I have inherited Your testimonies forever,
For they are the joy of my heart.
I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, even to the end.
Psalm 119: 111, 112

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Faith of a Child...

Rhyan's sweet friend, Gabrielle wrote this poem.
She is 13, and as you can see, is a very gifted writer.
What a blessing to know our children are surrounded by godly, precious friends.
I'm in awe of how many hearts God is preparing to receive our boys.
These words brought me to tears...
 


Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Better is one day in His courts...

This was the first picture we saw of the boys.
Can't wait 'til we can show you their beautiful eyes and smiles!
 
We were informed that "Family Court" for our boys has been scheduled for May 22nd. This is when any living relatives would appear before a judge to verify the relinquishment/abandonment of the boys. Now, this is all still a learning experience for us, but as far as I know, this date would not be scheduled if we were facing serious roadblocks. Of course, all legal technicalities must be carried out.
 
Things are VERY different in Africa, and record keeping there is not at all what it is here. It's not atypical to see a handwritten note taped to a concrete wall announcing court dates, postponements, etc. Email? Stamped and authenticated? Sure... You can ask a village mom when her baby was born and you'd be lucky with a thoughtful answer of, "When the rains came." Huh? Then remember that we aren't even following the same calendar. Sheesh. If we know anything about our boys' history and biological family, it'll be amazing. What we do know and believe is that they are our children through God's work and will. We're super-excited to be part of their story now!
 
Our coordinator told me that typically the adoptive parents are scheduled for court around a month after family court. That means we are preparing to travel sometime around late June. :) We will appear in court and legally adopt our boys! Then, we'll have to come home without them :( and wait for their passports and visas to be complete so we can clear Embassy. Then we'll get to bring them home! Alleluia!
 
Please pray that family court goes smoothly and that our court date is scheduled as expected. Also, pray that God will continue to provide the funds, favor, patience, and encouragement He has heaped upon us already! I'm reminded, Better is one day in His courts than thousands elsewhere. Psalm 84:10
 
It's all so surreal. To be excited for a transatlantic flight - actually four of those doozies... That is God and only God! All for His glory. Can't wait to see my babies!
 
Love,
Patty