tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80961073777686267072012-01-28T13:01:29.637-06:00ONE FAMILY - GOD'S PLANThe Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.comBlogger761100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-90506520920281836332012-01-17T23:58:00.000-06:002012-01-17T23:58:19.611-06:00

 It has been ONE year since we brought Aster home from Ethiopia.  The time has gone so quickly and at the same time we feel as though she has always been a part of us.  There is no doubt that God ordained her as a Porter long before we ever even knew Aster's name.  Many of you helped bring our Aster home and your prayers and contributions have blessed our family beyond what words can express. 

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-14815541663936521412011-11-20T18:28:00.001-06:002011-11-22T09:42:00.663-06:00

As promised, here are our new fundraising items, at least a few of them:    Magazine Bead and Ethiopian Cross Necklaces Our oldest daughter is handcrafting these beautiful necklaces. They have various colored magazine beads and an authentic Ethiopian cross hanging from the center. If you have a specific color request, we are happy to custom make one for you! red/brown green/blue

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-36551026390479050572011-11-19T09:40:00.000-06:002011-11-19T09:40:26.685-06:00

Change seems to be the common thread that ties our days, weeks and months together over the past year. In the last several weeks my heart has reflected on all of the changes we have experienced in the past 18 months: we moved to a new home, traveled to Ethiopia 3 times for me and 4 times for Craig in a 9 month period, Craig left a very secure job that the world deemed succesful, we started a

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-21895902812135030492011-07-14T19:34:00.000-05:002011-07-14T19:34:56.137-05:00

It has become very clear that Mary-Aster only acknowledges 'Aster' but does NOT acknowledge the 'Mary' part of her name - which is funny because most everyone else seems to acknowledge the 'Mary' but not the 'Aster'. So, at home we have her saying "Aster's milk" or "Aster's shirt", and her siblings all call her 'Aster'- but we have others in her life saying "Hi, Mary!" or "Come on in here Mary"

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-2947624660901956842011-06-27T11:23:00.000-05:002011-06-27T11:23:24.770-05:00

I have decided to start blogging again - not because I am trying to find things to do with all of my extra time but because it helps me focus on the joys of this season in life and find the humor in the daily craziness. I never imagined how busy life would get with a toddler in the house again - but busy it is. Quick recap on the last 4 months: - We officially finished our school year: Hannah

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-87337168714377759732011-02-10T19:17:00.000-06:002011-02-10T19:17:25.605-06:00

I have been meaning to get these photographs posted for days, but am just now getting my feet under me with all of the transitions. I know all you really want to see are pictures, so I'll keep the update short.  We are all doing GREAT!!! It is as though Mary-Aster has always been with us - hard to explain, but true.  We are SO SO SO grateful to all be together at home and we are absolutely LOVING

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-91686460684135725762011-01-28T06:40:00.000-06:002011-01-28T06:40:56.683-06:00

This week has been a blur of emotions, tears, new information, fear -  more tears, hugs, good-byes that weren't supposed to happen, questions needing answers, and lots more tears!  Per our agency's recommendation, Craig and I took Mary-Aster to the US Embassy on Monday to ask them to show us favor and allow us to come home that evening.  We were told that all of our paperwork was turned in and

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-51673017871043583532011-01-16T03:01:00.000-06:002011-01-16T03:01:14.293-06:00

Our first 48 hours in Ethiopia were very challenging and humbling -- and in retrospect humorous. Thanks to jet lag and fatigue I can't remember how much I shared in my Gotcha Day post, and I can't seem to go back and view it, so I might be repeating myself here, sorry. Mary-Aster was quite sick the first 12 hours we had he. She vomited on Hannah on in the car on the way to the guest and

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-86115962089272317542011-01-13T04:07:00.002-06:002011-01-13T04:18:40.843-06:00

The day has finally arrived! We leave in 45 mins to go and get Mary-Aster. Hannah is gathering goodies to take to the transition home, and we are all giddy with excitement!! Can't wait to post picture and share the experience with you. We are so thankful to God for the journey that brought us to this day, in this country to get this special baby girl! "My heart leaps for JOY and with my song

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-3757555653478603242011-01-10T21:15:00.000-06:002011-01-10T21:15:28.332-06:00

12 bags weighing 50 lbs each, 6 carry-on suitcases full of clothes and shoes, 6 backpacks full of airplane activities, and 6 Porters so excited they can't sleep!!!  It's bedtime here for our kids and as I tuck them in, pray with each of them, and kiss them good-night, I realize this is the last night I will go through the bedtime routine with 4 children.  It's 6 am in Addis, Mary-Aster isn't

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-79324069104124163242011-01-08T00:29:00.002-06:002011-01-10T20:50:34.740-06:00

In 4 days we leave to get Mary-Aster... We're not sure how long we'll be gone. At least 2 weeks but it could be more. I have been washing clothes, gathering medication, choosing airplane activities, buying junk food, and collecting formula. Tonight, clothes finally started going in suitcases and formula in trunks - suddenly this trip seems REAL! It has been a busy and long few days. I am so

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-18354687354599562662010-12-03T08:18:00.000-06:002010-12-03T08:18:54.967-06:00

Here she is...... Mary-Aster   And here we are the day we met her!!!  Happy day!!!   "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  His faithful love endures forever.  Who can list the glorious miracles of the Lord?  Who can ever praise Him enough?" Psalm 106:1-2

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-13226221514070326512010-12-02T22:19:00.000-06:002010-12-02T22:19:19.741-06:00

Do you ever have those moments of deja vu where you feel like you've read something on a blog post before .... Do you ever have those moments of deja vu where you feel like you've read something on a blog post before .... Ha Ha .... really though ... this blog post might feel like deja vu of the one I typed on November 21st (last paragraph) because it is the same story for tonight. As we

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-43234107363500624272010-11-29T20:43:00.000-06:002010-11-29T20:43:26.018-06:00

Our family is learning a new rhythm of life - in a good way, but sometimes good is also hard.  It seems as though our family has been in a transition of some sort for 6 months or more. We have had 4 or 5 major family changes in less than 6 months.  They are good changes, but they are challenging changes.  They have been changes that have forced us to depend on God above everyone and everything

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-51610277936032846642010-11-23T12:19:00.001-06:002010-11-23T12:20:01.875-06:00

We did not pass court again! Our case has been rescheduled for December 1st. "Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand His ways!" Romans 11:33

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-67273458680613438542010-11-22T16:45:00.000-06:002010-11-22T16:45:11.405-06:00

I didn't forget to post, I just don't have anything to post. No news yet from Ethiopia and so we wait. I've decided I'm not a big fan of waiting! Romans 8:26-28 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. for example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-30781464153947708512010-11-21T17:01:00.000-06:002010-11-21T17:01:06.109-06:00

We arrived in Ethiopia on Saturday night. Everything went very smoothly at the airport getting our luggage, getting our shuttle to the hotel and getting checked in at the hotel. Sunday morning we returned to Beza International Church where we had worshiped with our dental mission team last month. We felt right at home and truly enjoyed our time of worship. We met up with our new friends, Levi

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-2846607047451579842010-11-14T21:01:00.000-06:002010-11-14T21:41:52.275-06:00

We returned home from Ethiopia yesterday. We met our beautiful daughter on Wednesday and she stole our hearts!! She is precious and God has blessed us beyond what we could have imagined. I plan to blog about our days in Ethiopia and our experience of meeting Mary-A, but for tonight I will just give a quick court update.Everything went smoothly at court with her birth mother relinquishing

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-78384692231449495142010-11-09T09:12:00.001-06:002010-11-09T09:16:45.923-06:00

I'm laying in my bed in Nekemte, Ethiopia. It's 1:00 in the morning. So many thoughts are rushing around in my head and heart. Today we meet our daughter! I won't even pretend that I can articulate what I am feeling. All I know is that God has gone before us this entire trip and He is preparing our hearts and Mary-A's heart right now as she sleeps-as she sleeps in her orphanage for the last night

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-73910535539165832022010-11-05T13:54:00.000-05:002010-11-05T13:57:53.061-05:00

Travel day is finally here! We are walking out the door and headed to the airport. I will send updates whenever possible.Please pray for safe travel, peaceful hearts, amazing union with Mary-A (Nov 9th), God's blessing on meeting birth mother (Nov 9th), and successful court date (Nov 12th).Can't wait for everyone to see our beautiful daughter!!

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-90472490902961001902010-11-02T22:00:00.000-05:002010-11-02T22:00:00.490-05:00

In 3 days we will be on our way back to Ethiopia. My heart skips a beat just thinking about it! I am obviously thrilled to finally be meeting our sweet Mary-A, to hold her, squeeze her, and kiss those adorable cheeks. But, there is also a thrill in my heart to be returning to Ethiopia. This country did something to my heart and I can't forget the beauty and graciousness of the people. I am

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-91453228605313128392010-11-01T10:30:00.000-05:002010-11-01T23:06:58.245-05:00

We will be on the plane bound for our daughter in Ethiopia in less than 4 days! I am SO filled with emotion there are no words to adequately express what is in my heart.However, the enemy is hard at work trying to distract and discourage here in the Porter family. We refuse to let him!! We have experienced some unexpected circumstances this past week, but I was reminded of the first verse we

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-41895316932711661692010-10-19T13:07:00.000-05:002010-10-19T13:30:43.965-05:00

We are so grateful that we have already been to Ethiopia because that helps us know what to expect from the air travel, country, and accomodation side of things. There are many other details to be sorted out and put in place!We will be leaving DFW on November 5th. We are planning to worship at Beza International Church on Sunday and meet with new friends we made on our last trip. Monday

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-81027811173377717332010-10-16T10:25:00.001-05:002010-10-16T10:31:01.256-05:00

We got the phone call yesterday afternoon.We have a NOVEMBER 12TH court date! We are SO SO SO excited!! Thank you for praying so faithfully for our family.God is Good and His timing is perfect!!

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-2720211144151808042010-10-03T15:13:00.000-05:002010-10-03T15:35:27.280-05:00

Mission Trip - Day 1We spent our first day at Kingdom Vision International orphanage. This is the orphanage our dear friends, the Alexanders, got their first little boy from. As our vans drove in, the kids were so excited and swarmed around. They ran up and hugged and kissed us - so so beautiful. There are 85 children at this orphanage from infant to teenager and they were all amazing. After

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-22946326545710787242010-09-30T13:19:00.000-05:002010-09-30T13:22:39.542-05:00

We are walking out the door to catch our flight to Ethiopia. The emotions have never been higher and I just received an email that our paperwork is officially filed with the courts. We continue to pray for God's favor in a speedy court date!!I will update from Ethiopia as much as possible.Thank you friends and family for your prayers --- we are off to the country that will bring us our children

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-51478597047915981662010-09-21T22:35:00.000-05:002010-09-21T22:53:50.655-05:00

We (Craig and I) leave for our first trip to Ethiopia, a mission trip, in 9 days. We are blessed to be part of Ethiopia Smile - a group of 66 dentists and non-dentists going to Ethiopia to be the hands and feet of Jesus (more about the trip www.teamalexander.blogspot.com). My heart can't even begin to grasp what we are going to experience - and I am so excited, anxious, grateful and yes, a

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-32711871703926933562010-08-23T09:57:00.000-05:002010-08-23T10:47:08.561-05:00

Life and routine has returned to a majority of families. Today was the first day of school for public schools. But here at the Porterhouse, we have 2 more weeks of summer. Our summer has been hot and chaotic and hot and crazy and, did I mention HOT? With the drama of moving, settling in to our lovely new home, and finalizing adoption plans, we haven't had a chance to just relax , refresh,

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-35593776367730453212010-08-06T18:28:00.000-05:002010-08-07T11:41:28.414-05:00

We have officially accepted a referral for a one year old little girl. She is GORGEOUS and I can hardly wait until we are allowed to share pictures of her. Craig and I with his office manager who has notarized more documents for us than one person should ever have to!! A HUGE thank you!!We are prayerful that we will be able to adopt a toddler boy in 6-12 months. Next step, court date this

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-5280718847574630872010-08-05T10:50:00.000-05:002010-08-05T10:54:56.500-05:00

Exciting things are on the horizon - I am hoping to have a wonderful update to share in a few days!!!Jeremiah 29:11-12"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-18169884865891694752010-07-27T12:09:00.000-05:002010-07-27T12:29:04.691-05:00

Things have changed a little in our adoption story. I'm sad to say that we have run into some complications with our 3 year old boy. I am not sure how much information I am allowed to share publicly, so I will not share much except to say that it appears there will be a some what lengthy waiting period before he can be adopted. My heart is SO sad and I don't understand why, but it is not my

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-36768227640879649382010-07-21T22:39:00.000-05:002010-07-21T22:47:01.482-05:00

We are officially in our new home - it's been a challenging experience, but one FULL of blessings. The most difficult part is all of the things that were second nature at the other house: turning on the lights, throwing away trash, brushing teeth, getting a drink .... take effort and thought which makes them feel difficult (thank you Julie for helping me articulate my anxiety). If you take that

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-47677305868396631192010-07-07T20:32:00.000-05:002010-07-07T23:13:53.056-05:00

TODAY -We went here:To get these signed:Because we've been matched with:We will be receiving official referral paperwork on an adorable 3 year old boy and beautiful 1 year old girl. Until we sign the referrals nothing is official, but we are already head over heels for these little ones!!! YWAM Ethiopia is still waiting for one document on the little boy and then the referral paperwork can be

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-21233444848277274362010-06-25T21:00:00.001-05:002010-06-25T21:16:26.537-05:00

Craig made it home safely and he brought all the kids the most beautiful Chinese pajamas!! (Hint: look closely - notice anything?)

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-82832791759194029082010-06-22T18:19:00.000-05:002010-06-22T18:36:33.843-05:00

We would covet everyone's prayers over the next few days as we have some decisions to make regarding the adoption. Craig is still in China so he is praying during the night while I am sleeping and I am praying during the day while he is sleeping. We can hardly wait for him to return so we can pray together!! Specifically, will you please pray with us for the following:1) God's will to be

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-92167727122897522632010-06-08T20:01:00.000-05:002010-06-08T20:44:17.611-05:00

Our church kids camp starts tomorrow. While this is technically 'kids' camp - we are making it into family camp. Craig is corralling 12 third grade boys (bless him), Hannah is going for her 3rd year, Luke is going for his 2nd year, and this is Katy's first year. I am coordinating crafts for the camp and so Emily Jane is my little side-kick (but don't tell her that, she thinks she is old enough

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-86277344956242696162010-05-18T10:26:00.000-05:002010-05-18T11:07:44.459-05:00

Our lives are in boxes and boxes and boxes ... and I've discovered that boxes can hold more than books, dishes, toys and linens, they also hold memories!! LOTS of memories. I am usually a thrower awayer -- I am more likely to toss something into a big plastic trash bag (the black kind so the kiddos can't examine the contents) than keep it. But packing the house has been different, I am finding

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-27054593983089854072010-04-26T08:15:00.000-05:002010-04-27T09:01:23.022-05:00

We've had a busy few weeks. Our house has been on the market (again) and we have been praying faithfully for God's perfect timing and wisdom. Fortunately, we accepted an offer on our home and are schedule to move the first few weeks of June. This has been a long time coming -- many have supported us (my neurotic cleaning and pacing) and prayed with us for this to happen. The story is funny,

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-18863779727013065852010-04-13T10:58:00.000-05:002010-04-13T11:03:51.441-05:00

Through a series of unfortunate events (mail being stolen in our neighborhood) I have had the privilege of email correspondence with the local hom*ela*nd security office handling our I-600a application (fingerprints). They have been helpful, courteous and timely!!! So timely in fact, that I just got an email that informed us that our fingerprint application has been APPROVED!!! Our formal

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-56158769205815924612010-03-10T16:41:00.000-06:002010-03-10T17:15:52.705-06:00

"Please fasten your seat belt, keep your arms and hands in the car at all times, and hold on tight. Welcome to the international adoption roller coaster - you are in for the ride of your life!"Anyone that is involved in Ethiopian adoption has heard the news posted today at the Court in Addis Ababa. Adoptive parents must appear at their child/children's court hearing. What this means for us

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-70365778512983515592010-02-21T22:13:00.000-06:002010-02-21T22:24:04.097-06:00

The Lord showered us with favor on Friday. Not only were we able to get our fingerprints successfully done, but it was very fast and friendly. Once we get our official I-171 - fingerprint clearance/approval - we are officially on the waiting list! We are SO excited and fully trust God for His timing in when we will get our referral. "So remember this and keep it firmly in mind: The Lord is God

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-75786374759932854542010-02-15T17:11:00.000-06:002010-02-15T17:43:54.788-06:00

No fingerprints on Friday (insert my VERY sad face) but it wasn't because we weren't there! This was the biggest snowstorm in over 30 years for North Texas, and what are the chances it would happen the night before our longed for fingerprint appointment?My sweet Craig got up early and spent an hour digging our cars out of the driveway, trimming and tying back tree limbs so we could open our

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-87671915374090869812010-02-11T23:51:00.000-06:002010-02-12T00:38:02.349-06:00

I'm laying in bed posting from my iPhone because I'm too cold to get up and go to my computer. As we lay here, we just heard another tree limb break. That's because Texas trees are not meant to stand up under 10 inches of snow (and the snow's still falling). This is the biggest snowstorm in Texas history. It's really all fun and exciting, except that we have our fingerprint appt in the

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-79623928970182342892010-02-08T23:55:00.000-06:002010-02-09T00:41:29.516-06:00

Rock of Gibraltar - mountain in background is Africa -bring on the tears ... our children are just across the water I have had numerous random thoughts floating around in my head lately. I want to get them down so I can remember all that my Father is teaching me (and our family).One of the things I love the most about our adoption journey so far - are the tears. I love that Craig and I both

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-62832502627094903242010-02-04T20:55:00.000-06:002010-02-04T21:50:13.818-06:00

Many of you are familiar with this wonderful book, "The Hole in Our Gospel". I read it numerous months ago, but my mind keeps going back to many of the things I read in it. They have been swimming around in my head, I have been praying about them to God and I have been journalling about what God wants from me. Here is the question that really grabbed me. "What are you going to do about it?"

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-40377099879023435032010-02-02T00:22:00.000-06:002010-02-02T00:44:16.732-06:00

I have added a few new fundraising items that you will LOVE! Check out the frayed baseball hat and the cow bone earrings. I know it sounds weird 'cow bone' - but they are beautiful!! An awesome addition to your Uganda bead necklace!! Something for him and something for her.

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-44245376433588316762010-01-25T10:12:00.000-06:002010-01-25T10:19:21.166-06:00

I'm placing another t-shirt order from 147 million orphans this week. If you want one, order now!! Several men & women styles to choose from - Youth and Toddler shirts available now too!!! Don't forget Uganda magazine bead necklace are still for sale.Thank you for all of your support!!!

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-15512967548010546122010-01-19T14:57:00.000-06:002010-01-19T15:05:32.481-06:00

Okay, so it is a few days late to count as a birthday present, but ... WE GOT OUR FINGERPRINT APPOINTMENT in the mail today. I am SO excited. I can't imagine what I'll be like when we finally get our referral and see our cute kids.Thank you LORD for being a completely sovereign and good God!

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-6461566069513184142010-01-12T14:21:00.000-06:002010-01-12T14:42:43.588-06:00

I am hoping for a birthday present in the mail tomorrow .... our fingerprint appointment from USCIS. Is that asking too much?? As of tomorrow, we will have been waiting 3 weeks. Now, I understand the national average right now is 2.5 months and we were told to expect 7-9 weeks, but a girl can still hope, can't she??

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-7372612759874730572010-01-05T14:11:00.000-06:002010-01-05T14:23:54.622-06:00

I am SO excited .... through our partnership with 147 million orphans I can now offer Uganda Magazine Necklaces. I can not guarantee how long they will be available, but I can guarantee you will NOT want to miss out!!These incredible necklaces are made by the beautiful women of the Karamojong tribe. Each is hand crafted from re-cycled magazines. Your purchase of a necklace serves two needs -

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-49465732465622382452010-01-03T15:25:00.000-06:002010-01-03T16:26:28.357-06:00

FINGERPRINTS!!Bad News: Our mail was stolen during the Christmas holiday.Good News: Our Homeland security Notice of Action was not in the mailbox that day. The next day we received our official notice that our I600A document has been received and is being processed.What does that mean? It means we will soon receive an appointment day and time to get our fingerprints done and then (drum roll

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-22014091018618668082009-12-30T22:16:00.000-06:002009-12-30T22:34:36.036-06:00

I've never posted via my iPhone and I'm clearly struggling with it. I just a few mins o quiet and wanted to reflect on all the 2009 was about and what 2010 holds for our family. I'm sitting here in front of a fire at the family lakehouse and I'm so grateful to be able to relax and reflect on the journey we are on right now. God is at work in our family in ways I can't explain but as a mom I

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-60743854205321831132009-12-20T23:56:00.000-06:002009-12-21T00:01:53.468-06:00

I am placing my t-shirt order this week. If you want to order and haven't, now is your chance !! We are getting closer and closer to getting our dossier to Ethiopia. I will post an update on our journey soon. In case you didn't know, Christmas is in 5 days ... so much I still want to do.

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-56122515817802405742009-12-01T22:46:00.000-06:002009-12-01T23:53:51.752-06:00

"Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says ... he will be blessed for doing it." James 1:22,25Our adoption journey began earlier this year. We have been blessed by a beautiful friendship with the Alexanders and it was at Abe's one year birthday party that the words were first put to our heart's pull toward adoption. The words were spoken just between Craig and

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-78584950121015389632009-11-22T16:14:00.000-06:002009-11-22T23:38:30.534-06:00

Our adoption process continues to move forward in several ways. We almost have our dossier completed - still wrestling with the bank to get the right letter from them, and reading through the draft of our homestudy. We need to get our CIS approval and get our dossier authenticated before it can be sent to Ethiopia and we then can be put on the official waiting list -- so, all that stands

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-14631893984486448862009-11-01T20:09:00.000-06:002009-11-01T20:11:47.282-06:00

We had a very fun Halloween serving 250 hot dogs and 400 goody bags as a homegroup. It was even bigger than last year and we are shooting for the moon next year. Here are a few costume pics: We had a rose fairy, red ninja, blue bonnet fairy and rockstar. We had plenty of glitter, pink hairspray and weapons!!We completed our homestudy today. Craig feels

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-35114042357416250082009-10-20T21:34:00.000-05:002009-10-20T22:15:10.238-05:00

Our Homestudy has been scheduled for Nov 1st (Happy Birthday Boba). I am not sure what I was thinking scheduling it the day after Halloween, but it was the first available date in November, so there you have it. We may be hiding costumes and candy in the car - not sure what to do about the sugar high all the kids will be on .... but perhaps they will just appear to be joyful, happy, jovial

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-56398271246356636162009-10-07T14:25:00.000-05:002009-10-07T14:45:32.554-05:00

We received word yesterday that our adoption application has been approved!application read to go!paperwork - paperwork - paperworkNext step .... Homestudy!!Please pray for God's financial provision as we move forward. We know that this journey is all about trusting God each step of the way. We pray that our faith in WHO God is will be so impressed into our souls that it is lived out through

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-55955427096611225092009-09-30T10:50:00.001-05:002009-09-30T15:30:02.384-05:00

Fourteen years ago today Craig and I committed to spend the rest of our lives together. It has been an incredible ride so far and I am looking forward to all of the fullness that the years ahead hold for us. God's sovereignty astounds me as I look at our life together. Thank you God for the amazing man you gave me and thank you Craig for being such a godly husband and best friend.Our

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-54817650333206530912009-09-29T23:42:00.000-05:002009-09-29T23:44:25.072-05:00

The realization of the call of God on a life may come with a sudden thunder-clap or with a gradual dawning, but in whatever way it comes, it comes with the undercurrent of the supernatural, something that cannot be put into words; it is always accompanied with a glow (Oswald Chambers)

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-67046937931815865242009-09-25T17:37:00.000-05:002009-09-25T17:45:49.413-05:00

We came home this afternoon after getting Craig from the airport to a house guest. An unwanted house guest. I caught a glimpse of its bushy brown tail in the playroom and screamed so loud it jumped against the glass door to try and escape. I ran the other direction into our bathroom to barricade myself someplace safe. Luke, sweet Luke, is trying to coax it out the back door he is holding open

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-88009436621531146022009-09-24T19:21:00.000-05:002009-09-24T19:40:45.475-05:00

I opened the front door and threw out $40. Okay, not literally, but I might as well have. Craig is out-of-town and I didn't feel like cooking. So, it was time to order in. We are having pizza at homegroup tomorrow night, so I tried to get creative - which isn't too easy when you still want the food brought to your door. Did y'all know that Pizza Hut has a whole menu of non-pizza items? If

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-20212205554567084982009-09-22T09:12:00.000-05:002009-09-22T09:54:12.194-05:00

Craig and I have prayed for YEARS and YEARS that Christ would use our family for HIS glory and HIS kingdom. Of course, we didn't know what that looked like - but now we find ourselves living a life that is much different from the one we pictured when we got married almost 14 years ago (Sept 30, 1995 was the big day). I realize now that when we opened our hearts to God's calling and said 'yes'

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-4815988922087040872009-09-15T23:00:00.000-05:002009-09-15T23:10:09.888-05:00

I am grateful for times when others do not embrace our decision to adopt. Why? Because God is providing opportunity. Opportunity for us to grow, opportunity for us to share our hearts and declare Christ's love, opportunity for others to be touched and most importantly for HIM to be made famous. See, we realize now that God calling us to adopt isn't about us, and it isn't about the children He

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-76142572850832517202009-08-28T15:30:00.000-05:002009-08-28T15:41:22.233-05:00

I get to see Luke's hiding spot for hide-n-seek tagI let Emily carry around her doughnut holes and play while she eats themwe get the 'car' grocery cart and I get 4 really good helpers!and because I get to see these sweet smiles and have fun with them all during the day !!!I am truly a blessed woman!!!

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-68201638519132568162009-08-25T08:53:00.000-05:002009-08-25T09:10:09.261-05:00

Psalm 145:13 The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.I have found myself wavering between overwhelming excitement and paralyzing fear. I hate when I feel fearful. I look back in my life and see instances that I missed out on really neat, fun, and possibly life-changing stuff because of fear. It isn't like fear of heights, after all in our younger days we went

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-37211108839761682402009-08-15T12:09:00.001-05:002009-08-15T12:57:45.078-05:00

What do the Porters do on a beautiful Saturday morning in Texas? This of course Craig is in the neighbor's tree cinching up the zip-line...yes, it goes across the streetCan you see the expression on Katy's face?No, we didn't bring a monkey home from Gibraltar - that's LukeHannah waving to her fansEmily Jane - not scared for a second

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-24473086364519002352009-08-13T23:27:00.000-05:002009-08-13T23:42:44.482-05:00

Have y'all read this book? It was one of the favs around here for quite some time, so we read it over and over. I feel like the peddler carrying my hats on top of my head - not to sell, just to balance and wear. In the book there is a little peddler man that has a stack of hats on his head "first he had on his own checked cap, then a bunch of gray caps, then a bunch of brown caps, then a bunch

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-90114543361461033152009-08-06T22:59:00.000-05:002009-08-06T23:21:27.555-05:00

I can't stand to hold it in any longer, it's true, we are growing our family through adoption from Ethiopia. We are overwhelmed with so many emotions but most importantly we know that this is what God has called our family to and we fully trust Him. Nervous, excited, unsure, anxious, hopeful, how many emotions are we suppose to have at one time? And the paperwork holy cow the paperwork! So

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-52799098333974373202009-08-04T12:18:00.000-05:002009-08-04T13:26:52.283-05:00

After the festivals were finished we stayed and traveled a bit with Manny & Jamie (full-time missionaries in Spain). Our travels first took us as far south as possible to Marbella, Spain - where we became beach bumsBehind the kids is The Rock of Gibraltar - which was our next stopGibraltar is a British Territory - which was really cool because we drove across the border and all of the sudden we

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-17980412737104195452009-07-16T10:19:00.000-05:002009-07-16T12:40:53.144-05:00

SPAIN TEAM 2009Our first festival was Saturday night - the same day we arrived. Tired? YES Confused? YES Chaotic? YESThe good news is the God was not tired or confused and He is not a God of chaos. God spoke to hearts this first night and over 30 people prayed, at the festival, to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. PRAISE THE LORD!explaining the Gospel using the bead braceletsWe quickly

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-245580329801003722009-07-15T15:08:00.001-05:002009-07-16T10:19:51.700-05:00

S P A I NWow!! I don't even know where to begin..... I guess with:Day One - Departure and ArrivalFriday, June 26th 1:30 pmLeaving home to carpool from churchLeaving Arlington TX in our bright blue team t-shirts10 adults6 kids(the rest of the team was meeting us there)32 checked bags20 carry-on bags16 hearts dedicated to the Lord's workSaturday, June 27thOur little man, Luke, turned 8 on the

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-19264448682019484792009-06-08T10:31:00.000-05:002009-06-08T10:59:21.071-05:00

BeforeAfterEmily is ready for summer with her cute new haircut. Isn't she CUTE?!Now I can add beautician to my resumé

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-66613228436252575512009-06-04T13:24:00.000-05:002009-06-04T15:59:48.438-05:00

StretchingPunchingLast night was a big night for Luke. He moved up to a green belt. I know this was very exciting for Luke, but now that I look back, it was a meaningful night for mama too. We were getting ready to leave for his test and he was concerned that his uniform was not as presentable as it should be. What? Is this coming from the same boy that will wear the same clothes day in and

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-78753701733295013982009-06-02T21:58:00.000-05:002009-06-02T22:37:13.014-05:00

Matthew 9:37-38Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."Mistletoe Farms Day 1 - April 4, 2009We were so proudMistletoe Farms Day 59 - June 2, 2009Now that's a garden!God has blessed us with the opportunity to plant a garden with some homeschooling and neighborhood friends.

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8096107377768626707.post-56574170874645458012009-05-07T11:31:00.000-05:002009-05-07T12:55:32.880-05:00

Well no better way to start a blog of our family than with Craig rolling a race car. He went with his company to Mexico to participate in the 'Wide Open Ensenada Four Day Off-Road Adventure'. I love that Craig always goes for it 100% - he never holds back and wheWell no better way to start a blog of our family than with Craig rolling a race car. He went with his company to Mexico to participate

The Porter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02170703098378834523noreply@blogger.com1