The day I got married, one of my closest friends looked me in the eye and said "God has many wild and wonderful things ahead for you and Jeremy."

Being called mom by 7 kids is definitely wild. Each day I look for the wonder in it all...and give thanks.

Partnering with my husband in life, parenting, work and serving is definitely wonderful. He is my favorite.



Thursday, September 17, 2015

Homecoming Anniversary


From our first pic as a family of 9 to the latest one taken this summer, it's still hard to believe today marks our Homecoming 3 years ago. 

Many have said we are inspiring, amazing, a beautiful picture of the gospel. 

When I look back I think "how did we survive those first 5 weeks in a guest house in Colombia? how did we manage with 3 teenage girls in one room when we got home? how did we learn to live together, learn language, just FEED everyone all the meals and snacks, learn how to love, grow, give space, lean in, get help?" 

There are many days I wake up or go to bed thinking "this is too hard. It's just too hard." 

And it's true but that's how I know God is REAL. 

He is WITH US. 

We are too weak, selfish, ill-equipped but HE fills in the gaps, gives us gifts of helps from His people, gently leads us. 

There were times I could not encourage others to adopt, but people ahead of me kept hoping, believing for me. 

Now I can encourage you to say YES to adoption. Say YES to whatever God has for you. He will not call you and leave you to it alone. 

I am thankful for the good and the bad. How God uses and does not let us stay at our worst. He gives us new mercies and grace. YAY FOR GRACE! 

Happy Homecoming Anniversary Katerin, Emily, Marian, Wesley, Omar, Saimon, and Savannah! I am so privileged to see God work in you and through you. 

You ARE an inspiration! I love you with my whole heart! 

Thank you, God, for letting me be mom to these kids. 

Don't deserve it-- and that IS the gospel.