Congratulations, Chris + Carmen!

This entry could also be titled, "Christmas in the NICU."

Carmen and Chris joined our CAC family in late August of 2015, after one of our CAC families referred them to me.
The biggest surprise however, came when this dear expectant mama went into labor early the very following week later, and delivered a sweet little girl at just 33 weeks gestation. This precious girl was perfect in every way, but just needed a little more time to get bigger and stronger.

They are a lovely young couple, who were looking to build their family through the blessing of adoption. Since they were already working on finalizing their home study, we were able to have them apply with our partner agencies very soon after going active with CAC. 

Chris and Carmen completed their home study certification during the first part of October, and immediately applied to an initial group of agencies I recommended, all of which were "drivable" from their home.  When they didn't have a case that immediately fit their needs in the first month, I suggested that we broaden the scope even more, and suggested one agency in particular that I felt would be a great fit for them. But it involved a plane ride.

They took the plunge and added this one additional agency to their list in early November.  And then --  they received a message at the end of November from the very same agency.  "Would they be willing to present their profile to a particular expectant mama?"

After prayer and consideration, they said "yes," and presented their Family Profile book to their very first case!  They were MATCHED the very first time!  We rejoiced. 

They were elated and a bit surprised to 'match' the very first time.  (I always caution my families not to 'expect' to be selected on the very first time, but yes, it does, and CAN happen!). 

Carmen and Chris flew out to support this brave young lady, and the baby, and patiently waited as their sweet Molly grew stronger and stronger in the NICU. 

This beautiful miracle Molly is a testament to the Lord's unfailing love and favor. As other preemie parents can tell you, the NICU is not a place for the faint of heart. But they had faith, and they were there for their sweet girl, as she grew each day.

The day that Carmen called me to tell me about the baby's unexpected birth -- she was so calm and collected.  Even more so, considering that the holidays were upon us, and she surely had a million things to accomplish before the end of the year. BUT - her mama heart was in action, and she was on her way to her baby girl.

It was a Christmas that they will likely not forget -- spending that day in NICU with their sweet little one, far from their home and relatives.

But thankfully they were able to return home two weeks later, with their sweet Molly in their arms -- roughly a month from when they first heard they heard the words "you've been chosen" over the phone.  

It was a roller coaster -- a three and a half month- long roller coaster from joining CAC (and about five months altogether til they were in their home with their precious daughter).  A roller coaster, but oh so worth it.

As Carmen just shared with me:

"Our story is truly amazing and we absolutely had a Christmas that we will never ever forget -- the best Christmas present ever. Thank you, again, for all of your help. You helped make our dream of becoming parents a reality and we are forever grateful to you and CAC. To God be the glory!" 

Congratulations!