147 million orphans

i don't like fundraising.  i don't usually go to jewelry parties, make-up parties, you get the idea.  however, adoption is really stinking expensive.  we totally went into this saying over and over and over  "God will fund what He favors." and we totally believe that!  but, being the little planner i am,  i also feel like maybe i should help God out a little.  :)  just kidding!  so, we signed up for a partnership program through 147 million orphans.  i'm sure some of you are familiar with this amazing organization. basically, if you click on the button on the side of the blog that says "we are a 147 million orphans fundraising family" and make a purchase from OUR link, a portion of your sale goes straight to our agency, into our little account, and helps us bring our baby(ies) home.  and most importantly, you will be helping to spread the word about the orphan crisis.  we will only get credit if you use our link.  they have tons of cute shirts, bags, necklaces, and hats.  i won't harass, i promise, but i might occasionally post a reminder.  ;)

much love,

s

waiting

we finally made it to the waiting period.  i've heard this is the worst part.  and while that may eventually be true, right now we are happy to be here.  let the waiting begin.  so, here's a timeline because it seems like everyone is asking right now.

12/17/11 - home study

1/28/12 - received home study back and made corrections

2/4/12 - had all our remaining paperwork notarized

2/5/12 - received final copy of home study in the mail

2/6/12 - fedexed dossier (basically a collection of a bunch of papers) to our agency and fedexed immigration application to USCIS

that's a timeline of what's happened so far.  now for what is next.  our paperwork should arrive in ethiopia in 3-4 weeks.  we should get immigration approval in the next 3 months.  then hopefully within 6 months, we will get a referral (a picture and description of our possible child/children.)  once we accept, we will take our first trip for court about 3 months later.  we will stay in ethiopia around a week and come home.  about 3 months after the first trip, we make our second trip to bring our babies home.  i keep saying "babies" hoping we get two out of this deal.  and yes, we are nuts, but couldn't be happier about this decision!

thanks for all the prayers and support!  i know we will need it now, but even more in about a year!

much love,

s and a