God had planted the desire to adopt in each of our hearts, even before we met. Rachel's dad was adopted, and she grew up with a deep thankfulness for adoption and the way that it directly impacted her life through her dad. Chris grew up with extended family members who are adopted, so adoption was a part of his history as well. Because of our family members and their stories, and because of our experiences as parents, we have always been in awe of the courage and strength that birth mothers exhibit in making the decision to place their child for adoption. The significance of that choice and the long-reaching impact of it have directly affected our lives, and we are grateful for each mom who makes this weighty, selfless decision. We became parents in 2011 (and again in 2013 and 2015!), and knowing and raising our children has been one of the most joy-filled, heart-expanding adventures that we have ever known. We view each of our children as a unique gift from the Lord, and we do not take the responsibility of caring for their hearts lightly! We strive to live out our love for Jesus and our love for each other in front of them daily, hoping that they will always be confident in God's love and purpose for them, and in our unconditional love for them. We tell our children often that it is an honor to be their parents, and that we are thankful that God has trusted us with their lives. We already feel the exact same way about this little one whom the Lord has prepared in advance to be a part of our family. God has carved a special place in our family for this child, and they are already fiercely loved, intensely longed for, and faithfully prayed for. Thanks for your prayer and generosity and the ways you are partnering with us in this adoption story that God is weaving.
