And how could we forget...

Our new nephew Asher Scott Johnson graced us with his presence about 2 weeks ago on January 16th around 9pm. His mommy, Amy, was a champion during the birth - she seriously deserves a gold medal, as does daddy Allen. They are both great examples to us of laying their lives down for their family.

Asher is healthy and (of course) very handsome. We can't wait to see his little personality emerge. And we are so excited that he and Baby Reno will be so close in age. For pictures of the new member of the Johnson clan, visit the Johnson family blog.

We are praising God for a safe birth and a healthy baby! Our cup overfloweth!

Baby Reno Update

I forgot to share that we also just received an update on Baby Reno. God has been so faithful to answer our prayers to keep him healthy...he has gained over 1 pound! And the update said he is happy, healthy, smiley and friendly. Along with the update we received a new precious picture, which we can't wait to share when we pass court...

Where have you been?

If you are one of "in the know" crowd who have seen the A&E version of Pride & Prejudice, then imagine Lady Catherine de Bourgh (sp?) saying the title of this post...if you haven't seen that version and have seen the recent version with Keira Knightly, then go find the A&E version right now. The recent one left us out of breath and feeling claustrophobic. And Keira Knightly really needs to go back to acting school and learn how to deliver lines so people can understand her. Like I know so much about acting ;)

Anyway, that is completely beside the point. I am actually supposed to be sharing the exciting news that IF Baby Reno's case is approved on February 2nd (be praying!) then we will travel to Addis Ababa on February 21st. Crazy! Yes, crazy! We are traveling half way around the world to a country we have never been to pick up our son (our son!!) whom we have never met. Does it get any crazier than that? Well, maybe, but not for the Renos (thus far anyway). Chris and I were just saying tonight how we really have no idea how to prepare ourselves for this life-changing trip or the huge life change of having a child. Except to pray, because we know God is faithful to provide.

The baby's room is finally starting to resemble a bedroom and not just a workout/ storage/sewing room. We still have a very long way to go. I am trying to sort through all of our things (not just baby things) and get rid of everything that is not absolutely necessary to our health and happiness. Quite a task.

Our wonderful and so kind friends and family threw us 2 showers. The lovely ladies at our church even made Ethiopian food for our church shower. So, so thoughtful. We were blessed beyond belief with many fun and necessary baby things. Thank you everyone!

One family from our agency has a court date right about now...we are praying for you Whitakers!

We have a court date!

We found out a couple of weeks ago that our court date is on February 2nd. Please, please, please be praying that we pass the first time. If not, then we wait another month or so for another court date. The court hearing is in Addis Ababa, and we do not need to be there. Our agency represents us in court.

Our baby room is totally overflowing and totally needing some attention. Friends are asking to see the baby room and I tell them that it is still complete chaos. I will start organizing next week, after our baby showers. Our sweet, sweet friends and family are planning 2 baby showers for us, one at church and one at work. They will be so fun!