Becoming parents and raising children is challenging. It requires patience, compassion, flexibility, discipline, and all the fruits of the Spirit! Growing a family through adoption brings a unique set of challenges that the average family does not have to deal with, leading to many questions. As Merritt and I took steps toward adoption, we sought the counsel and wisdom of many who had gone before us and we will continue to go to them as we raise our twins.
Have you ever met people who became a family, in part because of how other people did their holiday shopping? Take a look at our picture above, because that is our story.
My husband, Ryan, and I began our adoption journey in early 2020. After researching and praying through avenues to grow our family, we felt an overwhelming peace about pursuing private infant adoption through Deaconess Pregnancy and Adoption. There was just one big glaring issue: finances!
Do you have something that just makes your heart happy? While we love preparing and
enjoying delicious food, a thoughtfully set table makes our hearts skip a beat. Some might think
it’s not their gifting or that they don’t have the resources to set a lovely table, but sometimes
simplicity and using what you already have is the way to go.
My guess is that, like me, you have some GOLD friends. You know, the ones who have known you a very long time, who have seen your good days, your bad days… and love you anyway! Oh, you are BLESSED by God if you have any deep friendships like that! When I was younger, I learned a little tune that went, “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other’s gold.”
Vulnerability. Do you shudder when you hear the word? Does your stomach drop like you’re on some terrible roller coaster? Vulnerability researcher, Brene’ Brown, defines vulnerability as: uncertainty, risk, emotional exposure. Nobody likes emotional exposure when the outcome is uncertain. But there is no intimacy without vulnerability.
I like to believe I’m ready and willing to be vulnerable (the good, honest kind!), but truthfully, I’m more willing to be vulnerable with information-sharing than emotion-showing. So, imagine my surprise when simply a sincere, earnest look of compassion made me burst into tears while I was sharing a life update! I was discussing a challenging situation with my Table Group in my typical matter-of-fact fashion, and then BOOM! I glanced at one of the women and she was listening to me so intently, showing such care on her face that the emotions flowed out of me. That was one of the most meaningful moments I had while co-hosting a Table Group. In turn, I wanted to serve our Table Group through intentionally leading our Table Questions discussion and taking part in someone else’s meaningful moment. My hope is to encourage you to consider co-hosting this year!!
