Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Birth Certificate... again

Hi everyone. I'm here. I've got a lot to catch you up on, so get comfy. It ends well, though we are not PINK yet. It all is working out though... okay, the story:

Last week we were expecting to here that Luciana's DNA sample had made it to Lab Corp, and then we would be hearing soon that we had an embassy appointment (PINK). I was in daily contact with Pat at Lab Corp, and we were both very concerned that the sample had not arrived.

By Friday, I was very concerned. (Read: total mess!) I left several messages and emails with our agency stating my concern. While preparing to head out to a H.S. basketball game where Sam's team would be performing the half time show, I noticed an email from our agency. It was not good news.

Apparently, there had been a miscommunication. Luciana had not been taken to have her 2nd DNA done. In fact, we did not even have DNA authorization or passport yet. I was beside myself. And, had to go to the basketball game... not good.

The following day Keith and I began to prepare for Sam and I to go to Guatemala to be with Luciana and had hopes that my presence would move things along. At least we would be there and know what was going on. That same day, we learned that we also did not have Birth Certificate. That was the hardest blow and I was devastated. I wanted to be angry, and was, but knew that it was a pointless emotion. It wasn't any one's fault. To be honest, I went the gamut of emotions, but I tried to keep my head and to look forward. I am not sure how well I did, but I have lived to tell about it. ;-)

Over the last couple of days, I have been gathering information and making contacts with some truly wonderful people to arrange for Sam and I to head down to Antigua. It is just time to be with Luciana.

We have taken several steps backward, but today we began to step forward again. We learned that we have Birth Certificate... really, we do. (Guatemala City for those who stalk timelines!)
Today, the tears were of joy. Again. Ha! It is so strange to celebrate something we have already celebrated! It's just all part of our story, right?

So, we are moving in the right direction. I feel so much more encouraged. I know many of you have been wondering what was going on, but I just couldn't bring it here until I knew that I could end on a positive note.

Sam and I are still going to go early. Our agency feels like this is a positive choice, and we are really very excited to have this amazing opportunity. I can see so clearly how bonding with my 2 children in Lucy's birth country is all positive. Antigua is a very safe town, and there is a wonderful adoption community there. I have made several contacts already and feel so blessed that we have the support of our family and friends. Our church even has a contact in Guatemala and he has already emailed me to say that his family and the church members are available to help us! We are blessed.

So, now I am looking for a place for my little family! Family! And, I am comparing flights which I am not great at. I feel like I can start packing... and the next time I leave, I am not coming home without Luciana!

There have been some low points over the last couple of days, but we just keep saying that we are stirring up a big ol' pot of lemonade out of all those lemons!

This whirlwind has certainly been one of those "the good, the bad, and the ugly" experiences, but we are okay. Really, we are great. Luciana is coming home!

Thank you for coming here time and time again to lift our family up. Your shoulders have carried us a long way and we are grateful.

Much love.

11 comments:

veggiemom said...

So glad for the happy outcome of the birth certificate but sorry for the frustration along the way. Have a great time with your kiddos in Antigua. I know it will be wonderful!
Kerri and Ruby

Steph said...

Yes! Yes! Yes! Finally...we can breathe again....you know I was holding my breath and turning blue along with you. :)

I can't wait to hear about the wonderful travel plans!! Woohoo!!

Guatemama said...

Beth!
I am speechless! I feel bad that I had no idea all this was going on last week. I am so sorry this happened. YEA!! for the BC being done for real though that is wonderful!! You and Sam and Lucianna in Guatemala! That will be some special time for sure!! When are thinking of leaving?? Will we see you?? Tell Sam if we do meet that Alex won't be there though. :( :( I feel like this whole comment is missing the boat but honestly I am still SHOCKED not what I thought you were going to post. Hang in the end is still near!!!!
Tracy

Anonymous said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I've been checking religiously and finally, some good news that I was waiting to hear. So, let us all know the date of the departure. You do know, that my mother's exchange sister lives in Antigua and would certainly love to help you out. I'll talk to her as soon as she returns from there herself. Much love and sending all our positive vibes. XXTamar

Bobbi said...

What a week it has been!

Breathing a bit easier tonight.......

Reese is practicing his "Beth's" for you!!

Anonymous said...

So sorry for the emotional turmoil of the last week! Glad you have the BC (for real!) and will be hanging with Sam and Luci in Antigua! What a blast!!! Enjoy spending moments with your children before you come home to the busyness of life!

Emily said...

I'm so glad you're counting down these steps-- even if it is for a 2nd time...you will LOVE Antigua too! It's the best place to start FOREVER!!

Emily

Sandi said...

I will continue to keep your family in my prayers as you make this journey to pick up your daughter. How amazing for you to be able to share it with your son. :)

Donna said...

Oh Beth!! What an emotional week for you!! So, glad things are moving forward again.

I went down early on my pick up trip, too. Like you, it was just time. I have an awesome recommendation in Antigua if you want one. As it was just me and my two 13 month old babies, I was a little overwhelmed. I am so glad I went, what a fantastic experience for you and Sam! (and Luci!)

((hugs)) Donna
donnamarie4@comcast.net if you want to chat

Anonymous said...

hi,
thinking of you all
xooxoo
deb

Bobbi said...

YOU'VE BEEN TAGGED---you have nothing better to do!!! HEE HEE!