This week has been a whirlwind of news, events, celebrations, and crazy happenings.

P's birthday was Thursday so much of the week was spent prepping for that in the midst of our new adventure in HOMESCHOOL! Little did I know what fun was in store for the week besides P's bday celebration!

About two weeks ago my friend called to tell me that her school raised money just for a family adopting. And with the help of AdoptTogether, we were the family they selected. On Wednesday we got to meet the kids and teachers who donated and thank them for their support. How crazy that a school our kids don't even attend raised money to support our family?! I just can't believe it.

Then, on Wednesday night, I laid in bed with P as the clock ticked over past midnight so I could sing her happy birthday. We laid there talking and giggling and she quickly fell back asleep. As I snuggled with my seven year old, I had this overwhelming urge to pray for protection for her, C, our house, our family. I think I laid there praying for protection for half an hour. I'm super good at worrying so going to sleep was difficult that night.

We woke up very early Thursday morning to some scary happenings. Our car, garage, and at least 6 of our neighbors' cars were broken into overnight. All of our car doors were wide open as well as the garage door. The garage door remote that was in my car was also stolen. TERRIFYING.

Thank goodness the house was not broken into and the items stolen from us are easily replaceable and we have insurance. But the feeling of being invaded is so yuck. But our family was very clearly protected. No one was hurt and nothing permanent was damaged. More gratitude.

We shut the doors, went back into the house and celebrated our oldest's birthday. It was the ultimate test of my ability to "fake it til I make it". We made cinnamon rolls, gave her presents, and enjoyed a couple of hours together as a family. Then P and I went to volunteer for a little while at Children's Hunger Fund and on to a little birthday tea together.

Steven and C spent the day at Lowe's, on the phone with insurance, and filing police reports. Poor guys. Not nearly as fun.

By the time we were on our way to dinner to celebrate P, I was completely emotionally spent. Right as we pulled into the parking the garage Steven got a phone call from Vickie, turned it on speaker phone and handed it to me. I was beyond confused. She and my dad were at an event to tell my mom's story and her love for adoption. She then told me she was with Denise Lopez (of http://everydayministry.net/) and that Denise wanted to speak to me. Once Denise got on the phone, she explained that she was on stage in front of 500 women at an event and she had an update on our adoption grant request. While on speaker phone in front of all these women, Denise told us that our family has been awarded a grant for our adoption that will tremendously help with this urgent $10k due on November 30th. I was beyond surprised. I don't think I've ever been more speechless in all my life (just ask Steven, he can attest to this truth).

Just the fact that they chose us and my whole family conspired to surprise me on P's birthday was phenomenal. And after such a scary morning. Whew. ALL THE FEELINGS. Every one of them. I haven't stopped crying tears of joy.

These two babes of mine were very excited to celebrate such exciting news!

And that means the $10k due November 30th is down to $3,783. I mean. You guys, it's so awkward and humbling to ask for financial support. This has been a season of launching two businesses (you know: very little income, lots of side jobs, becoming an uber driver, and tons of hustling to make ends meet) and lots of expenses; so, to be loved and carried and supported by our tribe is such a beautiful picture of humanity. Grateful, humbled, honored, astounded, and completely changed by you.

On Monday, I will make the request to AdoptTogether to send any extra money in our account to our adoption agency. We are hoping and praying that this small gap of $3,783 will be filled just in time for the Nov 30th deadline. I've asked for far more than I deserve, but if you have felt any desire to help us bring our boy home now is the time. The finish line is close. The end is in sight.

He will be in our arms so soon, but this money hurdle must be jumped first. Your love and support is making my family a possibility and I just can't begin to express how grateful I am for that.

We are SO CLOSE. If you even have $1 to give, please follow this link and your donation will still be tax deductible.

Seriously, I cannot thank everyone enough. Our family is growing because of you!