Thirteen years.

Where were you 13 years ago? I can barely remember where I was – although I know it somehow involved me wearing tube socks, basketball shoes and Umbro shorts (middle school… I won’t go there).

For my friends David and Amy McDurham, 13 years ago marks the beginning of their journey to start a family.

Now, it typically doesn’t take 13 years to start a family – unless that is, God’s plan is for it to take 13 years. You see, when they began their journey so long ago, God already knew who their little girl would be. She would be born in Ethiopia in 2007 and her name would be Eleanor Yanet. Ella. And she would be beautiful. She would be a McDurham.

God’s timing isn’t always our own. His will doesn’t always make sense to us. But his will and timing are always perfect. The McDurham’s story is proof of that.

Today I am leaving with David and Amy on a two-week trek to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for what I already see as an epic love story – one that will surely be filled with emotions across the board. I will chronicle our trip as best I can for you, hoping to do justice to the experience which I am certain will change many lives – including my own.

Please be in prayer for David, Amy and Ella! And check back soon for photos and updates. Only 30 more hours to go…

- Jenny Pope