Loss of Symonne's Referral

Dear Friends and Family,

It is with heavy hearts that we write to let you know that we will not be able to complete the adoption of Symonne.  Her Ethiopian family situation has changed and she is now able to return to them. This is a rare situation that can happen with International Adoptions. In many ways we are so happy for her and we pray that it goes well.

Our hearts are sad for our loss of this precious girl that we were anxiously awaiting to meet and bring home.  The loss is real, but we believe God gave her to us for a ‘season’ to love and pray so much for her. This is His story for her life and she will always hold a precious piece of our hearts.

We thank you for your prayers for her and also for our family as we process this news. There is much in this world that we may not understand, but we do have peace that this situation is in the hands of God and we trust Him. We will continue to wait and see who God has in store for our family. He has been so faithful.

With all of our love and thanks for your continued prayers,

Brian & Cherise, BJ, Zach and Ellyana

Verse and Song the Lord gave us yesterday before the news:

Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.

’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,

Just to take Him at His Word;

Just to rest upon His promise,

And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

    Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!

    How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er;

    Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

    Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,

Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;

And I know that Thou art with me,

Wilt be with me to the end.