Just One More Thing

On February 9th, our adoption paperwork was submitted to the US Embassy in Ethiopia.  When the Embassy receives an adoption case, they thoroughly screen it to ensure that the facts surrounding a child’s relinquishment or abandonment are true and that the child meets the definition of an orphan under U.S. immigration law.  Once they determine that the case is complete, the Embassy works with the family and their adoption agency to select a date for an immigrant visa interview.  This is the final step in the process before bringing your child home. 

Once submitted, the Embassy has 7-10 days to let you know whether you are cleared or if any additional paperwork or time is needed.  On Friday (Day 10), we learned that they are requesting an additional document from the police in the area our son is from confirming the circumstances surrounding the passing of his birth mother.  I do not know how many times we have told people during this process that we are waiting on just one more thing, but it has been plenty.  We’re not sure how long it will take to obtain this final document.  It may take days, or it may take weeks, and ultimately depends on how cooperative the police want to be. 

Today, it has been seven months since we received our referral and saw his sweet face for the first time.  It has been almost four months since we first held him in our arms and received our first hugs and kisses.  Tomorrow, will mark one month since he was legally and irrevocably named our son.  We miss him and we are ready to bring him home.

Our dear friend, Lori Laughner, delivered a care package to Trey Chalew for us last month when she traveled to Ethiopia for her Embassy appointment.  She sent us a video and we thought it would be fun to share a little bit with you.  As a part of the care package, we sent a photo album with pictures of our family life at home and of the time we spent together in Ethiopia.