tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61258055871340541982024-03-18T23:54:41.726-05:00love is the answerLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-11637821387217395752015-08-13T17:43:00.001-05:002015-08-13T17:43:58.406-05:00HomeAs I write this, we are somewhere off the coast of Alaska, traveling at 510mph and nearly 34,000ft above the earth. Heading back to China. To bring a precious child, our Levi, home. Traveling far away from home isn't easy for me - I'm a self declared home body - I like it there. It's comfy and stable. But God called us out to be adoptive parents and that means we go where He leads us and so we go to China. The more I let go and just trust God to lead, I find myself living a life I could never have imagined. It's an amazing thing to watch God work!<div><br></div><div>I keep thinking about how Levi didn't ask to be an orphan, and he's not asking to be taken away from everything he's known to join people he doesn't know - yet. The life of an orphan is unstable, unpredictable, precarious, and sometimes life threatening. We felt this in an extreme way when we were in the process to adopt our Emme Rose and when we thought Levi might be taken back to his orphanage. Decisions are made for them by people who don't have their best interests at heart. Fortunately, there were some very special people that fought to keep Levi where he is now and we know that God answered our prayers. He is doing a mighty work in Levi's life - and we want him to know about it one day. </div><div><br></div><div>We also want him to know that these past nine and a half months we worked on paperwork, that he was prayed for, wanted, and we did all we could to bring him home. God provided for our adoption expenses again - of course - He always come through when we trust in Him and usually just in the knick of time! I know the next few days of this journey could be hard. I'm praying for this every time I stop to pray. I'm prepared to be rejected, pushed away, the one who he's mad at, the one he doesn't want. I'm also prepared to be the one who will pour out love, patience, understanding, and a good dose of mama silliness! I'm praying for instant bonding- but I know too well from our experience with Stella, that it could be more like running a marathon. I may have to work hard to win over a broken heart. I may have to pray day and night for him to accept my love. He is totally worth it all. </div><div><br></div><div>Much like the Father waits, calls us back to Him - just wanting to love us - we will keep pursuing Levi's heart. Praying he will let go and trust us. </div><div><br></div><div>"Let go my soul and trust in Him. The waves and wind still know His name. It is well...with my soul". </div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-74325566735609405622015-06-30T11:50:00.000-05:002015-06-30T11:50:30.548-05:00Journey to LeviI know it's been quite a while since I dusted off the blog and wrote something. So today I might as well make it a big announcement post right?! See that little guy over in the corner that we have been sponsoring at New Day Foster Home? He is going to join our family this year as a beloved son and brother!<br />
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We are so excited to be in process to adopt this very special little man. Levi will be his name. We've been working to bring him home for quite a while now, but only now do we finally have permission to post on blogs. China has said "yes!" and we are officially matched with Levi to adopt him. <br />
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Yes, Levi and Stella both resided at New Day - although we are sure they were far too young to remember one another. But we see how God has had His mighty hand in this all along! When we found out that the agency up the road from us had Levi's file, we wondered if this was God's nudge to start the adoption process once again. We so wanted to say "yes" to him. Through lots of prayer, conversations and more prayer, we did say "yes!" and we now can't wait to meet our new son. Everyone is so excited to be getting a new brother! A little boy was just what this family needed. <br />
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We should be traveling to bring him home in less than two months if all goes well. Please be in prayer for a smooth finish to the paperwork process, prayer for Levi's heart as he gets ready to experience great change and accept us into his life, pray for safe travels and for a beautiful transition for all. <br />
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Wo ai ni Levi! We love you already!<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-64166090543740184032015-03-31T17:05:00.000-05:002015-03-31T17:07:58.444-05:00One year! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'll warn you right from the start that this post may (read: will) be
heavy with photos and most of the photos will be doing the talking.
Today, marks one year with our precious Stella Claire! What an amazing
milestone to finally be reaching. I woke up though, wondering why I
wasn't filled with joy. Believe me, I'm so happy, very happy, that
Stella has been with us a year. As I got to thinking about these mixed emotions this morning over my
tea, it really hit me how bittersweet this anniversary is for all of
us. Gotcha Day or Family Day, is a wonderful day, but it is also filled
with heartache, confusion and just plain grief over leaving all that
you have known. As parents, we go into the day with anticipation of
finally holding the child we have longed for in our arms. That moment
comes and then we are switched from the joyous moment, to the comforters
of the child who has come to us with nothing - except the memories of
everything that just was. We are strangers. Can you imagine being
comforted by a stranger? The time that trauma takes to heal, through
lots of prayer, lots of creative parenting, and lots of love is for us close
to a year. A year. I can now say that our little girl loves us.
We've always loved her (from that first photo of a 6 month old baby with
the biggest brown eyes), but there have been times this year when it's
been hard to pour out that love. Loving someone, opening your heart to
them - just takes lots of time. We have arrived. Praise!<br />
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Last year - this was shortly after we met Stella and her nanny in the hotel lobby.<br />
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Oh
my - just look at that sweetness! Mama had a new cup to give her and
food was the way to her heart (kind of still is!). Our meeting came
with smiles, no forceful placements into my arms. We took our time and
got to know each other until it was time to take her up to our room.
Then the tears came... Thankfully she was easily comforted and went into full on play mode.<br />
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This window - I'll always remember as a place of comfort for the both of us.<br />
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Wiped out finally from all the day brought to her. She was so heavy, but it was the best feeling holding her sleeping in my arms.<br />
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And NOW! Just look at this thriving little girl! We missed her second birthday by just a week so this year we celebrated big (like the 1st, 2nd and 3rd birthdays combined big!!!). Stella Claire is so loved and a cherished daughter. I took these pictures of her today - 3 years old now - she's grown so much this past year. We are so very thankful to <a href="http://www.newdaycreations.com/foster" target="_blank">New Day</a> for her care before God brought us together. Because she knew love, she has opened her heart to love again.<br />
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Presenting - the many faces of our beautiful girl: <br />
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Happy one year together! Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-30624923833074749422014-12-10T15:47:00.001-06:002014-12-10T15:47:42.079-06:00Yummy Chinese Beef Noodle SoupYummy - yes! Now that the weather is finally turning slightly cooler here in South Texas, it's time to break out the simple soup recipes that warm our bellies so. And with Melissa finally home from China, she's been hungry for the foods she found comfort in while working there. Stella LOVES this soup and I've finally gotten the seasoning just right to make it feel like Chinese comfort food. We had a version of this soup in Guangzhou while adopting Stella Claire, and it really is just so, so good. You've got to try it, especially if you have China babies at home! We have tried to incorporate more traditional foods into our meals as they really do bring our little girl comfort.<br />
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This feeds our family of 9, so adjust accordingly for your family size - or freeze extra! This is a two part recipe and part one needs to be done at least one day ahead (putting this in here for planning purposes!). </div>
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<b>Ingredients for Chinese Beef Noodle Soup: </b></div>
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4 beef shanks with bone, 1/2 cup soy sauce (or liquid aminos - my preference), 1/2 cup rice wine, 2 cups water, four whole green onions (ends removed), 4 slices fresh ginger (about 1/2 inch each piece), 2 Tablespoons chinese szechuan pepper seasoning (I found mine at Whole Foods - but you could use 8-10 whole sichuan peppercorns too - I just can't find those in my area).</div>
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<b>Part 1 - Braise the beef shank.</b> Place beef shanks in a large pot with remaining ingredients listed above. Bring to a boil, cover tightly, turn heat to low and simmer for approx. 2 hours. </div>
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Remove beef from broth to a plate and let cool. Reserve broth/sauce and beef in the refrigerator for noodle soup. Refrigerating the beef overnight will make it easier for cutting later.</div>
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<b><b>Part 2: Noodle soup ingredients: </b></b></div>
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Chinese noodles (do not use egg noodles, specifically look for traditional wheat noodles), chicken broth (about 8 oz for every two servings, in which I use 1 box), 6 cups water, salt and pepper, soy sauce, reserved beef and broth (which should look like a gelatin - just remove the bones, onions and ginger pieces), two bunches of greens (we like baby bok choy, but spinach and napa cabbage work too), and slivered scallions for garnishing. </div>
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In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, and all the reserved broth/sauce from cooking the beef shank. Bring to a boil and add in your greens to blanch them. Adjust seasoning if needed (add salt, pepper, or a touch of soy sauce). Set aside once your broth is steaming hot and greens are wilted.<br />
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At the same time, bring a separate pot of water to boil to cook your noodles. Cook noodles according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook. Drain noodles.<br />
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Thinly slice the reserved beef shank meat.<br />
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Now it's finally time to assemble the soup! Place noodles into large soup bowls (the Chinese like generous portions!). Add some beef slices, some greens, and ladle in hot soup broth. Garnish with slivered green onions and serve steaming hot!<br />
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My sweet husband makes these <a href="https://www.ming.com/food-and-wine/recipes/season-1/blue-ginger-cracker-dough.htm" target="_blank">yummy chinese crackers </a>to go with our soup sometimes.<br />
They are so, so good! Tastes just like the pita bread we had in Guangzhou.<br />
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Yep - you <i>can</i> tip your bowl and drink the soup broth little Stella! </div>
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More please?! Of course! She can eat 4 bowls of this! :-)</div>
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Enjoy y'all!<br />
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~Lisa<br />
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-17539742925132417442014-11-02T12:27:00.000-06:002014-11-02T12:27:39.200-06:00The morning lightToday is Orphan Sunday, a day that some churches across the nation will use to bring awareness to foster care and adoption. Our local church will probably not be doing anything special, that I know of, and I'm kind of not okay with that. But it is what it is right now and I'll keep praying for our church. And if they do something - I'll be praising for that!<br />
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So today, I bring you my little blog post as a reminder that today in churches all around the nation, there are families hearing about other families involved in adoption and foster care, the orphan crisis around the world and children who need families. As I sit here writing, I'm watching God's glorious sunrise and it seems so very fitting. You see, God is the only one who can awaken our hearts just like the sun brings light to overcome the darkness of the night. First, there's just a little glow and the darkness turns from pitch black to gray. Are you listening? Could God be talking to you right now?<br />
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Our answer is usually something like this...."Oh God, I'm happy to help others, but caring for orphans is just not for me. I do not have the gifts or talents for this. I'll let someone else do that work". <br />
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Then the darkness gives way to more light as God calls even more to the heart. There's a red sky of love beaming up over the horizon and it's a holy beauty that draws us speechless. God says "yes, you my child". "You were put here to care for the least of these. You." Us. What if He is calling to you right now? Will you say "Yes"?<br />
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I know it's scary. I know there is fear. When we first thought God was asking us to do more and to adopt, we thought it was crazy! We already had been given six children biologically to care for and raise. But we gave it to God. Give it all to God and He will see this through! It's as simple as that! And there will be beauty and joy like the sunrise peeking over the horizon. His promises renewing each and every morning.<br />
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We said yes - and here she is today home seven months! She is no longer a child without a family - an orphan. But a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter and friend. Her reality and beginning could have been lost to statistics if God hadn't called to our hearts, changed us, and made her ours. She was always His, but now she can flourish and thrive with a family by her side. <br />
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The very first picture we saw of Stella Claire when she arrived at New Day.</div>
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Home 7 months - she's so loved. </div>
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Please don't wait. Don't wait for "the time to be right". There are so many children waiting. They need you. Now.<br />
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So today, on Orphan Sunday, while it may be all around you or it may not be mentioned at all, take a moment to ask God what he wants from you. Does he want you to support a family in the adoption process, take a meal to the ones who just became first time foster parents, pray for those children who are waiting, or adopt one into your family? It's not something that most people think about on a daily basis, so that's why there is today. My prayer today is that God will ask "why aren't you doing something?". Let's all answer Him with a "Yes!". And - then GO do it!<br />
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<i>The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5</i><br />
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Go be the light. Bring the light to those who are waiting for it. And - experience the LOVE and JOY that is waiting for you!Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-10945730956072591202014-09-24T17:19:00.001-05:002014-09-24T17:19:20.991-05:00First haircutStella's hair had grown so much since she came home (almost 6 months now!) so we visited the salon for a trim. She's been great with dentists, doctors, etc so I knew she would do great with her first at home haircut. I know she's had her haircut before when she lived at New Day but this was so special for us! I missed so many of her firsts... celebrating and making memories of her "at home" firsts means so much. <div><br></div><div>I'll let the pictures do the talking here:</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENMH-3hX2niceVlWTpIH-zkXtSoCm6FXHlIzMXfaxTA8J1i4aadQ7cbDivHRxZssKaN0QwgbYsgXoxczRMfAhuZZmEl3BphWRuZnXDdk7NZTvIAC8PbgxC-57pA26Xv7NxLhoQ6SePekc/s640/blogger-image-961851943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENMH-3hX2niceVlWTpIH-zkXtSoCm6FXHlIzMXfaxTA8J1i4aadQ7cbDivHRxZssKaN0QwgbYsgXoxczRMfAhuZZmEl3BphWRuZnXDdk7NZTvIAC8PbgxC-57pA26Xv7NxLhoQ6SePekc/s640/blogger-image-961851943.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyQBGEoyOxsb1PNLFh41nBn7Xlvs7mDPOWWMp0uzQ6VYG3MceRfa3C4DINT7jLB4istwzIHS7zY93b96PnDKfgCvDP4mVbRxPOcNg1f6pXjBS7EXDcanbfYmnEaMuwwbwX0110bMUDXII/s640/blogger-image-1904881022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyQBGEoyOxsb1PNLFh41nBn7Xlvs7mDPOWWMp0uzQ6VYG3MceRfa3C4DINT7jLB4istwzIHS7zY93b96PnDKfgCvDP4mVbRxPOcNg1f6pXjBS7EXDcanbfYmnEaMuwwbwX0110bMUDXII/s640/blogger-image-1904881022.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh115Do4VWA2_MQNcXqsn8A7yqdfViA8LC91Cf0FnxH5CEb4JTBUTG4TN2B5sfZFgw3DEq-7yTeV9lcnHGDffOq229_7iAwXdQ7RSud8BUid-v_DFKH_VFit5XFtBSppgyVjCJP7TybgYL1/s640/blogger-image-1029125007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh115Do4VWA2_MQNcXqsn8A7yqdfViA8LC91Cf0FnxH5CEb4JTBUTG4TN2B5sfZFgw3DEq-7yTeV9lcnHGDffOq229_7iAwXdQ7RSud8BUid-v_DFKH_VFit5XFtBSppgyVjCJP7TybgYL1/s640/blogger-image-1029125007.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUWvDN3yW7AoOb79UaNJ5Idmrd3wgWUvTI7Xf7xT4xkC_iLzg1dFY75awKPYqz-P3nRTbLZQvqs6jDJhcPiXAvFqcKIO2SnKLKejKNjIKRq1-Tl4JbouLvSOZ4-0T5jwo90yLBq8J8TVW/s640/blogger-image-1412108071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUWvDN3yW7AoOb79UaNJ5Idmrd3wgWUvTI7Xf7xT4xkC_iLzg1dFY75awKPYqz-P3nRTbLZQvqs6jDJhcPiXAvFqcKIO2SnKLKejKNjIKRq1-Tl4JbouLvSOZ4-0T5jwo90yLBq8J8TVW/s640/blogger-image-1412108071.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1TnFG_GJdrc7Y1qOd2PvT4CgQkqp2toFrABP7i647updZ1MdELcYTKF-BnL9gNDFsI5T5ukv2Nht9ePLtg_sCbAYcpvUjcwyGE_X0kPaWOod1RRGiAZUVkDywxUeHVF0j24jEdAAJVki_/s640/blogger-image-1767574676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1TnFG_GJdrc7Y1qOd2PvT4CgQkqp2toFrABP7i647updZ1MdELcYTKF-BnL9gNDFsI5T5ukv2Nht9ePLtg_sCbAYcpvUjcwyGE_X0kPaWOod1RRGiAZUVkDywxUeHVF0j24jEdAAJVki_/s640/blogger-image-1767574676.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Enough pictures Mom! She keeps us in stitches our little funny girl. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Big Sis "Jie Jie" made it to China safely and loves the work she's doing there. We miss her but found a glimpse of her on the New Day blog here: http://newdayfosterhome.blogspot.com/2014/09/havent-they-grown.html?m=1</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's a special time for her! </div><br></div><br></div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-79501016750595118932014-08-03T13:31:00.001-05:002014-08-03T13:31:33.423-05:00Four monthsIt's been four months since we welcomed Stella into our family officially, four very busy months. The first month was spent half in China, half at home in the US, and was a whirlwind of emotions (for both her and us). It came with grief and loss once again, and also a new beginning full of hope and joy. She had her own language, didn't understand what was happening, and couldn't fully express herself because of that language barrier. The second month was spent hunkered down, cocooning at home, limiting contact with others and just spending time as a family getting to know each other. She learned many English words quickly (she's a smart one for sure) and could better express herself as that language grew more. We learned more how she likes things and just how she is as a little person. She has quite the personality! Sometimes completely and utterly sweet, the other times sassy and strong willed. She's completely and utterly two years old! The third month together was spent exploring more and learning how her world now works. She learned to love to sit and read books, although she still doesn't like to watch tv (which is completely fine!) - she prefers to be doing something with her hands and gets bored easily. She loves the pool! Hello Kitty is a favorite character as are real life kitties! She can talk up a storm, using more and more words, and doesn't get frustrated with that very much. It's amazing how little minds work and how they can soak up a new language so quickly! <div><br></div><div>Four months home looks so different than that first month. We've all become more comfortable with each other (yes, moms and dads adjust too!), and while we've always loved Stella, that love has become more real and has changed as we have gotten to know her. The struggles before are becoming less and less now and our hearts are filled with joy over the obstacles overcome. She will cuddle now and climb up into our laps by her own accord, is easily comforted and accepting of loving gestures. The push and pull from before is more a give and take now. Grafting of a child into a family takes time, love, lots of patience, and more prayer than I can say in words. But it's coming beautifully, and for that we are very thankful. </div><div><br></div><div>This past month our family had some time to travel to Austin and San Antonio. Stella got her first Texas history lesson at the Alamo...mostly she and I got very sweaty walking around the city! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVkSEQpHEpVRLoEvI2GDqx1cMjHrcRaXOMIXvqV-yeuKB0Wquf5Hb9YOlZDj1JPzL5MTNCIIaBux20ArXmaMuxchIVrnHL8w8EFCJMiX86NASBgYQAMjJHBNkCQAMLgPvNb2M3yBsvv14B/s640/blogger-image-1366875118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVkSEQpHEpVRLoEvI2GDqx1cMjHrcRaXOMIXvqV-yeuKB0Wquf5Hb9YOlZDj1JPzL5MTNCIIaBux20ArXmaMuxchIVrnHL8w8EFCJMiX86NASBgYQAMjJHBNkCQAMLgPvNb2M3yBsvv14B/s640/blogger-image-1366875118.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0t6MqsWUPBfSzwcrvbfbIrfLvtF8Ir-iBqEuqCmUySgX11uHJV7fKR3NgkgCHv4U2o4aEo6-xyNHKk9vjbjSDFGtBaoAxN619H1Ah8u3K4cFKXgniPTefDDe_XA83mxyCKUGkEG-nb27/s640/blogger-image--137018696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0t6MqsWUPBfSzwcrvbfbIrfLvtF8Ir-iBqEuqCmUySgX11uHJV7fKR3NgkgCHv4U2o4aEo6-xyNHKk9vjbjSDFGtBaoAxN619H1Ah8u3K4cFKXgniPTefDDe_XA83mxyCKUGkEG-nb27/s640/blogger-image--137018696.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Daddy/Baba is teaching her to say "Come and get it Y'all"! ;)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">She got her first real taste of Texas barbecue too at the famous Salt Lick near Austin. She didn't quite know what to do with all that meat! But she enjoyed the ribs the most. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6etQS3lKGc-RWkJoHpWBvs2nSE3c0iJ8dN5ul9jY6LoaoXqaYpLg3TXidJvIC-vt4BTfYJk96M1iVXi54SgUvUYnbFukSEJE3gxyDKYYQVTdM3kE-bOd8fClSpPuzxpqho3ojath8rlcU/s640/blogger-image--773807570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6etQS3lKGc-RWkJoHpWBvs2nSE3c0iJ8dN5ul9jY6LoaoXqaYpLg3TXidJvIC-vt4BTfYJk96M1iVXi54SgUvUYnbFukSEJE3gxyDKYYQVTdM3kE-bOd8fClSpPuzxpqho3ojath8rlcU/s640/blogger-image--773807570.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7UN4M3u5Ta__wJ7D91nwuDWtM2ksP7-nzgmB6eXWp3_HX9RZVzRKQrdXIzpDEwCnSuJzCAQbyvJ_Bk4LmcCNyw_9ndsSFHhkS2LD_J_QZFT7hHc1VZjeajFZCVlJtlfUrmNeWJvhUjnV/s640/blogger-image-1666076585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7UN4M3u5Ta__wJ7D91nwuDWtM2ksP7-nzgmB6eXWp3_HX9RZVzRKQrdXIzpDEwCnSuJzCAQbyvJ_Bk4LmcCNyw_9ndsSFHhkS2LD_J_QZFT7hHc1VZjeajFZCVlJtlfUrmNeWJvhUjnV/s640/blogger-image-1666076585.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWPMaDbnxbFyjVeyO_q2TZ-rhAnrM4ubOnGPUxpc6lvRAH3ahasgWdDuTGWHChWXVZJ7UK30vrGkAOrsBY8db94Y7pRzURrxDP2tSOPMa5sbuC6jRz4mfNSbTaEO0yaCbCpQUiZ3SKYKO/s640/blogger-image--1940041710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWPMaDbnxbFyjVeyO_q2TZ-rhAnrM4ubOnGPUxpc6lvRAH3ahasgWdDuTGWHChWXVZJ7UK30vrGkAOrsBY8db94Y7pRzURrxDP2tSOPMa5sbuC6jRz4mfNSbTaEO0yaCbCpQUiZ3SKYKO/s640/blogger-image--1940041710.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Some days it feels like she's been with us forever - other days we still see the work ahead of us - but all days we treasure having her home with us. Happy 4 months sweet girl! </div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-85866132839262876272014-07-10T10:22:00.002-05:002014-07-10T10:22:58.544-05:00Taking love to ChinaBack to China! China became a special place when we went to bring home Stella and because she is a part of our family now, it will always hold a special place with us. The stories and moments we experience there are still told - even the crazy times! Now someone is going back! Melissa, my oldest daughter, China travel companion and now a high school graduate, wants to head back to China to work with special needs orphans. Her plans should take her back this Fall for a few months.<br />
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See this picture? This is Melissa holding a precious baby girl during our orphanage visit. I'm pretty sure it's what cemented in her God's calling for her to return. Before we even left she felt sure that mission work was where she was being led. Now she's sure. Volunteering at a special needs foster home and working with orphans - that's where she'll go first. Working with the least of these.... the fatherless... giving hope.... offering love.... So proud of my daughter for giving a voice to those who can not speak for themselves. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXZ4fkY2WaPrTfncUKU7X7549Lh47VWIq0ZdofaEnT7lhortt1lU5nNcR2dyMsChjHtpaTNr0ZkHMBMzgtrlm-MFTJHGFvx1T1r2mipVd1qSUaPXiTFtFaLuUiEhafQagZ1eKVr_nyBQK/s1600/IMG_0691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXZ4fkY2WaPrTfncUKU7X7549Lh47VWIq0ZdofaEnT7lhortt1lU5nNcR2dyMsChjHtpaTNr0ZkHMBMzgtrlm-MFTJHGFvx1T1r2mipVd1qSUaPXiTFtFaLuUiEhafQagZ1eKVr_nyBQK/s1600/IMG_0691.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Melissa worked to help design a special t shirt to help raise funds for her trip (she's also working this Summer and that will go toward her trip too). I'm sharing it here today because this is such a cool shirt! Raising enough for her plane ticket would be wonderful, but any and all funds raised will go toward her time in China and buying supplies to bring with her to take to the children. <br />
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<a href="https://www.bonfirefunds.com/melissas-journey-to-china" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rc_rL1yZBwAe02TL7z3LPoJBIuLbZKLvUnew0AxjrCyEDB5QulBoFhKhnv3NNBosmQNj6Cy6zjt7wFCh9YaTffeKpiFIM6_I1_iml24sN4SWixeWm7jZBs56RK_FBE0D8fL2nU7zEwrd/s1600/melissa+shirt.png" height="320" width="293" /></a></div>
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"Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders"..... Ya'll.... this speaks to all of us so well! Especially those of us who have adopted a child. If you feel led to support Melissa, or just want a cool t shirt - click this<a href="https://www.bonfirefunds.com/melissas-journey-to-china" target="_blank"> link </a>(or click on the picture above) and it will take you to the page to order one. She thanks you, we thank you! Bonfire funds ships the shirts out directly to you about 2 weeks after the fund closes (in just 11 days!) and the shirts are 100% cotton - and super comfy.<br />
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<i>And </i>you can say you have a tshirt from Stella! She fully supports her JieJie "Big Sister" - but she's going to miss her so much! Me too...<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-7918402699894454632014-07-10T09:44:00.002-05:002014-07-10T09:44:55.090-05:00Graduating MelissaYou know when you have a baby, hold her for the first time, caress her tiny fingers and toes, and wonder what she will become? I remember holding baby Melissa and praying that she would grow up to be His child. My baby girl graduated this week from High School and I couldn't be more proud of her! She's such a fun, loving, silly, caring, smart person! And most of all she knows she is His child most of all. I'm so thankful for the time we spent homeschooling her - since she was with me so much she is also a very good friend of mine!<br />
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Her little sisters LOVE her!</div>
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It's officially, OFFICIAL! She's done!</div>
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CONGRATULATIONS! You did it!</div>
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She didn't want a traditional cake so we made several fruit pies and homemade ice cream! Yum!</div>
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We picked this weekend to celebrate (great thing about homeschooling - even the flexibility to graduate when you want) since all the grandparents would be in town. So special to have them here!</div>
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She has some wonderful plans coming up and knows she's being called back to China to work with orphans. I'm going to miss her so much! We are praying for her to life an extraordinary life for Christ and can't wait to see where she will go. <br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-92186783352776874362014-06-30T18:15:00.001-05:002014-06-30T18:15:32.499-05:00China Last Week - The Bright Lights and Big City of Guangzhou<i>Becoming a new Mom again, this time to a 2 year old, hasn't left a lot of time for anything but caring for our children and home. We've hunkered down, cut out the excess and focused on the simple things in being a family. There's been adjustments and learning, crying and laughing. Two year olds - easily distracted, little bundles of energy who keep you entertained on one hand and a little crazy on the other. One second they want this but then they really wanted that! But so happy to celebrate today our 3 months gotcha day with our little sweetie! </i><br />
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It's been interesting lately to look back at our time in China adopting Stella. Seems like such a long time ago yet I often find myself still talking about our time in China. And seeing how far Stella has come since that time just a few months ago. Her language took off at an amazing speed. What a little sponge! She now understands pretty much everything we say to her. Just amazing! I remember those moments in China where I just wished she could understand me. Like the meltdown at the Aeon grocery store late one evening....ahem. Thinking about that makes me take a deep breath! Nothing like being a foreigner with a Chinese toddler screaming on the floor (because I wouldn't let her be in charge and push the cart in the super busy store). Goodness...the looks we got made me want to find that invisible cloak you can put on and disappear! Oh Gaungzhou... Our time there was very memorable.<br />
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We arrived in Guangzhou, China for the second week of our adoption trip. This is where all American adoptions are finalized as the US Consulate is located here. The goal of this part of the trip is to get your child's Visa to enter the US (they become an American Citizen once arriving home in the US). It's also a place to meet up with everyone else from the US adopting as we all spent a week in many different provinces but all end up here together! Our large travel group was such fun and we are so thankful to have met so many wonderful families. Guangzhou is huge - big city huge! 14 million people live here huge. Bright lights. Fancy signs and stores. International flare. Walking on the street is like walking in New York city (but bigger!) and you encounter nationalities from every nation. Close by there is Mexican food (Mr. Pancho's & Tekilas - yes, with a "k" Texas folks), Starbucks (thank you very much), McDonald's, Subway, lots of Chinese restaurants (wings, noodles, soups, rice and all the authentic fare), a bakery (Surprise Me with yummy treats), and our favorite was a bit of a walk but the handmade noodle shop should be experienced by everyone. We were careful not to drink the water or ice and we avoided raw veggies like lettuce - no one got sick! yay! I found lining up food and where to eat challenging at first here, but we found the places we liked, were affordable and frequented them. MickeyDs ice cream sure was comfort food!<br />
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<b><i>Saturday</i></b> was our medical appointment day. The travel clinic is the first step to leaving China. Stella did really well in the crowded clinic, and was so brave during her blood draw (for children over 2 they test for TB). Parents are not allowed to go into the room so it's "stand by the door with a lollipop ready for comfort" kind of waiting.<br />
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Bring snacks and prepare to wait! </div>
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I can't read this infamous blood draw door but found the Christmas decorations (in April) amusing!</div>
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First dip in the pool! Chilly! </div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday, </i>it was raining and we visited a presidential memorial hall. Very interesting - especially for the history buffs in our group. We also went to the Pearl and Jade Market. It was amazing! Floors and floors of pearls and jade. Here you can buy at wholesale prices and often the guides are able to negotiate even lower prices. I loved watching the young ladies string the pearls - they work very fast! I ended up with a jade bracelet that will be for Stella one day. Our guide told us it was traditional for the mother to wear it (on the left wrist since it's closest to the heart) then give it to the daughter when she turned 16. I also purchased some pearls for wedding gifts and had them strung into bracelets for all my girls and Brett's wife to be one day.<br />
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<i><b>Monday</b></i> our group went to the Chen Family Academy/Temple which is like a folk art museum. Here you can get ink paintings (the artist uses only his hand and they are beautiful), calligraphy, chops (a stamp with your child's name), and there's a gift shop with little red thread bracelets we thought were adorable (and not very expensive). <br />
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<i><b>Tuesday </b></i>we headed to the Guangzhou Zoo and tried to get a glimpse of some China pandas. They were eating and didn't want to come out to play... The red panda was neat to see though! Lots and lots of walking. Stella enjoyed the lions and playing peek a boo ("mer") with us! We ate dinner again at the handmade noodle shop that had quickly become our favorite place to eat.<br />
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Beef noodle soup (we could split this and share with Stella), a sandwich and cucumbers. Yum!</div>
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Laundry - hotel style. Fun watching Mama do the laundry in the tub!</div>
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The consulate appointment took place our last day, <b><i>Wednesday</i></b>. As a wife traveling without her husband, I found this part to just be more paperwork, but also so happy to have it behind us. It was the last step to going home! So many Chinese waited outside of the consulate hoping to get in. It seems really hard to get a visa to come to the US and to see so many (crowds we had to push through) waiting and hoping to get in, just makes you appreciate the freedom we have as US Citizens.<br />
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We also visited Shamian Island! Just beautiful. A quiet place to walk and enjoy the scenery away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It reminded me of Savannah, Georgia. We took a cab (just have the concierge help with this and pick up a cab back where they leave you out) here one day and then came back with our group another day. Jenny's Place - a must visit. A Christian woman runs the shop and she is just so sweet. Lots of trinkets and of course the squeaky shoes. We found Stella's cotton traditional dress at the China Doll shop and an inexpensive extra suitcase for all our goodies at Michaels. There's a nice Starbucks on the island and somewhere there is a tea room (which we missed somehow but sounded lovely).<br />
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More "Mer" - aka peekaboo!</div>
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This night we ventured out on the pearl river cruise. The entertainment was the highlight - just <i>very interesting</i> but held Stella's attention! Picture a Chinese woman juggling knives while Ricky Martin played in the background...Oh yeah...she was fascinated! She enjoyed her first ice cream snack (in the shape of a fish!) on the way back to our hotel that night. </div>
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<b><i>Thursday</i></b>, was our last full day in Guangzhou. A day to take it easy, pack up and gather some of our favorite snacks for the plane ride home. We had to wait until late afternoon to receive Stella's VISA so this day we just spent blowing bubbles, relaxing in the garden of our hotel. We walked to the Trustmart (China's version of Walmart), picked up Subway for lunch and walked to the farewell dinner with our group to a traditional Chinese restaurant. </div>
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See her little <i>gray</i> sandals??? They used to be white... ahem. It's a little dirty in the big city! But she wouldn't let us change her shoes for days and it was huge progress when she finally wanted to try on her new shoes.<br />
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Not a very good picture...but it represents something so important (besides the fact we had just landed in the US and were all exhausted!). Stella became a US citizen when our plane touched ground in Dallas, TX! Welcome to America - welcome HOME sweet girl! The trip is busy, exhausting and full. We enjoyed our time in China, but were SO happy to be home!<br />
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<i><b>Celebrating 3 months with her today!</b></i></div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-69310075312107763982014-06-19T15:11:00.001-05:002014-06-19T15:11:17.459-05:00TimeTime... There is never enough of it in a day and yet it goes by way too fast. It takes time to trust. Time to heal. Time brings happiness. Time makes children grow. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydCzx_7jotTYWSQTp4xtoI_z3jAKpcm0F4twAaMk5a61i6iZzf_ZwLnunHNAxiUEeBjwXeyRzUwVbMA1shNwWwi6AsyPy0Fm6FwGVKJBK5lZD27wtIb_PF9jFKn-_fgkEg_0B2OKEIRSk/s640/blogger-image-116414859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydCzx_7jotTYWSQTp4xtoI_z3jAKpcm0F4twAaMk5a61i6iZzf_ZwLnunHNAxiUEeBjwXeyRzUwVbMA1shNwWwi6AsyPy0Fm6FwGVKJBK5lZD27wtIb_PF9jFKn-_fgkEg_0B2OKEIRSk/s640/blogger-image-116414859.jpg"></a></div><br><div><br></div><div>In two months time we've watched a little girl from a small town in China, leave everything she's ever known and open her heart to a family she can call her own. Mine. Mine. Mine. She is two after all! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsWilz_9fGz__U8cGefKO2UXBOxtIf5SAmJxaAVBF0cGVw5eaxX1eHreHChl8ju6vloQ9y6uoh519ySwattdWZaRpi7lHN-FD7aLN-KDUsbMIwLxCXzUHeQsC5JBoiYT6wplQk1zvLJgy/s640/blogger-image-771783865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsWilz_9fGz__U8cGefKO2UXBOxtIf5SAmJxaAVBF0cGVw5eaxX1eHreHChl8ju6vloQ9y6uoh519ySwattdWZaRpi7lHN-FD7aLN-KDUsbMIwLxCXzUHeQsC5JBoiYT6wplQk1zvLJgy/s640/blogger-image-771783865.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>This sweetie came to us timid yet silly. She pushes the limits all the time to make sure someone is still in control. She now cuddles. She sings! It hasn't been easy and there's a long way to go but time will fix that. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ51ARF3r9Xtc5D9FCD0LS3mtGFSi7gi8ExOoUIWghQoDqoNhft5SAuhtU6zEl0Kb_8os08hmQ7ubxFqen3VHLzil_ZuJOih1-YdlpHSuvPTkUZ2kMS_aYmY9aqLjcBwP_AufVvDCnYOw/s640/blogger-image--1198386149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ51ARF3r9Xtc5D9FCD0LS3mtGFSi7gi8ExOoUIWghQoDqoNhft5SAuhtU6zEl0Kb_8os08hmQ7ubxFqen3VHLzil_ZuJOih1-YdlpHSuvPTkUZ2kMS_aYmY9aqLjcBwP_AufVvDCnYOw/s640/blogger-image--1198386149.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Bringing home Stella Claire has brought a whole new meaning to parenting children. Adoption is not natural. There's so much loss and learning what a family is all about. What a Mama is about. Imagine not knowing what a mother is? But as we work to graft this little one into our family, we praise God for all he's done to heal her heart. We will keep working, with time on our side. Helping her to grow...watching her sing. For it's a happy child that sings!</div></div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-17083780073685184932014-05-13T18:38:00.001-05:002014-05-13T18:48:46.993-05:00The "So Glad We Brought This" list!I can't wait to wrap up my posts about our China trip and make it all into a book for Stella Claire! Life is busy, busy, with a new toddler in our home and we are loving every little minute (even the not so easy moments!) of it. She's been home a month now! But I wanted to take time to write out what we were so glad we brought to China with us. Some of these items are on many of the packing lists that can be found around the web and on blogs of China mamas who have so carefully written it out for all of us! This is just my <i>short</i> list of items that you might not have thought about bringing, but were so glad to have them in China while adopting a child. <br>
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<b>The "So Glad We Brought This" list: </b><br>
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*<b>Baby carrier</b> (our child was a newly turned 2 yr old at adoption day) - I brought my Baby Hawk, but I saw others with Tulas, Ergos and Becos. Strollers are not always available but we did borrow one at the Garden Hotel in Guangzhou and were so glad to have it too!<br>
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*<b>Baby Blanket </b>(I made one for Stella and brought it with us to China. She has attached herself to it - for naps and nighttime at home now. "Blankie" is a very special and important part of our sleepy routine).<br>
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*<b>Sippy cups, snack up and plastic toddler spoons</b>. We had an "incident" in a restaurant with a broken porcelain spoon... Porcelain and two years don't go well together. Ahem. Bring the plastic.<br>
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*<b>Downloaded music to my iPhone - "Hidden in My Heart" lullaby hymns</b>. Played at each bedtime, and any time we needed to calm her heart or ours.<br>
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*<b>Iphone and Ipad </b>(and a VPN like PandaPow or ExpressVPN if you want to connect to blogger or Facebook).<br>
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*<b>Bubbles, stickers, stacking cups</b>. Just a few of our favorite toys!<br>
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*<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0054IH0RY/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc" target="_blank">Moneybelt</a></b>.<br>
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*<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00832SYPA/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">Compression socks</a></b> (for the long flights).<br>
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*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AANMVNQ/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i05?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"><b>Wireless phone charger!!!!</b> </a>I almost didn't bring this and oh.my.goodness. go get one if you don't have one. It will keep everything charged during those long days of not having access to outlets.<br>
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*<b>Some Chinese money</b>. I exchanged some with my US bank before leaving and we were all set to go once we landed in China (which was late at night and we were tired from the 24+ hrs of travel). I exchanged approx. $200 US and it was plenty for those first few days when we needed cash. All the hotels will exchange money easily once in China.<br>
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*<b>Diapers</b>. I took one pack and wish I had brought more. The China diapers are just different... They get damp quickly which makes for very frequent diaper changes and we went through them like crazy. I even bought the Pampers overnight ones in China. <br>
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*<b>Wipes</b> - Clorox wipes (for hotel and borrowed stroller), hand sanitizer wipes, facial cleansing wipes and baby wipes. Sounds like a lot but we actually ran out of the hand sanitizer wipes! And the facial ones were so convenient for quick airplane freshen uppers.<div><br></div><div>*<b>Little packs of tissues</b> (toilet paper is rare when out and about in China). <br>
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*<b>Diaper disposal bags</b> (with arm and hammer). Found these at Target in the baby section. Trust me - stuck in a hotel room with a stinky diaper is not pleasant! <br>
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*<b>Snacks</b> for the airplane and granola bars for quick breakfasts.<br>
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*<b>Ibuprofen</b>. <br>
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*<b>Lavender essential oil</b>. <br>
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*<b>Gentle baby body wash</b>. Used for baby and for cleaning bottles, etc!<br>
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So that's our short list of items to pack when traveling to China for an adoption! If you shop on Amazon, you can support New Day Foster Home (where Stella lived before we got her) by going <a href="http://www.newdaycreations.com/foster/help/support.htm" target="_blank">here </a>and then shopping through the link.<br>
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<br></div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-15041746103866132014-05-08T14:42:00.000-05:002014-05-08T17:11:27.541-05:00Goodbye Hohhot - Hello Guangzhou!I can't leave writing about Hohhot and Baotou without telling everyone about the delicious food Inner Mongolia has! The day we visited Baotou, we went for lunch at a traditional Hot Pot restaurant. So yummy and one of our favorite Chinese experiences! This was seriously some of the best food I have ever had. And we were hungry! We enjoyed the company and conversation with our travel mates, guide and driver.<br />
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Everyone begins with a pot of broth, flavored spicy or mild, and the waiters come light each pot to start the cooking process. <br />
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Our guide ordered our food (thank goodness!) - a variety of fresh vegetables (broccoli, chinese yams, mushrooms, spinach), meat (lamb), pastas and bread. Such beautiful food!</div>
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Each person cooks their own food in their own "hot pot". It's multitasking at it's finest! Cook, eat, cook, eat! This peanut sauce... super yummy. </div>
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Stella ate well and promptly fell asleep in her high chair. The day was exhausting for her. As we were leaving the waitress serving and watching us said to us "you love them just like biological children". Yes, yes we do. <br />
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Squatty potties... for our friends who have never experienced these.... Most public places in China do have western style toilets, but not this restaurant! Taking toilet paper with you is a must pretty much wherever you go. And forks too if you're not savvy with the chop sticks!<br />
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Our driver for the day was quiet on each trip, but his conversation during lunch is one I will never forget. As we talked and compared experiences in the US and China, he had this conclusion - "different cultures, people all the same". As we paid and thanked him after arriving back at the hotel, he said "God bless you" to us. He was a Christian. How I wish we had talked to him more about his life in China.<br />
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Some of our favorite Inner Mongolian goodies we picked up to bring back home (from the grocery store)- milk teas, milk candy, milk lollipops and some weird flavored Chinese potato chips (Numb and Spicy flavor anyone? Or how about Spicy Fish Soup Hot Pot flavor?)! Stella was given a traditional Mongolia dress, and an ornament from our guide and the international adoption worker.<br />
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We left Hohhot's mild, dry air (much like Colorado here in the US) and headed to Guangzhou's tropical, humid climate. Guangzhou is where all US adoptions are finalized as the US Consulate is located there. Everyone gets an appointment date to go over the US side of the paperwork and the goal is to get Stella a VISA to enter the US. <br />
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Stella's first airplane ride went incredibly well as she was pretty much oblivious to being on a plane and then took a nap. Napping in anything moving - cars, planes or buses was her napping location of choice on our China trip. <br />
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We were pretty much paparazzi material wherever went in China and people were always trying to take our picture (either straight out or snapping selfies with us in the background). We just smiled! This woman on the plane must have had a whole album of us on her phone...haha! Now she's on my blog!<br />
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Exhausted, we arrived in Guangzhou feeling like we had just left China and entered a huge international city (Guangzhou has a population of 14 million people!). We got checked into the Garden Hotel then went out to find food. We don't usually eat McDonald's at home, but when you are tired, familiar is good. McDonald's China style it was! A face time back home to end our day and we all crashed into bed. As long as the pillows are soft, it doesn't matter how hard the bed is... Missing home but feeling like the end is in sight on this day. One more week in China.<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-72088611346714883392014-05-07T14:41:00.002-05:002014-05-07T20:10:12.525-05:00Beauty in the brokenness - our orphanage visitThursday, our last full day in Hohhot, we spent driving about 3 hours each way to the city of Baotou. Baotou, named the city of deer, is where Stella spent the first 6 months of her life, so we wanted to visit the Baotou SWI which cared for her and her finding spot. We came to China for her and to help piece together anything from her past. Visiting the orphanage was an important part of that - one I had tried to prepare myself for way before this day. You can see pictures of orphanages, read stories of others visits, hear about the children.... but<i> nothing</i> can prepare you for entering one for the first time. I knew I would have a hard time dealing with what we would see and I was right. I've been writing this post in my head for almost a month now... wondering how I could put to words everything we saw.<br />
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Leaving the hotel, praying in my head for God to make us His hands and feet today and always. He broke our hearts for the fatherless and what I wanted to do most is let the children feel His love from us. As Stella's Mama, I also wanted to protect her on this day and keep her secure. The drive was beautiful with the mountains alongside the highway and apricot tree blossoms blooming. Baotou is a beautiful city and the orphanage was on the other side of the city. As we pulled in the first thing that captures your eye is the black metal gate where babies are often left and the colorful flags on top. Such irony.<br />
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I've tried many times to put words to our visit and this is what I want to remember most about that day. <i>The beauty</i>. The beauty in the brokenness. We live in a broken world, full of tragedy, trauma, sadness. But see - there is beauty here everywhere I looked.<br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in an orphan made a daughter. Held close in her carrier, we viewed the orphanage together. Snuggling close whenever a nanny approach her. She only wanted Mama even through the little packaged french breads they offered her. Spoiling her by holding her - this is what they chided me for - but no, just protecting her heart on this day.<br />
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<i>Beauty </i>in the nannies smiles. They all wanted to see Stella, the child they had cared for and remembered. She is so beautiful they said and they wanted to touch her. <br />
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<i>Beauty </i>in the nannies souls. Loving on the children in their care. For how long? Maybe a lifetime (some will never be adopted or leave), maybe a few months (some, sadly will die here), maybe a year or two (some will find families of their own again). What hearts these precious women have! We were told they love the children from the bottom of their hearts and I could see this in every one we talked to.<br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in the sunshine that flooded the baby room. Filled with little wooden cribs, and seeing where Stella slept, emotions overcame. I saw the beauty, and yet, I felt the enormous weight, the burden of being an orphan. The little babies too sick to be held. Deep breath. How will we ever forget them? We won't. Our Emme Rose was a sick little baby in an orphanage not that long ago. How do we help them? Sometimes all we can do is pray from afar for Jesus to intervene and take them home. I prayed over the little one with his head so swollen from hydrocephalus to be helped. <br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in an orphan's smile as she sat in her nannies lap in the colorful playroom. How that little girl smiled at us and completely captured our hearts! Melissa asked to hold her....gently, being so very careful of her head and back. Gentleness...please feel loved sweet baby girl. Coming to my knees, even with Stella strapped to me, I had to touch them and let them know they were loved.<br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in children in the dining hall eating noodles from metal bowls. Tummies full.<br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in language unspoken. Communicating through love of children. I knew just what she was saying even before the translator could come over to help us. These two girls - same age - and this nanny had cared for them both. One for just a short time, the other still. One short haired an orphan child and the other - my daughter with her full head of black hair. How did one get chosen to leave and the other to stay? So many whys.<br />
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<i>Beauty</i> in the child that stayed. <i>Beauty</i> in the child that left.<br />
<i>"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11. </i><br />
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There was so much brokenness in this day and so much beauty as we brought in the love of Jesus. Our world is so broken, yet He has not forgotten a single child of His. There is <i>beauty</i> in trusting in Jesus.<br />
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Way on the other side of Baotou, near the factories, is the hospital where our daughter was left. I'm never sure what word to use to describe the act of leaving a child. Is it "given up" or "abandoned"? All our paperwork in China says she was "abandoned" here by the hospital gate. Imagine the heartbreak of doing either. Answers to her questions about why she was left here will be so very hard to answer. The street was busy the day we visited and the guards in a booth by the gate, eyed us closely. Our visit rushed because of their questioning looks and our guide wanting us to make it quick. She didn't want any trouble with them as she had words with them on another occasion. Not at all how I imagined visiting the finding spot. Wouldn't it have been neat to meet the guard who found her and try to learn more about that day? Yes, of course. When the questions come, I pray that maybe someday, Stella will see the <i>beauty</i> in this as well....someday she will hopefully understand and know that she wouldn't be our precious, wanted daughter, if she had never been left here. I want to make sure she knows that this place exists and is part of her past. But that her<i> beauty</i>, that God gave her, overshadows the brokenness. She is so very beautiful - perfectly and wonderfully made. </div>
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<i>"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal". 2 Corinthians 4:18</i><br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-18391531077622887032014-04-30T23:45:00.000-05:002014-05-07T09:08:18.494-05:00Time in HohhotThe first week of Stella's adoption trip was spent in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia which is the capital of the province. All adoptions for Inner Mongolia take place here. We woke up on Tuesday, April 1st, ready to make Stella an official member of our family. Only Stella didn't really want to wake up.... She would wake up, look around, then close her eyes again and go back to sleep. She repeated this several times. Wake, look, sleep again. I could only watch her and think to myself that she must want to wake up somewhere else. She must be saying to herself "Maybe if I close my eyes one more time, I will wake up from this dream, right?". "I'll wake up in my own bed that I've known for the past year and a half with the people who know me and speak my language". "These strangers standing over me will disappear!". "Please tell me this is an April Fools joke?!".<br />
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No foolin' on this day! We were told to be downstairs at 8:45am and "don't be late!". We managed a super quick breakfast snack (sleepy girl didn't leave us much time to eat and wasn't very happy with me about that...ahem) then we met up with our guide and the other family traveling with us to adopt their precious daughter. Present in the conference room was the orphanage official from the day before, a notary, our guide, the governor and all of us adopting. Still emotional from being so far away from the rest of my family and husband - especially on this important day - I found myself fighting back tears. Stella glued herself to my lap. What a nervous mess we both were. They brought me more paperwork to fill out and Stella sealed a paper with her red handprint. The governor asked me "Are you satisfied with her?". "ABSOLUTELY!", "Absolutely, yes", I answered. And with that China lost an orphan and she became our beloved daughter. <br />
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We spent the rest of the day with our sweet girl, just playing and getting to know her. A visit to the grocery store and our first non-solicited hug ((((group hug)))) from Stella down the snack aisle. Love! She played and was happy all day long. As evening approached we braved a taxi ride to visit a special American family working to bring more love to orphans with their New Day North project. We were thrilled to be able to bring some supplies to them and enjoyed our time with them immensely. Stella stayed glued to my lap for the evening, finally relaxing with a huge sigh on the taxi ride back to the hotel as she knew Mama and Jie Jie were not leaving her. Night time brought tears once again, but for not as long and she slept all night in her crib after taking her nighttime bottle.<br />
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Glued to Mama's lap.</div>
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Sealing the adoption paperwork with her little red handprint.</div>
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The official red book holding our adoption decree.</div>
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Wednesday was our only day to sleep in a little so we sure made good use of it! Stella was able to sleep until she woke on her own and we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at the hotel buffet. She relaxed and trusted us a little more as we were able to do her hair (quickly!) but the shoes couldn't be changed. Trust takes time. </div>
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We received her passport after visiting the notary office and very official passport office which concluded our paperwork for Stella's province. The rest of the week we could sight see and learn more about where she is from. Our guide took us to the Inner Mongolian Museum where we learned about the land (dinosaur exhibits, the grasslands) and the people (space exploration, ancient nomads and the famous Genghis Kahn). The last exhibit we went through was titled "God's people" which of course perked my interest. Wondering what exactly we would see here... It was an exhibit on Genghis Kahn and our guide told us that the people looked to him as a God and worshipped him. </div>
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The Inner Mongolia symbol which could be seen on many buildings. Very pretty.</div>
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Genghis Kahn exhibit.</div>
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The Inner Mongolia symbol again.</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Stella let me carry her in our carrier for the first time - as long as she had a snack. Baby steps! </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Leaving the museum we saw kites in the sky everywhere. In Springtime, it's something the people like to do and they were everywhere. The highlight of the day was our dinner at a local "hole in the wall" dumpling restaurant. Melissa wanted some authentic food so we asked our guide to take us somewhere. What we will remember most about this dinner was the man who owned the restaurant and his </span>hospitality. The food was delicious and the vinegar (he brought out his special bottle just for us - "the good stuff") was incredibly yummy. As we were leaving and thanking him, he gave me a bottle to take home. We will also remember the driver, who took us to all our appointments, museum visit and joined us for dinner. How he snapped a selfie on his phone with all of us in it (many people wanted to take pictures with us on the trip) and how he played the same song over and over - finally serenading us on the way back to the hotel! Such a fun evening. The sights, sounds and smells on that street in Hohhot... that is what I will always think of when I think of China. </div>
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Our last day in Hohhot, Thursday, we spent visiting the orphanage and Stella's finding spot. </div>
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Two very special places - deserving their own post.</div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-47066241921077024782014-04-28T16:31:00.002-05:002014-04-29T09:18:03.980-05:00Letters to Stella - Gotcha DayAs an adult adoptee, I know how important having answers to questions about "where I came from" and "how did I get here" help mold a child's life and provide security for their growth. So in these next few posts (mingled with our travel memories from China of course), I'm writing letters to Stella from Mama. One day she will read them. When she is ready. And the questions come. I pray these bring her some answers.<br>
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March 31, 2014<br>
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Dear Precious Stella Claire,</div>
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Today is the day they brought you to us - the day we finally came together. Many families call this "Gotcha Day" or "Forever Family Day" and it brings us great joy to say "We gotcha Stella Claire"! For months we've been waiting for this moment to arrive. We've watched as other families came together and tried to prepare ourselves for what our moment with you would look like. We knew their could be tears, that you could be terrified of us and shut down, but we also knew that you could be happy on this day. What we didn't know is how you would<i> actually </i>be. </div>
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The morning of March 31st came early, as we still struggled to sleep any later than 5am due to the time change from the US to China (13 hours). Melissa managed to sleep a little bit later but not I, so I showered and dressed early. We had facetimed back home the night before and knew that everyone was waiting to hear from us on this very big day! We could feel all the prayers from back home. We were all so excited! Your Daddy/Baba sent me a video of Brett saying "it's a Happy Day" (his cute phrase we often hear when it's a sunny day outside). That had me in tears as I was missing everyone back home so much and my emotions overflowed. It was indeed a very Happy Day! We headed down to our first breakfast buffet early as our guide had told us to be down in the lobby and ready for you at 8:40am. By 7:45am we were back upstairs watching intently out our 8th floor hotel room window for anyone who might be bringing a child toward the hotel. You had taken an overnight train with a nanny from New Day, Shirley, and would be arriving in Hohhot with her in the morning. We didn't know what time the train would come in, but knew you would walk together from the train station. </div>
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My devotion for the day (From Jesus Calling), so fitting for our day - "it was peace that was their deepest need: to calm their fears and clear their minds". I prayed for the Peace of Jesus to come over us all, especially you.<br>
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8:05am - We can't sit still any longer and pack up the snacks, lollipop, drink cup and toy we had ready for you and head down to the Sheraton lobby where we will meet you. Not knowing where we might be meeting in the very open lobby, we start looking around and there you were! Early!</div>
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Standing next to the nanny, who was sitting in a chair in the hotel business center, was you - our precious Stella Claire. Quickly, we got out our cameras, unprepared for this scenario, and said "Hi", "Ni Hao", introducing ourselves and sat down. You took us in, while I said over and over how beautiful you were, then tried to communicate with your nanny, who was obviously telling me that you had called for Nai Nai and Yeh Yeh over and over on the way there. They were very special to you and I know they loved you very much, as you did them. So they are special to me too - sweet foster grandparents. You came closer and I told you that your shoes were so cute and had little kitties on them. Even closer, I gave you a new cup of water, thinking you might be thirsty from the trip, and then I whispered to you "nee shir baow bay" (you are so precious) which you then whispered right back to me. I couldn't help but wear a big smile - there were no tears, just peace! You smiled too. We played games around the table with you, pushing hotel pamphlets to each other, and peek a boo or "mer". We let you come to us and it worked wonderfully!<br>
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Our guide, Aggie, finally arrived, also shocked that you were already here, and then the orphanage official, Mrs. Xue arrived (bearing snacks, yogurt drinks and lollipops). They moved us to another location in the lobby with a little more room to complete the paperwork we needed to do for the day. Today would be our taking custody of you, tomorrow would be our official adoption day. All my signatures were sealed with a red thumb print. The orphanage official recounted to us about your days in the orphanage and how they loved you so much there. We were told that they would remember you when we visited later in the week as you were so beautiful. </div>
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The photographer arrived to take your passport photo and our family photo. My stomach dropped, knowing that your Daddy/Baba wouldn't be in our picture. He really wanted to be there - meeting you and spending time in your birth country. One day, we've decided - we will all go back together. </div>
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You stayed busy during the paperwork, taking in the hotel, snacking on yogurt drinks and lollipops. By the time we were finished, you were ready to move as your exploring grew bigger, just as your world was now growing much bigger. Qingyundian, the township where New Day is located, and where you lived for the past year and a half, is a small town with mostly farmers and people who live simply. Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, the province you are from, is much larger with a population of about 3 million. This place is nothing like you have ever seen before and I can only imagine what you must have been thinking as newly turned two year old. You remained happy and playful or quiet and observing the whole time. Your silly side also started to come out!</div>
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It was time to leave now, and go up to our room. Shirley, the New Day nanny, quickly hid behind a plant in the lobby, but not before I could catch her eye and mouth "thank you". She nodded and we walked away. You started to cry. It was all so much to take in for you. You cried for "Nai Nai" over and over as we headed for the elevator. Once in the elevator and in our room, you became playful - playing "mer" non stop or being silly. We played like that for hours. You were so busy and happy. </div>
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Facetiming back home was the first thing we did back in the room. Everyone, Daddy/Baba, sisters and big brother, were waiting to meet you! Talking to them, you played on the desk with the phone (unplugged shortly thereafter...) as everyone called to you from the screen. This is such a special picture! We gotcha sweet girl! </div>
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We ordered room service later, not wanting to go out again so soon and not wanting to upset you by leaving the hotel. We were so surprised when you knew just what to do with french fries and ketchup! (Jie Jie - big sister - was craving some American food). Bonding over the sharing of French fries - so sweet! </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The window would be a source of comfort for you over the next few days. A place to play with toys, a place to sit and snack, a place to be comforted and go to sleep. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">We had to go out later in the day and since you didn't want to stop playing (or take a nap), we headed out to try and find the grocery store as we needed some formula and snacks you liked. Taking a left out of the hotel, we found it in the basement of the Victory center just down the street. The fresh air felt great and it must have helped tire you out. As soon as we started shopping, you fell asleep in my arms. Your head was so sweaty and your body heavy as you finally relaxed enough to rest. I loved every minute of it. </span></div>
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You quickly woke again when the cool, fresh air hit us as we walked back down the street to the hotel. We knew we should try a bath as you were sweaty and your clothes were dirty. In China, they don't bathe children very often, especially in the winter. You were also wearing two layers of clothing. You had been fine with me changing your diaper so we were hopeful that bath time would be okay too. Wrong. With bathroom lights dimmed softly, quiet lullabies playing (I downloaded the Hidden in Your Heart hymn lullabies on my phone before we left - and they proved to be so comforting to you), we put some bubbles and a little water in the tub. You were curious about the water, wanting to touch it, but adamant about not taking off any clothing. With gentleness, and a big sister willing to change into her bathing suit to show you it was okay, we got you into the tub and clean. I was sure you would be staying in the same clothes for five days and we were okay with that if that was what you needed. Learning to trust takes time. Getting to know you takes time. But by the time it was time to get out and dressed for bed - you were enjoying the bath so much we couldn't get you out! Waiting snacks finally did the trick and we dressed you for bed. The sweet braids we had known you in were now out, and you weren't happy with my touching your hair to do anything but quickly brush it out. Dressing you was different as you didn't want to help - it went much like dressing a newborn baby. With your hair down, you looked like a different girl. It somehow felt freeing to me.</div>
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As nighttime came, you refused dinner (just oatmeal in our room as we were all too tired to go out) and you refused the bottle I was told you took before bed. Your calling for Nai Nai increased and I tried to soothe you the best I could. The window was a place of comfort as we could both look out at the city lights. With lullabies playing, the special mama made blankie tucked around you, I prayed over you as you cried. Such sad, sad sobbing cries. It broke my heart. Rocking, standing, swaying - repeat. Tonight I tucked you into bed with me, as you finally fell asleep on my chest. Holding you close, I replayed the day in my head and tried to commit to memory everything to tell you one day. With tears on my cheek, I thanked God for bringing you to us and cherished you in my arms as you slept. Tomorrow you will be ours forever. </div>
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<i>The day we got you. </i></div>
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<i>A special day. </i></div>
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<i>A happy day. </i></div>
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<i>A sad day.</i></div>
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<i>A day to give thanks.</i></div>
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<i>A day to cherish.</i></div>
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<i>To always remember.</i></div>
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<i>You are so precious. Nee shir baow bay.</i></div>
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Loving you sweet girl,</div>
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Mama</div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-85639412287463118312014-04-25T16:34:00.001-05:002014-04-28T16:34:58.941-05:00Well that didn't go as planned...Okay - the plan was to blog from China, update everyone with our days and pictures and that obviously did NOT happen. Honestly, we fell into bed exhausted each night and woke early each morning. A very busy toddler kept us moving, moving, moving and the traveling, sightseeing and just keeping up with our group left us with very little time. Stella only napped when we were on the go (in a car, bus or plane!). What time we did have, we used to FaceTime back home with my husband and children whom I missed so much! See -<br />
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This is who I left in charge of my children... :-) He is undoubtedly the best man for the job. </div>
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Meeting Stella Claire for the first time! </div>
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Chatting with Daddy/Baba back home. </div>
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Exhausted - jet lagged. Who takes pictures of their sleeping Mom anyway??? My daughter and travel companion!</div>
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More to come.... our China days and our first days with Stella Claire!</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-28117053796751563982014-03-28T03:04:00.001-05:002014-03-29T06:46:32.922-05:00From East to WestIn writing this from 35,000 ft on a Korean Airlines 777. We've been in the air for almost 14 hours now and with 40 min left until we touch down in Seoul/Incheon. Melissa (my oldest daughter) and I left early Thursday morning to begin our trip to bring Stella Claire home. One more flight and we will land in Beijing. I think the hardest part of traveling is just sitting for so long and doing nothing. It is looooonnng. There's really nothing to compare it to. We've watched countless movies (the airline has many newer movies to watch), watched our flight on the flight tracker screen travel across the top of the world, and had plenty of snacks and meals. They come around every hour or so with drinks, snacks, warm towels and there were two meals. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEino-zXv7ppTb4CYC2uc94t64x8aiHWxroTGzhNNXqJD_yZ81UmTsubAsyiKw3yVH0mifHJSXXvbS9-WCOYSHpaphfYpxGDhU2zFhlw8uHzyLut31YcYmMxWWu9Yu9mkBtlec7EgWWxYFyC/s640/blogger-image--833541104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEino-zXv7ppTb4CYC2uc94t64x8aiHWxroTGzhNNXqJD_yZ81UmTsubAsyiKw3yVH0mifHJSXXvbS9-WCOYSHpaphfYpxGDhU2zFhlw8uHzyLut31YcYmMxWWu9Yu9mkBtlec7EgWWxYFyC/s640/blogger-image--833541104.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3BCM7_zaV-cXdv8nxyAzKtcTaJoEMtr-WroAPA2mgfNcK-Em6VKHl33dIa26i-PzLO5G9QRqOXLYyVrV1mHI9r45TD0XUo55FTa5lOnyxw6gxi7dV71m2fwTkF4R6rIY3-eXfYXEUVJs/s640/blogger-image--1083359732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3BCM7_zaV-cXdv8nxyAzKtcTaJoEMtr-WroAPA2mgfNcK-Em6VKHl33dIa26i-PzLO5G9QRqOXLYyVrV1mHI9r45TD0XUo55FTa5lOnyxw6gxi7dV71m2fwTkF4R6rIY3-eXfYXEUVJs/s640/blogger-image--1083359732.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The airline really is very nice and the flight attendants are all so pretty dressed up in their uniforms. </span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here's a few pictures from this morning when we were all awake and cheery looking. Now, everyone, including us, looks like they just rolled out of bed with severe bed head! :) </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qXcyggswJdFFNQ-VsX4ABsD9HIbnzw5XeO6oIJPcIIrC7M60qJNDFtBIdW0EpdsYodwj2yathp1sIwjqzVoreBagMy2maRlGf3VsxAnYN5FVM2wR-ht_GDh4XIncuJgU3UZ-5HOjxvf7/s640/blogger-image--1140769094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qXcyggswJdFFNQ-VsX4ABsD9HIbnzw5XeO6oIJPcIIrC7M60qJNDFtBIdW0EpdsYodwj2yathp1sIwjqzVoreBagMy2maRlGf3VsxAnYN5FVM2wR-ht_GDh4XIncuJgU3UZ-5HOjxvf7/s640/blogger-image--1140769094.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All packed and ready to go get our girl!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdi8R-NVS2F2r0GD4bUbJtw91Fh8rwojlpgeww1c67F3Xv8JLAKOsUpfym7SZC54ahK5pKuXh-S11P_hH6qMXuIQMjLvjO9YB4Sr0JxMaM-yVL-395nOFfbNpRENAxPZs6oK5RrvnAHV0/s640/blogger-image--1811059551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdi8R-NVS2F2r0GD4bUbJtw91Fh8rwojlpgeww1c67F3Xv8JLAKOsUpfym7SZC54ahK5pKuXh-S11P_hH6qMXuIQMjLvjO9YB4Sr0JxMaM-yVL-395nOFfbNpRENAxPZs6oK5RrvnAHV0/s640/blogger-image--1811059551.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ready for our long flight - 15 hours from DFW to Seoul. I am so blessed to have my sweet girl on this trip with me. I am excited to see what God is going to do on this trip and beyond excited to meet Stella soon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A fun, lighter part of our trip this morning was seeing Dennis Quaid on our first flight. Celebrity sighting! He was sitting three rows behind us. Too bad we couldn't watch the Parent Trap on the plane! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh my goodness! We just flew across the world! </div><br></span></div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-4690057347521465192014-03-12T08:55:00.001-05:002014-03-12T08:56:27.648-05:00She knows<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">She knows she has a forever family ... A family who will be there forever. I'm going to let the pictures do the talking because they pretty much leave me speechless. </span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSnXCl-jAK8_Hqb_qvtIkEv9DluYjFFBq2R-BrxjXbtH0-cc7k9DTzmLEfHEPLXVJE-1kJLKwxj9iuUTU_t67NPjjlDJEJlATEvtxH_vhxCHZINyU1sZGwyFQ6Jlv-nmQQW0G1R_suHmk/s640/blogger-image-2077908313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSnXCl-jAK8_Hqb_qvtIkEv9DluYjFFBq2R-BrxjXbtH0-cc7k9DTzmLEfHEPLXVJE-1kJLKwxj9iuUTU_t67NPjjlDJEJlATEvtxH_vhxCHZINyU1sZGwyFQ6Jlv-nmQQW0G1R_suHmk/s640/blogger-image-2077908313.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-H-c9QLT27j_9QX1icJX-lAcnERJpI8APbaR5FvnSK1CLpXW3IEn9QzM-4UwwHmJbtxkPJLVIlRzFcJYx9hSAWlUx-ydBcPBl__SiYVASpFnU0sn_W2aYfAsJPVRm5DHWopySGDvcXqIO/s640/blogger-image-303542962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-H-c9QLT27j_9QX1icJX-lAcnERJpI8APbaR5FvnSK1CLpXW3IEn9QzM-4UwwHmJbtxkPJLVIlRzFcJYx9hSAWlUx-ydBcPBl__SiYVASpFnU0sn_W2aYfAsJPVRm5DHWopySGDvcXqIO/s640/blogger-image-303542962.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSN-6L-f4cnt_zQ9WlFbNDjXGh9bEOlWPUTDT6stCU-8G3PQpUx5a5wKbj96BopGzo7VGbIm4xiMP-LJkaPaMgeIxkFqtP4RMGbB8JCpcer9IZFLP6asV0UMizDspJW6pDRlR2LbTc8UDQ/s640/blogger-image-767559183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSN-6L-f4cnt_zQ9WlFbNDjXGh9bEOlWPUTDT6stCU-8G3PQpUx5a5wKbj96BopGzo7VGbIm4xiMP-LJkaPaMgeIxkFqtP4RMGbB8JCpcer9IZFLP6asV0UMizDspJW6pDRlR2LbTc8UDQ/s640/blogger-image-767559183.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oqxaEiMVZsihEXricQd7mWoFI0NyHS7lqM0UHt7WBCwUrJKlw3t63Wmhdm6E4hNAD69kvmKEVud8QkWNnuNlLWHMO63IKG9K0JRRvQsLZMFq7GCYKkR3r0DLeRF0WMniHSBoluW2afBh/s640/blogger-image--1172896330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oqxaEiMVZsihEXricQd7mWoFI0NyHS7lqM0UHt7WBCwUrJKlw3t63Wmhdm6E4hNAD69kvmKEVud8QkWNnuNlLWHMO63IKG9K0JRRvQsLZMFq7GCYKkR3r0DLeRF0WMniHSBoluW2afBh/s640/blogger-image--1172896330.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h92vrFL9mHUoe9l-RL7nvkXM8agqo5rBvyA799VeJah7wteOKHT-yG4ZZeronvGlmVP7xrDbe546ejLvGwcnjyjoBwKV7QGzO6QNtjpT0xs0tveS7IupflEYWgWRHsEnx2m_Cl2VJk3S/s640/blogger-image-26903845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h92vrFL9mHUoe9l-RL7nvkXM8agqo5rBvyA799VeJah7wteOKHT-yG4ZZeronvGlmVP7xrDbe546ejLvGwcnjyjoBwKV7QGzO6QNtjpT0xs0tveS7IupflEYWgWRHsEnx2m_Cl2VJk3S/s640/blogger-image-26903845.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We are excited too sweet Stella. </div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-61636234116107728632014-02-28T06:48:00.000-06:002014-02-28T15:30:54.204-06:00Part 4 - Choosing to love(If you're just joining the story here, go back and read <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-1-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-2-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a> and <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-3-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 3</a> first!)<br />
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What a blessing it was to see Stella in her Christmas present we sent her. Our hearts were hurting over losing Emme and it brought smiles to our faces to see her. When we looked at Stella, we couldn't imagine how such a beautiful child could also be an orphan. With our hearts still broken, we knew she wasn't yet matched with a family of her own, and we started to wonder if we should ask about her file status. Knowing full well going in that it was practically <i>impossible</i> to be matched with a child that was considered "pre-identified". You see, China adoption files can go to any one of many lists. There's the shared list (where all agencies can pull files from), there's agency specific lists (and there's many agencies) or a file can even go to another country (like Europe). Sometimes it takes years and years before a child's file is ready. There were so many things against being matched with Stella. But we had to ask. She had already grown to be so loved by us. We just didn't know when would be the<i> right </i>time to ask.<br />
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New Years eve morning arrived and with it the usual morning check of my email. As I sat in bed thinking about when would be the right time to ask about Stella, I opened my email to her monthly update and this picture of her in her Christmas present. (yep...<i>goosebumps</i>)<br />
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I quickly sent Jeff a text telling him what had transpired and asking what he thought - did this mean we should ask now??? His reply back - yes, I think we should ask now. Okay...deep breath. Let's just ask. So I sent off an email to our social worker, knowing full well it was New Years Eve and she probably wasn't working. But it was sent. We had asked. </div>
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Our agency reply was so sweet, they knew we had prayed over this and they knew it was still very much in our hearts to adopt. They also were hurting from the loss of our Emme - I know they were. They agreed to check with their in country rep about Stella's file, but cautioned us with all the above notes on how unlikely it is to be matched with a New Day child. Needle in a haystack - we understood and were fine with waiting to see what would happen. We had given everything up to God and knew He would find us the child meant to be in our family in the right time. </div>
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Our lives had started to return to normal after all the rushing around and the waiting to hear if we were going to China. It was nice. A routine after the holidays felt good. </div>
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Two weeks passed and a call from our agency came. They said that they were confident that they could get Stella's file! Confident! We were shocked! It sounded like her file would be ready in about a couple of weeks. And heres the important part - her orphanage had <b>just </b>formed a brand new (like in December new!) partnership with our adoption agency. That's why they were confident about obtaining her file. </div>
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Four days...yes, four days later we had her file in our hands! AMAZING! Only God. This little one we had been sponsoring since she was just six months old, had prayed for her to find her forever family, and had been able to send gifts to.... <b>she</b> is going to be <i>our </i>little girl. We feel so blessed. </div>
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<i>Soli Deo Gloria. </i></div>
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<i>And that is how we came to be matched with our DAUGHTER. Stella Claire. A precious blessing from above. "Every good and perfect gift is from above" James 1:17</i></div>
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We are obviously thrilled and can not wait to meet this little girl. Chosen by us - but truly chosen by God. </div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-52778865974742684282014-02-27T06:20:00.001-06:002014-02-28T15:23:35.408-06:00Part 3 - Choosing to love(Here's <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-1-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a> and <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-2-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a>!)<br />
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We were well on our way to being parents again as our paperwork made it's way through the various stages. Being matched with our Emme Rose in May kept us busy as we prepared for her. <a href="http://holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2013/12/angel-wings.html" target="_blank">Her story</a> is part of<i> this</i> story - it's impossible to keep her out of it. We loved on her from across an ocean for months until she was taken home. She held us while God did his work on our family, changing us from the inside out, keeping us in his perfect timing. What a beautiful gift she was.<br />
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December 2013 - it's not that long ago, so we can look back quickly to see all that happened. We were in limbo, waiting...waiting...more waiting. Distractions were our best plan to keep busy. There were movies and playdates. And some shopping (<i>ahem</i>)... Christmas was almost here and we couldn't wait until the foster home posted pictures of their Christmas party. New Day is such a special place. Our sponsor child would again be receiving a present from us and everyone had fun picking out something to send to her. This time, as she was a little older, we decided on some dress up fun! It wasn't long before we had pictures to look at showing her opening the present and trying it on. So precious. So very precious. I love how her foster grandma cares for her and obviously loves her very much.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Time to unwrap! That's our shoe box on top! eek! So exciting!</span></div>
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I think she likes the candy canes we sent too! So cute!</div>
(Part 4 - the final part - tomorrow)Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-79913788312294656002014-02-26T07:18:00.002-06:002014-02-28T15:21:59.928-06:00Part 2 - Choosing to love(If you're just joining the story, be sure to read <a href="http://www.holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2014/02/part-1-choosing-to-love.html" target="_blank">Part 1 </a>first!)<br />
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The morning after I asked my husband, Jeff, if we could sponsor a child at New Day Foster Home while we prayed through the decision to adopt, a baby girl with captivating brown eyes arrived at the foster home. She needed sponsors, and I had just gotten the go ahead to sponsor a little one. I signed us right up! At just six months old, there was a good chance we could be her sponsors for a while since most children are not adopted that young from China. Everyone in the family was excited to be sponsoring such a sweet girl and we hung her picture - the very first one I ever saw of her - on our refrigerator where it has hung since. The kids wanted to send her presents immediately, as the foster home allows gifts sent to the children. <br />
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Christmas 2012 was approaching and it was such fun letting the children pick out presents to send to the foster home. We sent our sponsor child a gift as well as another child (they let each child have three sponsors at Christmas). Packed into a box we wrapped a pink ball, a "so adorable" outfit, a cup, and a few donated medical items for the foster home. We waited to hear if the package arrived safely - our first time ever shipping anything to China. Pictures soon were posted of the foster homes Christmas party and we saw her with the gifts we sent! Sitting in her foster mamas lap, she looked sweaty all bundled up in many layers (China mamas dress their babies in many layers during the winter as many buildings are not heated there and it can be very cold), and slightly overwhelmed by the festivities (like most babies her age). <br />
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We had also made an important decision that December to go ahead and start our paperwork for adoption. How exciting! We were nervous too! Adoption is so much a leap of faith - jumping in not knowing where it will take you or where the funding will come from to complete it. We decided to jump. <br />
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Being sponsors of a child at New Day gives you many opportunities to watch that child grow. Monthly updates are sent with a short description of what the child is doing that month - like what new thing they have learned to do (crawling or walking), what they like to do and how they are doing. Each monthly update also comes with a recent picture of the child. We also get a calendar each year made with pictures of the children. It's so fun watching them grow knowing we are helping in a small way and we pray they will find their forever family soon. <br />
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Our homestudy was nearing completion in the Spring of 2013 and our sponsor child at New Day had grown very special to us. Those who knew were adopting would come into our home, see her picture on our refrigerator and ask us if she was the one we were adopting. No, we just sponsor her - was always our response. And then I'd tell them about New Day and the wonderful care they give the children! <br />
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Her first birthday was in March and again we watched from afar as the present we sent made it's way to her. This time we sent a warm fleece outfit and a blankie (a small square with pink stars and pink silk trim). The blankie was a set of two and by this time I had started to wonder who we would be matched with so in my wondering, I kept the second blankie of the set. Wouldn't it be special if we were matched with her and I had the matching blankie to show her one day??? Totally silly of me to keep it. The odds of being matched with her were one in a million. Yet I stuck it away and mailed off the second package we had ever sent to China. (Part 3 tomorrow)Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-2348084871656433712014-02-25T08:13:00.000-06:002014-02-27T05:51:06.966-06:00Part 1 - Choosing to love This post shouldn't be hard to write, yet I'm finding myself stuck on how to begin. I opened the page ready to write and share the amazing story God is writing for our family. But here I sit stuck on how to begin it. I know why - see I want to honor the memory of our sweet China girl now home in Heaven and writing over top of it somehow seems like she is fading away. We are still missing her. <br />
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I think she'd want us to move forward though - not forgetting, but loving her in remberance. <br />
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So I'll begin, with her on my mind, I'll share this story and pray that she is smiling down on us as we think of her today.<br />
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If you're familiar with how we decided to <a href="http://holcombefamjourney.blogspot.com/2013/03/journey-to-you-here-we-go.html" target="_blank">adopt from China</a>, then you may know that we took time to pray and research A LOT before diving into what many refer to as a paper chase (which ends up being a stack of papers weighing close to 10 lbs when you're done - <i>really</i>). I don't think it's a coincidence that our journey began in April of 2012, when I first felt God asking us to be open to adoption. Both little girls we've come to love during this journey were born just the month before. He knew they needed a family with a Mom and Dad. Two little girls...forever they will be part of each other's story. I love that. They were born in the same month, days apart, yet miles apart in China. Both suffered the same pain of leaving their birth families and were left to be cared for by someone else who wasn't their mom. That is painful to write. Not as painful as it was for them though. What is beautiful, what they both were given, what she gave them, was life. Their birth mothers chose life for each little girl. That is so beautiful! So thankful that each women loved these girls so much to choose this for them. They chose <i>love</i>.<br />
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While lives were unfolding in China, we were praying - about adoption, about finding the child that was meant for our family, about faith and trust, and following Gods will for us. As I researched China adoption, I found out about <a href="http://www.newdaycreations.com/foster/" target="_blank">New Day Foster Home</a>. They had children who needed <a href="http://www.newdaycreations.com/foster/help/sponsorship.htm" target="_blank">sponsoring </a>and while it felt like we were waiting for the right time to move forward with adopting, I asked Jeff one night if we could sponsor a child at New Day. I wanted to be doing something while we waited. He said yes (maybe a little bit of him hoping my desire to adopt would end there<i>, ahem</i>). In all seriousness, he just needed a little more time to really hear what God was saying to us. I had decided to be still and let God from that point on regarding when we would adopt.<br />
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The next morning, in September of 2012, a beautiful 6 month old baby with captivating brown eyes arrived at New Day and I jumped at the chance to be her sponsor. (Part 2 - tomorrow)<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-74721216947111281492014-02-16T23:51:00.000-06:002014-02-18T13:42:18.182-06:00Hope and StayIt's been awhile - this space has been quiet - it needed time to rest. After Emme's passing, there wasn't much to add. But today, I want to try and add <i>hope </i>to this little blog and tell how much hope we have in our adoption journey. This blog was started to chronicle the adoption journey of our family and to remember all the trials, joys and heartache that went along with that. I needed to take a little time before moving forward here because I needed to just feel all that we were feeling. Losing Emme was so very sad. Tragic even. The circumstances that surrounded her passing, leaving us ready to bring a child home, then leaving us empty, was very hard. There were lots of questions. Many we still don't have answers to and may never have answers to. Some things we will never understand. But we know that we fought for her - yes, we fought for Emme. She will forever be a part of our hearts and family. Her little picture rests next to her sister's and brother's pictures on my shelf and I see the very first image we had of her as I walk by. It's the only one where she is sort of smiling. <br />
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I'm not sure how people without faith get through difficult times. Without our faith, this would be so much harder. Yet, we aren't walking this path alone! God's been with us this whole time and is holding us up through our trials. He is our hope and stay. He is writing this story, it's His story after all. All the prayers of others has given us so much comfort. <br />
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I bought this rose a day after Emme passed, and when it started to open, I had to capture it - I wanted to hold onto it's beauty in remembrance of her sweet spirit. I thought she would touch many hearts when she came home, but in talking with others after they heard our news, it blew us away how many hearts she had touched and none of us ever met her. Meeting her in Heaven one day, is going to bring me great joy. The day I finally get to hold her. We plan to plant a rose bush as soon as the weather warms up this Spring in her memory.<br />
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Our adoption journey isn't over, we still plan to adopt. We just have a little extra time now. God has been working out an amazing story, one we couldn't see before now. Now we see it and it's awe-some. There's another little girl waiting for us now and she's very special to us. She deserves her own post - which I'll do a little later. Hope, there's so much hope. There's a verse that has been helping us get through that I'd like to share here.<br />
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In Romans 8:28, it says <i>"and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." </i>He loves us, sees us, and wants good for us. So much hope in that.<br />
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And because there was a special Valentine's retreat (for parents only) this year which involved a concert featuring Stephen Curtis Chapman, I'm sharing this video. A special song - because we know we <i>will</i> see you one day. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2MtgwVE-aZY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125805587134054198.post-79442088952713873462013-12-31T01:01:00.001-06:002013-12-31T01:01:50.558-06:00For Emme<p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">(Written by Emme's biggest, big sister- Melissa)</span></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Just typing that precious, beautiful name brings me straight to tears. Two days ago we found out that our sweet Emelia Rose Ai Ni (Emme) went home. Really home. Not to our family’s home where we imagined we would get to see her grow up and know what it’s like to have a mom and a dad and six siblings who love her more than words can say. She skipped right over our home and went straight to be with Jesus. She went straight to her eternal heavenly home, where her broken little body is now perfect in every way. She now knows just how loved she is… By us, and most of all by Jesus.</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">When we were first hit with the news that Emme had gone to be with Jesus, I was completely heartbroken, overcome with grief, and to be honest, I was angry. I didn’t want to be angry, but I was. The entire night questions were racing through my mind…<span style="font-style: italic;">Why </span>would God do something like this? <span style="font-style: italic;">What if </span> Emme had never had surgery in China… would things be different, and would she still be here? <span style="font-style: italic;">Why </span>wouldn’t God let Emme come home to us? <span style="font-style: italic;">What if </span>the orphanage had let us come to get Emme sooner? <span style="font-style: italic;">Why </span>would God put this little girl in our lives, If He planned to take her away from us like this before we were even able to go to China and get her?? Truth is that we could ask all the “<span style="font-style: italic;">whys” </span>and “<span style="font-style: italic;">what ifs” </span> that we want to- they don’t change what happened. . . And as I’ve had the last couple days to reflect and really process this situation, I’m finally beginning to see what God did through Emme’s life, And why He did what He did.</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Through Emme, God showed us what it means to love dangerously. Loving Emme was not safe. At all. Her heart was very sick, and we knew from the very moment that we were matched with her, that we could lose her at anytime. But we chose to love her with all of our hearts anyway. Because she deserved to be loved that much.</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">God also showed us how to really obey and trust Him throughout Emme’s adoption. As soon as we saw the picture of an adorable little girl sitting on a plastic green seahorse, with bumble bees on her tiny toes looking back at us from the computer screen, we knew deep in our hearts that she was the one God wanted us to make a part of our family. And even though the severity of Emme’s very complex heart condition made us fearful, we trusted God with all our hearts (Proverbs 3:5-6), and kept in mind His promise- that He will never give us more than we can handle. So we obeyed what God told us to do, and I believe that in many ways The Lord confirmed to us that we were on the right path all throughout this journey. Even though Emme is in Heaven now, and we never got to hold her in our arms, I will never question our decision to work and fight towards being Emme’s family. I know with every part of me that God put Emme in our lives for a reason… wanting her and loving her was not a mistake. We obeyed and trusted God, and our reward was being able to love Emme during her short little life here on earth. Loving Emme was a beautiful gift… and after all “there is no greater gift than Love.”</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I could go on and on about my youngest little sister… She had the most beautiful, big brown eyes I have ever seen before in my life. The quote “The eyes are the window to the soul” is very true. Emme’s eyes were the window to her soul. Through those big brown eyes I could tell she was sad, lonely, scared, longing to be loved, and strong. Although I never got to meet her, I know she was a very strong little girl. She had to be. She experienced so much sadness and pain in her little life then any child should ever have to face. Our sweet girl had a smile that melted our hearts. She was so precious, and so loved.</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Although my heart hurts so much over the loss of our Emme, I’m finding comfort in knowing that she’s not in pain anymore. She’s not lying in a cold metal crib for hours upon hours, or in a hospital hooked up to machines. She’s not suffering anymore... She’s perfect now! And her broken little body has been made new. She knows how much we love her. Emme is with Jesus for eternity, and there is so much peace in knowing that one day we will get to be there too… With her, and with our Savior.</span></p><p style="height: 11pt; direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="direction: ltr; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Sweet Emme Rose, We love you so very much! We will hold you in our hearts <span style="font-style: italic;">forever. </span> </span></p>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17849592763473292917noreply@blogger.com1