Kristin Hill Taylor

Seeking God as the Author of Every Story

  • Home
  • About
  • Books
    • Peace in the Process
    • Bringing Home More Than Groceries
  • Contact

God’s got us {aka Celebrating Cate on her 8th Birthday}

May 6, 2015 by Kristin 19 Comments

In honor of Cate’s 8th birthday, I thought I’d share an excerpt from “Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family” with you. Because we really like birthdays around here, my ebook is FREE through the end of today! Stick around because afterward is my traditional letter to my girl on her birthday … 

_____________________


God didn’t give me my way in December 2004 because his way in May 2007 was even better than I could imagine. Less than nine months after I stopped trying to become pregnant, I got to hold my daughter. …

My cell phone ring jolted me awake at 5:47 a.m. on Sunday, May 6. I’m not an early morning person, but I was thrilled to hear Mandy’s voice when I answered.

“My water broke and I’m on the way to the hospital,” she said.

Cate’s bags had been packed for weeks, but somehow Greg and I hadn’t packed our own clothes. Only the beginning of parenthood, I soon realized. We managed to be out of the house by 6:30 a.m., ignoring the dirty dishes on the kitchen counter as we locked our back door. Little did I know, this would be the first of many times in my life as a mother that dirty dishes (or any other chore) would have to wait.

We were at the hospital by 12:10 p.m. to await Cate’s arrival, which came about 14 hours after the birth mother arrived there and called us. Mandy was amazing, even during the back pains and labor. It takes a brave woman to be generous, gracious, and strong when she’s preparing to deliver a baby she believes was meant for someone else.

We were in the room when Cate was born, and saying I’m thankful for that experience is an understatement. People asked if being in there was strange, and I would have thought I’d say it was. But, like the whole adoption process, the birth experience was meant to be – something I can only say because the Creator of the world orchestrated all the details for it to happen, leaving us with the peace that surpasses all my understanding. We saw our 8-pound, 20-inch girl as soon as she entered the world.

Cate had some inconsistent breathing at first, so they put on her the smallest oxygen mask I’ve ever seen. We watched as they cleaned her up and tended to her. She gripped our fingers. Then they took her to the nursery and kept her on oxygen for a short time.

Finally at 4 a.m., the nurse brought our daughter to us. I fed her and then held her for three straight hours. Those were the moments for which I’ve been waiting. And, man, were they worth it.

And you know I’m not even a morning person.

{From “Peace in the Process“}


_____________________

Cate and her great-grandma Anna Faye, who is her middle name sake.

Dear Catherine Anna,

I like to tell your story – about deciding to adopt, meeting your birth mom, being there when you were born, bringing you home, and mothering you since – because it’s my story too. Becoming a mom was a faith journey for me. Revealing more and more details to you has been special the past couple of years.

Reading the story of your actual birth makes the day seem like yesterday. But it was eight years of yesterdays ago.

I was driving the other day to pick you up from the bus, thinking about what I want to tell you this year. You’ve seen the picture of Mandy holding you when you were less than 24 hours old. You know the basic story. And you’ve met her.

Yes, your adoption matters. Mandy chose life for you and then chose us to be your parents. But our story doesn’t stop there. God chooses us too. We’re part of his family forever and ever. {Tweet that.}

Like Daddy and I want you to know you are chosen and loved by us, God wants us to know that too – yes, on our birthdays, but every other day of the year too. He chooses us when we mess up and when we need to apologize. He chooses us when we do well and pass the test. He chooses us because of what Jesus did on the cross and not because of anything we can do here on earth.

It’s message my soul has needed for a long time. And it’s the message I want you to know too, sweet girl.

When I was driving along in the mini van recently, thinking about this and how you’re turning 8, a song came on the radio. I had to Shazam it because the words were perfect.

“Be strong in the Lord and
never give up hope.
You’re gonna do great things
I already know.
God’s got his hand on you so
don’t live life in fear.
Forgive and forget,
but don’t forget why you’re here
Take your time and pray …”

{From “The Words I Would Say” by Sidewalk Prophets}

I know God’s got his hand on you because he has from the beginning – he long before you were created in Mandy’s womb and well before I held you in those early hours of May 7, 2007. In these past years, you’ve taught me more than I imagined a kid could. But, really, we’re a lot alike and God’s used that to grow me and change me. Mothering you has forced me to understand myself better.

I pray you are strong in the Lord forever, never giving up hope. With God, you’ll do amazing things. Cling to the peace that passes all understanding, not the fear that can creep in. And let’s not forget why we’re here.

Cate, I’m so glad you’re here. It’s a joy to be your momma.

I love you, sweet girl.
Momma

_____________________

Other birthday posts :: 1. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 

152 Insights to My Soul
HTML code in sidebar!

An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? “Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family” is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin’, or subscribe to receive “Insights in Your Inbox.”

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • More
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Filed Under: adoption, Cate, ebook, motherhood, Three Word Wednesday

Comments

  1. Jenny Reese Clark says

    May 6, 2015 at 12:43 pm

    This is my first time linking up on your site. I'm looking forward to many more opportunities. The song lyrics you heard are a great reminder to carry on with the Hope of God. Thank you for the encouragement.

    Reply
  2. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 12:44 pm

    Thank you for being here, Jenny! I'm glad you linked up!

    Reply
  3. Dawn says

    May 6, 2015 at 1:11 pm

    What a beautiful testimony of God's faithfulness you share here, Kristin. I have often looked at my kids when that song played on the radio, with tears in my eyes because I cry at everything, and said, " This is what I wish I could say to you so often." And it is a momma's heart that wants to sheild and protect, yet also send and secure them on their journey. I loved that you shared a piece of your celebrating with us here, lifting up your girl and sharing your heart with your book. Thank you.
    Many Blessings!
    Dawn

    Reply
  4. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 1:16 pm

    It's the perfect song to pray over our kids. I'd heard it before, but when I heard it that day recently I took on a different meaning. I'm glad you understand where I'm coming from. 🙂 Thanks for being here and encouraging well with that kind comment. xoxo

    Reply
  5. Tiffany says

    May 6, 2015 at 2:39 pm

    Kristin…This is so beautiful and there are tears as I read these words. What a precious story God has written over Cate's life – yours and Mandy's too. What a gift Cate is and what a joy to read about your journey. The words from that song are the cry of ever mommy's heart, aren't they. So glad we travel this journey of parenting with a loving and gracious God on our side! Blessed by your heart, friend. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  6. Kim Adams Morgan says

    May 6, 2015 at 3:04 pm

    So beautiful how God weaves families together. Happy birthday to you both. Thank you for the link up, Kristin

    Reply
  7. Susan says

    May 6, 2015 at 3:12 pm

    Happy birthday Cate and Kristin! Loved your book on adoption!

    Reply
  8. Katie Reid says

    May 6, 2015 at 3:57 pm

    Happy Birthday to you two lovelies! It does my adoptive mama heart good to read this.:)

    Reply
  9. Alecia Simersky says

    May 6, 2015 at 4:13 pm

    What fun! Two birthdays in one week! I'm looking forward to diving into your book. 🙂

    Reply
  10. Cathy@ThoughtsonBooks says

    May 6, 2015 at 4:37 pm

    Happy birthday to you both! What a beautiful letter to your daughter. Going to Amazon to download your book now! : )

    Reply
  11. Being Woven says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:03 pm

    Happy Birthdays, you two beautiful ladies.

    Reply
  12. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:12 pm

    Thank you!

    Reply
  13. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:12 pm

    Thanks, Cathy! I hope you enjoy it!

    Reply
  14. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:12 pm

    Thanks, Alecia! I hope you are encouraged by our story.

    Reply
  15. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:12 pm

    So glad, Katie! Thanks for the birthday wishes too!

    Reply
  16. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:13 pm

    Thanks, Susan! Would be willing to take a few minutes to leave a review of it at Amazon? I'd really appreciate it!

    Reply
  17. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:13 pm

    So glad you're here, Kim!

    Reply
  18. KristinHillTaylor says

    May 6, 2015 at 8:14 pm

    That song should be an anthem to mothering. So grateful we don't have to do this life, especially parenting, alone! And I'm glad you're here with such sweet encouragement.

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Eleven, already. says:
    May 7, 2018 at 9:09 am

    […] look back on Cate’s life through other birthday posts: One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Baptism. Nine. […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s Connect

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • RSS
  • Twitter

About Me

Telling stories is my therapy and I love sharing them with friends on my porch.

The main characters in my stories are my entrepreneur husband, our eighth-grade girl who never forgets, our have-no-fear fifth-grade boy, and our joy-filled preschool girl. As we live out our stories, we seek God as the author of them all.

Learn more about my story here.

Subscribe for Updates

Recent Posts

  • Let’s go where trust is without borders
  • How to plan a cozy family night
  • Love Your Home Once Again
  • Creating Family Unity
  • Books of 2020

#PorchStories button

Join the Conversation

Join the Conversation

On Instagram

I was overdue for some TLC to my hair, so I got it I was overdue for some TLC to my hair, so I got it trimmed and colored this week. You know it’s time when the stylist takes before and after pictures. My friend @whitneyrscott at @blushsalon always does a good job. 

In addition to the much-needed TLC, I also got bangs. After a few days, I can say I love them. The resident teenager at my home doesn’t like this — and she tells me daily. I tell her I don’t care whether she likes them because I do and it’s my hair. She also didn’t like the tennis shoes I bought a few weeks ago. Again, I do, so who cares. 

Anyway, it’s Friday! So let’s do some #fridayintroductions around here. Tell me three things you’re loving these days. I’ve already mostly told you mine: 

1️⃣ My bangs. I’ve included a picture of the fun waves that Whitney gave me at the salon and the more likely normal styling — by that I mean blow drying and some minor straightening to train the bangs. 
2️⃣ New tennis shoes, which are gray & purple Brooks Launch 7, if you’re curious. My nail color accidentally matches them. 
3️⃣ The teenager in my house. I’ve been giving her grief about her dislike of my fashion choices, but I really love being around her. Honestly, she’s the easiest kid in my house right now. 

✨ Bonus current love: Who can tell me what TV character inspired my hairdo? If you know, then that’s also the TV show I recently binged and am eagerly awaiting new episodes. 

So, what are you loving — even if nobody else in your life does? #momconfessions #reallife #reallifeconfessions #momlife #choosingJOY
It’s been a night of basketball! First, my girl’s middle school game. Now, our favorite college team. Turns out they’re both navy & gold so that’s good for wardrobe choices. 💛 #girlmom #momlife #RacerNation #WeAreRacers #MurrayState
“The Chicken Sisters” by @kjda was a fun, quic “The Chicken Sisters” by @kjda was a fun, quick read this weekend. I added it to my to-read list recently and then saw it as a @bookofthemonth add-on.

I enjoyed the feuding sisters story unfolding while filming a realty show about their family’s feuding chicken restaurants in a small Kansas town. Of course, not everything is quite as it seems, so the reality show helps uncover some reality both sisters were missing.

#amreading #bookstagram #booklover #recommendedreads #thechickensisters #weekending
We needed to get out of the house today — even t We needed to get out of the house today — even though the sun barely peeked through the clouds into the cold air. #countryliving #weekending #choosingJOY #boymom #thirdchild
A week into Peggy’s recovery at our house, and t A week into Peggy’s recovery at our house, and these two have spent a lot of time together. Rachel encourages her and stays close. Peggy plays games and watches movies with Rachel.

Honestly, this #thirdchild of mine was probably my biggest concern with having Peggy recover from open heart surgery here: I didn’t want Rachel to hug too hard. I didn’t know if she’d understand that her Gran-Gran looks fine on the inside but hurts on the inside. She’s been booted from her room, but she’s been sleeping well on her mattress in the back living room. She’s actually probably not going to know what to do when Peggy moves back home.

For now, we’ll let them make memories together. That’s part of caretaking I hadn’t considered. #bettertogether #weekending #choosingJOY
I’ve been in a reading slump. I returned one lib I’ve been in a reading slump. I returned one library book I couldn’t get into and then couldn’t decide what to read next. So I went with this library book — and I’m glad I did.

“The Unhoneymooners” by @christinalauren is a funny romance novel that helped distract my mind from heavy thoughts. It also made me want to go to Maui. The dialogue is delightful, the story of quirky from the get-go, and I definitely found myself rooting for Ethan and Olive.

I also discovered by reading the acknowledgements (possibly my favorite thing about books!) that @christinalauren is the pen name for a writing duo. What fun to write novels with a friend! 

As always, I’m happy to accept your recommendations on what to read next. I may also be pondering what friend with whom to write my next book. 📚 #amreading #fiction #authorlife #bookstagram #bettertogether #romcombooks
My friend Delana called before she brought us dinn My friend Delana called before she brought us dinner yesterday and asked if we liked chocolate pie. Um, yes. Turns out both Peggy and I love chocolate pie. Delana gave us chocolate chips cookies too, you know, just in case we didn’t like pie.

My friends are loving on us so well this week with dinner & dessert, obviously. Yes, the food is good, but the way they saw a need and met it is even more gracious. (I wrote a book about gathering & nourishing your people!) Having someone provide dinner has freed up some mental space I’m able to use for taking care of Peggy and parenting my kids, some of whom have needed a little extra love and guidance this week. 

Peggy is nine days removed from open heart surgery with quadruple bypass and is doing well. She had a good check up with her primary care provider this morning. We’re thankful for our community of people who continue to pray for us, feed us, and provide help, like today’s impromptu preschool pickup when an appointment ran long. (Thanks, @katie_cunningham85 & @tstanger25!)

#bettertogether #momlife #reallife #morethangroceries #choosingJOY
We are all happy to feel some sunshine today! ☀️#thirdchild #catsofinstagram #winter #choosingJOY
Sweet @ashleelyoung brought us delicious dinner to Sweet @ashleelyoung brought us delicious dinner tonight and the dessert became a craft. I’m so thankful for the way our people love us. 💛 #bettertogether #reallife #choosingJOY
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Favorite Places & Projects

Categories

Archives

Copyright © 2021 Kristin Hill Taylor | Design by Traci Michele | Development by MRM

loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.