Getting Close

Only a few more days til we fly out for Ethiopia! Hard to believe it's finally time! It's been a long process with quite a few unexpected issues and delays, but God is good and has dealt well with us His children, as always. In fact, He's graciously allowed us to see the benefit of some of the frustrating delays. With our unexpected move to Colorado and some significant health issues in the family, we would not have been ready for little Kayla back in October/November of last year.

Packing is well underway. Gary's last day of work before the trip is today. Jamie's family arrives today. Paperwork is nearly complete. The many lists are showing lots of marked out items. Can't wait to go!

I was thinking about finances again today. Yeah, I like numbers - sorry. International adoption is a very expensive endeavor. It's been humbling to see how God has provided money in truly unexpected ways. Surely there is nothing on this earth that can limit Him in the slightest! We have received an economic stimulus, reimbursement from a doctor for overcharging, cash moving incentive from my job, big company bonus, significant rental deposit return from a stingy landlord, larger than expected federal and state income tax returns, approximately $500/month lower housing expenses due to our move. All totaling roughly $13,000. We will also get the $12,000 adoption tax credit on this year's taxes. Do the math. Amazing. Really amazing.

We do have a few prayer requests for any who would be willing to love us in this way...

- That our good God would continue to be honored in this process, and that we Gilchrists would have the wisdom and courage to make Him look good in the eyes of all who ask us about why we are doing what we are doing.
- For travel safety. There are many around the world who hate Americans and Christians. We really don't want to "make the news".
- Health, especially for Jamie.
- Grace for Bryant and Lana to do well while Mommy and Daddy are gone... and for Mommy and Daddy, who will probably be bawling as we drive off without them.
- Grace for little Kayla to adjust to us and learn to trust us.
- And last, but, well, probably least... Gary has been terrified from the beginning of the whole process of having a screaming kid for 20 hours of plane flights on the return trip... Please, Lord, make her sleep!!!