Submitted to Embassy

We got submitted to Embassy today! This means we wait for the Embassy to grant us a visa to bring Hadi back to the U.S. The Embassy has been a little interesting and unpredictable with the rate as which they issue visas, so we really don't know the time frame. Praying for it to be soon though. We are ready.

This is a new pic we got of Hadi today as well. I've had a few people say to me, "I bet she will have that expression a lot when she gets home wondering what craziness we have brought her into with 3 older brothers." I have to agree!

Poem

This is a poem a dear friend gave me about adoption...I loved it!

"Conceived in my heart I earnestly prayed,

But never imagined you'd come so arrayed.

Not flesh of my flesh, nor bone of my bone,

Not under my heart, but oh, so deep in it sown.

I knew from the start since the moment we met,

When my eyes gazed upon you, destiny was set,

To enter but a short journey as mother and child,

With joy and sorrows, memories to be compiled,

A mosaic of beauty with many colors entwined,

The fabric so strong, with my Savior combined.

I love you sweet child, and in time you will see,

You're much more than chosen, but precious to me,

For God planted this yearning in me long ago,

To bring Him forth fruit, that together we grow!"

-Estelle

Hadi's Room

Here are a few pics of Hadi's room. It is ready and waiting for her. I love to go in her room and turn on all the lamps...I sit there and feel like she will be home soon.

It has been a blast to decorate a girls room...I didn't know what I was missing! I really feel like it was a gift from God to be able to do it for her.

This is my favorite part of the room...artwork by Trevor. He did a fantastic job!

There is a little Ethiopian dress hanging on the wall next to her picture...waiting for her to wear.

Baby Shower Time!

This past weekend I had a beautiful shower. It was wonderful to celebrate and prepare for sweet Hadi. It made me feel closer to her and helps pass the time while we wait.

Official Party givers! Some of my most precious friends.

My girlfriend made these Africa cookies with a heart on Ethiopia.

Best friend of 15 years...we are getting old!

My mom came to visit too...it was a great time together.

Thank you everyone for your special gifts. Her dresser drawers are filled and the dresses are hung in the closet...we are ready. Come on paperwork!