40 to 40 (Gratitude 2)

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I am grateful that while I don't have a family per say, I have had families in my life. The one that comes to mind today is the Fredericks. I spent several years on staff with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. During my time in Bloomington, IN, I had the opportunity to live with the Fredericks.

Jerry had said something about me moving in jokingly. But I was having a hard time making ends meet and was in a rough roommate situation. I got up the nerve to ask Jerry and Dana if they would consider it. We all agreed to try it out for 6 months.

I had a room down the basement and paid very minimally on a few things. In return, I helped out with the kids. When I first moved in, Jerry and Dana had Hannah and Elizabeth.

Hannah in 1996

Elizabeth in 1996

Both girls were adopted as infants. Later, they also adopted Jonathon. He was a little wild man, but I loved his spirit.

Jonathan in 1996

I loved the arrangement because it made me feel like part of a family. I was in some ways, the big sister. I did art projects with Hannah and snuggled with Elizabeth and read and read and read. With Jonathan everything was one big game.

I moved in 1996. Jerry and Dana later found out that Dana was pregnant. She gave birth to a little girl named Sarah. She was a miracle for them. I just wish I had the opportunity to know her like I did the other three!

Our six month trial turned into 3 very blessed years in my life.