oh boy.

Summary of our crazy week so far:

- Still no TA. We heard the consulate appointments were backed up for FOUR WEEKS. This would mean waiting an extra month to get Moses.

-Toilet seal went bad and started leaking water into the basement. Repair man says he can't come until Monday.

-Loaned our old truck out for use on a mission trip project. It couldn't handle the heavy stuff and died.

-Modem quit working. We are jimmy-rigging internet until Friday.

-Printer/scanner (that we need to send adoption papers) quit working properly. Jimmy-rigging that, too.

-Flat tire on Bobby's car.

-Mechanical problems with the van. It's in the shop today.

-Flight costs went back up. Is that temporary??

Thank goodness a dear friend (and experienced adoptive mom) called last night. She was able to help me refocus on what to do next.

Our conversation was actually sort of funny, because as I was listening to her, I started to feel relaxed for the first time in days. I guess I've been living with a lot of underlying tension, waiting for the phone to ring. I've spent HOURS on the phone with various tech support people this week. And also, I've been calling all around the US and scavenging message boards trying to get information about why TA's have suddenly slowed down. This last stretch can just be a tense, uncertain time.

Hearing her talk reminded me that it was eventually going to be OK. I didn't realize I was so worn out until then, and I nearly fell asleep on the phone! It was such a comforting feeling to know someone understood and had made it to the other side of this.

What a gift friends are! And thank You, God, for perfect timing.