October 4th, 2015 (Sunday):

I’m sitting at the hunting camp right now, making lists, schedules for the children at home, and going over adoption paperwork.  We leave for China in 4 days; yes I questioned the timing of this 48 hour get away.  Lee is archery hunting this weekend and his birthday is in 2 days so I decided to surprise him.  I’m so thankful I did as he is outside moving the tree stand; I’ve had time to conquer my list.  One of which was catching up on my journal.  God also knew I needed this quiet time before we leave.  The last couple months have been one of ups and downs in this busy season of life.  I’ve just come to realize that is part of the adoption process.  We were hoping to have our I800 approvals beginning of July and they came more than a month later.  We needed to file an addendum due to our home study showing we were adopting a 6-10 year old and when we filed for LiLi she was just shy of 6.  Then there was the call 3 weeks ago on a Monday can you leave Saturday.  I was in panic excitement mode but said sure.  Each day that week was one more disappointment, too many holidays, so we couldn’t get the required days in her province before heading to the consulate in Guangzou, expensive flights, and a huge trade show making hotels double the cost.  Waiting is another huge part of adoption.  I’ve learned I have no patience.  I’d check emails 20X a day looking for our dates to travel.  Finally the email came and all the civil affair appointments in her province, medical visits and the consulate appointment were scheduled and we had travel dates of Oct.  8 - Oct. 21.  Looking back once again I say to myself why I didn’t trust God, as he knew the perfect timing.  Leaving in mid-October allowed Kate to get a good start at school before being pulled out for two weeks, I was able to peacefully get ready for our travels, and I’m only missing one week of Cody’s soccer season.  God is so good!  HERE WE COME CHINA…