Approved!!

Today November 12, 2010 we got an exciting phone call. Our adoption agency called to inform us that our application had not only been approved but approved specifically for the Ethiopia program. YEAH!!!!! And so our journey continues. While speaking to the intake processor on the phone she told me an entire slew of information I knew I wouldn't remember and finished off by saying she had sent everything in an email and it was okay if I was a little overwhelmed.  I immediately called Scott and told him! He was just as thrilled as I was because this gets us one step closer to our baby. After reading the very thorough email with 8 attachments (some to just read and some to send back) I breathed a sigh of relief. Relief that one step, of I am sure 10,000, was done. 

Our next step is to return our agency agreement with a down payment for our program. After this is completed we will start our home study. But until our home study is completed we are unable to apply for any grants that can aid us with the cost. Currently an international adoption from Ethiopia can cost anywhere from $30,000-$45,000. Which leads me to a cry for help. Although we realize that we will have to put our own funds towards this adoption we are trusting God that He will provide for the bulk of our costs through our community, church, friends and family. By this I mean fundraising. After much research we have found that fundraising is a huge success when it comes to covering adoption fees. We have seen everything from t-shirt sales (which not only raise money but allow an opportunity to educate others about the orphan crisis), jewelry sales with an adoption theme. We have seen others raffle off donated services, like a photography session or a condo in Hawaii! Everything and anything works. So if you have any ideas or would like to help please let us know. We would love it if you can help us bring our baby boy home. 

To those who are confused about us asking for help, let me say this, James 1:27 clearly says,

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you."   

Scott and I are called to adopt. The way we are called to live out this piece of scripture is by opening our hearts, home and family to one who would not otherwise have these things. Simple as that. But we also know that not everyone is called to adopt. However we do believe that each of us has a responsibility when it comes to orphans. Your calling may be to give us words of encouragement when we need them. Maybe you are able to give financially and help us cover some of the costs. Ultimately the greatest thing you can do for us during this journey is join us in prayer. We covet your prayers more than you know and love each and everyone of you as you walk with us and help in anyway you can to bring our baby home to us. 

We anticipate everything God is going to accomplish through each of you and believe that the story He is writing about our baby boy will show God's grace, mercy, providence and love in a miraculous way!!!