ADOPTION UPDATE
Dec 9th, 2020:
Dear Family & Friends,
In September 2019, I thought I was setting out to adopt domestically, and was so excited! Little did I know how my plans would change, and the Lord would bring me half way around the world to a little boy who needed a mommy!
I want to update you on my adoption process and ask for your continued prayers & support! First, let me say “Thank you!” to each of you that have supported and encouraged me through this journey of adoption!
It’s hard to believe it was a year ago that I was flying to Uganda to meet my precious baby boy, Joseph for the first time! I’ve now been in Uganda fostering him for the past year, which is required by Ugandan law before I can begin the adoption process.
When I try to put the past 12 months into words, I struggle to describe all that has happened! It’s been my first year being a mother. It’s been the longest time I’ve lived in Uganda. It’s been a year with a worldwide pandemic and a complete lockdown in Uganda. It’s been a year full of ups and downs. However, this year has also been filled with more love and joy than I’ve ever experienced before. I am so grateful to be a mother, and cannot imagine a more precious or adorable child than Joseph. :) He is a joy and delight with a big personality and contagious smile! I thank the Lord for Joseph every day and for the blessing and gift that he is in my life. The Lord has carried me through the ups and downs of this past year, and He is faithful to continue walking with me and Joseph as we continue forward!
The next steps of Joseph’s adoption will begin in 2021 as I start the adoption process, which has many steps. I ask for your prayers for Joseph and I, as well as for every family member, lawyer, probation officer, judge, and personnel with a role in Joseph’s adoption case. I’d also ask for prayers that my financial needs will be met. Currently, I’ve paid over $17,000 towards Joseph’s adoption, and I will have another $10,000 or so still to pay this next year as we move through each phase of his adoption. The Lord has been so gracious, and I thank all of you who have supported my adoption of Joseph financially. I pray God’s blessings on you and thank you for your giving heart! If you’d like to give towards Joseph’s adoption, you can do so here on my account with AdoptTogether, and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt! Thank you again for your love and support of all kinds! Joseph also says ‘Thank You!’ :) Much love, Deanna
Original Post:
SEPTEMBER 6th, 2019:
Embarking on my GREATEST ADVENTURE YET!
I’m ADOPTING! (No, not a dog… a CHILD!) :)
This journey began in 2016… as a desire in my heart to adopt. I wasn’t sure how or when, but I knew I’d always wanted to be a mother. In January 2019, the Lord clearly said to me that now was the time, no more excuses, no more doubts or fears — trust Me. So I began 2019 on this journey - trusting, believing, and praying through it all!
I couldn’t be more excited and am doing everything I can to be prepared to welcome a precious life into my own life to love forever! As part of my adoption process, I have started a crowdfunding campaign. It may surprise you (as it did ME!) that domestic adoption costs can easily total up to $35,000 or more. This is why I have set a (God-sized) goal of $35,000 to help ease the financial burden that has been already a little overwhelming to me!
My hope & prayer is that by inviting you unto my journey, you will be blessed. I pray that as my family and friends — you will be able to help me love and support my child and this amazing adoption story!
I thank each and every one of you, and look forward to the day that I can introduce my child to you! \<3
