With hearts full of joy, we introduce you to our baby girl,
Dorothy Elizabeth Li Lesley
"Dottie"
Born: March 30, 2012
So many of you have so diligently prayed with us during this 2 years, and Brian and I can't thank you enough for being a part of this journey with us. We are truly blessed to be surrounded by supportive and encouraging friends and family. Our match was official the Wed. before Thanksgiving (Nov. 28), and I think we are still somewhat in shock that we finally have finally been matched!!!
We thought it might be helpful if we posted some of the most frequently asked questions here to help you better understand the process, Dottie's needs, and our needs.
When do you get her?
Typically 6-8 months from our referral call. We are praying that this time frame will be shorter.
Where is she?
Due to certain regulations, we are not allowed to share her exact location. She is at an orphange in Southern China. Due to the same regulations we are not allowed to post her face on social media until eveything is finalized.
Where is she?
Due to certain regulations, we are not allowed to share her exact location. She is at an orphange in Southern China. Due to the same regulations we are not allowed to post her face on social media until eveything is finalized.
Why does it take so long?
Red tape. paperwork, paperwork, paperwork!
Here are the next steps for us:
LOA: Letter of Approval (This is the approval that is received after our dossier has been reviewed. This can take 3-4 months).
TA: Travel Approval (this step allows us to start booking airfare. This step can take 3-4 months).
Gotcha Day: The day we officially "gotcha" Dottie.
How long will you be in China?
We will be in China for 14 days when we go get her...includes court appointments, interviews, orphanage visits, and some sightseeing in China.
What is her special need?
Dottie has a congenitial heart defect. A pediatrician specializing in internation adoptions and a pediatric cardiologist at UAB have reviewed her medical file. Both doctors agree that she needs to be home before she is two for possible surgery. A letter to expedite her home has been sent to the Chinese government.
Why doesn't she have any hair?
It is easier for the caregiviers to care for and clean the children when their heads are shaved. All the children have shaved heads.
What do we need?
We are praying that God will intervene, and she will be home before her second birthday...March 30. Please join us in praying for a miracle. We have hope that this is a possibility because we know that God is bigger than any obstacle that we face. We will put our hope in Him. We have seen God working in our lives throughout this entire process in big and small ways. We know that He has great plans for us and Dottie, and that He is in control. We serve an awesome God!
"Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to Your name be the glory for Your love and faithfulness."
Psalm 115:1
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding. In all your ways remember Him. Then He will make your paths smooth and straight." Proverbs 3:5-6
