April 5 & 6: We traveled to Tim and Liz's the first weekend in April. They invited us to attend a banquet for Bethany Christian Services. This is the adoption agency they used to adopt their little guy, Cameron. We loved being able to support them as they included us in their adoption story. We also know other friends and relatives who have adopted children through Bethany's program.
We were excited to learn more about the ministry that Bethany offers. The night was filled with great fellowship and amazing testimonies from families who had adopted, a birth-mom who gave her little one up for adoption (and is now married, expecting a baby, and in school for social work so she can help other moms going through similar experiences), and a couple who is involved in the "safe families" program (a program designed to keep children out of the foster care system for a temporary time while their parent/s are experiencing difficulties). We were blown away by the different ministries that Bethany offers--their program is not just about getting children adopted, but rather "sustaining life". They offer free counseling and support to young mothers who are facing difficult decisions (and their support/counseling does not stop after baby is born--they see these moms through as long as they need help). The keynote speakers for the evening were Andy & Jennifer Bennes (Andy is a former MLB pitcher). Their story of faith and love for orphans was inspiring--they had 4 biological children and added 2 more children to their family through international adoption... and "may not be done yet"! We loved being able to enjoy this encouraging night with our amazing friends!
The banquet was on Friday evening so we took Sadie out of school right before lunch and enjoyed a "picnic" lunch in the car. It was nice to arrive at our destination before 10 pm (our normal when we travel on Friday nights!) Tim and Liz hired sitters for our 5 kids and the 2 girls did an awesome job! Tim had a baseball double header on Saturday so Marc went with him to hang out for the day. Liz and I were able to enjoy a relaxing laid-back Saturday with the kiddos...
Fashion/Talent Show:
Enjoying some of the first warm days of spring...
Picnic in the Park:
We even managed a movie/quiet time! When the guys got back we had dinner together and then took off to head home. (We needed to be home Sunday for Kinnick's first soccer game after church!) Loved having this weekend with our friends and can't wait to see them again later this month!
1 comment:
Thanks for loving us before, through, after our adoption and now! We are so blessed to have you in our lives! Thanks for the great information about Bethany too! Love you!
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