Last week, Laura and I spent a few days in Louisville, KY. Not at the Kentucky Derby. We're not nearly that cool. At the annual Summit for the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Here we are, sporting the infamous SixtyFeet tees.



We were torn trying to decide if we were being cheesy by wearing our own shirts - in the end, we decided we didn't care. And we were so glad -- we met and made so many new friends because of these shirts and the way they connected us to SixtyFeet.

This week we heard some awesome speakers, we met some new friends and we reconnected with old friends. But I have to say that my favorite Summit experience had nothing to do with Summit at all. At this point, I can't give any details. But I will say that I'm beyond grateful that God allowed me to be in the right place at the right time and to participate in something that was truly breathtaking. This is not really my story to tell -- but I'm hopeful that my friend will give me permission to write about it one day soon. I do so love a good God story.

The day after we returned from Summit, we loaded the kids in the car and headed to Tennssee for a family wedding. Here are the flower girls with the beautiful bride:


Here are the ring bearers. Tell me this is not a montley looking crew:





And in three days, Dan leaves for Africa. This will be his first time back in Uganda since we brought Hannah and Joseph home. Please pray for him. And in your prayers, please don't forget the home team. This will be my first extended time by myself with all five children.

Check back with me throughout the week as I'll be posting details about Dan's trip, including an update on the famous Ernest and Catherine.

I'll say that after my time at Summit, I feel refreshed and encouraged. For some reason, it helps to know that anyone who is involved in orphan care ministry is facing the same trials and daily challenges that Dan and I face each day. It's just hard stuff. Adoption, orphan ministry, orphan care... it's not for the faint of heart.

"Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." -- I Peter 5:9

This is not to say that I rejoice over the challenges and hard times of my brothers and sisters in Christ, but it does help to know that what we're experiencing is normal. Dan and I might face trials and struggles every day -- but many brothers and sisters around the world stand with us. And for that, I do rejoice. Orphans are dear and precious to the heart of God and each of them is worth fighting for. It blesses me to know that we're all in this fight together.