In conversation the other day, I had someone ask me (and apologized if it was offensive) how we afford our adoptions. I know this can be a touchy topic for many adoptive parents, but we have made the decision that it is in the best interest of our God led adoption process to share the ups and downs (including the finances) of international adoption.
So, my answer was simple...we are broke! :) Not in the sense that we can't pay our bills or provide for our children but we are not able to do whatever, whenever. We have to be better stewards of our money and how we spend it. It is not easy to say no...espcially when you see the flat screen tv's and you still have the good ole tube type or the new laptops, macs especially, or when other families go on vacation and you do the good ole staycation! Both of us also have taken on 2nd jobs and Scott is holding his paid for vehicle together with duct tape. We had contemplated purchasing an RV for a long time. Friends of ours earlier this year asked us if we had decided to buy one...we said nope, we decided to adopt instead. This is a choice we have made, but it's not really a choice to adopt; it is a choice to follow God's word and his will.
So, I guess to others who haven't been to our home, looked in our closets, watched us clip coupons, and budget both monthly and weekly, it looks like we have tons of money to throw away. It's not true, however, and our check books reflect it! :) We have a wonderful church family, great credit, and a wonderful Lord and Savior who has provided for us each step of the way. Although He doesn't speak to us in a loud, booming voice, we know we are headed in the right direction, His direction.
This is Adoption Awareness Month. International adoption may not be your calling, but there are other ways to help through various charitable organizations such as Sho Hope, No Hands But Ours, An Orphan's Wish and several others I would be happy to share with you.
