Family Story: Art Contest Winner!
We love hearing stories from families who have adopted and today’s story is no exception. When a family brings home their child through adoption, there are so many unknowns and questions a family may find themselves asking. What will my child grow up and look like? What type of personality will they have? Will they excel in school or be creative in some way? What talents will God give them? These and so many other questions often find their way into the minds of adoptive parents.
Recently, we heard a sweet story from the Begeman family, who over the years have adopted 5 children from China through America World. Maria shares below how they began to see at an early age that their daughter, Kristin, had a very unique gifting with art and was very creative. Kristen recently won the Department of Defense art contest and her mom shared this incredible story below:
“From the time Kristin was about three, she began demonstrating a passion for anything creative. From coloring to cutting out tiny shapes with scissors, she could focus on a project and produce something unique. Her kindergarten teacher inspired a little art teacher in Kristin, and if you walked through our door, you were sure to be invited to sit down and learn how to draw anything from Santa to a leprechaun.
Over the years, she has played teacher to her siblings, creating craft projects (often with deadlines!). She has even turned her room into a restaurant with a detailed, illustrated menu and found new ways to use things we often put in the trash.
This year her coloring skills were rewarded as she won a worldwide Department of Defense coloring contest. As the grand prize winner, Kristin (now 12) had her coloring page displayed on a grocery bag that went on sale at commissaries (the military equivalent of grocery stores) worldwide this summer.
Not only is Kristin artistic, but she adds zest to our family with her spunky personality, and we can count on her to have a life hack or DIY for any situation. We are so thankful for our little girl who came to us in 2006 from the Guangdong Province of China. We pray that the Lord would continue to refine and develop Kristin’s gifts for His glory”
We love seeing how God has gifted each child with special gifts and talents, unique to how He created each and every one of them. Our staff at America World congratulation you, Kristin, on this exciting accomplishment!
Maybe you’ve been considering adoption and are wondering, “What should I do to take the next step?” Our staff would love to talk with you and help you as you navigate all of the questions you may have. If your family is interested in learning more about adoption or considering adoption from China, please contact our China staff at China@awaa.org or by phone at 800-429-3369 for more information. Families can view our China Adoption page for more information on children who are currently available and waiting for families.
You may also PRE-APPLY FOR FREE to determine your eligibility or fill out our full APPLICATION to begin your adoption process with America World.