We have been waiting to update because we were waiting for news...but we haven't really had any news lately. We were originally told that we would be told when the Social Welfare system (SWS) handed our paperwork over to the Korean ministry. It was supposed to take no more than 2 months but it has been since December and we have not heard yet. We were finally told that once the Korean ministry has our paperwork that it would be 4-6 months before we travel. Originally we were prepared to be traveling any day now but it looks more like it will be summer. We are doing our best not to get frustrated with the system because we knew it would be unpredictable. And no we can't just go over there and try to speed things along (yes, we've been asked that question).
Another question we've been asked is "isn't this driving you crazy?" And the answer is yes, of course! We think about him constantly and pray that he is healthy and happy. It's impossible knowing that he is missing time with his forever family, learning the language, learning what it is like to be loved, and so much more. Choosing adoption is not the easy route, it's a rough gut wrenching rollercoaster, but even in the middle of the horrible torturous part, we know we are exactly where we are supposed to be.
We know some people were waiting to hear about Lifesong. We finally heard from them and are approved as one of their families. We did not get the matching grant but we are able to receive funds through them. Anyone who donates would be able to make it a tax deductible donation. Here are details:
Checks should be payable to “Lifesong for Orphans. In the memo, note “family account number” and “family name” (Thelen / #4231) to assure it goes to the correct account. Please mail to Lifesong for Orphans, PO Box 40, Gridley, IL 61744. Lifesong has been blessed with a partner that underwrites all U.S. administrative and fund-raising costs (TMG Foundation and other partners). That means 100% of your donation will go directly to the adoption.
To pay online go to www.lifesongfororphans.org/give/donate. Select “Give to an Adoptive Family.” Complete the online form and fill in “Family Account Number” and “Family Name” fields. Note PayPal charges an administrative fee (2.9% + $.30 USD per transaction). Your donation will be decreased by the amount of this fee.
NOTE: In following IRS guidelines, your donation is to the named non-profit organization. This organization retains full discretion over its use, but intends to honor the donor’s suggested use.
Individual donations $250 or more and yearly donations totaling $250 or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Receipts for donations under $250, will gladly be sent upon request. Lifesong is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization.
We have already been blessed so much by all the support! If you feel led to give, we are still raising funds for travel and the follow up visits with our case worker... There may be 2 trips required so we don't have an exact amount.
Also the Adoption Tax Credit which allows so many families, including us, to pursue adoption is in trouble once again. We would not be able to adopt if it weren't for the tax credit making it more affordable. If you would be willing, please consider writing your legislators asking them to save the tax credit. More info here :
http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/advocate
Hopefully we will have more news to post soon!
For now, please pray with us:
Most importantly that Jonah would continue to be safe, healthy, and happy
That those involved with his case from the Korean end would be efficient and speedy
That Jonah's foster family would be blessed and given wisdom to watch over him
That we would be filled with peace and patience and given strength to get through this "wilderness" experience
Thanks for your support everyone!
