Pray. Trust. Wait. Repeat.

Waiting is Hard. 

Really Hard.

We have currently been waiting on our LOA for 22 days. 

The LOA is the document that allows us to move forward with the final steps to travel.  It is unclear how long we will have to wait.  Some families get their LOA's in 20 days with china's new computer system.  There are other families that have to wait over 100 days.  

 Yes, we continue to enjoy life and focus on the positives, but we are certainly counting down the days until she is in our arms for good. Hold tight my darling!

China Adoption Process

Clear as mud?

Waiting on Step #8

Happy 2nd Birthday

I woke up to the best birthday present this morning!  New pictures of Ivy.  We were able to send Ivy a cake for her birthday.  There is a sweet lady in China that helps families get care packages and other special things to the children.  It is a great set up and cost far less than trying to mail something from here.  I was so happy to see that some of the other children got to join in on the fun. 

Orphan Sunday

Today is Orphan Sunday

November is National Adoption Month

Today I am grateful that I now know who my little girl is and she will be an orphan no more.

Today, and everyday, I am heartbroken for those who will never know the love of a Family

Out there in the world there is an estimated 147 million "Ivy's"

What is difficult for me to process is this word "orphan".  "Orphan" implies sadness and when the word is used people tend to stop there, to feel sadness and hopelessness.  Yes, they are children who need families.  They are smart, funny, joyful, caring, giving, strong, beautiful, and courageous beyond measure.  They are children who have had terrible things happen to them - but they are still children.  Each and every one of them has a personality, little quirks, and sweet smiles.  No child can be labeled "orphan" and nothing else.  These children are REAL, as are their hopes and dreams.  WE are the ones who are blessed to have them in our lives.  We are not the AMAZING ONES.  IVY IS THE AMAZING ONE!

Thank you to everyone that has already participated in our PUZZLE fundraiser.  The puzzle pieces are only $5 and we would love to have all 300 filled with our family and friends' names.  We can't wait to show Ivy the back of this puzzle when she is older.  It is a true testimony of the support and love you have shown for HER.  Please go to our paypal link on the puzzle blog entry here (PUZZLE) to get yours.