Friday, March 7, 2008

Sunshine and prayers.


What a beautiful spring-y week it has been. Lots of bright blue skies and sunshine, balmy breezes, trees in bloom throughout the neighborhood. It's wonderful to be blessed with such lovely weather that makes you go outside and enjoy it, that motivates you to do things you just couldn't do if it were cloudy and gray. I love waking up to the sunshine.
Even in the midst of such bright sunny-ness, there are still clouds from time to time. That is the kind of week it's been: up and down, a roller-coaster of emotions, blue skies one minute and clouds the next.
Today is a big day. And as I write this, I have knots in my stomach-- the same knots that have been there all week long as we in our family looked forward to this day. My sister-in-law (who also happens to be my best friend) and her husband are in the process of trying to adopt two kids from the foster care system. There is a story I need to REALLY tell you sometime-- and I will, when the time is right. Anyway, today is the hearing to take away the parental rights of the biological parents. This is a BIG step in the process, and we have no idea what the outcome will be. But, needless to say, we are all hoping and praying with all our hearts that the ruling will be in favor of this happening. It means one step closer to adoption, it means no more bio visitations for the kids, it means that much less time until this whole thing is over and Luke and Jessica can really call them theirs. You don't even know the emotional strain this has been on Jessica-- there is so much that goes into this, and each week seems to hold new surprises and challenges. This week has been especially so. While we very much want to see this particular chapter closed in the process, it is extremely bittersweet. It is a wonderful, positive step forward in the adoption process-- but, it also means that a woman is faced with the fact that she is losing her kids for good, forever.
I won't go into much more detail than that, except to say that I love my niece and nephew with all my heart, and want what is best for them. And Jessica, who amazes me each day-- I can't even tell you how much I look forward to her kids really being HERS. All week long, it has all been very heavy on my heart, and I cannot stop thinking and praying about it all (a fact I am actually very grateful for, since praying is all I CAN do). Thankfully, I am reminded every day that no matter the outcome, it is in God's hands-- and His grace will be sufficient to carry Luke and Jessica and these kids through whatever else may come in this journey.
In other news, we are getting our backyard put in this week! Whee! We are so happy and excited. We've NEVER had a backyard before, in our five years of marriage, and there is just so much we are looking forward to-- BBQs, entertaining on our patio, gardening and making it beautiful, having a place for the kids to play. Oh boy, are we ever excited about that last one. My girls hardly know what to do with themselves, and neither do I. Sending them outside to play while I try to get some chores done is like freedom, sanity, and world peace all in one. Seriously! You don't think I would actually exaggerate, do you??
We will see how today goes. And your prayers would be much appreciated for this, if you happen to think of it. Praise God for prayers, and being able to trust in Him. Even-- no, especially-- in the midst of all these emotions, that sticks out to me. He is good. He is faithful. And we can rejoice no matter what happens.

5 comments:

Steph Corwin said...

It's amazing how quickly this day came! I remember talking about it like it was so far off. And now here we are! I am very anxious, and hope it all goes well. I wish I could be down there to support you all as well but I guess a little blog comment and text message to Jessica is all I can do at the moment.

but yay for the backyard! We just put our brick patio in this week too, and it has been so nice to have extra usable space! enjoy!

Lisa said...

You always have a way of putting things in such perfect perspective. I don't know if you are doing it to remind yourself to be that way or because you just naturally think that way, but it is always great to read your thoughts on people going through emotional/tough times. You are such an encourager!

Megan said...

Talia- Yes, I agree with Lisa- you ARE an encourager. How amazing it is to see how your heart is right on the line there with Jessica and Luke's. What a HUGE day it is. Knowing what an incredible person and Mom Jessica is (isn't it just like God to choose her for the abandoned?), I am BEGGING Him to let them keep those kids. BEGGING. Oh, and that's AWESOME about your backyard! OHhhh I'm so happy for you- it's gonna look beautiful with your handprints all over it!

bandofbrothers said...

Aw Talia, please know that I'm praying for you all during this stressful time. I agree with what everyone else posted.

sooo happy for your yard!we just had ours in last spring after 5 years of dirt. I love it and will never take grass for granted again!

thatmompodcast said...

Talia,

We continue to pray for Luke and Jessica and the little ones. Give Jessica a hug for me. (Stacie keeps me updated.) God is good ALL the time and of that we can be sure!