UPDATE ON THE SCENE

OH MAN, we are really kickin this adoption action into high gear. We knew there would be a lot to do but who knew there would be so many hoops to jump through. Right now we are just trying to get the mess of paperwork needed to get on the wait list to see our baby. Here is a run down of what we have done so far:

12/09- Sent in application to All God's Children

• this included all kinds of legal mumbo jumbo, about 10 different documents to be notarized (thank goodness Montana still does free notaries at the bank), statements and of course a large amount of $$

12/09- Got Approved and received our Orientation Packet

• More notarized documents
• Orientation phone call with our Case Manager

12/09- Homestudy Application

• More $$
• More documents
• and you guessed it more notary action

01/2010 FBI and Department of Justice Fingerprinting

• Sent in Child abuse clearances to Utah, AZ, New York (holla to all those who helped Chantel find all of the addresses she has ever lived at for the last 28 years....a bit much? I think so) , Canada and they are trying to figure out if I abused anyone in the Czech Republic while on my mission
• Requested copies of marriage license and birth certificates

01/08/2010- Completed 6 two hour education classes on Adoption issues

01/14/2010 Criminal Checks at the Temecula Police Station

1/14/10- 1st Homestudy

• Met our Social Worker, went over documents, signed more legal mumbo jumbo, Chantel talked like a crazy lady(you know how she gets when she is nervous) and of course more $$

So that seems like a lot and I think we are even forgetting some stuff. Right now we are working on our Dossier which is the official packet that will go to Ethiopia for approval. We have 2 more Homestudies to complete as well. Chantel is especially excited for these, since the next one is a 1.5 hour individual interview where they grill you on all things adoption.

You may have also noticed that the theme so far has been getting things notarized and paying fees. As awkward for us as it is, we have also added a Donate button to our blog, this is the only way to make the adoption possible for us at this time. We appreciate so much the ideas on fundraising and those that have offered to help. Also thanks to those that are filling out recommnedation letters, we owe ya.