I love this painting. I love it for many reasons: it reminds me what B was like when he painted it for his kindergarten graduation; it makes me smile to see his concept of the assignment he was given: "paint children"; it gives me hope. I framed this adorable painting and love to look at it hanging on the wall--(often through teary eyes) because it represents to me faith in a BIG GOD.I saw my son holding up this painting at his kindergarten graduation as an affirmation from the Lord that He was at work in our family. We had been praying about adopting for some time and were expressing this concept of feeling "called to adopt"--something that gets stronger for us every day. I had one of those "cry my eyes out" moments only days before when the cost and task seemed totally daunting and terribly overwhelming. I remember crying out to God, "Why have you asked us to do something we can't do?--We can't pay for this..." His reply was simple & clear: "I set the stars in the sky and the fish in the sea...what is this expense to me? I can handle it...let Me handle it".
I have always admired other Christians who expressed and lived out huge faith--but this has not been me. I am intensely practical and often too 'realistic'--I see the road blocks, not the road. I see the challenges, not the God of the impossible. This experience was for me an opportunity to grow, to trust, to hope. And so when I saw my son pull this painting from behind his back and hold it over his head with a huge grin, I cried. I knew this was just another picture of God being in complete control. I still don't know who our new child is or what he looks like, but I know God does. I believe he is represented in the painting that hangs on my wall: and that gives me great hope. I still have my moments of panic and stress, but there truly is a deep sense of faith--not in our abilities and certainly not in our finances, but in a faithful God. We have already been blown away by His hand in this process--from recycling to B's booming bracelet business --God is making a way for us. I believe He will only continue to do so.
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11 comments:
Hello Wolf Family,
I just read your "Famous Indeed" blog which was sent to me from CHI Newletter. We had been working with Family Services to adopt for several years and we were in the process of checking into international adoption because we didn't think that a local adopt was going to work out for us. Anyhow, to make a long story short, as fate and God had planned a precious gift of a little girl came to our home and our adoption will be complete this November! Our very best wishes to you and your family from Montana. I would love to purchase 2 bracelets from your son. One adult and one child. My email is kheiken@wtp.net.
Mel.
I'd love to buy some bracelets. Ill be in town Sept. 22 for the women's Alumni game. Will you be there? If you are, please bring some bracelets!! What a great and touching story.
I hope all is well:)
Blessings
Steph Staniland
Hello,
I'm so touched by your story and so glad to hear I am not the only one to cry at their children's Kinder graduation. I indeed have children that go to school with yours and this year it is my honor and to be the School Nurse there! My triplets are in grade 1 now but every time I walk by Mrs. K's (who told me of your bracelets)and Mrs. E's room I think of what a lovely beginning and I get teary again. I had always wanted to adopt! I wanted to give back, as my mother was kindly adopted when she was an infant and I believe she is a lovely miracle and wanted to do the same for a child. I think God's plan included a different Miracle for me so I have a 4 children. A highschooler and the triplets and for now that is enough, but I would love to be involved with your Miracle. I would like 5 adult bracelets and 1 childs bracelet. I am at the school each AM from 9:30-1:30 but bring the kids to school at 8:15. My email address is four_js_mom@yahoo.com and Thank you for being so committed and inspirational! Joella
I know your fears of provision are very real. I faces them too. Do you know that as my husband and I continued to give our regular tithe throughout the adoption journey the Lord continued to pour out blessing on us. We are now 100% paid with $14k sitting in the bank for trip #2 expenses. He is so faithful. Rest in Him. When you find yourself start to doubt...run back - even if you have to fight again through all those doubts - to the place of resting in Him. He who called you is faithful - he will do it!
Hi, This is Sandy Thoma, Keli's mom! I saw Keli's bracelet and heard your story. WOWWWW!!!! I'm so blessed by Barrett's heart. I would like to buy 15 of his bracelets and will pass your story along!! Please call me at 760-492-1534 and I'll arrange to buy them!! Melanie..thanks for all you've been to our precious girl!!
I LOVE this painting. It shows just how beautifully children see the world and the people in it. Everyone is looked at equally and without judgement until they are told to think otherwise. I would have framed this one too! What a beautiful story!
Throughout our adoption process we had no idea how we were going to pay for our travel and Russia fees, but God provided a way (via a home equity loan), and Owen came home at just the perfect time, and I've been able to stay at home with him for 4 months now!
I am so excited for you as you begin this journey. God will provide. Best wishes to you and your precious family as you prepare for you sweet little boy!
Please contact us so we can order bracelets. stenfamily@comcast.net
Hi Wolfe Family,
What a precious story...our hearts are in Russia, too, and someday the Lord will allow us to go back and bring home the child he has waiting for us, I just know it. In the meantime, we'd love to purchase several bracelets. My sister-in-law has requested one for Christmas. My email is amy_knorr@yahoo.com.
I am interested in purchasing three adult bracelets. 13 years ago we adopted a sibing group from Russia and what a journey it was! I know exactly how you are feeling. But God is faithful and HE will provide. We would love to help in any way. May God continue to bless you and your wonderful family.
Carol B.
please send bracelet pricing for three adult bracelets. send to carolbrysonstamps@yahoo.com
thanks. carol b.
Well said.
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