A quick little update as to where we are at in the adoption process. Our paperwork and my fingerprints are currently waiting at the Department of Homeland Security for an adoption officer to be assigned to our case. I'm told that we should have an officer and have everything buttoned up by Valentine's Day. I'm praying that our file is processed MUCH faster than that, but in the big scheme of things February 14th is not that far away. Once the US government says I can bring a child INTO our country, we can present our paperwork to the Albanian Adoption Committee. I understand that it may take them a couple of months to give approval to bring a child OUT of their country, but we still seem to be on tract to have a court date in Albania in June.

So...we wait.  

I'm taking the time to learn Albanian. Let me rephrase that...ATTEMPT to not look like an idiot while making sounds with my face similar to the language of the proud Albanian people. I'm not going to lie; it's not a pretty event, but when I think of those big brown Albanian eyes looking at me trying to communicate what is in her heart...I'll look as stupid as needed.

Isaac has been helpful in getting our girl's bedroom ready. Sorting piles, moving furniture, cleaning corners. I'm still not sure he fully understands what all the commotion is about, but he is eager to be involved. That's a good little brother!

We also have planned out several fundraisers over the next few months. There is a book drive coming and an online auction among other things. I am already so overwhelmed with the blessing of our friends, family and strangers. Nearly $10,000 has been so very generously given to bring our Sweet Girl HOME! That is just so...AWESOME. Thank you! Thank you!  

As you continue to pray over our adoption, here are some specific requests: