Thanks!

We made it to DC through the ice and snow and even have time to rest before the flight to Ethiopia tomorrow. God is good!

Leaving the kids was harder than I expected because we discovered just before leaving that Tommy has strep throat. There's not much worse for a mommy than to leave her kids for a week when they are sick! Thankfully, God has given us awesome friends and family who will take great care of them while we are gone. Because of the storm, we took an earlier flight hoping to avoid the delays. Although it gave us peace of mind concerning our flight schedule, it meant one more night away from Tommy, Victor and Vanessa which also made the departure a little harder. Again though, I'm continually reminded that they are in great hands and will probably have too much fun this week to miss us.

Thank you, Cassie, Kerrin, Mom and Dad, Julie ,and Jenny for your willingness (and eagerness) to watch them for us while we are away this WEEK before Christmas!

Thank you, Nicole, for being ready to watch Vanessa, and thanks, Molly, for understanding that now isn't a good time for you or your mommy or daddy to get strep throat! Vanessa can't wait for that overnighter once we're all home.

Thank you, Katie, for taking care of our house and for volunteering to wrap up some tasks I didn't finish, and thanks, Taylor, for caring for our feathered friends.

Thank you, Tom and Loreatha, for keeping Jazzy, transporting our van from the airport, planning to pick us up from the airport, and filling in the gaps that may be created while we are away.

Thank you, Amy, for all you did (and loaned us) to help us prepare for what is to come. As we've said before, if it weren't for your example, we wouldn't be here!

Thank you, Susan, Cindy, and Lesley for the imperative part you've played in this story as our adoption agency.

Thank you Denise, Kelli, Donna, and Nikki for the encouragement and tips from your experiences.

Thank you, Vanessa, for your enthusiasm, prayers and support.

And most importantly, to everyone who has offered to help and/or pray for us in this radical endeavor, thank you! God is clearly hearing and answering your requests to give us strength and peace.

Thanks!
Love,
Tim and Alicia