The Krauses are finally DTE!!!!

Dear Ryan & Britany,

Welcome to the Waiting Stage of your adoption from Ethiopia! You have successfully completed the paper chasing process and your dossier has been sent to Ethiopia via FedEx. Congratulations again on a job well done! Though the waiting stage of the process can be difficult, we encourage you to take advantage of this time to keep learning about Ethiopian culture, to develop new skills that will prepare you to parent an adopted child or children, and also to explore God’s character as someone waiting in anticipation of something great.  Remember that the whole adoption process is a journey, and the steps toward bringing a child home have begun!

I swear I heard a choir of angel voices break through the heavens! There was some praisin’ happening up in the Krause haus! NINE months of paper chasing/work…DONE!!!

What is DTE, you ask? DTE stands for “Dossier To Ethiopia”. This is the day America World submits the family’s dossier to Ethiopia. It is also the day the family is officially put on the waiting list for a referral, and thus the family’s waiting time begins on this date. .

?HUH?

What do you mean, “and thus the family’s waiting time begins…”? I thought y’all had been waiting!? I know. Hilarious, isn’t it? Up until today, we have only been working towards a spot on the waiting list. A few words of encouragement, it doesn’t necessarily take this long. The paper chasing phase usually takes about 4-6 months but we had that little road bump concerning my history of cancer. As soon as we get our official #, I will let you know!

Here is where I beg you for prayer. There is very little movement right now. Referrals are few and far between. America World has just given warning that the wait times will most likely be increasing. It’s heartbreaking. There are an estimated 5 million orphans needing mommies and daddies in Ethiopia. Meanwhile, there is a long list of mommies and daddies ready and willing to open their homes and hearts to these very orphans. I’m receiving countless emails from families who are calling for fasting and prayer due to few referrals and little movement…just doesn’t make sense.

Would you join us? Would you be willing to set the alarm on your smart phone to sound every Friday @ 9pm, CST? I am in love with the idea of us storming the gates of heaven on behalf of these children. Stop reading this blog right now and set your phone. Right now. Come on, just do it. Now, leave me a comment below with your email address and I will send you a prayer guide of specific things to pray for. It will also let me know who is going to be fighting this battle along side of us:) We would be so honored if you would.

One last thing, I wanted to let you know that tomorrow is Orphan Sunday. Churches from all over will come together, as a body of believers, to bring special attention to the plight of the orphan. We would love for you to join us tomorrow morning @ Hays Hills Baptist Church. Ryan and I will be giving our testimony and my brother and I will be singing. It’s sure to be an awesome time in the presence of our most awesome God<3 Early Service starts at 9:15am, Late 10:45am

xoxo,

Brit

P.S. WE ARE DTE!!!!! AND ONE STEP CLOSER TO LITTLE KRAUSE!!!!!

P.P.S. If you didn’t set your alarm for every Friday @ 9pm, DO IT NOOOW!!! Then remember to leave a comment:) You’re welcome and I love you, too.

 

Korah-“Cursed”

Just when I thought God could not possibly wreck me anymore, He did. He tore the veil even further from my eyes and I am a complete mess. COMPLETE MESS. I know what you’re thinking, "Britany, you’re already a mess.” Well, I’m talking way worse than before, and way messier.

I have recently been looking for a ministry in Ethiopia that we can get involved in. Ryan and I want to make a connection that will be in tact even after Little Krause comes home. We plan to return to Ethiopia over the years as much as financially possible and with the intention to serve.

Yesterday as I was surfing ministry websites I came across a documentary that told the story of the garbage dump of Korah Ethiopia. It’s something you have to see to believe.  Here is some information on Korah from Children’s Hope Chest:

Korah is a community that sits on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia next to the city garbage dump. The population of this once small community of lepers, has swelled to approximately 100,000 people. Many lepers, HIV/AIDS patients, orphans and widows struggle to survive in this community. People in Korah are forced to scavenge from the garbage dump for scraps of food to eat or plastics to sell for small amounts of money. The dump is a dangerous place – children have even been run over by the garbage trucks in their hurry to get to the “freshest” garbage first. Often, children are kept out of school so they can help dig in the dump or because there is no money for education. Sickness and infection run rampant in this community, deepening the problems the children face every day. The name Korah literally means “cursed”. The people in this community are the poorest of the poor and live as outcasts with little hope for change. 

It felt as if time stood still. The world around me faded away and it was just me, reality and God. All I could think was how disturbingly appropriate it was that these people, who are considered outcasts and trash, are living in and surviving on a garbage dump. It ruined me. I wish I could accurately describe the restlessness that began to grow inside of me. In those 15 minutes God lit a passion in me I cannot quench. I have walked around all week distracted and heavy.

I was crying on the phone to my sweet, patient husband, “Why THERE, Ryan?”, “Why can’t God give me a burning for the people of Buda”, “Why am I haunted by their eyes?”, “Why won’t God let me go?” He so matter of factly, and this is why I love him, said, “Because one of them could be our child, Britany.”

The harsh reality of his statement floored me…but made all the sense in the world. Why wouldn’t God break me for the people of Ethiopia? Why wouldn’t He create a longing in me to change their circumstances…my child is there. Did you get that? MY CHILD IS THERE RIGHT NOW. For all we know, Little Krause could be walking the streets of Korah as I type these very words. In the very least, these are his/her people. Ethiopia will be a part of our world forever through the adoption of our child. I’m beginning to make sense of it, God.

If you know me well, you know that I am not one to sit still when God speaks. Now, at first I may drag my feet…moving towards Him but still presenting my argument on why the direction, OVER THERE <-----, might be a better idea. But once I am resolved and surrendered, It’s ON:)

I told Ryan, “We have to go, baby. We have to go over there.” He so calmly shrugged and responded, “Ok, let’s go.” Do you see why God blessed me with this man!? I’ve always said I’m like a balloon floating all over while he securely holds my string. He is grounded and I am not and it’s a beautiful thing<3

I have spent my week emailing different people and organizations working in Korah. I’m sure my emails are a rambling mess, but I’m praying God translates as they read. My girlfriend Karen called me after we had lunch and told me she found what may be exactly the avenue to take. I pray so. I’m just a crazy, event planning, singer mom,  but I have to do something. I have to tell these people they are not cursed, that they are beautiful, loved craftsmanship of the Almighty God. They are not garbage and, most importantly, THEY ARE NOT FORGOTTEN.

I can only compare this time to when God started wrestling with me over adoption. It’s a little different as I am not resisting him, only searching for His direction. As He is removing the veil from my eyes a little at a time, it feels as though He is sloooowly peeling away a Band-Aid…from a very hairy arm:)

Maybe He knows to rip it off quickly would only mean a temporary heart change. The pain brief and fleeting. No, I suppose he knows that wouldn’t work with me. It must be a process. Sometimes messy, slow and painful but one that changes me forever.

Apology, Please!

It is no secret that we love the Texas Rangers. My dad raised me on a hearty diet of Steve Buchelle, Jeff Russell, Julio Franco, Nolan Ryan and so many more. On May 1, 1991 we went wild in the stands as Nolan pitched his 7th No-Hitter. His posters plastered my teenaged walls, beating out the Teen Beat pinups of Jared Letto and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Naturally, I fell in love with a baseball player. The night Ryan brought me home from our first date, my dad was sitting on the couch conditioning his glove. Ryan sat down beside him and they struck up an easy conversation. Baseball was his “in” with my dad. It’s something we all have in common, it’s a family affair and has produced a son/grandson who has baseball in his blood.

Now as much as we love TX Rangers Baseball, we love Jesus more. I mean, we are reckless up in this house about our Savior. It’s a rare occasion that you can mix the two, Jesus and baseball. Enter…Josh Hamilton.

Last year Josh rehabbed with Round Rock Express and my dad took Dylan to meet him. Late that night I was awakened by a bouncing 7 year old holding his wrist to my nose. “MOOOMM, LOOK WHAT JOSH HAMILTON GAVE ME!!!” Around his little wrist was a black, “I AM SECOND” bracelet. He was talking 100 miles a minute telling me all about how Josh was wearing the bracelet in the game and gave it to him afterwards. When I asked what they talked about he so casually said, “Jesus”.

Of course I had to Google “I AM SECOND” and see what it was all about. I quickly found Josh Hamilton’s video and wow. He has an amazing testimony, Jesus has redeemed him from a true pit. I won’t spoil it for you, watch it for yourself. You will be blessed. 

If your son is going to have an earthly hero, who better than a player who gives ALL the glory to God? It has been so fun going to the games and hearing “Trust in Jesus” and “Blessing and Honor” as he walks to the plate. His example a great tool when teaching our son sportsmanship and that his talent comes from God alone. When we are explaining adoption and caring for the orphan, we can show him how Josh Hamilton has funded an orphanage in Uganda. Needless to say, we have been very thankful.

NOW, TO THE POINT…(and I will do my best to “Shine for Jesus”)

I am soooo stinkin’ mad right now! SAD and MAD. As I watched, what very well could have been Josh Hamilton’s last games as a TX RANGER, my ears were assaulted with a mass of boos and obscenities coming from the fans. ARE YOU PEOPLE KIDDING ME!? It is not even necessary for me to give the 100,000 reasons this is unacceptable. I won’t even tell you what it did to my son.

When I read his response I was heartbroken to see words like, “it was bad, really bad.”, "Personally, myself, it never would matter how high I was -- if I went to a sporting event, I would never boo somebody or I would never yell obscenities at somebody” and referencing Matthew 10:14, “I think about the bible verse that says if they don’t receive you in a town, then shake the dust off your feet and move on.”

Hey, fair-weathered, TX fans! Is this the way we are going to thank him, possibly say goodbye? 

Josh Hamilton deserves an apology. From every single one of you.

So, Dylan has decided to start a movement, an apology campaign! He wants Josh Hamilton to know what he has meant to him and he wants YOU to do the same! Let’s take pictures and video wearing our Hambone shirts and reliving our best JH moments. Tell him what his example has meant to you and your baseball lovin’ family. Let’s speak on behalf of all the TRUE fans! 

What are you waiting for? Dylan has created the “Please Forgive Us, Josh Hamilton” Facebook page! Let’s blow it up, Hamilton fans! If we must say goodbye, let’s do so with love and not hate! http://www.facebook.com/PleaseForgiveUsJoshHamilton

Dylan’s Letter to Josh

 

Nehemiah, My New BFF

I have the immeasurable honor of leading a morning Bible study for women. As I type this their faces are coming to mind, one by one. I will try my hardest to stay on task but my desire to tell you how much I love and depend on these women wants to take over:)I am crazy about them, and I am crazy about our Wednesday mornings spent in the WORD!

We are currently walking through the book of Nehemiah together. Y’all!!! He is so cool, I want to be JUST LIKE HIM when I grow up! Seriously, don’t take my word for it, open up the Bible and see for yourselves! Better yet, hop on Lifeway and order your own copy of Kelly Minter’s, “Nehemiah, A Heart that can Break”. (You’ll love her too!)

Nehemiah was a Jew who lived a royal life of luxury in Persia and held the high honor of cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. While they were vacationing in Susa, His brother arrived with a group of men from Judah. During their visit, Nehemiah questioned them about Jerusalem and the Jewish remnant (who survived the exile). Sadly, they had to inform Nehemiah that the news was not good. The Jews were in great trouble and disgrace as Jerusalem’s wall had been broken down. When Nehemiah heard this, he sat down and he wept.

Now, let me remind you, he did not live in Jerusalem. He obviously  had family there but he lived in Persia...in a palace. He didn’t have TV or Foxnews.com to keep him up to date on the world around him. He didn’t have a telephone, email, Facebook or Twitter to keep him connected to friends and family. His relationships were nothing like ours today. But still, he wept and he mourned.

This amazed me. We often hear of the suffering of people when we turn on the news or even when we talk to friends. We are made aware of insurmountable need as we scroll through our FB pages. But can you tell me the last time you sat down and wept at the tragedy of others? I came to the sad realization that, regardless of the reasons, we have hardened hearts. Hearts of stone. Not Nehemiah, he had a heart that could break. (I love him!)

No wonder God is moving the hearts of song writers to pen lyrics like: “Break my heart for what breaks yours”, “break my heart ‘til it moves my hands and feet”, “In my own little world it hardly ever rains, I’ve never gone hungry, always felt safe. I got some money in my pocket, shoes on my feet. In my own little world, population: me”. Our God never meant for us to be desensitized, unaffected, Christians. He, is after all, the very creator of social justice.

I’m praying that the church…that I, will rise up and move out. I pray that we will reflect Jesus and love out loud, get our hands dirty, preach the true Gospel to the desperate, offer the scorned woman…Living Water. I pray that we can reflect the very breakable heart of Nehemiah. We have been called to nothing less.

Because I don’t want to spoil it, I won’t tell you the rest. Which, by the way, is SO hard as there is SO much I want to tell! Go, grab your Bible and read it! Read about how the news of suffering spurred him into ACTION! Read how he never moved without prayer, read how he demanded social justice, read how he stood firm in God’s promises, read how he trusted his awesome God every. step. of. the. way. (Seriously, I love this guy!)

I always wanted my mansion in heaven to be next door to Daniel’s. I, now, have every intention of asking God if He could maybe squeeze me in the middle of him and Nehemiah. I still love you, Daniel…but there’s a new kid in town;)

I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that’s God-willed, not self-willed. I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands.

Ezekiel 36:26-27, The Message

Quick Update

Just wanted to give y’all a quick update. We have our fingerprinting appointment next Tuesday, October 2! Once they review our prints, they will send us our I-171H. This, friends, is The Golden Ticket! It is the form that will allow us to bring an orphan into the United States. Once we receive this, I will have our dossier state certified and we’ll be able to send our dossier to Ethiopia. Translation: WE WILL FINALLY BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST!!

Believe it or not, we’ve been on this Crazy Train for almost 10 months now. To imagine that it could be another 2 years makes me a little sad. Our agency, America World, has warned us the wait could increase even more in the near future. The red tape in the adoption world truly exhausts me. I don’t get it.

Today is one of those days I feel an urgency in my bones. I look at the pictures of forgotten children and ache inside. They are starving for love and purpose. Wanting to know they matter, maybe needing something as simple as a hug. I hate that I can’t go over there and load them all up and take them home. Show them they are valued, chosen, and dearly loved by a God who is in the business of redemption.

One day soon, Little Krause, one day soon<3

and provide for those who grieve in Zion--to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:3

My Dearest Ella Bella

The familiar taste of salt on my lips is evidence of the tears that won’t stop coming…Seriously, like for over a week now! Every day since that fateful August 27th, I have lied in bed with these strange butterflies dancing circles in my belly. I have walked through my days with what seems to be a very large vise clamp suffocating my heart. I have been wondering where the old Britany, who used to scoff at crazy ladies like me, went off to.

Today I couldn’t take it anymore, and the dam broke. I finally had the “my baby just started kindergarten and she might as well be gone forever” break down. It was ugly & it was messy but very necessary to my mental well being.

I wish I could grab the old Britany by the face and tell her she was an ignoramous! That she had no idea what she was talking about and that one day Mean Mabel would grow into a beautiful little 5 year old who would leave. Okay, maybe for only 7 hours a day. But she leaves. Every morning. And bottom line…I’m missing her like crazy:)

My dearest daughter,
I don’t know any other way to say it. I miss you. This house is so painfully quiet as I write you. Sometimes the silence is welcomed, but right now I’m longing to hear the song that has made it’s way from your heart to your lips. I am craving the music of your laughter. I miss you.

We started Bible study today. I realized that it was my very first Bible study without you. When I first started going, I was carrying you with me in my belly. You have always been there and, once again, I missed you.

I missed getting you ready and watching you put together the most “colorful” of outfits. I missed rushing to get your snack and drink ready then yelling you out the door:) I missed you hanging out with me while I got the room ready for the ladies. I missed scolding you for slipping Sean’s airsoft pellets in your pocket. I missed dropping you off in class and watching your sweet teacher’s reaction to your crazy “Ella” style. I missed rushing outside to pick you up by 11:30. I missed your sweet smile peeking out from behind the playground fence-eyes searching for your mommy amidst the many. I missed gathering ALL of your pictures and precious rock treasures. I missed you running off in your high heel boots only to remove them so you could climb the slide. I missed you calling me to push you on the swings. (I so should have done that more, my sweet girl) I missed your cheerful chatter as we drove to Chick-Fil-A to meet all your friends. (and mine:)

Ella…I miss you<3

This last week has dropped the inevitable in my lap. You are growing up and I’m understanding why they write songs like “Let Them be Little” and “You’re Gonna Miss This”. How foolish I was to assume those years would never end, and worse, to hurry them along. In this moment I ache for them-literally!

BUT…

You, girlfriend, are the bravest gal I know! You have conquered this Kindergarten transition beautifully, which hasn’t surprised me one little bit! You are so amazing, Ella Nadine. And you are breathtakingly beautiful…especially when you shine for Jesus!

You have more gumption, more spirit, in your little finger than I could ever dream of having. My fervent prayer is that I NEVER quench that spirit! I think it’s so fitting that in the Bible, the word “quench” is used in reference to suppressing fire:)  My love, you are the most beautiful of fires. I pray God leads me as I direct that fire in you to burn only for Jesus.

I LOVE being your mom, sister! I LOVE that God chose me. It is a joy and great honor…which is probably why I miss you so!

I have 40 more minutes until I can kiss your sweet face, I’m counting the seconds!

~Mommy~

http://www.stephanieleigh-photography.com/

Please Pray for the Stewarts

Once again, I am calling on you to pray. To pray hard and fast. It is the only thing to do when there is nothing you can do. The thing is, there is nothing more powerful.

I do not know the Stewart family personally but a friend shared their story with me tonight. They are from Austin and are in the process of adopting from Haiti. We MUST petition God on their behalf. My heart is so scared for them. Here is the status update of the father:

UPDATE: After being matched with our adoptive son, Kelly, 18 months ago, coming to Haiti 9 times over that time to visit and bond with Kelly (he calls me Papa), and spending tens of thousands of dollars on the adoption process, we found out yesterday that as of Oct 1st all, and I mean ALL, the adoption laws are changing in Haiti. This means that all the dossiers that are not in Social Services (IBESR) as of this week will be rejected and have to start the process all over again. Our dossier is not in Social Services because we have been married 9 years, nor 10 years per Haitian adoption law.

The orphanage's lawyer will try and submit our dossier TODAY, but since we have not been married 10 years, it is a crapshoot whether or not they will accept it. It is literally up to the whimsical discretion of some overworked, under-paid administrator in the most overworked, under-paid department in the Haitian government.In addition, if our dossier is rejected, whatever relationship we have with Kelly will be terminated and not recognized by Social Services. He will then go in to their new processes and they will match him with a different family.

This is dire for us.

Only God's hand can make a way for us an Kelly in this process. A medical visa is out of the question. We are desperate... desperate for God to intervene. Please pray. Please fast. Please tell anyone and everyone you know to pray for this process today.

Please pray for this family tonight. For only God can move this impossible mountain. You can watch the moving story of journey to Kelly here.

Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. (Psalm 61:1-4)

Britany

Need Your World Rocked?

Stop what you’re doing. Get in your car, drive to the bookstore or hop on Amazon.com and download/order Orphanology by Tony Merida and Rick Morton. No, really, RIGHT NOW.

I have spent this quiet morning with tears rolling down my face. Captivated by the love of God for His people, moved by how adoption is a beautiful picture of God’s redemptive love for us…it’s the Gospel, OUT LOUD.

I love this quote from the book: “While it costs us a lot to adopt children, it cost God the blood of His own Son. It cost Christ to give up His own life in obedience to the Father. Christ, the One who “endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:1-2) came to redeem us and make us part of the family.”

I had originally typed a dissertation in response, but my mom recently warned me to be careful with my delivery. She so often offers the wisdom my passion so desperately needs:) So, I will heed her words and pray you will take my advice, get this crazy book and allow Jesus to rock your world!

I, personally, needed the encouragement and reminder as to why Ryan and I have chosen this journey… I Love how God gives us what we need right when we need it!

UPDATE:

Sunday we arrived home from my birthday, camping trip with the best surprise ever! Our finalized Home Study was in the mailbox. I just held the papers and cried. It’s amazing how I will go days with very little thought of our adoption and then moments will come when I am completely overwhelmed with emotion. We have waited 4 months for this and can now move forward with applying with USCIS.

We also received a sweet letter from my oncologist stating that I was, in his opinion, cured. Both my social worker and AWAA family coordinator believe this will be very beneficial in convincing the Ethiopian government on the cancer issue. He also included some surprising words of speaking of my character and ability to care for a child. It was so sweet and meant so much to Ryan and I.

I am encouraged and excited that we are able to finally DO something! We will begin filling out our application to USCIS and gathering the remainder of dossier paperwork necessary.

I see an awesome fundraising benefit in our future!! Now to plan!

Love and appreciate your prayers so much<3

Brit

P.S. GO BUY ORPHANOLOGY HERE! Have you read it? Has it already rocked your world? Leave me a comment below and tell us what you thought!

Part II

Hopefully one day it won’t take me a week + to finish a blog post…key word here being hopefully. I filled you in on the kiddos but so many of you have been asking what we’ve been up to. So, at the risk of boring you to tears, here goes…

I’ll start off with the most requested. There has been little movement in our adoption world. I’m not going to lie, It’s been really hard. For so long we were “balls to the wall” busy, working hard to get every bit of paperwork done in record time. Now we wait, with little to no information. We are hoping to soon receive a letter from my oncologist. He will state that in the cancer world I am considered cured and my future prognosis is promising. Our agency said this “may” help. AWAA assures us they are doing their best to advocate for us and educate Ethiopia.

With all this being said, they want us to make a decision to move forward or not. Documents are time sensitive and we risk having to re-do everything if we wait. Also, we have 6 months after completion of our Home Study to submit with USCIS. After this 6 month period our home study will be void.

To submit with USCIS will cost $900 and dossier submission to Ethiopia around $8200. There is no assurance that in spite of time and much money invested, Ethiopia will approve us. If we decide to change direction we lose all the money we have paid up to this point. While the money is God’s, we still have to be good stewards and make wise decisions. But, still, we must decide.

This is where we step out of the boat and onto the water. Keeping our eyes ever fixed on Jesus is the goal but our tendency to look around at the circumstances is our demise. We. sink. every. time. Our family would be most appreciative of prayer for clear answers. For doors to be opened and shut, for God to lead the way. We really do trust Him and His perfect timing, if only we could live out what we know. Little Krause, we are praying you home<3

Part III

Ryan has been working hard lately. He comes home late most days and for a while, worked on his days off. He gets a high off this though because he sees the dollar signs. I, on the other hand, start to get a little pouty cause I just miss my man;)

I am always amazed that he can work a hard, laborious job all day, come home and immediately, plug into his family. Just yesterday he was called into work at 3AM and didn’t get home until 8PM. That’s 17 HOURS, people! As soon as he walked through the door, the kids were at his feet, begging him for a walk around the neighborhood. Without hesitation he granted their request. I could totally picture myself begrudgingly saying yes and exhaling dramatically so that everyone could hear. I so admire my husband’s character, he is truly a rock star father.

A couple of months ago, Ryan was chosen out of his PEC office for a unique leadership program. He’s had to attend classes and write papers but he loves the content and what he’s learning. One of his long term goals at PEC is to promote servant leadership and I can see God putting that into play for him.

Next week he will be competing in the 2012 Texas Lineman’s Rodeo. The rodeo is a weekend affair and is becoming a fun and anticipated Krause Family tradition. He will compete in (too complicated to explain), hot work events and also the really fun things like, the speed climb, hurt-man rescue, etc. The rodeo takes place in Seguin, TX and starts bright and early Saturday, July 21. Come out and cheer for him if you get a wild hair! Ryan is a rock star father but he’s also a rock star lineman!

My world has been topsy-turvy with all sorts of ventures. In addition to my (very part time)event consulting business, I recently took a job with a special events facility in Dripping Springs. Camp Lucy is the most enchanting, beautiful venue I have ever seen. I’ve got some pretty awesome co-workers and I absolutely love working with brides in love and their expectant families. Bridezillas, yes they are for real, but few and far between. I have been feeling God pulling me away from the wedding business but I’m enjoying it in the meantime. Who knows where He will lead me next.

Today marks the 4th day we’ve been home from our Dallas vacation and we are STILL recovering! We had planned to go to Orange Beach but it flooded. *SIGH* oh the well. We started it off right with a visit to my Nana & Papa’s house. I love being with them and my kids love it even more. We went to LEGOLAND, Rainforest Café, Bass Pro Shop (Cabelas is way mo betta!), the movies to see Madagascar 3 and to two TX Ranger games.

OMAGOONDESS, I love being in that ballpark! I have so many memories there and at Arlington Stadium. Great, exciting, family, memories. When they were showing clips of Nolan Ryan’s 7th No Hitter, it was so cool to tell my kids their mommy was there. In my world, fewer things are better than taking in a good ball game with the family!

We have a busy July-August and are doing our best to make every moment count. I’ll let you know how my rock star lineman does in the rodeo:)

XOXO,

Brit

 

Daddy wants a new boat…a man can dream.

4D movie at LEGOLAND

Rainforest Café

Shark Attack!

Fireworks at Rangers Stadium

Respect the ‘Hawk

The Crazy Krauses

Where have you been?

The House of Krause has been caught in the middle of a whirlwind! I’m sure you are nodding right now, thinking, “preach it, sister!”. You too, huh?

So why, you ask, have I been so quiet for WEEKS…

Dylan’s Texas Rangers finished first place in the regular season and he was selected to play on the Blue All Star team. This, my friends, (in the 8 year old, Hays, little leaguer world) was a real big deal! It was the first year mom and dad allowed him to participate in All Stars so he was super excited.

Of course this took over our entire lives as he practiced every evening and played tournaments every weekend. If ever I suggested or tried to manipulate him into staying home, he would promptly begin whining and begging to let him go to practice. He just couldn’t get enough of it. 

My man child is a rock star on the baseball field, (side note: Yes, I gave birth to him. Yes, I play favorites), and he is so much fun to watch! Dylan played first base and left field all season so I was frustrated when the coach began playing him in positions he was new to. I soon had to shut my mouth as he became a great utility player for the team. My favorite position to watch him play was catcher. Napoli has nothing on Big D;)

The McArthur-Krauses are baseball fools so we were truly in heaven. We were blessed with a great team, fabulous coaches and super, awesome parents! However, we were all a little relieved when they finished out their season last weekend. Free is a great word to describe how momma felt! Yesterday, I saw Dylan was swinging his trusty imaginary bat. The poor boy looked at me, dropped his shoulders and presented me with the most pathetic pouty face. “Are you missing baseball, son?” He just nodded his head. It had only been a week since the boy’s cleats hit the field. He has the bug for sure.

Ella Bella is now an official graduate of the Hays Hills Baptist Church, Christian Learning Center. It’s so very hard to wrap my mind around. She was so proud to receive her Bible and certificate and looked fab-u-lous in her cap and gown. She is very ready for kindergarten and cannot understand why she has to wait alllll summer for that first day.

I love that she’s ready and excited but I’m discovering it’s me who’s not quite ready to let her go…Who in the world woulda thunk it!?! Of course, I’ve been doing the usual “Mommy Guilt” routine, thinking of all the wasted time, missed opportunities and minutes I wished away. All those sweet grannies I figured had just been blessed with the veil of forgetfulness, knew what they were talking about after all. I would love to have those days back…or at least a few of them!

Ryan coached Ella’s tball team this year. He was determined that his little girl would not be subjected to any harsh, crazy coaching and this was the one way to prevent that from happening. T-Ball 1 is the cutest thing you ever did see! I mean, preciousnes! The little cuties field their own balls, play in the dirt and force you from your seats with surprise home runs. Ella has announced that she will not be returning to the game which is sort of a bummer because the chic was really good! She could field great and played some awesome first base! (see previous side note) But, nope, she is certain the gymnastics world will suit her better…we shall see.

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

For Your Viewing Pleasure

 

 

 

 

A Moghadam Family Update

First, let me say how amazed I am at our God. When I woke up to the news of this tragic situation, I couldn’t help but play through all the horrible possibilities. I was imagining the Moghadams making headlines and weeks of negotiations between countries. NOT SO WITH OUR GOD. The answers came quickly and swiftly. His people moved, He moved.

Last night my friend, Cristie, from the America World adoption circle sent this response to my inquiry for an update: I don't have a ton of details. I know that it was two Ghanian pastor's who put their houses up to post their bail. WOW! At this time, they've asked that no updates be made publicly until the family can control what is said. I know that they desire people to know how many children are in that country that need adopted ... but I believe until further notice, nothing is being said publicly. I do know one thing ... the adoption community rose to it's occasion in praying for their release - one more reason to adopt - no where else will you gather such an amazing body of believers! Can i get an AMEN!!! Yes, Cristie, AMEN!! :)

This morning there was a message from the Moghadams on their blog. You can see their brief statement here as well as read their full adoption story. Also, consider ordering one of their tshirts or giving to their adoption fund!

Lorraine Patterson also wrote a great blog on the subject here.

It did my spirit good to witness such an uprising on their behalf! Thank you all for your prayers, and for having such loving and empathetic hearts!! Please, continue to pray for them, and a fast resolution.

 

UPDATE

Most recent news: Please keep praying for the Moghadam family and for Monday's proceedings in Ghana! Their little adopted 2-year-old has a fever and they are worried it might be malaria. Their two biological children are very traumatized. This information is from Chris's sister and she has asked that everyone continue to stand with them in prayer. Also, please pray for the four adopted children also removed and placed into an orphanage - A source familiar with the orphanage says it is NOT a safe place for kids. PLEASE pray for swift justice and release and for God to supernaturally hover over these treasures tonight!!

Via No Greater Joy blog:

Saturday update:  (From those who are working very closely with government officials):  With regards to PRECIOUS Sol and Christine and their kids....ALL pertinent government officials have been engaged since early this morning. I am confident that everything that can be done IS in fact being done by our government to resolve this issue and reunite this family. Please continue to pray for a QUICK release. This is an innocent family, this has been a terrible act of injustice......BUT, God...."

The family has asked now that people NOT contact government offices or media outlets at this time! Things on the ground are in the works, and at this time all they NEED is prayer.

I will update as I learn more. Please keep praying, church!

URGENT, PLEASE PRAY, HELP

I woke up this morning to this message:

Britany, please pray for Christine and Sol Moghadam right now! They are in Accra Ghana with their 2 bio children, Ethan and Issac (4&6). They are in the process of adopting 4 children and thrown in prison. Not only were they put in prison, their own bio children were placed in a state run orphanage in Ghana!! We need all the help we can get to spread the word and if anyone knows contacts with the US Embassy in Ghana or other government agencies that can help, please reach out to them! Please pray for Ethan and Isaac as they sit in an orphanage not knowing the language and are probably terrified!!!!

I was speechless, floored. I have to be honest with you friends, my adoption morale is low…very low, and to wake up to this is almost more than I can bear. I have now learned that they are being accused of child trafficking despite their documentation. Please, please, face to the floor, pray for this family and their children. Petition for their immediate release and safety. Beg God to bring home their ENTIRE family, bio and adopted. Pray that the US Government will move into action and intervene. Church, arise and go to battle…we have no other choice.

While you pray, please spread the word, share with whoever you can. You may tell someone who knows someone who has the power to help.

You can meet this family here: http://vimeo.com/39295514 and http://www.adopttogether.org/moghadam/

Prayers Please

First, I want to beg your forgiveness as I have not updated the blog in weeks. You’ve all probably been too busy to read it anyway, with all of the end of the year CRAZINESS swirling about. *Who in the world made May the new December!?* It was important that I take the time to write today because we need your prayers.

Last week, as I was digging in an old filing cabinet, I came across the original MRI report that found my cancer. It was dated May 23, 2002. I sat down right where I was, stunned that it has been almost 10 years ago.

Of course, in moments like these, you tend to get a little nostalgic. My ears were suddenly in tune with the voices of my miracle children, I glanced at my man and was overwhelmed with love and respect. I silently thanked my God for how far He had brought us and the blessings He had lavished upon us. Victorious, I felt victorious…

Fast forward to Saturday morning when I receive this email from our AWAA Family Coordinator:

…As stated previously, The Ministry of Women, Children and Youth Affairs (MOWCYA), has noted in their new guidelines that cancer/history of cancer will be an area with which their guidelines may become much more strict. We will most definitely be advocating for families already in the process if any of the new guidelines affect them. Additionally, we are advocating for current families to be grandfathered/there to be a grace period.

At this time, we don’t have further information. It may be weeks until these guidelines are in place, but I will update your family with information as I receive it.

Needless to say, we were very discouraged by this news. We have so many questions and no answers. I went throughout Saturday with my heart so heavy it hurt to carry it around. Tears came easy and the word “Robbed” kept bouncing around my head. Here I was, relishing the reality of being a survivor for TEN years, when we receive news that this “cancer” is threatening to rob us again. 

The losses and pain you think are long dead and buried, creep out in moments like these. You see, once upon a time, I was a little girl who wanted to sing. Read any paper written from 5-17 and you’ll read about a dream to entertain the world. A dream that never changed. When I was in my prime, having just performed my first showcase with Sony and Mercury records, cancer invaded and stole it all away. It’s a gaping hole that has never healed. And now, all these years later, it is has come to steal again.

I felt so defeated. :You took SO much from me, cancer!!! DO NOT steal THIS from us!!”

It was then, while I was knee deep in my pity party, I heard: “Your enemy comes to STEAL, kill and destroy. But I came to GIVE you life, and GIVE it to the fullest. I know the plan I have for you and little Krause and it includes a hope and a future. Your battle is NOT with cancer, not with flesh and blood. Your battle is with Satan himself. But I have already won, you CAN feel victorious, Britany, I have overcome the world.”

Wow. This is how awesome our God is, how personal. He so quickly identified who I was up against and assured me that with HIM this battle is already won. Have I continued to worry? YES. I wish I could tell you I’m Super Faith Girl…but I’m sooo not. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know one thing, I trust Him, regardless.

Our family would be so honored if you would pray for us. Specifically that the MOWCYA will allow us to proceed as I have been in remission for so long. Pray they will consider the fact we began the adoption process before the new guidelines were in place. Ryan and I don’t want to be where God is not leading, but we feel SO strongly that He led us straight to Ethiopia. And our hearts are now sold out, I really can’t explain the emotional attachment we already feel.

There are 5 million orphans in Ethiopia, surely…I MEAN SURELY, they will make an exception…

One Step Closer

Yesterday was a GLORIOUS day! After almost two months of daily paper chasing, I signed, sealed and delivered our Home Study packet to America World-Texas! Well, mailed it so USPS can deliver it. No, we’re not finished, we still have our dossier to compile but this was HUGE for the Krause Family.

My impatience begged me to overnight it but it was only going to Dallas AND $44 vs. $8 is a big difference! Plus, I didn’t want to give my man a heart attack. He had already granted me the permission to go in Mail & More by myself while he waited in the car with the kiddos. This was exercising major trust so I couldn’t let him down. I skipped all the way to the car both Ryan and I grinning from ear to ear. We took the chitlins for ice cream to celebrate. And, yes, there might have been some praise dancin’ on the way!

After the paperwork arrives in Dallas, Adela (don’t you just love her name!), our social worker, will review and then America World will schedule our home study visit. We are anxious to get our home study completed so we can apply for grants and financial assistance. It will also make us eligible to file our I600A, Application for Advance Processing of Orphan Petition, with US Citizens and Immigration Services. This part stresses me out as the Dept. of Homeland Security will forever have my fingerprints…don’t lie, would you too!

Last night, Ryan and I looked over our dossier checklist and were thrilled to discover we’ve just got a few items to go! People, this has me floating on air today! Hopefully, we’ll be able to go for passports next week. Other than filing with USCIS and receiving our completed home study, we’ve pretty much got everything else! I will refrain from celebrating until the completed dossier is DTE-Dossier to Ethiopia. But, for real, I am so super excited that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Check back in a few weeks though, will I be singing the same tune? Only time will tell!

So other than adoption stuff, what are the crazy Krauses up to? Well, spring is in the air and for these McArthur-Krauses that means BASEBALL!! I have been waiting impatiently since October and the time has finally come! You will be so sad to know that we don’t have cable which means no spring training games for this gal. I have been staring, and yelling, at the “coming soon” message on the MLB channel on my Roku for weeks. It’s about to drive me insane. However, both of my kids are playing this year so practices and games are starting to fill up our weeks! I will definitely be posting pics of their cute baseball tushies! Interesting fact: first time I “noticed” Ryan Krause, he was in his baseball uniform…yup, I was a goner.

Friday and Saturday, I had the honor of leading worship at HHBC women’s retreat with my girl Kelli and, wait for it…my BROTHER!! It was our very first time to sing together, something I have waited years to do. When we finished Friday night, I found my dad standing in the back of the worship chapel. He crashed the “all girls” event to hear his children sing to Jesus together. Now that I’m typing this, I don’t know why I was surprised, nothing could have kept him away. Made my heart melt a little. I will tell you this, my brother can sang…now that it’s in my bones, I will be jonesing for an encore. Hey! Maybe my dad will join us next time, how fun would that be!!?

I’ve heard so many of you tell me you haven’t been able to keep up since the first few posts. With that being said, I hope you understand that this forces me to BEG…Please, please don’t quit stopping by, keep us somewhere on your radar. We need your prayers and support more now and tomorrow than ever. I am so grateful for each of you and knowing that you are traveling this journey with us makes all the difference! So, if you haven’t yet, follow through “Networked Blogs” at the bottom of the page. Stay on this crazy train with us, it’s sure to be a ride you won’t forget!

xoxo,

Brit

Getting ready to mail all our hard work!

Ice Cream!!!!

Paper Pregnant

I don’t know about you, but I’m liking this year’s Spring forward! It is dark and quiet in my house and I have just finished my Bible study…UNINTERRUPTED!(and without yelling at one of my children to “LEAVE MOMMY ALONE! I’M TRYING TO SPEND TIME WITH JESUS!”) While I had the rare opportunity, I thought I’d sip my coffee with you guys. We’ve got a little catching up to do!

When I first dove into the world of adoption, I began to see and hear the term, “Paper Pregnancy”. Until this last month, I had no idea what everyone in Adoption World was talking about. Now. I. Do. OMAGOSH, now I do! The beginning weeks/months of pregnancy are not always easy. You are EXHAUSTED like someone is sucking the life out of you. You feel as if you’re losing every single brain cell, one by one. You, most often times, feel as if you are going to toss your cookies or lose all of those Doritos you just binged on. I totally get it now, I am 100% paper preggers!

When I received my checklists for the home study and dossier documents, I couldn’t understand why it would take us 4-6 months to complete. They looked totally doable at first glance, but then you begin to paper chase. People, EVERY SINGLE STEP has been complicated. The problem tends to be that the world could care less that you are trying to save an orphan. You are just another person in a long line of people needing something from them. This has just about left me fit to be tied every day. COULD YOU PLEASE JUST WRITE THE DARNED LETTER OF EMPLOYMENT THE WAY THE ETHIOPIAN GOVERMENT WANTS YOU TOOOO!!!!???? “No, Ma’am, I’m sorry, we cannot.”

I read to Ryan while we drive. How else are we going to fit 9 books in? We have the 10 hour, online course up on our computers, at all times. We never know when we’ll have a spare minute to stop by and read a few lines, answer a few questions. We have t-shirts to design (and no idea how to do it, which makes it impossible), phone calls to make and fundraisers to plan. Oh yeah, and this thing we call life…it doesn’t stop. How rude is that!? It just keeps on spinning, at light speed, around you.

If there is ever a moment I’m not working on the adoption, it’s an intentional moment. I have to make myself stop and plug in to my family, friends, and the world around me. My brain is in overdrive and I have no idea how to slow it down. The urgency is really unexplainable. There is just so much to do in a specific amount of time and you end up wondering how you’re ever going to do it all.

Wisdom? Words of advice? Tips to make this process easier? DO YOU KNOW HOW TO DESIGN A MEASLEY T-SHIRT!? Bring it, people! Just in case you don’t have it: mckrause@hotmail.com …I’m only an email away!

Hopefully, I’ll have time in the VERY near future to tell you all about the exciting news on the benefit horizon! I’ve been teasing y’all for weeks. I’ve got to have some leverage to keep you coming back…I love you too much to lose you now ;)

xoxo,

Brit

No victory here for you

I hate satan. I hate that he is a liar. I hate that he seeks to steal, kill and destroy. I hate his every scheme and his every attempt to ruin the testimony of the followers of Jesus Christ.

Every single step I have attempted to take towards bringing Little Krause home this morning has been thwarted by that stinky serpent. My girlfriend who is adopting a precious little boy with special needs (and who, without her, will most likely suffer and die at a young age in an orphanage)is jumping what seem like impossible bureaucratic hurdles with the TX government for ONE FORM!  Yes, I am aware that that was a run-on sentence with poor punctuation. http://four-more.blogspot.com/

Another girlfriend, is FINALLY getting closer to bringing home 2 adorable boys home from the Ukraine. Both boys have down syndrome and have lived their lives in an orphanage. They were about to be transferred to an ADULT mental/psychiatric facility to live out the remainder of their lives when Lorraine and her husband began to fight to make them theirs.

These little boys are 6 years old but are the size of TODDLERS. When I opened her blog this morning, this is what I read: Conner (age 6 years 7 months) is in pretty sad shape(see photo). He is so tiny, skin and bones. He is refusing all food and liquids. He won't drink from a straw, cup, sippy, or bottle. We're using a syringe to force water down his throat. Please pray that he'll hang in there and we can get home Saturday to get him medical help. He's happy, just won't eat or drink. :-( http://allarepreciousinhissight.blogspot.com/

These stories coupled with all the road blocks I have come up against, have left me frustrated and exhausted this morning. Those who had the misfortune of being in my presence today have most likely written me off as a lunatic. (Please, do NOT repeat this to any known social worker or government employee!) To say I have been discouraged is an understatement.

Here is what REALLY gets me. I know how the enemy works. I’m hip to his game. I hate how he works but what I hate most of all is when I buy into the lies he whispers in my ear. I hate when I am too weak in my flesh and I give him any ground at all. (like when I rant on FB and spread my ugly everywhere) I hate it when I allow him to discourage me and I am not discerning enough to recognize these attacks and CALL HIM OUT. Shame on me.

Um, who is my God? Who has all the glory, power and honor, forever and ever? “I AM” is my God! YAHWEH is my God. GREATER IS HE WHO IS IN ME THAT HE WHO IS IN THE WORLD!! I will NOT allow satan to have the victory because my God has already won.

Here is where you come in. The most powerful and the only offensive weapon given to us is the Word of God, it is our sword. I am asking for your prayer on behalf of my friends and on behalf of those answering God’s call to adopt. I am asking that you pray specific scripture OUT LOUD over all those on this journey of adoption. The devil cannot read your thoughts, say them out loud.  He wants nothing more than to see us all fail. He loves that there are 147 million children desperate for a family, for love. Please, join me in prayer today, please, add this to your prayer list.

I so often feel powerless when made aware of difficulties, illness, loss, indescribable pain. I so often want to “do” something, help in some way. It is in these times I forget that I can do something. I can get on my knees and pray.

What could possibly be more powerful than taking it all to the mercy seat of our very able God?

What a whirlwind this past week has been! It feels like forever since we’ve talked!

My surgery went great. Thank you so much for your prayers. I still have not felt a decrease in pain but we are hoping time will be the answer. Our family has been blessed beyond words with prayer and FOOD from our friends. Let me tell you, my girls can COOK! What fun it’s been listening to my husband go on and on…and on about what amazing cooks my friends are. To look at Ryan you would never know that 1. He eats like a horse and 2. the way to his heart is through his belly! I most definitely will have to step it up in the kitchen after these gourmet meals!

The adoption front has been quiet until Yesterday. Sara with America World emailed and let us know that our paperwork and initial payment had been received. Today, Adela the director of social services with AWAA, Texas emailed our home study paperwork. Whoa.

I assured my panicking self that we would take it one step at a time. One document at a time. One doctor visit at a time. There is so much required. I mean, things like pictures of the outside of your house, floor plan sketch, background checks, TB tests, reference letters…lots of stuff. I wish we could pause life while we work on all of this. Seems like it will be impossible to do both;)

While I was in surgery, Ryan spent his time creating a list of all the adoption expenses. I’m surprised he didn’t need to join me in recovery. He put an asterisk by what has already been paid. I will add a timeline and expense page to our menu bar and as we complete these steps and make payments I’ll update the page. I want to add a new progress tracker and instead of $35,000 being the goal, have several small ones as we journey through the process. Seems more doable, right?

I’ve felt an urgency to begin planning/executing the fundraisers. Do you ever get that, “we’re burning daylight”, feeling? I was forced to my bed this weekend so I spent my time planning and planning some more. My brain was definitely in overdrive. To the point where I began to panic…again. Maybe I heard God all wrong. Um, can I change my mind, take it all back? I’m tired, it’s just too much. I want to go back to when life was simple. EASY. When I was comfortable.

It was in that moment that I had a visual picture of my Savior. He was in the garden of Gethsemane with His head in His hands. He was in torment, crying out to His Father. He knew what His future held but He didn’t walk away. He didn’t give up or say never mind. He sacrificed His very life, He gave it all…for me, for you.

Here’s the reality: there is a living, breathing child out there. A child without a mommy to kiss away their pain, to hold them when they’re scared. Maybe without any hope at all. A child God has purposed for our family. If I give up now, I give up on that child, my child. So, I wont. I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other.

Thank you, Jesus for being right there, always so quick to remind me: It was You who rescued me. It was You who came for me. It was You who adopted me into Your family. It is You who gives me hope.

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. ~Jesus~

John 14:18

 

Marriage Talk

For the past few years at MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) we have had a “Favorite Things” meeting. Think Oprah but on a much smaller budget. Each mom has to wrap and bring the one thing she cannot live without. Well, this particular week was cRaZy at the Haus of Krause so when Friday rolled around I had completely forgotten about my “thing”. As I have already told you, my man is my most favorite thing and I most certainly was not going to give him away. I decided to sit down and quickly type up a few tips that work for us, things that help keep our marriage feeling new and solid. I printed it out, folded it neatly and taped it shut. This is exactly how it made it’s way to the table covered with 60+ of the most beautifully wrapped packages I had ever seen (most of us have degrees from Pinterest University). Needless to say, the folded piece of paper was the last one standing.

I can only imagine the things going through the mind of the poor, sweet MOP who was stuck with the neglected “thing”. I started to get really nervous. I just knew all 60+ of those women were feeling sorry for her. I jumped up feeling the need to explain why I had only brought that ugly sheet of paper and swearing that I had included a restaurant.com gift certificate!! I then proceeded to read the Marriage Tips out loud.

If you know anything about me, you know I am not shy, not in the least bit. I have absolutely no problem speaking or singing in front of huge crowds of people. BUT, that morning standing in front of those Pinterest Masters, I felt so ridiculous. Why hadn’t I remembered my FAVORITE THING!? Now, here I was with this last minute, silly SHEET OF PAPER.  Do you know my hands were even shaking as I read it! WHAT IN THE WORLD?? (Do you see what you women do to flakes like me;)  Funny thing happened though, they loved it! Several of them have been asking for a copy and my friend even asked if I would consider speaking on it (hilarious)…hmmm, maybe! 

So, in the spirit of Valentines Day, I though it would be fun to share my silly, last minute tips. It’s the very condensed version but you’ll get the point. Here’s to marriages everywhere, HAPPY HEART DAY, FRIENDS!

~Keepin’ It Real~

*Make him feel strong, capable, give him some affirmation! Encourage him, build him up, Tell him how devastatingly handsome he is, let him know he is your hero.

*Always cuddle, don’t let the distance grow between you when you sleep.

*RESPECT HIM

*Compliments of Steve Leavitt: Get under his umbrella, LET HIM LEAD!!

*Keep up your appearance! Look good for your man! Shave your legs, put on makeup, dress for him, make sure you look GOOD when he comes home, not because he expects it, but because you love him!

*ALWAYS be on his side especially in front of your children!

*Open Communication, be honest, tell him how you feel, don’t just say “Nothing” when he asks what’s wrong)

*Establish clear boundaries to safeguard your marriage!! Rules you refuse to break!

*Date each other. Carve out alone time, plan dates. Your children are important but the greatest gift you can give your children is a mommy and daddy who are still crazy in love!

*CHOOSE to love him, even when the butterflies aren’t there, when you’re not “feeling it”!

*Spend time in God’s Word! You can’t help but shine when you’ve been in His presence and there is nothing more beautiful on a woman!

*Pray for your husband, pray, pray, pray!!!! (Power of a Praying Wife is an excellent book)

*Keep your love life exciting (yes, THAT is EXACTLY what I mean)

*Jesus Christ is the glue that binds, HE holds our marriage together! As you both move towards Him, you will naturally grow closer to one another!

xoxo Happy Valentine’s Day xoxo

Brit