Thursday, December 23, 2010

Merry Christmas Ava Grace!

I just realized its already Christmas Eve in China, as they are 12 hours ahead of us here in the US.  I want so much to tell Ava Grace "Merry Christmas"!  Our hope in YOU is the best Christmas present we could ask for this year.  I can only imagine now what life will be like next Christmas at our house, with bellows of laughter from all three kids.

We have faith that we will bring Ava into our home by this summer.  Please pray with us that all goes quickly so we can do that, as its difficult to know that she's in an orphanage without us, her family, this Christmas.  They do not celebrate Christ's birth in China, as there are few Christians there.  Sometimes they even persecute Christians in China, so also pray for the country to be reached for Jesus Christ.  Pray for the safety of missionaries there.

Our fingerprint appointment is January 11, and those will be sent to the US Immigration Service to apply for a visa for Ava.  That's the last step we have to take!!!  Praise the Lord, for He is good, and His love endures forever.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

We have a name!!

So following much prayer, indecisiveness, and more prayers and talks with Joey and our boys, we have picked a name for our daughter!  We can't wait to welcome Ava Grace to our family.  I think of you every day, Ava Grace, and can't wait to squeeze you.  Collin is here with me this morning and says, "I can't wait 'til we get her so we can give her a new bear and blankie.  She'll be able snuggle up in her bed."


We are making Christmas cookies today, and this will be our last time doing this without her here with us :)  Thank you, Lord, for guiding us to Ava Grace.  We love her so much already ....