It's been a little while since we've added to our blog, so we just wanted to update everyone on where we are in the adoption process. To put it mildly, this whole ordeal is not for the faint of heart, but will be so worth it in the end!
The dossier has now been authenticated by the State of Arizona and translated into Creole (and by the way, we have a great certified translator to recommend if anyone needs the information). It will be sent to Washington DC this week, where it will be "hand delivered" (at a cost of $120) to the US State Dept. for Federal Authentication (another $500). From there, it will be sent to the Haitian Embassy for final International Authentication (at a cost still to be determined, but heard to be expensive!), and then will FINALLY be sent to the Nation of Haiti, for completion of the adoption process!
As we have gone along this process, God has been faithful to us at every turn. Each step has come with a sizable price tag, but each time He has provided the funds as we have needed them. Now, as we finally get everything sent off to Haiti, we are facing the two largest financial hurdles of all. Before our petition for adoption can go any further, we'll have to give another $9,000 to the Haitian government, and then we'll need to pay an additional $15,000 when the three adoptions are finalized. These seem like insurmountable numbers to us, but we have faith that God will continue to be bless the journey. The lives of these three beautiful children are in the balance, and we have known from the beginning, that He is calling us to do this!
Our T-shirt sales have been good, and we want to thank everyone who has purchased them. Many of you have donated even more than we're asking for the shirts, or have just sent a donation outright. This has truly been a Godsend, and we thank Him for each of you. We have added one new T-shirt design, which also features an original drawing by our son, Nick. Please check it out, as it would be a great Father's Day present. Also, please continue to tell your friends, family and acquaintances. We have been amazed at where some of the shirt orders have come from!
In addition, we are applying for grants from non-profit organizations that are specifically designed to help with international adoptions, and are planning a garage sale in a couple of weeks. We will let everyone know the results of these efforts, as they happen.
Finally, we appreciate your prayers more than you will ever know. As we said, this is not for the faint of heart, and we would never have gotten this far without the support and prayers of so many. To all of our family and friends, we want to say "Thank You", and please continue to keep us in your prayers. Someday, when our three new children are finally here with us, you will ALL be named honorary God Parents. We patiently wait and pray for that day. God continues to be faithful...
Rich and Nanci
