"He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will."
-Ephesians 1:5

As a result of China's one-child policy and a traditional preference for male children, many of the baby girls are left orphaned. Because boys take care of the elderly parents, and a daughter marries into the husband's family, it becomes crucial to the family to have a son. This leaves thousands of bright, beautiful baby girls in China available for adoption.

It is estimated that up to 300,000 children are abandoned each year and a very small percentage of these babies are adopted around the world. Americans adopted a little over 7,900 Chinese children in 2005.

"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding: In all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
-Proverbs 3:5-6

Why China?  Well, in a nutshell, because He told us to.  Many were surprised at our announcement that we were going to adopt a daughter from China.  In a way, we were surprised, too!  But sometimes that is what happens when you commit to follow God:  His plan might be different than what you may have come up with on your own.  Living out our faith, we have learned that God's plan is always better.

"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart."
-Psalm 37:4

Adoption wasn't a new idea to us.  Over the years we have lightly discussed the idea, then suddenly it seemed that circumstances lined up and repeatedly pointed the way to growing our family through adoption.  Scripture seemed to jump off the page.  We prayed and prayed, and received confirmation.  Adding to our family through adoption has become the desire of our hearts.   We know that all of us will be blessed by bringing a baby girl into our family.
 

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." -Joshua 1:9

One of our biggest issues with the China adoption has been the long trip to China.  There are so many questions - What will we do with the boys?  Should Steve go with me or stay and take care of them?  Should all four of us go?  How safe is it over there?  Steve and I found this quote in Joshua while doing our daily Bible reading and it calmed our fears.  He will take care of us.