On Monday, January 28th Westin and I received the email we had been approved and licensed foster parents.  We were overjoyed the process was finally over and ready to receive a child down the road.  It's funny saying that now :)  We've never really had any expectations, just that we wanted to bless kids.  

Well God apparently has a sense of humor and had us on the fast track to being parents.  While I was working at the church I received a call that was listed unknown.  Well in the past I would not have answered but I was told by a dear friend I couldn't do that anymore because all social workers have their number blocked.  You can imagine my heart dropping when I saw the caller listed as unknown.  I answered very calm even thought I was freaking out inside.  I wanted to sound like I was normal.  On the other end a social worker (un-named for privacy) introduced herself and told me that she was reading over our home study and proceeded to tell me she was on her way to pick up a 9 day old baby girl.  She then said, "How do you feel about being a mommy?"  At this point I am having a little trouble breathing and evening processing my thoughts so I say, "Ok!"  Micah's social worker continued by telling me that she was named Baby Girl because sadly mom didn't want to see or name her.  The biological mom specifically requested Baby Girl to be adopted.  Once again, I am still having trouble breathing and even comprehending what the social worker is saying because all I can focus on is the fact that we are even going to get a 9 DAY OLD BABY GIRL.  She finishes by telling me that nothing is final because the state legally has to search for the father and give him an opportunity to claim his child.  I say I understand and would still like to take the baby into care while the state works on those particulars.  Well before hanging up she tells me she is going to be at my house in about two hours and asks me if I am ready.  I say, "Well if I am not I have a TON of people in my community that can help me out."

After hanging up I started to freak out thinking of all the things I still needed.  One of the pastors and staff members at our church prayed over me and then I shouted to one of my intern co-worker, "Come on, we need to go to the store!"  I am so glad Kathie was there because her calmness was a lifesaver!  Running through the store to get bottles, some clothes (she didn't come with anything), socks, and all kinds of stuff Kathie knew I needed was pretty funny.  She was laughing at me the whole time. 

We got home and started getting everything ready for Baby Girl's arrival.  Oh by the way, before going to the store, I called Westin :)  The social worker was good to remind me to call him.  His boss let him go so he was able to meet us at the store.  As we waited for her arrival I can't even tell you the emotions I had.  I think my face was hurting because I had a constant smile on my face.  

And then the door bell rang...

WOW, she was so tinny and beautiful.  All I wanted to do is get her out the car seat and hold her but I didn't want to seem overly excited.  Sometimes that freaks people out because my excitement can be a little overwhelming.  The social worker pulled out a bunch of paperwork, told us a lot of information and FINALLY asked, "Well, who wants to take her?"  I of course didn't say anything but Westin pointed to me.  He knew how excited I was.  

After they left we were in shock.  We discussed what to name her and shared equal hesitation with naming her "our" girl name we have always thought we would name our first girl.  In the end we know that whether she says with us or goes to another family, she will be blessed with a beautiful name that will always be from us.  

So here we are...she is 11 days now and we couldn't be more in love with her.  She is sleeping through the night, eating great and we are getting to know each other.  We don't know how long we will have her.  The state is pushing for adopting but nothing is final until the judge says so.  There have been so many evidences of God's grace.  Although Micah tested positive for two types of drugs, she shows no signs of withdrawal or effects from the drugs.  We have seen nothing but grace and favor from the Lord with the timing of her arrival to how gracious Micah is to us as new parents.  We are so blessed. 

Today was especially lovely for Micah and I.  While putting her to sleep after feeding I started to read to her the book "God Found Us You."  The book is about a Little Fox asking his mom about the day he came into the family.  Mama proceeds to tell the Little Fox about how she prayed for him and how she waited and waited for his arrival.  She tells him about how she knew God would one day bring him to her.  With tears in my eyes I am reading the book to Micah Grace thinking how I have prayed and waited for God to bring her to us.  She is here now and we cannot be more thankful for her little life.  Praying for God's glory to shine bright through this miracle baby, Micah Grace. 

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.