In Process...

We received some wonderful news yesterday!  As of January 17th, we are "In process!"  In the adoption community, we call it out of translation (OOT).  This means our dossier has been translated into Chinese and is in the process of being reviewed to be approved!  Typically, LOA's are approved 4-6 weeks after OOT.  It is likely that we will get approval toward the end of February.  We are still praying for an earlier LOA in order to get to China before her birthday.  This is unlikely, but as I've mentioned before, God is an amazing God, and we are specifically praying for His will and His provision to bring her home before her birthday April 12th.

I learned this week that China's spring import and export fair is April 15-May 5.  This wouldn't affect our first week as we will be in Zhengzhou, China in the Henan province for the first week of our trip.  This is where we will have Maeli's gotcha day and also process some provincial paperwork.  However, the second week is spent in Guangzhou where the trade fair is held.  During this time airline prices as well as hotel prices significantly increase and in some cases are doubled.  This is another reason to pray for a super fast LOA in order to get our sweet girl before the trade fair.  There are a few days that the trade show is inactive during this time, but pricing typically remains elevated.  We trust God's perfect timing and know He hears our prayers.

Please join us in praying for Maeli, those who are caring for her, her friends who are still in need of a family, and that we receive our LOA soon.  Thank you for sharing in this journey with us!