June numbers

We got our official numbers for June. They are 27 for a girl and 16 for a boy. We thought we were going to be at 25 and 15. Well we have someone that keeps track of the referrals. As soon as there is a referral, the lists move. However, as far as our agency goes, it isn't "Official" until those families get their paperwork in. So...for sure in July we will be at least 25 and 15. :)

Things have been very slow in the referral world which is very disheartening. However, many families have passed court. There are also many that have been given embassy appointments which is the clearance they need to go and bring their little ones home. We are certainly rejoicing with the fact that postive things are happening...we just wish there would be more referrals.

This summer has been super crazy and busy. It sure helps to keep my mind off the fact that we aren't even close to getting a picture of our new little one's face. However, even in the middle of all of the chaos, it is always in the back of our minds. What parent would ever be too busy to not think/hope/dream about their newest child?

We got an email from our case worker that really does sum things up well. I'm going to share it with you as it sums things up way better than I ever could. "In closing, Kiersten recently completed her first marathon and in hearing about her experience, it had us thinking about all of you and this crazy beautiful race of adoption you are running.  Particularly for those of you in the waiting stage of the adoption process, this long race I’m sure may seem overwhelming and exhausting at times.  Some of you are now on mile 22 of your wait.  Your knees are giving out, you’re exhausted, and you are ready to stop running.  Others of you are on mile 3.  You are feeling good, strong, but looking up at the long road ahead.  Regardless of where you find yourself at in this race, I’m here with encouraging words to root you on…and to offer you a little “Gatorade” of course!  J  We will, and have, encountered obstacles along this race, but today I just wanted to encourage you to keep putting one foot forward in front of the other.  Each step forward is one step closer to that finish line!"

Please continue to pray for all involved on each step of this journey. There have been some major changes in the Ethiopian program. There have been some positive things happening. There is also still very much uncertainity. Thanks for your love, support, and prayers. They are appreciated greatly.