Fasting

So, I belong to an online group with wonderful women from many different religious backgrounds. The topic of fasting has been brought up a time or two, and I was curious, but I was afraid to say something.... because I know NOTHING about fasting. Well, except that you don't eat, but I know there's more to it than that! Lately, there have been some issues in my personal life that have led me to be more selfish and say *gasp* hateful things. I know everyone does it, but I don't like the mood I'm left in afterwards. I feel like I get all snappy and bitter, and I do not like it. I've been trying to reason with myself, but to no avail. Yes, I've had full conversations where I try to tell myself that I'm being unreasonable about X situation or another, but in the end, I'm still grumpy.

Anyway, the topic of fasting came up again today, and today was the day I spoke up. I was directed to this website, and I was pleasantly surprized by how informative it was. There are even biblical references. The author talks about several different types of fasts and even a 40 day fast! I'm not ready for that yet, but we will be fasting on Sunday. If you would like to join us, we are praying for all the families involved in international adoption. Some regions are not processing dossiers right now, and that leaves some families just waiting - for who knows how long.... This could have been us! So, now I pray that the regions will either re-open or that the families in the adoption community can get some actual news instead of the "nothing new" report they have been getting for the past few weeks. I will also be praying for a more patient and forgiving heart. I am hoping that through prayer and fasting, I will arrive at a more calm place.

Blogging again

It feels liberating! Blogging again, that is. When I started this journey, I had no idea the places it would take me to - literally and figuratively. Three years ago, I had no idea about the orphan crisis in the world. I had no idea 143 MILLION children across the globe are orphans. Children just sitting and waiting for their turn. I had no idea that when these children turned a certain age, they were just released, with no money, no family, no skills, and no place to go.

Nearly three years ago, I told my husband that there was NO way I would adopt. We would have our children the "regular" way. Then, I stumbeled across someone else's adoption story. Then, I met a little boy whose family had abandoned him, because he had medical issues. Finally, the idea stuck in my head and wouldn't leave me alone. I am so glad I listened to that voice. It has not been an easy road, but I have come out of it with a different view on life.

So here we are: my husband, myself, and our beautiful Russian tomboy (Stinka). Yes, that is a real nickname for her :) This begins our journey to our next child. There are only a handful of people who know that we will be committing to him, but in about 6 weeks, it will become public knowledge. Stinka needs surgery, so we will be waiting until she is out of the woods before we commit again. We are planning a very special way to tell everyone!!