We recently were approached about a situation-- an expectant mother who is 17-years-old. The possibility kindled a fire in us and reminded us why we want to adopt. That mother has decided to parent her child. We want to be prepared though because ultimately we plan to adopt.
So what does that mean? We are back at it with fundraising and trying to find creative ways to save money. We are saving, getting crafty, offering to do odd jobs, selling items laying around our house (that we forgot we even had), and who knows what else. We have also been trying to determine which method we plan to use for adoption. There are SO many options -- agencies, attorneys, private, open or closed and then options inside each of those options. After talking we decided to submit an application with DSS. We called DSS back in June regarding applying with them and were shocked when they said they were not taking applications. It seems like we see stories on the news all the time of children being abandoned or needing care. I couldn't imagine DSS saying they were not accepting applications and to be honest it was discouraging. I texted Matt and told him I was so unsure. What did this mean? God has a plan. That's what he reminded me. When I called DSS again in August, they are again taking applications. We feel DSS will provide the structure we will need throughout this process. If you have ever felt the call to adopt and/or foster or simply want more information, please visit the SC DSS website.
You'll see more posts in the next few weeks and months on how you can pray and help if you feel led to do so. We appreciate your prayers. We have learned already that the adoption process brings a multitude of emotions -- joy, anticipation, fear, sadness, excitement. Please pray that God prepares our hearts for this journey.
Thanks in advance for your prayers and support.
