We got some unexpected news on the adoption front yesterday. The Ethiopian government announced yesterday that all adoptive parents must travel to Ethiopia for their court dates in order for adoptions to become finalized. This means that we will now have to make 2 trips to Ethiopia, once to appear in court and the second to pick our son up and bring him to the U.S.
The first trip will last about 5 days and we will have a chance to meet our child and appear in court. The second trip will be after the adoption is finalized and will be to appear for a U.S Embassy interview to process our son's immigration visa. The second trip should occur 3-6 weeks after the first. We are still not sure of all of the details, but should hear more from our adoption agency soon.
I must admit, yesterday I had a really hard time with this. 2 trips! Really! We definitely had not planned for this extra expense. And having to travel twice so close together! How is that gonna work with our jobs? And probably the worst part, having to meet our son, begin bonding, and then have to leave him behind!?!?!? Oh, I can't even imagine!!!
All of these thoughts became a little overwhelming and I will say, I threw myself a little pity party. I just started feeling a little down about the fact that the average wait time for referral has gone from 7.5 months to when we first got on the list, to 9 months at this point. There also just doesn't seem to be a lot going on with the unofficial wait list! And now 2 trips!
But the optimistic Shannon did find her way out eventually! Now we get to take 2 trips to Africa! We also get to meet our son 3-6 weeks earlier than we originally would have gotten to! God has blessed us so much, and we know that he will make this all work out.
Brian reminded me that when we get our son, nothing else will matter.
8 comments:
as hard as this is ... Brian is absolutely right. nothing will matter. i don't know how that works but it's so true. xoxo
I'm glad you're seeing the positive in a tricky situation. And Brian's right- that little boy of yours will be worth all the trouble in the end!
You'll be so amazed, when all is said and done, and you look back over all the events and see God's hand in ALL of it! He's faithful!
I am covered with chill bumps just thinking of you guys getting to meet your little boy! Praise God!
Somehow, the money issue will work out. It always, always does. ("Working at the caaaar wash...")
In addition to those good things you mentioned, you will also get two opportunities to see your son's homeland. How beautiful that will be!
Lots of love.
"And God works for the good in all things of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:29
Thanks guys! So great to have such wonderful friends! Love you all!!!!
Im getting so excited for you guys! What a beautiful plan God has for you and that precious little boy! He has provided this opportunity and will continue to provide grace and patience.
Praying for you!!!
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