Nelms Adoption - Help us bring her home!

Three years ago, we heard about an orphanage in Sierra Leone, West Africa through a video at church. We soon learned this war-torn area was one of the poorest countries in the world, yet had 350,000+ orphans within its small country. Although Africa had never really been on our radar, we felt called to go. We traveled there together in 2011, and have not been the same since. For the first time, our eyes were truly opened to orphan care. We returned home "gloriously ruined" by what we had witnessed, and our world was turned right side up.

We know that Jesus has a special place in His heart for widows and orphans, and we are called to help them (James 1:27). For some, it may be tithing to their local church, participating/supporting outreach/mission trips, adoption, and so many other ways; we've been called to adopt. If you would have told us three years ago, that we would be here now, we probably wouldn't have believed you. But that's what love does. Love changed us. Love changes everything.

In April 2012, Megan met Kadijah for the first time. At that time, she was 4 years old. She initially was coming to The Covering only for meals, but was taken in full time in August 2012 due to her home situation. Since that time, she has grown into a very confident, secure, and happy little girl. She is now 6 years old. She loves to sing, dance, and swim. She loves being a friend to others. Over the last year and a half, we have developed a relationship with through weekly Skype sessions, letters, and in-country visits. We both feel strongly convicted that she is the child God has called us to adopt. Our desire is to bring her home and surround her with the love and family she deserves.

Many of you have wanted to know how you can help. Thank you for that. There are several ways:

1. Prayer. Please be in prayer for Kadijah, for our family, and for the upcoming journey/transitioning. We pray that God will continue to lead us in His will for His glory. God has made the path clear thus far, for which we are thankful, and we boldly expect that to continue.

2. Consider financial support. Adoption is expensive. Really expensive...but worth every bit. Please don't minimize any gift by saying it's too small, because anything helps. If you feel led to donate, you may do so in several ways:

* Directly to us
* Through this site, GoFundMe.org
* Please know that all gifts, given directly or on this site, are
  considered personal gifts and are not tax-deductible.

We want to acknowledge the overwhelming love, prayers and support that many of you have provided so far; whether it has been prayers, financial support, donated supplies, etc...it has certainly not gone unnoticed. We are beyond grateful and humbled by the friends and family that have rallied around us. This is such a joyful and exciting season in our lives, and we are truly thankful for you being a part of it. We could not do it without you. God bless you!