The Garrisons


Follow our journey on adoption #3 for child #8!

Friday, September 10, 2010

IT'S A.....

BOY....and a GIRL.....and a GIRL!!!!!

Yes, WE RECEIVED OUR REFERRAL!!!! And yes, you counted correctly, our referral is for THREE precious children. Some of you probably remember that our original request was for two children, but God had other plans....and we are so glad.

On Wednesday of this week we received a phone call from our agency's program director asking us if we would consider a referral 'a little outside of our request'. We had previously communicated to her that it was difficult for us to ask for certain ages and genders, because we really just wanted what God had for our family and to be a family for children who needed one. We had communicated that we were somewhat open - although we never mentioned three children!! Anyway, she went on to tell us about three siblings they wanted to keep together and were looking for a placement for. She told us that as she prayed for these kids, our family's name came to mind and she wanted to give us the opportunity to review their files for our consideration. To say I was shocked would be an understatement!!! We got off the phone agreeing that Nathan and I would talk and pray about it, and I would call her the next day.

After much conversation, prayer, consulting our kids (who were ALL for it), and talking to our social worker, we agreed that we wanted to move forward and review the kids' files. So, we took the next step asking God for either road blocks or open doors according to what He knew was best for these kids and for our family. (So far, only open doors!) Our social worker agreed to approve us for three children (instead of two) and do the necessary paperwork. This is what we anticipated could potentially be the first road block, but far from it. She agreed, and then even phoned back later to tell me what sense she thought this placement made for our family. To say this was a surprise....well, another understatement!!

So, on Thursday, I phoned our agency and told them we were ready to see the file! I was excited, overwhelmed, nervous, humbled, grieving (for their loss), feeling both inadequate and blessed all at the same time. Their pictures came through email.....they are precious. We can't wait to be their parents!! The children are a 1 year old boy, and two girls, 4 and 5. Perfect for our family....a buddy for Elijah and the two girls will have each other. Only God.

I have to share with you one other little detail that was like a little gift to me in the midst of all of this. The night before we got the first phone call, I shared with my girls that I really liked the name S******.... Love the name for a little boy, has a Biblical reference...just like it. Well, when we received our referral, I opened up the file and this little boy has that very. same. name. (can't share names until after we pass court). I couldn't believe it....what are the chances?? It was like God whispering in my ear that He was in the details....and I know He is.

Please pray for our kids....they have lost much and endured more than I can imagine in the last few months. We would appreciate your prayers for their little hearts. We are humbled and amazed that God is using us to be their family. We know the road will be sometimes difficult, but also feel a great peace that these are our kids. Thanks be to God....for this indescribable gift!

13 comments:

Christi said...

wow.. wow... wow! Praying for you - and so excited for you!

Praying that God continues to swing doors wide open as He reveals His plans for your (big) family!

Love you Kathy!

Beth said...

I just feel so blessed to know all of you and call you my friends. Congratulations and we are praying for you. :)

The Davidsons said...

That is soooo exciting!! Congratulations Garrison Family!!

Brad and Tara said...

WOW!!! Congrats!!! God is awesome!! Praying everything moves smoothly from here!!

Jen said...

I am so happy for you Kathy. It is so awesome to see God at work in such specific ways. My heart is overwhelmed thinking of the blessings that God is sending your way. He is GOOD!

missy said...

what an amazing story...perfectly orchestrated by God.

Gina said...

Crying as I read this post Kathy. Isn't God amazing...He is definitely in ALL the details! Can't wait to see their faces and follow your journey to them!

Unknown said...

I LOVE that you all were so willing to step out and follow God's lead! What an amazing journey. CONGRATS!

Gretchen Magruder said...

Oh. My. Goodness. I am so excited about what God is doing in your family!! Congratulations!

Jodes and Boz said...

WOW! i love seeing how God has plans even better than our own!! I'm so happy for your family! and that fact that he had the same name... ONLY GOD! Will be praying for you.

Barbra King said...

Just wanted to say again how excited I am for you guys and your new kids. I am sorry they have had loss, but I look forward to their healing in your arms through HIM!
Barbra

Hollands said...

I am sooooo excited for you guys. Can't wait to see their pics. Praying for healing for their hurts.
Gina

Debb said...

Praise GOD! Such an incredible story! I LOVE seeing Him bring exactly the right family members together! The whole name detail is beyond amazement, and SO GOD! LOVE IT! Enjoy staring at your kiddos, and may they be in your arms very soon! :o)