We Are Blessed...
When we started our adoption journey, there were so many emotions involved. We were embarking on territory we had never journeyed before. We didn't know what to expect along the way, how it was all going to fall into place, or how people would react to our decision. Well, a lot has happened that we didn't expect, our journey changed directions and we got some reactions we didn't anticipate. But, this last weekend, we had another unexpected event. We were surrounded by family and friends in a tremendous outpouring of love and support.
"Have a Heart for Anna" was a benefit held in our behalf to help with the adoption expenses. Our families/friends sold tickets, made chili, desserts, collected silent auction items and worked in the benefit. There was a great turn-out for the event and a lot of community support for the auction. There was over 64 auctions and the majority were multiple items. They had everything from a cute Valentine Starbucks basket, with coffee, mug, after-coffee mints, chocolates, Valentine card, etc. (thanks Aunt Stephanie & Uncle Rick) to a Coconut Cake that brought $45!! (Thanks Aunt B for baking and Uncle Woody for buying) There was gift certificates, a photography package, a taxidermy "mount" (we do live in KY - big Whitetail fans!), home decor, an Avon Anew basket, quilt rack, movie night basket, game basket, the list goes on and on... Not only the auction, but people came out to eat chili (you know people don't really want to pay for chili on a Saturday night at a Community Center). It was freezing cold outside and people came to support us and Anna. I was shocked. Every time the doors opened and more people came in, I just couldn't believe it. God always out does what we think He is going to do. The event raised well over $3500.00, and people are still sending gifts!!! You know, the money is a real blessing...we have to have it in order to do what has to be done, BUT, the people...that was the real blessing. People that live in rural communities, not a lot of ethnicity present, came out for a little girl in China. They came out to show their love to us. They came out to show their love for our daughter...how can it get any better than that? Okay, if she were there, it would have been better :-) But, that will happen soon!
"Have a Heart for Anna" was a benefit held in our behalf to help with the adoption expenses. Our families/friends sold tickets, made chili, desserts, collected silent auction items and worked in the benefit. There was a great turn-out for the event and a lot of community support for the auction. There was over 64 auctions and the majority were multiple items. They had everything from a cute Valentine Starbucks basket, with coffee, mug, after-coffee mints, chocolates, Valentine card, etc. (thanks Aunt Stephanie & Uncle Rick) to a Coconut Cake that brought $45!! (Thanks Aunt B for baking and Uncle Woody for buying) There was gift certificates, a photography package, a taxidermy "mount" (we do live in KY - big Whitetail fans!), home decor, an Avon Anew basket, quilt rack, movie night basket, game basket, the list goes on and on... Not only the auction, but people came out to eat chili (you know people don't really want to pay for chili on a Saturday night at a Community Center). It was freezing cold outside and people came to support us and Anna. I was shocked. Every time the doors opened and more people came in, I just couldn't believe it. God always out does what we think He is going to do. The event raised well over $3500.00, and people are still sending gifts!!! You know, the money is a real blessing...we have to have it in order to do what has to be done, BUT, the people...that was the real blessing. People that live in rural communities, not a lot of ethnicity present, came out for a little girl in China. They came out to show their love to us. They came out to show their love for our daughter...how can it get any better than that? Okay, if she were there, it would have been better :-) But, that will happen soon!
We are so thankful to all those that came, supported and/or sent well wishes for the event. We are thankful for their open hearts and loving spirit. We thank God for surrounding us with such loving family and friends. We are blessed! God's timing is perfect and His plans are complete - He doesn't leave us, He prepares a way for us. God shows us His love in many ways - this weekend He showed us through this event and through those that showed their support of us in our adoption. We will never forget it and we will pass along this story to Anna. She will grow up knowing that she was loved by many, long before she knew we existed. Thanking all of you for your support and sending love to my Anna.
