I-800 A done and waiting

As I was going through some photos tonight and praying for Evy and several of the other children from the trip it hit me. It was exactly 4 months ago I held her in my arms for the very first time. November 10th is the first day we visited her orphanage. The picture below is the first time I held her.

At times I think I am doing really well. Then someone asks me about the process. I am excited to share and it makes me glad others want to know, but at the same time makes me sad. I so wish she knew I was going to be her mama, that she has someone who loves her and wants her to be part of her family! That that crazy American who loved her a lot and gave her tons of attention and love is going to be her family.  

Today, God showed me in several ways this is still His story  and He is writing it. First, I got a call from our AWANA Missionary (back in late January he had stopped by to check on ministry and life and I mentioned my change and plans to adopt). He was calling to pray with me and for Evy. He didn't really want anything except to say He was praying and wanting to know how to be praying. He is excited about the. adoption. Made my morning!! Then I got a donation towards the adoption. I will set it aside for the next step. Just when I need encouragement God steps in and says I am here.  I am so blessed to serve such a loving and mighty Savior! I can't wait to teach Evy about her creator. To tell her how God brought us together. I pray for her to know the saving grace of Jesus! 

Update on adoption progress. I mailed my I-800 A last Friday. According to timeline of other families about 10 days after mailing they get notice it is there and another week to 10 days to get fingerprint appointment date. So right now I am in a waiting phase again :). I have a fundraiser on Monday - our local IMO's is donating a portion of sales from the entire day (for all orders). It is amazing to live ina small community and get their support. I will be having IMO's for lunch and dinner! 

Home Study Complete

First big step can be checked off! Just last week I was frustrated and struggling with waiting and today that prayer is answered! I met this morning with the social worker and read over the home study noticed a couple mistypes. She said she would go back to office correct it and mail it to me!

This evening I got an email from the agency congratulating me on completing the home study. Next step in I-800A (immigration approval). I have this application printed and signed. All paperwork that goes with it is set out - including a check :)  Just have to add home study and take to post office.

I will have more waiting for this step after it is mailed. However this are now other action steps I can work on. I have a couple more documents to get for my dossier and now that I have a completed home study I can begin applying for grants - which should keep me busy for a little bit!

Thank you for the continued prayers and encouragement through this process!!