A little closer

Two identical dossiers have been mailed to Eastern Europe, and are expected to arrive tomorrow.  Once received, they will be translated and submitted to the adoption authority in that country.  Over the past four months, we have collected a total of 80 documents.  I remember when I first looked at the list of required documents, and feeling somewhat overwhelmed.  Each document needed to notarized, and finally apostilled (state verification of the notary) in Harrisburg.  If I were to find out tomorrow that our documents got lost somehow, first I would scream very loudly (throughout Lancaster County), and then I would do it all again for these two precious girls we hope to meet very soon. 

Two completed dossiers

The reality of this mission is becoming more evident each and every day.  The day we leave will be bittersweet.  No words will be able to describe the moment we step on a plane knowing we're only days from meeting our girls.  However, we'll also be leaving our other children behind for six or more weeks.  I knew this would be the hardest part of the journey, and it will be.  It's likely that we'll travel in five to seven weeks. 

Over the past several weeks, we've seen our adoption fund grow to almost $4000.  We don't know who has contributed (except for a few who have donated to us personally), but we are more grateful than my words can express.  It's very humbling to ask people to donate money, and even more so to accept it.   We continue to praise God for those who have and will contribute.

The following is adapted from Grace Gems:

All of our present and future blessedness, is wrapped up in His holy and gracious purpose.

If Jehovah is your god--then all of His glorious attributes and perfections are engaged and employed for your eternal welfare!

• His mercy will supply your needs.
• His power will conquer all of your foes.
• His wisdom will direct all of your ways.
• His faithfulness will answer all of your prayers.
• His justice will maintain your cause.
• His infinite love and mercy will be displayed in all of His gracious dealings with you!