Finally- some news!!!

We are so happy to be able to post with some news! Besides being over the moon about getting to visit Stanley this upcoming weekend (!!!), we got some good news this week. During our last trip, we had planned on signing something called a I-600; however, right before we left, we learned that our agency coordinator was recommending having Stanley's DNA test completed before we sign because it would expedite the process at the end. While disapointed, we were assured that this would not add any time to the complete process. Well, since December, there have been many many attempts to get the test done. Stanley's birthmother needed to be present and they had to track her down and get the two of them in Port Au Prince at the same time, schedule an appointment, and hope that the government labs didn't decide to close on that day. Long story short, after four months of waiting to hear that it was done- we got word on Friday that it is! Basically, if all goes well, we will be able to sign next Tuesday at 11 AM. Another step down.

As far as IBESR (the long stage of the process we are in), we got word that Haiti's social services was in the final stages of processing our file. We were asked to send a supplemental letter clarifying our relationship length so we are hopeful that what we sent them suffices. IF we can get out of this stage soon, it is approximately another 6 months until Stanley can come home, BUT at least we will be on our way. So, fingers crossed we get some more good news soon!

As for our trip, we fly to Fort Lauderdale on Friday night and on to Port Au Prince on Saturday morning. Our group is chartering a plane to Les Caye (where the orphanage is) on Saturday and will return to PAP on Tuesday morning (in time for our signing appointment). That means only 2 1/2 days with our little guy but we can't wait!!!

Thanks to those of you who have offered to send stuff down with us for the orphanage- we finally got a list of their latest needs. We don't ever expect people to contribute but if you are interested, let us know. Or, if you want to send us a check, we'll make sure to buy good stuff on your behalf.... As of now, the orphanage is very low on:
* over the counter meds
* cloth diapers
* flip flops
* baby wipes
* peanut butter
* canned meat
* school supplies
* picture books with simple English
* lotion
* hair accessories for girls
* vitamins
* crib sheets
* toys for the babies
* twin bed sheets

Again, please DO NOT feel obligated to do anything! We'll be doing our major shopping Wednesday night.

I'm sure when we get back next Tuesday night, we'll need a few days to decompress and then we'll be sure to upload new pictures! Thanks for following this journey!