So much to be Thankful for!

We have just returned from Northern Michigan visiting our families for Thanksgiving. One of the greatest blessings about working for a college are the frequent breaks! We spent the four days helping sister Sarah move into my [Laura] parents' old house, and Scott worked on the Christmas tree farm. It wasn't super relaxing, but it was so good to be around family and to be able to pitch in.

So a couple of adoption updates. Right before we left, we received news that Mateo's case received authorization to go ahead with the DNA testing of him and his birthmom. This is a great step forward as this means in the next three weeks or so the social worker interview and DNA testing will be done at the same time. When this happens, Mateo's birthmom will have to come in and sign some paperwork and also get her picture taken with Mateo. I don't think she has seen him since she gave him up for adoption when he was 8 days old (and that has been over two years). It is our prayer that she will be able to make it though the interaction. I can't believe how hard it has to be for her. On Ellie's case we are still waiting for her authorization for DNA. They were having a hard time getting her birth records renewed, so still waiting on that.

Other good news is that we have sold 84 wreaths so far! We brought 130 back with us from home, so only 46 more to sell! We are so blessed by the support we are receiveing from our Bethel and church families. Thank you.

P.S. We got the perfect tree ever.