big things

This past month Mike and I decided, after much prayer, to stop "trying" to have a baby at this point in time. This decision was extremely tough as we are not getting any younger and our friends and family all seem to be experiencing the joys of a little one (including our entire young marrieds small group). This decision was made to both guard our hearts and make sure we truly are focused on God's will for our lives, whatever that looks like.

Since surrendering our family to God and His timing, He has quickly shown Mike and I that He has another purpose for us right now. For longer then I can remember, both Mike and I have had a heart for African orphans. The potential to adopt has always been on our radar and has always been from Africa. The desire to serve and love this population has always been present and always been strong. Upon giving up the desire to get pregnant to God's will, we were quickly presented with an opportunity. An orphan ministry in Uganda needs help and they need it from people uniquely gifted with the gifts and experiences God gave Mike and I. We have the opportunity to go to Uganda for a few weeks this April-May to assist in strengthening the team and children served by Hines Ugandan Ministry. This trip will not be inexpensive and traveling to a third-world country just the two of is is scary but we feel we are following God's calling and that is never wrong.

Why we believe God is calling us to Uganda:

•	Uganda is the third poorest country in the world.
•	The total population of the country is over 28.1 million people.
•	Over 51% of the population is under the age of 14.
•	Orphans are now over 10% of the total population - that is over 2.8 million orphans.
•	One of every six people in Uganda is dying of the AIDS virus.

I can't wait to share more about our trip when we return! We feel so blessed to be used in this way and know we will come back changed forever.