In the last post, we were so close to finalizing the home study, but were still in the wait. I am thrilled to say we received our official, finalized home study on December 26th and we have entered a new stage(s) in our journey!
Three weeks have gone by since we rejoiced at finding that manila envelope in the mail containing our copies of the home study. We were able to breathe a sigh of relief and start preparing for the next step. My natural need to prepare kicked into full gear and I began to tackle the next steps.
Sometimes in the adoption journey it feels like a never ending series of "next steps". I've heard other adoptive families use the term "paper pregnant" and can truly relate to that sentiment right now. As soon as one document is signed, another one is waiting. One training completed and another one in the works. It is far too easy to get caught up in the checklist and lose sight of the big picture.
This morning I was sitting in our adoption small group at church and reflecting on how our group has changed since it began. Families have brought children home, new families have joined, adoptions have been finalized and much more. It has been a privilege to see how God is working in these families.
Then it hit me. My own family is building momentum in our process. What has long seemed like a far off future time now may be THIS year. God has brought us through the home study phase and we are feeling very grateful to be moving forward.
We've sent in our application to U.S. immigration and are preparing the required documents for our dossier. In essence, we are in two stages at once. We are in the two stages before the wait to be matched. If things go quickly, there is the potential to be meeting our children in as little as 6 months. Then again, it could be more than 4 years out.
To say we are on an emotional roller coaster is an understatement. On one hand I want to believe this is OUR year we grow our family (as so many of our loved ones have said they are hoping for us). On the other hand I know we may still have a very long road ahead of us before I can hug my children my heart longs for so earnestly.
Being on this roller coaster ride can make it difficult to plan for what lies ahead. Regardless, God has been present through it all and I am thankful I can trust in His plan for my family. He gives me hope through it all.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ~ Jeremiah 29:11
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. ~ Proverbs 3:5-6
Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. ~Psalm 31:24
