the week...

What a week...there are so many emotions, experiences and memories that have been made over the last week that it is hard to put into words but I will make a valiant attempt!

**We cannot stop looking at the pictures of our 3 new sons. They are such handsome kids with great smiles!! For now, they will have to stay anonymous to the blogosphere as they are not "legally" part of our family yet. But if you come for coffee...I have pictures:)

**We have met and talked with 4 or so families who just 'happen' to live around us here in Alberta and have adopted children from Ethiopia. One thing I prayed for when we moved from SK is that God would provide us with community in the adoption world, not only for our children who are not yet home but also for 4 kids home including little man! And God has answered prayers - we have good friends right here in Camrose who have adopted and we are meeting new friends not to far away who have travelled this road before us in Ethiopia. All this week, amidst introduction, stories and incredible "God" moments, I have been thankful.

**My thoughts and prayers have been all over the map this week! There are many unknowns when you step forward in this adventure and I think my mind has asked so many questions to myself this week- does that make sense?:) What if...what happens when...how will they...what about... But then morning comes and I am reminded of God's faithfulness and goodness. And as I sat looking a new pictures of our boys this morning, I was reminded that my life is not my own - but rather to be used by Him as I follow Him. And right now, that means becoming a mom to seven!!

**I try hard to by honest on this blog, but sometimes it is hard. I am an oldest child, fairly independent, like planning and organizing and figuring things out. I like accomplishing tasks, checking things off a list...you probably get the picture!!Ha! Ultimately, I like to do things on my own.....

However - this journey, now that we have received the referral, is calling me to even deeper reliance on God and His provision & faithfulness. So for example...As you know, the referral for our sons happened crazy fast and I/we didn't have as much time we thought we would have to come up with a full financial plan and implement it. We have been able to save for a portion which we are very thankful... Three referrals means significantly more financial costs as there are more files so more paperwork, more flights etc...If you could please keep us in your prayers as we begin to navigate this and seek God as we plan and trust in His provision, we would greatly appreciate it. I just keep telling myself to breathe and remember that this is what we feel called to - i am sure some of you have been here:)

28“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Amen.

And of course, with all of these exciting but crazy things - I am home sick today. But it may be a blessing in disguise. Quietness, time with God, rest and rejuvenation, and time to think and plan. Have a good day everyone!

Blessings,

Candra