Where we are…

We got some big news on our Anniversary this past week:  The final American step in our adoption process was complete!  Yea!  The last step before buying plane tickets is getting the final thumbs up from China, which could come as early next week.  

Flora Lin!

Charlotte is rocking those shoes!

There is a slim but very real possibility we could leave at the end of October!!!!  If not, it will probably be early to mid November.  We are so excited to finally be at this stage in the long journey.

But we are a little short!

Here is the bottom line:  We need to come up with about $10,000 more to cover our travel expenses related to our adoption.  Almost a year ago we thought we were completely funded.   

What happened? 

Our process was delayed for no apparent reason, which resulted in having to have a Homestudy update and more documents getting FedEx’ed back and forth.  Prices have increased.  New Fees have crept into the guidelines.  Airfare is more expensive.  Our children are now too old for lap passes on airplanes; they need their own seats.  There have been some changes in the two years we have been in this process.  We’ve had some unexpected expenses that have come up that have drained our reserves.

Though we only have about a month, we are not deterred.  We have seen God’s hand move mountains through our adoption journey.  He has already shown us in so many ways that He will lead, support and care for our family as we continue to move forward.

How can you help?

First, please understand that we do not expect monetary gifts from you, dear family and friends.  You all have already gone above and beyond what we could have ever dreamed up or asked!!!

Second, know that we are doing what we can to help ourselves.  We are cutting back in every way possible with our own expenses.  Michelle has gone back to work as a substitute teacher.  Whatever items that we can sell, we are (not quite ready to sell the horses yet, though!) selling at yard sales and online.

Here are some ways to help (some don’t cost you anything!).

• Pray – This is number one on the list because it is most important and something we don’t take for granted.  Please pray for our daughters, first of all.  Pray that they would stay healthy and safe until we bring them home.  Pray that they are as prepared as possible for the enormous changes that are about to happen.  They are about to lose everything they have ever known.  Pray for us as we prepare to be parents for the first time.  Pray for the remaining funds to come in.
• We are both willing and eager to do odd jobs to earn some extra money.  Contact us if you know of an opportunity.
• Take part in the American Girl Doll Giveaway we are doing.  See HERE for more info.
• Only if you feel lead to, donate – You can donate online by clicking the Donate button on the right or mailing a check (email goteamsam@gmail.com for the address).  Please click HERE to see how we are recognizing those who have helped us with our adoption expenses!
• Tell others about what we are doing.  Spread the word to your friends and contacts!

Friends and family – we thank you for all that you have done for us.  It has been a long journey to get to this point, and we know there is a long road ahead for us as a family.  We desperately want to get our girls home as soon as we can so they can get the medical care they need and start the healing process.  

Thank you for helping our family.