We have all been doing well. Viktorija is adjusting well to school and has a couple of friends now. She feels very comfortable with all of our family. She has spent the night a friend's slumber party, she has spent the night with her cousin, and with her grandparents, and my sister, all on different occasions. She really seems to enjoy her interaction with the family. I'm truly thankful for her desire to bond with everyone.
Since we had a meeting with all teachers, and the head of the school, she has had much less homework and has been in a MUCH better mood lately! She is very diligent with her studies and is making good grades. What more could we as for right now?!
She seems to be enjoying her Spring break. She has had time with many of our family members while Mike and I are working, we've played many games ("CLUE" is now her favorite), and enjoyed the perfect weather we've been having. This has been a much needed break for her.
The biggest news, though, is that she accepted Christ as ner personal savior on 4/17!! We were playing a game of "Sorry", when she stopped and told me that she was ready to ask Jesus to come into her heart. Needless to say, I was crying tears of joy. Mike and I made certain she understood what she was doing and then she prayed her prayer. We are so thankful for God's grace, and the ultimate price He paid on Calvary so that we could have eternal life with Him one day.
The past weeks have not been without some challenges and struggle, but we are thankful for each and every day with our new daughter. She has so much promise and "HOPE" for her life. What an honor to be a part of it!!
Mike and Viktorija will be taking a trip to Latvia for the second court date next month. They'll be gone from May 17-21. Thankfully it is not a long trip. Viktorija is excited about the possibility of seeing her foster sisters and foster brother, but also a bit apprehensive about returning to the place she was so anxious to leave. Please pray for their safe travels. I will be staying home to continue working, and taking care of our pups. Since only one parent is required to make the trip, we have decided it best, financially, that I stay home and "hold down the fort". There will be one final trip to follow. So, by mid-Summer we hope that all of the traveling is behind us. We are anxious to continue our journey as a family. Who knows what God has in store for us next?!?!
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Much love,
Mike, Julie, and Viktorija Hope Vanhoy
