Now that that is settled.

Spent another session trying to post and lost it all. It isn't the site; it's me. My stupid computer...

But other than that, I can't complain. I can only rejoice!

Since we've jumped out of the boat, the following has happened:

Brian got a raise that will probably equal mine before it's over. If that is the case, nearly half of the adoption is paid for before we even get through the red tape--and there's a lot of red tape.

News travels quickly and most of whom have received the news have been more than supportive. Sharon Toadvine, Aunt Patty (to a degree), Mom (to a lesser degree) and Dad (with silence only) are wondering what in the world we're doing. AP, Mom and Dad are all worried; Sharon doesn't understand. It's fun to see the rest of the enthusiastic faces when they find out what we're up to.

In spite of my fear of flying, I'm determined to do this. I've rarely BEEN so determined. I don't remember the last time I was, actually.

Neat thing happened today. We were at the P.O. getting our passports when I heard a song that has made me ache to do something since I heard it--something daring and meaningful. It's the first time I've heard the song ("I Hope You Dance") since we've decided to go to China; honestly, I hadn't thought much about it until I heard it today. I nearly fell apart in the P.O. (I wonder how many people get emotional in the post office, anyway?) It's like I'm getting affirmation on a daily basis.

Speaking of that, I spent yesterday afternoon in my car praying that I wouldn't face doubts about this, especially since I haven't yet and that's really unusual. Then, of course, I said, "But if I do..." Last night, after our PR meeting, Dave prayed for our prayer requests. Bart had made the adoption a prayer concern (bless his heart). In the midst of the prayer--and I hadn't said anything at all about my earlier prayer--he said something like, "And Lord, keep any doubts about what they're doing from settling in." Wow.