Step One- Initial Paperwork

We sent in our first stack of paperwork last week and after explaining that process to a few people I thought it might be helpful to blog about what each step entails as I try and keep friends and family in the loop. This may also give a little insight into the whole international adoption process, mountains of paperwork and all.

After being accepted into the India program we received a lengthy email including tons of information as well as 10 or so attachments which all needed to be signed and returned along with our first program fee. Included in the whole assortment of papers were documents such as:

• India Program Family Service Plan
• India Post Adoption Agreement
• India Program Disclaimer
• India Homestudy Agreement
• Client Rights and Responsibilities
• America World Adoption Agreement 

That list isn't even complete. We pretty much signed our lives away when we sent in those documents and the first check. This may sound weird but up until the paperwork was signed and mailed I felt overwhelmed, scared, and uncertain just to name a few of the emotions. I was so tempted to doubt God's call. I kept thinking about finances and wondering how in the world we could afford to take this on. The weight of the decision we had in front of us seemed immense. However once all that initial paperwork was placed in the mail I honestly felt at peace. First gigantic step of faith has been taken...here we go!!