Almost seven years ago Steve and I (Lynley) began to pray about expanding our family. We felt like we had the green light on this one, but after a few years and many tests, all with no medical reasons why there was no conception, we questioned God again. We asked Him that if this wasn't His plan for us that He would remove our desire to increase our family, but our desire only became stronger.

Though Steve was very open to adoption, I quickly closed the door (smashing Steve's toes along the way). Another year went by when a call from a high school friend of mine came, announcing their decision to adopt a little girl from China (This is the Amy and Jarrett we talk about). We were stunned and excited for them. They asked us to be the legal guardian of this child if something tragic ever happened to them. After praying about this, we accepted the responsibility and felt honored to do so. This became the turning point of my heart.

I had a dream that I had to go to China to go get this baby, and nothing could be any sweeter. My thoughts were dominated by this little Asian face. I made myself open, to what God had planned for us all along. Finally, my heart was won for adoption. Steve was very excited for my heart change, because he had always been open to adoption. I can look back now and see how God planted many seeds, but I was unwilling to notice, much less cultivate them. I just wish I wasn't so stubborn, and it wouldn't have taken 3 years for me to listen to God. At the same time, though, God had plans to use us during those years and He used that time to really grow us in Him.

The phone call and dream happened in February of 2005. Right away we felt we should pray and fast about this big decision to adopt and the country of origin before talking to the kids, Coleman now 11, and Graham now 9.

When we mentioned it to them, they were very excited about pursuing adoption, which gave us further confirmation.

We felt sure of His call and China was the country. We couldn't wait to get started, so we hurriedly did all that was needed to get approval! My heart had done a 180° turn, and Steve and I knew this was God's plan for our family after all. How could we not obey?

We are scared and excited simultaneously, yet we also know nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37)! We have prayed daily for the past three years for this baby God has hand-picked for us to have at His perfect timing. Knowing that the Lord will give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4) and that He will equip us with everything good for doing His will (Hebrews 13:21) has encouraged us greatly. The work and wait has definitely not been easy...

... Thank you for the concern and prayers of our friends and family. Please don't stop praying for us all! We look forward to posting on our journal and hope you will enjoy it as we share our journey with you. We CANNOT WAIT to share our precious God-given gift with you.