We have committed to a child!!! This makes the process all the more real, knowing he is our son (barring any unforeseen circumstances in country between now and our court date). Phil and I struggled with going through profiles and narrowing down to only a few possible children. However, we were able to do that with an unbelievable peace-that could only come from the Holy Spirit. We were looking at a girl and 2 boys. We then struggled with clarity and guidance as to who God would have us become mommy and daddy to. We had been thinking we would adopt a child with Cerebral Palsy and were reminded afresh of this fact one day, so we were able to narrow it down to 2 children. We then received information that the girl had been placed in foster care in country and wasn't available (we have since received conflicting information, but are considering it confirmation from God on who we were meant to adopt). So, we committed to a 3 year old boy with Cerebral Palsy. Unfortunately, we do not have much other information. It looks like it doesn't affect him too much...in a few pictures we have seen, it appears only to affect 1 or both of his hands. However, we won't know anything else until we go to get him.
As for his name, his psuedo-name on the Hand of Help and Reece's Rainbow websites is "Jonah". Phil and I would like to keep part of his given name, but we have had a boy's name in mind since we were pregnant with Paisley...Levi. The other day, I looked up what "Levi" meant--it means "joined in harmony"! What a perfect confirmation that this was our little guy! Phil and I are in love and excited to bring Levi home. We have started talking to Paisley about her brother and showing her his picture. So...meet Levi!!!
On another note, Phil and I are working on some items to 'auction' off to help us raise funds. Some of the items we have received are: an autographed driver's shield by Dale Earnhardt Jr., an autographed Jimmie Johnson hat and picture, a couple of special edition Hendrick hats, a football autographed by some of the 2007-2008 Carolina Panthers, and a cowboy hat autographed by Kenny Chesney and Keith Urban. We are trying to get an autographed football by the Tarheels and an autographed basketball by Roy Williams. If you have any item/service/gift certificate you'd like to donate, let Phil or I know! :)
Again, we know that this is a trying time for many of our friends and family, as well as the world we live in. We truly appreciate all of your prayers and support!!! It is our hope that you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving together, a time filled with love, laughter, and holiday memories!
Love,
Phil, Celeste, and Paisley
