So, we've had a slight change in our plans. Okay, slight is not a big enough word, but had to start with some humor. 

We are in Korea, just finished a wonderful meal together and are packing bags for a flight home. However, we are only packing bags for Julie.

With the Omicron Variant sweeping the globe, many nations are imposing stronger restrictions and measures to combat the spread of this virus. South Korea is one of those nations who has taken further action to protect its citizens and slow the spread. Currently, we are in Korea with a Quarantine Exemption, meaning we were not subject to the 10-day quarantine required of visitors to Korea. However, that allowance has ended and we would be subject to a quarantine on our return visit.

In partnership with our agency (and much prayer) we have made the decision that Andrew will stay in Korea through the duration of this adoption and bring little brother home alone. We are not the only family making this tough decision and feel it is best for our family, especially should the situation get worse.

We are grateful for the support of Starbucks to allow Andrew to take a 30-Day Personal Leave from work and use some additional Vacation to finish this process. Without this, we would be in a much more difficult situation. Many hotels are at capacity due to the changing plans of many travelers, but we were able to secure a room for Andrew in our current hotel in a familiar area of Seoul through the New Year.

This was not the plan we had for ourselves, but we know the Lord has set this path before us. While it will be filled with much anxiety, grief and stress, we know that the end will be filled with joy as we reunite as a family of four. We are so grateful for those who have helped us along the way. If you are looking for a way to help, all donations through this fundraiser are tax-deductible.

Your prayers for our family during this time will be greatly needed as we continue to navigate the ambiguity of this very fluid situation.