Yes, We Were in Ghana!

Friends, we just returned from Ghana. Yes, we really did!

Our trip was extremely eventful. In fact, I've had several people tell me I should write a book about our adventure! Reid and I returned last Thursday still processing our week. After some time to reflect on our trip, I'm ready to share a few nuggets with you about our week in Africa.

First, we LOVE our son! He captured our heart immediately. His personality came alive while he was with us. Laughter filled our hotel room because of his antics. He is absolutely a miracle. Reid and I have realized that WE are the ones who are blessed! Overcomer is going to fill our life with so much JOY! We thank God for the privilege of joining our lives together!

Second, thank you for praying. We were granted a full adoption decree! Overcomer is officially our child according to the Ghanaian government. Oh, what a wonderful addition to our family. Five boys! Oh my!

Third, we were able to take gifts of flip-flops, diapers, and gift bags to share in Ghana. They were all dsitributed where needed and everyone was extremely grateful for the gifts. Thank you, generous friends, who provided all of these goodies!

We will be returning soon, Lord willing, to bring Overcomer home. A children's home in Ghana has specifically requested twin bed sheets and bath towels. Larger sized children's clothing is also a need. If you would like to send some items with us, please let us know. We will deliver it.

Daily life in Ghana is difficult for many. Yet, the people are some of the happiest I have met in my 40+ years of life. They laugh instead of cry. They compliment rather than complain. They welcome friends instead of shunning strangers. Their life philosophy was a breath of fresh air.

Reid and I took some food to the children's homes we visited. Rice and oil are staple items. At one home, I even learned to cook cassava on their outdoor fire pot. Incredibly, all of the daily food for 27 children is cooked outside over a fire! Without our modern conveniences, the workers in this home seem to strive to give what they can to the children. (Below is the market where we purchased the rice.)

Finally, our time in country held some unexpected surprises, but our God was faithful. There were times we were uncertain - able to cling only to God - while our new son clung to us. We were planted in a faith-growing garden for several days! (Literally, I lost 10 pounds on this seven day trip! The stress was a great diet for me!)

God gave verses of comfort during this time:

"The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent." Exodus 14:14

"The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name." Exodus 15:3

"Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle." Psalm 24:8

Because of our experience in Ghana, we will not be posting much about Overcomer until he is here with us. For all of us, we feel this would be best. To avoid miscommunicating, please note we were never in any physical danger.

Whatever our circumstances, we are reminded to count our blessings. This Ghanaian van says it best...

God is good...All the time...and...All the time...God is good!