A slower pace of life...

We're happily installed in our little Maine camp - with basic internet, no tv, and a tranquil lake vista out the back windows.   The kids swim, fish, and kayak all day, and we do lots of reading and visiting family. :)  There's not much time for that during the year with our hectic schedules, so this is a welcome change of pace.  On the adoption front, we have nothing to do other than wait for China to "log us in" and then count the days until LOA.  It's a nice break in routine with nothing on the calendar except strawberry and raspberry picking!  Looking forward to a restful summer and following all my friends on their China adventures.  Blessings, Kim

APPROVED!!!!!!

WOOHOO!  We're I800A approved by USCIS, so a few more notarizations, certifications, and authentications of two pieces of paper, and our paperwork is off to China!  Then we start the wait in line there...  Great thanks to our AWESOME USCIS officer and Social Worker who gave us great advice and got things done!! 

Ballerinas!!

Today was the spring recital and Katie and Rachel had a great time.  We were surprised at the end of the program to see Rachel receive an award!  While girls came up for "best in ballet, tap, and other,"  Rachel was invited up to receive the award for kindness and helpfulness in the community and the studio.  We were so proud of her!  She has a servant's heart and always volunteers to help others.  As we study the book of Matthew this week, God has given me a girl who teaches me the meaning of the verse, "He who humbles himself will be exalted."  God knows what He's doing when he puts families together. :)  Blessings, Kim

Summer AND paperwork fun!!

We had a great time this week getting together with some fellow adoptive families here in Charleston.  The local USCIS office is here, so everyone has to come through Charleston for fingerprints!  Sharon, Angie, Jennifer, and Annie (Wonderful Waiting Kids blog) all stopped by Daniel Island and it was fun putting a face with all these internet friends.   We all share the same love for these kids and are committed to helping as many as possible find loving families. 

We also were blessed with a TERRIFIC USCIS officer this week who gave us good advice about proceeding with paperwork as our boys turn 18.  I promise to pass it all along to reduce her phone calls!  It's so wonderful when folks in charge show they care - what a difference it can make for a child (and a mom!)  Also, Senator Demint's office was so helpful in tracking down our addendum - he needs to give "Kati" in his office a raise.  Vote for this guy - he knows how to hire competent and efficient people - a necessity for someone in office.  All I got from Senator Graham was "thanks for your interest in border security."  What?!? 

This has been a crazy adoption with lots of twists and turns so far - I can only imagine what's yet in store, lol!  God is good - and He's never boring.  Blessings, Kim