What a Wonderful Day!

We woke this morning to the sun shining!  Many of us have joked about the need to build an ark because of all the rain we have had lately.  We have had so much rain in Ohio in the last week and in the forecast for the upcoming week!  Not only was the sun shining, but it was warm and we were able to play outside this morning!  The girls enjoyed the swing set and spending time talking to the cats and horse.

When Doug went to the mailbox, he found a great surprise--Our I171-H.  This document is our official permission to adopt internationally from the United States government.  It states '...you are able to furnish proper care to an orphan...'.  We have been approved to adopt up to 2 children ages 2 months-16 years!  Now the adoption is back to being in our hands. We determine how fast it gets completed and sent to Ukraine for translation and submission!

After lunch, we were able to meet with the Wright family.  Andrea and I have been in contact about the needs of her house and so today we went to look at the house and take a picture of their family.  In the next few weeks, leading up to June 4th, we will begin asking local companies for donations to help us repair and restore Andrea's house.  Doug and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to give back to a member of our community, while raising funds for our adoption.  Our project is through Lifesong for Orphans, Both Hands Project. Without this project, we would not have the funds on our own to adopt our children waiting for us in Ukraine.

Tonight, we stopped to get our girls at Kim & Mike's house.  They were gracious enough to keep the girls while we went out for a few hours.  My sister works for Limited Brands, and had a great surprise waiting for me today--Great small sized lotions, anti-bacterial items, lip gloss, loofahs, and gift bags. All these items for us to take to the orphanages for gifts for the caretakers.  I was so overwhelmed with gratitude.  If I were to purchase these items, it would cost me well over $300.  Now I have all the caretaker, translator gifts we need for our trip!