I really have no concrete news tonight, other than Ryan making the trip to Julia’s hometown today. The last thing I was able to find out late this evening was that they were able to locate the birthmother and she had begun the process for relinquishment at the local tribal counsel when I last spoke to Ryan. That should be completed first thing in the morning, followed by a local court process and then drive back to Addis. There is then a process in Addis before heading the the US Embassy to apply for her visa. Bethany is working very hard to make this as quick as an ordeal for us as possible. There are many gracious people here praying and being very caring towards us, and I so very much appreciate all of your well wishes and prayers.

On the brighter side, our Julia Joy is a wonderful little girl! She is so happy and content, crying only for her bottle and when she is sleepy. When she smiles, her whole face lights up. She loves snuggles and kisses from me and is especially fond of her Daddy. She loves to watch the older kids play and loves it whenever they show her attention. I can’t wait to get her home to her big sisters! She seems to be on track developmentally – sitting up, rolling over, blowing bubbles, and is eating and sleeping well.

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