Stephens Fam 9?!?

Have you ever had one of those weeks that rocked your world and one of those days that changed your life?  Well, I've had mine... all at once.  I'll try to give you the short version, but the Stephens Fam 8 is now the Stephens Fam 9!!

No, I'm not pregnant.  No, I didn't have another baby, and no I didn't adopt another kid.  How is this possible you ask?  We'll I've been given temporary custody of an amazing young man that will now be part of the Stephens Fam!  It may be a few months or it may be longer... Only God knows the long term outlook.

I'm amazed at how he puts things together for HIS glory!  We have been thinking and praying about helping this young man out for a few weeks.  In fact, we asked our Sunday School class to pray for us on Sunday about it.  We thought we would have to get an attorney and spend some money in legal fees for it to be official and for us to get power of attorney or guardianship or something.  I spoke with an attorney friend of mine for advice and we were waiting to proceed.  Well, that was all on Sunday and Monday. 

Yesterday evening, this young man came home from school and told us he was supposed to go to court tomorrow (meaning this morning) with his mom.  Long story short... she is not able to take care of him and asked if we would be willing to.  The judge ordered him into our custody, no questions asked!!  No attorney fees, no looking for a lawyer, no waiting months for papers to get signed.   It's over and done!!  Months before we even knew about this situation, God had worked out every single detail in order for this happen without a problem at all!!

So, we are excited to have a new member of the Stephens Fam.  You'll all get to meet him soon if you haven't already.  We're always excited about the adventures that God gives us and the life he has for us.  We've always considered reaching out to children in need as part of our family ministry.  I never dreamed I would be raising 7 children.  I'm not sure how I do it.  Only God gives me the strength, wisdom, and patience to persevere.  

We are asking for prayer for our house to sell quickly!  If you remember it at any time, please say a special prayer that God would send a buyer our way.  When we moved into this house, I had one precious baby girl.  Now, 6 years later, I have 6 more kids!!  And they are all big!!  We have outgrown this space.  We have a house in mind to buy, but need to sell ours first.  Any prayers would be appreciated.  I thought I'd give you the details before you start wondering who that big kid is with us all the time!  I love you all and thanks for sharing in our excitement with us!

God Bless!!