Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Timing is Everything and the Hardest thing!

As I have mentioned before, our adoption process is a long one. Many have asked what the timeframe and process is. It is definitely not set in stone and has lots of variables that can affect it drastically, but here is a general overview of our steps and timetable.

Selection of Agency
Agency Application
Acceptance into Ethiopia Program-3-4 days
Home Study (Lots of paperwork, interviews, educational classes, and a home evaluation)-6-8wks.
Immigration Application/Fingerprinting-about 8 wks (WE ARE HERE-our immigration app was turned in last week)
Dossier (A LOT more paperwork!!!!)-6-9months
Referral of Child-6-8wks
1st Ethiopian trip (Meet our child and go to court for adoption proceedings)
Unfortunately we have to return to the US without our baby (Part I am most nervous about)
8-12wks later
2nd Ethiopian trip-Embassy clearance and Bring baby home!!!!
This entire process takes 1-2 years-that is quite a time range, huh?! So right now we have about 7 wks before we get our immigration approval. Our  Dossier is almost complete just a couple more things to add. It will be ready and waiting when we get out approval, then the LONG wait until we have our child referral.
We would really appreciate your prayers for the Ethiopian gov't right now. There are some major changes in the area that handles adoption.We want everything done in a concise, but ethical manner that is in the best interest of all orphaned children there. They have 4.6 MILLION orphans in Ethiopia.
Thank you all so very much for your support, love, and prayers!

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