We have decided that Nichole should stay until we can bring Zurich home. Nichole will get to be with Zurich the whole time. She is even able to take him from the transition home and keep him at the guest house. There are no guarantees, but she should only be here for 4-8 weeks, upon which I will return and take them both home. The guest house is very safe, and America World has encouraged us that this is a common decision by families, and that they will more than take care of her and Zurich. Nichole has a nice room with wifi and three meals served every day. She will rarely be alone because there is a constant flow of adoptive families coming through the guest house. Though Ethiopia has little or no violent crime, security guards stand watch 24/7.
The Next Milestone
Once we pass court (which is expected to happen in the next couple of days) the last milestone that we need to cross is the approval from the US Embassy. We do not expect any delays here, but it never hurts to have one of us in country to deal with any hiccups.
The Main Reason
Making new noises, pretending to talk, laughing deeper and longer, responding to kisses and tickles, smiling and crawling to us when we show up at the transition home… Everyday he does something new. The thought of missing out on ANY of that was the largest contributor to us making this decsion. Though the transition homes are nicer than orphanages, they are not proper homes. Zurich has been sick nearly the whole time that he has been there. We also figured out that he gets very little uninterrupted sleep.
Keep her company!
We didn’t think this was an option at first so this is still a fresh decision for us. We are so grateful for your continued prayers and support. Please feel free to contact either of us if you have any questions! If you want to keep Nichole company you can skype her at nicholemarshall, also be sure to send her notes of encouragement! It is a brave thing she is doing, and if you have some left over prayers throw them to this messy dude who will miss his better two/thirds dearly.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
That is so exciting! I am so happy for you that you do not have to miss any time with your precious son. You are an amazing mommy, Nichole!
I know this must have been a hard decision, but how EXCITING!! Nichole, you get to stay with your son for the next couple of months, bonding and just growing your relationship. While I’m sure you will miss you husband, what an amazing gift of LOVE you are giving to your son. Showering him with Christ during that time will be an awesome experience for him. I will definitely be praying for you and your family.
We will be praying for a four week time frame so you will be reunited as a family quickly. Also praying that there be no more hiccups in the process. Love to both of you and best of luck-Pam and Diana
Shaking like a leaf -so emotional and soooo grateful for you to stay with your baby boy – I have wanted nothing more, than for you to be able to have and to hold that precious baby!!!!!!! Love you three!!!!
Ditto to all comments above – this will be a precious time with your new little one and you are awesome parents from day one! Loving you guys and Zurich from Greece!
Wauw! That’s exciting! We wish you and Zurich a special time together. Let your love being growing for your little boy! God is with you both! And He is taking care for all of you! We will also pray during this special time. Greetings from Holland
Wow, I am so happy that you can stay with your precious baby boy. Our love and prayers during this time going your way. The best to you both during your separation, but knowing what wonderful blessings will be in your future.
So excited for all of you! Nichole Iknow how you must be loving your time with Zurich and watching him learn new things every day. Enjoy each moment and take lots of photos so I can scrapbook for you. I know you and Aaron will miss each other so I will continue to pray for 4 weeks to reunite rather than 6-8 weeks. Your little guy is soo lucky to have you and Aaron as his parents. He will be loved and showered with blessings from above. I will miss you , hope you are home for your birthday, wouldn’t that be a great present. Keep me updated. Love you!
I couldn’t be happier for you guys. I will keep you in my prayers.
Oh, I am soooooooo praying it is NOT 6-8 weeks. Praying for one big ol’ reunion for us all. So happy for you guys!