The Lord continues to provide!!!! Just what we need, at the right time.
-Anticipating
Thursday, December 22, 2011
fundraising update
The Lord continues to provide!!!! Just what we need, at the right time.
-Anticipating
merry christmas to our orphan!
I just wrote a check for $2237.50 to begin the homestudy. Yikes! And began on some paperwork. I've learned that the adoption process is a lot of money, paperwork and prayer. We're looking forward to beginning the homestudy after New Year's. The homestudy is about a 6 month process where...
- A social worker comes to house 3-4 times to talk with us
- We work on a TON of paperwork (biographical info, etc.)
- We have to get fingerprinted, background checks, get my passport updated and get Dr.'s physicals
- Pictures, marriage license, birth cert's, etc all have to be submitted
-Another $2200 is due at the end of the homestudy to have it finalized.
All of this information will be sent off the immigration and they will translate it. This is called the "dossier" pronounced doss-ee-ay.
Once this is sent off to the congo, the congolese government will match us with a child. That's probably 12 months away.
I must trust the Lord with ALL of this. If I don't, I become anxious and uptight and cannot enjoy where God has me today. I'm loving the fact that God is completely in control and He is Sovereign. He has every moment of our lives planned out. He is good!
- A social worker comes to house 3-4 times to talk with us
- We work on a TON of paperwork (biographical info, etc.)
- We have to get fingerprinted, background checks, get my passport updated and get Dr.'s physicals
- Pictures, marriage license, birth cert's, etc all have to be submitted
-Another $2200 is due at the end of the homestudy to have it finalized.
All of this information will be sent off the immigration and they will translate it. This is called the "dossier" pronounced doss-ee-ay.
Once this is sent off to the congo, the congolese government will match us with a child. That's probably 12 months away.
I must trust the Lord with ALL of this. If I don't, I become anxious and uptight and cannot enjoy where God has me today. I'm loving the fact that God is completely in control and He is Sovereign. He has every moment of our lives planned out. He is good!
-Antici-PATE-ing
our Coffee fundraiser
Toomer's Coffee has graciously helped us with a fundraiser. They made a special blend just for us. $10/bag. Very delicious coffee. We bought 100 and sold them in a week!!! People we didn't even know were calling and emailing for some. So we got 50 more and have about 20 left.
Thanks to our friends that have bought our coffee, and who have given extra money as well to help!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Micah and Elijah's latest
Micah will be 4 in March-I can't believe it. His latest....
-just wrote his name for the first time while making christmas cards for his Sunday School teachers
-knows 2 bible verses Genesis 1:1 and Romans 3:23
-just started doing his buttons and zippers all by himself
-went on an airplane for the first time. we were blessed to visit my Grandma and Mom in Miami, FL at Thanksgiving
-went fishing for the first time in FL
Elijah will be 2 in April - can't believe that either! His latest...
-he's talking more and more. says "usssuuu" means "whatsssss up?"
-he loves cars, trucks, trains, balls
-eating his favorite thing to do! he squeals and starts dancing when he sees food, or even hears plates and silveware or a food wrapper
-he's constantly wet from drool
-he's doing well with puzzles and blocks
-his balance and walking has gotten so much better.
-he loves to copy and follow big brother
-he grabs my hand when it's time to pray before a meal. so sweet :)
excited for christmas!
a sweet brotherly moment
the Lord is providing!
We have so many sweet, generous friends that are giving to us. We're SO thankful and SO grateful.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
waiting on the Lord
The Lord continues to grow my patience. I think if we only had $___, then we'd be further along and I'd be that much closer to getting our child. But I remind myself that thinking that way is not helpful, or profitable. I'm waiting on the Lord's timing. I have to remind myself that God is Sovereign and that I can't see the big picture like He does. At times, I think, "we're in a recession, no one will be able to give" but then God intervenes and tells me that He is bigger than a recession and to keep my eyes on the cross. I get on my knees and talk to God about it, and then I receive an email or phone call that says "we're sending you something for your adoption" ... I think God just really wants to grow my prayer life. God says in James 5:16 "prayer of a righteous man powerful and effective" When I am reluctant to ask, I think about how Micah will ask us for something and how we help him. It says in Matthew 7:11"If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
The Lord continues to grow my level of long-suffering. There is a little orphan that is completely worth it all. There is so much involved with the adoption process, we are working so hard at fundraising, and I don't even know his or her name. At times, I lose heart and forget why we're doing this. And other times, usually when I hear the boys giggle or see a sweet smile, I'm reminded of why we're doing this adoption thing. I think about Jesus on the cross and all the pain He went through to rescue my soul, and I persevere through the doubt. It wasn't east for Him. He never quit. He gave His life for me, to rescue my soul.
-Anticipating
The Lord continues to grow my level of long-suffering. There is a little orphan that is completely worth it all. There is so much involved with the adoption process, we are working so hard at fundraising, and I don't even know his or her name. At times, I lose heart and forget why we're doing this. And other times, usually when I hear the boys giggle or see a sweet smile, I'm reminded of why we're doing this adoption thing. I think about Jesus on the cross and all the pain He went through to rescue my soul, and I persevere through the doubt. It wasn't east for Him. He never quit. He gave His life for me, to rescue my soul.
-Anticipating
Monday, November 14, 2011
Orphan Sunday
Yesterday was nationwide orphan sunday. I love the fact that there are many others out there that are in pursuit of orphans as well (or have already adopted) and that orphans are recognized in the church. We got the share in 1 of Lakeview's sunday schools about our story and what God is doing in our family.
Still trusting for about $2000 just to begin the homestudy! God is good and we know that whenever He calls and commands, He always provides. Our faith muscles continue to grow!
Still trusting for about $2000 just to begin the homestudy! God is good and we know that whenever He calls and commands, He always provides. Our faith muscles continue to grow!
It's beginning to look a little like Christmas!
We started putting up the tree yesterday. The boys are having fun with it. Micah is a good helper. He "hooks" the ornament for me and hangs the low ornaments for me. Elijah was a little scared of it.
I'm praying that the boys would see through all the glitter and bows and see Jesus. That's what it's all about. Not the presents (although they are fun). As Jesus works through me, they get a glimpse of what a relationship with Jesus is all about. "Life is but a breath." Our lives are so short here on this earth. I am determined to live my life with no regrets for Jesus.
In the DR Congo, the average ANNUAL salary is ~$250. That's less than $1 per day. I cannot even imagine what life would be like. I have kept that number in mind as I do my christmas shopping.
-Anticipating
I'm praying that the boys would see through all the glitter and bows and see Jesus. That's what it's all about. Not the presents (although they are fun). As Jesus works through me, they get a glimpse of what a relationship with Jesus is all about. "Life is but a breath." Our lives are so short here on this earth. I am determined to live my life with no regrets for Jesus.
In the DR Congo, the average ANNUAL salary is ~$250. That's less than $1 per day. I cannot even imagine what life would be like. I have kept that number in mind as I do my christmas shopping.
-Anticipating
Lies from the enemy
We have an enemy here on this earth that wants to do everything in his power to deter us from believing God's promises and doing God's work. But I'm so thankful that Jesus has defeated our enemy and we are victorious in Jesus!!! Fear is not from God. He has not given us the spirit of fear. As Micah says, "Jesus is gonna win the fight when He throws satan in the lake of fire!"
Adoption is such a battle for lost souls of children. Satan has such a stronghold in these dark places around the globe where MILLIONS of kids are orphaned.
Some lies that the enemy is trying to make me believe about adopting...
-This isn't really what God wants you to do.
-God didn't really say to take care of the Fatherless
-God will not provide for you.
-There are better ways to use your time and money.
-It doesn't matter that there are 143 million orphans in the world.
-There's no way you can do this. It's too much of a burden.
-Just take the easy road. Don't be radical for Jesus.
I will say no to his lies. The enemy is wrong. The Victor is living in me!
-Anticipating
Adoption is such a battle for lost souls of children. Satan has such a stronghold in these dark places around the globe where MILLIONS of kids are orphaned.
Some lies that the enemy is trying to make me believe about adopting...
-This isn't really what God wants you to do.
-God didn't really say to take care of the Fatherless
-God will not provide for you.
-There are better ways to use your time and money.
-It doesn't matter that there are 143 million orphans in the world.
-There's no way you can do this. It's too much of a burden.
-Just take the easy road. Don't be radical for Jesus.
I will say no to his lies. The enemy is wrong. The Victor is living in me!
-Anticipating
Sunday, October 30, 2011
our support raising process
We feel like God has called us not just to the ministry of adoption, but to raising support. We are confident that God will provide ALL that we need for this adoption, which will be about $25,000 when all is said and done. Not because we are deserving. Not because we are "good" people. But because God is a big God. God is all about adoption. He's the best Daddy in all of Eternity. There's no one like Him. He will not command us, and then not provide. For many people, being generous is a joy. It's not like pulling teeth. It's what many people love to do. We love to see God provide!
You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 corinthians 9:11
Taking baby steps...
Application fee ($250) paid!
***What we are trusting God for now: First payment before homestudy can begin ($2200)
You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 corinthians 9:11
An orphanage in the democratic republic of congo (drc)
God has provided so far...
$500
$150
$150
$100Taking baby steps...
Application fee ($250) paid!
***What we are trusting God for now: First payment before homestudy can begin ($2200)
why adoption? why international?
We've been asked this a lot. And it boils down to 1 thing: it's what God has told us to do! I can't explain it any other way.
Adoption is not for everyone. International adoption is not for everyone.
BUT we have been commanded to "look after the orphan and the widow" (James 1:18)
International adoption is the best way we can come up with to obey this command. All other doors have been closed for us.
Peripheral/secondary reasons for international adoption...
- As believers in Jesus and children of God, we have been adopted into God's family. When we were God's enemy, we were not included into His family. When we became born-again, we were adopted into God's family. Our adoption is only an overflow of joy for what God has done for us! God the Father is our Daddy!
- There are millions of orphans in the world- no family, no hope, many without clean water or food, no opportunity to hear the Good News.
- God has given us every grace that we need. He's given us the power we need. There is nothing that is impossible with God.
Adoption is not for everyone. International adoption is not for everyone.
BUT we have been commanded to "look after the orphan and the widow" (James 1:18)
International adoption is the best way we can come up with to obey this command. All other doors have been closed for us.
Peripheral/secondary reasons for international adoption...
- As believers in Jesus and children of God, we have been adopted into God's family. When we were God's enemy, we were not included into His family. When we became born-again, we were adopted into God's family. Our adoption is only an overflow of joy for what God has done for us! God the Father is our Daddy!
- There are millions of orphans in the world- no family, no hope, many without clean water or food, no opportunity to hear the Good News.
- God has given us every grace that we need. He's given us the power we need. There is nothing that is impossible with God.
- When God commands, He doesn't leave us hanging out to dry, left to ourselves to figure it out. He gives us what we need to help us to obey.
- As far as why international, I think it also boils down to the fact that it's what God has called to. It's what we're most passionate about. It's how God has gifted me (Kim).
Micah and Elijah- 1 1/2 and 3 1/2
Monday, October 24, 2011
we're in!!!
I got word tonight that we are officially accepted by Lifeline and in the adoption process!!! I can't believe it. We've been talking about it for so long, I can't believe the time has arrived. I wonder about the child that God has for... has he/she even been born yet? What's going on with the biological Mother and Father? Boy or girl? So many questions at this point. God knows. He has the perfect one picked out for us already :)
Also, we are celebrating our 5 year anniversary! What a sweet anniversary gift from the Lord!
-Anticipating
Also, we are celebrating our 5 year anniversary! What a sweet anniversary gift from the Lord!
-Anticipating
Friday, October 21, 2011
Our adoption timeline
So this is kinda what has led us to this point...
198?- Todd became born-again. Shortly after knew that God was leading him to "make disciples"
199?- Todd spent 18 months in Kazakhstan and his heart was burdened for the nations
2001- I (Kim) became born-again. Shortly after became burdened for kids that have no hope
2002- On a Summer Beach Project with Campus Outreach, God began working in my heart for the nations. Also where Todd and I met
2006- Todd and Kim married and international adoption became a "dream" for us as a married couple
2008/2010- Micah and Elijah born
October 2010- Got "more serious" about adopting but God kept the doors closed. We were given $1000 by 4 different friends for adoption costs. Started filling out paperwork for international adoption but none of the countries met our guidelines, or we didn't meet any 1 countries guidelines. So we started pursuing adopting thru the local foster care system. But we had scheduling conflicts and not able to attend their certification classes.
October 2011- "Just happened" to be looking on Lifeline's website again. Saw Congo and CHA-CHING! It meets all of our guidelines and we meet all of their guidelines!!! We wanted a country that had a short travel time and has young/healthy children available. This is the only country that Lifeline works with that meets these guidelines for us.
October 20, 2011- Got in appplication
October 28, 2011- Our 5 year anniversary
198?- Todd became born-again. Shortly after knew that God was leading him to "make disciples"
199?- Todd spent 18 months in Kazakhstan and his heart was burdened for the nations
2001- I (Kim) became born-again. Shortly after became burdened for kids that have no hope
2002- On a Summer Beach Project with Campus Outreach, God began working in my heart for the nations. Also where Todd and I met
2006- Todd and Kim married and international adoption became a "dream" for us as a married couple
2008/2010- Micah and Elijah born
October 2010- Got "more serious" about adopting but God kept the doors closed. We were given $1000 by 4 different friends for adoption costs. Started filling out paperwork for international adoption but none of the countries met our guidelines, or we didn't meet any 1 countries guidelines. So we started pursuing adopting thru the local foster care system. But we had scheduling conflicts and not able to attend their certification classes.
October 2011- "Just happened" to be looking on Lifeline's website again. Saw Congo and CHA-CHING! It meets all of our guidelines and we meet all of their guidelines!!! We wanted a country that had a short travel time and has young/healthy children available. This is the only country that Lifeline works with that meets these guidelines for us.
October 20, 2011- Got in appplication
October 28, 2011- Our 5 year anniversary
Its been a long time
Well, its been 2 years since I've been on here. We had a blog (http://www.thepatefamilyblog.blogspot.com/) but my old email address, which is the log-in, is no longer in existence, so I can no longer access that blog. Sooo, I made a new one! Here's the latest on us....
Todd- Still works for Sides Drywall Inc, a family business in Auburn, AL. He is enjoying it. He wears a lot of hats- a project manager, the safety coordinator, does some of the bidding and works out in the field a little. He is also teaching a night class at Southern Union. He's been teaching the Newlyweds Sunday School Class at Lakeview and has really been enjoying that too. He's a sweet husband to work hard for our family, spend quality time with the boys and take me on dates.
Kim- Well, I stay busy with Todd, the boys and the house. I do a couple things with the church, mainly the womens bible study and helping Todd with Sunday School stuff. We've had our house on the market for about 6 months. No offers yet, still waiting. Want to stay closeby to Auburn. We've been "Dave Ramsey-ized", so just trying to pay down some debt. We started in October '09 and have payed off ~$25,000 in debt. About halfway there. We are pumped!
Micah- He's 3 1/2 now. He loves playing outside, building towers with blocks, reading books and going to the park. I have to brag on him...he knows all of his numbers and letters, can almost count to 20, knows 2 bible verses and is beginning to read!
Elijah- 1 1/2 now. Loves eating anything and everthing, following Micah, talking on the phone and climbing. He's talking a little and can do some sign language. He loves big brother. We've had a PT working with him because he has "hypotonia" (low muscle tone AKA squishy) ... he's making really good progress. We have special exercises to do with him everyday. He hates it (and I hate it too because he screams) but I know it's for the best.
So, that's what's been going on with us for the last 2 years. God has taught us so much about waiting on Him and trusting Him for little stuff and big stuff. He has been so good to us. We are so thankful for the good news of the gospel that gives us hope, peace and a purpose for our lives, our marriage and our parenting.
Todd- Still works for Sides Drywall Inc, a family business in Auburn, AL. He is enjoying it. He wears a lot of hats- a project manager, the safety coordinator, does some of the bidding and works out in the field a little. He is also teaching a night class at Southern Union. He's been teaching the Newlyweds Sunday School Class at Lakeview and has really been enjoying that too. He's a sweet husband to work hard for our family, spend quality time with the boys and take me on dates.
Kim- Well, I stay busy with Todd, the boys and the house. I do a couple things with the church, mainly the womens bible study and helping Todd with Sunday School stuff. We've had our house on the market for about 6 months. No offers yet, still waiting. Want to stay closeby to Auburn. We've been "Dave Ramsey-ized", so just trying to pay down some debt. We started in October '09 and have payed off ~$25,000 in debt. About halfway there. We are pumped!
Micah- He's 3 1/2 now. He loves playing outside, building towers with blocks, reading books and going to the park. I have to brag on him...he knows all of his numbers and letters, can almost count to 20, knows 2 bible verses and is beginning to read!
Elijah- 1 1/2 now. Loves eating anything and everthing, following Micah, talking on the phone and climbing. He's talking a little and can do some sign language. He loves big brother. We've had a PT working with him because he has "hypotonia" (low muscle tone AKA squishy) ... he's making really good progress. We have special exercises to do with him everyday. He hates it (and I hate it too because he screams) but I know it's for the best.
So, that's what's been going on with us for the last 2 years. God has taught us so much about waiting on Him and trusting Him for little stuff and big stuff. He has been so good to us. We are so thankful for the good news of the gospel that gives us hope, peace and a purpose for our lives, our marriage and our parenting.
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