suebee

That was beautiful Ellen.

Congratulations Teri and Stephen!!

This is so sad. John and Kay were in our orientation group more than 12 years ago. They were againers, and (as many of you can relate) it was so encouraging to meet a couple who had been through the process before and to see their adorable son. I always enjoyed seeing Kay at our annual Memphis area picnic and definitely missed her this year. My prayers for John, the boys, and their first families as they grieve the loss of their wife, mom, and friend.

Congratulations Chris and Judy! I love your son's name.

Great story....and perspective Jackie! Was Melissa paid for with any farm animals?

My co-worker actually has the kids' version on her desk and we read that one sometimes... I like how it gets the message across. Even for an adult, it's just easier to digest sometimes! Good to know Melissa. I have the "adult" version and have been thinking about ordering the kids' version to read with the kids at breakfast in the morning.

It all makes sense! Thanks for sharing Hannah. I like what you said about looking back and seeing signs, but not using those to confirm a decision.

I couldn't agree more! Great insight. Thanks for sharing!

Great news Mari!

I read that article too Elizabeth, and can definitely see the truth in a lot of it. I think the key factor is that parents who want to raise children of faith have a solid foundation of faith themselves. I think kids learn to value what their parents value (not what they SAY they value, but what they SHOW they value). The last two Sunday messages at my church were on parenting and training up a child in the way they should go. Like the apostle John, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 1:4)

I don't mind at all if you want to share my story with her. She is blessed that you have walked the road before her, although I know it is not something either of you would wish for the other.

Praying for good results with the MRI and for God to calm your anxious hearts.

Congratulations on the arrival of your precious daughter! Sending many loving thoughts for her first momma who is experiencing a double loss. May this be the beginning of a lifelong and beautiful friendship.

Jen, Your post is lovely. I could not agree more. Kevin and I went to a benefit for a charity we support in the Houston area last night. Listening to some of the testimonials made me realize that God, really truly is everywhere. We just might not realize it at the time. I was in awe listening to Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, speak of their journey in faith. I struggle with my faith at times. I think most people do. As my younger sister is battling infertility, I have to believe that there will be a answer to her and her husband's prayers. Whether it is through adoption, IUI or IVF. I was asking Kevin why she is having to go through what we went through and he said he does not know, but who are we to question. He said her road might have some twists and turns but the road her and her husband are on is worth traveling. We were placed with Alexander almost 16 months ago and I can honestly say there is not a day goes by that I do not think about M-I and the love she has for Alexander. We hope to hear from her again one day. She is missed. Leah, My younger sister also faced infertility, and I thought it was so unfair at the time. She is younger but married and began trying to start her family before me. My husband and I were led to pursue adoption before her and her husband, but as a result, their hearts were opened to adoption too. Now we both have two precious kids each! And we have a very strong bond through our shared infertility. I can definitely see God's hand in all of it.

Mari, I just wanted to tell you that you are such a blessing to this community. Your insight and wisdom are so valuable. You always have a level head and loving heart in the words you share, and I appreciate you so much! Thank you for taking the time to be a part of the forum.

Yay! Hope you hear something soon!

Wow! The first Abrazo baby of 2013! Congratulations to this couple, and loving prayers for this precious girl's first family. This is happy news to get my Monday going!

Yes! That is beautiful. Hard to grasp...but life-changing potential!

Wow, this hits close to home as I am approaching my 46th birthday. I am praying for her family as well.

Congratulations!!

I am so excited for you guys!!! Congratulations!

Congratulations Fran and Mark!! Blessings on you and your precious son!

Congratulations to the newest families!! So much to be thankful for...

Our CPA specializes in this! Both times the IRS has come back asking for things, it was something we'd already sent (and had copies of having sent in!) Our poor CPA is ready to bang his head on the wall, I think. I feel like we're always the exception to the rule in some way in our lives, so I can't say I'm surprised when things like this happen. I'm just trying to sit back and smile that maybe God is putting us on hold for a little while longer. You have the right to call the IRS taxpayer advocate service when the "normal" IRS channels cause you undue hardship. In other words the IRS taking way too long is affecting your ability to move forward with other plans. Google IRS taxpayer advocate and call. Your CPA does not need to call you can take care of it yourself. Actually I have it right here. IRS Taxpayer advocate 877-777-4778 I was going to suggest the same thing. We were actually referred to a taxpayer advocate last year by someone at the IRS because of not receiving our adoption tax credit after we had submitted all requested paperwork (but I understand like Suzi said that you can request one yourself). It helped us to get a quick resolution.

Mandi, Some of my favorite Bible studies are those written by Beth Moore. You can find them at lifeway.com. If I think of any others I will let you know. Also, Lysa Terkeurst has written a great book called "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl." It was very helpful to me.