Dec
23
2010
Merry Christmas from Nebraska
Well it’s not Africa…but we are cozy by the Christmas tree with family nearby and tummies full of my Dad’s chili.
We did receive word from our case manager today around noon that the US Embassy in Ethiopia is requiring additional documentation before they will approve Daniel’s visa. We aren’t sure what type of documentation they are asking for or when a new Embassy appointment will be given. There are a lot of unknowns right now. But one thing we DO know…God is in absolute control and NEVER makes mistakes. We are very disappointed (heart broken to be honest) but we know God loves Daniel and He will be glorified when Daniel comes home in His time. We have exhausted ourselves discussing every possible scenario…but in the end…it really doesn’t matter. If our agency continues in 2011 with their same Embassy appointment schedule the next open Embassy date is January 10th. We are praying that any additional paperwork necessary is ready and processed for us to travel at that time!!
As the Christmas cards have been pouring into our mailbox I have started to regret my decision not to send ours out this year. We did a little mini photo shoot downtown in early October and I had designed a fun little card well before Halloween. I had it waiting in a folder ready to order as soon as we returned from Africa. But once I held our sweet little guy…I just couldn’t send out a Christmas card without his sweet little face. I figured we’d be home by the first of the year and I could send out a killer New Years card. Ok…maybe we’ll shoot for Valentine’s Day, huh?
So…here it is {the color looks off on my laptop monitor…but I can’t fix it from here…so let’s just run with it, ok!} :)
MERRY CHRISTMAS from the Coopers! We pray that your holiday season is full of Christ’s love and blessings!
{front of card}
{back of card}
I’m sorry you’re not in Africa but thankful you can be with the people who love you the most and can help you through this tough time! Thank you for sharing your hope in the midst of your heartbreak….that the Lord *is* in control and *will* be glorified! Your testimony over the last couple days is already bringing Him glory!!! p.s. DARLING card and come Valentine’s Day you will have a great new pic with FOUR little loves in it!
the card is beautiful! I’m so sorry about the way things turned out this Christmas. My heart is truly breaking for you and the other 6 families… praying for a quick new date!!!!
Oh wow I’m so sorry that it didn’t work out for you to travel before Christmas. How wonderful that you are able to celebrate this special time of year with your family, even if one important member is not there yet! You have so many Christmases and Easters and birthdays and Mother’s days and Father’s days and so many ordinary days to spend with him to come – just hold onto that.
Thanks for being such a wonderful example of a family living out their faith, despite disappointment and delays – what a joyous day it will be when you 6 are together forever!
Hope you have a wonderful day with your family and can love on those 3 gorgeous kids of yours for another few weeks until you have an addition!
Oh Jenn – so sorry you got stuck in this mess. Five to six families with our agency are as well. BIG HUGS!!!! I love the card! I wanted to send you a card but never heard back via email with your address
So if you get the chance send it and I’ll put one in the mail!!!
Wishing you a very blessed Christmas!!!! God understands your heart wishes and the missing of your arms. He will fill them soon! Love to you and your family!
Jill
So so sad that you guys weren’t confirmed. Praying and praying for your hearts and for your paperwork. Hoping you get some good news early next week…
Jen:
I love love love the card and seeing your sweet littles… They are so adorable! I am so sorry this week has turned out to be so different than you planned. Your attitude is amazing and inspirational to all of us and we will all keep praying for quick resolve to this situation. I cannot wait to see baby Daniel in the arms of his forever family. Peace and hugs,
Melanie
Awesome Card…and I don’t blame you for waiting…who says you can’t send out cards in the New Year, wishing everyone a happy 2011!?…that is what we are doing. Sets yours aside for something special and you will have ALL 4 of your kiddos on it. However, that has to be the rockin’est Christmas Card I’ve ever seen!!! You have such a talent in all that you do. I’m sure being a mama to a baby miles and miles away is no different! God give you the strength you need to get through this and your time is almost here!!!