Cookout Benefit Results: A month later!

We mentioned this on the family blog but we have traveled a LOT this summer. We have been through and to 9 states since the beginning of June. This has been detrimental to having an up-to-date adoption blog. It has NOT, however, been a hindrance to moving forward with the adoption process. We will provide an update on the process VERY soon. That is a promise; but first, some old business...

On July 12, some friends of ours in Shreveport hosted a Benefit Cookout/Pool Party/Silent Auction. This event was truly a blessing to our family. First, it was just REALLY fun. It was laid back and everyone was having a great time eating hot dogs and swimming (not at the same time)! Second, we were reminded (as we have been throughout this process) of the generosity of others. So many people donated items for the silent auction, bought T-shirts, and came out for the event. Also, it provided us a venue to talk to people about our adoption--one of the reasons that we don't have more pictures from that night is because we were talking to everyone and answering questions about little Gideon. Finally, we added $1,986 to the "Empty Chair" fund. We were and are excited. Thanks to everyone who helped to make this night meaningful for our family! Here are some pics:

Mary strung up some of our t-shirts and postcards with verses from Scripture that speak about adoption...such as......
The Welcome Wagon!Mary and Kristen Carothers

In the clubhouse where the silent auction items were displayed.