Six weeks ago today, I dropped off a binder at the US Embassy in Kinshasa, hopeful that would speed the process up a bit. It still could, as they quoted the process could be between three to six months, and we could receive notice any day. But, in all honesty, it could be six more weeks.
This season of waiting has been a bit weird for me. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of JP several times. I wonder what he may think about a certain ride at Six Flags (which we enjoyed today), how he might react to Kate and Watson's silly antics (I think he will fit right in), and whether I need to go ahead and sign him up for swimming lessons (I really hope so!). I can't wait to experience life through his eyes and to make him a part of our family. I have already been sad that a family wedding, Spring Break and now Easter have passed without him here.
But, knowing that we have a finite time of waiting has also made me just rest in God's timing. While the payoff of adding him to our family is a million times better than not, our lives will change a little. There are four of us--in a booth, on an amusement park ride, in a hotel room--no one is ever left out. Our kiddos throw plenty of tantrums, but we know how to handle them pretty well. Kate and Watson don't remember life without one another, and they have a really sweet friendship. In the upcoming months, there will be a season where this balance is off a little, as we integrate JP into our family and lives.
I have a friend who is expecting in a few weeks, and she has one little boy. When I asked if she was ready, she said, "I am trying to just enjoy these last few weeks with my little boy before the baby comes." I remember that feeling when Watson came, and I kind of feel that way now. Confident that the wait will soon be over, so comfortable relishing in the sweet moments now.
So, that's where we are. Sorry not much news, but I think this is an honest part of adoption. Prayerful that the next time we blog, it will be really exciting. Wishing you and yours a blessed Easter weekend. Love to you all!
