Dave's Update
Christy and Dad's Photo Booth
My brother wanted to know why we were planning to adopt a couple of Librarians....
First, let me say that I'm thrilled about this process and I sense God's hand at work in the whole thing. Ellen and I have really been on the same page with this since the beginning. What is most encouraging to me is that our girls are extremely excited about it. Both of them pray regularly for Sayfou and Matterline; they want them to join our family as soon as possible. Abbey especially can't wait to have a sister in her room. The whole room-sharing thing is a huge plus for Abbey who would have sleep-overs with Christy every night of the week now if we let her. Christy has also shown a real tenderness toward these kids. When we told them that the orphanage had been robbed of its food, Christy was genuinely moved by it and almost got teary-eyed.
We know there are challenges ahead. My work keeps me from being naive about all of this. Even though God's hand is evident, that doesn't mean that there will not be struggles, hardship, and disappointment. We anticipate that these kids may have some unique needs (academically, emotionally, behaviorally, physically, etc.) that will present some real challenges for them and our family.
Over the weekend, I finished up some of my tasks, like the financial forms, sending out the physician reports, and securing guardianship. My best buddy, Todd and his wife Denise had already agreed to be the guardians for Christy and Abbey years ago. I asked them this weekend if they would be able to do the same for Sayfou and Matterline. They hadn't heard about this yet, so Todd's first question was to ask if I was joking. When I told him it was for real, he was extremely supportive and happy for us. If Ellen and I get hit by a bus or a meteorite, then Dr. Todd and Denise will be raising 8 (count 'em) kids, including 5 (count 'em!) boys. As we say, good luck with all that.
We're moving ahead. The first meeting for the home study happens this Tuesday. We could be done with the whole thing in pretty short order. Then we wait...
We have always wanted you and Ellen to "live forever". Now we are even more confident in that wish.........ha ha. We love you dearly. We can't wait for the "librarians" to arrive!! Todd and Denise
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Todd and Denise:
I can't imagine any other parents that I'd want to raise my children, including these new ones. Thank you for being supportive and encouraging and all that!
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Todd and Denise,
Thank you Dear Ones! Lee and I are looking forward to two more grandchildren with joyous anticipation.
God bless you.
Peace,
Mannon & Lee Eldreth
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Thank YOU for the legacy of love in the family. This will be one great adventure for all......Love, todd and denise
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Hey Dave, Rebecca's aunt told people we were adopting a boy from Libya--I think she thought all African countries are alike and surely Liberia and Libya are the same country!
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Dave and Ellen-
Thanks so much for your blog. The honesty and love is awesome. I'am so excited for you guys. I loved reading about the family that bought your old home and how God just steered you all together-That is what I like to call "God Amazing" too cool, so awesome!
Loved the story about Vaughn too. That lil guys has given me a few laughs over the years as well.
We will keep praying for your whole family-all six of ya!
Love-
The Harrisons
Kevin, Suz, Riley and Jack
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