Before I Called You Mine

by Nicole Deese

“The way to shape a child’s heart is through love. And the way to shape a child’s mind is through literature. When you read to a child, you accomplish both.”

There is purpose in the waiting, Lauren. Don’t allow yourself to lose sight of that.”

Every adoption story looks different, but every one of our children joined our family on the perfect day. God is always on time.”

“Because folding your laundry is how we can love you best today.”

My testimony can be summed up in one phrase: God’s way is rarely easy, but it’s always better than mine.”

“God doesn’t trick His children. He loves us, and everything He asks of us, or allows us to walk through, has a purpose.”

“Ask Him those questions. He’s big enough to handle your anger, your confusion. Your hurt.”

We often say in group that parenthood is a hamster wheel of self-denial, sacrifice, and unconditional love.”

We aren’t powerful enough to mess up God’s plan. Can we deny it? Yes. Can we delay it while we chase our own way? Absolutely. But sometimes our character needs time to catch up to our calling.”