Below is another adoption story from our congregation. Here is my interview with the Mark and Heather Wien’s.


This is your second adoption. Can you briefly describe the first and then tell us what led you to consider it again?


Our first adoption was also from Korea. It took a total of two years from start to finish, and when it was over we didn’t really think we would adopt again because it took so long, and it was so trying. But after having Addison for a year we both felt we should adopt again; partially because we wanted Addison to have a sister she could grow up with and also because we just felt led to do it.

How long have you been in the adoption process?

We have been in this process now for 16 months.

How has this process changed your relationship with each other?

I don’t know that it’s changed our relationship, but I personally love watching my husband dote on his little girl. There is something very special about a father/daughter relationship and I find it very endearing. I love seeing this side of my husband!

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced/facing?

The wait. Its super long and always filled with many, many unforeseen delays. For example, we were told we’d wait 6-8 months until we could travel to get Avery, and yet we will end up waiting 16 months. The delays were completely unnecessary and based on political decisions that negatively impacted our adoption. It was so demoralizing and frustrating. (It was like this with our first adoption too.)

What is God showing you through all this?

Don’t doubt His love because you don’t understand His sovereignty.

What is the current status of your adoption?


We travel to Korea September 4!! We get Avery on September 7!! We’re so excited this day has finally come!

How has this process impacted your view of the Gospel?


Although we’re completely different from God, born in sin, living in sin, and nothing like Him – He completely lavishes His love on us regardless. His love for us is not based on how similar we are to Him.


What can you tell us about the child you are adopting?


She turns two while we are in Korea. She is beautiful…of course! She has been living in the same foster home since her placement at one month, so she’s very attached to them. She is developmentally on target, but still only says three words in Korean, so she is delayed in her speech.

What most excites you about adopting?

The gift of having a daughter! Seeing her for the first time! Actually holding her in my arms after looking at her pictures for 16 months! It’s beyond explanation really.

What most scares you about adopting?

Our biggest concern is her ability to adapt and bond with us. She is a lot older than Addison was at the time of her adoption and we worry about her ability to adjust to a new family, new language, new time zone, new foods, and different (and strange) looking people!

What would you tell other families considering adoption?

It will be hard. There is no easy adoption…domestic, foster care, international… None. Your heart will ache and you’ll cry. There will be times you just want to quit in frustration and you wonder if it’s really worth it, but it is. It is MORE than worth it. So, if God has laid adoption on your heart, just walk through the door, and persevere to the end. God is good.

How can Metro East pray for you over the next few months?


Pray for us. Pray our trip goes smoothly and we make all our flights. It’s 20 hours of travel so we don’t’ want delays. Pray for Avery. Pray she attaches and bonds with us quickly. Pray she sleeps. Pray we all transition smoothly. Maybe some meals too!? After traveling 20 hours with a two year old who doesn’t know you or speak your language, we will be super-sleep deprived and exhausted. Sleep was a big issue last time, so I anticipate it being rough again.

How can we keep up with you through this process?

I’ve had a blog for a number of years and I’ll keep that updated throughout and after our trip. Its about2bmore.blogspot.com. You’re welcome to follow our journey there!

Thanks Mark and Heather, we look forward to meeting Avery! We will be praying for you throughout this journey!

GB