Yesterday (Wednesday) we went down to Bethany to formally accept the referral and to work out some of the details of what's to come. Of course, we received a whole new stack of forms and other paperwork to complete and read, but suddenly this isn't quite as bothersome to me. in fact, I almost look forward to this round, because it means we're that much closer to travelling to bring our son home!
One of the things we learned is that we will likely be travelling this fall, sometime between September and November. While this is not a given, the indications are that we're looking at a 4 to 6 month wait at this point because our paperwork is not yet through the 'review room.' So, I have 4 months to get everything in order at home in preparation for the next chapter in our lives to begin.
One thing we did find out is that we will be in China for at least 18 days, which is about a week more than we had been planning. So there is a lot of additional adjustments that will need to be made.
We have so much to be thankful for, and so much still to lay at the feet of our Saviour as we continue to prepare for Colin's homecoming. Pray that we'll get the things done that need to be done. Pray that the finances will be there, and that our needs will be few. Pray that the preparations for our trip will go smoothly. Pray that the adjustments we need to make due to the new schedule will also go smoothly.
I recently was reminded of this song from Steven Curtis Chapman...
As I look back on this road I've travelled,
I see so many times He's carried me through.
If there's only one thing that I've learned in my life;
My Redeemer is faithful and true
His hand has taken us along every step of this journey, and I know He will continue to carry us through what's to come!
The Lorows can hardly wait to meet Colin and to dip their toes in the waters of parenthood with their very dear friends! What a New Year's Eve celebration we will have this year!
ReplyDeleteMatt and Anita,
ReplyDeleteAm anxiously awaiting the arrival of your precious Colin with you. Having had several friends travel this same path, the next few months will be a busy time for you. Ones filled with great anticipation, stress, anxiety, plans and finally joy as Colin is placed in your arms. Enjoy and remember each minute of it so you can share with him as he gets older just what you went through to bring him to your family.
Kimberly