We are getting closer!

It has been a while since I updated the blog as to all that is going on.  Things have been happening, but we have been so busy with school starting and getting my bible study up and going that I haven't sat down long enough to get out some coherent thoughts.  Here are some updates:
Miriam received her book about our family.  Our agency videotaped the congo director reading it to her.  We could see God at work.  Papa John (this is what the kids call him) hugged Miriam as he read it to her, so she felt safe as she contemplated this new idea in her life.  He read the book with great enthusiasm which seemed to give her a sense that this was going to be ok.  In this book, we simply introduced ourselves.  The main phrase that we wrote was Tolingi Miriam which means we love you Miriam.  The first time she hears that phrase you can see a slight smile come across her lips.  By the end of the book, Papa John has Miriam waving at the camera and telling us that she loves us too.
Our I600 form has been in the hands of US Immigration for almost 4 weeks now, so hopefully we will receive our approval soon.  This week we sent a giant amount of paperwork to a family from our agency that is traveling over the weekend to the DRC.  They are taking everything that is needed for Miriam to get her visa and our embassy appointment.  I am praying for God's perfect timing in our travel and approval process and trying to trust His sovereignty while we wait.
We have also been working on Miriam's room.  It is coming together.  Here is a picture of her bed!

There is still lots to do and so many things that have to happen but we feel it...we are getting closer...our lives are getting ready to change forever...and we are so excited to be on this great adventure!