Christmas Week

We have had a wonderful week celebrating and enjoying time together.  On Saturday the 22, we went to Dallas for the day.  We went to meet my sweet brand new niece, Brock, and spent a few minutes with her family before heading to Troy's family Christmas party that evening.  It was great that Troy's Dad was able to be there (someone was able to come and take care of Troy's Mom for the evening).  We had two new little faces this year, Liam (11mos) and Landry (5mos).  We were excited to also meet some other new friends.

We had a traditional Christmas Eve, we went to church services with my family and then out for Japanese food.  The food was great and the kids really enjoyed it, they love to spend time with their cousins.   It is hard to believe how big they all are.  They were able to all sit at their own table and now Caitlin is big enough that she chooses to sit with the adults.

We spent most of Christmas day at home.  Our kids all have a slumber party on Christmas Eve, and they did not wake up until I went to get them at  7:00.  Later in the day we went to my parents house for dinner.

On Thursday, Colton turned 6.  He is so cute.  He came into our room at around 7, dressed in full football uniform (pads, helmet, everything)  First words out were "I'm 6 now"  Sweet little boy, I guess he has already learned that he has to remind us of his birthday. 

Hopefully, next year, we will have one more day to celebrate during the busy Christmas week.  Steven's birthday is December 21...we hope that we get to celebrate his birthday with him from now on!

Other adoption news, we are waiting for our homestudy to be finalized.  When we get it back we will be sending our I800 in.  Troy is headed to Dallas on friday for the Cottonbowl and I am hoping he can hand deliver it.  We are estimating that our first trip to meet Steven will be in about 12 weeks.

Financially, the total estimate for adoption from this country is about $25,000.  We have already paid  $6,000.  Before we travel, we will need about $12,000 more.  This amount will be to pay the agency fees (second payment is $5,500 and travel expenses).  We are hoping that you can help.  This is a tax-deductible donation.  When you think about it, If we could get 120 people to donate just $100, we would have enough for the trip, or If we could get 190 to donate $100, our adoption would be paid.  Thanks to each of you who have already contributed and are helping us to answer our calling to adopt Steven!