Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Cast your votes now.

The passport was not issued today and they didn't even tell us come back tomorrow this time. They said, "come back Thursday." So now the reality has set in that we will not be leaving to come home on Monday as planned. It is hard not to be upset because the only thing holding us here is the passport (or lack of). The Ghanaian passport office knows this, but they don't care. (harshly stated, I know, but true). It was their mistake! And they have had over a month to fix it! Anyway, we will meet with the Embassy tomorrow to see if we can at least submit what we have to get a head start on filing for the visa. We will be asking them some more questions, which I won't post here for the world to see on this blog. You can pray for our sad hearts. My chest actually hurts...so very disappointed. We also need prayer for wisdom, because I think Phil should return to be with our children at home(for Christmas) and yet Phil doesn't want to leave me here. I can't leave Phil here, because Kathyrn is not ready for that big of a step. We were so hoping not to be in this situation. So Phil has said the decision is now open for votes. So cast your vote now (in the comments). We will tally the results and post our decision:)

13 comments:

Renee said...

I am PRAYING that God will move the hearts of those in the Passport Office.

I am PRAYING that God will give you wisdom as you seek His will.

I am so sorry!!!

Blessings,
Renee

Dana Lohrer said...

So sorry to hear that! Hopefully the Embassy will allow things to move regardless. We are praying that God directs your footsteps. We continue to pray for God's favor! As far as our vote, we think Phil should stay. As hard as it is for Lukas and Evalin not to have either of you here for Christmas they are safe and taken care of. I just can't imagine you and the kids by yourself in a foreign country. Byron and I feel like Phil needs to be there with you. There is our vote! We love you!

Laurel said...

I vote with Dana. While you miss Lukas and Evalin and they miss you, there are many people here to take care of them and give them lots of love. Kathryn and Isaac need both of you right now.

This reminds me of our time at the hospital with Elijah 2 years ago. While it was difficult for the other kids (Josiah was only 5 at the time), Jim and I both needed to be at the hospital with Elijah for 3 weeks. We knew that our other kids were being loved on by our friends (we have no involved family) and we knew that, in the long run, the other kids would understand our commitment to Elijah.

Please let us know if we can help with your kids here. We would LOVE to have them spend some time playing at our house.

We are PRAYING!

Laurel

sslamar said...

What a tough and trying road! The one thing to remember is that this isn't forever , Thanks you Jesus!
I guess as far as Phil coming home if it was going to be a week or so I would forsure send him home. You are strong and have gotten through what seems like the worst. The thing to remember is that your kids need you at home also and we can't forget that.Over 2 weeks away from your kids that haven't been left for more then 4days is to long! Grandparents are great but no substitue for mom or dad on Christmas!!
Love Ya

sslamar said...

One last thought! Can phil come home with Isaac?
We are praying day and night for you!!

BOTTHEAD said...

Our prayers are that you will receive a passport for Kathyrn by Thursday. If not, Bev, Nina and Marv all vote for Phil to stay with you for everyone's protection. Your children are well taken care of (and enjoyed by) their grandparents. You will have many more Christmases to come and share as a family!
Prayers and love,
Uncle Marv

K said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Kristin said...

I am praying for you guys! Tough decisions, but stay encouraged that God is with you in all that you do and I pray He will be there to give you PEACE in whatever decison you make!

Fortunately, you are blessed to have grandparents to give lots of love and tlc to the children at home- that is a blessing!

Sorry you are ripped up inside with these decions and waiting; hopefully these feelings will soon only be a memory!

Annerb said...

My vote:
Phil stays there with you.

Praying for your:
peace
steadfastness
- and -
unwavering faith

Love,
A. Ann

Hailey said...

So sorry friends that you're not able to come home as expected. I trust that the Lord has delayed your trip for his purpose.

While it only matters what the Lord tells you and Phil (obviously). . .our vote (after consulting Derek) is that you stay there together. Having Amanda alone in a foreign country is far worse a situation than having L&E with family here at home.

Hope that helps! Our hearts hurt for you. Rest well and Press on. We pray that the passport miraculously appears!

Barqueros said...

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Ps. 46:1-3)

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Ps.34:17,18)

I don't know what to tell you - I know that God gives wisdom when we ask Him, and that He is still in control of all events and all people (even government officials!)
I pray that He might strengthen your hearts that you might seek His wisdom, and trust Him for all these things.

I wish it was easier.
I love you!

~Theresa

Carissa said...

hey! it's so good to be able to read about your travels and trials. i pray that the hand of God would continue to guide you. don't worry about your kids, i've seen them a couple times throughout the week and they seem to be doing great! i think that you both should stay there with your kids, Kathryn and Isaac. they need you in this time. i'll continue to pray that all the necessary paperwork comes together in God's timing.
see you soon! blessings, Carissa Diacogiannis

Cassie said...

I LOVE READING WHAT GOD IS DOING!!! MY stomach flip-flopped and i have goose-bumps everywhere.

HOLD ON TO HOPE! KEEP PRESSING INTO PRAYER! God is working, His timing truly is PERFECT... Hold on to all he has said to you in this time when you are frustrated and confused. Let God Hold your heart for Lukas and Evalin... as well as your heart to see Isaac and Kathryn at home with everyone!

Even though i have not walked through adoption or child birth, I have walked through the birth(and death) of dreams; it's HARD and painful, but what a BEAutiful gift the end brings. DREAMS COME TRUE. LIFE GIVEN. HOPE RESTORED. and the pain that aches in you chest now will seem so far away. HOLD ON!!!! You guys are doing GREAT.

I keep thinking of Ephesian 6 "..after you have done everything to stand, stand firm then."

My vote is that Phil stays with you. You will need to give each other the strength this battle will take.
i am going home to Lynden this weekend, so i will make sure L&E are smiling and giggling =)
love you guys
~cass