I need to take a moment to thank each one of you who has left a comment about my Tell it Well series. It has done my heart good to hear from you and know that my story is helpful to you, or to your sister, husband, or friend. Despite the joys we experience, this world and this life bring suffering, and we have to keep reminding one another of the truly good news, that Jesus journeys with us through the darkness. Thank you for reading, thinking, praying, and commenting.
I know it is poor blogging to be in the midst of this series and suddenly not post for three days. Life keeps happening and despite my best intentions to sit down and continue on with my story, it hasn’t been possible. That kind of writing requires quiet with few interruptions – a rare thing for me. I fully intend to pick up where I’ve left off as soon as possible.
We had a great weekend! My friend, Marissa, has a daughter from Honeybee and Dimples’ orphanage, AHOPE. Marissa’s daughter had a wish to dance with her father at a ball, and Wishing Star made her wish come true. Signe (who also has a daughter from AHOPE) and I loaded up nine of our daughters (four of mine and five of hers) and traveled to Boise for this special event. The girls brought their fanciest dresses, jewelry and make up, and had a great time getting beautiful.
They enjoyed riding in a limo, dinner, and dancing. I loved seeing them together and really enjoyed my time with Signe as we drove 300 miles down and back. We managed some good conversation while sipping coffee with Marissa before heading home, too, so although it was an event for our daughters, we moms enjoyed our time as well.
In addition to the girls being from the same orphanage, Marissa’s daughter and one of her sons were also neighbors of Dimples’ when she was little. It nearly made me cry when their older brother (now an adult) saw Dimples and recognized her. How I wish I could sit with him for an hour or two and ask him questions about her early life – maybe some day.
If I let myself think too much about it, if I remember the poverty, the rags for clothes, the dearth of food, and I contrast that with girls in glittering gowns, a three-tiered cake, and joyful dancing, it wrecks me and leaves me in tears.
#641 – 650 giving thanks
changed lives, from devastating poverty and vulnerability to the shelter of a loving family
orphans no longer
powerful medications that save lives
and the beautiful children with sparkling eyes and dimples in their cheeks
safety on the drive to Boise and back
Signe’s calm confidence driving her big van in snow
a genuine “thank you” from Dimples without being prompted
a long walk in the snow with Russ yesterday morning
Ladybug cooking dinner last night
Russ – did I already mention him? Russ…so very thankful
Lisa
Very fun! So glad you all were able to have this time! Your girls are all so beautiful!
Wow, that is so wonderful! What a memorable experience for all the girls!
Lisa, take all the time you need to tell your story. We can wait and your children can not. Thank you for sharing the girl's dance. Precious! Makes me think of Steven Curtis Chapman's Cinderella song.
Ann, that is the very song Tsigerda and her father danced too. It was precious.
I was completely transfixed by your story but never managed to comment… I am in awe of what God has done in you Lisa, an amazed by your courage to share it. Take your time, but keep going!
Your last paragraph brought me straight to tears…
I will wait patiently for you to tell your story. Take your time and do it well. :-)
I too hve been following with a hole in my chest for your ache and sorrow. But also with joy in being able to see your transformation thru it now in the arc of your life. Such grace and richness there. I haven't commented bc my heart was wrung tight … In the midst of the struggles of this month here too. But..oh yeah… Following along with love. And the girls at the dance?? Gorgeous!
I forgot to mention…the girls look gorgeous! And oh, so happy!
I like this little interlude. Your story is a blessing, take your time writing it, God has. Thanks for the coffee, conversation, and prayer down that snowy hill!
I am waiting on tip toe anticipation for the rest of your story! Your life and lessons are blessing me tremendously and teaching me so much as we wait patiently to adopt waiting children here in our state. I will continue checking several times a day for part 5! Thank you for sharing!
Leia
P.S. Your girls look gorgeous!
Leia, there was a brief window when the kids were outside sledding today and I thought I would sit down to write – but it passed so quickly that I didn't get much done. I hope to have a good opportunity to write soon! Thanks for checking in.