tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57297559167442169332024-03-19T18:12:15.740-05:00Pittman AdoptionMatt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-58558561677632387462012-06-27T08:34:00.002-05:002012-06-27T08:34:30.320-05:00God Brought the Rains!!!!!!<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">Dear Family & Friends,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I imagine you’re thinking, “Wow, this is a super long letter!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyhow, I sincerely hope you hang in until the end because I think you’ll find your wait worthwhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of what I recall might be repetitive if you follow our blog, but please bear with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you know, Matt and I have been pursuing adoption for about a year now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have all been so encouraging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are very grateful for your generous financial support during our benefit concert last October.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your support means a lot to us because this adoption journey has been a mental and spiritual roller coaster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some days are thrilling because we’re focused on the prize: a beautiful child we can call our own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other days are filled with anxiety as I grow impatient and uncertain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While planning the benefit concert, Matt and I were very careful to wait for God’s direction and provision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please believe me when I say that MUCH prayer went into planning our concert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, from a human’s perspective, the concert was a failure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart was broken after the concert did not produce the attendance we hoped for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christian artists Jimmy Needham and Kimber Rising performed as if thousands were in attendance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those who came were very generous, enthusiastic, and supportive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We raised just enough money to cover our costs plus pay the first installment of our home study fee with Lifeline Adoption Agency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you knew how few were in attendance, you’d know that coming out ahead was a huge blessing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still, I was devastated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Immediately following the concert, I prayed every day asking God to show me where I went wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt humiliated after the concert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone had been so generous and yet we were still a long way from affording our international adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I began asking God, “Did I just imagine that you called Matt and I to adopt?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God spoke to me very sweetly in the weeks following the concert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He affirmed our calling to adopt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also told me He was not disappointed in us which was an enormous relief. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Satan loves to humiliate us, but God is gentle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He used my embarrassment to teach me humility and grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only our sweet Lord can humble us without humiliating us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As I reported in our blog, God has been very quiet since late October.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before October, God talked to me all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not in an audible voice, but nonetheless, He spoke to my heart regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since October, all God says is, “Wait; be patient.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me tell you, waiting on the Lord is exhausting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>On November 19, 2011, I wrote on our blog, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We do not know what God's plan is for our family. It's tough to be patient and faithful when you long for something this badly. I feel restless many days, but my love for God has not changed.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">I’ll be honest; I have not appreciated God’s imposed “quiet time.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many times I have begged God to hurry up and give us a baby!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m ashamed to admit that my sassy mouth has demanded that God speak to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Obviously the last several months have not been my finest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>God should be furious with me over my bad attitude and disrespect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But He is so tender with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love Him because He shows me so much mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clearly I needed some help, so I started to see my pastor (Keith) for counseling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keith said that God wants me to use this quiet time to reflect on His faithfulness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me tell you, there is MUCH to reflect on because God has been very faithful and good to me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Fast Forward:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had knee surgery this year after I tore my ACL coaching gymnastics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While in physical therapy, the same woman kept staring at me week after week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally, one day in late February, she motioned me over and said the most bizarre thing:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“You are going to think I am crazy, but God told me I’m suppose to talk to you.”</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>WOW!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That might freak you out but remember, I’d been begging God to speak to me for months!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish I could describe how elated I felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As it turns out, God told Jennifer to speak to me weeks prior, but it had taken her a while to work up the courage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Her message to me from God was this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>“You’re between the rains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your faith is being tested, but your rain is coming.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Super confusing, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jennifer had been participating in a Beth Moore Bible Study titled, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mercy Triumphs</i>, when God gave her this message for me (a stranger).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beth Moore was teaching from James, Chapter 5.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got home and immediately downloaded the lesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was blown away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<strong><u><span style="background: white; color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">James 5:7-11</span></u></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><br /></span></b><b><u><span style="background: white; color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">Be patient</span></u></b><b><span style="background: white; color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>See how the farmer waits</u> for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it,<u> until it receives the<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"> early and the late rains</span></strong></u>. <u>You also, be patient</u>. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand… Behold, <u>we consider those blessed who remained steadfast</u>. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how <u>the Lord is compassionate and merciful.</u></span></b><b><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span></u></b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Allow me to explain the passage, and I believe you'll see why I was so thrilled to hear from God!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the passage explains, the farmer patiently waits for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the <em><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">early and the late rains</span></em></i>. Think of <em><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">the rains</span></em> as an outpouring of God's spirit and presence. It's a time when He reveals Himself vividly and His presence is felt. Until late October, I definitely felt like I was <em><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">in the rains</span></em>.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">According to the agrarian calendar, the early rains come in late October to early November. <u>The <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">late rains</i> don't come until April/May</u>. The passage above describes the season <strong><i><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">in between</span></i></strong><em><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";"> the early and late rains</span></em> where the farmer must wait and be patient. During this time, the Farmer's trust (in God's provision) is tested because he so desperately depends on the <em><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting";">late rains</span></em> for his livelihood. Ironically, every mention of "early and late rains" in the Old Testament occurs in a context affirming the faithfulness of the Lord (Deut 11, Hosea 6). </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">While we are between rains, we may not hear God's voice, Beth explains. His presence may seem a million miles away. Wow! This is precisely how I've felt for the last several months. Since the “early rains” stopped (around late October/early November) I've wandered where God went. I've wondered why He doesn't speak to me like He use to. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Beth explains that there comes a time when the Word of God is tested in our lives. You cannot flood a crop and expect it to grow, right? Like Pastor Keith says, this "in-between" season is a time for reflection. It's time to remember and reflect on God's faithfulness and rehearse the things God has said to us and promised us.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This passage has been a HUGE blessing to me. If you know that your rain, your relief, is coming, then you are able to muster enough strength to remain steadfast and to persevere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told my women’s prayer group about it and they all got chills. Every Wednesday, these women have prayed that God would bring Matt and me a child of our own this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish you could hear their beautiful words as they pray with expectation that God will show up for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’ve even prayed that my “late rains” would come in April/May timeframe, just like the farmer’s late rains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God does enjoy symbolism, does He not?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such a specific prayer is worth a try, I think.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Well, I am thrilled beyond measure to report that <b>MATT AND I ARE PREGNANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time you read this, I will be three months pregnant, which I believed highly improbable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matt and I are shocked, but excited and very very happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly, I learned I was pregnant in early May, the same time farmers receive their late rains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A coincidence?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ABSOLUTELY NOT!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the way, I am due January 11, 2013.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is soooooooo great!</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">So what about our adoption?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our home study report has been completed, but our adoption agency has suspended our adoption until six months after we deliver our biological baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may come as a surprise, but postponing our adoption is saddening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my heart, I strongly believe God has called Matt and I to adopt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than that, my heart longs to build our family through adoption. My heart breaks for the millions of orphaned children who deserve a mom and dad to call their own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose God has a different time table in mind, but I will be so thrilled if/when God enables us to resume our adoption process.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Dearest family and friends, your financial support means a lot to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you gave generously, your intent was to further our adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We understand that and appreciate you so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, our adoption is on hold for a while, and it is really important to Matt and me that we return your donations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Some of you donated via check and others cash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you donated to our adoption with a check, please accept the enclosed money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may be tempted not to deposit it, but please know that it would give Matt and me much peace and satisfaction if you would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Unfortunately, we have no way of knowing who donated cash or how much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you will let us know what you donated, we will be pleased to send you a check.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever donations remain, we plan to give them to our church’s adoption ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hope you find this satisfactory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is still calling families to adoption because His heart is for the orphaned (James 1).</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Thank you for reading until the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you know how much Matt and I love you all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will continue to update everyone on our blog:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.pittmanadoption.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: blue;">www.PittmanAdoption.blogspot.com</span></span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is soooooooo good!</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots-of-Love,</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial Narrow", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arabic Typesetting"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Matt and Tiffany Pittman</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #215868; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">Wait on the LORD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be courageous, and He will strengthen your heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wait on the LORD! – Psalm 27:14</span></b><span style="color: #215868; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">.</span></div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-47049672789417621332012-04-17T12:30:00.001-05:002012-04-17T12:32:04.769-05:00His Mercies are New Every Morning!I was listening to Christian apologist, Ravi Zacharias, while he was sharing a poem by an unknown author. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><u><span style="color: #444444;">A New Sheet, A New Day</span></u></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">He came to my desk with a quivering lip,<br />
the lesson was done.<br />
“Have you a new sheet for me, dear teacher?<br />
I’ve spoiled this one.”<br />
I took his sheet, all soiled and blotted<br />
and gave him a new one all unspotted.<br />
And into his tired heart I cried,<br />
“Do better now, my child.”</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">I came to the throne with a trembling heart;<br />
the day was done.<br />
“Have you a new day for me, dear Master?<br />
I’ve spoiled this one.”<br />
He took my day, all soiled and blotted<br />
and gave me a new one all unspotted.<br />
And into my tired heart he cried,<br />
“Do better now, my child.”</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Lamentations 3:22-23</u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="color: #351c75;">My mind keeps reflecting on [my affliction] and I become depressed. This is what comes to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's gracious love we are not consumed, <u>since His compassions never end. They are new every morning - great is Your faithfulness!</u></span></strong></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>I love this poem because it reminds me of my favorite verses from Lamentations. Matt and I are still adopting and this season continues to be very difficult (spiritually and mentally). My mind often fixates on the challenges and I become impatient and depressed. But my God's compassion NEVER fails. Just as the King David describes in Psalms 30: 5: <em>Weeping may lodge for the night, but shouts of joy come in the morning!</em> His mercies are new every morning... I get a new day!<br />
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If you've cried yourself to sleep, I pray you've experienced God's mercy in the morning... that assurance He gives you that it's a new day, and He has not left your side! <br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Poem Reference: Author anonymous, “A New Leaf,” James G. Lawson, compiler, The Best Loved Religious Poems (Grand Rapids: Fleming H. Revell, 1961).</span></span><br />
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</div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-22667183029446232602012-03-07T21:24:00.003-06:002012-03-08T14:40:19.449-06:00Jimmy Needham - If I Ever Needed Grace, It's Now!I am such a fan of <strong>Jimmy Needham</strong>! He is clearly INSANELY gifted by God. But my admiration for him and his gift go deeper. He was the headliner at our adoption benefit concert which afforded me the chance to get to know him better. Wow, I wish everyone could spend at least an hour with him! He is special. I believe Jimmy, like King David, is a man after God's heart. I am thankful for him and the ministry God is giving him. I get a bit teary-eyed when I think about what his music means to me. Lord, please continue to protect and develop Jimmy's ministry.<br />
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Jimmy is releasing his new album.... but I'd like to give you a tease of what's to come! The single is titled, <strong><em>"If I Ever Needed Grace."</em></strong> Go to his website, and download his single and pre-order his album.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jimmyneedham.com/">http://www.jimmyneedham.com/</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mpZPycrWKWk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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<b>Jimmy Needham - If I Ever Needed Grace</b> <br />
A lifetime of empty days <br />
A hungry heart was desperate for a meal <br />
I feasted on the bread of life <br />
Forgiveness pierced me like a knife <br />
Your breath filled up my lungs and I could feel <br />
I was broke and all I could say was<br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s now <br />
You are strong when I am weak, somehow <br />
I am weak enough to see <br />
I need You to cover me <br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s now<br />
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I met the woman of my dreams <br />
Wanted to give her everything <br />
Then fear came like a thief in the night <br />
But my journal pages prophesy <br />
That one day I’d make her my bride <br />
Soon my best friend was wearing white <br />
With our lives ahead all I could say was<br />
<br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s now <br />
You are strong when I am weak, somehow <br />
I am weak enough to see <br />
I need You to cover me <br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s now<br />
In every joy and pain <br />
Whatever comes my way <br />
God I need Your grace<br />
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Nine short months ’til she arrived <br />
Little hands and lion’s eyes <br />
And I’m so scared I don’t have what it takes <br />
But I hear Your voice Sunday morning <br />
Father give me eyes to see <br />
All I need’s the power of Your Name<br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s now <br />
You are strong when I am weak, somehow <br />
I am weak enough to see <br />
I need You to cover me <br />
If I ever needed grace <br />
If I ever needed grace <br />
If I ever needed grace, it’s nowMatt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-26179804535612139842012-03-04T21:27:00.001-06:002012-03-05T09:24:12.837-06:00God Spoke... My rain is coming! This post will be especially long, but I haven't written anything for almost 3 months. I want to tell you how God finally spoke to me last week. I have to tell you, He chose a somewhat bizarre method to deliver His message. Bear with me as I quickly give the background.<br />
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Beginning late last October, God became very quiet. Before then, God talked to me all the time. Not in an audible voice, but nonetheless, He spoke to my heart regularly. He has been quiet for over four months now and I have been so sad and defeated by this "season."<br />
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I have been heartbroken over our stalled adoption for months now. I have asked God what to do. I've asked Him for direction. I've begged Him to speak to me. But He says nothing. The only thing I hear, somewhere in my spirit, is a small voice that says, "Wait. Be patient." Let me tell you, <em>waiting</em> is exhausting. <br />
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I had knee surgery in January after I tore my ACL coaching gymnastics. Consequently, I've been going to physical therapy for the past couple months. I kept seeing this same blond hair woman at my appointments. She'd smile or sometimes say, "Hello." To be honest, she sort of looked at me funny... like she recognized me but couldn't place me. <br />
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Last week, she motioned me over and said the strangest thing: <em> "You're going to think I'm crazy, but God told me I'm suppose to talk to you." </em> WOW! That was the greatest news I had heard in the longest time. I had been begging God to talk to me - I wish I could describe how elated I was that He was finally going to speak!<br />
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I told her,<em> "I'm a Christian too! And if God told you to talk to me, I definitely want to hear what He has to say!"</em> As it turns out, God told her to speak to me weeks ago, but she was too afraid. She had finally worked up the nerve. I was so anxious to hear what God had told her. Unfortunately, God just told her to talk to me... there was no specific message.<br />
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I was sort of disappointed, but we decided to have lunch together and just visit. I learned her name, which is Jennifer, and much more. We had a great time. I told Jennifer about some of my favorite Bible teachers. If you don't know this already, I am a HUGE fan of Chuck Missler, Ravi Zacharias, and Beth Moore. As it turns out, Jennifer was unfamiliar with Beth Moore.<br />
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We parted after lunch but agreed we'd meet up again next week. Well, a few days later, Jennifer sends me a bizarre text that says: <strong><em> "You're between the rains. Your faith is being tested. Your rain is coming. -This is what God told me to tell you."</em></strong> <br />
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I was so confused. Jennifer explained that she had gone to a Beth Moore Bible study with a friend on Wednesday night. It was Beth's newest Bible study called, <em>Mercy Triumphs</em> which is a Bible study on the book of <em>James</em>. Beth was in the 7th lesson teaching from James 5. I was desperate to learn what the message meant, but I needed the context. So, I went online and downloaded the lesson to listen for myself. I WAS BLOW AWAY!!!!<br />
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Below is the passage that Beth was teaching from:<br />
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<strong><u><span style="background-color: white; color: #0c343d;">James 5:7-11</span></u></strong><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #0c343d;"><u>Be patient</u>, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. <u>See how the farmer waits</u> for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it<u>, until it receives the<strong> early and the late rains</strong></u>. <u>You also, be patient</u>. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold, <u>we consider those blessed who remained steadfast</u>. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0c343d;"><span style="color: black;"> Allow me to explain the passage, and I believe you'll see why I was so thrilled to hear from God.</span></span><br />
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As the passage explains, the farmer patiently waits for the <em>early and late rains</em>. Think of <em>the rains</em> as an outpouring of God's spirit and presence. It's a time when he reveals Himself vividly and His presence is felt. Until late October, I definitely felt like I was <em>in the rains</em>.<br />
According to the agrarian calendar, the early rains come in late October to early November. The late rains don't come until April/May. The passage above describes the season <em><strong>in between</strong> the early and late rains</em> where the farmer must be patient. During this time, the Farmer's trust (in God's provision) is tested because he so desperately depends on the <em>late rains</em> for his livelihood. Ironically, every mention of "early and late rains" in the Old Testament occurs in a context affirming the faithfulness of the Lord (Deut 11, Hosea 6). <br />
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While we are between rains, we may not hear God's voice, Beth explains. His presence may seem a million miles away. Wow! This is precisely how I've felt for the last several months. I've wandered where God went. I've wandered why He doesn't speak to me like He did. <br />
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Beth explains that there comes a time when the Word of God is tested in our lives. You cannot flood a crop and expect it to grow! My pastor, Keith, says this "in-between" season is a time for reflection. It's time to remember and reflect on God's faithfulness and rehearse the things God has said to us.<br />
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This passage is such a blessing to me. God is telling me that I'm<em> in between my early and late rains</em>. He says that I am to be patient and remain steadfast. And just as Jennifer said, <strong>my rain is coming!</strong> <br />
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I am so thankful that God sent this message to me through Jennifer. What if she had not been faithful to speak to me that day in physical therapy? If you knew what these words mean to me, you'd know how tragic that would be. I am so thankful for Jennifer's obedience.<br />
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I don't know how long until my late rains come. I miss God's voice so very very much. I will be so glad to hear His voice again. But until then, just like the farmer, I will be patient and remain steadfast. And thanks to Jennifer, I am energized to wait as long as it takes, because my rains are coming!Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-57761950468271511742011-12-02T10:37:00.000-06:002011-12-02T10:37:47.196-06:00What I want for ChristmasWith Christmas approaching, I am especially sad. I think of all the children who still need a mom and dad. Some are in an institution or in a foster home, others are living on the streets. All they want for Christmas is someone to call their own... a mom whom they are convinced loves them... a dad whom they can trust. <br />
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I want God to use Matt and I to love a child who needs to be loved and cared for. We pray about what to do... Should we continue the journey to Russia (which is VERY expensive), adopt domestically, or foster parent? I know in my heart that God will honor any adoption route we embark on. However, we still want to hear from Him before we take a definitive step in any direction.<br />
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I ask God what to do. He tells me to wait and be patient... I'm not sure what He means. Does that mean He is orchestrating something behind the scenes? Is it ok for us to look into foster parenting? Should we foster a baby... or should we foster an older child?<br />
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I get angry with God because He seems to be in no hurry. I feel very hurried. I feel VERY burdened by the number of orphans and the challenges they face. Matt and I want to be adoptive parents so badly. I wish God would tell us what He's doing. <br />
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Can I tell you what I want? I want to be a mom. I want to build a large family through adoption. I want to have four or more kids! I want to tell my children that they matter very much. I want to tell them that though many people have failed them, my LORD will not fail them. I want to teach them Math, Literature, History, and Logic (I hate science, so they are on their own in Chemistry and Biology). I want to help them learn their purpose in life, whatever it may be. I want to encourage them and make sure they know how valuable they are. I want to honor their biological families and encourage our child to love and honor them too.<br />
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If feels good to write down what I want. Gods is well acquainted with what I want and need. I want to be faithful and have a good attitude. Please pray that God will tell us something that is comforting. Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-42768840533899713312011-11-19T11:46:00.000-06:002011-11-19T11:46:18.602-06:00Still WaitingI'm sorry I've taken so long to update our blog. Matt and I are still praying and listening for God. We have begun to investigate some different adoption routes (like foster parenting). We listen closely for direction; He still says to wait and be patient. <br />
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We do not know what God's plan is for our family. It's tough to be patient and faithful when you long for something this badly. I feel restless many days, but my love for God has not changed. He is the most spectacular thing I know. He deserves all my trust because He has proven Himself to me countless times. <br />
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I love Jesus very much.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-12320421839002868522011-10-12T10:16:00.004-05:002011-10-15T11:56:44.574-05:00Concert and Prayers<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Matt and I thoroughly enjoyed our time of worship with everyone at the concert. But to be honest, I must also admit that my heart is broken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our concert did not produce the attendance we had hoped for or expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many have opinions as to why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Well-inteneded as they are, </span>I am much too vulnerable to hear them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not want to believe anything that is not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matt and I need to hear directly from our God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is He teaching us something?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did we miss something?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did we do nothing wrong and this is just part of His plan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I am very broken right now and cannot offer much at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I know right now is this:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The artists (Jimmy Needham & Kimber Rising) were INCREDIBLE.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They performed as if we had 10,000 in attendance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They offered MUCH encouragement to Matt and I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our lives are blessed because of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray that God drastically grows their ventures, because they truly love and serve our LORD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Those who came were EXTREMELY generous. And it was obvious that they had a blast and left blessed. I hope you know how very grateful we are for your support and encouragement.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is not one doubt in my mind that Matt and I are adopting. We aren’t adopting out of compulsion but because we <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">desperately want to!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>I am devastated right now, and I’m afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have no idea what God is trying to tell Matt and I … I have no idea how we will pay for this adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Right now, we are standing still and waiting for God to tell us something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> In the meantime, I've been praying and reading His Word. Still, nothing fascinates or comforts me like Bible study. I am thankful that I hear Him when I read my Bible.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Will you please pray for us?</span></div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-11649585943494041532011-09-26T14:51:00.001-05:002011-09-28T17:01:34.166-05:00Will I not equip you?I just got back from Manhattan where I sat for the CFE exam (Certified Fraud Examiner). I've been studying for this certification for a few months now and am pleased to report that I am officially a CFE!<br />
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Now my energy is again focused on promoting our benefit concert. The auditorium will seat 1400 people. We have done everything we can think of to promote the event (emailing hundreds of local pastors and ministry leaders, Facebooking, interviewing, soliciting sponsors, and etc.) But what if our efforts are not enough? What if only a few hundred people come? Our community has been so supportive, yet fears still manage to creep in.<br />
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I have no idea how God will provide the money we need to finish our adoption. The journey ahead is so exciting, but very scary. Sometimes, I feel perfectly peaceful, other times I feel like I've gone crazy. I often find myself begging God to grow my faith. It's shameful considering how faithful He has been to Matt and I. God says the most comforting things to me. A few days ago, He asked me a series of questions: <em>Tiffany, have I not called you to adopt? Do I not have a child planned for you and Matt? Do you think that I will not equip you and Matt with everything you need?</em><br />
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Wow! God will equip us... He is equipping us. I don't know how He will pull this off, but I am reminded of His faithfulness. I love Him so much.<br />
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I want the BJHS auditorium filled to capacity, but not becuase our adoption depends on it. This is why: I <strong>know</strong> that God is coming to our concert... I mean, the most famous person there has ever been is coming to our concert!! His name is, Jesus; and I'm telling you, He wouldn't miss this concert for anything! God is going to have a blast becuase we are all gathered in one place, at one time, to worship Him! And He deserves all of our praise. <br />
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Our adoption is in His hands. Our concert is in His hands too.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-28191567188435450752011-09-14T18:46:00.001-05:002011-09-14T18:47:22.424-05:00Benefit Concert Opener - KIMBER RISING!!!I am so thrilled to tell you that <span style="font-size: large;">KIMBER RISING</span> will be opening for <span style="font-size: large;">JIMMY NEEDHAM</span>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kimberrising.com/">http://www.kimberrising.com/</a><br />
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Sisters, Amanda and Brianna Wilcox and Emille Crawford have performed over 300 concerts and toured with the likes of <strong>Todd Agnew, Building 429 and 33Miles</strong>. They’ve also opened for <strong>Mandisa, Natalie Grant, LeCrae, David Crowder Band, among other respected artists.</strong><br />
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Be prepared to hear STUNNING harmonies!!! It was really hard for me to choose the right video to entice you, but I settled on this one because I LOVE them <em>a capella</em> style. This impromptu performance is not their studio version, but I want you to hear them sing with no instrunment other than the one God gave them!<br />
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Introducing <strong>Kimber's Rising's</strong> origianl song, <em>Soon </em><br />
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<em>"Hold on just a little bit longer <br />
Even though the longing in your heart gets stronger <br />
Soon now, it's gonna be soon now, yeah." </em></div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lord,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">You know the longing in my heart better than anyone. We just want to love the child You planned for us. Sometimes I let anxiety overwhelm me... and then Your peace comes flooding in. Thank you so much for giving us Jimmy Needham and Kimber Rising. Their support, everyone's support, is an answer to prayer. I can hold on <em>just a little bit longer</em> because You will unite us with our little ones <em>soon</em>. You are so good to Matt and I.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I Love you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tiff </span><br />
<div align="center"></div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-51845659467545142412011-09-10T20:22:00.001-05:002011-09-14T18:50:06.655-05:00Benefit Concert with JIMMY NEEDHAM!Please go to our Benefit Concert tab to learn more about our fundraiser with Christian recording artist, JIMMY NEEDHAM!!!! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TtBOwJu5kLlSdQnSKceKUXz3qgMVXz8s7Y9tyG7J7krusIMcl1wzksKfz-Ro98j6Mw_sOFLV84pVVnfIWnnvap1SGheu9HU2uNsR85YJwo-lOIgUA0b83g9NPvbkKeO-_ll5awS655xk/s1600/ConcertFlyer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TtBOwJu5kLlSdQnSKceKUXz3qgMVXz8s7Y9tyG7J7krusIMcl1wzksKfz-Ro98j6Mw_sOFLV84pVVnfIWnnvap1SGheu9HU2uNsR85YJwo-lOIgUA0b83g9NPvbkKeO-_ll5awS655xk/s320/ConcertFlyer2.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my favorites! <em>Unfailing Love</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/oK4jdexjgz4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-2090517760679470082011-08-24T09:50:00.000-05:002011-08-24T09:50:13.842-05:00Benefit Concert: Jimmy Needham!!!!!<a href="http://www.JimmyNeedham.com"></a><br />
I am THRILLED to announce that Christian singer/songwriter, JIMMY NEEDHAM, is performing at a benefit concert to support our adoption! Matt and I consider this such a miracle and an answer to prayer. I am such a HUGE fan of his! His style of music is very unique to him. Many of you are very familiar with Jimmy Needham, as you hear his music on Christian stations all day long. Those of you who are not yet familiar, I am CERTAIN you will become an instant fan!<br />
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The concert will be on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8th at Bob Jones High School Auditorium. I will share more details as they are solidified.<br />
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HELP Marketing:<br />
I am preparing a promo video (roughly 2-2.5 minutes). I should have it completed by Sept 5th. Also, I am designing some flyers. I am going to attempt to get some local radio stations involved<br />
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HOW YOU CAN HELP:<br />
1.) Please pray for our event. Pray that we are stuffed to capacity (1400 guests). Pray that God will use Jimmy Needham’s music to draw people closer to Him. <br />
2.) Attend our event J<br />
3.) Pass out flyers & show promo: If you live within 100 miles of Huntsville AL, and are willing, will you please email me your contact info? I would like to email (or mail) you our concert flyer and our promo video. You could share this information with your church, workplace, friends, and families. <br />
<br />
Email me at PittmanAdoption@gmail.com<br />
Please include: Name, email, phone number, and mailing address. Also, let me know if you prefer to receive the information by mail, email, or both.<br />
<br />
4.) Email me with any marketing ideas you may have (perhaps you have some contacts that would be interested in helping us market our event)<br />
5.) SPONSORS: We would welcome any person or business who is willing to help us sponsor this event. We would also be proud to express our appreciation for our sponsors at the concert. Please email me if you are interested.<br />
6.) IF YOU HAVE ADOPTED, please email me a picture of your family. I would like to use these “success stories” in our slide show.<br />
<br />
Final Thoughts:<br />
Right now, we are thinking that the concert will be a non-ticketed event. It will likely begin at 7:30 or 8pm, with doors opening one hour prior. Our church will be accepting donations on our behalf at the door, therefore donations will be tax deductible (our church will pay our adoption agency directly). Lastly, we have contacted another artist to be the “opening act.” I will let you know more if this person is able to join us (say a prayer, please). <br />
<br />
Finally, GOD IS GOOD! I am overwhelmed by His faithfulness to us.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-72713847597664380182011-08-23T20:10:00.000-05:002011-08-23T20:10:29.070-05:00DefenderI’ve been reading about the plight of Russia’s orphans… the reviews are mixed. Some of these children’s circumstances are horrific, others seem to be at least adequately cared for. BUT, regardless of the level of care, these children have nothing that <em>belongs</em> to them. Even the clothing they wear does not belong to them, much less a mommy or daddy to call their own.<br />
<br />
I don’t know who God is giving us… I don’t even know if we are getting a boy or a girl. Maybe He will give us one of each! :) I desperately want to hold them and tell them that <em>Matt and I belong to them</em>, <em>forever</em>. In the meantime, I pray. I pray that God protects them. I pray that He gives them pleasant dreams. I pray that He makes them unafraid; I hope He whispers the most comforting words to them. I hope He tells them that we are coming.<br />
<br />
There is a BEAUTIFUL song by singer/songwriter, Chris McClarney, called, <em>Defender</em>. This song echoes everything I know to be true about God. When I am afraid or worried, I can lay my cares at His feet and fix my eyes on Him. All the hopes Matt and I have for our little one are hidden in Him; and He is our Little One’s Defender.<br />
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I hope you will take time to listen to Chris McClarney (lyrics are pasted below)!<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ouFAuaQhnU">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ouFAuaQhnU</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Resting in Your promise <br />
I will rest within the knowledge that You care <br />
I put my trust in You <br />
Deep within the darkness <br />
Though my enemies surround I will not fear <br />
I put my trust in You<br />
<br />
And when I don't know what to do <br />
I will fix my eyes on You<br />
<br />
You’re our defender <br />
I hide my hope in You <br />
You are the loving arms my broken heart can run to <br />
I will remember <br />
That there is nothing You can't do <br />
For You are God, You are good <br />
And I surrender <br />
You're our defender<br />
<br />
You are strong when I am weakest <br />
You're the peace that passes everything I see <br />
I put my trust in You <br />
I'm surrendering completely <br />
Laying all my cares here at Your feet <br />
I put my trust in You<br />
<br />
A mighty fortress is our God <br />
I will not fear, I will not fear <br />
Safe and secure here in Your love <br />
I will not fear, I will not fear<br />
<br />
Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-26933761871678464052011-08-17T19:17:00.000-05:002011-08-17T19:17:09.125-05:00Direction... and Benefit ConcertBob Jones High School has agreed to host a benefit concert for us. They have suggested the dates of October 7th or 8th (Friday or Saturday). I am very grateful for my former high school.<br />
<br />
I'm looking for musical talent for our concert...obviously I'm under a time crunch. It's especially difficult to find talent when you are planning a benefit concert and therefore unable to pay the artists what they are most definitely worth. I'm asking God to give us direction... and even a miracle.<br />
<br />
I still get very embarrassed every time a write a new post. Some posts embarrass me more than others, and I find myself wishing no one would read this blog. I'm ashamed to admit this since you all have been so supportive and encouraging. I know this: God is more concerned with fulfilling His purpose than He is about catering to our comfort level, isn't He? LOL :)<br />
<br />
I am feeling a lot of mixed emotions. I feel worried and anxious about making the right decisions for our adoption (i.e. the right agency, funding...). But, I always feel grateful and joyful. I am profoundly grateful that God has a baby planned for Matt and I. I feel overjoyed every time I think of pur little one. <br />
<br />
Sometimes in life, you feel like you are just stumbling along. Maybe you feel out of place or misunderstood. Ever since God revealed adoption to us, I feel like I'm exactly where I'm suppose to be, and doing exactly what I'm supposed to be doing. I know that our baby is worth whatever challenges await us. Of course, God gives me the confidence to say this. With Him, EVERYTHING is made possible!Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-29710293397337044562011-08-15T10:21:00.000-05:002011-08-15T10:21:44.686-05:00Help! Finding the Right Agency - Russia LicensedOur home study is nearly complete. We are just waiting for a couple of forms to arrive and the final report will be signed. Since our agency is not licensed in Russia, we have to find a different agency to conduct the remainder of our international adoption. By the way, we have LOVED using Lifeline for our contract home study (www.lifelineadoption.org). We have nothing but glowing things to say about Lifeline, and we would definitely use them if we were going to adopt from Ukraine.<br />
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Below is a list of US agencies licensed in Russia (none of which are in Alabama, sadly). We feel overwhelmed. We have requested information packets from many of them, and tried to read reviews online. Some of the reviews are mixed, therefore, we are having a difficult time deciding. Any assistance or reviews that you can provide will be MUCH appreciated.<br />
List of Adoption Agencies accredited with the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation as of April 20, 2011:<br />
1. ABC Adoption Services, Inc.<br />
2. Adopt-A-Child, Inc.<br />
3. Adoption Associates, Inc.<br />
4. Adoption Center of Washington<br />
5. Adoption Options<br />
6. Adoptions Together, Inc.<br />
7. Alaska International Adoption Agency<br />
8. Alliance for Children<br />
9. American International Adoption Agency, Inc.<br />
10. Americans for International Aid and Adoption<br />
11. Beacon House Adoption Services, Inc.<br />
12. Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services, Inc.<br />
13. Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, Inc.<br />
14. Children's Home Society and Family Services<br />
15. Children's Hope International<br />
16. Christian World Adoption<br />
17. Creative Adoptions, Inc.<br />
18. DOVE Adoptions International, Inc.<br />
19. European Adoption Consultants<br />
20. Families Thru International Adoption<br />
21. Frank Adoption Center<br />
22. Florence Crittenton League of Lowell<br />
23. Gladney Center for Adoption<br />
24. Global Adoption Services, Inc.<br />
25. Good Hope Adoption Services, Inc.<br />
26. Hand in Hand<br />
27. Happy Families International Center<br />
28. Homestudies and Adoption Placement Services, Inc.<br />
29. International Assistance Group<br />
30. International Christian Adoptions<br />
31. Life Adoption Services, Inc.<br />
32. Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, Inc.<br />
33. New Hope Christian Services<br />
34. Small World Adoption Foundation of Missouri, Inc.<br />
35. Wide Horizons for Children<br />
36. World Association for Children and Parents (WACAP)<br />
37. World Child International<br />
38. World Links<br />
39. Wyoming Children’s Society<br />
<br />
<br />
Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-79039036828887594862011-08-13T09:13:00.001-05:002011-08-13T09:33:34.812-05:00Russia...Benefit ConcertMatt and I have been praying about where God wants us to go for our adoption. We feel very drawn to Easter Europe, and therefore feel like we will ultimately go to Russia. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.frua.org/countries/russia">http://www.frua.org/countries/russia</a><br />
About Russia, Source: Families for Russian and Ukrainian Adoptions (FRUA)<br />
<br />
I began researching agencies in the US that are licensed in Russia (there is only abut 30). I felt overwhelmed until I ran across an agency in Cheyenne, WY.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wyomingcs.org/">http://www.wyomingcs.org/</a><br />
<br />
Matt and I were in Cheyenne for 3+ years while he was serving in the Air Force. I called the agency and was very impressed with their Russian adoption program. Ironically, I was reading about the Board of Directors and saw the name, <em>Janet Taylor</em>. I led a Bible Study in Cheyenne that Janet attended; naturally, I called Janet to get some more information, and she had glowing things to say about their program. I'm very anxious to get started with them. <br />
<br />
<u>Benefit Concert:</u><br />
It's about $40,000 to adopt from Russia after all relevant fees and traveling expenses; While Matt and I saving very hard, we will still have to do some fund raising.<br />
<br />
We are in the midst of planning a benefit concert. Mr. Craft, the AMAZING Performing Arts teacher, is allowing us to rent the BJHS Auditorium. He has been very encouraging and supportive, and I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
We are looking for a weekend date in September or October. I will keep you posted as I learn more details. Keep us in your prayers, please.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-50687607406763633702011-08-01T17:47:00.001-05:002011-08-01T17:52:13.819-05:00Knowing and MissingI told God that I love Him today. I think I heard Him tell me that He<em> misses</em> me. What a strange thing for God to say. After all, He knows me intimately and perfectly already. I have been pondering what this could mean, and came across this verse: <br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple;"><em> <u> 1 Corinthians 13:12</u> </em></span><br />
<em><span style="color: purple;"> For <strong>now</strong> we see in a <strong>mirror</strong> <strong>dimly</strong>, but <strong>then face to face</strong>. Now I know in part; <strong>then</strong> I shall know fully, even as I have been<strong> fully known</strong>.</span> </em><br />
<br />
Ancient mirrors were made from polished metal (such as bronze), and thus one's reflection was more “dim” than in modern mirrors. “Face to face” references Christ’s return. Additionally, the OT uses the phrase “face to face,” to refer to seeing God personally; cf. Gen. 32:30; Ex. 33:11; Deut. 5:4; 34:10; Judg. 6:22; Ezek. 20:35.<br />
<br />
God longs for the day when I will be with Him, face to face; the day He brings me to my forever home. <em>Then</em>, I will know Him<em> fully</em>, without my humanly, earthly, limitations. I know that I miss God, but in my earthly knowledge, I cannot imagine what knowing Him <em>fully</em> will be like. The amazing-ness is incomprehensible to me. But, God knows what it will be like for He and I, and He longs for it. <br />
<br />
The God of all that is, or ever was, longs to be with me! It makes me cry when I think about how much He loves me. I miss HIM very much. The fact that I am not with Him, face to face, means that His plans for me on Planet Earth are not yet complete. I can’t help but think of the son or daughter He has planned for us. I miss you little one; I am so anxious to meet you and get to know you. I don’t know you yet, but my Lord knows you very well.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-82722734520771016092011-07-20T10:19:00.003-05:002011-07-20T19:25:37.298-05:00God's Provision and GymnasticsMatt and I are still waiting for God to tell us where to go to adopt.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><em><u>Matthew 6:34</u></em></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><em>So do not be anxious about <strong>tomorrow</strong>; for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. <strong>Each day</strong> has enough trouble of its own.</em></span><br />
<br />
Waiting on the Lord each day is VERY hard when you want something this badly. It’s hard to wait on God’s direction when you don’t know how many more <em>tomorrows</em> are in store before He tells you the next step. This verse from Matthew is very fitting. I hope God speaks up soon because I am becoming increasingly tempted to coerce friends and strangers into giving me one of their children. LOL! I’m definitely kidding. We are trying to put together some fundraisers, so I will keep you posted.<br />
<br />
I have been feeling very sad and anxious, so I went to see my former gymnastics coach, Debbie Santos. She began coaching me when I 6 yrs old; I adore and love this woman more than I can convey. My gymnastics career ended the summer before my senior year when I had my second back surgery. I broke my back in a car accident, not gymnastics. I have been coaching competitive gymnastics off and on for years, and Debbie has always extended an open invitation to return.<br />
<br />
My intention last night was only to visit my gymnasts and talk to my former coach. From the instant I walked into the gym, I was happy… I felt like I belonged here. My girls were stretching and I was desperately trying to watch rather than correct their form. It was impossible. I approached Debbie and asked her if she could use an additional coach. She answered with an emphatic YES! I could not begin coaching last night… I was still in my business suit and heels. BUT, I will begin coaching the competitive girls on Tuesday and Thursday evenings!<br />
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<em><u>Philippians 4:19</u></em><br />
<em>And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.</em><br />
<em>I am overjoyed. God knows that I “need” to parent, and coaching is the next best thing! God supplied the avenue that will fulfill me while I wait for His direction on where to go for our adoption. I am in love with my God; His provision is always perfect. </em><br />
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Please visit my gymnastics academy: <a href="http://www.southernstatesgymnastics.com/">http://www.southernstatesgymnastics.com/</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZZc2_GQskVDKICcb1DFJmm4qRyQnKoZCISaJKpPYAVIGjmE81Ziw1yYCLSsOFPkSpQYwEX9T5lpZpXoDU097gTbIs5RLScKCK38aVreyifPmB1Ul5R8bhSt5WJ-M9AwLCPBoHX2mWXFG/s1600/SSG+2010-2011+Team+Picture.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZZc2_GQskVDKICcb1DFJmm4qRyQnKoZCISaJKpPYAVIGjmE81Ziw1yYCLSsOFPkSpQYwEX9T5lpZpXoDU097gTbIs5RLScKCK38aVreyifPmB1Ul5R8bhSt5WJ-M9AwLCPBoHX2mWXFG/s320/SSG+2010-2011+Team+Picture.png" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I will likely post videos and pictures of them in the near future!Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-26724515872876146972011-07-12T22:03:00.002-05:002011-07-12T22:09:56.783-05:00To the Birth MothersA Lifeline social worker (Margo) said something to Matt and I that I have not forgotten. She said that adoption is almost always "crisis oriented...bittersweet." I had never considered this. She continued, explaining that no mother <em>wants</em> to carry and deliver her baby only to give him or her over to a practical stranger. Is this not especially true in the U.S., where abortions are relatively inexpensive and an available option? In other words, if a mother carries her baby to term, she more than likely wanted to keep her baby!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>Side Note:</u> Please understand, I don't mean to diminish or offend the mother who has chosen abortion. I can't imagine such a decision is ever entered into lightly. I also imagine that such a decision is intensely painful... and a host of other conflicting emotions. My sincere prayer is that such a mother finds answers, forgiveness, acceptance, and peace from the man who loves her more than his own life. Jesus.</span><br />
<br />
My intent is only to highlight my new admiration for birth parents. I was, admittedly, very naive about the heartache and challenges birth mothers face. They may endure pressure from their partner (spouse or boyfriend) to abort their baby. Perhaps the mother is in an abusive relationship. Maybe she feels pressure to keep a baby she feels she cannot adequately care for. The birth mother may be an adolescent; therefore, she may endure stares and judgements from her peers as she carries her baby to term. Sadly, she may desperately want to keep her baby but cannot afford to take care of him or her. As I consider the possible circumstances, I too have con<span style="background-color: yellow;">cluded</span> that the adoption decision is almost always crisis oriented.<br />
<br />
I now have much respect for birth mothers. I think the mother who carries and delivers her baby is very brave. <br />
<br />
Through the miracle of adoption, God is giving Matt and I a child. However, it has not gone unnoticed that our child belonged to someone before he or she belonged to me. I can only think of a couple words to describe how this bittersweet journey makes me feel: <em>Inexplicably grateful</em>, and even these words feel wholly inadequate.<br />
<br />
As the church, the body of Christ, we need to seek-out opportunities to help our expectant and/or struggling mothers. We need to come along side them. We need to serve them and love them the way Christ loved us, and gave Himself up for us. I'm not certain what this will look like in your life; perhaps you will assist financially, offer counseling, or who knows? Maybe <em>you</em> will one day adopt!?!<br />
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HE called Matt and I to adoption... and I promise you, I didn't see this one coming! But I am so so grateful that He did!Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-45478362071269945202011-07-09T09:51:00.002-05:002011-07-11T19:10:12.991-05:00Psalm 130:5-6 - "The Waiting Room"<div class="bodytext">Our final home study interview is complete! There is nothing else left for Matt and I to do except begin the international part of our adoption, which means we apply to an adoption agency licensed in our desired country. The problem is that we don't know where God wants us to go... Do we go to Ukraine for a 5-6 yr old? Russia for a baby? Or somewhere else entirely? Until God tells us the next step, we are at a complete standstill. Ever since Ukraine passed new and unexpected legislation, we have been asking God where He will have us go...</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">I have been heartbroken for the last few weeks, to be honest. I'm ready to charge through and immediately start preparing our dossier for international adoption. I've begged God for answers, but all He says is "Wait for Me." What? Why wait? You've planned a child for us who is already out there... why are we waiting? </div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">I came across a verse in Psalms this morning:</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext"><em><u><span style="color: #741b47;">Psalm 130:5-6</span></u></em></div><div class="bodytext"><em><span style="color: #741b47;">“I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope. My soul waits for the Lord More than the watchmen for the morning; Indeed, more than the watchmen for the morning,” </span></em></div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">The psalmist is comparing <em>waiting expectantly on the Lord</em> to <em>night guards of the city who wait for sunrise. </em>Since a seige was more probable under the cloak of darkness, the night guards had much cause to be especially vigilant. They watched in anticipation of the coming dawn when they would be released from duty. The coming of the dawn was certain, but not without the passage of time. </div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">Waiting on the Lord inevitably means enduring some passage of time. That waiting includes the concept of <em>hope</em> is why the Hebrew word <i>qavah</i> is sometimes translated “hope” or “look expectantly,” and why <i>yacha,</i> which means “to wait” can mean either “wait” or “hope.”</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">Matt and I are waiting for God's direction... He gave us His word that He is going to give us a child. This is His promise to Matt and I, and our hope is rooted in the fact that God has always been faithful to us.</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">God told me this morning that, <strong>Waiting means <em>confident expectation</em>...</strong> Matt and I may not know where our little one is, but we can confidently expect that God will keep His word, and reveal all at the right time.</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext"><u><span style="color: #741b47;"><em>Philippians 4:6</em></span></u></div><div class="bodytext"><span style="color: #741b47;"><em>Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.</em></span></div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">I feel more confident, less anxious now. However, I will continue to make my request known to Him. I will still ask Him throughout the day for direction... but I will try not to beg out of desperation any longer.</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext">God is so good to us, despite ourselves. Pray for us when you think to.</div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div><div class="bodytext"><strong><em>SVETA JOSIE HOUSER:</em></strong> On an end note, my dear friends, the Housers, have returned from Ukraine with their new addition: Svetlana "Josie" HOUSER! I know that Peyton and Paige welcomed their new sister with much excitement. Their journey has not been without heartache either, but in the end, it's all worth it. Sveta Josie is with her forever family! <a href="http://www.followusthere.blogspot.com/">http://www.followusthere.blogspot.com/</a></div><div class="bodytext"><br />
</div>Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-2517518352622537862011-06-23T20:24:00.001-05:002011-07-01T16:11:55.537-05:00Russia... Ukraine...?As I mentioned in the last post, Ukraine passed new legislation. If we adopt from Ukraine, we will have to adopt a 5-yr old child or older. Additionally, Ukraine is making some adjustments that will slow and/or halt international adoptions for an indefinite period.<br />
<br />
We are praying and asking God what to do. We know we feel very drawn to Eastern Europe... so we are investigating other countries. When we began this journey, we wanted to go to Russia, but our adoption agency isn't licensed in Russia; They do facilitate Ukrainian adoptions, so we thought Ukraine would be the clear choice. We are CRAZY about our adoption agency, <em>Lifeline Children Services</em> (<a href="http://www.liflineadoption.org/">http://www.liflineadoption.org/</a>). They are conducting a contract home study for us. Our social worker, Gisella, is soooo amazing; we adore her. She has made this difficult process much easier. <br />
<br />
Anyway, we settled on Ukraine because (1) Lifeline has an amazing Ukraine coordinator, named Jana; (2) the country is part of Easter Europe; and (3) our church friends, the Housers, are adopting from the Ukraine.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><em>Side Note: The Housers are in Ukraine right now! They will bring home their little girl sometime within the next few weeks!!!! You can follow them at </em></span><a href="http://www.followusthere.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #351c75;"><em>www.FollowUsThere.blogspot.com</em></span></a><br />
<br />
From my research thus far, a Russian adoption will be much more expensive. However, we could adopt a 1-3 year old, which has always been our prayer. <br />
<br />
I don't know what God has in store for us. All Matt and I really want is just the child that He planned for us, wherever he or she may be. Please pray that God will tell us what to do and where to go. <br />
<br />
I'm an accountant; Additionally, I was raised to be very fiscally responsible. It's really important to Matt and I that we be good stewards of the money He has given us. Please pray that He will help us find a way to fund this adoption and still be good stewards. It may seem like a bizarre request, but it's on my mind most everyday.<br />
<br />
Lots-of -Love!<br />
<br />
PS - I'm very humbled that you are following us on this journey. I'm still stunned that anyone would read our blog.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-60983492131995546532011-06-21T08:32:00.002-05:002011-07-01T16:10:13.563-05:00Prayers for DirectionHELP!: I'm sorry I haven't posted anything. Matt and I are feeling really defeated and confused right now. Ukraine has passed new legislation which requires the orphan to <strong>"be at least 5 years old before they are eligible for intercountry adoption."</strong> WOW! We were not anticipating adopting a 5-6 yr. old. We thought we were going to the Ukraine to adopt a 2-4 yr. old. We feel really sad, to be honest. <br />
<br />
Ukraine Legislation Link: <a href="http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_alerts_notices.php?alert_notice_type=notices&alert_notice_file=ukraine_9">http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_alerts_notices.php?alert_notice_type=notices&alert_notice_file=ukraine_9</a><br />
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We both felt like God was leading us to Ukraine. Now, I feel stupid; I feel crazy. What if HE did not say Ukraine? What if HE did and we are going to be the parents of a 5 yr old.... That just makes me cry because we will have already missed so much of their life!<br />
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I don't know what God has planned. Matt and I are begging God to be very clear with us and give us direction. I have journeyed with God through enough crisis to know that HE is always faithful to finish the good work HE begins (Philippians 1:6). HE knows that I am worried and confused, and sad.<br />
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<strong>Please pray for Matt and I as we ask God what to do.</strong> We don't know if we are still going to Ukraine or if we need to look at other countries. We need to decide within the next couple of weeks. I know our little one is out there.<br />
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On a Positive Note: Our Home Study is going well. We meet with Gisella (our social worker) this Thursday to discuss mine and Matt's <em>parenting philosophy</em>. The books assigned by our adoption agency, Lifeline, have been really helpful. They are teaching us the difference between parenting a biological child versus an adopted child. Maybe I will talk more about that at a later date.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-86698851612819725822011-06-05T10:17:00.000-05:002011-06-05T10:17:36.884-05:00Home Study - Round 1We had our first home study visit with our assigned social worker, Gisella, on Friday. Before you can adopt (or foster parent), you have to complete a series of interviews and an INSANE amount of paperwork. Did you think buying a house was a lot paperwork? Me too, until now. I could buy 20 houses and not have as much paperwork to fill out. LOL. But the end result makes it all worth it.<br />
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Our appointment was 9am at our house and was to last 2-3 hours. Matt and I took the morning off. Side note - Matt and I have to wear business attire to work every day. He looks very handsome in his suit and tie, but he lives life in shorts and a t-shirt.<br />
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I wore a blue dress and sandals. Would you please guess what Matt chose to wear on this day... the day we make our first impression on the lady who approves us for a child? Matt had on shorts and a t-shirt that says, <em>70's Big.com! </em>What!?! I was panicked! I said to Matt, "We are interviewing for BABY, not a litter of kittens!" Ultimately, he settled on shorts and a polo shirt. What are you going to do?<br />
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Gisella is amazing. (PS - she wore a dress, leggings, and flats). She is beautiful, sweet, honest, positive, and forthcoming. More than this, she is also a Christian! She asked very thoughtful questions. I think our first interview went really well. Round 1 complete! Our next round of interviews are individual and scheduled over the next two weeks. Moving right along.Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-27783591423454114132011-06-01T21:05:00.003-05:002011-06-05T10:43:35.048-05:00Adoption Parenting: Prepare me or Scare me?Our adoption agency has assigned us two books to read. If you don't know me well, you may not know that I LOVE LOVE LOVE to read. I read several books every month... If you open any of my books, you will see portions of the text highlighted and notes in the margin. Perhaps that is why I rarely read fiction - what is there to write in the margins?<br />
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The first book is titled, <em>Adoption Parenting</em> (by MacLeod and Macrae). This book serves two purposes:<br />
<ol><li>A Resource Manual</li>
<li>A Reality Check/Scare Tactic</li>
</ol>The book is in deed an incredible reference. It gives an adoptive parent guidance on facing a multitude of challenges. Additionally, the book points the reader to other resources should we need additional help.<br />
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However, I can't decide if this book is giving me a reality check or trying to scare me. I'm sure it's the former, but I have learned that there are more challenges ahead than I had initially anticipated. I'm only 87 pages in (the book is roughly 500 pages), and already I'm worried that our child will suffer from attachment issues, developmental delays, speech delays, sleeping disorders... the list goes on. Is the book trying to prepare me or scare me?<br />
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I cannot imagine how afraid I would be if I could not find rest with God. HE comforts me. He reminds me that He is in control. I don' know what challenges are ahead. I do know that my God has proven Himself faithful to me countless times. I cannot trust myself, but I can most definitely trust the One, the only One, who has never failed me. Jesus, You are my constant companion. :)<br />
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I pray, Lord, that you will keep our little one safe. The book says that our child will suffer developmental delays because he or she spends so much time alone... in an institution. This breaks my heart. <em>Aloneness.</em> Lord, You have never been alone. There has always been community in the Trinity. I pray that You will comfort our little one. Make Your presence well known. Talk to him or her. Give her pleasant dreams. Develop him with Your hands. I'm asking You to do much more for our little one than I can think to pray for. He or she belongs to You first. If You will care for and comfort our little one, what do I have to be afraid of? <br />
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NOTHING!Matt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5729755916744216933.post-49174555126879477862011-05-25T21:43:00.003-05:002011-06-01T20:31:25.517-05:00BloggingWhat is the point of a blog if you aren't going to <em>blog</em>? Our friends say that people will want to know how our adoption is coming along. "WE MUST START A BLOG," they say.<br />
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My baby sister made this blog for Matt and I. Thank you, Courtney! <br />
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I am VERY uncomfortable with <em>blogging</em>. Blogging feels like <em>tweeting</em> to me. I've never seen twitter, but I think I understand the purpose. Truthfully, I think it's a bit arrogant to assume that people really want to read your stream of consciousness. I am uncomfortable blogging becuase I'm afraid that people will think I'm presumptuous too. <br />
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My husband tweets. Lord knows what; I do not. Matt is like my sister, an open book. He'll tell you whatever you want to know. I am intensely private and easily embarrassed. I purposefully avoid his Facebook page because I feel certain that I will only feel humiliated if I read it. There is no imagining what he writes on there. My sister told me he tweeted a picture of his breakfast once... I mean, WHAT!? I'm sure he'll post on here too. I need to prepare for the worst. Matt, go easy on me. :)<br />
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I want to become a blogger, at least for the sake of our little one. We don't know you yet, little one. But I want the record (or blog) to show that we are expecting you, planning for you, praying for you!<br />
-TiffanyMatt & Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17990809581351252197noreply@blogger.com2