::our progress::

We want to update you guys regarding our progress. Last week, we filled out our lengthy adoption application plus autobiographies for our adoption agency. We enclosed our $500 application fee for that, too. The board is currently reviewing our application.
 

Yesterday, we submitted applications for our passports! We have been lagging and holding our passport photos for months and finally put them to good use this time! Due to a new passport policy, we weren't allowed to smile for the pictures, but I (Brooke) got away with mine! :)

I had to renew mine because of the name change. When we ordered for multiple certified copies of our marriage and birth certificates, it was a little more complicated than anticipated due to Brooke's surname change. We had to go back and forth with the bank notary in order to verify Brooke's identity.  Just a couple extra steps for me compared to Brian, which was a piece of cake.  Men surely have got it easier, don't they? Yes, they do! :)

As for the passports and certified copies, it came out to approximately $330.00. Thanks for those who purchased infinity scarves and statement necklaces from our Etsy shop, we were able to cover the cost of all that was mentioned above! We have been selling items from the shop quickly! (Special thanks to one of my besties, Shay, for helping me out with the sewing and painting!)

With all the documents, we have everything set for our home study.  I recently spoke with a friend who is in the progress of adopting from Colombia (what a coincidence!) and was given some helpful tips/advice regarding the home study and dossier process. It's nice to have someone to share stories and experiences throughout the adoption journey.

We submitted our story and photo to AdoptTogether.org and they are currently reviewing our file before launching it online. It's a tax-deductible donation website for those who wanted to make a direct donation.

Speaking of fundraising affiliations, we joined April Wade's Created New at http://www.etsy.com/listing/157777159/the-sipek-family-adoption-fundraiser who is selling pretty ruffle scarves to help us raise extra funds. We will get a portion of the proceeds ($10 per scarf). Thanks April!

We are also getting signed up with a coffee company to sell coffee beans to raise extra funds, too! You know us, we are coffee addicts so thought this would be a great way to fund raise. The company also sells tea bags, specialty drinks, smoothies, and gift boxes. We cannot wait to share the information with you once it's up and running!

We will be unveiling new products for our Etsy shop really SOON (like tonight or tomorrow)! Keep your eyes peeled for the next batch of limited edition products! For those who wanted the mint julep and purple pizzazz necklaces to be restocked, it's going to take longer than we anticipated because the special order for a bulk of beads came in the wrong size. We have to return and order the correct sized ones. Please bear with us!

Thank you again for your generous support!!!
Brooke & Brian