Referral Time

     People are always asking us what the next step is in the adoption process.  With each step that we move forward, there are several weeks of waiting.  Lots of waiting!  In April, we received our I600A approval in record time.  At that point, we were ready to accept a referral.  A referral is paperwork that we sign to say that we have a son.  We get pictures, medical information, and history of the child with a referral.  We have been praying and seeking wise counsel over 2 different boys' information since April.  After receiving the last bit of information last Friday, we accepted the referral of our son.  His name is Exauce BAMBALATIWE.  Try saying that 5 times fast!  Lol!  His birthday is May 20th, 2006.  (this past Monday - Happy Birthday!)  We cannot put pictures of him on the computer until he is home with us for security reasons.  If you want to see a picture of him, just ask because I will have it with me!  :)   We are so excited to share this news with you and praise the Lord for the things He is doing in this adoption journey.  The Lord continues to open the eyes of His people to adoption, the orphan crisis, loving others, serving others, and giving sacrificially.  We are "BLESSED!"  :)

     The next step for us will be to wait for a court date in D.R. Congo.  The average wait time for a court date is 2 - 3 months.  We do not have to be present in court because our agency will represent us.  After the court's ruling that we are officially his parents, we wait for the next step.  I told you that there was a lot of waiting!  Lol!  Thank you for following our journey to our son.  Now, the real fun begins! :)