11 Months Old

Lainey turned 11 months on February 22, the day after we received word our file was submitted to the U.S. Embassy.  We have yet to receive confirmation from the Embassy, and to be honest, I'm not holding my breath for word right away.  I know a family who did not hear anything for five weeks, only to find out their file had "insufficient evidence" of their child's orphan status.

That being said, I am doing well.   I am grateful for my husband who makes me laugh every day, a home I love and friends who just get me. (You know who you are.)

And I'm super grateful for our daughter.  I feel lucky to be her mama and I know that God is in control of our situation and protecting her until I can.

And I am so glad for the following pictures.  These were sent to me from one of our agency employees who spent time at the Thomas Center and other orphanages in Ethiopia.  Our little baby is growing!

With the pictures, we received this brief assessment of Lainey.  I can't wait to have my hands full with that "demanding and vocal" personality!

Martha Birthdate: 22/3/2011
This little girl appears rather petite but she is mighty. The nannies call her "Marti.”  Her fuzzy fine hair was put in cute little pigtails when I was there and she initially sits back and just watches, taking in her environment. She has a darling chubby belly and can balance on her tiny little legs, standing with help on furniture or leaning on someone’s legs. She gets around beautifully by crawling and is able to sit up. Although slow to smile, she indicates her wants quite clearly and can keep the nannies (and a guest like me) occupied as we took turns holding her and keeping her entertained. A bit demanding and vocal, she is then very content and happy to stay in your arms and take in the rest of her environment. As she was falling asleep she seemed to be soothed when we rubbed/patted her tummy and back.