Saturday, August 29, 2009

Last Day

First, happy day to Olivia! It's hard to believe that 7 months ago today, she was born. We are looking forward to seeing her with a toothy grin. Her first two teeth came in during our absence.

We are overjoyed!!! Our day tomorrow will begin at 5 AM China time (5 PM Eastern time). Add 28-30 hours to that and we will be home!  We cannot wait to hold our girls and have them meet their brother.

Tian continues to entertain us.  He's getting sweeter and more relaxed day by day.  We spent some last moments today wrestling, splashing in mud puddles, racing around the hotel, shopping, eating and eating some more.

Each day we have allowed Tian to choose his shirt. Today was a moment of truth when Tian told our guide that he liked his orange golf shirt.  He said that he liked it because it had "two buttons and that made it really nice". Wow!

Do not get me wrong...he is appreciative, and yet the boy is an absolute menace inside of the stores.  I'll just warn you ahead of time that if you ever see me in Wal-mart or Target, there will probably be a whirlwind circling around us. I'm sure to be that Mom that people point at and wonder why she can't control her children.  There are just some things that I cannot worry about right now. 

My next post will be a picture of our family reunion. Little girls, Mama and Daddy are coming. I really hope that no one stands in our path; Mama may be small, but she is bound to become the most powerful offensive lineman you have ever seen.  This girl is coming home to be with all of her babies!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Babbling Blog

Tian is napping as Mom and Dad are enjoying the air conditioning. Nothing really new to report. We met several other families yesterday at the US Consulate's office. We completed a swearing ceremony to attest that our paperwork is accurate. Aside from going through immigration in the States and applying for a US birth certificate, that was the last part of the paperwork process. Yippee!

Also while Tian is napping, we are enjoying a Pepsi and a Kit Kat! I have missed my chocolate here, not because it isn't available; it just hasn't been readily available and as cheap as at home. We went to Carrefore, a French version of Wal-Mart. Too bad we're so far from home. I could have had a little more fun there. I was also shopping with Chris and a male guide. Their boredom was evident...although, Tian loved looking at all of the boy toys (cars, remote control helicopters, transformers, etc.).

Tian is such a character. He starting his winking game again this morning...only he didn't realize that he needed to relax his eye after the wink was over. He kept his eye squinted for a little while as we laughed and tried to communicate that a wink is a quick action. The laughter fueled him even more.

Two nights ago we decided to eat something like ramen noodles in the room. I covered the table and floor with newspaper and let Tian eat until his heart was content. He so enjoyed eating and playing with his food. Last night as we were ready to leave for dinner, I asked him in Chinese if he was hungry. He answered very excitedly and ran to the table in the room. He pulled his chair up close and with eager anticipation stared down at an empty table. Again, we laughed and tried to explain that we were going out to eat. He understood and raced to the door saying, "Come on!" He is certainly a character. We look forward to being able to verbally communicate more in the future. He is sure to entertain everyone.

Supper last night was provided on a dinner river cruise. It was very relaxing. Of all of the times to forget our camera! There were so many lights; it looked like Christmas, yet with a rainbow of colors.

Hannah and Olivia, we love you so much! We are coming home very soon! To our family, we are almost there. We can't thank you enough for "putting up" with the girls. We wish we had enough money to send you on a child-free vacation!

Thanks again and again to our friends and family who have sent us comments. Your words have been an inspiration and a comfort to us. Almost every adoptive couple we have met here has been clear about one thing: God has paved the way and enabled us beyond any expectations. Even as we face the transitions before us at home, we should never doubt His faithfulness.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Short Post

We completed the adoption process yesterday!!! We will leave on Sunday; it's hard to sit here that long.

Picture captions: Tian as Daddy's little helper. He tries to help with chores. :) Second one is Tian enjoying fruit at breakfast.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Little Man

Our pictures are taking awhile to load, but I knew everyone was eager to see the "little man"! Tian is sporting his bedtime look- batman pajamas and a silly hat. One picture is him with a messy mouth; the boy loves fried noodles.
The countdown has begun! We have 4 and a half days before we leave for home! I never would have predicted that I would be so eager to return. Chris and I have ALWAYS enjoyed traveling. Having children does change a lot of things. I must remember this feeling next time I'm longing for a vacation. Nothing is better than being in the presence of the people I love.

Tian was a brave boy as he endured his first flight yesterday. Watching his face light up at the magnitude of the jets was fun. He made a boring day at a crowded airport a little less boring. He admitted to our guide that he was a bit fearful.

We can also now say that we were the family with the noisy toddler on the plane. Little man despises the seatbelt. Boy is Mommy dreading the car seat when we return home. I can't even allow myself to think about the flights home. I pray he sleeps a lot and that the other passengers have extra patience and ear plugs!

It is a nice change to be in Guangzhou. Every family who adopts in China has to come here to get a US visa for their little "immigrant". Tian handled the medical exam without so much as a complaint. The same cannot be said for his afternoon nap.

We did get in some cuddle time before nap. Tian still prefers Daddy, but Mama is seeing a little more love. He is so funny. In private, he wants to kiss all over us (he will kiss your feet if you let him). Once in public, he does not want Chris to kiss him. He pushes Chris away and then makes this cute little smirk as he looks at him out of the corner of his eyes. He rejects the affection as lovingly as he can.

He is into everything. Look out house! Look out girls; your room may never be the same.

Highlight of the day: a very American breakfast!!!! Tian enjoyed bacon, tator tots, and grapes. The boy loves to eat. He yelped, "OOOoooh yea BaBa" when asked if he was ready to eat. He eats substantially more than I do; he even had gained 2 pounds since his weighing in July. He may be small now, but we predict he is going to be a big boy.

Tomorrow, our paperwork will be filed with the American Consulate so that we can take Tian home. Once our plane lands in Chicago, Tian will be an American citizen. Did I mention that we will be home on Sunday? :) We will also enjoy some shopping tomorrow and a dinner cruise. I haven't really enjoyed the shopping here. You have to haggle with the salespeople to get a decent price. I would much rather just pay what is asked, provided that price is reasonable.

We again give thanks to God as He continues to strengthen and encourage us. This has not been an easy experience; it's very emotional. Nonetheless, this is the path that God has placed us on. I once heard a missionary inside of an African war zone say that we are never safer than in the center of God's will. I agree!

Monday, August 24, 2009

The Good, the Bad, and the Cutie Patootie

Imagine a tall circular building reaching high in the sky. It is colored blue, gold and green in a beautiful Chinese design. Around it's base are three layers of marble platforms, each a mathematically concentric circle(multiples of nine). Described is the infamous Temple of Heaven. Our visit was interesting, but I'll just end my synopsis with: "I am glad my God reigns!" Don't get me wrong; I appreciate the cultural lessons and the chance to witness the serenity of the park there. I just much prefer my faith and my heart is heavy for those who do not.

Our favorite observation was of the differing activities in the park. Retired people, many who looked really young to me, were participating in games, dance, tai chi, singing, needlework and the playing of instruments, cards, and dominoes. There were crowds of people who evidently do these communal activities every day. I would love to see this happen in my home town or even my church family. Obviously, activities could not be attended everyday, but the opportunities to share would be available.

From the beginning of this process, we were somehow able to get an expedited Chinese passport for Tian. We will be leaving Beijing tomorrow and traveling to Guangzhou to apply for Tian's US visa. We are eager to see how Tian handles the flight. Since he has only known orphanage life for the last three years, we are indeed monitoring what we think he can handle. So far, our boy is amazing us with his ability to tolerate the hectic schedule and crowds. We are educated enough to realize that he may only be "surviving" for now. Regardless, he is an amazing little boy!

Daddy has taught Tian to wink. Our guide is even calling him "Lady-killer" as she too is a witness to his effect on the ladies here. He plays shy, shares a few smiles here and there...and before we know it...he is surrounded by the waitresses or the ladies working each tourist attraction. He has been given too much candy and lots of kisses. It's clear he prefers the candy! I just shake my head as I have no clue what the ladies are telling him.

We hope to be able to update our blog once we move to our new location, although we make no promises. Thank you for continuing to pray for us.

Hannah and Olivia, we love you!

Sunday, August 23, 2009

More Pictures









Tian eating a cookie and saying "Cheese" for the camera.

Tian (not smiling), but Mommy was smiling behind the camera. It was his first ever church service!!!!

Church children gathering onstage to sing "Hallelujah, Praise Ye the Lord" with a few movements. It was lots of fun!

Children in a private foster home. All of the children are blind and orphaned.

Perfect Day in Beijing

A visit to an international church in Beijing turned out to be quite the blessing. Standing in front of a hotel entrance, I watched as a myriad of believers from many nations joined to worship the One true God! It made me wonder if I was getting a glimpse of heaven. We sang, watched a small group of blind orphans perform in chorus, and reflected during a sermon about our status as sons and daughters of the Lord through adoption. Funny how we are continued to be encouraged and confirmed in this journey.

When we met our guide, she had questions about the church. She had no idea that it was illegal for her to attend. We did show her a little footage from our visit. I pray that other Christian World Adoption families can continue to be a witness to her as they come to meet their babies in the near future.

Lunch was at a Mexican restaurant with several other Americans and one Canadian (mostly fellow teachers met while visiting with my friend, Donica). Boy was it welcoming to be surrounded by English speakers for a while. Tian played with a set of puzzles given to him by Donica; he then ate everything Chris fed him (samples of burger, fries, chicken quesadilla, and chicken tenders). The boy should do well in SC.

Our taxi rides were completely uneventful. Thank you Lord!

Our late afternoon took us onto the Hutong Tour. It was interesting to learn about traditional living in the old Beijing.

The fun is all over and we're washing clothes in the sink. Bedtime soon. Hannah and Olivia, have a wonderful day. We are one day closer to you!

Saturday, August 22, 2009

It's Sunday!

Today's picture is Tian's first pose. He wanted me to take his picture with his car.

Last night ended with a visit with my friend, Donica.  We shared a meal and took a walk down Wang Fu Jing Street.  Donica and I strolled down "Weird Food Street" where the vendors sell edible (or questionably edible) things you can't even imagine to tourists. 

We have awoken to a beautiful sunny day and we're looking forward to attending church at 11:30. We are visiting an international church that has freedom to teach all of Scripture.  We will be sure to post about that experience later tonight.  Only foreigners can attend this church as it is illegal for Chinese people. There are state churches for locals, but the teachings are controlled. Home churches are also illegal. I am a bit nervous as we will be taking our first taxi in Beijing.  Hopefully, we'll arrive on time and in one piece 8)

Later we will take the Hutong tour that will teach about the traditional living communities. 

To our girls, we miss you like crazy and pray for you often.  We want you to play, eat well, and have fun.  Listen and be good. We love you!

To our family, thank you for taking care of the girls!  Our hearts are at ease. To everyone, thank you for your prayers!  God is truly present in China and present with our girls!

Beijing History and Squatty Potties

Our morning began with our daily dose of home via Skype.  Both Hannah and Olivia were present.  Unfortunately, Hannah was feeling down.  We can tell that she is happy, but the separation is equally difficult for her.  All of our time is always spent together.  Say a special prayer for our girls.  Words cannot express the longings of our hearts.

Afterwards, we were off to the Capital Museum.  I wish I could say that I enjoyed this; I really did not.  Tian and I were scolded because he was making too much noise as he rocked back and forth on a bench.  This left a bad taste in my mouth.  He really was not being too loud.  I know...I have other children and I'm a stickler about behaving in public.  Oh well!

Daddy saw more of the squatty potties than anything else. Tian did enjoy taking the 6 escalators up and down and up and down and...

We believe that part of the honeymoon period is over.  Tian is learning what we will and will not accept.  He tends to weep when he doesn't get his way.  Naptime does not come willingly, but he REALLY needs it.  Poor Daddy, being the favored parent (for now), has to hold Tian during these meltdowns.  Daddy is such a trooper, but he could also use your prayers.  The stress of being the primary caretaker is a bit tiring.

As I type, Tian is crying in Daddy's arms.  They are lying on the bed with Daddy wishing for a nap for both of them. This is his third meltdown today. We are hoping for a better afternoon since one of my grad school buddies will be spending the evening with us.

We are enjoying this experience. Though, we must admit that we are in the middle of the process and are feeling a bit worn out. We are thankful that we are healthy, our girls are well cared for, and God is watching over us. Keep us in your prayers. We are ready to come home. His cries are weakening...I hope sleep is on its way. Even before I finished typing, the moans stopped and then re-intensified. Going to support Daddy! Goodbye for now!

Friday, August 21, 2009

Mr. Soy Sauce

We started our morning early again.  While waiting for breakfast, I listened to two very fitting songs. The first was "God Bless the USA".  I sang it to Tian while he looked at me like I was crazy.  I always appreciate our country more when I am outside of it. 

The second song is the theme song to the Curious George movie.  It is entitled, "Upside Down", and it talks about being so curious that one will turn the world upside down to discover new things. "Who's to say what's impossible...what can't be found...I wanna turn the whole thing upside down.  I'll find the things they say just can't be found...I'll share this love I'll find with everyone..."

In China, almost everything is a symbol for something.  This song symbolizes Tian's new behavior.  He is turning the hotel room upside down and running Daddy ragged (big Mommy smile here).  His curiosity cannot be quenched.  It is fascinating to watch.  He continues to test his boundaries, talk to us endlessly, beg to be chased, make the biggest mess you've ever seen at meals, etc.  Meanwhile, we have turned his world upside down, so we think he is pretty amazing to handle this as well as he is.  Of course, we give full credit to God for everything!

Tian is fun to watch at meals.  We'll be happier when he's no longer a menace to the waitstaff and only to Mommy's kitchen.  He enjoys trying new foods.  One time he began dipping his chicken in soy sauce.  Before we could stop him, he buried a large soup spoon in the soy sauce and filled his mouth with it. I wish I had the camera in hand at that moment.  Sometimes curiosity does bad things to the cat!

Yesterday as I climbed a portion of the Great Wall, I contemplated a few things.  The wall is made up of steep and less steep inclines as well as short and deep steps.  Some of the way is narrow, some is wide.  This adoption journey has felt the same. There have been long exhausting climbs with small steps and huge steps. The way has seemed wide and the finish line is often in the distance. Our journey has moved to a new level, but it really just begins.  We look forward to the day when we reach the top and we can look back at all the steps and appreciate all that made us into what God had planned all along. 

Today we visited the Summer Palace and a Pearl Market. I had some fun negotiating the price of a couple sets of pearls.  I ran Chris off since his negotiation skills are not very good. I looked back to check on them later and they were surrounded by ladies. Now I have two "ladykillers" to keep up with. Really, Tian has been admired by everyone. Between Hannah, Olivia, and now Tian, I may never be able to go out in public without politely endulging strangers who want to talk to my precious children.

Tomorrow we are off to the museum and looking forward to a visit with a dear friend who teaches here.

PS Chris is listening to "Bad to the Bone" right now while Tian is climbing all over his Daddy.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Great Wall, Etc.

What a hot and exhausting day! SC weather and a climb on the Great Wall...not a great combination. The view was spectacular! The climb was dizzying (for me) and horrendously difficult for Chris as he carried Tian a large part of the way. The way was crowded with tourists gripping handrails and many were gasping for a breath (including us). Women covered themselves with umbrellas despite the narrow climbs.  We gave it our best effort just to preserve American pride. I did not include many after-shots of Chris. Fortunately, he did not forget his deodorant, unlike many of the travelers!
 
We were treated like movie stars a couple of times as foreigners wanted to take pictures with us. Weird to say the least.
 
More tomorrow!
 

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

More Pictures

Can you see the mischievousness?

Boundaries and French Fries

Yes, the little man has begun to test his boundaries.  Need I really say more? Each incidence has occurred around the possession of a toy.  Tian clearly understands when we instruct him to not do something.  For instance, he was playing with an Aqua Doodle and decided it would be more fun to mark other things.  When we said 'no', he was energized with a mission of 'yes'.  Once the marker was temporarily put away, the pitiful moaning cry began.  It does last a little while.  We hold him and try our best to comfort him.  Parenting a post-institutionalized child follows a different set of parenting rules.  We have educated ourselves on best practices and we rely on common sense and the Lord's leading for the rest.
 
Second incident occurred at bed.  I do not have one child who goes to bed without a fight.  Tian is the same.  The end of playtime with the prospect of bedtime was more than he could handle.  We both held him in bed as his cries crescendo-ed. Sleep eventually came to Daddy first, then to Tian!
 
On a different note, Tian loves french fries and ketchup.  At dinner, he stopped eating anything that was authentic Chinese food and devoured as many fries as we could reasonably allow.  The funniest part was watching him double and triple dip the ketchup, only to suck the ketchup from the fry and sweep it through the ketchup again.  If you could have only heard his moans of pleasure.  How comforting it is to me that he will like at least one thing is his new home!  (Chris and I were thankful for the fries too.  We were a little "China'd- out" yesterday.)
 
In addition, PlayDoh is a big hit.  He and I played for awhile.  It was hilarious to him when he destroyed my creations, some even before I finished them. I recorded him playing with a car I crafted for him.  He added a million accessories to it. As I watched, he would add something like headlights and tell me about it.  I hope that I can post the video later today.
 
Skype is our best friend here as we are able to see our girls daily.  We miss them terribly!  Olivia recognizes us even though she is so young.  Once she hears our voices, she begins to smile and wave her arms in delight.  What I would not give to kiss her fat cheeks today and hold her.  Hannah is enamored with seeing us and watching herself.  We miss Hannah terribly.  She entertains us so much.  We are constantly throwing virtual kisses and hugs across the computer screens. 
 
We are off to the Great Wall today!! I cannot wait.  I'll definitely post a few pictures.
 
 
I know that our girls are safe and loved, but separation from them is not something I endure well.  I have children because I adore being WITH them.  Now to be able to return home with ALL of them...I cannot thank God enough!

More Paperwork and the First of Sightseeing

Progress continues to be made. Tian prefers us to all others, including our Chinese guide, her associates, and the orphanage teacher. However, he is clearly a Daddy's boy! Yesterday on his own, he kissed Daddy. I was blessed with a hug. Today our guide decided to ask him to kiss me. I did not understand what she said to him until he reached up for me and landed a sweet kiss on my cheek. This is one amazing kid who will surely steal many hearts.
 
Each time we go to a restaurant, Tian is doted over. He receives compliments for his appearance, his behavior, and how well he eats from everyone. What proud parents we are. He has even had a waitress follow him out of the restaurant and give him kisses.
Yesterday, he leaned his two foot tall body against the door and said, "Come on!" His first English words were greeted with our immediate laughter and encouragement. Within a few minutes, he pointed to the refrigerator and said something that sounded very much like its name. As he woke this morning, he said, "Morning Baba," to Chris (Baba is Daddy). Then they wrestled for a long time while I tried to sneak in a few more minutes of sleep. Chris and I continue to wake during the early morning hours. We are dreading the jet lag and time change combination when we return home.
 
Tuesday was filled with a visit to the Forbidden City and an afternoon stroll. Chris was wrapped up in the history of the Ming and Ting Dynasties, while I listened, took pictures, and enjoyed a lot of people-watching. After dinner, we ventured out on the Wang Fu Jing Street and were overcome by the crowds, avid salespeople, and commercialization. Tian was absolutely spent because of all of the activity. We were too.
 
Every moment today has been invested in completing more paperwork. We now possess all of the documents that state that Tian is ours and a part of our family. What a feeling it is to hold these papers! We spent several hours with other adoptive families. It was a blessing to share in the various stories from each family. The family we asked prayers for has received clearance to complete their adoption. Each of the children we met today is such a joy. It is my prayer that more people will consider adoption.
 
I thank God that He adopted me, and I thank God that he continues to bless us and others through this adoption. Things are great because you keep lifting us in your prayers. Thank you!
 
****We apologize that we can't update the blog as often as we'd like. I am going to try to post a few more pictures in upcoming posts.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Monday, August 17, 2009

Here he is! Welcome him to our family!






***There are supposed to be three pictures posted here today. Again, I can't access this blog directly, so bear with us. Aunt Teresa will post them later if need be.*** We are marveling how well he fits with us. Today was a much better day. Tian was registered with the Chinese government as our son! We are working to control his food portions. We are helpless when it comes to convincing him to eat more slowly. We thought Hannah's table manners were in need of improvements. :)

Tian took a nap willingly today. Bliss!!! He has begun talking to us, and I am picking up several phrases. Body language proves to communicate a good bit. Not surprisingly, he is disciplined in everyday activities. He feeds himself, cleans his mouth, puts his shoes and clothes off and on by himself, and goes to the bathroom by himself. Of course, Old Mother Hen (aka Melissa) is hovering and trying to help with the occasional stubborn snap or button.

Our joy today has been in the sheer number of shared smiles. We have played and explored almost all day. Even when Daddy picks at him, he is receptive. He started calling us by "Mama" and "Baba" today. I'm a bit jealous because Baba is being called a lot more. As usual, Daddy is the fun guy! It's good to know that he already adores his daddy. I do too!

Continue in prayer for us. While the situation looks positive, there are many anxious moments in our path. Also pray for another family we have met here. They are living a nightmare as they wait on a doctor's signature to let them have their daughter. One thing we know for sure- God is in control!

Today begins our sightseeing. We are off to the Forbidden City in a few hours. Thanks to everyone for your comments on the blog. I am unable to publish them, but I will when we return to US soil.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Ahhh! Sleep!

Tian fought sleep last night with the best of them.  Poor guy cried for a long time; I admit that I shed a few tears myself.  He succumbed as he lay in our arms in the bed beside us. Such an emotional dilemma it is to take a child from everyhting he has ever known and remember that this truly is the best thing for him.  He is grieving and we are trying to comfort him through an inevitable process. But, thanks be to God- he CAN grieve!
 
Attachment is a bit daunting, but Tian shows signs that are favorable. He makes eye contact even on our first day together.  He wanted to be fed by us and really enjoyed the attention. 
 
He becomes frightened as quiet transitions approach (naturally intimate things like going to the restroom, going to sleep, or moments in play when he remembers where he is). He's about to wake.  I'm eager for him to wake without fear, but we will see and we will comfort him regardless.
 
Today we are off to the Civil Affairs Office.  The papers we sign today are the ones that make this adoption final.  Yippee!
 
Keep praying as we are only surviving because of the Lord's faithfulness!  PIctures are coming!!!! I promise!

We have Tian!

Words are not enough to express our feelings.  He is amazing.  Our meeting in our hotel room was calm, followed by a typical Shanghai meal (here in Beijing).  Tian ate heartily most everything he was offerred. As a matter of fact, I was unable to eat much as he eyed my food.  He smiled at us at lunch and it truly melted my heart.  Hand-in-hand, Mama, Daddy, and Tian walked back to the hotel.
 
All went well until we suggested a potty break and a nap.  He whimpered in my arms and drooled everywhere.  We were able to find some Chinese audio translations to reassure him.  After 20 minutes he decided that exploring a Spiderman backpack on the bed was more fun.  The cars and the books are favored the most.  Look out, Hannah, he doesn't want to share just yet either!  He continues to play with his treasures as Daddy and I try to interact with him.  He shares a shy smile every so often.
 
We are overjoyed and so thankful to God for giving us another child, one who is equally loved as his sisters.  He is perfect in everyway; he is absolutely gorgeous and seems sweet-natured!  Already, we know that he has Daddy's ears, the same cow-lick as the rest of the family, and a similar distaste of naps as his sisters.
 
Continue in prayer for Tian that he may not be frightened.  Pray for Chris and me as we strive to meet his day-to-day needs despite a significant language barrier.
 
Pictures will be posted tomorrow once we complete the "harmonious period".  I must go; I have a playdate with a handsome little guy who keeps peeking up at me with shy smiles. 

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Almost Time!

Oh me, oh my! Gotcha time is almost here. We were just wondering how Tian's departure from his orphanage went. Did he leave a close friend behind? Is he already missing his caretaker? Is he excited? Or frightened? Wait till he sets his eyes on these Caucasians…
We have continued to pray for peace for each one of us during this emotional time. I should not be amazed at God's faithful answer to our requests. He brought us to China to unite with our son. How can we even doubt what the Lord will do for us while we're here? My point is that I am considerably surprised at how I feel right now. I am at peace! This is feels right! I am eager to hold my boy, yet wise enough to realize that intimacy may take some time. That's ok. We have a lifetime together.
We each deal with the anticipation in our own way. Chris is reading a Chinese magazine, China Pictorial, and listening to Johnny Cash on his Ipod. After reading Psalm 105 and a bit of 1st Timothy and humming "This is the Day", my way of dealing with my emotions is through typing them out. There really are no need for spoken words. I'm too busy whispering prayers from my heart.
Next post, we hope to publish a few pictures. Until then, keep Tian in your prayers. Our little boy's world has been turned upside down. We promise him that it will be worth it very soon!

We're in Beijing!

We made it!  Sorry...too tired to post anything more.  We meet Tian at 10:30 PM, Eastern time.  We are pretty nervous.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Peace

I was asked at church today what I would like people to pray for during our adoption trip. My response was quick as it is something that has been heavy upon my heart. I ask that our son will be filled with peace when he meets us.

Later as I was playing restaurant with the girls, Hannah handed me a Max Lucado devotional to use as a menu. In my pretend menu, I turned to today's special/devotion and found Isaiah 54:13 "All your children will be taught by the Lord, and they will have much PEACE!" How awesome is the Lord? What a God Wink!

Melissa

Saturday, August 8, 2009




Most of our little guy's room is ready for him. Thanks to a very special family that contributed the very cool construction decor! Who knows if he will want to stay in there all by himself. He's used to sleeping in a room with other children.

Making the Most of Time With the Girls

We leave for China on Friday to adopt our 3 year old son. Amidst all of the planning, packing, fears, and excitement, today we needed to become oblivious of all we know so that I could sit back and enjoy the here and now that is my family. We, girls, enjoyed a lazy day at home...still in our PJs, rolling across the floor, posing for silly pictures, eating junk, laughing about nonsense. For tomorrow the craziness of life will return. Thank you, Lord, for the profound reward of quiet moments with little babes.

Walk with us through this journey.
Melissa