our adoption and has generously said she will donate all the proceeds that she makes through her Scentsy business October 18 - November 12. Thank you Myka!!!! Your niece or nephew will love you for this!!!!
If you place an order during this time period, all proceeds will go to our adoption AND you will receive all your merchandise in time for Christmas. So start shopping NOW!
Just visit my sister's website at www.scentsy.com/51961
Anyone who orders $50 or more in Scentsy product, will be entered into a drawing to win a free Scentsy system (a $40 value).
So why not cross off a few names on that Christmas list. You'll be giving one of the best gifts of all - an orphan a home with their forever family!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
My Prayer.....
A few days ago I spent my lunch break crying in my Chicken Express gravy. The next day I was singing this song at the top of my lungs; declaring God’s promises!!! What a difference a day can make when you have jacked up hormones. I wanted to share the lyrics of this song because it's truly my prayer these days. May I cling to God and His promises, no matter if I am in the the middle of the desert, the fire, the battle or the harvest.
This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides
This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I’ll stand
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have reason to sing
I have a reason to worship
And this is my prayer in the harvest
when favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I received I will sow
(Desert Song, Hillsong)
This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides
This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I’ll stand
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have reason to sing
I have a reason to worship
And this is my prayer in the harvest
when favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I received I will sow
(Desert Song, Hillsong)
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Emotional Low....
This weekend has been really tough! My emotions have been all over the place.
On Friday night, John and I were talking about how much it hurts sometimes to hear of so many couples we know who are expecting or who are having babies. Don't get me wrong...we are super happy for them, but because of what we are going through and our inability to conceive a child, it's painful. There are a lot of emotions involved....
John was telling me that until recently, the news of others having/expecting a baby, didn't really affect him the way it seemed to affect me (emotionally speaking).
But last week John received an e-mail from some friends of ours who have been married almost a year. The subject of the e-mail said "New Addition to the Family." John said he immediately got this ache on the inside as he thought that he was about to have to read of another friend getting pregnant quickly and easily. When he read the e-mail he realized that the "new addition" was a puppy.
He admitted to me that all these other people having babies, is finally starting to affect him emotionally.
Saturday morning we received a phone call from some friends of ours who have been struggling with some fertility issues like us. We have really been praying for them and asking God to bless them with another child because we know that's their hearts desire. Well they called Saturday to tell us that God had answered the many prayers that we have lifted up on their behalf - they were expecting.
I'm not going to lie or sugar-coat things....although I am SO happy for them and was reminded once again of God's faithfulness, I was also crushed!
I would like to say that I hit my knees and let God comfort me in my time of heartache or that I opened my Bible and rested on God's promises. I didn't! I bawled like a baby! I let it hurt, wallowed in it actually. I grieved. I grieved about all the health issues I'm having, I grieved the fact that I may not ever be able to conceive a child. I think I even cried because I want so badly to get on a plane to Ethiopia and meet that precious baby God has chosen for us, but we still have a long time before that happens. My heart's desire is to be a mom!
After a bunch of tears, I still didn't seek comfort from God. I went out and bought a new pair of shoes.
Retail Therapy...probably not the best way to handle my emotions.
On top of the emotions tied to wanting to be a mother, I'm also dealing with the emotions that come from the health issues I'm dealing with. I've been at an emotional low lately (thanks to jacked up hormones!)
This week, after doing some research, I realized that I had to get serious about this health problem. I couldn't just blow it off like it was no big deal, like some people have done. I realized that I needed to make some pretty big life changes for the sake of my health. I have a condition, that if not treated properly, could turn into bigger problems.
I started a 5:30 a.m. boot camp this week. Thanks to Stacia and Natalie for their encouragement, prayers and support! I have also cut down to one Dr Pepper a day. Those who know me, know that this is HUGE for me....(my body is so sore from the workouts and my head is pounding from lack of caffeine...)
I am humbly asking you to pray for me. I am really struggling in this desert place that I am in. I think I have let my pride keep me from being completely honest about just how hard this is for me.
Today at church we started a series on the life of King David. David was not a perfect man, but he exemplified major patience and trust in God's plan for his life. God promised David he would be king, but it took 25 years for David to inherit that promise. My Bible commentary says "through daily troubles David's faith grew and he discovered his God-given strengths...David had no idea how his faithfulness in daily living would play into God's bigger plan....and neither do we."
In our deserts, what would happen if instead of taking matters into our own hands, trying to do things in our own strength, we had patience and trust in God the way David did???
On Friday night, John and I were talking about how much it hurts sometimes to hear of so many couples we know who are expecting or who are having babies. Don't get me wrong...we are super happy for them, but because of what we are going through and our inability to conceive a child, it's painful. There are a lot of emotions involved....
John was telling me that until recently, the news of others having/expecting a baby, didn't really affect him the way it seemed to affect me (emotionally speaking).
But last week John received an e-mail from some friends of ours who have been married almost a year. The subject of the e-mail said "New Addition to the Family." John said he immediately got this ache on the inside as he thought that he was about to have to read of another friend getting pregnant quickly and easily. When he read the e-mail he realized that the "new addition" was a puppy.
He admitted to me that all these other people having babies, is finally starting to affect him emotionally.
Saturday morning we received a phone call from some friends of ours who have been struggling with some fertility issues like us. We have really been praying for them and asking God to bless them with another child because we know that's their hearts desire. Well they called Saturday to tell us that God had answered the many prayers that we have lifted up on their behalf - they were expecting.
I'm not going to lie or sugar-coat things....although I am SO happy for them and was reminded once again of God's faithfulness, I was also crushed!
I would like to say that I hit my knees and let God comfort me in my time of heartache or that I opened my Bible and rested on God's promises. I didn't! I bawled like a baby! I let it hurt, wallowed in it actually. I grieved. I grieved about all the health issues I'm having, I grieved the fact that I may not ever be able to conceive a child. I think I even cried because I want so badly to get on a plane to Ethiopia and meet that precious baby God has chosen for us, but we still have a long time before that happens. My heart's desire is to be a mom!
After a bunch of tears, I still didn't seek comfort from God. I went out and bought a new pair of shoes.
Retail Therapy...probably not the best way to handle my emotions.
On top of the emotions tied to wanting to be a mother, I'm also dealing with the emotions that come from the health issues I'm dealing with. I've been at an emotional low lately (thanks to jacked up hormones!)
This week, after doing some research, I realized that I had to get serious about this health problem. I couldn't just blow it off like it was no big deal, like some people have done. I realized that I needed to make some pretty big life changes for the sake of my health. I have a condition, that if not treated properly, could turn into bigger problems.
I started a 5:30 a.m. boot camp this week. Thanks to Stacia and Natalie for their encouragement, prayers and support! I have also cut down to one Dr Pepper a day. Those who know me, know that this is HUGE for me....(my body is so sore from the workouts and my head is pounding from lack of caffeine...)
I am humbly asking you to pray for me. I am really struggling in this desert place that I am in. I think I have let my pride keep me from being completely honest about just how hard this is for me.
Today at church we started a series on the life of King David. David was not a perfect man, but he exemplified major patience and trust in God's plan for his life. God promised David he would be king, but it took 25 years for David to inherit that promise. My Bible commentary says "through daily troubles David's faith grew and he discovered his God-given strengths...David had no idea how his faithfulness in daily living would play into God's bigger plan....and neither do we."
In our deserts, what would happen if instead of taking matters into our own hands, trying to do things in our own strength, we had patience and trust in God the way David did???
"But David (Jennifer) found strength in the Lord his (her) God." 1st Samuel 30:6
"As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him...It is God who arms me with strength and makes the way perfect." 2nd Samuel 22: 31,33
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Wear Our Shirt and Show Your Support for "Our Missing Linck" and Adoption
I am SO excited! Thanks to some GREAT friends, we have created a "Bringing Home the Missing Linck" T-shirt. We are placing a small order of shirts that will be done in time for our golf tournament on October 23rd. We will then place an even bigger order (I hope!) at the end of October.... We will start taking pre-orders NOW!
The shirts will be $20. $15 of that will go directly to our adoption fund! If you would like us to mail you a shirt, please add $5 to cover shipping (we would be happy to mail them to you!) You can pay for the shirt through PayPal here on the blog or you can mail John and I a check. Just leave me a comment or e-mail me at jmishon@gmail.com and I will give you our address.
I pray that these shirts will help to spread the word about adoption and spark many conversations about all that God is doing through this adoption journey that John and I are on. May God receive all the Glory!
I also think it would be super fun if people who buy the shirts would take a picture of themselves wearing the shirt so that we can post them on the blog....AND so we can include them in our adoption scrapbook. That way one day our "Missing Linck" will be able to see all the people who played a role in uniting them with their forever family.....SO... if you order a shirt, make sure you send a photo of yourself wearing it!
AND NOW.....this is what the shirt will look like.....
The shirts will be $20. $15 of that will go directly to our adoption fund! If you would like us to mail you a shirt, please add $5 to cover shipping (we would be happy to mail them to you!) You can pay for the shirt through PayPal here on the blog or you can mail John and I a check. Just leave me a comment or e-mail me at jmishon@gmail.com and I will give you our address.
I pray that these shirts will help to spread the word about adoption and spark many conversations about all that God is doing through this adoption journey that John and I are on. May God receive all the Glory!
I also think it would be super fun if people who buy the shirts would take a picture of themselves wearing the shirt so that we can post them on the blog....AND so we can include them in our adoption scrapbook. That way one day our "Missing Linck" will be able to see all the people who played a role in uniting them with their forever family.....SO... if you order a shirt, make sure you send a photo of yourself wearing it!
AND NOW.....this is what the shirt will look like.....
Sunday, October 3, 2010
One Adoptive Family Helping Another: Sophia's Birthday Gift to Our Missing Linck!
One of the really cool things about this adoption journey so far, is that John and I have had the chance to meet some wonderful couples and the kiddos they have adopted from Ethiopia. The other totally cool thing is that these families sort of become your extended "adoption" family. They know what you are going through, will pray for you, encourage you and they just travel this adoption road with you.
Yesterday our friends Katie and Michael (who adopted a sweet little girl from Ethiopia earlier this year) told us they wanted to have a fundraiser for our adoption.....please read the letter that Katie sent to her friends and family. We are so blessed and humbled that they want to help us bring home our Missing Linck! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Morris Family! And a BIG Happy Birthday to Miss. Sophia!!
Friends and family,
Our little Sophia is growing up so quickly! She will be one on October 12. We are celebrating in a BIG way and we want YOU to be a part of it!!!
We believe God calls Christians to care for orphans. Adoption is one way He uses us to care for His children. I LOVE reading adoption stories and especially love seeing how God provides the funding for adoptions. He provided for our adoption of Sophia in so many amazing ways. We never could have paid for her adoption on our own. So many of our family and friends gave their hard earned money to help bring her home and we are so thankful. You have no idea!
We know that it wasn’t too long ago that many of you helped with our adoption, but we are asking for you to give a little of your money to help bring another Ethiopian baby home to his or her forever family.
You see, we have some friends who are adopting from Ethiopia and we want to help them out. They are in the fundraising stage and are hoping to turn their application in on October 25, their 2nd wedding anniversary. They want to have all of the money for the fees raised ($18,000) before they submit the application. God has already provided in HUGE ways for them and it has been a blessing to watch.
So, back to Sophia’s birthday CELEBRATION!!!!! We are asking all of our friends, family, blogland buddies, total strangers, etc. to donate to the Linck’s adoption fund in Sophia’s name. If you know Sophia and she has brought joy to your life, would you please consider giving $5 or more, so Baby Linck can come home? If you don’t know her, but know how precious children are, would you donate money, as well?
For every $5 you donate, we will enter your name into a drawing for a prize. We will have a drawing when $100 has been donated and then again at $200, $300, etc. The more you donate the bigger your chance is to win.
The first prize is a brand new copy of “The Hole in Our Gospel”, by Richard Stearns.
Would you like an additional chance to win? If you donate money AND do a blog or facebook post about this, then your name will be entered an additional time. Make sure you comment on my blog and let me know you posted about it.
To donate, please go here: http://journeyfromethiopia.chipin.com/lincks-adoption-fund. You are also welcome to write a check or pay with cash, if you will be seeing one of us in the near future.
“‘Then the righteous will answer him, Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:37-40)
For more information on John and Jennifer Linck, please visit their blog http://ourmissinglinck.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much for reading this long message and for your consideration in helping John and Jennifer bring home their "Missing Linck". I am so excited to see how God will use Sophia's life to help bring an orphan home to their forever family!
Thanks, Katie!
To make a donation for Sophia's Birthday, go here
Yesterday our friends Katie and Michael (who adopted a sweet little girl from Ethiopia earlier this year) told us they wanted to have a fundraiser for our adoption.....please read the letter that Katie sent to her friends and family. We are so blessed and humbled that they want to help us bring home our Missing Linck! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Morris Family! And a BIG Happy Birthday to Miss. Sophia!!
Friends and family,
Our little Sophia is growing up so quickly! She will be one on October 12. We are celebrating in a BIG way and we want YOU to be a part of it!!!
We believe God calls Christians to care for orphans. Adoption is one way He uses us to care for His children. I LOVE reading adoption stories and especially love seeing how God provides the funding for adoptions. He provided for our adoption of Sophia in so many amazing ways. We never could have paid for her adoption on our own. So many of our family and friends gave their hard earned money to help bring her home and we are so thankful. You have no idea!
We know that it wasn’t too long ago that many of you helped with our adoption, but we are asking for you to give a little of your money to help bring another Ethiopian baby home to his or her forever family.
You see, we have some friends who are adopting from Ethiopia and we want to help them out. They are in the fundraising stage and are hoping to turn their application in on October 25, their 2nd wedding anniversary. They want to have all of the money for the fees raised ($18,000) before they submit the application. God has already provided in HUGE ways for them and it has been a blessing to watch.
So, back to Sophia’s birthday CELEBRATION!!!!! We are asking all of our friends, family, blogland buddies, total strangers, etc. to donate to the Linck’s adoption fund in Sophia’s name. If you know Sophia and she has brought joy to your life, would you please consider giving $5 or more, so Baby Linck can come home? If you don’t know her, but know how precious children are, would you donate money, as well?
For every $5 you donate, we will enter your name into a drawing for a prize. We will have a drawing when $100 has been donated and then again at $200, $300, etc. The more you donate the bigger your chance is to win.
The first prize is a brand new copy of “The Hole in Our Gospel”, by Richard Stearns.
Would you like an additional chance to win? If you donate money AND do a blog or facebook post about this, then your name will be entered an additional time. Make sure you comment on my blog and let me know you posted about it.
To donate, please go here: http://journeyfromethiopia.chipin.com/lincks-adoption-fund. You are also welcome to write a check or pay with cash, if you will be seeing one of us in the near future.
“‘Then the righteous will answer him, Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:37-40)
For more information on John and Jennifer Linck, please visit their blog http://ourmissinglinck.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much for reading this long message and for your consideration in helping John and Jennifer bring home their "Missing Linck". I am so excited to see how God will use Sophia's life to help bring an orphan home to their forever family!
Thanks, Katie!
To make a donation for Sophia's Birthday, go here
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