So close we can almost taste it...

I can not believe we're finally able to say this but...to the best of my knowledge (after extensive blog and discussion board stalking !!!) we are at the top of the list for a referral of an infant.  Actually, we're tied for the spot of who's been waiting the longest...which actually is great news because that means that the likelihood of getting a referral soon is starting to feel more like a reality than a far off dream.   Last Thursday, we learned of a referral for a 12 month old and then Friday while on the road to Wes' parents I learned of another referral for an 11 month old.  So- we're at the top!!!  We've watched our names slowly, slowly, slowly creep up the list.  A year ago we were on the 'working on formal application/homestudy' section.  Now, we're at the top of the pile!  Now- we've got to keep our expectations and hopes in check.  Those last 2 referrals took over 6 weeks to see any movement.  Others may jump ahead of us and we may still have awhile.  We see this as God's way of saying 'on your mark, get set...'   We're just waiting and praying that He'll say 'GO' very soon!!! 

OR

In the meantime, suddenly the suspense of knowing if Baby Roth's a boy or girl is just killing me!  So, just for the fun of it- what do you think?  I'd love to hear your guess- so, cast your guess today by leaving a comment.  I've got my guess picked but I'm not tellin' : )

Let'er Roll!

This is exactly what my life has felt like for the last month or so.  These past few weeks have been especially busy with things constantly flying past me, needing attention.  Last Friday, I submitted my National Board Teacher Certification box for review and I left for a 6-day state FCCLA adventure the same day as well.  One current state officer, one in-coming state officer, a dozen chapter projects, one workshop, 24 candidate interviews, and a van load of 'stuff' later and well... we're on the down hill roll.  I think the conveyor belt has worn out and its time to call it good 'till next year. 
If only our adoption process could pick up the speed like Ethel and Lucy's chocolate conveyor!!  : ) Ahh, but in the mean time... I think I just need some chocolate! 

Waiting on You

Here we are at eight.  It was eight months ago today that our pile of paperwork took flight for its adventure abroad.  Since then we've been waiting...and waiting....and waiting.  Funny how intricately God knows our hearts-
This morning, I headed out of the house, stopped to pick up my morning Common Cents coffee and headed out for another day of school.  Typically, I just like to ride in the quiet of the morning.  Talking to God, praying and organizing my brain for the day.  The radio was on really quiet but for some reason as I hit the interstate this morning...I turned up the radio.  And God smiled at me : ) It was the song 'Waiting' and the sky above was blue with wispy clouds and fresh morning sunlight was just pouring over the land and my heart was full.  So, very full.

 I'm waiting. I'm waiting on You, Lord.And I am hopeful.I'm waiting on You, Lord. Though it is painful. But patiently, I will wait. I will move ahead, bold and confident. Taking every step in obedience.  While I'mwaiting. I will serve You. While I'm waiting.I will worship. I'm waiting. I'm waiting on You, Lord. And I am peaceful. I'm waiting on You, Lord. Though it's not easy. But faithfully, I will wait. Yes, I will wait. I will serve You while I'm waiting. I will worship while I'm waiting. I will serve You while I'm waiting. I will worship while I'm waiting. I will serve you while I'm waiting. I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord.

 Just another example of God's 'random i-pod'.  This is in a nut-shell where we are in our adoption.  People ask- how are things with your adoption?   And, we say 'waiting'.  One little word but really, we're waiting on the Lord.  Its painful but we're waiting.  We're remaining bold and confidant in the Ethiopian adoption process.  We're walking in obedience while we're waiting.  And, along the way we're worshipping in our waiting.  Or trying our best to accomplish this.  This morning on the way to work it was a Number 6:24-26 encounter with God.  He definitely did shine His face upon me (quite literally actually) and He was gracious in lifting my soul and gave me peace.  And, there were tears of hope and confidence and peace. 

As I drove along, I couldn't help but remember another time God played this song in His random i-pod... my new husband and I were cruising down a gravel road in the G6 late on the night of June 6th just a couple years ago.  We had both waited many years for that day to come and what a blessed, incredible day it was. 

Today, we're at eight.   We're not where we thought we'd be come April but, we're where God wants us to be.  Thank You Jesus for loving us and filling up my heart this morning.  Its gonna be alright- we can't wait to meet you Baby Roth.  Oh, we've been praying and praying and praying for you. In the meantime, we'll be waiting to hear from God just who you are!! : ) Ohhhh, my goodness how we look forward to that day!! : )