In 1998, after trying several rounds of fertility drugs, 2 surgeries, numerous tests, months and months of temperature charts and endless sticks and pokes, the Doctor finally handed me an adoption packet on the way out of his office. I was devastated! At that moment, I felt like my life was over, my dreams were shattered and I certainly didn't want to think about adoption. What was seemingly so easy for everyone else was impossible for me. Little did I know at the time, that God already had my Motherhood planned and in motion. Not the way I planned, but a far better plan. A plan that I now feel completely humbled and honored to be chosen for.
Two trips half-way around the world, thousands of miles traveled, countless hours on stuffy airplanes, mountains of paperwork, language barriers, unidentifiable food, squat potties, etc. etc. - all of this a far cry from the pregnancy, labor and delivery I envisioned. My journey to Motherhood may not have taken the traditional route but make no mistake, it was a journey not for the faint of heart. But as all mothers say...."I would do it again in a heartbeat to have my child".
Shaelyn came to me as a tiny package of healing for a soul that had been ravished by the pain and grief of 9 yrs of infertility. Aiden came to me to fill a void I didn't even know I had. Both were treasures, handpicked by God to be mine. Not biologically mine, but MINE! The fierceness of my love for these two kids is hard to explain with words.
From the adoption of my two children, I have experienced a deeper understanding of God's love for us. What a blessing, what a gift, what a treasure!! Thank you God for such a wonderful plan. My reward for following Your plan has been beyond beautiful!
Waiting at the US Consulate Appt. in China holding Baby Shay!
Aiden and I - just a couple days home from China.
