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May 3, 2011

Post 5 – The Best Years of My Life {The story continues…}

I’ll go ahead and tell you–this post has to come in 2 parts (so don’t be mad when it ends abruptly). Had to do 2 parts because 1…it is THAT sweet of a year and 2…because Amy Levy is my ‘soul tender’ and we meet on Monday night to tend to one another’s souls {which includes Starbucks, decaf, some times cupcakes, vulnerable hearts, lots of listening, encouraging and TONS of laughing}. So…this momma will only make it through Part 1.

Let me also go ahead and say–this story is for His glory not mine–trust me it is NOT by my strength my days get done but by His. These 5 Posts are the stories of 5 beautiful years that I just have to say are my favorite if I had to say which years changed me most…all of which were hard–but ones where ultimately He shined through and was glorified. And this post shines the most light if you read the others first: Post 1, Post 2, Post 3 and Post 4. Trust me:)

While some of you might guess this Post 5 “best year” begins when we were called to adoption…or when we started the process…or when we got our sweet boy’s referral call or the moment we passed court and he was officially ours—these things were some of the wonderful things that LEAD up to the year I want to share tonight. YES, those were all such incredible moments for our family–they were hard, joyful, stretching and beautiful–but the next best year of our lives began the moment our sweet boy was placed in my arms…

I had dreamed of having my boy in my arms for such a long, long time–longer than any of my pregnancies…I had cried at night when I knew he wasn’t well but I couldn’t do A THING to help him or kiss his booboos…I LONGED to hold him…and when he finally in my embrace…truthfully–while it was AMAZING, it didn’t go quite as planned. He was scared. I was different. And it would take time to get to know us as mommy and daddy…BUT oh…the year had begun…

And this…for me–was not only the beginning of the most amazing year BUT it was also a year of another beginning…of seeing every thing–EVERY THING–EVERY THING differently. Suddenly, I had to think of “what might have happened” the first year in my sweet boy’s world–and we had to parent a bit differently. Every cry–he suddenly had someone there for…and once we were there–he was NOT about to let us out of his sight. It was during these days rocking him that I even began to REALLY see the WORLD differently. I would think about what other families go through…what other children go through…what makes us who we are–and dispite all that–He can heal all things.

I had gone into adoption with years ahead of us being a part of an orphan care ministry. I was sure our kids in Africa without moms and dads were going to be okay–because…well, they were in their “culture”…so heck, they might even be better off than a child I adopt into a transracial situation…right? And while I brought home a very happy baby–as we started to connect he got a bit fussy, and I soon saw that REALLY he had opinions now…he now was being given a VOICE…and healing was taking place. And all of the sudden–I started to see things so much differently. Sure–culture is IMPORTANT. Absolutely–I would love if every little one could stay with their first family. But in a broken world–healing needs to happen…and I also am seeing how God uses FAMIY to heal hearts of children who don’t have one. My heart very quickly changed–as there are some things culture or orphanages or sponsored boarding schools just can’t give you…

While I would rock my sweet boy and sing to him, I’d think of all of the children in the world that will never know a lullaby. To be soothed by a voice you know…and that same voice is always there—to tuck you in, encourage you, love you and pray with you. When I saw aggresive and distant behavior change into gentle pats and little kisses…my heart melted–not just selfishly for ME–oh to be loved by this child…but FOR HIM to…to see his heart coming home…he was learning not only how to love BUT HOW TO BE LOVED…HOW TO ACCEPT LOVE. (We live in a world where thousands upon thousands will NEVER know this simple yet powerful and life-changing thing!) There were MONTHS he didn’t want mommy so much–but how can you blame a kiddo who every caregiver he has known were women and they never stayed for the long haul–so why connect to another? Night after night…to rock a little love who often pushes you away and to say over and over, “Momma isn’t going any where…she is always here–I’m here to stay.” And then–to have to THINK BACK because those are things of the past…as he is home heart and soul now.

This part may sound dreamy–and I’ll say–some of it is because God is so good like that–but I must also say, it was NOT easy. In between the lullabies–please remember to slide in physical therapies, doctor appointments, ER visits, surgeries, almost 10 months of only making it 10 minutes in church with the other 50 minutes bouncing in the hallway (not a fan of the nursery and not about to let momma walk away), parasites, parasites shared with siblings, more doctor visits, tantrums, etc, etc, etc…you get the picture. And then…3 precious other children–looking up at you…waiting for their turn.

But in the quiet of the night–as I rock and sing to my four babies, I now can’t help but see millions of little faces…that deserve THIS. And all I can think to sing in these moments where I am so distracted–is Amazing Grace. I think of how much the Lord loves me. How much He loves YOU. How much He loves EACH and EVERY ONE of these children. I think about how my life is NOT ABOUT ME. IT’S NOT ABOUT ME. IT’S NOT ABOUT ME!!!!!! It’s not about what “I deserve”…but rather…what THEY DESERVE.

My life CAN NOT be about ME. It just can’t. Trust me, there are times I want it to be about me–but the truth of the matter is…I gave my heart to Jesus when I turned 18, and I want nothing more than to say YES to Him every time He asks me to follow Him. THAT IS WHAT I BELIEVE I WAS MADE FOR. If it has value in the eternal kingdom–then that is the only thing I can afford to make my life about. And I really believe these children have eternal value–and that He deeply, deeply, DEEPLY loves them. I also believe that He deeply, deeply, DEEPLY wants orphans to have families…and that He is going to call many of us who are able to say, “My life isn’t about me–how can You use me Lord–to love your children…where ever, when ever, how ever…my life–it’s all yours.”

You see, my boy–he changed me. I mean, I totally thought I understood this depth when I loved on orphans in China, Africa and downtown Atlanta–but something powerful happens when the orphan WORD is taken away and made YOUR CHILD instead. Something within you wants to scream AS YOU WATCH THEM HEAL, “EVERY CHILD DESERVES THIS!!!” but all the while knowing…in this life time–it will never happen.

In that process, you grow–you realize YOU can’t save the world–but you can do what He calls you to. While you watch His faithfulness in the transition–you see how HE CAN BE TRUSTED, how His plans may be hard BUT THEY ARE GOOD AND PERFECT and you surrender yourself more deeply to your Heavenly Father…asking for Him to show you His way.

Months passed and we continued to mold as our family adjusted and molded together. December soon came–the fun of Isaac’s first Christmas and all the joy that comes with celebrating one of the most sacred and sweet holidays. I will NEVER forget the moment I felt God speaking to my heart telling us He had something for us to follow Him on–it was just after Christmas when all is calm…just when things began to feel more peaceful. (Really Lord?! I was just getting the hang of this! You have something else for us?! Isn’t this how the Lord often chooses to work! SO WE CAN’T GET THE GLORY FOR IT–BUT ONLY HIM!!!) I was taking a shower when I felt the Lord speak to my heart. (I know…the SHOWER you are thinking? But consider my crazy family, and it’s some times the ONLY quiet this momma gets!) I felt Him speak clearly to my heart. Although it wasn’t audible–it was so clear to me–that I even spoke back and I was caught off guard that I spoke back so quickly. Okay some of you officially think I’m a nut–but I know when He speaks to me–and I was certain we must follow…because through seeing His faithfulness I just love saying YES.

While at the moment I was unsure of the how, when and where–I know my Savior’s voice–and I was certain He was beginning to call us. And so in the midst of one of THE BEST years of my life–while learning to help a sweet child adjust and simply enjoying the moments with our new one–we were certain He was asking us to do something. While we looked at our lives and saw ENOUGH craziness–I knew that He had more for us concerning His will for our lives and for our family. I’ve often heard people say, “God will never give you more than you can bear.” But check this ditty out–that isn’t a Bible verse. If I only live with what I think I can bear–then how do I live knowing my desperate need of my God? If we live without needing God–then we aren’t really living at all–we are just existing. But if I ask for His will instead of mine–then I can be sure I’ll probably have more than I can bear–but He will bear it for me–AND HE WILL GET THE GLORY!!! And it will be a story more beautiful than the one that I could have written myself. Amen?!

(…Part 2 of Post 5—continued tomorrow. It’s midnight here–so I have to call it a night! I’ll finish this one tomorrow night–and I’m SO EXCITED to share the rest…the sweet place where the Lord is leading us!!!)

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Elle J - May 3, 2011 - 1:18 am

Oooooh, Andrea!!! Way to leave me hanging … but you know I will be back tomorrow/whenever you post Part 2 of Post 5. =) xoxo

Christy - May 3, 2011 - 5:55 am

First Mitzi’s story, and now yours – you girls are changing a culture’s way of thinking and I am blessed to know you even from afar!

Kandra - May 3, 2011 - 7:59 am

Can’t wait for the second 1/2!! 😉 People misquote that bible verse all the time… 1 Corinthians 10:13…love what you said about your “desperate need of God.” Beautifully said.

Kim - May 3, 2011 - 9:54 am

I can’t wait to hear more!!

Kim - May 3, 2011 - 11:36 am

Tomorrow can’t come soon enough. I know I’ve said it before … but I feel certain you gotta best seller in the making! Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

Kristin - May 3, 2011 - 11:47 am

Thank you for your post today. I’ve been home 4 weeks with our little guy from Ethiopia and today you helped me to realize that what we are experiencing with him is healing. THe first 2 weeks were great! Then the next two followed with hospital stays and many doctors appts. Thank you for reminding me that healing, not just physical but emotional healing is a process…one that could take years. God is so good! Our lives are so full of the richness He so wanted us to experience. Can’t wait to see where He’s leading you next.

Lisa - May 3, 2011 - 1:56 pm

Andrea what a cliff hanger!!!! I can’t wait to see where God is leading you and to see the rewards of your obedience!

Kelly - May 3, 2011 - 2:28 pm

Oh my soul, tears flowing…my favorite part…”something powerful happens when the word orphan is taken away and made your child instead…” I pray too that many many more orphans will be called sons and daughters instead! Its wonderful to watch your journey and it helps encourage me in mine and the new things that God is calling us to do… I feel the same way…like really Lord? Now? 🙂 But you’ve got it right…it points us back to our need for Christ in what He calls us to do and Him receiving the GLORY!

Dawn - May 3, 2011 - 3:54 pm

He he he….that is if I can squeeze a shower in the day for myself? just kidding…kind of.

LOVE hearing God’s crazy for you!!!! 🙂 You know when you are soo very desperate….that you HAVE to HAVE HIM!!!! That is where we should be. Not where I want to be – well because I have lots of control issues, but God has a funny sense of humor on that too 🙂

Alison - May 3, 2011 - 5:51 pm

AMEN, girl!!! If we could handle everything on our own, then we would walk through life not realizing our need for Him. So glad that He puts us in places where we have to totally DEPEND on Him! It’s truly the sweetest place to be! Can’t wait to read the rest of the story…

Tiffany - May 3, 2011 - 10:38 pm

Oh no…I have to wait until tomorrow for the rest…so not fair! 🙂 Wonderful post…so true…being called, being stretched, being completely changed…love your heart – always listening for God’s voice.

Elizabeth Smith - May 3, 2011 - 10:57 pm

…hoping what I think is what is coming….
love you andrea!

Post 5 – PART 2 – The Best Years of My Life {The story continues…} » Babe of my Heart - May 3, 2011 - 11:43 pm

[…] Post 5 – The Best Years of My Life {The story continues…} […]

Mama Mimi - May 4, 2011 - 2:29 am

“If I only live with what I think I can bear – then how can I live knowing my desperate need of God?” –> SO POWERFUL FRIEND!!!!

May 2, 2011

Buds, Bikes and BFs:)

BUDS…

Last week we had a fun little playdate with some of our buds. We had a little picnic with the Owens Family and I just love how our kids all have little friends when we hang with their family…

Here is everyone minus one of the Owens crew…

Shelly and I were chatting and we looked on the back porch to see that her littlest one had climbed in a chair to be closer to her sidekick. They were out there just chatting (babytalking!) away and of course I had to grab a picture of the sweetness!

SERIOUSLY…are they NOT the cutest things?!

BIKES…

Today marked our annual bike race!!! Every year, the kiddos enter in our quaint little town’s bike race. And folks–they take this pretty seriously. P-man was full speed ahead!

Not sure what happened to Loo-bear…but she is NOT a fan of the spotlight or crowds–so she all of the sudden forgot how to ride her bike. BUT no fear–because Daddy-O was near! And Frankie baby opted for a much easier mode of transportation…

And what was ITY doing you ask? Well–he was entertaining the crowd like this momma has NEVER seen!!! This boy is usually shy and timid in crowds!!! We went to the finish line complete with stages, LOUD DJ announcers and music, radio stations blaring songs, and people EVERY WHERE. I thought for sure he’d want me to hold him close like most crowded, new situations. BUT NOPE. He would walk in front of the crowd and then start shaking his little bottom to the music, waving to people and batting those big eye lashes. I was literally stopped over and over with folks commenting on his little personality. SUCH A MESS!

When he would see a new person walking his way…he would do THIS…

AND then he’d strut his stuff!

SO…either the boy is over his crowd-phobia or he just digs DJs and bike races. You guys would have CRACKED up! When the music would play, he’d boogie and throw his hands on the sidewalk with his bottom in the air. NOT sure who showed him that move–but it was pretty funny stuff!!!

And finally BFs…

I met my bestfriend when I was in the 7th grade and tonight us girlies got together to celebrate her 3rd baby which is due mid-June…and I’m SOOOOO excited to have another girl in our lives!!! So many of us go way back–and I’m so thankful for all of the memories we share together! There’s just something about dear girlfriends that stick with you through the ups and downs of life…that celebrate moments with you…and are there for you no matter what…

And last but not least—I was out in our flower garden with Loo-bear creating a bouque for her room–and I couldn’t help but smile remembering that I planted this flower bed to calm my nerves while we waited for a referral of our son. What a beautiful reminder of God’s hand on our lives…

As we picked the flowers–Loo-bear was so distracted by the thorns. Have you ever wondered why roses have thorns? Why something so beautiful often begins with hurt? The scientific answer is that God gave roses the most stong scent of most any plant or flower. They were created with a scent to attract insects, but they also attract herbivores. The thorns actually PROTECT the flower from herbivores so they can thrive and stay out of harms way.

Consider the roses in your life—the things that ended up TRULY making your life what it is…you know–the things in your life that make you hold your breath with thanksgiving. Many times…these things started with thorns. There was hurt. It didn’t make sense. But without those things–the flower may have never bloomed…or fully bloomed into what God intended it to be. I think it’s pretty cool that God led me to plant a rose garden of all things while I waited not so patiently for my son. There were many tears…and even some times doubt if this was really God’s plan for our life.

But–OH how every thorn was worth it.

Smelling the fragrance of roses will now remind me of God’s perfect will. And they also remind me that if we stay close to Christ and His calling on our lives–then our lives will be the aroma of Christ to the world. And to God. I love this verse in 2 Corinthians 2:15 “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing.” While we live in fallen, dark world–He is the light of the world–and as we cling to Him our lives will be a breath of fresh air to those who are sisters and brothers in Christ…and who He is calling to Himself through the Holy Spirit.

May you each have a blessed week. Finally…it’s time for Post 5!!! It’s coming tomorrow:)

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Kim - May 2, 2011 - 5:19 am

“B”eautiful post. Love those shots of ITY and all of his personality shining thru. And the reminder about protective “thorns” in our lives.
Love & Blessings from Hong Kong,
Kim

Christy - May 2, 2011 - 6:22 am

So beautiful – your words and those flowers! Is Laney riding her bike with no training wheels? WOW! And can’t wait for post five! 🙂

Meredith - May 2, 2011 - 11:14 am

What a sweet post! I needed this today, because I am really feeling the thorns of waiting on our little one and the roses seem so far away.

Alison - May 2, 2011 - 2:57 pm

Beautiful roses! And LOVE all the cute pics of the kids! Looks like it was a great weekend! 🙂

Debb - May 2, 2011 - 7:17 pm

Oh, how this post speaks to me today. Amidst the thorns of our own sweet adoption, I look forward to the roses. It feels as though every time we should be close to a referral, the wait gets extended. Ugh. I love how you remind me that many beautiful things begin with hurtful things. Trusting that God’s timing is perfect……and that He is building us a fragrant rose garden in life as we wait! Blessings, girl…….

April 30, 2011

Waiting for another friend to come home…

We had a crazy fun weekend…full of so much action that nothing was caught on camera…EXCEPT some very important things that just had to be snapped in some fashion on my iPhone.

Isaac insisted on going over to Mrs.Kimberly’s house to the Chalk family adoption yard sale…he said he needed to do anything and everything to bring his little buddy/buddies home from Ethiopia (they are on both the boy and sibling list)

Here’s ITY with Mrs.Kimberly…they have been waiting officially on the list since January–but Isaac here…he’s known about their adoption for some time and he has been waiting awhile. I can’t WAIT for their airport homecoming…move out of the way folks–cause Isaac is going to knock some folk over to give his boy/s a high five!

Here the kids are making their final purchases…

Isaac got a car. Laney got a doll that floats in the tub…and momma got something for the doll house. I’ve almost done with what I started…just a few finishing touches and then I’ll share. Let’s just say that this doll bed for 25 cents was transformed into a doll bed fit for a princess. Here is a “before” picture…the “after” to come tomorrow when I have recovered from my spray paint high;).

I’ll end saying this. Kids are so easy to please! At least mine are. I mean–I have decided we need to be yard sale people. Take your kids to Target and they leave whining because momma wouldn’t buy them some new fancy toy. BUT take ’em to a yard sale–and they get to take their money and buy just about anything out there. Okay, not sure that is really teaching them anything–but it sure is nice to leave with happy kids:).

And speaking of simplicity–they play in tents in the backyard for HOURS. I realized I was missing some screens. I asked P-man about this, and he informed me, “MOM, EVERY teepee needs a screen.” SO, in case you didn’t know…this is the NEW thing in teepees;)

Last but not least–from the mouths of babes…

We pulled up to P-mans baseball game on Saturday–and it was just me, Loo-bear and ITY as P-man and Frankie baby had ridden with Rich. We parked and I just had a moment sitting there for a second (you know…before stepping out into ball field craziness and chasing baby fun). I heard her sweet little voice in the back of the van…

Mama, you know we are just like caterpillars don’t you?

We are mama. Us. People. God made caterpillars and people alike.

(Oh bless her heart–I thought.) You think so? How in the world do you think we are like caterpillars?

Just like the caterpillar Mama, we also become a new creation. You know–with God. We are changed like caterpillars–a new creation.

Yes, sweet baby girl. You are right. Thank you for reminding me. We, indeed, are just like caterpillars. When we ask Christ to be the Lord of our life–the old is put away and we are bran new. To fly–and be the beautiful creatures He made us to be.

Galations 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”

2 Corinthians 5:15-17 “And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”

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Kim - May 1, 2011 - 7:43 am

Love it! Cannot wait to see ITY high fivin is friend at the homecoming. Gotta get some of those tee pees when we return to the States. And you know how I feel about butterflies. God has used them in so many ways in my life to reveal Himself. Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

Catherine Besk - May 1, 2011 - 9:51 am

Thanks for the beautiful reminder Laney!

Dawn - May 1, 2011 - 7:55 pm

Your kids are cute & smart 🙂 BONUS DEAL!!! Loved the wonderful lesson from babes!!! My kids teach me soo very very much!

April 29, 2011

Putting on our Camo…

What is a girl to do when it’s camouflage day…and they say “no pink camo”…green only. I mean…some times a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do! SOOO…Loo-bear and I got out the sewing machine and whipped out a little ditty…

How fun is that? And I wish I could take the design credit–but momma got THIS book for Christmas from Nana and me likey the EASY patterns and absolutely fun designs…You can buy one HERE on Amazon.

They sang “I’m in the Lord’s army” among other songs in the school musical, and I’ll have to share some of that action when I download the video. LOVE having these two just 14 months apart!

SOOOO…that was Tuesday night! (Oh by the way–if you buy the book we did add the additional sash to the skirt just for a little added somethin’:). So easy to make…and ALL the kids helped–even Frankie baby.

THEN last night—tornados came through the South–quite close to us but with most of the devestation taking place in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. Being from Alabama and having so many friends and family in the Tuscaloosa and Birmingham area–I’ve seen pictures ALL day of the devestation of so many. I have heard heartbreaking stories of loss…of not only homes but also loved ones. PLEASE keep these families in your prayers as they put their lives back together.

David Platt’s church in Birmingham is busy organizing a relief effort. You can join the efforts of Church of Brook Hills by going to learn more how to give or go. We have DEAR friends on staff with Navigators in Tuscaloosa. They were out of town, and they are safe–and I know in the weeks ahead they will be sharing with us opportunities to help those around them.

One thing times like these remind me of is that NEEDS ARE EVERYWHERE. And I love what Bob Goff says in one of his recent posts on getting engaged. “One of the ways that I make things matter to me is to move from merely learning about something to finding a way to engage it on my own terms. For example, if someone asks what I think about capital punishment, instead of reciting the party line and parroting someone else’s thoughts, I think of a teenager named Kevin in a prison accused of a capital crime. If the topic is same sex attraction, I think of a dear friend who is gay. Now, instead of talking about an issue, I’m talking about a person; someone who matters to me. I think that Jesus wired us that way so that we’d remember. And it’s not about just being politically correct, it’s about being just plain correct. We need to make our faith; our love story; our very own.”

In order to get ENGAGED not only in conversation…but ENGAGED in serving–we must make it our own and bring it home in our hearts. I think about the tornado in Alabama where so many friends and family live. My city–for some reason–was not touched by the tornado. Now, I can move on my merry way–OR I can ENGAGE by bringing it home. By thinking of dear friends and family and reaching out to anyone I know who knows specific areas of need…and ENGAGE because now it’s personal. AND…I must say for the record–it’s NOT ABOUT MAKING IT ABOUT US–BUT ABOUT GOING THERE WITH OTHERS AND DOING LIFE TOGETHER.

I got a comment on my blog earlier today regarding my earlier Zambia post. It came from a writer in California who does not KNOW me–who is not really engaged in my life. And by incredible technology commenters IP addresses are embedded in every comment you make on a blog–I can see he has only visited my blog ONCE–yet he felt compelled to make a pretty hurtful comment about our work in Zambia. A good friend, reminded me not to throw my pearls to the pigs–and this was MUCH needed Biblical advice to hear. We must stay our course to what we know in our hearts the Lord has called us to and not let others tear us down or discourage us while we follow Him.

BUT…for this instance, I dig what Bob Goff wrote in his post “How to Pick a Fight” post. (An incredible post about fighting for what God calls you to fight for–no matter what.) Now, I’m not going to pick a fight–because if YOU are a REGULAR reader and/or friend–you know that’s not me. BUT…I WILL stand up for orphans and widows–and no matter where they are…they are God’s children…and they DESERVE TO BE FOUGHT FOR!!!

I couldn’t say it better myself, so I’ll let Goff say it for me…”It’s easier to pick an opinion than it is to pick a fight. It’s also easier to pick an organization or a jersey and identify with that fight than it is to actually pick your own; commit to it; call it out and take a swing. Picking a fight isn’t neat either. It’s messy. It’s time consuming. It’s painful. It’s costly. Stated differently, it’s what many of us should be all about as followers of Jesus.”

The comment left said that I post what I post for my own sake. To bring glory to me–and that I make him sick that I go to Africa when there are thousands of kids here who need help.

YES–there are thousands of children here who also need help–and I am, ever so thankful for my precious friends who just picked up and moved to inner city Atlanta to not only SERVE but to also LIVE. Families like the Stanley family who we have the joy of doing life locally with who serve with Vision Atlanta. Or families in our fellowship group that have just picked up their families to move downtown themselves. I’m thankful to be a part of a church wtih a pastor allowing us to start a foster care ministry and challenge others to serve with us…the two years we have spent trying to start a foster care ministry in our local church. We each have different callings–and we must follow where the Lord leads us! This is NOT about us–and to tell you the truth…it’s not really about them either…but about HIM and bringing glory to Him by following HIM where ever He leads our family in ministry–whether it’s around the corner or around the world (and if it WERE about me–I can promise I wouldn’t go around the world to do ministry and leave my children to do it…but *I* don’t get to choose where *I* am called…and I’m so thankful it is NOT about me.)

For us–the Lord has led us to Zambia to serve. I write about it on my blog–not to receive the glory…because honestly I don’t do much these days other than chase my 4 babies and it’s TIME for me to return to where I believe the Lord called us to serve 4 years ago. I write about it–because this IS my life–and its personal–and through my writing many of my precious friends have learned about Wiphan and it’s become personal to them too. (It’s also my blog–so I guess if it’s about my life–I can write about my life…and I apologize to readers like “JOHN” who disapprove of where, how and who we serve…but really–it’s not ME he should be upset with–but I guess God…since it was His calling on our lives…we just go follow.) And just as children down town deserve to be loved and fought for–children in EVERY country deserve to be loved and fought for. AND this is one fight I will always pick.

Why did we adopt from Ethiopia? Because our son was there–God knew it…and He put Ethiopia on our hearts. Why do we serve in Zambia? Because there are 450 children there–that God loves and He knew our friends and family had gifts that He gave us to be used their for HIS glory. I truly believe the Lord has given each of us different gifts and different desires to be used for HIS glory–and those gifts and desires that align with His Word are part of the story He wrote just for us to live out.

Foster care or adoption. Domestic or international. Opening your home to the homeless or 10 little giggling girls that need to be loved on. Whatever He calls us to–we must follow with gusto and let the Lord be our strength. We should encourage other believers in our different callings–and be very careful not to be unkind to the calling GOD HAS GIVEN them. (When hurtful things are said–we can be pretty sure it’s not from a brother or sister in Christ–and once again see the reality how we do live in a hurting world.) We should expect hardship–and hurtful things to be said as we follow. I guess I’m just fortunate to not have hard things said so often–which tells me I probably need to listen a bit more and maybe more radically follow. That also being said, I just want to thank those of you who have been on this journey of life with us–and always leave words of kindness and encouragement. I welcome the other comments too…but just don’t be alarmed if I fight for things back that I feel are worth fighting for;).

Hope ya’ll have a great night…I’m down for the count in more ways than one tonight;)

Andrea

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Amy @ Filled with Praise - April 29, 2011 - 10:08 am

Adorable!

Love your thoughts. God knows your heart. Don’t let someone else bring you down.
Love ya,
Amy

kristi johnson - April 29, 2011 - 11:01 am

ya gotta ignore the CRAZIES of the world 🙂 They are satan in disguise…and sadly, they dont’ even know it half of the time!! stay strong my friend!!! kj

Leah - April 29, 2011 - 11:36 am

Having a blog and writing about our lives always open us up to opinions and criticisms. I personally never feel the need to address them. Especially when it’s obvious that the person came by 1 time. . . and probably with the intent on being hurtful.

You and God knows what’s in your heart. . . and that is what is important. I’ve had people say, “but there is so much need here.” And what I say is this. . . “Try to fill that need.” Because the people I hear it from are people doing nothing. I felt called to Ethiopia, and I’ll never regret that decision. It doesn’t mean I don’t see the need here. I see the need EVERYWHERE, and I’m doing what I personally can.

Okay, this got long. . . You know who you are, and you know who you want to get all the glory. . . and that is what’s important. 🙂

Sandi - April 29, 2011 - 12:15 pm

OK so THIS is why the Lord laid Isaiah 50-58 on my heart late last night after a much needed movie night with the girls! Sometimes sin & guilt in people’s hearts causes them to judge but God will work on others through your example as long as you stay focused on what is right. God is convicting that gentleman’s heart about something & it hurts so he lashed out. It’s okay & it is meant to be for him to work through his own pain to “understanding”. I will be praying for you both that God will fill him with peace & that you will remember that GOD USES YOU AS A LIGHT so darkness will only be FLEETING when it touches you. I have a very close family member who doesn’t understand why I feel the need to “help LOCAL families who have NOTHING” & boy she just doesn’t understand why Africa, Holeta, orphans & Wiphan are important to me. “Giving to others” to her is “TAKING from my own KIDS”. I call it “PASSING THE BLESSINGS ON” yet she calls it “a SIN to deprive my children”(as she drips in diamonds). My kids have a very, very nice life. Yet the devil knows that her judgement hurts so he makes it happen often, but that’s what being a “stranger to this world” is all about. That means you are doing something right girl! Fabulous job!!!!!
Isaiah 51:7-58 Do not fear the reproach of men or be terrified because of their insults…I HAVE PUT MY WORDS IN YOUR MOUTH and covered you with the shadow of my hand…CLOTHE YOURSELF WITH STRENGTH…MY UNFAILING LOVE FOR YOU WILL NOT BE SHAKEN NOR MY COVENANT OF PEACE BE REMOVED…All your sons will be taught by the Lord and great will be your children’s peace…you will refute every tongue that accuses you…Let HIM turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon…do away with malicious talk, and IF YOU SPEND YOURSELVES IN BEHALF OF THE HUNGRY AND SATISFY THE NEEDS OF THE OPPRESSED, THEN YOUR LIGHT WILL RISE IN DARKNESS…I have seen HIS ways, but I will heal HIM; I will guide HIM & restore comfort to HIM.
(God is at work here!)

Amanda B. - April 29, 2011 - 3:45 pm

Hi Andrea! I have been following your blog for awhile since we have started feeling God’s call to adoption. Just wanted to give you a positive comment in light of the thoughtless one from “John”. You have been a regular source of encouragement for me as we go through this process. God is using your personal reflections to encourage and help many! I am one! Thanking God for your heart and faithfulness to His call in your life!
Amanda

Allie - April 29, 2011 - 7:55 pm

I have been reading your blog for sometime now. I love how your heart overflows with the love of Christ. I have been checking frequently for post 5 of the best years of your life….did I miss it?

Rory Cookman - April 29, 2011 - 8:18 pm

I second all these comments. Keep fighting the good fight!:)

marci - April 29, 2011 - 8:46 pm

Sweet Andrea, Sigh, I read this and thought …I wish I knew scripture better…more quickly…easier to find…So, I knew which I wanted to say to this blog but, not sure how I would find it…I walk over to flip through my Bible and Sweet Jesus has me open the page to the EXACT scripture on my heart to share and affirm you…Spiritual Gifts 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 it says it all ! Each of us have been given a gift …all are the work of one and the same Spirit and He gives them to each person just as He determines!
It is God’s will for you to hear His call. I get goosebumps to see our sweet Lord working in your family and your heart. Carry On for it is for His glory ! P.S. The Lord equips me and I feel like He smiles that it still brings tears to my eyes!

Lauren - April 30, 2011 - 12:23 pm

LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’ve had some really hurtful comments left on my blog over the last couple years (thankfully only a couple) but after crying in my keyboard I came to the same realization you did — must be doing something right!! Satan must HATE it!! haha Then it just made me more passionate to keep on going!

Thanks for sharing the links where we can help out. I’m praying for all my fellow southerners today. We were grateful to only endure tornado watches and storms…. I’m just heartbroken for those who weren’t so lucky. God be with them.

Lauren - April 30, 2011 - 12:23 pm

PS – your children are adorable and your sewing skills are amazing!! 🙂

Kim - May 1, 2011 - 12:34 am

I just love your blog AND your heart.. so keep doing exactly what you’re doing!

Deborah - May 1, 2011 - 7:45 am

Hi Andrea,
First, Love the skirt. I don’t sew, YET, but I think I’ll get the book and learn.

Secondly, you and your blog have been such an inspiration to me. I see my life changing (trying to follow Gods plan for me) and you have been a great source of encouragement to me. I actually feel sorry for “John” because he obviously blind to your heart and more importantly God’s heart. Isaiah 51:7-58 (posted a few comments above) speaks directly to this situation.

Hurtful comments don’t always come from strangers. As I learn more and try to follow God’s plan for me, I feel the looks and hear the comments from family and friends who don’t understand.

Amie Wagner - May 1, 2011 - 11:46 pm

Andrea, our service this morning was about hearing God’s whispers and sure enough, He spoke to me through your words tonight. Yes, the Lord has given us different gifts to be used for his glory for sure! Just imagine how many others have been impacted by what you have shared on your blog & how happy this must make Him! This was my response when I had someone make a similar statement to me: We are all human, love knows no boundaries and neither should our compassion. God does not favor Americans in need over the poor, needy & hungry in other parts of the world. Instead of judging others that are doing something positive in the world, we should look within and get involved in helping in whatever way our heart leads us.

Debb - May 2, 2011 - 12:23 am

Hello, dear friend. First, let me just tell you that your creativity is endless! I bought a friend’s sewing machine at her yard sale before moving. Hoping one day I will learn how to sew! 🙂 Secondly, I am so HAPPY to see that you covered yourself with God’s armor! Let the enemy’s darts and arrows continue to bounce right off of that armor! You are covered in Christ! You are walking His very path set before you. Keep walking this direction that you know is lead by our Heavenly Father! Keep believing in who you are in Christ and in the direction He has pointed you! God is using you in many many ways, so of course the enemy will use others to try to thwart God’s plan for your life. Keep on keeping on! Don’t look back. Keep your eyes on Him. He will continue to direct your paths. And I will enjoy continuing to follow you, watching where He takes you! Your family is beautiful and I enjoy getting to “know” them. Isaac is a reminder to me of God’s faithfulness. Your faith is inspiring. Keep looking UP, my friend, and allow no one the ability to distract that divine focus………….Blessings to you!……………..

Debb - May 2, 2011 - 12:25 am

P.S…..SOOOOOO GLAD you are safe from the tornado too! God is GOOD! Our church is sending some people down and more will follow in the near future! *HUGS*

April 27, 2011

No longer an orphan…now called a SON!

SOOOO thankful that baby Mark is NOW home and an official member of the Cain family!!! Jeremiah and Mark flew home THIS SATURDAY…and we are SO PUMPED to have a new member in our African Fellowship group!!! They’ve been coming for months…and we’ve been all anxiously waiting Mark coming home! Sweet Sara stayed here with their 2 children while Jeremiah went to Uganda. Might I add she stayed home with their 2 year old son and NEWBORN baby girl!!!!! Yes–they found out they were expecting during their wait and they didn’t BLINK! And now–3 children 2 and under!!!!

We were SO SAD not to be at the airport–but this melts my heart seeing the Cain family and so many of the families in our fellowship. And what REALLY melts my heart–is you about to witness Sara meeting her son for the first time…and their family finally being united after such a long wait! GOD IS SOOOOO GOOD!