Second to the Last

Monday morning, February 23, I was sitting at work pondering what kind of celebration the orphanage may have had for the Chinese New Year. This holiday is the most important in Chinese culture. The beginning of the "Year Of The Dragon" silently passed in my world here in Kennewick Wa.  There were several local celebrations to go to but for some reason I felt unmotivated to attend because it was just another reminder that the child I love so deeply is still a world away.

I have heard so many times in my life that God always has perfect timing.  I believe through faith that this is true, but must admit that at times in my life evidence of personal doubt has manifested itself in the form of worry, stress and complete and utter restlessness.

In this adoption journey, I have had these moments of faithlessness, but God is so good and He continues to remind me that ALL of HIS truths are just that...... TRUE. I have had the greatest peace knowing that we are so close to traveling to China to meet our beautiful God given gift.  And once again God has revealed himself to me in a magical way.

January 23 is the New Year, so there would be no word this week on our Travel Approval.  All Chinese Government is closed for at least two days, but staffing is limited  during the rest of the week as families travel home to celebrate with their loved ones.  My case worker informed me that if we didn't hear by the 23rd, we probably wouldn't hear until at least the 30th. So, there I sit at work dreaming of our daughter, at total peace knowing that our travels will most likely be the latter part of February.

My phone rings and Lauren (my case worker) tells me that we have Travel Approval (or TA).  She then goes on to tell me that the tentative date to pick Josie up is Feb. 13th, and suggests that we fly out on Feb. 9th.  What? Totally unexpected this day and such an amazing and perfect gift.  This is like 17 days away!! I am in such shock and total wonderment. What??????? It's the 23rd? I thought.... then I can't help to laugh. I thought. I thought.  Just when I begin to believe that I know what to expect, God gifts me with the unexpected. He is so awesome!

We are on the second to the last step. All we have to do now is submit our 5 picks for consulate appointments and wait for confirmation. We submitted Feb 20,21,22,23 and 27th.  As soon as we get our consulate appointment (or CA) we can book our flights and get outta here.

I am so blessed, so happy, so much in awe. I give all glory to God!

I pray that soon, I will be able to blog............. Flights are BOOKED!