I Dream of Elmo

Not sure how the Elmo card from Bibi and Babu ended up in Damon’s bed, but it made for a cute picture! Every night when we put the kids to bed we are grateful to be the parents of such amazing kids. And that no matter how stressful the current situation is, these are special moments that we will always treasure as our kids grow big enough to kick our butts. Damon won't always think that every animal other than his stuffed monkey is called "Elmo". And we'll probably miss it.

Many have asked what the news from a week ago meant, re: our American friends whose adoption was completed successfully. They had only the standard required documentation from US-CIS, which is the same documentation that we started with in July 2007. So, we are hoping that all the legal technicalities pertaining to US adoptions can be resolved pursuant to our matter. If this happens, then future adoptive parents shouldn’t need to jump through unexpected hoops at the last minute. This will free future adoptive parents to focus on the needs of their kids-- giving them the medical, social, and educational attention that they require. We are very optimistic that this young international program is turning a corner, and if this happens, then the kids will be the beneficiaries!

There are two primary differences between us and Donna. First is that we are younger, and second is that we don’t have any previous children. As you know, these are the root concerns initially expressed. So, we need to find ways to build TRUST. Not only trust in the courtroom; it is imperative that we find ways to continue building trust with the Kenyan government long after we return to America. More on that later…maybe some of you have ideas to help us build trust? Please share if you do.

Thanks for all of the emails and comments letting us know who you are and where you are from. It was neat to read some personal stories about how you got connected with our kids and where you are on your own life’s journey. We are saving all of this info, and it will be cool to give it to our kids some day! If you haven’t sent us an email or a comment yet (per Saturday’s blog), we would be grateful if you have a moment to do so. It is Tuesday morning; countdown to the hearing is now 3 days! Asante sana.