Concrete Travel Dates

Got word from our agency that we leave for China on January 8, 2009 and return to the states on January 23, 2009. Its official. Now we wait for our official itinerary. I will keep you posted.

Merry Christmas

We had a wonderful Christmas here at home today. Frank and I were truly blessed by how the kids were very thankful for the gifts that they did receive. It was a great time to be at home and enjoy each other's company. My dad and his wife came and spent several hours with us. They also brought pies and lasagna.

Frank and I cooked a big dinner that turned out great. The best news is that this will be the last Christmas that Amelia will have to spend in an orphanage. Next year, she will spend Christmas with her forever family.

Thank You God for blessing us with your son Jesus Christ. Happy Birthday Jesus!

Let the count down begin (16 days)

It's Christmas Eve 2008. Wow, where did the time go really? This year has flown by and in just 16 days, Frank and I will leave for China to pick up the newest addition to our family. I sit here with 3 of the 4 children here by the fire and all is calm. Not a creature is stiring at 7:30 am except the cat who is sitting right beside me.

Frank is out window shopping and then it's off to meet with a friend for coffee and bible study.

In just a few hours, we will go to Frank's sisters and visit for a few hours and who knows what else will take place. Tomorrow we will spend the day at home with the kids which is a first. We usually are going somewhere.

Thinking of so many of you this morning and wishing you all a very Merry CHRISTmas with love from the Brizzi's.


Djuna

IT'S FINALLY HERE!!!!

After 5 weeks of waiting, our TA (travel approval) is here. China knows we are coming. Our family coordinator called just a few minutes ago and said that they have tentative dates for us to travel to China.

It looks like we will be leaving on January 8 and returning either the 22nd or 24th. I hope its the 22nd. We had an extended stay last time and I will definitely be ready to come home by then. We hope to have confirmed dates from China by Christmas.

So, thank you Lord for answering our prayers that we receive TA by Christmas.

Still Waiting

We were hoping to receive a call last Monday 12/8 that would possibly put our travel to China on Christmas Day. But as of today, still no call regarding our TA.

Each day that goes by puts leaving for China in January. Please Lord send that TA this week so that we can finally know when we will be bringing Mia home.

Sigh

Still no call regarding our TA today. We also found out that as of January 1, the orphanage fee will go from $3,000 to $5,000 plus. Not good news but, God will make a way.

Hoping for a call this week and departure in the next two weeks. Keep us in your prayers.

Bummer.

UPDATE

Well, its been a few weeks since I last posted so here's an update. Last week I sent our visa applicatoin to our agency. Now it's time to apply for our visas for the trip to China.

Today, I am hoping to receive a call that we got our TA (travel approval). This will give us tentative dates of travel. We really are praying for travel on Christmas Day. This would be a blessing in so many ways. Keep us in your prayers.

There is so much to do and plan for before we leave but, God will see me through. I can't wait to bring our daughter home. We face many changes in the new year but I TRUST God.