We're Officially Official!

Yes, that's right; all of our papers have been approved, our final home check was complete and we're official!  From this point on we have what is called "A Family Profile."  This summarizes us, both individually and as a couple.  Our caseworker, Jess, wrote this based on the millions of papers we had to submit along with our response to the training sessions we had with her.  This profile has already been sent out (the day it was complete - surprise, surprise...can you tell I'm my mother's daughter?) to the caseworkers of all the children's names posted in our last blog.  So, if their caseworker likes what they read and thinks we may be suitable fit for the children, our caseworker will get a complete profile on the children that she will review with us.  Once Jordan and I feel that there is a specific group we'd like to pursue, a series of interviews will entail.

At this point we'd really appreciate prayer.  As you can see from the previous blog, there are quite a few children about whom we may receive additional information.  We both feel overwhelmed at the tremendous responsibility of "choosing" which sibling group to truly and actively pursue.  It is our prayer that God will clearly close doors (He can slam them shut for all we care) to siblings he does not want us to pursue and keep doors open for the groups that He does.  It's so easy for us to read over the names and the little bit of information we've been given (age, location, basic interests) and be drawn to a specific group or two.  We're trying our best to be open and responsive during this process.

 We're also praying for a quick matching process.  We know His timing is perfect, but we think it would be beneficial to have the kids spend us much time with us before we move to Quantico and Jordan must start the rigorous training of TBS.  Selfishly, we'd love to matched with them by Christmas, but in all reality that will take a small..well, more like medium-sized miracle.  We're already dreaming of cutting down the Christmas tree, taking the kids to Christmas Eve Service, opening presents, baking cookies, and visiting family.  So, as you think of it, shoot up a quick prayer for clear guidance and a speedy match!

On another note, dear friends of ours our going through the adoption process along side of us.  It's been so wonderful to have friends that truly understand this process and the array of feelings that come along with it. (Feel free to keep them in your prayers too...they are adopting a boy from Ethiopia) I'd like to leave you with a song she sent me regarding the adoption process.  Please take minute when you have the chance and listen to this song called "One Less" by Matthew West.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ej7gQ0WxR1k&feature=youtube_gdata_player

It's only about three minutes - we think you'll like it!

Hopefully you'll hear from us again soon with substantial news...happy praying!