Asking for more info is, apparently, a good thing

We asked everyone we know to pray that USCIS would approve our paperwork sooner than the 3 month expected wait. When we heard about the request for more information, we were worried it would be delayed. WRONG! Our approval form arrived one month and one week after they recieved our paperwork!!! Yes, we did a little dance.

More fingerprints?

As I mentioned in a previous post, our paperwork is with USCIS. They sent a letter to us about a week ago, requesting more information. Usually, this is not a good thing, as it can delay the process. However, our agencies were on top of it and sent the needed documents in the same week. We also received a letter informing us of an appointment with INS for another set of fingerprints. Another set? This will be the 3rd time we've had our fingers rolled over the glass and impressions were made and saved in the system. Maybe someone forgot to push the 'save' button. The repetitive fingerprints, copies of birth certificates and setting appointments for, yet another, medical exam can be a little frustrating.

However... we also see it as a good sign. At least now we know that USCIS has actually looked at our paperwork, that they've taken it out of the stack of hundreds and given us some attention. At least we know we are one step closer to receiving their approval, which will lead us to some of the final steps in the US - finishing our dossier and sending it to Peru. Basically the dossier is more copies of documents - the LAST copies - and then we can head to Peru to embrace our children once again.

Community is life shared

Friends, family and strangers gathered with us to share this life and this adventure of adoption by hosting event in our honor. There was a band, tables full of balloons and pictures of our experiences in Peru, a silent auction, hundreds of baked goods, an amazing kids corner - including games and 2 bouncy castles and a wonderful dinner cooked by one of our dearest friends. Over 300 people came to show their support, share kind words and participate in the event. The evening was a success, but in more ways than you might think. The hugs, kind words, questions and excitement from so many people made us realize that our children are not just being adopted by Joel and I - they are being adopted by our community. We were introduced to new people who shared their own story of volunteering, their desire to serve and even their own adoption stories. We are overwhelmed with gratitude and humbled by the love and generosity that so many people have lavished on us. Our hearts are anxious to have our children home and to share this life with our community.

Keeping it general

In hopes to keep my blog open - and not have to reduce it to invites only - I need to be more general with information regarding our adoption plans. Yes - everything is still in the works, but we are 'technically' just in the beginning phases. Please know that when our paperwork is approved and children are assigned, we will definately be posting pictures and information about the children to share with all of you!

Thank you for your understanding. More news to come!