Adoption Update

We finally received our I797 approval of our I800A.  It took longer than expected.  So our I800 has now be submitted.  Our time to travel starts now.  YAY!!!  It is expected we could get our travel approval in 10-14 weeks.  We would then have 7-14 days notice to fly. 

So now the frenzy begins.  We should get I800 approval in 2-4 weeks.  Once we have that we can submit our visa applications.  So I am currently working on preparing visa applications for us and our travel companions (Kevin's parents).  I also just got an email on completing the DS230 (AK's visa application).  I have not looked at it yet, but will need to get it completed.  The visa process is the a great example of what is wrong with government.  Depending on which consulate you go through, there are different applications and procedures.  Nothing is standard.  You can no longer mail in a form with all the necessary documents and fees.  You have to go through a courier service to hand deliver your documents (unless you are able to do this yourself).  Looking at the courier services is even more funny.  They are these homemade type websites.  I appreciate these people doing this service (with a fee), but I would have thought it would be more professional than what I am experiencing.  Then, maybe I am over complicating hand delivering an application and picking it up.

Even better news is that we also received an update on Anna Kate with pictures.  God has answered my biggest pray.  She can walk and even run.  Praise God!  The update letter is testament to our prayers and God's hand on AK.  At 12 months, AK is 18 lbs and 29" tall (Bennett was 21lbs and 29" tall at same age).  They say she is lively and active little girl who loves to play.  She can imitate people by waving and blowing kisses.  She can understand what the nannies are saying.  They also say that she is a good eater even chubby.  (I need one good eater.)  She is also a good sleeper.  Hallelujah!  What did a do to deserve two good sleepers? 

Please continue to pray for the following:
1.  Paperwork process goes smoothly.
2.  Pray for Bennett's transition.
3.  Pray for the families that will be keeping Bennett while we are gone and that Bennett does well while we are away.
4.  Pray for safe travels.
5.  Pray for AK's health.
6.  Pray for AK's adjustment, attachment, and bonding.
7.  Pray for our endurance in traveling and the emotions of meeting AK.

Anna Kate: