Last Blog

We are not really bloggers and only started this one so everyone who was interested would know how things were going. It turns out, blogging can be a bit theraputic for the blogger. Anyway, I will write this one as kind of a closure - if anyone is even still reading. John and I have been home for a week now. Zhenia has e-mailed us to let us know Viktor was fine, for now. We left money with Zhenia to dole out over the next year or so if Viktor is in need. Viktor also knows he can always communicate with us through Zhenia. We are sad with the way things have turned out and will continue to pray for Viktor and the decisions that will shape his life. I won't say there is not frustration and anger in the years' worth of paperwork, 2 months of being away from home and the financial sacrifice that went into this adoption. We are not, however, angry with Viktor. In fact, I don't think we are angry WITH anyone, just how things worked out. My heart aches for the orphans in Ukraine and I hope to return to help in some way in the future. Right now, we are so grateful to be home and with the kids again. I will trust God in his infinite wisdom that this adoption was not meant to be. Even though we feel we have lost something, we are certainly more aware and grateful for what we have. We are American Citizens (so very blessed!), turns out John and I still like being with each other, and we have an appreciation for even the most stressful days with the kids. One of the greatest blessings was the outpouring of love from everyone who prayed and encouraged us through this process. Many of you were already such an important part of our lives, but many were people we had never met, yet were willing to take the time out of their busy lives to care about us (especially the Maryville group!!!!!). Please know you all have been an inspiration to our family exemplifying Christ's love to one another. I cannot adequately communicate our appreciation for you - I only know God's hand was surely providing the love we needed through you. Now we are home and are needed here. While this experience has had a profound effect on our lives - we will try to focus on the positive. Our prayers are with the families who have already adopted and those of you considering international adoption. Although our story didn't have the perfect ending, there are so many families out there who are thriving. I guess I will close this chapter in our lives - for now . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .