redeemed Bracelets! $10 each!

We have some really great bracelets for sale to raise money for the kids' piggy bank! :) They are saving money to get to go with us to meet their brother in Ethiopia. If you want one, please click on the link at the bottom righ that says "Buy Now" and I will get it shipped off to you! They are $10 each and make a really great gift for someone special! :)

Home Study Application...Check!

Isn't she so precious?? Sutherlin is such a cutie...so full of life, so passionate, and oh so much energy! :)
How in the world did I get all of our paperwork complete for our Home Study Application with this little ball of fire ruling my life??! I have a one word answer...G-R-A-M-M-Y.
Yes, if it weren't for Grammy and Coach in my life, I would still be at least 2 months out on paperwork. Such servants. I'm telling you, they are seriously the epitome of the hands and feet of Jesus.
So, we are celebrating one step checked off of our list to bringing our son home from Ethiopia!! If you know anyone in the international adoption world, you know how overwhelming the paperwork can be. I think I actually broke down in tears a couple of times just trying to wrap my brain around all that had to be done...and still has to be done.  And, life doesn't just stop to allow you to do it. Life keeps flying at you fast. There are still meals to be made, diapers to be changed, clothes to be washed, etc. etc. etc. Life as we know it is a little nuts now-a-days. And, my sweet sweet hubby...somehow managed to make himself sit down and hand write answers for over 100 questions after 14 hour work days...unbelievable. Let's just say, this paperwork was a hard fought battle, and we are going to pause and take time to celebrate this victory.
I'm still amazed by how God's hands have been guiding us through this entire process. His favor has been undeniable. From doctor visits, to marriage license, to notorized papers, the Lord has been faithful and good.
I had an incredible opportunity to go to an adoptive mom's conference in Georgia a couple of weekends ago. What a gift!! So much wisdom. So many good tools and ideas. I really really loved hearing from adults who were adopted as babies...such great insight. But, I was overwhelmed and amazed by two things specifically. 1. God's rich pursuit of my own heart. 2. The incredible movement of adoption all across the nation. I mean, it is evident that God's heart is for these precious precious children to be placed in families and He is ON THE MOVE. You better believe it.
So, what's next for us?? Well, we wait to hear from the Home Study Agency (should be this week) to set up a visit. They will come for 4 days to spend time with our family. Until then.......................................we celebrate.....................we celebrate a giant victory in bringing our son home. And a really phenomenal Grammy that made this victory possible.