Update!!

Hey everyone!

I am so sorry we haven't updated this in a while, but things have been moving along!

This period of the process has definitely been a trial and we have been praying for patience, wisdom, and guidance all along the way. Somehow, the paperwork has taken much longer than we expected. But...we *think* we have all of it ready to submit to our agency. We've used about 5 notaries and visited doctor's offices about 5 times, but we're finally there. Of course, the agency could send it back to us and need more updates, so we'll see. We should definitely know within a week or so.

The main focus for us right now is the money. In the big picture, I'm not worried. God has confirmed His support of this adoption multiple times and we know that He will provide if something is in His will. However, the reality is that we are still about $20,000 short. We have been looking at various methods for raising this last portion (the adoption will cost about $43,000 overall). Unfortunately, we aren't having success with grants or funds. Still, we are looking around. My job is a blessing and I'll be getting two unexpected bonuses over the next year; this will help us to pay off any balances or loans by next year.

In the meantime, we've been undertaking another fundraising effort - we've done about 5 different things now :) . We are selling used books, CDs, and DVDs on half.com. It's going great! We have raised about $750 so far! It's a lot of work, actually, but we love doing this. We have asked our friends and family to help by donating any books or music they aren't attached to. We post the stuff online and just wait for a buyer to come along. Please let us know if you have any books or CDs to donate to help us pay for this adoption!

So, overall, things are moving along again. We should have an update for you about the submission of the paperwork in about one week.

God bless!
Phil