Well, somewhat unanticipated, since we did go through 30 hours of training to become certified foster parents. On Dec. 14th at 5:30 a.m. the phone rang and it was our agency telling us they had a need for a home for some siblings. We told them we'd discuss it and call her back. The discussion mainly was along the lines of: Do we do Christmas as planned, or do we do these kids? Because we knew it would be an either/or situation. That day was Saturday and I had planned on spending the whole day making Christmas presents that I had begun--sewing, painting, nailing, etc. Paul was going to FINALLY finish the blanket chest that he had begun three years ago as a wedding present for Lindy and Nick (which has now become a family joke--Paul says that he's not the best woodworker in the world, but he's surely the slowest!).
But with the help of our Heavenly Father, we decided to call back and say yes. Spent the morning prepping the house and the kids--Adrianne gave up her bedroom and moved into the bedroom that was being used as the craft room, which meant that all that stuff went in my bedroom, which meant that I couldn't work on anything, but that was OK because I don't have time anymore anyway!
Christmas was unique and awesome and very Christ-like as we all learned a lesson in compassion.
So I'm way behind on everything (I sent some Christmas cards last week!) but it's been awesome. We don't know how this placement will turn out--you never do--but our goal is and has been for three years to adopt some kids to raise with Seth. It's in the hands of the Lord now, but in the meantime, we're trying to care for and nurture and heal these kids as best we can. Any prayers anyone can send our way would be great!
