In my usual fashion, this update is way overdue. I, much like this process, take f-o-r-e-v-e-r.
First off, THANK YOU to those who joined us in prayer several months ago. Thankfully the Ethiopian government decided to keep their international adoption program open. They, along with U.S. immigration, are continually implementing procedures to better the process as a whole. As with all elements of international adoption, this is a slow process and ever-evolving. We have been very encouraged lately as we have seen more movement in the last several months than we did the whole previous year. (We are close to breaking in the top 20 with our agency wait list!)
In May we went through the process of having our home study updated once again. Soon we will receive our fingerprint appointment where we will drive to Ft. Smith and have them done again (why yes, our fingerprints have now expired for the second time ;-) This week we will also send in the paperwork (and large check) to U.S. Immigration so our I-171H can be renewed again. (refresher: this is the document that approves us to bring our internationally adopted child into the country where they will become a citizen upon landing on U.S. soil.)
So here we are. How much longer you might ask? That is clearly something I have not known since day 1: February 25th, 2011. Prayerfully, fingers-crossed, glass half full: I'd see that precious face we have been waiting for in 2015. Of course, only God knows...good thing I have complete and utter faith in Him. ;-) Thank you again for continuing to keep us in your prayers during this journey.
First off, THANK YOU to those who joined us in prayer several months ago. Thankfully the Ethiopian government decided to keep their international adoption program open. They, along with U.S. immigration, are continually implementing procedures to better the process as a whole. As with all elements of international adoption, this is a slow process and ever-evolving. We have been very encouraged lately as we have seen more movement in the last several months than we did the whole previous year. (We are close to breaking in the top 20 with our agency wait list!)
In May we went through the process of having our home study updated once again. Soon we will receive our fingerprint appointment where we will drive to Ft. Smith and have them done again (why yes, our fingerprints have now expired for the second time ;-) This week we will also send in the paperwork (and large check) to U.S. Immigration so our I-171H can be renewed again. (refresher: this is the document that approves us to bring our internationally adopted child into the country where they will become a citizen upon landing on U.S. soil.)
So here we are. How much longer you might ask? That is clearly something I have not known since day 1: February 25th, 2011. Prayerfully, fingers-crossed, glass half full: I'd see that precious face we have been waiting for in 2015. Of course, only God knows...good thing I have complete and utter faith in Him. ;-) Thank you again for continuing to keep us in your prayers during this journey.