It’s been a while since we’ve shared any updates on where we’re at with our adoption as well as how far we’ve progressed towards our total budget and we thought it would a good idea to do so now before we go “active” (Lord willing) in a couple of weeks! I‘ve also gotten many questions along the way about where all of the money for our adoption is going. So while I break that down, I’ll share a story in case the total expenses involved starts to overwhelm you too.
In our family profile book we were given the opportunity to share with the expectant mother reading our story a quote that could be an encouragement to her during this super difficult time of decision making she’s going through. We chose Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Little did I know that it was going to be the verse I needed to remind myself of daily during this process. It turns out being in a situation where you have zero control can really bring to light the weaknesses you’re good at ignoring.As I’m sure you know, adoption is costly. Our “budget” for our adoption is set for $40k (which is the absolute lowest your budget can be). Then on top of that, there are several fees to be paid that aren’t included in our budget. So although our consultant group has our budget at $40k, we’re really needing around $50k.
For reference, here’s an example of how domestic adoption expenses are broken down:
Last Wednesday, I was adding up numbers and was excited to see that we’ve saved/raised over $15k so far. Considering we’re not active yet, that felt like a good place to be at! But my optimism was short-lived and was replaced with doubt. Being put up against a number as big as $50k can feel intimidating and sometimes at my lowest a bit unrealistic. But not to my God.
The next afternoon we got a letter in the mail and its timing was no coincidence. I still can’t even believe it. A check for $5k! A loving gift from a friend and a gracious act from my Father. Instantly I knew that the lies filling my head late at night saying “maybe you aren’t cut out for this” needed to find their rightful place behind me. I was struggling to trust the process, and God showed up for us big time. I've been told by other adoptive parents that not getting hung up by the numbers can be difficult, but nevertheless, God will always provide for the things He loves. Praising God for His steady faithfulness and provision!
We hope to go active the first week of September. Being active means that expectant mothers looking to place their children with another family will be able to look through our profile for placement! This is the stage when we will be waiting to get the phone call saying that we’ve been chosen or “matched.” After that, it’s only just a matter of when the baby will be born for them to be home with us! We’re so close we can feel it!
Adoption Fund Update:
$20,612.92/50,000
If you’d like to donate directly to our adoption fund via PayPal, please follow this link: