Next Chapter

If you follow me on FB or Twitter, you know by now that Stephen and I have decided to remove ourselves from the adoption process. Our reasons for coming to this decision are very personal and private. We simply ask that you respect this choice whether you agree with it or not. We know everyone who cares for us is sad and sorry that we are at this ending, but the best thing you can do for us is support us in our new endeavors.

We know we would have enjoyed parenthood immensely. I feel as though I would have been a good mother, and I know Stephen would have been a fabulous father. We made the choices we were comfortable making to pursue children, but the Lord does not always allow us the desires of our hearts. What Jesus does guarantee, however, is that our needs will be met. Always.

Looking forward, we will be making some decisions about where we are headed. We have personal goals we will be setting individually and also decisions to be made about where to go forward as husband and wife.

On the outline for this next chapter:

Home: Stephen has put in for a possible transfer to his company's new office in Denver. While this is just an option right now, it's something we will look into. If we decide this is not in our best interest, we may look at moving into a new home around here or Austin in a couple of years.

Health: I've got the urge to start running. Call me crazy, but if I get enough bras on, I think I can do it. If anyone has a Couch-5K plan, please share.

Travel: We've got the burning itch to get "off the grid" on vacation. I figure this will take place sometime around May(ish). I'd also like to start camping regularly.

Volunteer: I am beginning to take on more responsibilities as a volunteer with the Animal Advocates and Keep America Beautiful groups. I get so much joy from helping these groups that improve the lives of others. I've also been developing a deep desire to start serving in inner-city ministries. This is something I'm going to be looking into.

Beyond the next chapter:

Family: For this chapter we will not be pursuing children. While we cannot say that we will never pursue them again, it is simply not on the table at this time. We're young-ish, so I figure in 3-4 years we may talk about it. At that time we will look into domestic, international, and foster adoption.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” —Psalm 32:8