In Colombia, the courts are talking about going on strike, starting October 14. This did happen last year, and I know of a family that was "stuck" in the adoption process while there, and their stay lasted 14 weeks. I also know of a family that could not travel until the strike was over. If this strike does take place, our agency will not allow us to travel until the strike ends, as they do not want us to get "stuck" there in the process. Ugh! We so badly want to travel and be home for Christmas, but, if this takes place it will for sure push us to next year...oh, we don't want this to happen...we are trusting that God knows what is best for us and the girls...and praying for patience and grace that this possibility does not happen. There are several children in Colombia that could be "held" up from meeting their forever families if this strike takes place. It just doesn't seem fair.
Many have also inquired about how long we think our stay will be. We honestly have no idea. I've known families in Bogota who have been there as short as 3 1/2 weeks and stayed as long as 14 weeks. With Isabel and Silas we were there about 6 weeks both times. The unknown does not bother me. I fully enjoy the stay in the country, and it will be such a wonderful time for our family to get to know eachother in the girl's culture that they are familiar with. The hotel we stay at has become like family, so, it truly has become to me "home away from home!" Now, with John's parade house being under construction he will not be able to stay very long. Our hope at this point is that he can fly back and forth as needed (as flights have gone way down in price). I really hope I can keep Isabel and Silas with me for 4+weeks, as I think they will benefit greatly from spending that much time with their new sisters, experiencing their birthland, and being immersed in the Spanish language 24/7...so, when you ask me how you can pray...please pray that our family is in Colombia as long as Caroline, Marta, Isabel, and Silas need to be there. God knows better than us, and we need to put our complete trust in His timing on all of this!
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Hi Kristi,
ReplyDeleteI did not know about this possible strike in Colombia! We will pray HARD that this does not happen! As of right now, it looks like we'll be traveling down in mid-late January. If this strike doesn't happen, is it still a good possibility that you'll be able to go down in November? Let's talk soon! And I can't wait to see you at the Colombian cooking date night, and at our house on the 16th for dinner. Are you guys still up for that? Talk to you soon! Stephanie