During high school and college, Donovan and I went on many international mission trips where we had the privilege of working with the local kiddos through vacation bible schools and other outreach opportunities. It was through these interactions that we both developed not only a love for children but also for other cultures as well. These experiences opened our eyes to the vast needs of these children that were going unmet, and we immediately wanted to take them all home.
When we started dating, we discussed in detail that we wanted the nations and adoption to be a part of our story. After having three bio kids of our own, we decided to start the adoption process in 2023. Unfortunately, international adoption is expensive. Without organizations like Katelyn’s Fund and the grants they provide, we would not have been able to go through this process. We feel very blessed that they are willing to partner with us to help unite children with their forever families!
This has been a long process (approaching two years), and we haven’t even been matched yet. It’s a process that teaches patience and trusting the Lord, trusting that He has a child(ren) that He’s preparing for our family and not rushing into a situation just because we can. We’ve learned through the numerous trainings and education we’ve gone through with our adoption agency about the trauma these kids have dealt with. We know that just by providing a “stable and loving home” doesn’t mean the kids won’t struggle to assimilate at times, or that it won’t take years of potentially therapy and prayer to help overcome some of the things these kids have experienced in their life. It is a process that not only requires prayer and trusting the Lord on the front end, but day to day through the kids life that they would feel and know they are loved, wanted, and cherished.
