the mustard seeds: July 2015

It's hard to believe that we are approaching the one year anniversary of K joining our family. And what a year it has been! This blog has been seriously lacking this year (apologies), but every time I tried to write, it just didn't feel right. I strive to be open and honest, but yet not hurt or offend anyone else in the process. So while I would love to sit down and chat with you privately about the ups and downs of life these days, this public space may be rather quiet. (-:

July 2014, Ethiopia

That being said, this has been one of the hardest and one of the best years of my life. God has stretched me, broken me, and is putting me back together. I've been more amazed every day at this man I get to call my husband. And my girls are a challenge and a great joy.

August 2014

To answer the popular question about K: "How's she adjusting?", I always say that she is doing really well, considering the circumstances and all of the obstacles she has had to overcome. I don't know anyone more brave, strong, resilient, loyal and courageous than my daughter. She's a survivor, and to survive in a harsh world you must build defenses to protect yourself. These walls, that served her well in a dangerous environment, are now not necessary and often get in the way of trusting and connecting. It has been a painful process with beautiful results as we have got to see some of these walls coming down. We pray for continued healing and wholeness for our little girl!

September 2014

Our days are filled with dancing, singing the wrong lyrics to songs, Barbies, broken English, books, hairstyling, jokes, school, dolls and more dolls. K laughs and has a sister that adores her. She struggles and I struggle and we learn how to understand each other better. She plays and dreams about her orphanage friends and giggles when I hug her goodnight (hugs-miraculous!).


October 2014 (the realness of this photo was just too good and awkward not to post. please note happy smiling family taking perfect family photo behind us. ha!)

One year. What else can I say? Thank you to our friends and family who have been respectful and helpful with our sometimes strange requests (i.e.-please don't hug my daughter). (-: God is faithful, He has never left us even in our darkest days. He has given us hope and light in Him that will never fade. In the highs and the lows He is teaching me to say "Bless the Lord O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy name." (Psalm 103:1)