AWESOME!

I heard a pastor preach how the word "awesome" should really be reserved to use only in reference to God.  I actually have tried to stop using the word except in reference to God because it made sense.  Today we can honestly say that we witnessed the word Awesome in its fullest! 

Kelly and I were truly in Awe as we sat before a board of nine Ukrainian directors who thanked us for our kindness toward their children and after several questions honored our request to adopt Mariia and for her brother Kiril to be able to go with the family he wishes (The Charbonneau's).  As you know, we were told our odds were not favorable that this would happen...however God could care less about odds!

Thank you for all who prayed so hard for us and we are humbled by the amount of messages we received from those supporting us in prayer.  God heard those prayers and His will was done today!

I am sure some are curious as to the events that transpired as not many have been through Ukrainian Social Services so I allow me to back up now that credit has Rightfully been given...

(this is long but many have asked)

We woke up this morning feeling settled in the fact that we had done our part.  We were still nervous and a little scared (okay a lot scared) but had to leave it Upstairs at this point.  Today was ironically the day that the group from New Horizons for Children was stopping here at the orphanage to interview the Christmas hosting children.  Our appointment this afternoon was not until 2pm, so we walked over to the orphanage in the late morning to visit the team.  Upon entering the orphanage, we ran into the director of NHFC, Lee Anne.  She greeted us and then told us some very upsetting news about the program.  It appears that the orphanage director decided to severely limit the kids participating in hosting this session partly because of our "case".  This was and still is very concerning but we understand that we really are only a part of the issue.  For protection of the program, I will not go into details.  I will say that the positive side is that the program has been a little too successful in getting people involved and interested in adopting orphaned children from here...many kids have found forever families in America.

At this point, Kelly and I thought we hit a new low in the valley.  We walked back to the apartment and received a call from Tanya soon after we arrived.  She said they now wanted both children to attend the meeting and face the board.  We were taken back as this seemed crazy and almost abusive.  Dazed but faithful, we met Tanya and rode to the office.  The kids were already there with one of their caretakers.  Mariia and Kiril were obviously scared...not sure what was going through their young minds. 

Coincidentally, another American couple was at the office for an appointment with the board as well.  Kevin and Stephanie just arrived from Kiev on the same train as we had last Friday.  It was great to have another couple (yet again) there with us that we could actually communicate with.  They are adopting a 13 year old boy who they hosted as well through NHFC.  All of us crowded outside the office door along with a few other Ukrainian couples.  They called Mariia and Kiril in first with out us.  They returned five minutes later and then we were called in with out them.  Some of the questions:  What is your job?  How old are you?  Do you live in a house or apartment?  Do you have a swimming pool (not sure if this lady was looking for a vacation spot or uncovering a safety concern)?  How do your kids feel about Mariia?  Will you make a strong effort to keep Kiril and Mariia in contact (need a place at the Jersey shore next summer Stephan)?

The board was very non-threatening and quite friendly overall.  After we got done with our questions, they sent us out and then called everyone back into the room to tell us of their approval.  It was emotional for all involved.  Kiril was especially brave and mature way beyond his years.  Stephan and Noelle should be proud of their future son!

We left the building and prayed with Kevin and Stephanie standing at the steps leading to the building.  I was in Awe...can say it no better way!

We spent the rest of the evening at the orphanage with Mariia.  We got to know Kevin and Stephanie better over pizza - a food poisoning free approved meal. 

Jake, Mark, Nicholas and Brooke all spoke to us on Skype tonight.  They just got back from school and it was great to hear their voices and see their faces.   Nicholas and Brooke were getting ready for crazy hair night at AWANA.  Mark said is was a hang out night since he didn't have much homework to do and Mom is not there to drag him to the gym.  Jake is helping at AWANA and only had a few problems of math to do - his favorite subject! :)  We continue to miss them very much!  As tough as the last 72 hours have been emotionally, not being with them for over a week now has been a constant drain.  Please continue to pray for them and also for us as we still have another 10 days or so here... Mama really misses her babies and this is a long time. 

We should have much less drama to post going forward and I will once again try to focus on pictures. 

God is Awesome!