Hi all,
Last night was our last group dinner, and it was really good. We also tried Benadryl last night (ahem) to see what it will do if we need it on the plane. I didn't notice much difference until she went to sleep, and she was OUT. I had to get up a few times and poke her to be sure she was alive. She slept for almost 10 hours. NICE.
Today Jason, Vivian and I took the subway to Hangshua, which was really crazy. It was very poor and kind of scary. Then we got to a market-type thing where we saw a bunch of stalls with medical equipment (weird?) and then some hanging meat that made me very nauseous. Then we arrived at the herb and dried item market. We saw dried seahorses and dried snakes, among other things. Daddy got some good photos while Mommy was green and Vivi was chilling in the stroller. Then we went to Shamian Island to finish shopping. We found some great things for Vivian today!!
This afternoon we watched the video CHI made of Gotcha Day, and it was very sweet. We have our own copy! Then the dad that went to Leizhou to the orphanage showed us his photos, which were great, and he will burn those and mail them to us. He did get photos of the more "common" areas of the orphanage (not where the kids actually are), and of Martyrs Park, where Vivian was found. We think he got a picture of the exact place where she was -- it's a memorial obelisk in the Park.
Afterwards we went to the US Consulate and did our oath and received Vivian's Chinese passport with Visa. I think she has dual citizenship. Once we land in the US she will be an American, but will retain her Chinese passport until its expiration. The person at the Consulate did advise us to have her travel with her US passport from now on. DUH
It was SO cute -- one of the moms brought little American flags for all the families, and Vivian walked to the Consulate waving her American flag with glee. I'm sure the Chinese didn't appreciate us parading our Chinese baby with an American flag, but heh, we're outta here tomorrow! :) She's proud to be an American!! Oh, in true Vivian style she fell asleep as we were waiting to take the oath. Her response to boring government bureaucracy....sleep.
We are SO SO SO glad to be leaving tomorrow morning! We did find out that our 9 am flight had been cancelled, but we got on the 10 am flight, so that lessens our layover in Beijing to about 3 hours. That's fine with us!! Even though Jason and I thought Newark was an armpit, we may kiss the ground when we land there. And our fellow passengers may do the same after the 13 hour flight with our little girl. Hopefully the Benadryl will help and she'll sleep. We leave Beijing at 3:45 pm, so hopefully she'll sleep some, since most of the flight will be after she normally goes to bed anyway (8:00 pm).
Packing -- so we bought a knockoff suitcase today for about US$7. Hopefully it'll make it all the way. Packing has begun, and so far it's going well. Who knew our carryons would be ALL ABOUT VIVIAN on the way home?!!??
Okay, we love you. Please pray for safe, easy travel tomorrow. :)
Rachael, Jason & Vivian
Friday, September 7, 2007
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Tuesday-Wednesday update
Hello all!
We've had a rough couple of days. Tuesday we did our Visa paperwork and hung out around here while Daddy went with some other folks in our group on a subway ride and to some monuments. Things were fine until bedtime, when Vivian melted down. She screamed and cried for 2 hours (9:00-11:00 pm), and we seriously thought we'd get kicked out of the hotel.
It was so bad that Daddy got in the crib with her! Yep, too bad the camera batteries were charging, because that would have been a great picture. Desperation at its finest. She woke up a couple of times in the night crying, but we were able to quickly get her back to sleep. We figured out the next morning that she has TWO new teeth coming in. That was the problem!
Yesterday (Wednesday) we went to the White Swan hotel for the famous "red couch" picture of the babies. She hated changing into her little traditional Chinese dress, so she was already a grump. Of the 7 babies on the couch, 5 were crying - great photo! Then we took group photos, which were a little better. After that we had to do the medical examination for the babies to leave China. She was very good (asleep, actually), until they took her pants off to see that she was indeed a girl. She weighed 7.4 kilograms, or about 16 pounds. Yep, she's a hoss. :)
After the medical exam we went to a jade/pearl outlet type mall, and Vivian and I got matching jade necklaces. Then we went to lunch and shopped at Shamian Island. We got her a bunch of neat things to give her on Gotcha Day each year.
Last night when we got back we tried to have a little nap, but we had to get the stroller out to make that happen. Finally she slept for an hour. We went to dinner last night on the 40th floor of our hotel at a fancy Italian restaurant that overlooks the city. It was very pretty, but Vivian was quite the finicky eater. She would only eat Gerber Graduates and Cheerios. Daddy tried to give her ice cream at the end, and she hated it!! That was the worst face we've gotten when trying to eat something -- even our strange waitress laughed.
Bedtime was better last night, thanks to baby orajel and motrin. I think her teeth are finally poking through, but she's still chewing on everything.
Today we're staying in our rooms for a while because our guides are at the American Consulate with our paperwork, and we have to be easily reachable in case there are questions. This afternoon one of us will go to a knock-off market with the group to look for a suitcase and maybe some faux Gucci or Prada items. Tomorrow we'll probably go to a crazy Chinese market and finish our shopping, and tomorrow afternoon we'll take the oath and get her Chinese passport.
Oh, tonight we're planning on trying the baby Benadryl just in case we need it on the plane. Hopefully it'll have the drowsy effect, and not the hyperactive effect.
We're VERY ready to come home. I would love some real iced tea, and I can't wait to brush my teeth in the sink with faucet water! This trip has been about 4-5 days too long. Oh well!
Oh, grandmas - Vivian ate scrambled egg this morning, so finally some protein for the little carb-head.
We love you and miss you!
We've had a rough couple of days. Tuesday we did our Visa paperwork and hung out around here while Daddy went with some other folks in our group on a subway ride and to some monuments. Things were fine until bedtime, when Vivian melted down. She screamed and cried for 2 hours (9:00-11:00 pm), and we seriously thought we'd get kicked out of the hotel.
It was so bad that Daddy got in the crib with her! Yep, too bad the camera batteries were charging, because that would have been a great picture. Desperation at its finest. She woke up a couple of times in the night crying, but we were able to quickly get her back to sleep. We figured out the next morning that she has TWO new teeth coming in. That was the problem!
Yesterday (Wednesday) we went to the White Swan hotel for the famous "red couch" picture of the babies. She hated changing into her little traditional Chinese dress, so she was already a grump. Of the 7 babies on the couch, 5 were crying - great photo! Then we took group photos, which were a little better. After that we had to do the medical examination for the babies to leave China. She was very good (asleep, actually), until they took her pants off to see that she was indeed a girl. She weighed 7.4 kilograms, or about 16 pounds. Yep, she's a hoss. :)
After the medical exam we went to a jade/pearl outlet type mall, and Vivian and I got matching jade necklaces. Then we went to lunch and shopped at Shamian Island. We got her a bunch of neat things to give her on Gotcha Day each year.
Last night when we got back we tried to have a little nap, but we had to get the stroller out to make that happen. Finally she slept for an hour. We went to dinner last night on the 40th floor of our hotel at a fancy Italian restaurant that overlooks the city. It was very pretty, but Vivian was quite the finicky eater. She would only eat Gerber Graduates and Cheerios. Daddy tried to give her ice cream at the end, and she hated it!! That was the worst face we've gotten when trying to eat something -- even our strange waitress laughed.
Bedtime was better last night, thanks to baby orajel and motrin. I think her teeth are finally poking through, but she's still chewing on everything.
Today we're staying in our rooms for a while because our guides are at the American Consulate with our paperwork, and we have to be easily reachable in case there are questions. This afternoon one of us will go to a knock-off market with the group to look for a suitcase and maybe some faux Gucci or Prada items. Tomorrow we'll probably go to a crazy Chinese market and finish our shopping, and tomorrow afternoon we'll take the oath and get her Chinese passport.
Oh, tonight we're planning on trying the baby Benadryl just in case we need it on the plane. Hopefully it'll have the drowsy effect, and not the hyperactive effect.
We're VERY ready to come home. I would love some real iced tea, and I can't wait to brush my teeth in the sink with faucet water! This trip has been about 4-5 days too long. Oh well!
Oh, grandmas - Vivian ate scrambled egg this morning, so finally some protein for the little carb-head.
We love you and miss you!
Monday, September 3, 2007
Pictures!!
Mmmm cheeseburgers!
Vivian and Maya playing together. Their cribs were next to each other at the orphanage, and Maya's family is very nice!
Vivian laughing at Daddy - she has FOUR teeth (we were mistaken on day one). 2 on the bottom and 2 on the top.
Tuesday morning
Hi all!
Sorry we've been lax about blogging - we've had busy days and some crying fits when trying to sleep. Monday we went sightseeing at Beiyun Mountain. It was pretty, but still very hot, until we had a rain shower. We went to eat as a group, and then came back to the hotel. Vivian didn't get a great morning nap, so she was fussy for her afternoon nap. Finally after a big crying fit she was out! Late yesterday afternoon Daddy and Vivian went walking in the park by our hotel, and they saw a huge waterfall/fountain. Mommy was glad for the quiet time, but missed her little girl.
Last night we had dinner and then strolled around IKEA store near our hotel. It was nice, and Vivian was a little gem in her stroller. She likes the room key.
Speaking of likes, here are some of her dislikes:
Sprite - yes, we are bad parents, but it was just a sip as an experiment. Projectile spitting!!
Fruit of any kind - banana made a good showing last week, but not today. So far we don't like cantaloupe, watermelon, kiwi or strawberry smoothie.
Beef noodle - nope, slimey and not having it.
KFC mashed potatoes - really, who does like these?
When she doesn't like something, it's very obvious. It comes rolling out immediately, sometimes with force!
She likes:
Congee - especially chicken or pork congee.
Cheerios and Gerber Graduates.
Crackers - regular saltines.
Fried rice.
Rice cereal.
Mac & cheese.
Scrambled eggs.
I'm seeing a theme here. LOTS OF CARBS!
We got her some squeaky sandals, but she didn't love them when we tried yesterday. So far she's pretty agreeable about clothes and getting dressed.
Today we're doing paperwork for her VISA. We found out this morning that one of the dads in our group is gone to Leizhou today!! This couple is very nice, and the mom's uncle lives in Beijing, and her dad is here with them. So dad, grandpa and uncle took off this morning for the long trip to Leizhou. It's about 200 miles away - probably on windy strange roads. This dad is the one who's the other documentary filmmaker of the trip, and he's going to share lots of pictures and video from Leizhou. Our guides called the orphanage to tell them they're coming, and they're going to get to visit! They may not be able to see everything, but at least they'll get to visit. The dad is also going to try to take pictures of all the Leizhou girls' finding spots, if possible. We're so blessed to have this family with us -- he has been wonderful about taking LOTS of pictures of all the girls. Needless to say, we can't wait to hear how the trip goes today!!
Tonight we have the option of going on a river boat cruise on the Pearl River. If Vivian has a good afternoon nap we're going to try to go. If not, Daddy will go and Mommy and Vivian will stay back at the hotel. Our poor little girl needs a routine!
Okay, we love you and will update again soon!
Sorry we've been lax about blogging - we've had busy days and some crying fits when trying to sleep. Monday we went sightseeing at Beiyun Mountain. It was pretty, but still very hot, until we had a rain shower. We went to eat as a group, and then came back to the hotel. Vivian didn't get a great morning nap, so she was fussy for her afternoon nap. Finally after a big crying fit she was out! Late yesterday afternoon Daddy and Vivian went walking in the park by our hotel, and they saw a huge waterfall/fountain. Mommy was glad for the quiet time, but missed her little girl.
Last night we had dinner and then strolled around IKEA store near our hotel. It was nice, and Vivian was a little gem in her stroller. She likes the room key.
Speaking of likes, here are some of her dislikes:
Sprite - yes, we are bad parents, but it was just a sip as an experiment. Projectile spitting!!
Fruit of any kind - banana made a good showing last week, but not today. So far we don't like cantaloupe, watermelon, kiwi or strawberry smoothie.
Beef noodle - nope, slimey and not having it.
KFC mashed potatoes - really, who does like these?
When she doesn't like something, it's very obvious. It comes rolling out immediately, sometimes with force!
She likes:
Congee - especially chicken or pork congee.
Cheerios and Gerber Graduates.
Crackers - regular saltines.
Fried rice.
Rice cereal.
Mac & cheese.
Scrambled eggs.
I'm seeing a theme here. LOTS OF CARBS!
We got her some squeaky sandals, but she didn't love them when we tried yesterday. So far she's pretty agreeable about clothes and getting dressed.
Today we're doing paperwork for her VISA. We found out this morning that one of the dads in our group is gone to Leizhou today!! This couple is very nice, and the mom's uncle lives in Beijing, and her dad is here with them. So dad, grandpa and uncle took off this morning for the long trip to Leizhou. It's about 200 miles away - probably on windy strange roads. This dad is the one who's the other documentary filmmaker of the trip, and he's going to share lots of pictures and video from Leizhou. Our guides called the orphanage to tell them they're coming, and they're going to get to visit! They may not be able to see everything, but at least they'll get to visit. The dad is also going to try to take pictures of all the Leizhou girls' finding spots, if possible. We're so blessed to have this family with us -- he has been wonderful about taking LOTS of pictures of all the girls. Needless to say, we can't wait to hear how the trip goes today!!
Tonight we have the option of going on a river boat cruise on the Pearl River. If Vivian has a good afternoon nap we're going to try to go. If not, Daddy will go and Mommy and Vivian will stay back at the hotel. Our poor little girl needs a routine!
Okay, we love you and will update again soon!
Saturday, September 1, 2007
We miss America
Hello all!
Yesterday was MUCH better for Vivian. We went to the Guangzhou Zoo and she had a good nap in her stroller. There were lots of cool animals, and they were very easy to see. We saw ONE panda, but she was sleeping. Vivian woke up about 2/3 the way through the zoo and enjoyed some crackers. She also did a big stinky for us, so we had to change her on a bench. EW.
Then we went to a dumpling restaurant, and it was really good. When we got back to the hotel she had a 2 hour nap and was really sweet.
Yesterday morning she was coughing and snotty, so after talking to the doctor and the pediatric nurse in our group we agreed to start the antibiotics. She took it like a champ and it seems to be helping. Hopefully whatever it is will be knocked out by the time we go to the medical exam next week.
So last night we took a cab to a nearby mall - it's the 5th largest mall in the world. We walked around a bit, and we tried to feed her mashed potatoes from KFC. Granny & Nana -- she did NOT like their potatoes, so ya'll are going to have to show her what the real thing tastes like. Everywhere we went people were staring at us, and it made me really uncomfortable. I felt like WE were the animals at the zoo. I didn't see any other Americans at the mall, so I guess we were an oddity. We did find a Starbucks, and that was good. BTW, I went to the bathroom at the mall and all they had were squatty potties. GROSS. I just couldn't do it....wimp.
This mall had the supermarket/Wal-Mart store like we went in the other day, and we decided to get more formula, diapers and rice cereal. BIG MISTAKE. Imagine the day after Thanksgiving at WalMart when it opens. Now multiply that by 10 and everyone is Chinese. The signs are in Chinese, people don't form lines at the 2 checkouts you can find, etc. Add in a really squirmy baby who crawls out of the buggy. Yep, it was bad. Finally we found our way out and took a cab back to the hotel. For the first time we were really homesick and ready to come back to America and the nice Publix in Franklin.
Today we're going back to Shamian Island for shopping. I'll update with more pictures later.
We love you and miss you!!
Yesterday was MUCH better for Vivian. We went to the Guangzhou Zoo and she had a good nap in her stroller. There were lots of cool animals, and they were very easy to see. We saw ONE panda, but she was sleeping. Vivian woke up about 2/3 the way through the zoo and enjoyed some crackers. She also did a big stinky for us, so we had to change her on a bench. EW.
Then we went to a dumpling restaurant, and it was really good. When we got back to the hotel she had a 2 hour nap and was really sweet.
Yesterday morning she was coughing and snotty, so after talking to the doctor and the pediatric nurse in our group we agreed to start the antibiotics. She took it like a champ and it seems to be helping. Hopefully whatever it is will be knocked out by the time we go to the medical exam next week.
So last night we took a cab to a nearby mall - it's the 5th largest mall in the world. We walked around a bit, and we tried to feed her mashed potatoes from KFC. Granny & Nana -- she did NOT like their potatoes, so ya'll are going to have to show her what the real thing tastes like. Everywhere we went people were staring at us, and it made me really uncomfortable. I felt like WE were the animals at the zoo. I didn't see any other Americans at the mall, so I guess we were an oddity. We did find a Starbucks, and that was good. BTW, I went to the bathroom at the mall and all they had were squatty potties. GROSS. I just couldn't do it....wimp.
This mall had the supermarket/Wal-Mart store like we went in the other day, and we decided to get more formula, diapers and rice cereal. BIG MISTAKE. Imagine the day after Thanksgiving at WalMart when it opens. Now multiply that by 10 and everyone is Chinese. The signs are in Chinese, people don't form lines at the 2 checkouts you can find, etc. Add in a really squirmy baby who crawls out of the buggy. Yep, it was bad. Finally we found our way out and took a cab back to the hotel. For the first time we were really homesick and ready to come back to America and the nice Publix in Franklin.
Today we're going back to Shamian Island for shopping. I'll update with more pictures later.
We love you and miss you!!
Friday, August 31, 2007
Friday
Hi all!
This morning we went to the Yuexin park (the largest park in the city) where we saw some statues and people playing hackeysack and ballroom dancing. It was cool - retired people go there every morning to do Tai Chi and dance. Vivian slept only 20-30 minutes on the bus and on us. It was SO hot that we were all dripping after the park.
Then we went to the Chen Clan Temple, and that was really neat. It's not a religious temple; more of a family/museum type thing. We saw the world's most beautiful and exquisite embroidery and some really neat carvings and furniture. We also bought a long scroll to hang on the wall with Vivian's Chinese name painted on it. She was very good in the stroller, but we were all so hot that it was hard to enjoy for more than a couple of hours or so.
We came back to the hotel expecting her to nap, and all hell broke loose. She was a maniac today! Mommy had to get into the mini-bar at about 3:00 and have a glass of wine. She was playing like crazy, then acting tired so we tried to change her and do the nap routine, but NO! She was not having it. When Vivian cries it's a full-on red face scrunch with a scream!! We even tried the Baby Einstein video John K gave us - we should get our money back if our baby cries during Baby Einstein, right? My sternum is bruised from her pushing off me when she realized we were doing snuggly night night routine.
The highlight on this stressful day is that Vivian learned to clap her hands and smile!! If we do it and go "YEAH!" she will do it -- it's SO cute!!
Anyway, we finally went to the restaurant here and filled her full of congee. We had bath and bottle, and played a little more, and then we put her in the crib with a couple of toys. She is FINALLY asleep. YEAH!!! (we are clapping and smiling)
Tomorrow we're supposed to go to the Zoo, bu I'm dreading it because we'll leave at 9:00 and probably won't get back until 1:30 or so, and I'm afraid naps will be disrupted again.
By the way, Thursday Jason went with our guide and another Mom from the group to a Spa, and he had a 2 hour massage! Guess how much it was? 108 Yuan - or about 17 dollars. I NEED ONE SOON!!
We're off to watch a movie and go to sleep after our crazy day. I guess it was our turn to have a cranky baby!
We love you and miss you!!
This morning we went to the Yuexin park (the largest park in the city) where we saw some statues and people playing hackeysack and ballroom dancing. It was cool - retired people go there every morning to do Tai Chi and dance. Vivian slept only 20-30 minutes on the bus and on us. It was SO hot that we were all dripping after the park.
Then we went to the Chen Clan Temple, and that was really neat. It's not a religious temple; more of a family/museum type thing. We saw the world's most beautiful and exquisite embroidery and some really neat carvings and furniture. We also bought a long scroll to hang on the wall with Vivian's Chinese name painted on it. She was very good in the stroller, but we were all so hot that it was hard to enjoy for more than a couple of hours or so.
We came back to the hotel expecting her to nap, and all hell broke loose. She was a maniac today! Mommy had to get into the mini-bar at about 3:00 and have a glass of wine. She was playing like crazy, then acting tired so we tried to change her and do the nap routine, but NO! She was not having it. When Vivian cries it's a full-on red face scrunch with a scream!! We even tried the Baby Einstein video John K gave us - we should get our money back if our baby cries during Baby Einstein, right? My sternum is bruised from her pushing off me when she realized we were doing snuggly night night routine.
The highlight on this stressful day is that Vivian learned to clap her hands and smile!! If we do it and go "YEAH!" she will do it -- it's SO cute!!
Anyway, we finally went to the restaurant here and filled her full of congee. We had bath and bottle, and played a little more, and then we put her in the crib with a couple of toys. She is FINALLY asleep. YEAH!!! (we are clapping and smiling)
Tomorrow we're supposed to go to the Zoo, bu I'm dreading it because we'll leave at 9:00 and probably won't get back until 1:30 or so, and I'm afraid naps will be disrupted again.
By the way, Thursday Jason went with our guide and another Mom from the group to a Spa, and he had a 2 hour massage! Guess how much it was? 108 Yuan - or about 17 dollars. I NEED ONE SOON!!
We're off to watch a movie and go to sleep after our crazy day. I guess it was our turn to have a cranky baby!
We love you and miss you!!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Thursday - more pictures
Hi all,
Vivian is about to finish her nap, so I thought I'd upload some photos! Bathtime went great last night - she was really fun and happy! We went to the pool today for a little while; see our little swimsuit model? This afternoon we went to the mall across the street with big girl in her stroller. She loved strolling while holding Daddy's finger.
Having another good day here. Will update more later.
Love,
Rachael & Jason
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Wednesday - fun stuff!
Vivian has really showed all her tricks today! First of all, we had a blow out diaper this morning, so I guess we had payback for all the food last night at the Sichuan restaurant. After we had breakfast (congee) we played in the room for a long time. She crawls, pulls up and took a couple of steps while I held her hands! She's rolling all around and feeling much more secure; many more smiles this afternoon. Tonight was the best! She laughed out loud and squealed at her silly Daddy!! We videotaped - don't worry. :)
So this afternoon we went to apply for her Chinese passport, which just involved showing our passports to some officials and getting her photo taken. After that we went to Shamian Island to shop. We got her an orange stroller (go UT) and a really sweet dress for this winter. We also went to Starbucks, but it was SO hot that I couldn't do anything but drink bottled water.
Tonight when we got back to the hotel the bathtime went really well. She played and let us wash her hair. Did we mention she has grubby feet and a grubby belly button? Hopefully by the time we get home she'll be all clean and pretty.
Her cold seems to be getting better with the children's Dimetapp. She's snotty, but sounds less congested when she breathes. A couple of times I thought she was Tater with her breathing. :) We miss our animals and our house, but are having fun! Tiffany - how are the dogs and Prudence? Have they forgotten who we are yet?
The Chinese are very nice and accomodating. We went to a local baby store (tiny with no air conditioning) today to get smaller diapers, and the girls there were curious and then tried to tell us we shouldn't let her suck her thumb. Guess they haven't read "Attaching in Adoption." Hee Hee One thing at a time!
BTW, the 6-9 months clothes seem to work okay. Today at Shamian Island several of the shop girls kept saying, "so tiny" at Vivian. They all asked how old and where she come from. By the way, you say her town Leizhou, Lay-Joe with a hard accent on the Joe.
Okay, Papa Johns just delivered! Gotta eat and see if we can get our spoiled Princess to settle down to sleep. Now that she's learned how much we love her tricks and partying she's fighting sleep a bit.
We love you and will update tomorrow!
So this afternoon we went to apply for her Chinese passport, which just involved showing our passports to some officials and getting her photo taken. After that we went to Shamian Island to shop. We got her an orange stroller (go UT) and a really sweet dress for this winter. We also went to Starbucks, but it was SO hot that I couldn't do anything but drink bottled water.
Tonight when we got back to the hotel the bathtime went really well. She played and let us wash her hair. Did we mention she has grubby feet and a grubby belly button? Hopefully by the time we get home she'll be all clean and pretty.
Her cold seems to be getting better with the children's Dimetapp. She's snotty, but sounds less congested when she breathes. A couple of times I thought she was Tater with her breathing. :) We miss our animals and our house, but are having fun! Tiffany - how are the dogs and Prudence? Have they forgotten who we are yet?
The Chinese are very nice and accomodating. We went to a local baby store (tiny with no air conditioning) today to get smaller diapers, and the girls there were curious and then tried to tell us we shouldn't let her suck her thumb. Guess they haven't read "Attaching in Adoption." Hee Hee One thing at a time!
BTW, the 6-9 months clothes seem to work okay. Today at Shamian Island several of the shop girls kept saying, "so tiny" at Vivian. They all asked how old and where she come from. By the way, you say her town Leizhou, Lay-Joe with a hard accent on the Joe.
Okay, Papa Johns just delivered! Gotta eat and see if we can get our spoiled Princess to settle down to sleep. Now that she's learned how much we love her tricks and partying she's fighting sleep a bit.
We love you and will update tomorrow!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Wednesday
Okay, I promised some more pictures! We're having a good day so far! Vivian paid us back for the pumpkin and rice/spinach this morning -- WHEW, gross. She's a little congested, but still feeling okay. Today we're going to the police station to apply for her Chinese passport, and then we'll go shopping at Shamian Island. We'll be able to buy a little stroller there and some clothes and souvenirs. Jason and I are loving every minute of this; even though it would be great to be home we're enjoying the constant time with Vivian. She is a joy, and we can't wait for everyone to meet her. :)
More later!! Have a good day/night.
It's Official!
Today's highlights:
We are finally, officially Vivian's parents! We went back to the adoption center today to finalize the paperwork, and it went smoothly. CHI (our agency) is fantastic, and they've really made everything easy. We had our picture made together, answered some questions and signed some paperwork. Vivian was a doll, and slept on the bus a little bit.
After that we went to a local Supermarket (kind of like a multi-story WalMart) to get formula, rice cereal, etc. It was really different than Super WalMart; especially the "deli" section, which was on the 3rd floor. At one point I just had to hold my breath and walk quickly to avoid the smells. Lots of fish and weird things lying around in tubs, although I guess it looked clean?
Our arms were really tired, so we put her in the shopping cart for a little bit -- big girl! She liked it okay and didn't cry. After we were finished shopping Jason sat outside to wait on the rest of the group while I ran in for something we forgot. When I came out he showed me his wet shorts and her wet sock -- she peed all over him! HAHAHA He's really a dad now. :)
When we got back to the hotel she played and played and then finally sacked out for a nap. We followed suit, and felt MUCH better. Tonight we went to dinner at a local Sichuan place with our guides. It was SPICY food!! Vivian ate Gerber graduates (of course), and she ate some rice with spinach and sliced boiled pumpkin...so far she's a good eater.
After dinner we came back to the hotel and tried to bathe her. Notsomuch tonight. She screamed and cried with real tears and hurt feelings face. It was terrible! We skipped washing her hair tonight and just wet it quickly because she was wailing so much. Oh well...we were due.
Jason gave her a bottle and we danced and rocked, and she's out like a light. Hopefully she'll have another good night's sleep tonight.
We're finally starting to see little glimpses of her personality, and we had a couple of little smiles today. It was wonderful, and it almost catches my breath to love her this much. Nothing feels better than holding her and feeling her little face against mine. She loves her daddy a lot, too, and discovered his earring today! She's one of the few babies in our group who will go to mommy and daddy just the same. Jason has been a real trooper with the diapers, although I did get the gigantic poop one today, but he examined it to be sure all was well. YEP, we're gross!
Okay, we're tired and going to watch some TV. We love you and miss you, and the prayers are working -- she's an angel!
BTW, I promise more pictures soon!!
We are finally, officially Vivian's parents! We went back to the adoption center today to finalize the paperwork, and it went smoothly. CHI (our agency) is fantastic, and they've really made everything easy. We had our picture made together, answered some questions and signed some paperwork. Vivian was a doll, and slept on the bus a little bit.
After that we went to a local Supermarket (kind of like a multi-story WalMart) to get formula, rice cereal, etc. It was really different than Super WalMart; especially the "deli" section, which was on the 3rd floor. At one point I just had to hold my breath and walk quickly to avoid the smells. Lots of fish and weird things lying around in tubs, although I guess it looked clean?
Our arms were really tired, so we put her in the shopping cart for a little bit -- big girl! She liked it okay and didn't cry. After we were finished shopping Jason sat outside to wait on the rest of the group while I ran in for something we forgot. When I came out he showed me his wet shorts and her wet sock -- she peed all over him! HAHAHA He's really a dad now. :)
When we got back to the hotel she played and played and then finally sacked out for a nap. We followed suit, and felt MUCH better. Tonight we went to dinner at a local Sichuan place with our guides. It was SPICY food!! Vivian ate Gerber graduates (of course), and she ate some rice with spinach and sliced boiled pumpkin...so far she's a good eater.
After dinner we came back to the hotel and tried to bathe her. Notsomuch tonight. She screamed and cried with real tears and hurt feelings face. It was terrible! We skipped washing her hair tonight and just wet it quickly because she was wailing so much. Oh well...we were due.
Jason gave her a bottle and we danced and rocked, and she's out like a light. Hopefully she'll have another good night's sleep tonight.
We're finally starting to see little glimpses of her personality, and we had a couple of little smiles today. It was wonderful, and it almost catches my breath to love her this much. Nothing feels better than holding her and feeling her little face against mine. She loves her daddy a lot, too, and discovered his earring today! She's one of the few babies in our group who will go to mommy and daddy just the same. Jason has been a real trooper with the diapers, although I did get the gigantic poop one today, but he examined it to be sure all was well. YEP, we're gross!
Okay, we're tired and going to watch some TV. We love you and miss you, and the prayers are working -- she's an angel!
BTW, I promise more pictures soon!!
Monday, August 27, 2007
A family!!
We have our sweet Vivian!
Today was a whirlwind, but here we go:
After arriving at the local adoption center, we immediately were given our babies. Jason took her first (I stood there for a split second in shock?), and she didn't make a peep. She looked worried, and has for most of the day, but she was great. After having her for a few minutes she settled in on my shoulder, sucked her thumb and went to sleep!! While others' babies were screaming ours had just snuggled in for a nap. Somehow the CCAA knew we loved to nap, and would appreciate a sleepy one! Actually, the babies had traveled 6 hours this morning, and they didn't nap on the way, so little Vivian was pooped.
We went to another big room to have time to get acquainted with the children and talk to the nannies (with translation help). Vivian did cry a few big tears there, but nothing we couldn't handle. Miraculously the 2 sets of first-time parents got very easy babies! WHEW.
On the way back on the bus she fell asleep again in my arms, but woke up once we got off the elevator and came into our room. She whimpers a little, but has only really cried once. We've snuggled a lot, and Jason fed her Gerber graduates. Then we bathed her - we're total rookies and didn't know what we were doing, but she was pretty patient. So far no poopie, but we're expecting it soon. Tonight we made her bottle as instructed (powered formula + rice cereal), and she ate the WHOLE thing! Actually, we did have to cut big holes in the nipple, but once we did she pigged out. After eating and trying to burp, we laid her in the crib with her toy and she went right to sleep.
She's a big thumb sucker - we may have trouble with this later, but for now it's very cute. :) She's REALLY tiny - the 9 month pajamas are too big. She has lots of hair, as you will see, and she has TWO teeth (on the bottom)! She seems really healthy, and doesn't have any major scars or boo-boos. Most of the babies have a couple of little sores/scabs on their heads, and Vivian has a little bump on her arm and her neck. BTW, her eyelashes are BEAUTIFUL! They're so long and very black, and her eyes are beautiful and dark. She is very curious and watches everything you do.
The nannies couldn't remember exactly when she got her teeth, but they did say she is trying to walk and has taken 2 steps. They said she is a good baby and doesn't cry all the time. YEAH! They also gave us a little book with more photos of her at the orphanage.
Okay, we're tired and are going to rest. We have another big day tomorrow!!
We love you and hope you enjoy the pictures!!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Guangzhou!
We made it to Guangzhou today! Early this morning we got up and had breakfast at the hotel in Beijing, then went to sightsee. It started pouring rain, so we weren't able to sightsee long, but we did get pictures of Tianeman Square and Forbidden City.
Highlights from breakfast:
The coffee was bitter and strong! It did the trick, though.
So it was a buffet with little signs for things. 2 that cracked us up were: Fried Greed (which was actually boiled broccoli and leeks), and "Non-Muslim Food."
I tried Congee this morning, since apparently all the babies love it. Picture plump grits that are very watery. And that's about what it tasted like.
They had some black egg yolks on a spoon - we didn't try that - and baked beans.
The bacon was good (Kozmo), and the potatoes were wonderful!
The flight to Guangzhou was on China Air, and it was about 3 hours. On the plane we discovered there are Chinese versions of our friends! We saw a Chinese John G, a Chinese Summer, and a ringer Chinese Alana.
Guangzhou is another large city in China - about 10 million people. Flying in we went over lots of crop fields - rice, maybe? - with little villages that seemed very poor. Once in Guangzhou we drove across the city, and there are tons of highrise apartment buildings that look New York-ish, but with laundry hanging on the balcony.
The Westin is incredible - definitely the nicest hotel I've stayed in! It's VERY modern, and our room is beautiful. The best part was walking in and seeing Vivian's sweet little crib all ready to go! We also have our Going Home Barbie - a white barbie with a little chinese baby. I'm not kidding!
Tomorrow morning we'll go to the bank to change some money, and we leave at 1:45 to go to the local adoption center to get the babies! So while you're sleeping Sunday night we will meet Vivian for the first time. :) After we get the babies we will go to the store for formula and diapers, and then Tuesday we'll do more adoption paperwork.
Our travel group is very nice, and our guides/coordinators are super helpful. Tonight we went to a Chinese restaurant nearby that was authentic. I saw lots of hooves and strange things going by. Our guides ordered for us, so we didn't have anything too weird. BTW, we have met Jason's long lost paparazzi twin! He's in our travel group, and he and Jason are the documentary film crew.
This morning we both woke up and realized it's our last day as DINKs (dual-income no kids), but more importantly, it's Vivian's last day without a family. I hope she realizes soon how much we all love her.
One last thing: there are 3 nurses and a doctor in our travel group, so I feel good in case she's sick when we get her tomorrow. There are also some experienced parents with us, including one with a little girl from China, and they're back to get her sister.
Pray for us a lot as we are in the final hours of bringing Vivian into our lives!!
We love you!
Highlights from breakfast:
The coffee was bitter and strong! It did the trick, though.
So it was a buffet with little signs for things. 2 that cracked us up were: Fried Greed (which was actually boiled broccoli and leeks), and "Non-Muslim Food."
I tried Congee this morning, since apparently all the babies love it. Picture plump grits that are very watery. And that's about what it tasted like.
They had some black egg yolks on a spoon - we didn't try that - and baked beans.
The bacon was good (Kozmo), and the potatoes were wonderful!
The flight to Guangzhou was on China Air, and it was about 3 hours. On the plane we discovered there are Chinese versions of our friends! We saw a Chinese John G, a Chinese Summer, and a ringer Chinese Alana.
Guangzhou is another large city in China - about 10 million people. Flying in we went over lots of crop fields - rice, maybe? - with little villages that seemed very poor. Once in Guangzhou we drove across the city, and there are tons of highrise apartment buildings that look New York-ish, but with laundry hanging on the balcony.
The Westin is incredible - definitely the nicest hotel I've stayed in! It's VERY modern, and our room is beautiful. The best part was walking in and seeing Vivian's sweet little crib all ready to go! We also have our Going Home Barbie - a white barbie with a little chinese baby. I'm not kidding!
Tomorrow morning we'll go to the bank to change some money, and we leave at 1:45 to go to the local adoption center to get the babies! So while you're sleeping Sunday night we will meet Vivian for the first time. :) After we get the babies we will go to the store for formula and diapers, and then Tuesday we'll do more adoption paperwork.
Our travel group is very nice, and our guides/coordinators are super helpful. Tonight we went to a Chinese restaurant nearby that was authentic. I saw lots of hooves and strange things going by. Our guides ordered for us, so we didn't have anything too weird. BTW, we have met Jason's long lost paparazzi twin! He's in our travel group, and he and Jason are the documentary film crew.
This morning we both woke up and realized it's our last day as DINKs (dual-income no kids), but more importantly, it's Vivian's last day without a family. I hope she realizes soon how much we all love her.
One last thing: there are 3 nurses and a doctor in our travel group, so I feel good in case she's sick when we get her tomorrow. There are also some experienced parents with us, including one with a little girl from China, and they're back to get her sister.
Pray for us a lot as we are in the final hours of bringing Vivian into our lives!!
We love you!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Beijing!
DISCLAIMER: I'm trying to up date this typing in English, but all the prompts and buttons are in Chinese! Hopefully this will work.
Good morning from Beijing!
We got in on time, and the coordinator and driver for CHI met us at the
airport. They took us to the Great Wall to meet our group, and we
spent about an hour there. The Great Wall is beautiful, and really steep!
It took almost 2 hours to get back to the hotel on our group bus. The
people in our group seem nice - we just got to talk to those sitting
near us. There are 6 families (I think) going to Guangzhou tomorrow.
The others have babies in other provinces, and they'll come to
Guangzhou later.
We were so tired and dirty from flying and doing the Great Wall that we just took showers and
ordered room service. The food was good!
This morning we're up really early to go to Tianeman
Square and the Forbidden City. Then we'll meet our group and go to
the airport to go to Guangzhou.
We woke up this morning and realized we get Vivian TOMORROW! It's like Christmas Eve, but way better! :)
Okay, we'll check in later when we get settled at the Westin.
Good morning from Beijing!
We got in on time, and the coordinator and driver for CHI met us at the
airport. They took us to the Great Wall to meet our group, and we
spent about an hour there. The Great Wall is beautiful, and really steep!
It took almost 2 hours to get back to the hotel on our group bus. The
people in our group seem nice - we just got to talk to those sitting
near us. There are 6 families (I think) going to Guangzhou tomorrow.
The others have babies in other provinces, and they'll come to
Guangzhou later.
We were so tired and dirty from flying and doing the Great Wall that we just took showers and
ordered room service. The food was good!
This morning we're up really early to go to Tianeman
Square and the Forbidden City. Then we'll meet our group and go to
the airport to go to Guangzhou.
We woke up this morning and realized we get Vivian TOMORROW! It's like Christmas Eve, but way better! :)
Okay, we'll check in later when we get settled at the Westin.
Friday, August 24, 2007
The Griswalds go to China and God Bless Kate Clark & FedEx
So I thought I had married out of the Guess-Griswald connection, but apparently not. Little background: Trips/vacations in the Guess family usually involved all varieties of setbacks including speeding tickets, driver throwing up in a coffee cup in downtown Atlanta traffic (thanks, Laura), torrential rain while hovering in a tent, broken toe at Disneyworld, almost dying grandmother causing lateness to Sugar Bowl (priorities, people), bathing suit bottoms stolen from hotel balcony, etc.
Let's just say Jason and I have spent a little more time in Newark, NJ than we expected. This will be funny one day, but not right now. Anyway, Newark is an armpit. If you're from here, I'm extremely sorry, and I can't believe you made it out alive. Everything looks like an old Bruce Springsteen video. And I took a $30 cabride to Walgreens that was probably 2 1/2-3 miles away. Seriously?
I guess you're waiting for the story on WHY we spent extra time in Newark? Let's just say we forgot something very important, and had to enlist the stork, Kate Clark, and FedEx to get it to us. THIS is when you thank God for your friends....and rapid international shipping.
Okay, more later! Bye!!
Let's just say Jason and I have spent a little more time in Newark, NJ than we expected. This will be funny one day, but not right now. Anyway, Newark is an armpit. If you're from here, I'm extremely sorry, and I can't believe you made it out alive. Everything looks like an old Bruce Springsteen video. And I took a $30 cabride to Walgreens that was probably 2 1/2-3 miles away. Seriously?
I guess you're waiting for the story on WHY we spent extra time in Newark? Let's just say we forgot something very important, and had to enlist the stork, Kate Clark, and FedEx to get it to us. THIS is when you thank God for your friends....and rapid international shipping.
Okay, more later! Bye!!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Countdown!
And here we are...less than 48 hours from departing for China. We are excited, overwhelmed, unbelievably happy, and scared. We're going to do our best to blog and post pictures daily while we're in China, but please forgive if technology or tiredness wins!
By the way, we will be 13 hours AHEAD of you when we're in China (for those on Central Time).
Just a few more details on our travel:
We leave Nashville Thursday, August 23 at 6:30 am (YUCK, thanks Shane for taking us to the airport so early). After a layover in Newark, we'll fly to Beijing, and will arrive there Friday, August 24 at 1:45 pm. Jason and I plan to get our bearings, walk around a bit, settle into the hotel, etc.
Saturday, August 25 we have an organized sightseeing trip with the rest of our travel group from the agency. We'll see the Forbidden City, Tianeman Square, and the Great Wall.
Sunday, August 26 we'll fly to Guangzhou, arriving at 3:55 pm.
Monday, August 27 is GOTCHA DAY!! It's also my parents' wedding anniversary, so it's even more special for us. :) From what we've heard, it's quite surreal when you're handed your baby, and it happens very quickly. We're preparing ourselves for Vivian to grieve, fuss, shut-down, etc. for a few days, so extra prayers are needed during this time of transition.
Tuesday, August 28 we'll be starting the adoption paperwork, and will sightsee and have some free days between then and September 5. Hopefully we can enjoy the city and spend our time bonding with Vivian.
Thursday, September 6 we have our American Consulate appointment.
Friday, September 7 we take the official oath as Vivian's parents, and we receive her Visa to travel.
We leave Guangzhou Saturday, September 8 at 9:00 am with a stop in Beijing. From Beijing we'll fly to Newark, and will arrive in Nashville on Saturday at 10:09 pm.
How tired do you think we'll be upon arriving to Nashville???!!!
A special thank you to our families, who have showered us not only with money, supplies, diapers, etc., but with the support and strength we've needed along the way. We love you all very much!!
Look for an update Friday or Saturday from China!
By the way, we will be 13 hours AHEAD of you when we're in China (for those on Central Time).
Just a few more details on our travel:
We leave Nashville Thursday, August 23 at 6:30 am (YUCK, thanks Shane for taking us to the airport so early). After a layover in Newark, we'll fly to Beijing, and will arrive there Friday, August 24 at 1:45 pm. Jason and I plan to get our bearings, walk around a bit, settle into the hotel, etc.
Saturday, August 25 we have an organized sightseeing trip with the rest of our travel group from the agency. We'll see the Forbidden City, Tianeman Square, and the Great Wall.
Sunday, August 26 we'll fly to Guangzhou, arriving at 3:55 pm.
Monday, August 27 is GOTCHA DAY!! It's also my parents' wedding anniversary, so it's even more special for us. :) From what we've heard, it's quite surreal when you're handed your baby, and it happens very quickly. We're preparing ourselves for Vivian to grieve, fuss, shut-down, etc. for a few days, so extra prayers are needed during this time of transition.
Tuesday, August 28 we'll be starting the adoption paperwork, and will sightsee and have some free days between then and September 5. Hopefully we can enjoy the city and spend our time bonding with Vivian.
Thursday, September 6 we have our American Consulate appointment.
Friday, September 7 we take the official oath as Vivian's parents, and we receive her Visa to travel.
We leave Guangzhou Saturday, September 8 at 9:00 am with a stop in Beijing. From Beijing we'll fly to Newark, and will arrive in Nashville on Saturday at 10:09 pm.
How tired do you think we'll be upon arriving to Nashville???!!!
A special thank you to our families, who have showered us not only with money, supplies, diapers, etc., but with the support and strength we've needed along the way. We love you all very much!!
Look for an update Friday or Saturday from China!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Travel Plans!
We have our travel approval and consulate appointment - it's really happening! We leave Thursday, August 23 for China, and will receive Vivian (Gotcha Day) on Monday, August 27.
We'll be coming home on Saturday, September 8. Our plan is to blog as much as we can while we're away so we can share photos and videos of our little one.
Here's a little itinerary:
August 23 - leave the US
August 24 - arrive Beijing
August 24/25 - sightseeing in Beijing
August 26 - fly to Guangzhou
August 27 - Gotcha Day!
August 28-September 4 - sightseeing, free days and adoption appointments
September 5 - medical exam for children
September 6 - consulate appointment
September 7 - take oath and pick up Vivian's Visa
September 8 - leave China and arrive in the US
In Guangzhou we'll be staying with the other CHI families at the Westin - a brand new hotel. Check it out at: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1706
Our hotel in Beijing is the Wangfujing Grand Hotel.
www.wangfujinghotel.com
We'll keep you posted with photos and video while we're gone!
We'll be coming home on Saturday, September 8. Our plan is to blog as much as we can while we're away so we can share photos and videos of our little one.
Here's a little itinerary:
August 23 - leave the US
August 24 - arrive Beijing
August 24/25 - sightseeing in Beijing
August 26 - fly to Guangzhou
August 27 - Gotcha Day!
August 28-September 4 - sightseeing, free days and adoption appointments
September 5 - medical exam for children
September 6 - consulate appointment
September 7 - take oath and pick up Vivian's Visa
September 8 - leave China and arrive in the US
In Guangzhou we'll be staying with the other CHI families at the Westin - a brand new hotel. Check it out at: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1706
Our hotel in Beijing is the Wangfujing Grand Hotel.
www.wangfujinghotel.com
We'll keep you posted with photos and video while we're gone!
Friday, July 6, 2007
it's a girl!!!
Our referral is here!!!
Lei Yi Tai (means "delightful," "peaceful")
Born September 16, 2006 (almost 10 months old)
Leizhou Social Welfare Institute
Guangdong Province, China
She is healthy and beautiful! We think she's adorable!!
On May 11 she weighed 14 pounds and was almost 26 inches long, and no teeth yet.
We're in love!!!
Lei Yi Tai (means "delightful," "peaceful")
Born September 16, 2006 (almost 10 months old)
Leizhou Social Welfare Institute
Guangdong Province, China
She is healthy and beautiful! We think she's adorable!!
On May 11 she weighed 14 pounds and was almost 26 inches long, and no teeth yet.
We're in love!!!
Thursday, July 5, 2007
The Stork is Flying!!!
It is confirmed that referrals are on their way from China - they left July 4. Our agency has confirmed that DHL has 3 packages to be delivered tomorrow, Friday, July 6!! After two years, we are really about to see our baby's sweet face, and to know all about her. We'll update the blog tomorrow once we we get "the call" and are able to peel ourselves from the ceiling!
Thank you thank you thank you to everyone for your support, and thank you, God, for guiding us on this wild and wonderful roller-coaster! Please continue to pray that Vivian is being cared for, and that her biological parents feel a sense of peace knowing their daughter will be loved and cherished.
Thank you thank you thank you to everyone for your support, and thank you, God, for guiding us on this wild and wonderful roller-coaster! Please continue to pray that Vivian is being cared for, and that her biological parents feel a sense of peace knowing their daughter will be loved and cherished.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
One day makes a huge difference
Well, it is official; we will receive our referral in early July. Our agency received referrals this morning for their November 2 families, but not November 8. All over the world parents from November 2-7 are seeing their babies' faces for the first time, and a huge congratulations goes out to all of them.
Although very disappointed and a bit teary at the moment, I suppose there is some peace in knowing we are absolutely next since we missed the cutoff by one day. Please continue to pray that our child is receiving the care she needs until we can get there to bring her home.
Here's hoping to a speedy rest of June, and maybe a July 3 referral (Jason's birthday).
Thank you again for all your support on our looong journey.
Although very disappointed and a bit teary at the moment, I suppose there is some peace in knowing we are absolutely next since we missed the cutoff by one day. Please continue to pray that our child is receiving the care she needs until we can get there to bring her home.
Here's hoping to a speedy rest of June, and maybe a July 3 referral (Jason's birthday).
Thank you again for all your support on our looong journey.
Monday, April 30, 2007
This is better
This morning we received word that referrals are on the way for parents who were logged in October 27-November 1, 2005. It seems worse than it is (6 days' worth). Those folks who track information relentlessly thought if referrals came through October 31 it would be a good thing. Apparently October 27 and October 31 were HUGE days for parents being logged in.
All this to say, we're 7 days away now, and it looks good for our referral to come in early June. Early July at the latest, which means we will likely travel in August or September.
It's starting to feel real now...
All this to say, we're 7 days away now, and it looks good for our referral to come in early June. Early July at the latest, which means we will likely travel in August or September.
It's starting to feel real now...
Monday, April 9, 2007
a setback
Referrals came (a week later than expected - on April 6) and they were for parents logged in October 25 and 26, 2005. Two days' worth of referrals is unheard of, and a huge disappointment for those of us waiting "on the cusp." The CCAA has been averaging 13 days worth of referrals; we are now 13 log-in days away.
For the first time last night I had a good, hard cry. A cry for the child we've waited and prayed for month after month, and a cry for my family, who has been through so much in the past year and just deserves a bit of happiness. Nothing would make me happier than for our parents to be able to hold our daughter and take in the sheer joy of a baby.
This morning our adoption agency called to check in with us and to say how sorry they are for the wait. We are very lucky; we have a good agency that's doing the best they can to serve their families. Our agency still thinks we have a chance of being included in the next batch of matched parents/babies, and that the 2-days' worth of referrals was a fluke. Time will tell!
Thanks again for your continued prayers.
For the first time last night I had a good, hard cry. A cry for the child we've waited and prayed for month after month, and a cry for my family, who has been through so much in the past year and just deserves a bit of happiness. Nothing would make me happier than for our parents to be able to hold our daughter and take in the sheer joy of a baby.
This morning our adoption agency called to check in with us and to say how sorry they are for the wait. We are very lucky; we have a good agency that's doing the best they can to serve their families. Our agency still thinks we have a chance of being included in the next batch of matched parents/babies, and that the 2-days' worth of referrals was a fluke. Time will tell!
Thanks again for your continued prayers.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Referrals are coming! From what we've heard online, the CCAA has matched and sent referrals for parents logged in October 25-early November. Not sure of the cut-off date yet, but we'll know Monday (if not sooner). It's doubtful we're in this batch, but even if we're not included this time, we'll know we are NEXT.
The next batch of referrals should come the week of April 23 or April 30.
The next batch of referrals should come the week of April 23 or April 30.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Our journey to Vivian
We've created this blog for our friends and family to get updates on our adoption. As most of you know, we began the process two years ago (March 2005) after much discussion and prayer.
Our log-in date with the CCAA (the China Center for Adoption Affairs) is November 8, 2005. That's the day our translated paperwork was received at CCAA and put into the pile of waiting parents. The CCAA moves through parent dossiers by date, and as luck would have it, we were logged in at the beginning of a major slow-down. Our 6-month wait has turned into 16 months and counting.
Parents and children are "matched" approximately once a month, in batches. As it looks now, we should be in the batch for late April/early May. At that time we will receive a referral, which includes pictures, a medical history and information about our daughter (where she was found, her birthdate, where she lives now, etc.) We will travel approximately 6-8 weeks later, and we will be in China for two weeks.
Thanks to everyone who has supported us on this long journey - we couldn't have done it without our friends and family. Stay tuned for further updates!!
Our log-in date with the CCAA (the China Center for Adoption Affairs) is November 8, 2005. That's the day our translated paperwork was received at CCAA and put into the pile of waiting parents. The CCAA moves through parent dossiers by date, and as luck would have it, we were logged in at the beginning of a major slow-down. Our 6-month wait has turned into 16 months and counting.
Parents and children are "matched" approximately once a month, in batches. As it looks now, we should be in the batch for late April/early May. At that time we will receive a referral, which includes pictures, a medical history and information about our daughter (where she was found, her birthdate, where she lives now, etc.) We will travel approximately 6-8 weeks later, and we will be in China for two weeks.
Thanks to everyone who has supported us on this long journey - we couldn't have done it without our friends and family. Stay tuned for further updates!!
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