Paper trail . . .

So, as we continue in this "paper chase" phase, we are working on obtaining documents, information, etc. as we can. Joe and I both applied for our passports a couple of weeks ago. Mine came in the mail yesterday, so we're expecting Joe's soon. I'm working on gathering some needed photos. We've all had our TB tests done, except Joe who has to wait to get his at the dr. b/c he can't get to the health dept. during their testing hours. We've got the kids medical forms completed that are required for the homestudy, and Joe and I both have physicals this week (yay) for our homestudy and our dossier. And a lot of other paperwork, references, etc. in the works.

We spent the afternoon in downtown Indy last Friday. The kids and I spent some time reading and looking at books at Borders while Joe got some more copies of his birth certificate.

Then we walked a few blocks to the government center to submit the paperwork for police clearance letters and be fingerprinted. I thought that part was actually pretty interesting. I met a lady who was being finger printed when we got there - she is in the process of adopting two children from Haiti! Anyway, we should get that paperwork back in a few weeks. Over this past week, we've both been working on our 8+ hours of required online adoption training.

This is the kids waiting for us to be done at the government building - don't they look thrilled to be there? ;o)



The kids watching Joe getting fingerprinted.


Next week we officially begin our homestudy with an in-home meeting where I will be interviewed as well as Joey and Gracie. Joe will be interviewed at a separate meeting at their offices.

For those of you who are praying for us, first of all, we appreciate it so very much! It is so evident to me personally by the peace that God gives in the middle of desire, anticipation and business. It is still struggle to quiet my mind and rest in God, some days harder than others, but it is so clear that people are praying and that He is working. He continues to provide financially as we need it, and we are so grateful! As far as the prayer request in my last post, we have not reached a decision in that area yet. We are praying, as always, for wisdom, faith, and patience! I am also praying that I won't be so consumed with the things going on in my own life that I fail to see the people and the opportunities that God puts around me everyday!

Psalm 62:5-8
"For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence,
for my hope is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
On God rests my salvation and my glory;
my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us.
Selah"