Here we are…16 months from our December 2005 Log In Date with Chinese Adoption Affairs...if that isn't reason enough to start a blog, tell me what is! :o) It's now officially 2-years since we took the first steps on this journey that we thought would only be 9 months short.
We are now in the process of re-doing fingerprints (they expire after 15 months), new home study, new doctor's exams for all of us, new immigration form renewals, etc. Costly, timely, hectic to schedule in our family of 5. But God's overwhelming peace makes all this bearable. Not easy, but sure.
Our excitement has diminshed in some forms...like that anticipatory glow look...long gone. Our excitement continues in heart and soul. The kiddos, however, continue to publish their excitement in so many beautiful, expressive ways, thankfully!
We do have faith that our daughter, the daughter chosen for us, will come home. Many people want to know why it is taking so long. So do we! :o) Based on the trends, we're forcasting travel to China in Fall 2007. The latest reliable info out there: the current wait time for a referral is roughly 17 months from a family’s LID. The waiting-time frame is STILL subject to increase, as this has been the trend since the fall of 2005.
Thank you to all who have been praying us through. An old friend once shared during a difficult time, that she just couldn't pray for herself anymore and that only prayers from others were her saving grace. I honor that Word and know that I need it, too. For those of you who wish to pray for us, here are a few ways: (1) pray for the Chinese Government officials, (2) Pray for the Chinese Adoption Affairs matchmakers, (3) for each of us Randy, Denise, Noah, Simon, Elizabeth, (4) pray for good health and healing of any malady that may slow or hurt this adoption process (we must be healthy and free from any serious issue/disorder!) (5) pray for Rachel. I'm guessing she is around 12-14 months old right now, give or take a few months.
Psalm 34:7 says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." I love and hold on to this verse with all my spirit. It is the desire of our hearts to have our Rachel home. I am sure when we finally meet our daughter, an event which will undoubtedly be sweeter due to these delays, we will say "Welcome home, we've been waiting for you, too."
Hugs & Blessings in our LORD Jesus Christ
