A rut then a bump

Just a quick post to vent some major frustration before heading off to Peoria for running group.  After going through a long period of lacking motivation and getting discouraged through the paperwork process, I was starting to get back on track by sending some more documents in and collaborating with our social worker again.  However, my physical exam was not approved due to the fact that my physician used a notary who's commission expires in less than 2 months.  So now the whole form needs to be redone and I have to inform my doctor that the notary has to have a commission valid for at least 1-2 more years.  After having a little crying spell and feeling sorry for myself, I'm trying to remember that life could be so much worse.  Yes, it is a pain in the rear to redo this again, but I just have to move forward.  I could take it as a bad sign, but I choose to look at it as just another bump in the road of this really long journey.  God's grace and mercy will get me through this, but I have to remember to trust Him.  I often forget that.  Until you actually try to adopt someone, you will never really understand how much time and paperwork goes into the process.  I'm not going to lie, it's a lot harder than I thought it was going to be.  Praying that I can get over this bump and move on.  Thankful for the sunny day....going to get out there and enjoy it!

Papers, Papers, Papers

Can't believe it has been over a month since I made an entry.  Not much new to report other than we are in the middle of all the paperwork STILL!  Our social worker Jill has made 3 home visits so far, we have been fingerprinted, had our physicals, TB tests, and most legal documents scanned and sent for review.  Everything has to be notarized, scanned and emailed to have our family coordinator review/approve.  Just when I think I am getting closer to having most of the paperwork done, I remember something else on the checklist or am just waiting for something sent off to come back. This has been a really frustrating and time consuming period.  It seems like the past month has been extra busy for us, so trying to get paperwork done on top of it has been stressful.  There have been times I've just wanted to throw in the towel.  God somehow reminds me each time what an incredible opportunity he has presented us with.  I follow our agency's Facebook page and blog and am reminded with other families' stories of why we are doing this.  I truly believe we need a child as much as she needs us.  I just keep praying for God to help us keep the end result in sight.  I just get discouraged wondering when I will ever officially be done paper chasing and then knowing I will have a long waiting period for an actual referral to follow.  I am so thankful for where we are at in this journey, but it is not easy.  I am guilty of expecting everything to go fast and perfect, but I know God is teaching me more patience in this process.  Hopefully, by the time I blog again, I will have a better idea of where I am at in the paper chasing.  I really have had to step away for about a week, pray, spend less time stressing over it, and prioritize other things happening in our schedule in order to keep myself sane.  My goal is to start refreshed again tomorrow and conquer that checklist again.  Prayers are greatly appreciated.