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A day with the babies…

02.25.2011

I have my sweet kindred spirit friend in town…and since she has never been to the South–we decided to do something touristy today and while P and L were at school we took the babies to the Aquarium! It was so much fun (Minus Isaac does NOT do crowds…and I mean doesn’t as in DOES NOT do crowds! How I forgot this I do not know–but trust me I was reminded and it we may not try this again for a long, long time! THANKFULLY my friend Holly-girl was with me so she had a date with Frankie baby while I stayed in more open spaces with ITY). And for once I actually made it in some pictures…so my kids WILL know I was part of their crazy…

We walked in, and I hadn’t taken the time to figure out my camera settings indoors quite yet–and while this one is full of grain…it is the FIRST time Isaac has seen BIG fish…and I still captured a bit of his surprise and wonder…

Unfortunately, I have zero pictures from the exhibits because I was quickly reminded on the tighter walkways that this is NOT Isaac’s cup of tea. I think we got the attention of everyone except for security (I actually think we got their attention but we had their sympathy!)–and thankfully I had Cheerios and snacks…basic needs are always an immediate comfort in those emergencies…and thankfully I also had my sweet friend Holly with me to take Frank to the exhibits while we stayed back and managed…and I do mean MANAGED. There was ONE room that Isaac was comfortable in…so we parked it there for AWHILE (like for more than half of our visit), and we just let the babies play!

Frank has THE sweetest heart and is so patienct with his little brother. He is so proud of him when he is happy and settles in…and never joins him in his fussiness or fits when I feel most toddlers might. Truly–it amazes me as I watch the Lord shape my children’s heart through changes He calls us to make and how He leads us to grow. I wish you could hear him saying, “I-ack!” God knew just what my boys needed when he brought these two together…(can’t you see just a glimpse of Frankie baby’s smiles and celebration of his I-ack!)

Frankie-baby kept saying, “Wowwww momma!” (MELT my heart with his wonder and sweetness…really–until you meet Frank you have no idea of his melt-my-heart nature!!!)

The boys would just sit and stare…

And then they’d have baby talk about what they saw (don’t you wish you could listen in?!)…

I was so proud of Isaac as he got more comfortable to leave Frankie baby and explore a bit…

And then it was time to return to his comfort zone…right where his brother always seems to be–not to far from his side…

Hope you all have a GREAT weekend!!! XOXO!

Andrea

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missy - February 25, 2011 - 1:39 am

these photos of brotherly love are SO precious!!!!

Allison - February 25, 2011 - 8:46 am

They are so precious!! What great memories these two will have together 🙂

brantley freeman - February 25, 2011 - 9:20 am

Wow! How sweet are those! That last one melts my heart! 🙂

Elle J - February 25, 2011 - 11:15 am

Every picture is filled with so much love and wonderment. The photos are just perfect, Andrea!!!

Alison - February 25, 2011 - 4:35 pm

Love these precious pictures, Andrea!! Adorable! And your hair looks so cute! 🙂

Shannon - February 25, 2011 - 9:35 pm

Oh ya. Crowds. They take a while. And crowds in new places- double trouble. It’s fear. Sensory overload brings FEAR raging in on the littles. We are still trying to figure it out. Sometimes, he’s great and others- eh. Unpredictable. Makes outings a bit of a test. But what choice is there?? He’s looking great! And I bet the next time at the same place he’ll be more comfy. btw- i love seeing the two little guys together. So cute!

MamaMimi - February 28, 2011 - 2:22 am

PRECIOUS pics Andrea!!!

A Date with God… {Creative Quiet Time at Home}

02.24.2011

Many of you moms came to the Created for Care mommy retreat and got to experience a sweet hour created just for you to have a ‘date with God’…to spend time with Him–praying, reading scripture, listening, asking Him to show you His heart…

My dear friend Jenni Means led this time. She is the director of the children’s ministry at Northlands Church in Norcross, Georgia and often they facilitate this special time for the children in their program. When we were praying about the Created for Care retreat, Jenni told me about this time they have for children–and I just loved it…only for these women–also His children.

On the Saturday of the retreat, there were 10-15 volunteers in this room who had been preparing and praying over the women who would come. Upon arrival, the women were told about this special hour on Saturday and they were able to sign up for a time in the “Date with God” room during their free time…which would last around 1 hour. While it was originally designed for children–I have heard more miraculous stories about what happened in hearts over the weekend during this time. God showed up in ways these women didn’t expect–and without expecting it…they had fun seeking Him in new, creative ways–and many stayed well past their hour as they didn’t want to leave.

A prayer wall with prayers of each of the women…giving us a time to pray over and for one another…a painting station with acrylics and paintbrushes…a tent full of pillows to rest and listen…a cross with Bibles and scripture at the foot to seek Him through His word…in another corner–globes and maps to pray for the world…another place to doodle and draw…and another corner with tables full of playdough/clay. And each station–had a purpose. A different focus.

I will never forget running in that room after it was over realizing in my planning and coordinating that I JUST MISSED the 4 hours set aside for women to come in that room. I ran in…my breath winded–and I said to Jenni, “Oh I’m so sad! I think I’m too late.” Sweetly she led me in with her hand on my back and whispered, “It’s never too late.” I held back tears and knelt at the cross. Tears came down in my exhaustion and I prayed…

Then I looked around…knowing the women must be ready to pack things up–but the worship music continued softly and I could see these women were praying FOR me as I had my time with the Lord. I felt their prayers–and most importantly…I felt His presense. I prayed about where I should then go…and I walked over to the paints. I looked in front of me and saw a sign “Ask God to show you His heart…” I picked up a paintbrush…worship music playing in the distance–I closed my eyes and asked Him to show me His heart…and I began to paint.

I can’t describe how freeing, worshipful and sweet that time was for me. I also can’t tell you how it has also changed how I see my time as a stay-at-home mom. There I was in this room–worshiping with paint, playdough, markers…all things we use regularly at home just killing time and “trying” to be creative…and I realized that THIS was worship. My day-in-day-out diapers, laundry, playdough, paints, hotdogs, naptimes, play times…they CAN BE worship.

And they can be so much MORE for my children too.

So this week…I got out the paints…and I explained to my children what worship is…and how it isn’t always singing or praying. Often, it’s doing what we do every day–but it’s our heart WHILE we are doing it that can make it worship.


I turned on the music…and we talked about God…about heaven…about Jesus…about His hope for us. And we dreamed together.

“What should be paint mama?” Laney asked.

“Just dream of how sweet it is to be in His presence…and paint that.”

Their eyes widened…and they began to paint…

Their sweet voices quietly shared with one another what they were painting…and what it meant to them…

This was just for THEM…but this momma found herself taken away and I didn’t want to paint on their drawings…but before I knew it I found I couldn’t resist–and I joined them by painting on the napkins…

Isaac sweetly danced to the music…

I love how he waves his hands back and forth when he dances.

And then Frankie-baby woke up from his nap and wanted to join in too…

I stood over Frank’s work and was taken back by His goodness in my life…and speechless…unable to describe with words the power of His presence…

We talked about their work…and then the big picture…from painting to playdough to chalk…I see their sweet hearts and how He is shaping them…and I’m so thankful to be their momma…

This is such a sweet and fun way to show your children another way to spend time with God…and how everything we do can be worship. You’re never too old to go on a “Date with God” with playdough and paint…and you’re never too young either…

HERE IS A DOWNLOADABLE HOW-TO WITH MORE RESOURCES!

Posted in Created for Care Adoption Retreat,Inspirational
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Christy - February 24, 2011 - 7:10 am

Thank you!!! Love it! Can’t wait to try it! 🙂

Heather Kelley - February 24, 2011 - 7:45 am

Thanks for the reminder. I accidentally left my picture at the hotel, but I can still see it clearly in my head. I needed a reminder of what God taught me during that time. I’ll have to remember to do it more often.

Maria Davis - February 24, 2011 - 8:18 am

When I came home from the conference I couldn’t figure out how to use this with my kids. I am encouraged by this idea. I will be using this!

Audrey @ The Brown Brigade - February 24, 2011 - 8:37 am

What a great post! I have told many people about my “Date with God” and I truly hope that they all have an opportunity to have one of their own. It was such an awesome time for me and my relationship with HIM. Thank you for including it in the weekend.

Heather R - February 24, 2011 - 9:00 am

i very much enjoyed the date with god time. it was a spirit filled time for sure. i spent my time in the tent, with scripture, play dough and painting. God reminded me again during that time that he has asked me to be his hands. So, i made a hand with play dough. He also told me “there’s 2”, 2 children for us to adopt. I asked him if they were coming together and he told me that wasn’t important now, just keep working on getting on the waitlist. So, i painted 2 hands on the shape of africa. 2 hands i will hold one day. such a wonderful weekend for so many reasons, this was just one hour! i feel so blessed to have been able to attend.

Kristin - February 24, 2011 - 9:36 am

I just posted recently about how I despise cleaning the house, but now I put on my worship music and clean like there’s no tomorrow. I’m sure if there was a camera in the house, someone would get a good laugh. One minute I’m dancing like a nut and the next I’m crying my eyes out all the while cleaning house! And it never looked or smelled better!!

Dawn - February 24, 2011 - 11:39 am

LOVE THIS!!!! We have done a version of this with our campers before…very powerful. Now to do this with our children more often 🙂

Courtney - February 24, 2011 - 1:52 pm

i LOVE this!
this is right up my alley…strikes my heartbeat…
the “everyday” stuff CAN be the BIG stuff!

Angela - February 24, 2011 - 2:30 pm

The Date with God was seriously the best part of the retreat for me. It was exactly what I needed. It was so so beautiful and worshipful for me. The Lord has continued to speak over me things that He spoke to me that weekend. I love that I can do this with my daughter too! 🙂

Rebecca - February 24, 2011 - 3:26 pm

Thanks for reminder. Was so blessed by the “Date with God”, and so inspired by the idea that God speaks to my kids, that they have a spirit…regardless of how little they are, or whether they can communicate with words. Love this idea.

Meredith - February 25, 2011 - 5:33 pm

I loved my date with God at the retreat. I arrived a little late and ended up staying for 2 sessions. As I was leaving I told Jenni that I wished I could stay all day, and she sweetly responded, “you can stay all day if you want.” Love her! I look forward to doing this with my boys at home. It was also a reminder to me that I can worship and walk with God any time, anywhere.

MamaMimi - February 28, 2011 - 2:29 am

What a FABULOUS idea!!!!

Sara - June 23, 2012 - 4:52 pm

I love this! We call it “painting a prayer.” Each time is more powerful than I anticipate and I wonder why we don’t do it more! Let the little children come….

True Religion

02.23.2011

If you are a blog reader of mine, you know I process through writing what God is teaching me–and you also know any time I take a few days off from writing its usually not because I’m busy (because writing is HOW this momma unwinds from her busy)…it’s usually because He’s teaching me and it’s hard to process. I haven’t blogged since Sunday publically–but I did write on Monday, Tuesday and today…very long posts—prayed over them…processed them…and then stowed them away in my heart–and for now that is where they will stay.

The Lord is really teaching me a lot right now–through walking with others in their hardship (their distress) and pain…orphans and widows…choosing to do life together and saying, “We are in this together—for the long haul…and we will look for God and His faithfulness through it.”

While some of my readers may come to my blog and feel “moved” to consider adoption after hearing our experience…or after seeing a sweet coming home video–that, my sweet sisters and brothers, is not really what James 1:27 is about at all—or else anyone not called to adopt wouldn’t be offered a part in true religion–right? Adoption is growing my family–it’s choosing to follow God in growing my family in a different way…and to be willing to do for my newest son what I would and will do for all of my children to be there for them and when need be–walk through times of hardship, healing and pain with them. I can some what guess that it may be more often, however, for the children God brings to me through adoption–but that of course is no promise. We are NOT all called to adopt…any more than we are not all called to have more children biologically–but adoption IS one of the many ways God can use us to change orphans to sons and daughters…and this is GOOD…it is a CALLING…and discerning that calling over emotion is very important.

SO…what about James 1:27? How do we LIVE true religion? Because this–as believers we are all called to–if we want to experience Him fully and live true religion (James 1:27). How do we care for, visit and look after orphans and widows in their distress? How can we help walk with orphans and widows during their time of pain? This verse isn’t about changing orphans to sons and daughters or finding the widow a new spouse–but about going there with them in their distress—and THIS is what true religion is. While only 1% of the estimated 140 million orphans worldwide are considered eligible for adoption, and 90% still have one living parent–or you could say 90% have a widow as a parent. How can we live James 1:27 to these? How can we look after, care for and visit them…and really begin going there in their distress with them? The Lord has been showing me more and more about the answers to these questions–and while my home right now is pretty crazy and may not be the best fit right now to add another one of the precious 1% to come join our crazy–how can God use me right where I am for the other 99%? To really LOOK AFTER these in their time of DISTRESS…oh–I think I’m ready to go there.

When I think about visiting orphans and widows–the first place my heart naturally goes is to our “other family”…my son’s first family. There is a widow and single orphans across the world. Then I think about our next closest–those already around us. Our church alone has countless single orphans whose mom or dad is no longer with them–and essentially in many ways single moms are modern day widows in our culture. How can I live James 1:27–pure and faultless religion? While we follow where the Lord leads in these ways and choose not to always share the ins and outs here–God sees our hearts and our hands–and that is enough. And it is good.

And while most times my tendency is to start at home and move outward–I want to also remember where the places are where the forgotten live? I think about our ministry in Zambia/Africa–where adoption is closed yet more than 1/3 of their children are orphans. WOW. Our eyes are opened when we VISIT them (James 1:27) but naturally more people visit the countries they adopt from. SO–what about these countries that some times fly under the radar? Use us Lord to live James 1:27–to YES serve in our neighborhoods and to live true religion here–but to also some times leave where we are comfortable or feel personally connected to and visit, look after and love widows and orphans in places that aren’t as convenient or as attractive…meeting someone in their distress will never look fun–it’s not a brownie sale and the pain through it is not “blogable” and thankfully so…because there are some things so sacred where true religion resides that should be treasured in our hearts and leave us in worship as we see Him working through us. Following the Lord in the way of James 1:27 will not be easy–but I can promise it will refine and change…and you will be amazed when you see Christ come through. You WILL see His glory. He will be faithful with His presence. And it will be SO SACRED that you won’t publically share it with others…because you will know–it is HOLY…you won’t be able to write about it because you can’t even express it’s power. It is TRUE RELIGION…it is beautifully painful, yet good—and you will want to follow Him again and again in true religion to see Him over and over…and over again. And it makes sense why He calls us to serve and be His hands in this way.

And speaking of visiting orphans and widows in their distress–if you would be interested in joining us on our next trip to Zambia this June–please contact me. We have just a few spots–but we’d love to take you with us! There’s no building. There’s no painting. But there is sitting. We sit and we listen…and we love. As simple as that. And you probably not be able to find the words to write about it either…or words to express how YOU were changed in the process. But James 1:27 doesn’t have to just be around the world…it can be as close as next door. It probably won’t knock on our doors–but when you are ready ask Him to take you there and begin leading you to true religion and worship in this way. I never want to lose sight of what this verse means and what through it we are being asked to do.

As believers, let’s pray how He can use us to live James 1:27 fully and to be used for His great glory and good…

Posted in Orphan & Widow Care
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Nancy - February 23, 2011 - 2:46 pm

This is especially encouraging to me today. Thank you for what you share. He is the King of Glory!

Dawn - February 23, 2011 - 3:25 pm

So true….there are soo many ways to serve widows and orphans. And many of us forget those.

Lara - February 23, 2011 - 3:30 pm

Oh, howI wish I could go to Zambia! Next time hopefully!

Elle J - February 23, 2011 - 3:30 pm

I have been pouring over my bible this morning – heavy heart – and I asked God for His words, and as I continued to thumbs through verses, skipping around, I thought of Andrea and how I longed for her to write. After awhile I checked into your blog – THIS appeared. Melting away with tears ….

Alison - February 23, 2011 - 3:56 pm

Love this…have been thinking so much lately about these precious orphans who are unadoptable. I feel like God is showing us so much…

Andrea B - February 23, 2011 - 6:44 pm

Oh Andrea I am dying to go on a service trip right now. We have friends that just returned from Honduras and I tried to stow away with them. I would love to go, but I am hopeful that I will be in Africa by the end of summer.

Sandi - February 24, 2011 - 10:47 am

Amen! It has been very humbling to see that there are so many ways we can follow God’s call to live out true religion. He is teaching me that “helping orphans & the poor” has many faces. It’s encouraging to know that God will use us just as we are daily in many different ways to help those who are struggling silently be it in our own home town or around the world. Makes me thank God that he is so much bigger than we think & that he created all of us to fulfill different purposes.

Ashley - February 24, 2011 - 12:16 pm

I’ve been reading James 1:27 every day lately and was so excited to read your post on it! I’m terrible at keeping up with my blog and when I do it’s usually just pics of Ryder…but thought about you when I shared this today so take a peek at it if you have time…

http://andyandashleymac.blogspot.com/2011/02/nickels-dimes-and-quarters.html

The moments between the miracles…

02.20.2011

I feel like my posts the last few weeks haven’t made much sense–as I pray for what is ahead but wait upon Him for confirmation and His timing. So while I wait and pray–I do my best to share what I’m learning…partly to remember this part later–and the other part just because I feel like I’m supposed to…maybe for you. I was listening to the song today “Never Let Go” and tonight as I was reflecting on how He never lets go–I was thinking about how as we seek and follow Him…we begin to see BIG and some times challenging and even hard things ahead. Yet–in the “in between” life still happens.

You sense His next plan for your story is a bit more unknown or uncomfortable or uncertain than the last–and while you could be filled with fear or anxiety because it seems too crazy or too big for little ole you–instead you remember that you can REST because you know His perfect timing for the things He has already set aside for us to do (see Ephesians 2:10)…so no reason to worry about the timing OR if you will be able (He who calls you will equip you…you know that’s my favorite thing to say!) and because we know that nothing He plans for you can be thwarted (see Job 42:2). SO…in the wait…in the middle of the miracles—the result of your obedience to say YES and be available for the “a time such as this” moments–the day-to-day moments happen…and you see His glory shine through…reminding you that you CAN and WILL indeed trust Him for what is ahead (these moments…THEY are the ‘stones of remembrance’ of His faithfulness in the past…and a reminder of His faithfulness in your future!).

Watching my four littles play today–reminded me of His faithfulness in my life…His goodness…and how much HE loves my children even more than I do. And while I pray about the things I feel like He is asking me to pray over and surrender…I am reminded that THEY will learn more from a mommy who follows God’s call on her life rather than giving them the things the world might desire or what our culture competes to give…that isn’t the race this momma was called to run. And I sit back and watch with wonder.

MUCH of what the Lord calls us to will seem crazy. (As believers, we should really scratch our head and wonder are we REALLY listening and following if our lives don’t look different from the world…if they don’t look a little crazy…or God-sized…or full of miracles.) SO…as we seek and follow–for some it will seem crazy. Especially to the world. And that’s okay. Because really, I look back on where He has taken me thus far…and I am just thankful He didn’t let me stay comfortable. And how much better this is…it was His idea–and it’s perfect. I’ll admit–some days I tell my Creator that He is crazy–and I can’t believe even with sleepless nights…I wouldn’t change anything. ANYTHING. And I shake my head and laugh.

And I realize the fears and wonders from the last thing–are all faded away. Not only am I changed–but I see how others in our lives have changed with us. So I stand in awe of how God works and how He blesses not only us–but others too.

Isaac with his Gigi today

Gigi and Aunt Reid with the crew

I loved spending time with family today…I love that Aunt Reid now serves Wiphan with her teaching talent…and my sister and brother-in-law just got home from Zambia…and talking about when trips will be this summer…who will watch kids…should Rich and I travel at different times…this and that—this is just normal. Which makes it crazy to now feel like this is just life–and it’s really just so good for this to be part of what is normal for us. Yet ahead…in the midst of these moments–I sense His calling again…and this time just like the last I say to Him again, “You are crazy Lord…but I love your ideas more than mine–so I’ll wait on your timing and I’m just along for the ride. And last but not least–please make my really husband excited about this…because that’s really important…and help me follow in that excitement…instead of wondering, doubting, being anxious…”

And that is where you feel the rubber meet the road once again…the road of FAITH.

And this is where I feel like I may not be making sense any more–but maybe some of you are there so you understand perfectly. Let us pray that we will listen, hear and most importantly FOLLOW. Our lives really should look different–and they will be stories that we couldn’t write even if we wanted to. I know some of you reading might be saying, “Oh my–that sounds amazing”…and I’ll tell you that it is. But how to get there? It’s really quite simple. You just open your hands and say, “I’m willing–I’m willing to do anything for Your name’s sake–here I am–use me.” And then instead of just sitting there–you begin looking every where you go and asking, “Would You have me do something here? What could I do for You? Help me see You–and I will follow.”

Much love to all of you–and I’ll end on some pictures of my 18 month cutie…was about to fall short of 18 month pictures but snagged a few tonight…whether he wanted me to or not!

AND to make you smile…just in case you think I take too many pictures of ITY–HE is the ONLY one that doesn’t run from momma with a camera! I turned to try and take some of Frankie baby after Isaac and this is what he did squealing “No pi-cha momma! NO!”(Please take note–Frank is wearing a soccer jersey of Parker’s. He is going through a phase that he eats, sleeps…you name it–he MUST be wearing what he calls “socca team!” at ALL times. We wash these AROUND the clock!)

THEN…a neighbor and DEAR FRIEND who read my blog about no sleep came over and brought me chocolate (my favorite!) and a gift to help me through the no sleeping! SO PERFECT because EVERY morning Rico Suave does this silly accent sing-song voice saying with his first sip of coffee “This tastes like Hea-VOUGN!” Thank you LIZ!

And to top it off–these people made our sweet friend staying with us BANANA PUDDING…we are really trying to pour on the SOUTH here to our visiting friend from the north! Aren’t my little bakers the CUTEST?!

Just wanted to encourage some of you today–as some times I look at pictures like this one (above) and think, “Now…3 kids–that was crazy enough–and we could have just settled for that crazy and trips to Disney and ballet and baseball.” BUT…while there is nothing at all wrong with doing those things–I really believe following God into the big, wild, crazy, unknown–the sacrifices He will ask you to make to get there that will some times mean sacrificing what the rest of the world counts as standard or normal–I believe will truly change your heart and the hearts of your children more than any of those things ever could. Trust Him with your families as you follow Him in new adventures–and make this life one of living for the Kingdom…building your treasures in heaven rather than on Earth.

May you see the path clearly He has for each of you. Cheering you on as your rubber meets the road…and while you wait for the miracles He has called you to join Him in…I pray you see His faithfulness and glory in the sweet moments of your day-to-day life!

XOXO!

Andrea

Posted in Day in the Life,Learning,Mommy Moments
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Kim - February 20, 2011 - 5:47 am

Love. This. Post.
I too feel like I am in between the miracles.
Restless and weary from a long standing prayer request.
But ever mindful to not let that distract me from our “everyday adventures” in faith.
The Job 42:2 verse was a beautiful reminder. Thank you.
And I cannot wait to see what is around the corner for your beautiful family!
Love & Blessings from Hong Kong,
Kim

Joy Kinard - February 20, 2011 - 7:15 am

Oh sweet girl, this post was for me! We are in the midst of crazy over here. We are fostering a baby girl we’ve had since birth, she’s 3 months now. I am staying at home and really need to go back to work, but God just keeps saying no. My Mama-heart is glad, my checkbook is sad. We spent the day with our family yesterday who have quite different priorities. We toured my sister-in-laws new $400K house that only she and her 6 year old live in. We got to see the new bass boat my brother-in-law got for his 40th birthday. We heard all about the upcoming trip to Hawaii my husband’s sisters are taking in April, with a stop in California for a few days. Yesterday was the first day they had met our foster baby- who is black. They knew she was black, but knowing and seeing are two different things and that was evident. It was a long ride home last night. My heart just struggled with “things” we don’t have, and God’s plan, and acceptance. So, this post was very much for me. Thank you for sharing.

Christy - February 20, 2011 - 7:37 am

Thanks, Andrea. Needed this! Praying for you!

Kristin - February 20, 2011 - 7:47 am

I needed to read this. We have a meeting coming up on Friday with our social worker from the pregnancy center. Everything is updated so we’re not sure why she’s driving 2 1/2 hours to come and see us and the kids are to be here. She said she was not at liberty to tell us, so my mind has been wondering what in the world this is about. Not typical, I don’t think, if there is such a thing as typical. Anyways, trying to let go knowing that God will not.

Kelly - February 20, 2011 - 8:17 am

Thank you for this post! I’m praying through some of those exact same things right now! I’m not one to “sit around.” I’m a “do-er.” So, the fact that I feel God call me out of a ministry that’s been SUCH a HUGE part of my and my entire family’s life for the last 8 years is SCARY! BUT, He is calling us into the wide world of adoption! We’re expecting from Ethiopia (possibly siblings!)!!! STILL, I feel a restlessness that usually, in my case, means, HOLD ON, KELLY! I HAVE BIGGER THINGS YET! And, I think, “Seriously? Can I take a small break?” Then I think of Oswald Chambers in “My Utmost for His Highest,” when he says (paraphrased), “You will never be released from the Great Commission.” So, keep on keepin’ on, and I’ll try to do the same!!! (I’m trying to get a blog up and running…unsuccessfully right now, but it’ll be up soon!) 🙂

jenny - February 20, 2011 - 9:43 am

Needed this reminder!!! WIth our adoption taking longer than we planned it is so wonderful to be reminded that it is not longer than God has planned. His timing will be perfect for our family….and to rest in the beauty of seeing it all unfold is a blessing. Love you and praying for you too!

Lara - February 20, 2011 - 9:59 am

Love this, friend. I was just thinking the other night about how we are on kind of a “high” right now. God is moving BIG and fast and we are seeing Him minute by minute in exciting ways. I was wondering what it’s like to come down from that mountain and settle into the everyday. God is teaching me so much lately that the everyday is where the true miracles happen, I am just more likely to miss them. Isn’t He good?

Jennifer - February 20, 2011 - 10:12 am

Yes…yesterday I was reflecting on how our huge age gap, adoption heart, etc. were so normal 2 weeks ago in Georgia and as I sit with my oldest son’s basketball team the moms are all smiling at me chasing my 2 year old and saying, “So glad we are done with that stage.” Well, with the exception of one mom who started over with a little boy from China and is now 4 (CL/CP too)…she gets it! 🙂 She is the light of our life…so glad we didn’t miss this opportunity to be parents again! Praying we take courage and don’t let fear stop us if the Lord calls us to adopt again!

Renae - February 20, 2011 - 10:42 am

I have loved “finding” and following your blog!!! You have been very encouraging to me lately as we begin the process of adopting from Ethiopia(our second adoption-first was Bulgaria-home July 2010)….we are already facing financial attack, emotional attack, and in the middle of it all..I have this CRAZY idea that we’re supposed to request TWINS!!! It is a crazy hard road into the unknown, and we have very little support…SOOOOOO, keep writing!:) It ministers to my heart and gives me the courage to continue on this WILD path of international adoption!!

God Bless,
Renae
http://intothefieldsofthefatherless.blogspot.com

Dawn - February 20, 2011 - 11:40 am

PRAYING for you as God continues to call you to what He has for you. I feel those moments ….many times. The moments inbetween. Love what God does…

Chasity - February 20, 2011 - 3:09 pm

Right there with ya Andrea!

Jen - February 20, 2011 - 3:49 pm

This post was for me too. Our family is about to enter the “crazy” life and leave our comfy American lifestyle behind. I know it’s the perfect path for us, but I wonder how many people will understand and encourage us along the way. I am blessed to have a husband who doesn’t question this path and is obedient to God’s perfect plan. Thank you for writing you thoughts and feelings, it makes me feel that I am not the only “crazy” one put there….

Cristal - February 20, 2011 - 11:35 pm

I am sitting here reading your post and amazed at how God speaks through people that I don’t even really know! God has been calling our family to a life that isn’t normal and goes against what society says a family should do or have. He is calling us instead to give Him all that we have so that He can make much of His name through us! Oh how that doesn’t make sense to alot of people! Thank you for allowing God to use your journey to encourage me.

Sandi - February 21, 2011 - 7:29 pm

You were speaking on EXACTLY what I have been praying about!!! Praying about God really breaking my hubby’s heart for those in need. He gave me a triple dose of mercy but hubby just doesn’t understand. God is bringing people into our lives who need lots of support on top of the call to adopt. I am just faithfully trying to follow his call even when it’s hard. Even when it costs or results in sacrifice for our family. Sun I had a discussion with my hubby about getting his heart ready for what God has in store for us & that adoption while scary for him is our next step. Afterwards he accidentally broke my super heavy indestructible mantle cross the 4th one since I felt in my heart to adopt. I told him God is letting him know that faith without deeds is meaningless & that we are called to act despite our fears. He is a factual guy & is having a hard time reconciling what “makes sense” with what God is doing in our lives. Oh & the other day God used your blog to lead me to ourunveiledfaces.blogspot because they are needing 100 families to donate just $20 to build a grain mill in Holeta!!! God has used you to bless my life and to speak to me in so many ways!!!! Thank you for your courage & faith!!!

Rachel - February 22, 2011 - 12:22 pm

Thank you friend. You are so encouraging at keep things in perspective!

Audrey - February 22, 2011 - 10:02 pm

Thank you Andrea. You let the Lord speak through you today and it clearly reached many of our hearts. Just today I received more paperwork from AGCI and our journey to Ethiopia is getting so overwhelming. But your words lifted me up and reminded me of all of God’s promises that I’ve been standing on since He first called us to this task. I look forward to holding my Zoe Ameris in my arms; giving God all the glory. Bless you.

Keeley - February 23, 2011 - 12:03 am

Andrea, you are wonderful! I’m so thankful for your thoughts and inspiring attitude and faith. I feel as though we’re being called to adopt. My husband doesn’t feel the same; saying we’re stretched enough with the four kids under 9 we have now (the youngest being just 7 months). My sister tells me how much we’ll miss out on and how crazy life would be with more. We even discussed how my kids just might not get the chance to go to Disney World. 😉 I’m so relieved that someone else thinks as I do in that those things don’t really matter to me (and I don’t think they will really matter to my kids). I want them to be grateful. happy. giving. loving. faithful. I don’t think that will come with material things and experiences that society says they “should” have. Keep doing what you do – because it’s great. God Bless You!

Oh sweet day…

02.17.2011

How I love that I was reflecting on Psalm 46 as my day began. And a sweet day it was. I wish I could write about all of it’s sweetness–but some times it’s so sweet I have to keep it all to myself:). I even lit an appropriately sweet candle from a sweet blog reader and friend (thank you Cayte!). I lit it thinking of there soon to be trip to HONG KONG to bring home their little girl. If you have a minute–peep over to her blog and congratulate them on travel dates and keep them in your prayers as they leave to bring her home next week!

And check out the sweetness beyond the candle:)[Hmmm…how to change the focus and create an image with some things in focus and some things out? I set my camera on 2.8 aperature and put the focus point on Isaac. Simple as that. And the same thing with the cupcake up top–lower aperatures like 2.8 create more of that background blur known as bokeh in your pictures. You’ll just need to adjust the shutter speed to make sure all is metered–and if there isn’t enough natural light you can use a flash OR up your ISO in the camera settings. Just a little photography 101 for ya;)]

And if you LOOK really close you’ll see how much he likes Goldfish, Cheerios and Cheezits…which are a nightmare in that hair—the little stinker!

We have a precious friend visiting–and it’s been so much fun to retell our stories of how each of our children came to be…and it’s been just as precious to share my little ones. Reminds me how dear they are!!!

So…for the next couple of weeks–I’m going to be showing off the South…and of course letting Frankie-baby show off all the things he thinks are most important in life…like bubbles and Thomas. And super cool if bubbles and Thomas are combined…

THAT IS…when it actually works together!

Oh sweet FRANK!

And speaking of little guys…we are so thankful for the families who have inquired about the precious 3 year old we have been advocating for. I am hopeful that one of the families who has inquired IS his family:). More to come–just keep God’s purpose and plan in your prayers–and I hope to be able to share he has a family soon:). All this talk of little ones is giving this mom baby fever! OH when OH when does it ever stop?! Someone please tells me it goes away at some point?! Right??? I have been thinking a lot about this little man–about his big, sad eyes–and it made me think of this quote which I have this week on my dishwasher to remind me of the children who are waiting RIGHT NOW…many with no one standing in line for them in foster care, special needs circumstances and about to age out of the system…REALLY–this thought should NOT discourage us or make us sad–but get us EXCITED that we can be used to LOVE and SERVE…

There IS a reason Jesus said when we serve those who need us we are really serving HIM. It changes not only our response–the joy and readiness in it–but it also motivates our TRUST…that HE will provide as well as receive the glory as we follow and trust where He leads us!

SOOO…what to do with what can I do right now–because I feel like I want to do something…but I’m not feeling particularly called to do this or that RIGHT now…or in a postion to. There is SO much we can do RIGHT where we are. Currently, we are not serving the foster care or in the middle of bringing a new one home–BUT we do know several who are in the midst of these right here in our area and at our church. Wouldn’t it be AMAZING if every family had a support system of FIVE families to rotate meals, errands, carpool for older children and respite when the moms and dads need a date or just a break. FIVE families who they love and feel comfortable trusting their kids to. FIVE families who can take turns just coming over and stepping in here and there…JUST for the FIRST THREE months of their new transition?! This would enable the mom and dad to focus on connecting with their new one too! I’m telling you–I’ve brought home 3 from the hospital and just 1 from overseas–and it’s a whole new ball game…even a simple trip to the grocery and trying to put a 1 year old in a carseat who has never ridden in a car much less a carseat can be a daunting task! Wouldn’t it be so fun for some of us to help form these groups for a family–just to find 4 other families to join us and love on one family in their time of transition!!! SOOO…while we aren’t all called to adopt, go overseas, foster, etc–I think we can all do some pretty cool things to be a part helping today’s orphan crisis–that exists even in our own cities! (Just my practical idea for ‘what can I do right now’). Would love to hear your ideas and thoughts on this too!!!!

LAST but not least…you have to see what my mornings are like! SOOO…every morning I look like THIS running out the door and all over town…a baby on EACH hip! They STILL BOTH want me to hold them…and oh my–it was easier 6 months ago–but they are both getting so big and HEAVY! Just me and my babies…

AND YES–that IS my 2 year old with his binky!!! I used to be an old fuddie duddie and demanded that my baby #1 keep his binkie “in his crib only” and we were rid of it by 2…and I think I thought those were accomplishments…HA! (Totally not kidding–it was a “rule” and I guess it worked then…but Frank is a different bird!) My mommy priorities have definitely changed—and I’m so much more chill…Rico Suave and our friends say we take chill to a whole new level so I’m not sure if that is a good thing or not BUT Frankie baby can drag that binkie and blankie around with him while momma runs errands a bit longer…oh how I love these babies!Yep–momma is sporting her self-made bangs she created a few days ago!

GUESS what tomorrow is???!!! HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

XOXO!

Andrea

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missy - February 18, 2011 - 2:30 am

up late writing a talk and i had to check blogs before i went to bed. so glad to get little glimpses into your life. like your nuggets from the word, your two ever-growing babies on your hips, your continual desire to spur others on toward love and good deeds, and your fabulous chalkboard diswasher. brilliant beyond brilliant. i would love to do that. is it paint or some kind of adhesive backed panel?

thanks also for the photography advice. no matter how many times aperature is explained to me, it goes in one ear and out the other. but hopefully this time it will stick.

thanks for inspiring me in lots of different ways!

Kristi Gorrell - February 18, 2011 - 6:39 am

…So a baby on both hips totally explains why you’re so stinkin tiny!

Christy - February 18, 2011 - 6:47 am

ooooh love these ideas! Keep ’em coming! Thanks!

Sara - February 18, 2011 - 8:31 am

You go girl! Your arms have got to be buff! Love it!

Audrey - February 18, 2011 - 3:54 pm

I love the five families idea! Before beginning our journey to Ethiopia, we were foster parents for almost two years and had NO respite care available for a simple date night or weekend away…all of my grocery shopping was done at 9pm or 6am! Supporting and encouraging one another is so vital throughout the crazy journey of fostering and adopting. Thank you for that encouragement!
Bless you!
Audrey

MamaMimi - February 18, 2011 - 4:08 pm

I love this glimpse into your life! And yes, my two and a half year old still has his binkie too. Our rule is bed or carseat…but daddy wants it to go to just bedtime. Not sure I’m ready for this!!! =)

Dawn - February 18, 2011 - 6:36 pm

OH you crack me up 🙂
We stopped by the pregnancy center the other day to drop off clothes, and baby bits……MUCH NEEDED!!!! A great thing to do – help answer phones for them, organize and clean used clothes for them…etc. Always a need there. The widows of our day……

Oh LOVE the ideas of meals, and help. We have never had that- EVER. But it would be amazing to have.

I am totally letting Joanna do whatever for however long…..the more children you have the more chill you become 🙂 at least in our home. 🙂 (of course she wouldn’t take a passy 🙁 we tried for months!!!)

And no the baby craving doesn’t leave- or at least the desire for another kiddo…..for anyway…..that is whey we have 8 and probably more to come God Willing 🙂

Kandra - February 19, 2011 - 4:08 pm

Quick Q? Where did you get the dishwasher with the chalkboard front??? LOVE it!!! About to do a kitchen remodel…well update…would love that as a possibility!

Kandra

Shelly - February 19, 2011 - 8:41 pm

Love you. All us SixtyFeet girls agree… the more kiddos you add the more chill you need to be. We also agree that we love us some Andrea.

Jen - February 20, 2011 - 11:38 pm

Ok…I’m just wondering how you keep the awesome quotes on your dishwasher??? My kids would mess that up in about 3 seconds!(: It’s SO cute!