Faux pas

Oh my goodness! I've recently discovered that it is actually against Ethiopian law to post photos of the children prior to completing the court process and becoming the legal parents. It is for the children's protection and does make sense. Many things can go wrong in this process and they do not want these kids exploited in any way. So even though it is hard as a waiting parent not to share them with everyone, I have removed all photos and references to their Ethiopian names until after I have passed court. Thank you to the kind individual who pointed this out to me or I may not have known, and could have jeopardized my adoption.

On the bright side, my twins have been moved from the foster home in Soddo to the care center in Addis Ababa, their final stop before coming home to the U.S. Now they need to get another (more thorough as I understand) medical exam and then we can submit our paperwork for a court date. I am praying for a smooth process and to pass court on the first attempt. I am still hoping and praying for an Embassy date in late March. This waiting business is hard!!!

Thinking about names

I've been really thinking about names. Earlier I talked about changing my last name to my children's Ethiopian surname (see Josiah & Naomi posted 11/27/07), which according to their traditions is their father's first name. I wanted to honor their heritage and family. But the more I talk to people and the more I think about it, I am now leaning again towards giving them my last name instead. There are many reasons, but I have given it much thought and prayer and it seems like the better decision. So I am a bit reluctantly, but peacefully letting go of that desire.

Computer woes

Well, my computer had been running increasingly slower and slower and finally died completely on 12/29/07 - just after my last post. I'm not sure if the hard drive gave out or if it was victim to some virulent virus (my virus scanning software said "0 viruses" but I'm not sure I believe it). After growing frustration with my PC the last year or two, I made the switch to a Mac and am still working on learning its unique nuances. I was hoping to simplify my life a bit and resolve this area of frustration prior to my new venture in motherhood, but alas, it is yet to be resolved. And with the switch some of my diligent backing up of files may have been for naught as not all are compatible with the new Mac. Perhaps someone is trying to tell me to let go of some of my computer obsession, so I'll have more time for these precious children!!

I'm still waiting for an update on the twins. They were to have been moved from the foster home in Soddo to the CWA care center in Addis Ababa around 1/3/08, but to my knowledge that hasn't happened. Once there, they will get another medical exam and then the court date can be scheduled. Nonetheless, I am still estimating traveling to get them sometime in March. Time is moving so fast and so slow both at the same time!