Sad News

On Friday we found out that the DIA (Department of International
Adoption) announced the decision to process all adoptions for those who
have referrals by September 1, 2008. Previously, the DIA has said that
they will process all adoptions for those whose dossiers are logged
into the system by September 1, 2008. While it is possible that we will
receive a referral by then it is very possible that we will not.

We are caught somewhere between hope and grief over the potential loss.
We expect to know more as the week unfolds and over the course of the
next few weeks. I will keep the blog updated as new information
unfolds. We appreciate your prayers for us during this uncertain time.

News

There are a couple of things happening right now that I wanted to share with everyone so that you will know how to pray.

Officials at Phu Tho are now willing to allow two investigations with 7 cases, including our two from our agency. While this may not does not affect our adoption directly it is good news and the bottle neck that exist may start flowing again.

Also, from our agency we have heard that the DIA has requested guidance from the Prime Minister on the handling of dossiers and referrals if the MOU is not extended
about 13 hours ago The US Embassy in Hanoi scheduled the next agency meeting for May 29,2008. 1 day ago"

Please be in prayer that those who have influence on this whole process, in official positions, that their hearts would be softened.

Progress

We received a bit of good news yesterday that our agency shared with us. They are now licensed in two new provinces, Ha Giang and Lai Chau. We continue to anticipate good news after a very long wait and will continue to share good news, no matter how small, as it comes along. Thank you again for your prayers!!!!

Rob and Ashley

There has been movement in the world of adoption in Vietnam. I seems that there have been many families from various agencies who have received their approval and are getting ready to travel to Vietnam to bring home their child. It is good news and very heartening to know that the system that seemed to come to a grinding halt for part of fall and winter is starting to move again.

In addition there have been several agencies who have said that off the record the DIA has indicated that those whose dossiers are logged into the system will be able to complete their adoption. While the log in date for this is still a mystery it is still very good news and since we have had our dossier logged into the DIA since August 2007 I believe we will be apart of that group.

Thank you for your continued prayers!