Julia Update

I have had some annoying internet issues lately so I have not been able to update on the prayer request I shared below. Sorry.

We went before the judge in his chambers just to be told that he cannot hear the case. Apparently there was a circular that went out (a new mandate) that all cases involving children traveling abroad with foreigners must now be heard in Nairobi. That was frustrating news because we first tried to pursue guardianship in Nairobi in April-May, but since we knew we were moving to Nakuru we were told we had to go through Nakuru courts. 

Our lawyer immediately went to Nairobi and was there Thursday morning to inquire and file the case. Long story/process short: we cannot obtain guardianship with permission to travel in enough time for Julia to go with me to Kris's wedding. 

Nairobi courts are much more tough and scrutinizing than Nakuru (or any other) courts. Their ultimate issue is child trafficking. I understand that, but it makes things very difficult. Also, courts go on break from this Wednesday, August 4th until September 15th, making it even more impossible to complete the task in time. We were aware of this, but in Nakuru we would file as a "case of urgency." In Nairobi that would be considered a red flag and would be like a strike against us. 

So...back to Square One. We will apply for plain guardianship, with no permission to travel, in Nakuru. Then we will go to Nairobi to pursue permission to travel with a child I already have guardianship of. 

What a roller-coaster ride! I was never a huge fan of roller-coasters, and I like them even less when they are metaphorical! 

Later post coming about the implications of all of this.