I've had tons of questions about when are we going to China!!! Well, that is a great question! But, here's what we know:
-our I-797 Notice of Action (this is our US visa approval to bring Judah to the US) was forwarded to the US Consulate in China last week
-the US Consulate in China gives our paperwork (Judah's visa application) one, final stamp of approval -- then they forward the papers on to the CCAA (China Center of Adoption Affairs)
-once the CCAA receives our paperwork from the Consulate, they send our travel approval to our agency
-with travel approval in-hand, our agency begins coordinating our travels to/in China -- we will leave for China 2-4 wks after travel approval
-the above process should only require a few weeks!!
Our silent auction is going well!! You can scroll-down, or, click here to check it out!! Bidding ends tomorrow night at midnight!
Showing posts with label The Wait. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Wait. Show all posts
10.11.2010
9.22.2010
celebrating judah!
Judah's 1st birthday is Oct 2! Oh, how we hate to miss this very special milestone! He should receive the care package (pictured above) by the end of the week!! He will see our faces for the very first time ever!!The package is already in China, and you can see that the letter we sent to him has already been translated into Chinese. A nanny will read it to him very soon. It makes my heart ache to imagine the confusion that his little mind may experience when he sees our photos, and hears our letter to him...that we are his family, and we're coming to get him.
We've also ordered a birthday cake, that will be delivered to the orphanage, so the staff and children can celebrate his special day with him! Of course, our family will have a party for him, too -- on this side of the globe!
8.10.2010
us is 'those'!
Our family got to mingle with those families--at least for today! (read previous post to know what in the world I'm talking about)
We received our pre-approval for Judah's adoption today...day 13 of waiting! One day earlier than the estimated time-frame of 2-4weeks!! Very exciting! And, very humbling (since I was such a whiner last night).
We still have a long road of paper work & approvals ahead before we can bring Judah home. We still have to wait for our official referral approval and then travel approval...looking at about 4-5 months-total. Crazy. I know. Welcome to the world of Hague adoptions. We'd love to go get him before the end of the year, but that most likely, will take a miracle.
Changing subjects...
Micah had his 2-year check-up today. We are very excited to report that he's now in the 95th percentile for height, and off the charts in verbal skills. Our Dr just kind of sat in awe, watching and listening to Micah today -- he, of all people, understands how far our sweet boy has come!
Much to be thankful for!!
We received our pre-approval for Judah's adoption today...day 13 of waiting! One day earlier than the estimated time-frame of 2-4weeks!! Very exciting! And, very humbling (since I was such a whiner last night).
We still have a long road of paper work & approvals ahead before we can bring Judah home. We still have to wait for our official referral approval and then travel approval...looking at about 4-5 months-total. Crazy. I know. Welcome to the world of Hague adoptions. We'd love to go get him before the end of the year, but that most likely, will take a miracle.
Changing subjects...
Micah had his 2-year check-up today. We are very excited to report that he's now in the 95th percentile for height, and off the charts in verbal skills. Our Dr just kind of sat in awe, watching and listening to Micah today -- he, of all people, understands how far our sweet boy has come!
Much to be thankful for!!
8.09.2010
sometimes...
...I want to be one of those families.
You know, that family who's adoption paperwork always arrives earlier than expected. That family who finds a mystery check in the mail. Or a pile of cash on their doorstep.
I could go on and on...
I don't always think about being one of those families. Just sometimes.
We sent our letter of intent (requesting to move ahead with Judah's adoption) on July 28th. The estimated time-frame to receive China's response is 2-4 weeks. And we've been waiting 12 days. Prideful 'ol-arrogant-me just knew we'd hear something sooner. I don't know why I do this to myself! Why can't I just mind the typical time-frames, and chill??!!
Well, I know why -- because I stalk the date logs of hundreds of families on chat groups and blogs. And, some families (those families) have received their pre-approval in less than 2 weeks.
Guess it's not really that big of a deal. All the paper work will fall into place in God's perfect timing, according to His perfect plan. I trust that, and I really am at peace with that most-comforting truth! Maybe the legalistic side of me (which is obvioulsy dying a slow-death) thinks that being one of those families would suggest we've earned an extra-measure of God's favor. Kind of like my drooling-Basset Hound, who always demands extra attention when I don't have time. Or that pesky co-worker (back in my medical technologist-days), who always needed affirmation and approval when I wasn't in the mood.
But, God isn't like that.
He doesn't tease me with the notion that I could experience His love.
He never withholds it, and I don't have to earn it.
He simply loves me.
And He loves me completely, and fully.
So whether our pre-approval arrives on day 13, or day 33, I can trust the out-come to be perfect. And we may never be one of those families...but, we're His family. And for that we can celebrate on day 12, day 13, and day 33!
For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
the LORD bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
Ps 84:11
You know, that family who's adoption paperwork always arrives earlier than expected. That family who finds a mystery check in the mail. Or a pile of cash on their doorstep.
I could go on and on...
I don't always think about being one of those families. Just sometimes.
We sent our letter of intent (requesting to move ahead with Judah's adoption) on July 28th. The estimated time-frame to receive China's response is 2-4 weeks. And we've been waiting 12 days. Prideful 'ol-arrogant-me just knew we'd hear something sooner. I don't know why I do this to myself! Why can't I just mind the typical time-frames, and chill??!!
Well, I know why -- because I stalk the date logs of hundreds of families on chat groups and blogs. And, some families (those families) have received their pre-approval in less than 2 weeks.
Guess it's not really that big of a deal. All the paper work will fall into place in God's perfect timing, according to His perfect plan. I trust that, and I really am at peace with that most-comforting truth! Maybe the legalistic side of me (which is obvioulsy dying a slow-death) thinks that being one of those families would suggest we've earned an extra-measure of God's favor. Kind of like my drooling-Basset Hound, who always demands extra attention when I don't have time. Or that pesky co-worker (back in my medical technologist-days), who always needed affirmation and approval when I wasn't in the mood.
But, God isn't like that.
He doesn't tease me with the notion that I could experience His love.
He never withholds it, and I don't have to earn it.
He simply loves me.
And He loves me completely, and fully.
So whether our pre-approval arrives on day 13, or day 33, I can trust the out-come to be perfect. And we may never be one of those families...but, we're His family. And for that we can celebrate on day 12, day 13, and day 33!
For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
the LORD bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
Ps 84:11
4.05.2010
Grrrrrrrrr!
Yes. That's a growl! And I praise God for the restraint of His Holy Spirit, which has over-come my desire to bite!
The primary delay with our home study has been our AL background check. AL DHR transitioned to a private agency to handle the processing of finger prints...and, of course we were caught in the transition. Although, that's not totally what has caused our delay. A particular form that accompanied our inked-fingerprints was out-dated. Here's where the grrrrr comes in. This form was provided to us by our home study agency. Nonetheless, I got a letter on Fri stating we submitted an incorrect form...6 weeks after we submitted our prints. Grrrr, again.
I contacted both the background-check agency and AL DHR and expressed my frustration. But I did so very graciously -- it's not their fault we were given an old form. So, now I've got to track-down the police officer who did our ink prints and get him to sign the correct form. Good grief. Not to mention, my form was the only one returned thus far...Vince's is still floating around USPS.
The good news is, once we submit the correct form, the turn-around time is about a week. Whoot!
And some more good news is that God has reminded me of a lesson I obviously didn't learn very well during Micah's adoption.
The primary delay with our home study has been our AL background check. AL DHR transitioned to a private agency to handle the processing of finger prints...and, of course we were caught in the transition. Although, that's not totally what has caused our delay. A particular form that accompanied our inked-fingerprints was out-dated. Here's where the grrrrr comes in. This form was provided to us by our home study agency. Nonetheless, I got a letter on Fri stating we submitted an incorrect form...6 weeks after we submitted our prints. Grrrr, again.
I contacted both the background-check agency and AL DHR and expressed my frustration. But I did so very graciously -- it's not their fault we were given an old form. So, now I've got to track-down the police officer who did our ink prints and get him to sign the correct form. Good grief. Not to mention, my form was the only one returned thus far...Vince's is still floating around USPS.
The good news is, once we submit the correct form, the turn-around time is about a week. Whoot!
And some more good news is that God has reminded me of a lesson I obviously didn't learn very well during Micah's adoption.
Patience.
I'm always chomping at the bit to get things done, acting as of this process is all about me, me, ME -- but in reality, this process is about our sweet Judah. Well, actually it's really about God!! So if we have to endure fingerprint-fiascoes (or whatever else) to keep from jumping ahead of God, so be it!
...but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31
...but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31
12.16.2009
Judah??
Judah - Let Yah (Yahweh) Be Praised.
So you've probably picked-up on the *Baby Judah* thing by now. Some of you may have even wondered if there is a little person already named Judah that we've been matched with--but the answer is no.
With our first Ethiopian adoption Micah was our *Baby Martin*, so I felt our next little person needs their own identity...so, Baby Judah it is.
The name Judah may stick permanently, or, maybe not. Guess we'll wait to make that decision when we see his/her sweet little face.
So you've probably picked-up on the *Baby Judah* thing by now. Some of you may have even wondered if there is a little person already named Judah that we've been matched with--but the answer is no.
With our first Ethiopian adoption Micah was our *Baby Martin*, so I felt our next little person needs their own identity...so, Baby Judah it is.
The name Judah may stick permanently, or, maybe not. Guess we'll wait to make that decision when we see his/her sweet little face.
11.12.2009
surprising difficulties of international adoption, #2
Court (this one may be Ethiopia-specific):
When you finally submit your dossier (application and documentation) to the country you wish to adopt from, you become increasingly obsessed with receiving a referral (ie- matched with a child/ren). It's practically all you can think about -- kind of like a bride anticipating her wedding day. (And we've all known an obnoxious bride, or two.) And to intensify matters, family and friends are constantly asking, "any news yet?" So, really, there are very few moments when you're not actively anticipating the call from your agency.
You begin to tell yourself (and even begin to tell God): if we could just get our referral I'll be able to handle anything that follows. Ohhhh, waiting for our referral is the hard part...once I finally see that face, my referral-day euphoria will enable me to patiently wait for months before I hold him/her.
(Hang on -- I need to laugh out loud for a moment before I continue -- hahahahahahahahahaha -- OK, I'm composed now)
Referral-day euphoria? Unfortunately, it's not long-lived. You kick into high-gear preparing for you child. All the while, realizing -yes- this is really happening. Kind of like the first week back from your honeymoon: your sweet hubby really does expect dinner on the table every night.
Day-dreamin' is over.
Although you're more than happy to have dinner ready by 5pm every night, it's still a good dose of reality! And same goes for adoption. There is an ebb-and-flow of this is really happening!
And then in the midst of frantically getting ready for your trip and your child, another reality sets in: court. What?? You mean our adoption is not down-hill from here...didn't accepting our child's referral finalize the adoption?? uh...NO! You've thought little about court before the referral; it wasn't a major source of anxiety. At least not until now. Isn't funny how we always default to: yeah, x-y-z may have been a nightmare for that family, but it won't be for us. No worries.
Well, you're assigned a court date, and as that day approaches, you do begin to fret!!
Oh no, maybe we will be that family with the nightmare story.
Referral-day euphoria? What's that?
OK, I realize I'm sounding really dramatic at this point, but this was completely what I experienced. Anticipating court was terrifying for me. There were so many variables that had to be in place. I just couldn't imagine how they could all come together like they needed to.
And do you know what? They didn't.
Let me deflate the drama. Our adoption was finally granted on our 4th court appearance (actually, our agency's 4th appearance, with our POA). It was one of the most frightening experiences of my life. Yes, we had signed our acceptance letter -- but the Ethiopian judge had the final decision. There was a chance our adoption request could have been denied. Albeit a slim one, but still... Ethiopian courts don't arbitrarily grant or deny adoptions -- they make their decision based on the facts. Is there sufficient evident to prove this child/ren is an orphan? And, in our case, it took several weeks to gather sufficient evidence.
In hind-sight, we are thankful for how Micah's story unfolded. The court delays and evidence gathered will help Micah process his story. And, oh how did God stretch, deepen our faith. We would not trade the journey through court with our Heavenly Father for any other senario. But needless to say, the whole court thing was surprisingly difficult.
And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.
He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’
For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.”’
And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says.
And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
Luke 18:1-8
When you finally submit your dossier (application and documentation) to the country you wish to adopt from, you become increasingly obsessed with receiving a referral (ie- matched with a child/ren). It's practically all you can think about -- kind of like a bride anticipating her wedding day. (And we've all known an obnoxious bride, or two.) And to intensify matters, family and friends are constantly asking, "any news yet?" So, really, there are very few moments when you're not actively anticipating the call from your agency.
You begin to tell yourself (and even begin to tell God): if we could just get our referral I'll be able to handle anything that follows. Ohhhh, waiting for our referral is the hard part...once I finally see that face, my referral-day euphoria will enable me to patiently wait for months before I hold him/her.
(Hang on -- I need to laugh out loud for a moment before I continue -- hahahahahahahahahaha -- OK, I'm composed now)
Referral-day euphoria? Unfortunately, it's not long-lived. You kick into high-gear preparing for you child. All the while, realizing -yes- this is really happening. Kind of like the first week back from your honeymoon: your sweet hubby really does expect dinner on the table every night.
Day-dreamin' is over.
Although you're more than happy to have dinner ready by 5pm every night, it's still a good dose of reality! And same goes for adoption. There is an ebb-and-flow of this is really happening!
And then in the midst of frantically getting ready for your trip and your child, another reality sets in: court. What?? You mean our adoption is not down-hill from here...didn't accepting our child's referral finalize the adoption?? uh...NO! You've thought little about court before the referral; it wasn't a major source of anxiety. At least not until now. Isn't funny how we always default to: yeah, x-y-z may have been a nightmare for that family, but it won't be for us. No worries.
Well, you're assigned a court date, and as that day approaches, you do begin to fret!!
Oh no, maybe we will be that family with the nightmare story.
Referral-day euphoria? What's that?
OK, I realize I'm sounding really dramatic at this point, but this was completely what I experienced. Anticipating court was terrifying for me. There were so many variables that had to be in place. I just couldn't imagine how they could all come together like they needed to.
And do you know what? They didn't.
Let me deflate the drama. Our adoption was finally granted on our 4th court appearance (actually, our agency's 4th appearance, with our POA). It was one of the most frightening experiences of my life. Yes, we had signed our acceptance letter -- but the Ethiopian judge had the final decision. There was a chance our adoption request could have been denied. Albeit a slim one, but still... Ethiopian courts don't arbitrarily grant or deny adoptions -- they make their decision based on the facts. Is there sufficient evident to prove this child/ren is an orphan? And, in our case, it took several weeks to gather sufficient evidence.
In hind-sight, we are thankful for how Micah's story unfolded. The court delays and evidence gathered will help Micah process his story. And, oh how did God stretch, deepen our faith. We would not trade the journey through court with our Heavenly Father for any other senario. But needless to say, the whole court thing was surprisingly difficult.
And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.
He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’
For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.”’
And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says.
And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
Luke 18:1-8
3.16.2009
Peumonia Rising
Two new studies released Tuesday show that about one and a half million people across the globe die annually of pneumonia, half of them children under the age of five, the American Free Press reported.
Jean Marie Okwo-Bel of the World Health Organization said pneumonia is a leading killer disease in the world among children under the age of five—resulting in more deaths than AIDS, measles and malaria combined.
http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1649154/pneumonia_deaths_approaching_2_million_annually/
Very sadly, I know two of the children who contributed to these statistics. It just doesn't make sense!! Drugs exist to treat these children...even vaccines....
One week from today we will meet our boy. He's been so healthy & strong over these past several months, but please continue to pray for his health!! He's a fighter, but we don't take that for granted!!!
Jean Marie Okwo-Bel of the World Health Organization said pneumonia is a leading killer disease in the world among children under the age of five—resulting in more deaths than AIDS, measles and malaria combined.
http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1649154/pneumonia_deaths_approaching_2_million_annually/
Very sadly, I know two of the children who contributed to these statistics. It just doesn't make sense!! Drugs exist to treat these children...even vaccines....
One week from today we will meet our boy. He's been so healthy & strong over these past several months, but please continue to pray for his health!! He's a fighter, but we don't take that for granted!!!
3.13.2009
Yoseph John Martin
Yup- that's our son's legal name. We received a copy of his Ethiopian birth certificate today!! It was surreal seeing our names listed as 'mother' and 'father' -- the certificate lists our names in both English and Amharic. What a joy!
In Ethiopia, a son has a given first name, but then takes his father's first name as his middle name. (Yes, Vince is John Vincent) -- hence, Yoseph John Martin. We actually contemplated naming Micah 'Micah John' -- but, we decided too many names.
We'll have to re-adopt Micah once he's home. This is legally necessary because we were not present for the adoption proceedings in Ethiopia (AWAA has our power-of-attorney). Once he is re-adopted, he will receive an Alabama birth certificate, and, his final legal name:
Micah Yoseph Martin!!
In Ethiopia, a son has a given first name, but then takes his father's first name as his middle name. (Yes, Vince is John Vincent) -- hence, Yoseph John Martin. We actually contemplated naming Micah 'Micah John' -- but, we decided too many names.
We'll have to re-adopt Micah once he's home. This is legally necessary because we were not present for the adoption proceedings in Ethiopia (AWAA has our power-of-attorney). Once he is re-adopted, he will receive an Alabama birth certificate, and, his final legal name:
Micah Yoseph Martin!!
3.12.2009
It's coming together...
God is good!!
Tickets are booked!!
We head to DC on the 19th, and then to Ethiopia on the 20th!!! We plan leave Ethiopia on the 27th, and arrive in Birmingham on the 28th.
Did you notice 'plan' was italicized???
Here's why: USCIS has agreed to expedite our paper work to the consulate, but some families have had a hiccup with the visa office. If we encounter the same problem, we could be delayed a week or so for our return home. We're not too panicked though-- most countries require that adoptive families remain in-country for 2-6 weeks anyway...so if we make it home in 8-16 days, AWESOME!! (But 8 days would be most excellent -- Vince needs to get back to work)
I feel like I have so much to do, yet feel very calm at the same time (maybe that's because I've been packing since January!!).
Stephanie Hall, who is in Ethiopia right now, called me yesterday morning. I actually hung-up on her three times because I couldn't understand the woman announcing her call (she sounded Hispanic, but she was actually Ethiopian -- duh). The Halls will possibly be delayed returning home due to the visa issue I explained above....PLEASE PRAY FOR THEM TO COME HOME SOON! I know they are having a wonderful time, but I know they need to come home. Her call was brief, but she did tell me how sweet our Micah is!!
Tickets are booked!!
We head to DC on the 19th, and then to Ethiopia on the 20th!!! We plan leave Ethiopia on the 27th, and arrive in Birmingham on the 28th.
Did you notice 'plan' was italicized???
Here's why: USCIS has agreed to expedite our paper work to the consulate, but some families have had a hiccup with the visa office. If we encounter the same problem, we could be delayed a week or so for our return home. We're not too panicked though-- most countries require that adoptive families remain in-country for 2-6 weeks anyway...so if we make it home in 8-16 days, AWESOME!! (But 8 days would be most excellent -- Vince needs to get back to work)
I feel like I have so much to do, yet feel very calm at the same time (maybe that's because I've been packing since January!!).
Stephanie Hall, who is in Ethiopia right now, called me yesterday morning. I actually hung-up on her three times because I couldn't understand the woman announcing her call (she sounded Hispanic, but she was actually Ethiopian -- duh). The Halls will possibly be delayed returning home due to the visa issue I explained above....PLEASE PRAY FOR THEM TO COME HOME SOON! I know they are having a wonderful time, but I know they need to come home. Her call was brief, but she did tell me how sweet our Micah is!!
We’ll try to update from ET by blog, facebook, twitter & email as internet is available!
Prayer Requests:
▪for God to be honored because of His loving-kindness & faithfulness
Safe travel/safe food; no missing luggage
▪that our bonding with Micah (and him with us) would be natural & immediate
▪as first-time parents: that we’ll know what to do!!!
▪USCIS/consulate paper work
▪And…what ever else the Holy Spirit brings to your mind!!!
Prayer Requests:
▪for God to be honored because of His loving-kindness & faithfulness
Safe travel/safe food; no missing luggage
▪that our bonding with Micah (and him with us) would be natural & immediate
▪as first-time parents: that we’ll know what to do!!!
▪USCIS/consulate paper work
▪And…what ever else the Holy Spirit brings to your mind!!!
Check back -- I'll post again before we leave!!
3.10.2009
What's it like to wait??
ALWAYS waiting and checking for that phone call or email that says...Your paper work is complete!! Book those flights!!...
Well, I guess on a positive note, they do sleep through the night...
Sorry, too weird for me to drive around for weeks on end with an empty car seat...
Amazing...I never knew packing could be a 'life-style'...
3.09.2009
Pushing forward
We received word that DHR will be forwarding our home study update to USCIS early this week --yay!!!
I also received another email response from USCIS, stating that I can send my home study addendum straight to them. ??? You better believe that's what I am going to do today...my paper work may even beat DHR's paper work to their office.
Stay tuned...
I also received another email response from USCIS, stating that I can send my home study addendum straight to them. ??? You better believe that's what I am going to do today...my paper work may even beat DHR's paper work to their office.
Stay tuned...
3.04.2009
Still No Firm Travel Dates
Sorry to report, we still do not have travel dates -- and, we really have no idea what to expect. We had tickets on hold to leave 3/13, but we had to let them go. We didn't feel confident that our paper work would be ready by then -- and, we didn't want to be tied to one airline carrier -- so we forfeited the purchase. Now we have tickets on hold for 3/20...
Our paper work is slowly progressing. I was able to request that our immigration file be transferred from Kansas City to the Atlanta office (the office that services AL)...one obstacle down!! And, I was able to established correspondence regarding our case with an agent in Atlanta...another plus!!
Now we continue to wait for AL-DHR to forward our home study addendum to Atlanta. We also have been in touch with an influential person here in AL who is helping us with AL-DHR. (Actually, this individual and I were seated at the same table last Saturday during a women's prayer brunch at our church -- when she introduced herself I just wept! That was no coincidence...that was God's sovereignty!!!)
I must say, this has been the most difficult part of our journey thus far (if you can believe that)! Now that Micah is legally ours, it is heart-crushing to be delayed to go get him!!
We are so thankful for God's continued faithfulness...even to the very end of this journey!!
Our paper work is slowly progressing. I was able to request that our immigration file be transferred from Kansas City to the Atlanta office (the office that services AL)...one obstacle down!! And, I was able to established correspondence regarding our case with an agent in Atlanta...another plus!!
Now we continue to wait for AL-DHR to forward our home study addendum to Atlanta. We also have been in touch with an influential person here in AL who is helping us with AL-DHR. (Actually, this individual and I were seated at the same table last Saturday during a women's prayer brunch at our church -- when she introduced herself I just wept! That was no coincidence...that was God's sovereignty!!!)
I must say, this has been the most difficult part of our journey thus far (if you can believe that)! Now that Micah is legally ours, it is heart-crushing to be delayed to go get him!!
We are so thankful for God's continued faithfulness...even to the very end of this journey!!
2.26.2009
What's Next...
We have tentative travel dates to pick-up Micah for 3/13-3/21, but...
Since we moved to a different state during our adoption, we continue to jump though hoops. Let me explain:
-because we changed states and jobs, we had to update our home study reflecting these changes (verifying that we still meet the requirements for our adoption -- meet requirements to be parents???...oh, I better not go there; too much to do right now)
-our home study update must be submitted to USCIS, so they are aware of our changes
-once USCIS receives our updated home study, they will notify the visa office, who will then notify the consulate in Ethiopia...once all these offices are in 'the loop', we're good to go
-BUT...our home study is currently at AL's DHR...and, we're not sure how long they'll keep it...ugh
Confused?? Not me!!! BTDT too many times!! And, I am more than willing to assist each of these agencies with their part of the process (uh oh, this could get, well, let's just say 'sticky'...Lord, give me grace).
Anyway, thus far we've not had to purchase our airline tickets. We've been able to keep them on hold through our travel agent, but now that we're so close to travel, we may have to go ahead and purchase them anyway. We do receive a reduced reschedule fee because we're adopting, but, nonetheless hopefully we will not have to reschedule too many times.
Pray with us for favor with g'ment officials to expedite our case so MICAH CAN COME HOME!
Since we moved to a different state during our adoption, we continue to jump though hoops. Let me explain:
-because we changed states and jobs, we had to update our home study reflecting these changes (verifying that we still meet the requirements for our adoption -- meet requirements to be parents???...oh, I better not go there; too much to do right now)
-our home study update must be submitted to USCIS, so they are aware of our changes
-once USCIS receives our updated home study, they will notify the visa office, who will then notify the consulate in Ethiopia...once all these offices are in 'the loop', we're good to go
-BUT...our home study is currently at AL's DHR...and, we're not sure how long they'll keep it...ugh
Confused?? Not me!!! BTDT too many times!! And, I am more than willing to assist each of these agencies with their part of the process (uh oh, this could get, well, let's just say 'sticky'...Lord, give me grace).
Anyway, thus far we've not had to purchase our airline tickets. We've been able to keep them on hold through our travel agent, but now that we're so close to travel, we may have to go ahead and purchase them anyway. We do receive a reduced reschedule fee because we're adopting, but, nonetheless hopefully we will not have to reschedule too many times.
Pray with us for favor with g'ment officials to expedite our case so MICAH CAN COME HOME!
2.23.2009
Thank You!
And thank you again, and again, and again...
For all your prayers, encouragements, and celebration as we draw nearer to bringing Micah home!
Micah is a Hebrew name, meaning "Who is like Yhwh?", or,
"Who is like God?"
Micah was a prophet in the Old Testament who loved God and spoke out against social injustice. Though Micah was grieved over the indifference of God's people, he ultimately found comfort in God's covenant, which promises to lead His people to future glory...not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of who God is and what He does!
For all your prayers, encouragements, and celebration as we draw nearer to bringing Micah home!
Micah is a Hebrew name, meaning "Who is like Yhwh?", or,
"Who is like God?"
Micah was a prophet in the Old Testament who loved God and spoke out against social injustice. Though Micah was grieved over the indifference of God's people, he ultimately found comfort in God's covenant, which promises to lead His people to future glory...not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of who God is and what He does!
He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the LORD require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
and what does the LORD require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8
Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity
and passing over transgression
for the remnant of his inheritance?
He does not retain his anger forever,
because he delights in steadfast love.
and passing over transgression
for the remnant of his inheritance?
He does not retain his anger forever,
because he delights in steadfast love.
Micah 7:18-19
To our Micah: may you always have a genuine concern for the oppressed, and, always delight in your Heavenly Father's love and purpose for your life!
2.19.2009
Ahhhhhhh...torture!!!!
The Blackwell's returned safely home with their precious Rae this week!!! Let me just tell you-- she is a doll!! And, oh, what a surprise did they have for us!!!
PICTURES!!!
Lots-n-lots of pictures of our boy!!!
We haven't seen an recent picture of him in almost a month....ohhhh, he is getting so big...and he's soooo handsome!!! And, quite serious looking...my sweet little contemplative boy! Oh, what fun we will have as we discover & reason together God's creation and purpose for life!!!!
Oh, to see my dear friend playing with our son...sugar for my mommy heart!
Thank you, Kelly!!!
PICTURES!!!
Lots-n-lots of pictures of our boy!!!
We haven't seen an recent picture of him in almost a month....ohhhh, he is getting so big...and he's soooo handsome!!! And, quite serious looking...my sweet little contemplative boy! Oh, what fun we will have as we discover & reason together God's creation and purpose for life!!!!
Oh, to see my dear friend playing with our son...sugar for my mommy heart!
Thank you, Kelly!!!
2.18.2009
So, how are we doing...no, REALLY doing???
Honestly, we're doing good.
Yes, we're extemely frustrated & extemely disappointed, but, we're not a wreck.
It's kind of like this:
You know how in Psalm 23 the psalmist talks about walking "through the valley of the shadow of death"? Well, our journey is more like walking through the valley of the shadow of despair. We are not in despair, but it is a shadow looming over us. No, I don't think despair will have it's way with us, but it is a reality that would like to have it's way with us. God is allowing us to see it from afar, all the while, His mighty arm keeping it at bay.
This is not a pity-party, but below are a few realities of the final stages of an adoption. Yes, this is what we signed-up for. Here's quote I read on someone's blog: Adoption is not about families getting children, but about children getting families. Very true, but very messy.
- half-packed suitcases, here and there...baby clothes that will soon be too small
- formula in the kitchen with an expiration of 5/09...secret thought: oh, surely I will not have to throw this away!
- commitments that we hesitate to make, because we do not know what the next several weeks will look like...continual limbo
- empty picture frames in Vince's office...he can't show-off his boy until the adoption is finalized
- lots & lots of questions from dear friends & family, but few answers for them
- our son approaching 7 months...what precious moments are we missing...first words? crawling?
-a lot of wrestling with 'why?'
Again, we are not in despair. We are not defeated. We are not hopeless. But, we are human -- and we thankful that God is mindful of this...For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust (Ps 103:14).
We know that, though this part seems never-ending, never-ending is not true. This is but a page in the book of our lives...and it will turn soon enough.
Yes, we're extemely frustrated & extemely disappointed, but, we're not a wreck.
It's kind of like this:
You know how in Psalm 23 the psalmist talks about walking "through the valley of the shadow of death"? Well, our journey is more like walking through the valley of the shadow of despair. We are not in despair, but it is a shadow looming over us. No, I don't think despair will have it's way with us, but it is a reality that would like to have it's way with us. God is allowing us to see it from afar, all the while, His mighty arm keeping it at bay.
This is not a pity-party, but below are a few realities of the final stages of an adoption. Yes, this is what we signed-up for. Here's quote I read on someone's blog: Adoption is not about families getting children, but about children getting families. Very true, but very messy.
- half-packed suitcases, here and there...baby clothes that will soon be too small
- formula in the kitchen with an expiration of 5/09...secret thought: oh, surely I will not have to throw this away!
- commitments that we hesitate to make, because we do not know what the next several weeks will look like...continual limbo
- empty picture frames in Vince's office...he can't show-off his boy until the adoption is finalized
- lots & lots of questions from dear friends & family, but few answers for them
- our son approaching 7 months...what precious moments are we missing...first words? crawling?
-a lot of wrestling with 'why?'
Again, we are not in despair. We are not defeated. We are not hopeless. But, we are human -- and we thankful that God is mindful of this...For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust (Ps 103:14).
We know that, though this part seems never-ending, never-ending is not true. This is but a page in the book of our lives...and it will turn soon enough.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff,they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Hey...and, thanks for asking! :)
2.11.2009
So, how about a re-cap??
07/05- run into a dozen families in the Hong Kong airport, returning to the states with their Chinese baby girls…the seed is planted
06/06- begin to research adoption agencies
08/06- attend an America World Adoption Association seminar in Springfield, MO
11/06- apply/accepted into AWAA’s China adoption program
01/07- begin our home study for our China adoption
04/07- hand-deliver our completed home study to USCIS for immigration approval; get finger-printed (KC, MO)
06/07- receive approval letter from USCIS to adopt from China
07/07- send dossier to China; receive ‘log in date’ (LID)
10/07- China approves waiting families to pursue concurrent adoptions because of increasing wait
11/07- apply/accepted with AWAA to adopt concurrently
12/07- apply/accepted with AWAA to adopt from Ethiopia
01/08- update home study for our Ethiopia application
02/08- request & receive update with USCIS to adopt from Ethiopia
03/08- send dossier to Ethiopia
04/08- update home study for China adoption (update annually)
06/08- get re-fingerprinted for USCIS (update every 15 mos)
11/08- receive & accept our referral for Baby Martin (Ethiopia)
12/08- update Ethiopia home study & apply to extend immigration approval with USCIS (update every 18 mos)
12/08- job change/relocate to Birmingham, AL
01/09- apply to a new social service agency & update Ethiopia home study (3rd time) for relocation
02/09- 1st & 2nd court appearances in Ethiopia
I didn’t include all the MANY minor details, and I’m sure I omitted some major ones as well…but, I think you get the picture.
06/06- begin to research adoption agencies
08/06- attend an America World Adoption Association seminar in Springfield, MO
11/06- apply/accepted into AWAA’s China adoption program
01/07- begin our home study for our China adoption
04/07- hand-deliver our completed home study to USCIS for immigration approval; get finger-printed (KC, MO)
06/07- receive approval letter from USCIS to adopt from China
07/07- send dossier to China; receive ‘log in date’ (LID)
10/07- China approves waiting families to pursue concurrent adoptions because of increasing wait
11/07- apply/accepted with AWAA to adopt concurrently
12/07- apply/accepted with AWAA to adopt from Ethiopia
01/08- update home study for our Ethiopia application
02/08- request & receive update with USCIS to adopt from Ethiopia
03/08- send dossier to Ethiopia
04/08- update home study for China adoption (update annually)
06/08- get re-fingerprinted for USCIS (update every 15 mos)
11/08- receive & accept our referral for Baby Martin (Ethiopia)
12/08- update Ethiopia home study & apply to extend immigration approval with USCIS (update every 18 mos)
12/08- job change/relocate to Birmingham, AL
01/09- apply to a new social service agency & update Ethiopia home study (3rd time) for relocation
02/09- 1st & 2nd court appearances in Ethiopia
I didn’t include all the MANY minor details, and I’m sure I omitted some major ones as well…but, I think you get the picture.
2.09.2009
God extends favor...
But Hannah answered, “No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the LORD. Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation.”
Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.”
Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.
1 Sam 1:15-18
As we wait for our second court date on 2/16, we continue to pray that we find favor in God's eyes -- and that because of His favor and His sovereignty, He would enable our agency to meet the requests of the judge, and that He would melt the judge's heart with satisfaction toward our case.
Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.”
Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.
1 Sam 1:15-18
As we wait for our second court date on 2/16, we continue to pray that we find favor in God's eyes -- and that because of His favor and His sovereignty, He would enable our agency to meet the requests of the judge, and that He would melt the judge's heart with satisfaction toward our case.
2.05.2009
God WILL
Although, we continue 'the wait' for our son -- this week has been a good week. God has placed within my heart a resolve to joyfully anticipate His great blessings!! As I have reflected on the details of court, while contemplating my deepest and most private prayers (of my life) prior to court, I clearly see how God answered me on a very intimate level.
It was very scary for me to acknowledge this deepest need (really having nothing to do with our adoption) as I anticipated court, because until now I have been able to stifle it. I had avoided coming face-to-face with God on this issue for one simple reason: rejection.
But, friend, let me proclaim: I WAS NOT rejected.
God streched our His arm, not to fend me off, but to draw me ever so close. Oh, maybe one day I will be able to share this week's spiritual journey in a not-so-mysterious way, but for now I will continue to "treasure up all these things, pondering them in my heart'.
The most important truth I have learned is that God will. I do not know when, but I now know that He will.
For those who'd like greater insight regarding our experience in court this week (and what is to come), AWAA recently posted a great article on their blog: Integrity in Ethiopia. It explains more in-depth the complexity of International Adoption.
AND, last night at church we met a precious Ethiopian couple!!! (Actually, they are from Eritrea, but considered themselves Ethiopians -- these two nations have complex history with one another). We only spoke with them briefly because they had to pick-up their children, but we can't wait to get to know them better!!!
The wife came to the States as an infant, but did return to Eritrea with her family for a short period during her childhood. Her husband was actually adopted by a US Caucasian family!! He said it was a wonderful experience, and has since been reunited with his bio family, as well. We shared with them about our adoption, and how much we love & respect Ethiopian culture/people!!! And they just beamed -- you can tell they are very proud of their heritage! They also told us they want to be first in line to babysit Little Martin! I know this family will be a precious gift to us in the seasons to come!! I can't wait to spend more time with them & soak-in all their stories & experiences...and, maybe, even learn the art of making injera!!!
It was very scary for me to acknowledge this deepest need (really having nothing to do with our adoption) as I anticipated court, because until now I have been able to stifle it. I had avoided coming face-to-face with God on this issue for one simple reason: rejection.
But, friend, let me proclaim: I WAS NOT rejected.
God streched our His arm, not to fend me off, but to draw me ever so close. Oh, maybe one day I will be able to share this week's spiritual journey in a not-so-mysterious way, but for now I will continue to "treasure up all these things, pondering them in my heart'.
The most important truth I have learned is that God will. I do not know when, but I now know that He will.
For those who'd like greater insight regarding our experience in court this week (and what is to come), AWAA recently posted a great article on their blog: Integrity in Ethiopia. It explains more in-depth the complexity of International Adoption.
AND, last night at church we met a precious Ethiopian couple!!! (Actually, they are from Eritrea, but considered themselves Ethiopians -- these two nations have complex history with one another). We only spoke with them briefly because they had to pick-up their children, but we can't wait to get to know them better!!!
The wife came to the States as an infant, but did return to Eritrea with her family for a short period during her childhood. Her husband was actually adopted by a US Caucasian family!! He said it was a wonderful experience, and has since been reunited with his bio family, as well. We shared with them about our adoption, and how much we love & respect Ethiopian culture/people!!! And they just beamed -- you can tell they are very proud of their heritage! They also told us they want to be first in line to babysit Little Martin! I know this family will be a precious gift to us in the seasons to come!! I can't wait to spend more time with them & soak-in all their stories & experiences...and, maybe, even learn the art of making injera!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
An Orphan's Ticket Home
Click here to Donate Today!!!
