Almaz

Today was such an exciting day, because we had an opportunity to meet the amazing Almaz. She is just as wonderful as everyone says she is. The woman has a beautiful, caring heart and is truly a servant of our Lord. She KNOWS these children. Ask her about any of them at Hannah's Hope and she can give you details to their personalities and hearts that only someone who truly cared about them would be able to observe and know. She genuinely cares about each of them as individuals. I can't imagine anyone that has more of a genuine love for each of these children and it warms my heart to know that she will be in charge of the care of my daughter until I can come get her. Her care for them does not end when they leave Hannah's Hope and arrive into their families arms. She was literally thrilled to see each of the children there and spent a lot of her time taking pictures of them all. It was obvious that she was still very interested in each child and enjoyed catching up with each family. (There were a lot of picture taken, as you can see from all the cameras in this one!)

She also spent time with families like ours who are waiting to meet their children. She also seemed to know the names of the families waiting, at least those that are pretty close.

Sorry this one is so dark, but here are all the families with children home who attended the picnic. Lots of fun trying to get that many people to stay together.

Here we are with Christy. I sure think it is a privilege that we live so close to AGCI and that we get to see and meet all these people. This is the third time I have had a face-to-face conversation with Christy in 9 months.

They had a pinata and bubbles to help keep the kids entertained.

What an amazing day! Not only did I get to meet Almaz, but Ron & Jan Beazley were there along with Doug & Hollen Frazier and Hannah!!

Now for all of you waiting out there, nothing specific was said, but you sure got the impression that once the courts reopen things will really get moving again. I got the distinct impression that we shouldn't still be waiting for a referral in December (that will be 8 months for us and within their 6-8 month waiting guideline)! Praise God!