Last week was a big deal at the Shull house! We had two very big days in a row and I’m extremely thankful for both.
On Wednesday, March 18, we went to court as a family and completed the very last step of the adoption process. We officially adopted Ashby back in China on January 13 and she became a US citizen upon entry into the US on January 15, but the final step is called re-adoption and that’s when the US courts recognize her as adopted and her name officially gets changed (she’ll get a new birth certificate now and we can apply for her passport).
It was an early morning. We had to be in south Dallas by 8:00 AM and with traffic, that took us almost two hours (it only took us 30 minutes to get home without traffic..). My sweet parents met us there so that they could be a part of our little one minute moment with the judge.
Here we are waiting to go into the court room. We let Kensington skip school on this day so that she could be a part of the moment. Love my little family.
Last minute talk with our adoption attorney before going in. Notice Smith touching Kensington…those two are ALWAYS TOUCHING EACH OTHER. I probably say “keep your hands to yourself” at least 4,000 times a day :).
And here we are…a family of five. Andrew and I were both sworn in, we pledged to love and care for this child and raise her like our own. She is our own…forever and always.
Then the next day, we had our big appointment with Texas Scottish Rite Hospital.
Many, many, many of you have asked what’s wrong with Ashby’s right hand…but I didn’t want to say much until we had met with her new doctor. So, here you go…Ashby has a Vascular Malformation…so the problem isn’t her hand, it’s actually a birth defect that caused her heart to create too many veins on one side of her body (it’s just pooling in her hand, so that makes her hand appear large).
If you were to see Ashby without a shirt on, you would see blue all the way from the center of her chest (her heart) up to her neck and shoulder, down her right arm and into her hand. Her right arm is puffy (due to the increase in blood) and her right hand is extremely puffy and blue from where the blood is pooling. Thankfully, she is in no pain.
When we were shown Ashby’s information last summer, we were aware of this disorder and had a specialist in Washington DC look over her file. We were explained the health concerns and the cosmetic concerns and decided this was something we were willing to proceed with. We were given the name of a surgeon at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas who we thought would be caring for Ashby.
Fast-forward to China and when we saw Ashby for the first time, her condition seemed to be more severe than we had anticipated. The doctor at Children’s was wonderful and kindly suggested that her particular case would be better handled by a specialist at Scottish Rite. Well, you have to apply to get into Scottish Rite and after we applied, it took several weeks to be notified that she was accepted and then almost a month to get an actual appointment. Needless to say, we were anxious to meet our new doctor and hear what he had to say.
Andrew and I dropped the big kids off at school and took Ashby to her first appointment. She is just always such a sweet girl :).
We love, love, love our new doctor! He was so kind and thoughtful…he really took his time and answered all of our questions…he is just a really sweet man and I completely understand why he’s in pediatrics.
The bottom line from our first appointment is this…this Vascular Malformation will not ever be going away. Ashby is going to have to learn to live and adapt to it. His main concern for her are blood clots, so we’re going to do an MRI in the next few weeks to see what’s going on in there and then always be cautious of pain that could be leading to clotting. She is also going to start wearing compression garments to fend off clotting. Cosmetically, Ashby is always going to have the side effects of this condition…her right side of the torso, right arm and hand will always look different. This condition is just something we will always be managing.
We think this girl is absolutely perfect. We cannot even imagine her improved in any way. We just want her healthy. We want to make sure she stays healthy. And we always want her to feel confident in the love of her family.
After spending the day at this children’s hospital, I walked away feeling extremely blessed and grateful. There are so many families out there who deal with such extreme health problems, so little hope and so much pain. My heart is with them.
Right after I wrote this post, I opened my Bible and worked on my current Bible study. I was flipping through looking for a specific scripture when I passed by this page…
…the verse that I have marked there is 2 Corinthians 4:17…
For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever.
The date I have next to that scripture is November 14, 2007 (whenever I read something that really speaks to me, I write the date next to it and perhaps a note). On that particular date, I remember my doctor had called to tell me that my 5th IUI had not worked and I was still not pregnant. Little did I know when I clung to that verse on that date the blessings that were in my future…
At the bottom, I also wrote the date 05-21-09 next to the commentary for that verse because that was the day that I decided to move forward and begin myofunctional therapy (which was a big undertaking for three years). I remember being really depressed that day…but little did I know that only two weeks later, I would find out that I was 8 weeks pregnant :). There was a blessing just around the corner.
I showed you guys this because I don’t think it’s a coincidence that I write about a children’s hospital and then God lead me back to that verse. I know there are some of you out there right who are going through a really hard time…so, I hope you can find comfort in this verse too.
For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4:17.
Brittany Medland says
As always, thank you for sharing. You and your family are so wonderful!! 🙂 xo
Macy Strozier says
I love how you and your family are really religious. It gets me happy to see everyone smiling. God is always looking after us, even when you think he isn't.
Patty says
As I was reading this, I kept thinking, what an awesome testimony you have and to see that verse and then a picture of all three children together, God is so faithful and good. I am so happy for your family and I will continue to pray for Ashby. Have a blessed week.
Johannah says
Thank you for sharing Ashby's story. She is such a precious little girl!!
Anonymous says
The ending quote in this post will stay with me forever as I deal with heartache in my life. Thank you for sending this my way today. I greatly appreciate it.
Aleisha Bruce says
I'm so glad I read your post this morning. Yes, we all have things going on in our lives and this really helped me start my day, my week. Thank you for sharing your stories. It put a lot of perspective into my life today.
Dani {Adventures of a Pharm Girl} says
Thank you, thank you, thank you for always being so open and for sharing that sweet verse. May God continue to bless you and your family for many many years to come
xoxo
Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} says
It is such a wonderful idea to write down the dates and a reminder about why a particular verse speaks to you! I've never thought of doing that, but I love it! That pic of Ashby in her stroller is precious! YAY for the OFFICIAL Shull Family of 5!
kimm atwood says
Ashby is so blessed to be in your family. Thank you for sharing this with all of us!
Erin and Ryan says
This.is.beautiful. LOVE it all! Thank you for being so open and committed to God through everything – it makes all the difference!
Kelly @ The OK Momma says
Ashby could not be more beautiful! I love that verse, it's one that I had "forgotten", but I will definitely carry it with me today. Thank you for sharing your heart!
Jes says
Beautiful post! I've been looking for the perfect verse to share with a friend who's going through a difficult time right now and this one is perfect. Thanks for sharing!
Narci says
Oh my goodness. So sweet, mama! Love hat verse and congrats on a great week for the Shulls. Love you!
Julie says
Thank you so much for that verse. I really needed to read that this morning.
Blue-Eyed Bride says
Well I'm crying. Thank you for sharing your family's story and for sharing your heart. Xoxo
Cori Cane says
I'm with sheaffer, love the idea of writing the date with a little note next to verse that speaks to you! Also, I'd love to hear what bible studies you have done/are doing that are great!!! Please!! 🙂
Mackenzie says
Shay, seriously thank you for this post. First, that moment that Ashby was officially adopted into your family was so special I could feel it myself!! Second, posting that verse was truly inspiring. It really does come full circle, and God always has a plan. Thank you for your sweet and happy post 🙂
Dana Vissage says
I really needed that verse today. Thank you! And thank you for sharing your story… Ashby is perfect!
Anonymous says
Just beautiful–ALL of it!! Thank you for sharing that verse.
Kathy Lang
Mrs. Barnes says
I needed to read that verse this morning. I am heading to the doctor today for some blood work because I have recently suffered a miscarriage. I read your blog everyday and I believe God gives us signs everyday if we just take a minute to see what he is telling us. Reading this post was exactly what I needed to see in this moment. You have a beautiful family and Ashby fits in perfectly.
Erika Slaughter says
So encouraging!!! Thank you for sharing that AND we are so happy about your family of five! Love that Ashby Shull!!!
Roshunda N says
Thanks for sharing your story. So glad she isn't in any pain. I pray for your continued strength as a mother.
Olivia says
Love the verse, thanks for sharing! Something I will keep in mind constantly. And thanks for sharing such intimate details about your family life always – Ashby is so sweet and I'm very happy for the Shulls!!
Anonymous says
I just want to say thank you. I read all of your sweet family posts with a smile but this one made me stop and thank God for my blessings.
Slightly Askew Designs says
LOVE this post!!! LOVE you! LOVE your family! So many answered prayers.
clatk says
Hi, Shay,
Thank you for sharing Ashby's story. Our 3rd, our sweet (3 year old) Sadie has two rare conditions on the right side of her neck– one vascular and one lymphatic. We work with doctors at Children's in Dallas. I so completely understand your thoughts on how Ashby could never be improved or anything less than perfect, even with her vascular condition. Sadie will always live with the conditions, she will always have a slightly bigger neck and chest. She will deal with mean kids and staring adults, and will probably have thoughts of being ugly because she is different. To say it breaks my heart would be a severe understatement. All we can do is speak Truth over them and love them. I am so thankful Ashby has such an amazing family to walk through this with! If you haven't read it, go get the book Wonder by RJ Palacio right now. It is life-changing!!
Anonymous says
I have been reading your blog as a link from PTMT, and congratulate you on your family. Wanted to share that I have a vascular malformation on my face. I am 55 years old and thankfully, have not had any issues, other than cosmetic issues. Oh—due to blood pooling, I cannot be upside down for long periods ( circus acts were not in my future!) Your daughter has the best thing for this condition–family love and support. All the best!
Laci Page says
Thank you for an encouraging post. Love that verse.
Tracy says
Congrats on finalizing Ashby's adoption. What a precious addition to your family!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing that verse. My teenager is dealing with some health issues and you don't know how much I needed that verse this morning! Going to go highlight it in my Bible right now. I make notes in my Bible too but never thought to write the date. Great idea!
Goodbyebreadandcheese says
Thank you for this. It's just what I needed today. Who knew I would find such comfort from reading a blog? Congratulations to you and your family!
Angela Ellingson says
Beautiful. Thank you Jesus.
Laci Murray says
Beautiful scripture and thank you for sharing your faith. Sweet Ashby has a wonderful loving family.
Tracey says
I really needed that verse this morning. I just finished some quiet time and reading and then checked your blog. Thanks for the encouragement and sharing Gods word.
Meghan says
That verse is a new favorite! Love it!
Whitney S. says
Such a very sweet post! Ashby couldn't have been blessed with a better family. She is beautiful just as she is, your entire family is. Love the scripture notes, I do the same thing. 🙂 It's always great to look back on past struggles and claim victory. Be Blessed!
gracemountaindiaries says
Thank you for sharing your story and that verse. We are currently walking through special needs with my third, and it so hard, so wearying. I tell myself that he is perfectly made, and so so beautiful. But then the world creeps in, and I feel like he isn't perfect. I forget the truths. I forget the glory that works. Heading to another appointment this morning, thankful to have this reminder first. ?
Pamela Danckaert says
Congratulations on your "official" US family of five! God is so good! Ashby is such a precious child of God! You can tell from her sweet smile just how beautiful she is inside and out. What a Honey! I'm so thankful she is not in any pain. It is such a joy to see God's work and blessings in others lives. May he continually richly bless your family.
P.S. I LOVE how you've dated and marked in your bible. What a wonderful way to see how God has answered prayers and worked in your lives. I'm going to try this as well moving forward.
Kathy says
I'm thankful for your daily writing and sharing and today's was extra special. I'm going to start writing dates too! What a great idea. Ashby totally has our hearts. She is a gift!
Laura Fuller says
These adoption posts always make my bawl…
My husband and I are seriously considering applying to care for foster babies until they can be placed for adoption.
Briana Runde says
That verse… Just what I needed to hear this morning as I hav been in tears. THANK YOU for sharing it!
Jersey Love says
I absolutely LOVE that verse!!!
And bless Ashby's sweet little heart… you and Andrew and truly exceptional people.
Jenny says
Congratulations on your beautiful family of 5! And thank you for sharing such personal information. I am confident this truly will help someone out there with their personal struggles. What a blessing you are!
Anonymous says
Wonderful news about the adoption. Will be praying along side you all for Ashby! Your outward faith is such an inspiration. Could you please tell me what translation and version that bible is? Thank you!!
Anonymous says
Wonderful news about the adoption! Will be praying for sweet Ashby. Would you mind commenting in what translation and version your bible is? Thank you!
Colleen Langlois says
Thank you for the verse! Something I definitely needed to hear today as a few things have been weighing heavily on my heart. Can you tell me what version of the Bible do you use? God bless!
Molly Middleton says
Shay, you are so uplifting. When I think of a perfect blogger you come to mind. I love, love your family and am so happy God carried you through a tough time to get to a wonderful time.
Also, your outfits to the court and the hospital were SO. FABULOUS.
Morgan says
We have a similar photo with the same judge from when we re-adopted our son almost 2 years ago.:) Such a special memory!
I'm glad you got some definitive answers regarding Ashby's medical condition. We still uncover previously unknown medical concerns with our little guy from time to time (he's 4 now–has been with us full-time since he was 1). We just spent the afternoon getting a new diagnosis regarding an eye condition, in fact! It's a journey, and we're just thankful to be journeying with him. 🙂 Keep being her advocate, do all the research you can, and don't be afraid to seek other opinions as time goes by.
Sarah says
Thank you so much for sharing that verse. That's exactly what I needed to hear today! I've been trying to really seek God's will for my life and don't really feel any guidance. I felt like I was doing something wrong. I just kept wondering "why is everything so hard?" "Why can't I just have everything figured out?" And that verse reminded me that I don't have to have it all figured out. Things might be dark now, but there's something great coming. Thank you so much!
Anonymous says
I am very touched by your story and your faith. I appreciate your openness in sharing so freely. In doing so, you serve as a beautiful witness.
Alissa Gauvin says
I needed this verse today. Not because I'm struggling with anything in particular, but because I needed to be reminded of "the great glory that will last forever." Thank you!
Jenny Perez says
Congrats on completing your final step in the adoption process! It has been such a joy to read about your precious Ashby & watch God's hand in your lives. I'm sure that your candor with your struggles and God's grace will be a comfort to others. Loved the idea of dating & referencing verses. I'm going to steal your idea. :)Have a great week!
RebeccaLynn17 says
Congratulations on "officially" having Ashby as a part of your family!! God
is so good, and it is so amazing to watch how this sweet little girl from across the world has blended so completely well into your family and how loved and cared for she is by you all. May the Lord bless her life here in America!! Praying that she will continue to stay healthy!
Anonymous says
Amazing… Thanks for the verse, and thanks for sharing how God is working in your family's lives!! We agree – Ashby is just the sweetest!! And cutest!
Karen
Natalie Zambreski says
Loved those verses! So much power and comfort there!
Kim says
you are so encouraging and refreshing to read. That bible verse really spoke to me, I needed that this morning. Congrats on being a family of 5.
Cindy says
Hi Shay,
Your blog today was very touching. Thank you for sharing. I am so happy to see how far your family has come since last year before going to China. Your family is beautiful. Thanks for sharing the situation with Ashby's hand. It brought back memories of my Grams and when she was little back in the early 1900's she had an accident with her sibling he gave her a piggy back ride at the age of 3 or so and pulled her arm out of her socket, back then they didn't go to the doctors and from that time until she was adult and beyond her left arm and hand was disfigured. All her life she didn't let that get to her and she got married and had 3 sons and 3 grands. I am one of them and she took care of me. She did everything like cook and shop etc. Some things were hard not being able to use her other hand since there were no nerves. Just wanted to tell the story. I am sure the doctors will work able to do what they can so that she won't have many problems growing up but still have to be concerned about those clots and her heart. Prayers are with you all.
Jaclyn Johnson says
Hi Shay! I just wanted to thank you for being so open and sharing more about Ashby's condition with all of us. I've been praying for you and Ashby since you left for China to get your little girl and I will continue to pray for Ashby's health. The verse you shared made me hopeful and for that I'm thankful that you shared it! Have a good day…
Anonymous says
Scottish Rite is an AMAZING place. I took my daughter there 10 years ago and fell in love with everyone there. Praying for yall!
Lindsay Dunagan says
Thank you for sharing your life with us!! It has meant so much to me.
Can you tell me what bible you have? I like the commentary part. Thanks!
Ansleighsmom says
this seriously gave me chill bumps when I read that u opened the bible to that verse! God is good praying for your sweet girl and your precious family! thank u for sharing!
Leslie says
Hi Shay! Thank you for sharing. I know that was weighing on your heart and your family's heart- what the official diagnosis was on Ashby's hand. I'm so glad you looked back at your Bible and found comfort there. I also found comfort in many verses during my pregnancy! I like the way you write dates in your Bible. What a great idea!
Kelsey Mann Peacock says
What an exciting time for your family! I think it's so wonderful how you all accept Ashby for exactly who she is and just want to give her the best life possible 🙂 What a good job your family does of living God's word in your daily lives!
Whitney @ Work it Mommy says
Yay! What a wonderful joy it is to be officially recognized as a family of five. It has been so amazing following along with your journey.
Paula says
Congratulations! Shull FIVE!
What comes to mind about Ashby and God is, none of this is by surprise! What the world sees as a malformation, the Lord sees a testimony. God will use Ashby & your family, as He already has. That God is bigger than any idea we can envision. His grace & mercy are bigger than we can create. All for our good & His glory!
Thank you for sharing pieces of God's goodness in your life!
Sara Fehrenbacher says
Congrats! I'm so happy your family can officially call Ashby yours, although its clear she already is, and has been for a long time now. Thanks for sharing the bible verse. It is relevant to me during our infertility struggle, but also very relevant for a friend who is grieving her miscarriage today. I sent her the link, and encouraged her to read your blog. Us girls have to stick together, and what a better way than to share our stories. Thanks for sharing so much of yours!
JazzerMomma says
How about a Shade of Shay on bible studies you've done and loved?
God bless you and your family!
Melissa says
This post brought tears to my eyes!!! I don't know you personally Shay but love reading your blog. I'm so happy for you and your family! You are truly blessed!!!
Natalie Clark says
I love seeing the pictures of your family at the courthouse. My little sister is adopted, and we have pictures on that same bench. All four sisters and our parents in our B's T's outfits! Congratulations, Ashby is absolutely precious!
Anonymous says
Hi Shay,
I'm a long-time reader but haven't commented before. I actually work at a pediatric hospital (in a non-clinical area) and after reading this post, felt compelled to reach out.
I've heard that Dr. C. Matthew Hawkins specializes in this treatment–he's an interventional radiologist. From the little I know, I believe he's had success in caring for vascular malformations with this type of treatment.
It might be worth looking into! Prayers with you and your lovely family!
Elizabeth says
Thank you so much for your compassion for others at the children's clinic. I'm so happy that Ashby's birth defect is mostly cosmetic (and that the clotting issue will be dealt with and watched throughout her life).
We were one of those "other families" at a children's clinic for close to three years, before we brought our 8 year old son home with Hospice, due to terminal cancer.
Blessings to your family!
Jessica White says
Hi Shay~ I have been a long time reader…but don't usually comment. I am happy that you had a great week.
Thank you so much for sharing that verse with your readers today. I really needed it.
I have been struggling this week with many tough things and it reminded me that God is there and he sees my suffering right now. Thanks for the reminder.
Gwen L. says
Congratulations to your family! Both on the adoption of that beautiful girl, and that Ashby's condition is manageable.
Sallie says
What a beautiful testimony of God's provision in both your life and Ashby's life! I also mark dates in my Bible! Such an encouragement when I am able to look back and see how He was working in my heart and using His Word as a guide in good and hard times. So thankful for your story of His goodness and grace on your family. Our God is always able!
Whitney McCallister says
I enjoyed your post. I have always wanted to adopt but your story makes me want an adopted child even more. Thank you so much for sharing.
Lacy McMurry says
Precious post!
God is faithful.
angie says
Love the sweet reminders The Lord gives us just when we need them!!
I was treated at Scottish Rite when I was a kid and they did, at the time, new treatments for my scoliosis. It was 3 hour drove (w/out traffic) and I was a scared pre-teen girl, but the Doctors & Nurses there were amazing through several years of treatment!! Credit minimal back issues to their advanced treatment and care!!
Anonymous says
Would you mind sharing what Bible study you are doing? Love reading your blog.
Karen says
Love that verse!!! So much truth there….you guys will do a fantastic job raising her that I bet she will adapt as she gets older and has to face comments. I have a wonky eye that was made ugly due to lots of surgeries that left scar tissue. I cannot wait for my resurrection body that will be absolutely perfect!! Amen that Ashby will have that too! Blessings to all of you! Xox
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness! Thank you so much for your sweet words of love and encouragement. For those of you who have asked, I read the New Living Translation of the Bible. Thank you all so much. xoxo
Jennifer Cannon says
So excited that The Shulls are officially a party of 5!! God is good!
Such a good idea to write down the dates. Im going to start doing that!
Have a wonderful week!
xoxo
Jennifer
Anonymous says
Ashby is so cute, and always looks so happy!
I knew a person who was born with that same condition, but in her case it was one of her legs that was affected. She also wore a compression stocking. She is now my age (60), had two children, and has led and a perfectly normal life without any complications. I hope for the same for Ashby.
She is a lucky girl to be part of your family!
Corner of Sass and Snark says
You've, again, blessed me with a passage that I needed to hear. Thanks for always sharing. Know you are a blessing to people that don't even know you. 🙂
Grace Goodnight says
Shay-
I'm so glad you shared this verse- it was something I needed to hear after some weeks of disappointing news. Thanks so much being so transparent about your love of Christ and struggles! Prayers for Miss Ashby!
Anonymous says
Ashby is so lucky to have you and your family, just as lucky as you are to have her. Thank you for sharing her story and for choosing adoption. Such an inspiring story! Love reading your blog, your family is truly an inspiration!
April says
She is so perfect! I just love your little family! 🙂
Anna-Grace Pryor says
I have absolutely fallen in love with your blog! Mix and Match + a cup of coffee is how I start every morning! So happy for you guys officially becoming a family of 5!
Life as you know it says
That verse spoke to me tonight and brought me to tears. Thank you!
jularie says
My younger sister (55 years old) has the same vascular condition. Her right arm & shoulder are a little misshapen and the arm looks swollen. People are curious and often ask her what she did to her arm because it kind of looks like its badly bruised, but no one has ever been cruel about it. She just tells them it's kind of an internal birthmark. It never bothered her as a child, but now aches occasionally when she's tired. She's been MRI'd for clots and instructed to watch for them and even tried (unsuccessfully) laser treatments several years ago. She doesn't shy away from sleeveless clothing, and to other people, it's really just a curiosity.
Jeanie says
Thank you for sharing. Blessings for you and your family.
Jennifer says
Love, love love your blog Shay!
A dear co-worker of mine is fundraising the fees to bring home an adopted baby of their own by this Christmas! Please pray for them, MixandMatch Readers – their site is below. It takes a village to bring a child home 🙂
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/it-takes-a-village-to-bring-a-child-home–2
JB and Cindy says
After loosing Evans and over 9 months later still no baby, I really needed your reminder from the Lord today. Thanks for sharing!
Debbie says
Great encouragement! Thank you! I am impressed with your sweet acceptance and your realization that there are so many who have greater trials. So many people cannot see beyond their own issues to see what could be so much worse.
Rebecca says
I love this post! Your sweet family is wonderful. I am so glad you shared that verse. I needed to find an encouraging verse for a friend…and I found it here. :). Thank you for being so open.
Tiffany says
Scottish Rite will be such a wonderful place for Ashby to receive her care! We drive almost three hours to Dallas–usually once a month–for our Molly Kate to be seen there. We love the doctors so much and call it our 'happy place in healthcare'!
Sarah E @ theteacherswife.com says
I love your with dating the passages – such a cool way to be remember how God speaks to us! Thanks for sharing that. And thanks for sharing about sweet little Ashby. She is perfect and I'm so glad she has parents like you who will advocate for her and do whatever you can to give her a healthy life. Our little guy was born with a cleft palate and has thrived after a successful repair…but my heart aches every time we go to the children's hospital for follow ups when I see kids facing lives full of challenges. God is so good though to remind you of his faithfulness!
Elaine Welte says
So excited for your little family and that Ashby is all yours!!! Praying for the right doctors to be put in your path and your strength and courage as you travel through this journey!
Anonymous says
beautiful family, We have a family of adult boys (men). If we were younger I would like to adopt a child, maybe a girl.I enjoy reading about your family,
Ashley L. says
You are amazing, Shay. So happy for your sweet little family, thank you for sharing with us.
Andrea (127things) says
Oh my gracious! Yaaaaay for the official Shull party of 5! Your testimony to how God knew what he was doing with your family long before you did is so beautiful. Ashby is a special, amazing little soul. Your entire family is gorgeous and glows with joy.
I appreciate SOO much the kind comment you left me the other day and you taking the time to read my new blog…I put up a new post tonight based on my mom's view of what true love is. I think you would
Andrea (127things) says
Darn phone! I'm sorry it cut me off! Anyways I think you would love it. Thank you for continuing to inspire every single day! Xoxo
Anne says
Hi Shay,
Such a sweet post in soooo many ways. Was wondering what version of Bible you use? Thanks bunches!
Anonymous says
I was adopted from South Korea when I was 3 months old. I am now 32 years old and every day I count myself very blessed to have been given the opportunity to be loved by a wonderful family who loves God. Ashby is so sweet and it makes me smile to see how much you all love and cherish her. May God Bless you and your family richly.
Denise Ross says
Beautiful post Shay. I love that verse. It keeps life and the hard moments on proper perspective for me too. Blessings 🙂
Simply Stephens says
God picked the perfect family for Ashby! I faithfully read you blog and pray for your precious family. I have been a nurse for 18 years and you are so right that things could be so much worse. It is very admirable of you to see it that way. Many people struggle when their children have medical issues. I will continue to pray for that sweet beautiful blessed baby girl. My 14 year old daughter also reads your blog and we are both hooked and love us some Shull's, all 5!
{Hi Sugarplum!} says
I am so happy for you and your precious family!! Such an amazing journey…and you are so inspiring in your faith!!! xoxox
alfulton says
I recently started reading your blog and so appreciate how much you have to offer your readers! I even made your caprese turkey burgers for my in-laws on Sunday night and they loved them. One question about this post – can you tell me what version of the Bible you read? The wording of the 2 Cor verse you posted was beautiful, but straight-forward.
alfulton says
I recently started reading your blog and so appreciate how much you have to offer your readers! I even made your caprese turkey burgers for my in-laws on Sunday night and they loved them. One question about this post – can you tell me what version of the Bible you read? The wording of the 2 Cor verse you posted was beautiful, but straight-forward.
Anonymous says
Shay, you just put that spark back in my heart. Having some troubles in life, and not growing up in a Christian household, and finding my faith on my own, I feel I struggle. And you just showed my some light and direction. You inspire me to move everyday, and then move out of those gym clothes and dress up and to be creative and fun in the kitchen for my family. Thank you for sharing and always posting so regularly, it's my weekly if not daily read, and I just feel relaxed then inspired. I know they are simple things, but for a mother, sometimes the simple things mesh in to one big thing and you don't know where to start. You break things down, and see ways to easily manage. Would love to read more about your routines and daily life. Much love from a mum in Australia. xx
Chic Coastal Living says
I love reading your blog and getting inspired. That scripture sure spoke to my heart. I'm definitely going to highlight it in my bible. God bless you and your beautiful family. 🙂
Jaren says
I'm so happy for y'all!! Love that scripture so much!
Lynn says
Thank you so much for sharing the verse! My husband and I are hoping to be able to adopt through Foster Care. We have been open since Sept and took a little girl not to long after we opened and sadly had to see her go two days later. Since then we have been quiet and I have had to keep reminding myself that our little one isn't ready for us yet. I read your post and verse which I truly needed to remind me its God's timing not mine through this waiting period when little did I know a mom was leaving her son at a local hospital that day and that we would get the call asking if my husband and I would be his foster parents on the following day!
I have the verse written out as a constant reminder as we have a long 6 months ahead of us before we can legally adopt him.
Thanks Again!
Lisa Selan says
I love God's perfect timing – those precious reminders that we see and read – many times when we least expect them. Thank you for living your faith out loud for young moms and those of us that are approaching the empty nest. Praying for Ashby…God has amazing things ahead for this little one.
Queen Bee says
We were also blessed to be accepted my Scottish Rite for my son. It is an amazing facility that makes you feel welcome the minute you walk in the door. How wonderful for Ashby to begin her journey with them! They are all angels sent to help our children..
Marty says
I am big on writing names/dates in my Bible. Great reminders of God's faithfulness and provision in my life…and hopefully it will be a great blessing to my children one day as well. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 is not for the faint-hearted. Because when we are in the middle of affliction or suffering of any kind, it most definitely doesn't feel "light" or "momentary." Or maybe that's just me. But next to that verse, I have our oldest son's initials and his birth-date…he was born with Down Syndrome, and like the verse says, we focus on the unseen and eternal. 🙂 God is always at work around us, even when we don't understand. Love, love, love this post, Shay.