We did it. We traveled to winter…I mean, Michigan…and we gala-ed it up with about 500 people out there. And, it was wonderful.

I actually took a nap in front of a fireplace at the bed and breakfast where we stayed…which I have to share before anything else because it was that heavenly.

But, that’s not why we trekked into winter.

We celebrated family and the redemptive work God does through adoption at the Adoption Associates annual gala. Mark did a great job setting the tone for that and sharing about our story and The Sparrow Fund (pretty proud of that man). And, we got to hear from Stephanie Fast who has an absolutely incredible story of redemption. Making the trip just to hear and meet her would have been reason enough. But, on top of all that, we got to spend time with dear friends who were the ones who suggested Mark for this honor and took care of us while we were there.

And, I’m ashamed that this silly picture is the only one we got together.

At least it serves as proof that we were there together.

Thankful today for kindred spirits who love God, who understand the blessing and challenges of adoption, who desire to serve, and who support and encourage us as we serve as well.

Yeah, we’re not headed to Orlando.

And, while that would be awesome, this weekend is still going to be awesome…even with those temperatures.

We have the pleasure of heading out to Grand Rapids, Michigan (Yes, I spelled that out because I couldn’t remember the abbreviation). And, we couldn’t be more excited. Mark has the honor of speaking at the annual Adoption Associates gala (because he’s a rockstar and totally awesome). I get to wear a pretty new dress that my mom and dad bought for me and cheer him on while I sit among the hundreds of guests there. So excited. Would it be totally inappropro to hold up poster board that says “I love that man” or “I’m with HIM!” Probably. My nice dress and big smile will have to suffice.

AND, we get to spend a few hours at Calvin College tomorrow to talk to students about China. AND, we get to spend time with dear friends and meet their daughters in person finally. AND, we get to stay at a bed and breakfast that has a fireplace in our room apparently (#spoiled). AND, we get to share at a church Sunday morning for a few minutes.

I can’t imagine a better way to start Thanksgiving week.

Bring on the winter weather. We’ll be on the red eye out to you, Grand Rapids, Michigan.