Hello, again! Lots going on.

I'm back. Just a little sanity break there.

Here's an update:
Two of our friends (both couples) got referrals in early July. One couple was matched with a 3-year old boy, the other with a 4-year old girl. Of course we're thrilled for them!

Anyway, they settled in for a long wait for their travel approvals since:

1.  The US is changing the process in Nepal. (Basically the US is doing the orphan investigation before prospective parents travel, rather than while they're in-country. This is good news, as it could reduce the time in-country and, more importantly, ensure that children matched are indeed orphans before prospective parents travel.) 
2. Chaos continues in Nepal. Elections have been held for a new Prime Minister, and failed. The third round of elections is scheduled for Monday, August 2.

So these friends are thinking their travel approvals are months away. Nope. They got travel approvals this week! They were shocked. They're preparing for quick travel to meet and bring home their beautiful children.

Here's the ironic thing: while there is more uncertainty in the Nepal government than at any time during the last 18+ months of our adoption process, adoptions are moving more quickly than ever. (We hope this continues!) We assume - and have been told - that once a new government is in place, things will slow considerably. But there's no telling when the new government will be in place - so keep the matching and travel approvals coming!!

Best wishes for quick and safe travel for those with children waiting! We're so happy for you. Let's hope, both selfishly and for the orphans, that more matches and travel approvals are made soon.

Namaste.