Dear Kolya,
Sixteen years ago today a mother labored to bring you into this world. She knew she didn’t have the ability to raise you, but she lovingly gave you life. She didn’t know what your life would look like.
But God knew.
Sixteen years ago today I was busy raising a nine-year-old daughter, a six-year-old son, and a three-year-old daughter. I thought our family was complete. Little did I know that I had another son that I’d give birth to in a few years and that I had a son on the other side of the world in Russia.
But God knew.
Sixteen years ago today a little girl was deep within her mother’s womb. She would eventually come into this world three months later and find herself in the same orphanage as you. Nadia would become like a sister to you. Six years later, she would be adopted by the Cavanagh family who live just a couple of miles from us. Little did anyone know that she would be the link that would connect you to us.
But God knew.
Sixteen years ago today, a woman named Luba was caring for children in the Shummerly Orphanage. You would eventually end up in her care. She didn’t know that many of the children in her care would find homes with families in a place called Normal, Illinois, and that she would even end up being able to visit them here.
But God knew.
Sixteen years ago today, a baby was born. He was “knit together in his mother’s womb….where he was fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13-14) No one knew that he would have the ability to build structures like someone far beyond his years. No one knew that he would be able to run effortlessly and win races. No one knew he would reach out to the unlovable and to be such a friend to the friendless. No one knew that he would become a young man after God’s own heart.
God has been guiding your life and leading your steps. He will continue to do that because “he knows the plans that he has for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Happy 16th birthday, Kolya.
Our God is so good. Happy birthday, Koyla! You are blessed.
What a sweet post! I also wrote a 'happy birthday' post yesterday – only my little guy turned 5. I hope your family had as much fun celebrating life yesterday as we did!
The way God works in our lives is just so amazing!
Thanks for sharing how God is always working in our lives, even though we for get sometimes.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Kolya!
Such a sweet birthday post! Praise God for his plan and timing in every aspect of our lives.
God bless you and your family!
Bethany
Jill – this made me teary. Beautiful post. Our God's plans are amazing aren't they!
Celebrating Kolya with you and GOD at work in your lives!
Love this post! God has planted the seed of adoption in my heart and this post was very encouraging!
What a treat to read your story as our family starts the process of Foster Care to Adopt. An adventure God has placed on our hearts and we follow joyfully to see what He has planned. Thank you for so beautifully sharing your story!
Jill,I visited your blog a few days ago, and now I read your posts….you touched my heart with this and the next writing. To understand me I write only this: I have two dreams: 1. having a dauther next to the two boys. 2. Adopting an orphan kid. I have been praying every day, that God show me the right way, and the right time……I have been thinking of your adoption story a lot.
Last but not least: HAPPY BIRTHDAY KOLYA!!!!
Nikoletta
This is a beautiful post, Jill! Gave me goosebumps and tears of happiness for Kolya and your family. God is SO good! Happy Birthday to your son!
Jill,
Touched by adoption in my family and now working for Bethany Christian Services with couples that are adopting this was such a gift to me. Thank you for the reminder of God's perfect plan for our life and our children's lives!!
Lisa Brewer
yea!!!!!!! Happy birthday, Kolya!!!
soooo Sweet! Made me tear up!!
Happy b-day late…
I have 2 adopted kids which are the joy of my life …I can relate to your blessing