Memories... March 17, 2014

Hi everyone--

Five years ago, we left right after Chelsea got done with play practice and headed up to Columbus. Along the way, I thought about possibly doing something to celebrate St. Patrick's Day after we got to the big city. Instead, we hit the Taco Bell drive-through in Nelsonville and went straight to the hotel. After all, we had to be up very early, catch the Hampton Inn shuttle to the airport, and make a 6 a.m. flight.

I remember dragging our huge suitcases through the hotel and trying our best not to get too much out of them for the quick overnight stay. I remember being a bit nervous about the upcoming flights, but mostly in terms of catching them and ensuring that our suitcases made weight... I recall keeping my mind firmly on Ellie-Kate. We were going to get our baby. The entire adoption process had been a strange sort of labor, and the trip would be a most unusual "birth"-- the birth of our new family. Through each step of the way, we were being changed, shaped, transformed.

Oddly, I remember not worrying about flying over large bodies of water or traveling in a small plane to DC-- details that would have stressed me out before. God soothed my nerves and bolstered my strength and stamina. He provided us with what we needed, every step of the way.

As I look back, the entire adoption process and, especially, our journey were such amazing testaments of God's love, plan, and power. I couldn't have done any of it without Him, and I felt His hand through every step and move that we made. He guided us right to Ellie-Kate and provided us with the physical, emotional, and spiritual resources to travel, literally, around the world and back. Praise God for His constant provision, care, and love!!

As I reflect back on this day, five years ago, I recall the eve of our family's biggest adventure and the loving, guiding hand of our Lord. In the 60 months that have passed since, I admit that I haven't always felt as close as I did in those days before and during China, and I realize that God hasn't gone anywhere during those times. I need to do a better job of relying on Him, trusting Him, and seeking Him. What wonderous blessings await when I do... All I have to do is look into Ellie-Kate's eyes if I ever forget. She's such a miracle and incredible gift...

Happy Anniversary of the start of our adventure...

Christie