Hi everyone!
I'm not sure how many people actually read my blog, but I do hope (for those of you who obviously do) that it is helpful for you all to know what is going on with us!
Well, we have officially reached the one year mark since the official start of our adoption process! Of course, we had been thinking and praying about adopting for a long time, but last year at this time, we had made the final decision to adopt. What a year it has been! We are also at the six-month mark from the time that we were officially accepted and put into the adoption pool.
The reason I am writing this particular entry is to give you all the official update. At this point, nothing has really changed for us. Pregnancy rates have been very low in the state of Montana, and there haven't been many moms using CSSM since we have been accepted. Our social worker told me the other day that it is a normal cycle to have months without many birthparents and then have a huge influx of new birthparents all at the same time. We still could get a phone call tomorrow telling us that we have a baby, but most likely, it will still be at least a few months (if not longer) until we are selected. This part of the process has been hard, though the Lord has helped keep us busy so that the time doesn't seem so long! I've often found myself singing a song that we sing to Lydia when she is having problems being patient. Many of you probably know it, but it goes like this:
"Have patience. Have patience. Don't be in such a hurry. When you are impatient, you only start to worry. Remember, remember, that God is patient too. And think of all the times that others have to wait on you!"
It's extremely ironic to me that I use that song for Lydia when I really need it more than she does some days. :) One of the songs that I have considered to be a "life song" for me is also the song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller from the movie "Fireproof". That song has always seemed appropriate for me throughout the last few years, and it continues to be a song that helps me refocus on God's mercy and grace when I'm having a hard time with being patient. This time of year really makes me long to have a new baby, but I have been so encouraged by friends and family this holiday season. I know that God has our child already picked out for us, and I just have to learn to wait and be thankful for His provision.
In the meantime, Joe and I have kept busy (which also helps me to not focus on waiting). Joe has been doing wonderfully at his job (he just got a promotion!), and I have been busy homeschooling Lydia, keeping up with housework, and watching a few kids part-time during the week. Joe was in a car accident in the beginning of December (he wasn't hurt, thank the Lord!), and I due to the accident, I have been kept occupied sorting everything out with insurance agencies! I would like to personal thank everyone who have continue to ask about our adoption plans. It is hard to talk about sometimes, but it is so encouraging to know that so many of you have kept us in your thoughts and prayers! Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts! We will keep everyone updated, especially if something happens!
God has been so faithful to us, and we cannot express our gratitude enough to him! We love you all, and we are so thankful for all of our blessings!
With much love and prayers for a wonderful new year,
Joe, Shiloh, and Lydia
