Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork

Want to know the hardest part about adoption besides what seems like never ending waiting? All the paperwork!

I spent about 2 hours last night filling out paperwork and gathering information about references. The only major form we have left to fill out is our financial report. That is Michael's area of expertise, so now it's his turn to work on some paperwork!

We are very lucky in the fact that our ABI/FBI screenings were updated for foster care in June, so we are able to use those with the adoption agency. That is going to save us a lot of time because it can take up to 12 weeks for those clearances to come back.

The agency says that we could have our home study complete in as little as 6 weeks if we can get all our forms and other info turned in in a timely manner.

Our only hiccup is insurance. Changing over to family coverage is quite the financial leap! But, we have to show proof that we will be able to add an adopted child to our policy ASAP, so we can't wait until we get a child to switch over.

I am looking into fundraising ideas now. There are two ideas that I really like so far: give out baby bottles for people to fill with their spare change and/or having people sponsor a piece of a puzzle ($5/piece) that will be put together and framed in the nursery. Feel free to send me your ideas or let me know which one you would be more willing to do.

Thank you to everyone who has been so loving and encouraging during all our trials trying to become parents. I truly feel that we are finally on the path that is going to lead to our child/children.