Surreal and yet so real.....

The moment we had been waiting for finally arrived.   Our little girl was brought to us at our hotel by her foster mother and the co-worker of our adoption power of attorney.   We expected them at 3pm but they were delayed in leaving their city and with the 3-4 hour drive were about 2 1/2 hours later (it was hard to find things to occupy our minds during that extra time).   The phone rang and they were here.   Walking hand in hand to meet the newest addition to our family we prayed that the meeting (and separation) wouldn't be too traumatic for her.   We were very pleasantly suprised that she did not shrink away or seem unhappy (at first).  We enjoyed almost two hours of reserved smiles, looking at pictures of her soon to be siblings, and even a little FaceTime chats with the other kids and new auntie.   During dinner time we started to see the sad face appear and the requests for her "Mommy."  Bed time was very hard but Becky performed like a seasoned pro and she is now sound asleep in the middle if the bed (for how long we shall see).

What a gift from God!  The title of the post speaks to the almost unreal (or surreal) feelings we are having coupled with the very real child that just hours ago was a single picture attached to very little information.

Our court date was switched from next Tuesday to Thursday (the 18th) which is the day before we are scheduled to leave the country.

Please continue to pray for us (we are so greatful).  Specifically we'd ask that you pray for the days (and nights) ahead when our beautiful daughter is in our care (that she would experience our love for her, that bonding would begin and grow, and that the absence from her current "family" would not be too painful).  Please also pray that Becky and I are able to get the rest needed - it's been a busy trip so far and reserves are a little low at this point.  Prayers for a successful day in court are a very high priority.  And, finally, please cover our children at home (and Elizabeth on her mission trip in the Dominican Republic) with your prayers as well.

Thank you for joining us on this journey.  There are many miles ahead but your company and support make all the difference.

With love,
-Jay and Becky