Two little books

Of all the documents we received in the mail for this adoption these two have had the MOST impact! Two little books that will take us across the world to meet our little girl...kind of crazy really! Most days, I really don't think much past the tasks at hand (mounds of paperwork, grant applications, etc). I chose not to let my mind wander to what those weeks in China will be like because wandering brings an overwhelming flood of emotions. But these two books were kind of like a wake up call! This is happening...we actually have passports...that will actually be used not for a trip to Fiji or Mexico, but to add a daughter to our family. I have dreamed of this since 1995 and it is ACTUALLY happening! Our daugher, based on the timeline given to us, has already made her debut into this world. Her mother has most likely already made the horrific decision to let her go and she is probably already living in an orphanage. Our daughter...in an orphanage and alone...without us!!! This is why I take it day by day...these thoughts would be enough to fill my day with tears. However, these passports are a LIGHT...a visual encouragement that we are one step closer to holding our baby girl. One step closer to China!

Update

I haven't posted in a while!!! This summer has been so busy. It's hard to believe BACK TO SCHOOL is right around the corner. We have made some great progress despite the craziness these last couple months. While we were in the mountains with my parents our Home Study was finalized and our USCIS filing was sent in. This week we received our receipt from USCIS and we are just waiting on our fingerprint invitation. Once our fingerprints are complete I have read it can take USCIS anywhere from 60-90 days to process our application and approve us as adoptive parents. We also applied for our passports this week and ordered the last of our dossier photos (which you can see here). It's ALL coming together. I hope that everything will be done and in China by October. Currently, we are working on our application for the Show Hope grant-deadline is Aug. 31st. Praying that we might receive some support from that incredible organization!

Not much to report on the fundraising front since our July Poker Tournament. We have been focused on grant applications (which are quite involved) and not feeling super guilty about taking the month off since my friend Celeste Carr has offered to match funds donated through Carpet One in Winter Park up to $1,000.00. Celeste really inspires me...she is one of the most giving and kind ladies...her support has meant so much to us!

If you wish to make a donation WHICH WILL BE MATCHED DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR to our fund please mail a check made out to Carpet One (memo-Peterman Adoption) to:

Carpet One
Attn: Celeste Carr
900 S. Orlando Ave.
Winter Park, FL 32789

You can also drop by that physical address as well if you live in the area.

We are just so thankful for the kindness of others...I will never be able to say that enough. There is no way we could do this on our own (despite our best saving $ efforts).

Next update will hopefully report that our dossier is on its way to CHINA!!