Bumps in the road, broken cars, and backpacks

It has been an interesting week or so since I have been in touch with you. I received a call early in the week with excellent news about our home study. We have been on pause for about eight weeks because of the the referral that is not set to happen for a very long time. But, our Maine case worker met with her agencies Central Office for a meeting to discuss our case and determine how they wanted to proceed with this adoption. It was decided after much discussion that they would like to continue to work with us but, would need to tweak our contract a bit so that the wording is very specific as to what services they are able to offer to us. So, with that being cleared up, we are hoping to receive that document in a week or so and then we will be able to review our much anticipated home study. We just continue to praise God for His perfect timing. Even though in the midst of the wait, it doesn't feel perfect, we are continuously encouraged by the fact that our Creator has "got this one all planned out."

Our car has kicked the bucket this week. We had a few opportunities to experience our car while overheating. Thankful that we are not in a desert nor were we far from where we could still be helped by friends. We think we have found another automobile that will be a good fit for our family. Interesting story...Randy was down in New Hampshire (he had just dropped me off at the Portland airport) to look at this car that we found through Uncle Henry's. Well, she is a beaut, minus the transmission (a rough shift into second gear) so Randy offered them less and they didn't take it. He leaves feeling very disappointed, but immediately begins to pray for the Lord's will, hoping that they will meet in the middle. About forty five minutes later, Randy gets a call from the little family owned dealership. The owner felt bad that Randy and Gray had driven four hours to look at the car and then asked if they put a new transmission into it, would he still be interested? Ummmmm...God, thank you for clarity. We are hoping to pick up our new addition (the car that is) next weekend if a few more things fall into place.

I am writing this post from Las Vegas, hence the airport drop-off. I am visiting my folks, taking in some mountain views, and eating...often. I am relaxing, reading, and jogging in an attempt to prepare for the next leg of the adoption process. We still have a long road ahead of us before we meet our little girl, and then a lifetime of adventure after we bring her home. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We feel blessed to have each of you walking alongside us as we continue to hike uphill.