As time approaches for us to initiate preparing for our departure to Ukraine and our interview with the SDA, I have been asked, “Are you nervous?” and “are you scared?” almost every day. Oddly enough, I don’t feel rushed, hurried, nervous or scared. After pondering those questions for a few days and wondering that perhaps I should be a bit more anxious (because I am usually the type A here), I approached Jim with these same questions. I was not surprised at all by his response. No, he isn’t anxious or apprehensive about our approaching departure or interview. But that’s normal for him as he is always calm and collected – I love that about him!
That evening, I found some quiet time after everyone was in bed to think about this incredible journey. I thought maybe I should be feeling more stressed about our departure and interview appointment, but then I realized there is no need to be scared or nervous because God is leading the way. I have always known that my duty here on earth is to help others; to provide, care and nurture. I am following God’s will and HE is providing the peace in my heart to walk forward in this journey. I have no fears, no second thoughts, no desire to turn back; just an abundance of peace and love for a little girl who is waiting for her daddy and momma to bring her home.
Our family, friends, and the wonderful people we have just met have been more than generous with offers to help in anyway they can. Thank you for your offers – they are warm and thoughtful and because of your generosity everything is falling into place.
Continue to keep us in your prayers.
About Our Family
- ...
- El Paso, Texas, United States
- We are James, Lisa, Patrick, Christian, Carson, and Ella Payne a military family serving our country via service in the U.S. Army. Jim and I have been married for 18 years and have 3 wonderful home grown sons -Patrick, Christian and Carson. We recently adopted our beautiful daughter Ella Grace Ana from Donets'k, Ukraine in September. Jim and I began our Army life together at Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas and every assignment thus far has extended unique opportunities and challenges for our family to grow and learn; to become a stronger, committed, and a prepared Army family. Having recently lived abroad for six amazing years, we cannot express how thankful we are for the opportunity to have represented our great country and to discover the cultures and customs of other countries; to become close to the people and learn from them; to open our hearts and minds to the unfamiliar languages and way of life in other countries. Having now moved back to the United States, we are looking forward to discovering what new adventures await our family. Rest assured, wherever the Army sends us we will continue to serve you and our country proudly. Army life, we wouldn’t trade it!
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This is our "spot" we began at the beginning of our journey in May 2007, to adopt a child from Ukraine. In August 2008, we traveled to Ukraine to bring our daughter/sister Ella Grace Ana home; and on September 12, 2008 we did just that.
While our journey to bring her home is complete, our journey together is just beginning. We will continue to keep our spot here, posting as frequently as we can; and keeping you updated on our next journey in life...maybe a second adoption is in our future.
Please join us by following us by clicking on the "Follow" link to the left and posting your notes at the bottom of any post we have made.
While our journey to bring her home is complete, our journey together is just beginning. We will continue to keep our spot here, posting as frequently as we can; and keeping you updated on our next journey in life...maybe a second adoption is in our future.
Please join us by following us by clicking on the "Follow" link to the left and posting your notes at the bottom of any post we have made.
8 comments:
I agree. I seem to be ready to go. Just get the rest of the stuff put in the suitcases. I think we are just so ready to go that the apprehension about the trip has melted away. God is so great to put that calm spirit in our lives. Thanks for reminding me.
Tammy
I just came across your blog, and having recently gone through this adoption process, just wanted to encourage you as you follow God's lead in this endeavor.
As we waited 2.5 yrs to adopt, I often tried to make things happen on my timing, generally leading to stress and little success. When I prayed and waited for God to open the doors he intended, things fell into place as they were meant to be.
We wish you the best and know that God's plan for you will lead you to the place he wants you to be.
Blessings!
I felt totally the same way before we left. It felt totally natural to go down that road. Look at our daughter....she is just perfect as your sweetie will be!
Congratulations! We will be thinking of you and hoping your appointment goes well.
We leave in Sept. so I will be following your Blog, and praying for you all the way, knowing our trip is just around the corner.
I wish I could say I was a collected as you. I have not reached that stage yet. I am very....excited, nervous, stressed, anxious, and emotional!
Have a safe and speedy trip!
Kristina
www.babysistersjourney.blogspot.com
It is a journey of the heart.
God already knows what is instore for you,
What a great gift. Just follow and do not judge as often the biggest jewels were once flawed in others eyes, until polished.
Thanks, Lisa for commenting on our Blog! I am glad you like the pictures of the room...but that is just the before! If you liked that- you will love the after! I still have a lot to do, so the "after" pictures may not be up for a while.
I can't wait to see Ellas room! You have a beautiful family. She will be a blessed little girl.
Regards,
Kristina
Great post! I look forward to following your journey.
I can't wait to see what God has waiting for you! Just yesterday, braiding Halle Grace's hair, she said, "Mommy, tell me the story again about how you came to Ukraine to find me." Remember every adventure along the way, because someday your daughter will treasure her special story!
Love and hugs,
J
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