A Look Back: April 29th, 2008

I receive my preapproval today! I'm told that this only means that China is acknowledging my letter of intent. Now they will pull my dossier - the "real" paperwork that took 6 months to complete and has been sitting in their office since September 2006 - and decide if I will be a good "match" for Haoyun. This part may take many weeks - or maybe months. I'm thinking I will travel in July or August? But the olympics are in August and that will surely effect travel for adoptions. But September seems an eternity away.

A Look Back: April 22nd, 2008

Paperwork is finally done! My "Electronic Acceptance" or EA is on it's way to the China Center for Adoption Affairs. This is basically a letter of intent to express my desire to adopt Haoyun. The waiting begins - again.

A Look Back: April 14th, 2008

I accept Haoyun's referral today with great joy! God could not have spoken more clearly through His word. The details are too lengthy and private to go into, but I will share the main verse which He confirmed at church yesterday. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2 I didn't realize it, but I was thinking in worldly terms - I had to go back and see what God had to say about the fears I had. When I did that, and chose to change the way my mind was thinking, I knew what His answer was. There is SO much to do now! I have to prepare official paperwork for China to let them know my intent - then I will wait for them to approve my adoption request. Things could move very quickly I'm told.

Happy Easter!

"Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said." Matthew 28:5-6

A Look Back: April 9th 2008

I receive 4 new pictures today - and a brief answer to four questions. The information in Haoyun's file is so sketchy and confusing - and there are contradictory statements. I sent my agency a request for more information a few days ago along with four questions. I had hoped for a paragraph addressing the questions but instead receive a few words answering each question - and there are contradictions in that too! I have to realize that this is all the information I will have - and this is what bothers everyone I have consulted. I have felt since I first saw her picture that God was speaking to me - that she is the child He has chosen - since before the beginning of time. But, I'm confused - and I'm afraid. I'm going to take the next few days and seek the heart of God.