Random Musings Before the Trip

We’ve been asked if each trip is easier because we’ve done this before. The answer is both “yes” and “no”. Easier in the sense that we’ve gone through all the paperwork and know what to expect for the most part on that side, and we've been to China before. “No’ because each child is different and brings a new type of expectation and yes, anxiety. Aiden is 7 years old, twice as old as Adam was when we brought him home and more than 4 times older than Makayla. He’ll bring along his own set of expectations and anxieties, none of which we are now privy to. There is a language difference that will be more evident and Jeff realizes that his meager attempt at learning Mandarin will fall woefully short. Aiden will be leaving a place that he has called home to a whole new country, where the people talk different, look different, and probably smell different. He will soon be the stranger in a strange land. And yet, his whole life is ahead of him – filled with new wonders and new joys – and new siblings – one he probably won’t even meet for a year and three others who will be his constant companions.

Aidan is coming home to the home God has called him to. We are so privileged to be that home.

Adam and Makayla were born miles apart and 2 months apart but have been brother and sister for over 1 ½ years. Adoption is amazing. People ask if they are twins. Makayla and her sister Mackenzie are inseparable. They are as close as sisters can be. Adoption is amazing. I had to post this video, (1) to see if I could , and (2) because I am so proud of how Adam and Makayla worked together, Kayla really wanted to score a goal and Adam had been scoring goals all season. We asked him to help his sister out this game. See the results. Yes they have their fights, that is even more evidence that God has brought them together as siblings. We can’t wait for Aiden to be part of all this.

Finally, our pastor preached on Sunday from Mark 9:33-37 (yes we were paying attention!). Mark 9:37 says (Jesus speaking to the disciples after taking a little child in His arms) “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in My name welcomes me…” Thanks Pastor for the confirmation! Off we go!