Waiting!

I haven't posted for a while, not sure what to say!  Life has been passing by, the Lord has been challenging me in new ways, we welcomed a new baby niece to the family, new stages with the kids, been trying to get some projects done, sickness has reared its ugly face, etc etc...the days 'full of life' just keep going by.  Even as life busily passes by, though, my mind is not far from thoughts of Emma.  Although, I don't resemble an expectant mother, I am.  Nesting away, packing my bags, organizing and sorting, picking out special things for my girl.  She is a treasure that I anxiously await the opportunity to hold, cuddle, feed, lose sleep over, and share with those who love us.  I am so blessed by people in my life that share my excitement, ask me how I am doing, what the progress and time-line are.  It is supportive people around me that are keeping me going, as we wait! 

Currently, we are one week into our wait for TA (travel approval).  This is the last thread of paperwork that has to come before we are allowed to travel to China and pick up Emma.  I understand there is more paperwork once there...but who cares, she will be in my arms while I do it!  I am praying for our TA to come in the coming week before the Chinese New Year celebration, which closes down the Chinese offices for the week.  TA wait is listed as 2-4 weeks, so it is entirely possible that is could come this week.  Trusting, as always, the Lord's perfect timing for this!  A special gift of encouragement this week has been some new pictures of Emma.  A friend I have met through AWAA (our adoption agency) is currently in China, adopting her son, and her family requested a (not usually granted) visit to the orphanage where their son and Emma have lived most of their lives.  God opened the doors for them to go, and not only did they see the orphanage, but with picture in hand of Emma, sought her out for me!  My friend even got to hold Emma and whisper sweet promises of love from her Mommy, for me.  The tears flowed as I looked at the pictures.  I am so blessed that against all odds they were able to find her in an orphanage of 300 children, and not only find her but love on her and take pictures!  Thanks Sarah!  I will forever be grateful! :) Thank you, Lord, for so much affirmation of Your plan in our lives!  Here are a couple pictures of my sweet girl. 

As we wait these final weeks, that we can almost count in days, I am trying to prepare as much around here as we can.  Beth is now a true big sister...sleeping in a big girl bed, downstairs with Ashley.  No more crib for her.  The crib is all freshened up and scrubbed clean for Emma.  Clothes are all moved and sorted.  It is fun to see the kids get so excited for Emma to come, praying for her, shopping for her, and giving up their space for her, too.

Happy Bunk Bed Sisters! 

 

 

All ready and waiting for you to come Emma Grace Morgan!

 

 ..and one last shot, just keeping it real around here...never a dull moment!  Matt missed the picture because he was busy 'trying on' the other safety cone that was as tall as him.  Lowes will never be the same, I am sure!