Answered Prayers

Yesterday was our appointment at the Embassy so we could file our I600 form. Basically this form informs allows us to claim an orphan as a relative. That's fancy for "hello governments of Ghana and the United States, Dallan and Kirsten Livingston want to make Grace ours forever." When we got to the appointment there was some confusion as to the forms but it was resolved quickly. Dallan and I had to wait in this shoebox size room for a woman to ask us questions we didn't expect. At the end of it, I asked how long the process takes. (The department conducts a search of all documents submitted to make sure they are valid and legal). The woman informed us it would take no longer than 30 days. This morning we got a call saying Percy was at the front desk. We had expected him later in the day so we could go the the Golden Tulip, another hotel here with a pool. Dallan went down to meet him and see what was going on. Percy said the embassy had called him requesting that Dallan return the phone call at his earliest convenience. Dallan called back and what did they have to say? Everything had been approved! Thirty days turned into about 12 hours! They told Dallan they had a packet of paperwork for him to come pick up. So, instead of spending the afternoon lounging in the Tulip's pool we were back at the embassy waiting for our names to be called. Grace was once again, AMAZING at the embassy. Easy and charming. When we were finally called to the window, the lady said "Livingston Family"; finally Dallan and I have a family!

The packet is to obtain Grace's visa/passport. We also have to have an interview with one of the consular officers. This only happens on Mondays and Tuesdays. So, instead of leaving Accra on Saturday the 16th, we've extended the trip a week to do this interview and, if God willing, come home on the 23rd WITH GRACE IN TOW. That's right, no more second trips, no more waiting. The Livingston's will all be united under the same roof by months end!

So, do us a favor and keep us in your prayers. There is always a chance something could go wrong with the Visa and/or the interview. Just send us some good thoughts for a speedy trip home!

Pictured: Snuggling with Daddy in bed, sleeping with my best friend, with mommy on our way to the embassy, after the embassy playing with my dye dye.