We MATCHED!

You are about to read the best story ever! Buckle-up, grab some tissues and enjoy!

It was just a regular week. It had been a couple months since we had received a case to apply for and honestly, I was beginning to fall into a hopeless state. The adoption journey is not for the faint of heart. Though, there are some high points, like getting to experience the warmth of God's love through a supportive community and receiving encouraging words and not to mention experiencing successful fundraising! Yall rock for real.

Okay, let's get to good stuff.

It was VBS week and kiddos were being picked up from our morning session. I remember staring off into the distance pondering this life - yes, I get lost in deep thoughts - when my phone rang. It was Lisa Mosely, I thought to myself "who is this and why do I know them?" as soon as I answered I remembered it was Lisa with Adoption Assistance. She is who we work with during our Home Study updates etc. Usually, we communicate only through email. I was thinking "oh, it's time to start renewing our home study so that is why she's calling." Well, she called to let us know about a case that she thought we would be perfect for. I instantly felt my soul leave my body and my hands began to tingle. Yes, the dramatics are necessary. I truly felt like I was hovering over my body during the whole phone call and at for at least an hour after! We chatted for a bit and I had her send over the information about the case. It was a case through the Marshallese (Marshall Islands) program. Lisa mentioned that they have placed several successful and happy matches with this program and other Adoption Assistance staff also recommended it personally. Kevin and I felt a deep sense of connection to this program. We felt like we were stepping out in faith in applying for this specific case.

A whole week later....

It was just a regular Tuesday and I had been home working as usual. It was about 4pm I was wrapping up with work and I decided to put on some worship jams. After a few minutes my phone starts ringing... it's the attorney! I was temporarily frozen as I stared at my phone (at least it felt that way) I answered and as calmly as possible said "This is Rachel" to which the reply was "Hi Rachel, this is Vaughn, Adoption Assistance sent over your profile, and I wanted to let you know that the birth mother chose you!"

Insert Shock!!

SHE WHAT?? - SHE CHOSE US!!!

I said several things that I honestly barely remember but he then let me know that she in fact made her decision the week before, but he wanted to make sure some documents were signed, and she was solid on her decision before calling. I couldn't believe it!! Afterwards I immediately called Kevin to share the news. All I could do was scream SHE PICKED US! SHE PICKED US!! We were able to set up a video call with her that night and had a sweet, sweet conversation and felt so much peace with all that was happening.

God really does work in mysterious ways! There are so many little details about this case and even this people group that really can only lead back to Him. We are still in shock that this is happening!