so far to find you {court trip days 4-5}

we were waiting and praying

and longing to bring you home

Our first official family photo after court! 

 Day 4: We started the day with pancakes, toast, and pineapple juice, then left to see our boy and start our day that would make us officially parents! We spent some time playing with Eliyas that morning, then left for lunch...and eventually court. Something you should know about Ethiopia...there is a thing we call, "Ethiopia time." We have quickly found out what hurried, rushed, and planned lives we live. Because here, a plan is meant to be changed, a schedule isn't a big deal, and if you're supposed to be at court at a certain time, it's not a problem if you're late. I was trying to get a plan nailed down with our guide on this day, explaining that if plan A couldn't be confirmed then we would just go with plan B... his response that we have since heard a few times more, "only heaven knows." 

and then we saw your face

in a moment you were wrapped up in our hearts

The last week has been such a whirlwind I honestly can't remember what time we were supposed to be at court or what time we arrived, (for those of you who know me and my memory...this is a strange occurrence) but I know I was panicking that we were late and we were going to have missed our appointment! We made it up the stairs to the third floor into this waiting room with a bunch of people. Thankfully, we got the hook-up with our agency, or maybe because the orphanage started with an "A", but we were called back immediately and we were out of there in no more than 10 minutes! It was very unofficial seeming for such an official thing... probably the easiest part of the whole process so far! We went in the room with the other AWAA families that had the same court date, the judge asked us all a few questions, and before we knew it she said something to the extent of, "Congratulations, your children are yours!" Some of the most beautiful words we have ever heard! I couldn't hold back tears of joy (there's been lots of those on this trip!) at the thought of our official forever family.

we took a step of faith 

and now here we are

We spent some more time with our son after court, telling him over and over we were officially a family and he was officially our son. A forever family. How I wish I could erase the hurt, pain, and tears from his past and future. Thankful that we have a Father who comforts and holds his heart in His hands. I am quickly being taught that as much as I think I can protect and comfort him, I will fail. So thankful for a God who will never fail him.

will you let me hold you in my arms tonight

i have come so far to find you

so far to find you

We also learned a lot about Eliyas on this day. Some things that were painful to hear, and some things that made my heart soar. We had quickly learned over the last 3 days how smart, caring, mature, easy-going, and loving he was. But to have all of these wonderful characteristics plus lots more confirmed by an outsider who has known him for the last year was so wonderful to hear. We learned he wants to be a doctor when he grows up and his favorite subjects are Environmental Science and English. (He continues to impress us with his English day by day!) We have been told by multiple people on this trip, "You are so lucky." We really are. We are truly blessed by how God has graciously allowed us to be this amazing boy's parents. 

from a world away, i journeyed

just to hold your hand

Day 5: Since we passed court and were officially a family, we were allowed to take Eliyas on an outing! We went to Entoto Mountain and took a tour of something historical. (I honestly couldn't tell you what it was exactly...apparently my brain is kind of mush at this point!) The important thing is we had a beautiful view of Addis and most importantly, we got to spend some special time with our boy!!! It was amazing how easy it was...it was as if we have been doing this for years. So natural, and so wonderful. We went to lunch at one of our favorite places so far, Island Breeze, where Eliyas made quick friends with Eli! Eli and his family are here for court to bring 2 new brothers into their family! We were encouraged that he connected so quickly with someone new that didn't speak his language. They have had a blast together ever since.

you will never be alone again

i've come so far to find you

so far to find you

That's all I've got for tonight... I will try to get the rest of the days out soon. The bottom line is that we are loving life as a family of 3, learning every day, and trusting in the Lord for His timing and His will. We appreciate your continued prayers. Some of the hardest days are ahead and we are leaning on God for strength! 


Zephaniah 3:17The Lord your God is in your midst,

    a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
    he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing

**lyrics from Casting Crowns' "So Far to Find You"