Today, I was really starting to feel the weight of the paperwork. There is just so much to do. And so much to redo. The level of perfection is something I am not usually asked to try and reach.
I feel the ache of a mother who is far away from her little one. I have enjoyed the paperwork. It gives me something to DO. Something I can do for her. I can't rock her to sleep, yet. I can't kiss her tummy when I change her diaper, yet. Paperwork is something I can do for her now. But, today it's felt pointless and slow. Even though this adoption is moving at light speed, today I felt weary.
Then I opened the mail...my passport!!! This means we can apply for our immigration (the paper that takes 6-8 weeks to get back). It's what will take the longest since we are done with our home study and nearly done with the dossier. I am so excited! I will mail it off on Monday. It felt like a jolt of caffeine that came right on the day I was feeling down.
Speaking of Monday, I am making a day trip to Austin to have some paperwork apostilled. The way I understand it, it's the state's version of a notary. This is the first trip. I'm not sure how many more I have before me. I am so grateful that we live 2 hours away. I don't have to mail it off and wait for it.
I am grateful for so many things. The dossier prep team at Reece's Rainbow, a group of moms volunteering their time, feel the same urgency I do. They are pushing me just as hard as I am pushing myself. I love that they want my little Alice to be home as much...well, maybe not as much...as I do.
Today is a good day. This weekend will be filled with more paperwork (my current version of rocking her to sleep). We are closer and closer. Soon, I won't have to substitute. Soon, we'll have the real thing.
It is a roller coaster, but it's also neat to see God's provision and granting you the grace needed to continue the process. What a great way to think about this stage! We went to Austin a total of 4 times. As you said, it's all worth it and, looking back, all of the paperwork seems like a dream. We're praying for you. Don't forget to bring change for the parking meter and the capital is right across the street if there's time and interest. After you get your visitor badge from security, take the elevator to ground floor and the lady there is really nice. -chad
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog, and I love your story so far! I'll be following...
ReplyDeleteWoohoo! Road trip! Great news!
ReplyDeleteI remember that feeling so well...the weight of paperwork needing to be done and the joy of papers arriving completed. We continue to pray for the Lord's favor on your family as you navigate this process. We are so grateful that you are taking the time to chronicle your journey and share it. You will be so glad that you did years after Alice is home.
ReplyDeleteWe have made that trip to Austin a number of times--it's a nice drive. ;)