June 29, 2010

Good Morning! We've got another busy day on tap for "The Brown's". We're about to go pick bluberries at my granddaddy's house and then Will has another practice game tonight. The Glenoce majors start playing this Friday night in the All-Star tournament in Collinsville so good luck to our boys who have worked so hard this summer! In between, we're going to celebrate Ashley, Griff & Mom's departure to China. Griff, my brother-in-law, wanted Mata's pizza before he left for China so we're going to honor that request and have Mata's pizza this afternoon! Needless to say, our family is always looking for a reason to eat Mata's pizza!

This whole journey has been surreal for our family. Ashley & Griff began this process in late September and some people wait years for closure but God blessed Ashley & Griff with the gift of time and they've sailed through compared to most people! On the other hand, it's like when you find out you're expecting- 9 months seems so long away and you think it will never come and before you know if you're holding that precious baby! We've experienced that same "pregnancy" feeling with Mia. We knew she was coming but it just seemed like a dream and that it might not ever really happen. Like I've said before, we consider our family to be honored and blessed that God has chosen us for Mia. She's going to bless so many people.... I just know it!

Darin and I attend North Glencoe Baptist Church and we have an awesome pastor, Bro. David Denson. He preaches such practical, life-applying sermons that make you feel like you can become a better Christian each and everyday. He's been preaching a series of sermons called "Suffering Well". Like Bro. David said one Sunday... you'll never have a testimony without a test"! He also reminds us that "God never wastes a hurt". We all have endured hurts, hang-ups, trials & tribulations but we can still "let our little light shine" during these times. Even though Mia has been in an orphange in China since she was just a few days old, she awaits a BIG earthly blessing! She will have opportunities here to serve Christ that she would've never had in China. And just think about her birth mom... how happy she would be to know Mia is finally safe and sound with the family God intended for her all along! So... my sister has suffered well! She has invested her heart & soul, finances, family, time away from work, etc. because she felt led to do this. I admire her & Griff so much for following where God led. Please pray for safe travels to and from China, and for Mia's adjustment period. I'm praying Mia will sense the love and that the Holy Spirit will surround Ashley, Griff, Mom & Mia each day.

And just think.... the next time we have Mata's pizza for dinner- Mia will be here to eat some too! LOL!

Have a great Tuesday and remember to....Count your blessings!

Allison