Introducing Gabriel Mugisha...

What happens when all four kids and a husband leave the house for a surprise airport pickup?

Mom finally has time to BLOG!

And what happens when I sit down to blog, with a head and heart that is full beyond words?

I stare at an empty screen. Then write. Then delete. Then write again.

There is so much to say. So much God has done. So much we're thankful for. And, so much our hearts are heavy for. It will take weeks to catch up. But, let's get to the most important thing of all right now:

By the grace of God, and because of the prayers of SO many, we are humbled and honored and absolutely ELATED to introduce our son, Gabriel Mugisha.

Although we haven't been able to share each step of the last month, we appreciate so many of you who have been walking this road with us, and who have supported us even in the hard times. After a month in Africa, we are home. Our little family of six. And, we are so thankful.

God has made Himself known, even on days we didn't understand all that was happening. But, ultimately, through every detail, we have watched God’s plans come about for our family. And, more importantly, for His little one, Gabriel.

There is such an amazing story of rescue and redemption to share, when the time is right. A story that I still can’t believe now belongs to our family. A story where you can literally SEE the hand of God weaving a tapestry of people together, for the life of one child, who He saw and He loved and He created for His glory.

It has confirmed what I already knew about our great God. He places the lonely in families in HIS way in HIS time and for HIS glory. He sees and hears the orphan’s cry and He will not leave even one to fight alone. He delights in each one of His children, and will move heaven and earth to bless them and rescue them. And, He is a gracious giver of all good things.

I want to share so much about Gabe with you all. With time. But, I have to pace myself. Because there are way more important things to do right now than blog. (Like kiss this little face hundreds of times a day.)

Or feed bottles and cuddle...

Or tickle tummies and giggle...

I will tell you these things though:

...I was on a plane to Rwanda as I typed most of this entry the first time. And, I am amazed how true every word is...even more so this many weeks later.

...I have learned so much about myself, my amazing husband, and my girls through this process. It has affected and changed each of us deeply, and I am more thankful than ever for the family God allows me to live life with.

...We've been on quite a journey over the last three and a half years, and still, the family and friends who surround us every step of the way, continue to amaze me...it's simply beyond words. There have been many days along the way where specific prayer requests have been shot out to an email list of loved ones. And, the tears come so easily, as dozens and dozens of messages come in, full of words of encouragement and joy and the word of God, to strengthen us and encourage us. You all make us better people, stronger people. It's why God gave us community and we humbly thank each of you for your love, for us and our children.

...I have never in my life felt so many emotions at the same time. Joy and gratitude for this amazing boy God has made ours. Awe at the way God has worked! Inspiration as I see the doors He is opening and the relationships He is building for His orphaned ones. Sadness for the children who remain behind, waiting for a family of their own. And, at times, absolute confusion as the world of many waiting families was turned upside down, even as we finished this process of adoption in Rwanda. Every day, I look at Gabe with such gratitude and love, but still have other hurting children reflect back in his beautiful eyes...and I pray more than ever for adoption in Rwanda. And, for families who have answered the call, and are now waiting for God's next step. Lord, make a way!

...I, and my family, have been witness to the great spiritual battle that is taking place in the world of orphan care and adoption. In three different situations, very close to our hearts, Satan has tried desperately to stop orphaned children from knowing God's great purpose for their life. I’ve never seen the enemy fight harder than I have this year in all aspects of our work with orphans. Satan wants these children as his own. He wants orphans to never know the power of God’s love and healing. But, all glory be to God...HE who was and is and is to come...HE who has already claimed the victory and He who IS winning the battle. It's so fun to watch Him win.

Okay, more blogs to come, soon. We sure love our sweet Gabey Baby, Gabers, Mugisha, and Little Buddy so much. And, we can't wait to share even more about him with you! Thank you for praying him home.