There is so much we could tell you about the path that led us here. All the conversations. Prayers. Nudges. Gut checks. Fear. Leaps.
We’ve both felt like adoption was something we were always supposed to do. Separately, at young ages, we both had experiences when friends would need a place to stay and our parents modeled the generosity of opening their homes and their family to those in need around us.
We don’t know why God called us to this but we believe without a doubt that it is written that our next child will be created for us, but not by us.
This process has not been an easy one. Even as we look at our financial information, there is no logical way that we should be able to adopt a child any time soon. However, in early November our church was going through a sermon series titled, “Greater Things”. Our pastor talked about being generous and honoring God with whatever we have. It hit us: God is calling us to do this great, amazing, terrifying thing. We need to bring Him what we have, even if we feel like it isn’t enough and He promises to, “Pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try It! Put me to the Test!” – Malachi 3:10 So that is what we’re doing: stepping out in faith step because this child’s story depends on it. Our story depends on it.
Our family has consistently inspired us and motivated us to keep going. It feels almost impossible to adequately describe how important and wonderful they are. We have a very large, supportive family on both sides. It gets loud and crazy and we wouldn’t trade it for anything. Birthdays, holidays and special occasions always feel extra special because we are surrounded by 20+ people who love and support us. We spend almost every day with Aimee’s sisters and their families. They are truly our village. In fact, this year, we all moved to the same street so our kids could grow up together. It really feels like our son has 4 brothers and sisters because his cousins are so close to him. And we know that adding a child to this family through adoption will paint a completely new and beautiful picture of what love really is.
Most days it feels like we are free falling — not exactly sure what’s waiting for us when we land. But we know we’re exactly where we are supposed to be. We are so excited to see how God grows our family and our faith through this adventure.
While this journey is filled with an endless list of unknowns, what we do know is this: We can’t wait to meet the soul that will join our family next.
We’re thankful to have been awarded a $2500 matching grant from Hands of Hope Adoption Fund, administered by Lifesong for Orphans. That means for every $1 you donate, they will match it up to $2500!
Thank you for considering giving to our adoption. We know God’s plans are good and that He is connecting dots even when we can’t see it. We are forever grateful that you are choosing to be part of our story.
STRIPE charges an online processing fee (2.2% +.30 USD per transaction). Your donations will be decreased by this amount. You may also send a check payable to “Lifesong for Orphans”. In the memo line please write “Cottle 09078”, to ensure it is credited to our account. Please mail to Lifesong for Orphans, PO Box 9, Gridley, IL 61744.
Lifesong has been blessed with partners who underwrite all U.S. administrative and fundraising costs (TMG Foundation and other partners). That means 100% of your donation will go directly to the adoption.
- In following IRS guidelines, your donation is to Lifesong for Orphans. This organization retains full discretion over its use, but intends to honor the donor’s suggested use.
- Lifesong is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. Individual donations of $50 or more and yearly donations totaling $250 or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Receipts for donations under $50 will gladly be sent upon request.
