Then a typically bus, which is essentially 2 American buses in one joined by the accordion looking "joint" so they can turn. Crazy.
Pic outside of the civil affairs office today. Our first self-portrait!
What a "typical" apartment looks like!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Pictures
Then a typically bus, which is essentially 2 American buses in one joined by the accordion looking "joint" so they can turn. Crazy.
Pic outside of the civil affairs office today. Our first self-portrait!
What a "typical" apartment looks like!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
More on Rachel
She is very brave. We stopped at a shop so that we could get our family picture taken for the documents and she had no problem talking to the other customers in the store. They commented to the guide that she is very brave and very confident to talk to them. She exudes confidence, but not in a haughty way. It was very clear that she has a lot of friends at the orphanage. Unfortunately, the orphanage director would not let her introduce me to her friends. He said they would be sad and start crying that they do not have a family. I can see his point, but I disagree with his approach. When we left the orphanage today, she will not be back. She had pictures of a friend who came back to visit after being home with her family. She said the friend could not come to the orphanage, but that they met a restaurant to see her. It made me sad. I understand where he is coming from, and it was clear that he cares for the kids, but I think he inadvertently punishes those who have a family. She was sad she couldn't see them. She is so sweet. She is very caring, very helpful. Honestly, I think it is her personality. I could be entirely wrong, but she seems very genuine.
We had a good long "talk" via google translater (thank you Patty for that tip!). But it takes so long for her to get it to say what she wants. It is certainly a tool we will use often, I'm sure.
The first thing she said to me was "where is mei mei?" (where is my little sister?) She was very disappointed she wasn't here. In fact, she's asked several times if we could call them so she could see Megan and DH (or father as she calls him). She is anxiously awaiting the opportunity chat with them. I am, too. Maybe we're still in honeymoon period (and that would not surprise me), but I am head over heels for her. Truly.
We had a good long "talk" via google translater (thank you Patty for that tip!). But it takes so long for her to get it to say what she wants. It is certainly a tool we will use often, I'm sure.
The first thing she said to me was "where is mei mei?" (where is my little sister?) She was very disappointed she wasn't here. In fact, she's asked several times if we could call them so she could see Megan and DH (or father as she calls him). She is anxiously awaiting the opportunity chat with them. I am, too. Maybe we're still in honeymoon period (and that would not surprise me), but I am head over heels for her. Truly.
Meeting Rachel--Sunday AM
I met the guide, George, at about 7:50am in the lobby. The reason we had to meet so early was because the other group that he was guiding with sight seeing were flying out this morning early. So, he rode with that group in the bus to the airport, while I followed with another drive in a car. We had to wait about 20-30 minutes at the airport while he got them checked in then we went to the orphanage. The orphanage was close to the airport, but on the other side of the airport from the hotel (think hotel to the north and the orphanage to the south...although I don't know my directions here, so it may east/west, I don't know). Its in a smaller (feeling), quieter part of Beijing. I was a bit surprised when we drove up to it. It didn't look like the pictures I have seen of it. I tried to snap a few of the buildings, but we didn't go very far into it. Rachel was walking up the stairs to the building we were getting her at when we drove up. So, we met on the steps. She led us up the stairs to th room we were meeting in. The orphanage director came out of his office to meet with us. It was very surreal.
Rachel is a very sweet girl. She is very caring. She wants to use the phone right now, so I will post more later.
Rachel is a very sweet girl. She is very caring. She wants to use the phone right now, so I will post more later.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Easter Sunday early AM
Its far too early to be awake this morning, but I did not sleep well. I woke up several times, had strange dreams, and just could not go back to sleep at 4:20am. I guess I'm too emotional about today. I'm excited, nervous, anxious, and overwhelmed all together. My guide did call late yesterday afternoon and he's meeting me at 7:50am (6:50PM home time). I went to bed later last night than I planned for a number of reasons. First, I was praying for Rachel. I wondered how she felt about knowing (I hope she knows!) that it would be her last night in life as she's known it. I hope & pray that she's had a chance to say goodbye to her friends she's leaving behind. I prayed that she would be ready for her new life and she would feel confident and comfortable knowing that we are NOT asking her to completely forget her past life. Her orphanage life. I think the fact that I am bringing a note from one of her friends who is already home will help. I absolutely will let her call her friends at the orphanage as well as those who have already gone to their forever families. They are like her sisters and asking to "give them up" would be cruel. They are the only family she has known. I wondered what she is like. What is she feeling? Is she the "roll with the punches" kind of girl? Does she handle change easily? Second, I prayed that I would know how to respond to her and that I would remember the Chinese phrases I have learned. Ok, so maybe I've not learned them so well that I can recall them without referring to notes, but I have the "cheat book" as well as some notes of phrases I will probably need to use often. How is she going to handle going shopping? Will she want everything? Will she throw tempter tantrums when she can't have something/everything? I don't know. I'm trust God to provide me the necessary words/skills necessary to parent her the way she needs.
I don't know what time I will actually get Rachel as the guide just said that the orphanage was a little ways away. I don't know what that means, but I do know that Beijing traffic is very unpredictable. If I was guessing, I would say its probably more than hour from the hotel, but I don't know for sure. I'm also guessing that he told me 7:50am to ensure I was a prompt person since he does not know me and we could leave by 8am. Again, that's a guess. He told me on Friday night that he had 3 other families here from another agency who are sightseeing before flying into their province. So, I believe he was tied up with them yesterday and I'm guessing that he'll need to take them to the airport this afternoon. He did say that we could stop at a store to shop for the clothes essentials and I'm guessing we'll grab some lunch, but I don't know that for sure either.
Anyways, I will post some pictures as soon as I get the chance.
I don't know what time I will actually get Rachel as the guide just said that the orphanage was a little ways away. I don't know what that means, but I do know that Beijing traffic is very unpredictable. If I was guessing, I would say its probably more than hour from the hotel, but I don't know for sure. I'm also guessing that he told me 7:50am to ensure I was a prompt person since he does not know me and we could leave by 8am. Again, that's a guess. He told me on Friday night that he had 3 other families here from another agency who are sightseeing before flying into their province. So, I believe he was tied up with them yesterday and I'm guessing that he'll need to take them to the airport this afternoon. He did say that we could stop at a store to shop for the clothes essentials and I'm guessing we'll grab some lunch, but I don't know that for sure either.
Anyways, I will post some pictures as soon as I get the chance.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Hotel room--Sat AM
Hotel Pics--Sat AM
I've arrived!!!
It is Saturday morning for me. I am 13 hours ahead of home.
Despite being delayed from Seoul into Beijing, I arrived safe and soundly. The only "loss" was one fingernail! I don't think that's too bad! I didn't feel great the entire trip as I had a headache for much of it, but not bad. Certainly better than I did last time when we landed into Beijing (I lost my "breakfast" more than once!). Since I didn't get into Beijing until almost 9pm, I got to see Beijing "under the lights". It was very beautiful. I got to the hotel at almost 10pm. It was a very long day. I didn't sleep much on the plane (about 2 or so hours in total). I have to admit, I will never fly another airlines when we come to China again! Korean Air was the best airline experience ever. The food was amazingly wonderful. I had a beef dish of some sort. Although I am not much of a beef person, I thought it tasted very good. The chicken dish wasn't as good, but it was still better than anything we had on un!ted last time. Oh, and the dessert they give you is absolutely delish: cheesecake with strawberry swirls and I've completely forgotten the name of the other one, but it was really good, too. They also fed me on the plane from Seoul to Beijing. That one, however, was 100% Asian (rice, something I couldn't recognize which was either fish or chix, a shrimp salad thing, and flavored rice). Needless to say, I skipped that one! I had eaten a cliff bar while in Seoul, my tummy was a little touchy, so I didn't want to chance it besides I wasn't really hungry. On both flights, I was very warm and they didn't have an air vent to adjust the temp which contributed to my not feeling at my best besides being tired. The couple that sat next to me on the flight from DFW were very sweet and I think the wife who was Korean loved that I gave her my sushi salad (I have been praying about/for those that I sit next to on my flights for some time). The only thing I did not like was having a layover after that long international flight. It was very hard to stay awake in Seoul b/c I was so tired. I think at this point, I was at almost 24 hrs of being awake. I was exhausted.
While I didn't sleep, I did get the chance to watch several new release movies--something I never get to do otherwise. (I already know which ones I want to watch on the way home, too!) That's another reason I didn't really sleep. But, between being warm and having a hard time getting comfortable, sleep just wouldn't come. There were several babies on the flight who were really having a hard time...cried and cried and cried. Clearly they were so tired, but I think they were hot and just couldn't get comfortable. Thanks to DH's new noise blocking ear pieces for the ipod, I didn't hear much of the crying as they also worked in the airplane as well. Needless to say, I prayed over those little babies quite a bit so the Lord would let them relax, be comfortable and drift off to sleep. I felt so badly for them. I reflected back to our return flight with Megan and I honestly couldn't remember, but I didn't recall her crying much on those flights, but then she loved being held close, so she had no problems. At least, I don't remember there being any, but maybe I have forgotten.
I did call DH & Megan as soon as I walked into the hotel room. While the bell boy was bringing my bags in, I was getting the laptop out and turned on to call them. I even forgot to get the plug in I was in such a hurry to call. When I was riding to the hotel, I was looking around at all the businesses/buildings, etc. and I couldn't help but think, I am here...alone. I can't believe I am doing this alone. I want more than anything to have DH & Megan here with me. The stress level of having Megan with though would be enormous. I know that. But it doesn't change how badly I want them here to experience this with me. It makes me tear up every time I think about it.
So some things I noticed right away. You know you are in Asia when...you hear people clearing their throats in a nasty way (do you know what I mean? Like they are hawking a loogie? or coughing up a lung?) Yeah, you know what I mean! I about burst out laughing...I had just gotten off the flight in Seoul and it was one of the first things I heard. Yep, I had completely forgotten about that! :-) I almost didn't bring my plug in adapter as we didn't need it the first time (although we did use to as a surge protector on the computer last time), but good thing I did...they didn't have one at the hotel and they have the crazy plug ins! I was so glad I had brought it. I would be in BIG trouble had I not done that!!! Then this morning I tried to find the hairdryer in the hotel room. I looked everywhere: the closet, the drawers of the nightstand & tv stand, the bathroom, the desk. I had to call guest services this morning b/c I could not find it! Where was it you ask? Well, of course, its in the drawer in the desk in the corner next to the window. Hmm, why didn't I think of that? Oh, and its installed IN the drawer (and very primitive, but it works!). So I dry my hair by the desk. Makes perfect sense to me that its in the furthest corner from the bathroom.
I'm going to have to post pictures in another post. I am having to post via email right now. I can see the blog using a vpn, but I can't actually log in...I'm going to see if I can figure that out today or tomorrow. I am getting Rachel tomorrow morning. The guide last night told me that I am getting her at 8:30am, but he may have meant that we are leaving the hotel at 8:30. He's going to call tonight for details. We will need to go to a store and get the clothing essentials for her as I had NO idea what size to buy, so I didn't bring any. Tomorrow is the day! I can't believe it!!! I will post Pics of getting her as soon as we get to the hotel. I promise!
Despite being delayed from Seoul into Beijing, I arrived safe and soundly. The only "loss" was one fingernail! I don't think that's too bad! I didn't feel great the entire trip as I had a headache for much of it, but not bad. Certainly better than I did last time when we landed into Beijing (I lost my "breakfast" more than once!). Since I didn't get into Beijing until almost 9pm, I got to see Beijing "under the lights". It was very beautiful. I got to the hotel at almost 10pm. It was a very long day. I didn't sleep much on the plane (about 2 or so hours in total). I have to admit, I will never fly another airlines when we come to China again! Korean Air was the best airline experience ever. The food was amazingly wonderful. I had a beef dish of some sort. Although I am not much of a beef person, I thought it tasted very good. The chicken dish wasn't as good, but it was still better than anything we had on un!ted last time. Oh, and the dessert they give you is absolutely delish: cheesecake with strawberry swirls and I've completely forgotten the name of the other one, but it was really good, too. They also fed me on the plane from Seoul to Beijing. That one, however, was 100% Asian (rice, something I couldn't recognize which was either fish or chix, a shrimp salad thing, and flavored rice). Needless to say, I skipped that one! I had eaten a cliff bar while in Seoul, my tummy was a little touchy, so I didn't want to chance it besides I wasn't really hungry. On both flights, I was very warm and they didn't have an air vent to adjust the temp which contributed to my not feeling at my best besides being tired. The couple that sat next to me on the flight from DFW were very sweet and I think the wife who was Korean loved that I gave her my sushi salad (I have been praying about/for those that I sit next to on my flights for some time). The only thing I did not like was having a layover after that long international flight. It was very hard to stay awake in Seoul b/c I was so tired. I think at this point, I was at almost 24 hrs of being awake. I was exhausted.
While I didn't sleep, I did get the chance to watch several new release movies--something I never get to do otherwise. (I already know which ones I want to watch on the way home, too!) That's another reason I didn't really sleep. But, between being warm and having a hard time getting comfortable, sleep just wouldn't come. There were several babies on the flight who were really having a hard time...cried and cried and cried. Clearly they were so tired, but I think they were hot and just couldn't get comfortable. Thanks to DH's new noise blocking ear pieces for the ipod, I didn't hear much of the crying as they also worked in the airplane as well. Needless to say, I prayed over those little babies quite a bit so the Lord would let them relax, be comfortable and drift off to sleep. I felt so badly for them. I reflected back to our return flight with Megan and I honestly couldn't remember, but I didn't recall her crying much on those flights, but then she loved being held close, so she had no problems. At least, I don't remember there being any, but maybe I have forgotten.
I did call DH & Megan as soon as I walked into the hotel room. While the bell boy was bringing my bags in, I was getting the laptop out and turned on to call them. I even forgot to get the plug in I was in such a hurry to call. When I was riding to the hotel, I was looking around at all the businesses/buildings, etc. and I couldn't help but think, I am here...alone. I can't believe I am doing this alone. I want more than anything to have DH & Megan here with me. The stress level of having Megan with though would be enormous. I know that. But it doesn't change how badly I want them here to experience this with me. It makes me tear up every time I think about it.
So some things I noticed right away. You know you are in Asia when...you hear people clearing their throats in a nasty way (do you know what I mean? Like they are hawking a loogie? or coughing up a lung?) Yeah, you know what I mean! I about burst out laughing...I had just gotten off the flight in Seoul and it was one of the first things I heard. Yep, I had completely forgotten about that! :-) I almost didn't bring my plug in adapter as we didn't need it the first time (although we did use to as a surge protector on the computer last time), but good thing I did...they didn't have one at the hotel and they have the crazy plug ins! I was so glad I had brought it. I would be in BIG trouble had I not done that!!! Then this morning I tried to find the hairdryer in the hotel room. I looked everywhere: the closet, the drawers of the nightstand & tv stand, the bathroom, the desk. I had to call guest services this morning b/c I could not find it! Where was it you ask? Well, of course, its in the drawer in the desk in the corner next to the window. Hmm, why didn't I think of that? Oh, and its installed IN the drawer (and very primitive, but it works!). So I dry my hair by the desk. Makes perfect sense to me that its in the furthest corner from the bathroom.
I'm going to have to post pictures in another post. I am having to post via email right now. I can see the blog using a vpn, but I can't actually log in...I'm going to see if I can figure that out today or tomorrow. I am getting Rachel tomorrow morning. The guide last night told me that I am getting her at 8:30am, but he may have meant that we are leaving the hotel at 8:30. He's going to call tonight for details. We will need to go to a store and get the clothing essentials for her as I had NO idea what size to buy, so I didn't bring any. Tomorrow is the day! I can't believe it!!! I will post Pics of getting her as soon as we get to the hotel. I promise!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Leaving on an airplane
I am leaving in less than 2 days! I leave on Thursday about noon. I'm pretty much completely packed. I've been blessed to take a letter to Rachel from a friend who already is with her forever family. She also sent a letter to another friend who is probably still at the orphanage. I also get to deliver a cute tote, goodies and letters to Hope who's family will be bringing her home this summer. A lady contacted me to take a homemade quilt and pillowcases to the kids left behind as well, but I have not received them, so I'm not sure I will get to do that. We'll see. I have room in my suitcases, so if it doesn't come its no big deal.
In God's great goodness, I am getting Rachel on Easter Sunday. Its sort of overwhelming that Easter Sunday 7 years ago, we welcomed our precious Ian into our family. I'm quite certain I will be quite emotional--not just because we're finally getting Rachel, but because its overwhelming to realize how much Easter already means for our family. The Lord's resurrection, Ian's birth, and Rachel joining our family. Amazing. Truly amazing.
Surprisingly I do not feel anxious or stressed about leaving on Thursday. Maybe because I'm packed? I don't know. I do think though that if we were all going, I would be stressed. I'm very grateful I am not stressed, but I do get emotional thinking about being away from Megan (and Dad, of course!) for two weeks. That is not going to be easy. We will skype every day, but not to be able to hold her and snuggle with her will be so difficult for me.
Anyways...here's my schedule:
4/21 Leave DFW
4/22 Arrive in Beijing about 8pm
4/23 Rest (catch up on my class & get everything organized)
4/24 Get Rachel and I'm assuming we'll have to go shopping for clothes for her
4/25 Finalize the adoption
4/26 More paperwork (I don't know what this is...)
4/27 Sight-seeing
4/28 Sight-seeing
4/29 Leave Beijing and arrive in Guangzhou
4/30 Have Rachel's medical "examination" (which examines nothing)
5/1 Sight-seeing in Guangzhou
5/2 Follow up medical check, document preparation
5/3 Consulate "interview" & oath ceremony
5/4 Pick up visa
5/5 Head home!!!
We are flying through Seoul Korea this trip (haven't been there before!) and returning through LAX. I'm really not excited about adding an extra stop in LAX, but it will be fine. We'll get home about 11pm. That will be a killer...but at least we'll be able to head to bed as soon as we get home. I'm not sure how Rachel will feel about that since it will be a strange place, but I know I'll be glad to see Keith at the airport and hug Megan in the morning!
There are a few things not officially on the itinerary that we will do as well. There's a lady who lives in Beijing who's daughter is the same age as Rachel and also adopted from the same orphanage that we will probably try to visit. I'm sure I'll be looking forward to some adult interaction and Rachel will probably want to visit with someone her own age. We'll see if it works out. Also when we get to Guangzhou, we are having Ann take us shopping again. She helped us find awesome deals in Guangzhou and this time my list is longer and more specific. I'm excited to see her again, too.
We are staying at completely different hotels this trip. I am looking forward to the Beijing hotel, but the Guangzhou hotel does not excite me in the least. But, we are traveling during trade fair, which means that hotels are asking higher rates and many are full. So, we're stuck with the White Swan. There will probably be a lot of adoptive families there, but I just am not crazy about the hotel itself, but it'll be fine. While I will be alone on the Beijing part of the journey, we will be joining 3 other families from our agency in Guangzhou. So, it will be fun to meet some new people on that part of the journey.
Well, I think this is long enough! I'll post again once I get to Beijing! "See" you on the other side of the world!!!
In God's great goodness, I am getting Rachel on Easter Sunday. Its sort of overwhelming that Easter Sunday 7 years ago, we welcomed our precious Ian into our family. I'm quite certain I will be quite emotional--not just because we're finally getting Rachel, but because its overwhelming to realize how much Easter already means for our family. The Lord's resurrection, Ian's birth, and Rachel joining our family. Amazing. Truly amazing.
Surprisingly I do not feel anxious or stressed about leaving on Thursday. Maybe because I'm packed? I don't know. I do think though that if we were all going, I would be stressed. I'm very grateful I am not stressed, but I do get emotional thinking about being away from Megan (and Dad, of course!) for two weeks. That is not going to be easy. We will skype every day, but not to be able to hold her and snuggle with her will be so difficult for me.
Anyways...here's my schedule:
4/21 Leave DFW
4/22 Arrive in Beijing about 8pm
4/23 Rest (catch up on my class & get everything organized)
4/24 Get Rachel and I'm assuming we'll have to go shopping for clothes for her
4/25 Finalize the adoption
4/26 More paperwork (I don't know what this is...)
4/27 Sight-seeing
4/28 Sight-seeing
4/29 Leave Beijing and arrive in Guangzhou
4/30 Have Rachel's medical "examination" (which examines nothing)
5/1 Sight-seeing in Guangzhou
5/2 Follow up medical check, document preparation
5/3 Consulate "interview" & oath ceremony
5/4 Pick up visa
5/5 Head home!!!
We are flying through Seoul Korea this trip (haven't been there before!) and returning through LAX. I'm really not excited about adding an extra stop in LAX, but it will be fine. We'll get home about 11pm. That will be a killer...but at least we'll be able to head to bed as soon as we get home. I'm not sure how Rachel will feel about that since it will be a strange place, but I know I'll be glad to see Keith at the airport and hug Megan in the morning!
There are a few things not officially on the itinerary that we will do as well. There's a lady who lives in Beijing who's daughter is the same age as Rachel and also adopted from the same orphanage that we will probably try to visit. I'm sure I'll be looking forward to some adult interaction and Rachel will probably want to visit with someone her own age. We'll see if it works out. Also when we get to Guangzhou, we are having Ann take us shopping again. She helped us find awesome deals in Guangzhou and this time my list is longer and more specific. I'm excited to see her again, too.
We are staying at completely different hotels this trip. I am looking forward to the Beijing hotel, but the Guangzhou hotel does not excite me in the least. But, we are traveling during trade fair, which means that hotels are asking higher rates and many are full. So, we're stuck with the White Swan. There will probably be a lot of adoptive families there, but I just am not crazy about the hotel itself, but it'll be fine. While I will be alone on the Beijing part of the journey, we will be joining 3 other families from our agency in Guangzhou. So, it will be fun to meet some new people on that part of the journey.
Well, I think this is long enough! I'll post again once I get to Beijing! "See" you on the other side of the world!!!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Future Artist?
Megan drew this picture one day...then told me it was the "thing-a-ma-jigger" from The C@t in the H@t Knows a lot about that (her all time favorite show right now)...
If you don't know what its supposed to look like, you can see the "real thing" here. If I could the darn thing to resize to smaller, I would paste it here and I don't have the time to figure it out! I think its pretty darn close myself!!!! Especially for a 3 year old!
If you don't know what its supposed to look like, you can see the "real thing" here. If I could the darn thing to resize to smaller, I would paste it here and I don't have the time to figure it out! I think its pretty darn close myself!!!! Especially for a 3 year old!
Quick catch up
Since I leave for China in less than a week...I thought I'd put a few pics up that I've been meaning to for some time...here's just a taste and I hope to get more up this weekend.
Megan had a "petting zoo" at school a few weeks ago. She really found the animals fascinating. I asked her to smile...and this is the face I get.
She loves to do what Daddy does. Daddy lays on the floor like this all the time, and so does Megan. What a cutie!
The past few weeks, she's always asking for her "just glasses". She gets a pair of her sunglasses then says "mom, these are my just glasses. okay?" I let her watch one of her favorite movies while I get ready in the morning, so she's been getting her "just glasses", then crawling in my bed, then taking them off and putting them by my clock (like I do). So, T@rget had kids sunglasses in the dollar bin...and I let her pick a pair (and I got a few extra...for $1 how can you pass that up???) and we popped out the lenses. She's IN HEAVEN!
Megan had a "petting zoo" at school a few weeks ago. She really found the animals fascinating. I asked her to smile...and this is the face I get. 
She loves to do what Daddy does. Daddy lays on the floor like this all the time, and so does Megan. What a cutie!
The past few weeks, she's always asking for her "just glasses". She gets a pair of her sunglasses then says "mom, these are my just glasses. okay?" I let her watch one of her favorite movies while I get ready in the morning, so she's been getting her "just glasses", then crawling in my bed, then taking them off and putting them by my clock (like I do). So, T@rget had kids sunglasses in the dollar bin...and I let her pick a pair (and I got a few extra...for $1 how can you pass that up???) and we popped out the lenses. She's IN HEAVEN!
She has really grown up in the past 2 weeks or so. I know we're a bit slow, but she has finally decided SHE wants to get dressed by herself. So, I set her clothes out, show her the back part and she does it alone. She also puts her pjs on....although tonight both the top & bottom were backwards. We're still learning. She wants a "glass plate" like us at meal times; she wants napkins like us; she's finally decided to drink her milk cold (yes, its taken THIS long!) at meal times. Oh, and she does NOT want us to hold her hand going into the stores. It started by wanting me to just hold her shoulder...and then it progressed to, "Don't hold me mom. I'll stay right by you." And she does! She also wants to push the cart or walk by the cart, not in the cart. Thank goodness several stores have those long carts where kids can stand right in front of you while you and (they think) they help push the cart. Those things are genius! Love them. Love stores that have them! The biggest problem when she's walking next to you in the store is that she does NOT pay attention to where she is walking. So she often is about ready to walk into someone or some thing. But its all part of the growing up. She'll be 4 in a month! Hard to believe. And she has grown again. She is ALL legs. Those legs are so darn LONG!
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Spring Frenzy!
Are you looking for a variety of gifts for people in your life? Well, Stacy over at My Cup Overfloweth is having a spring frenzy! There are several families (including us!) who are selling various products as fundraisers to bring their children home to their forever families!
Think Easter, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, birthdays, and` what about your child/ren's teacher to mark the end of a great year? I'm sure any teacher would love some of these marvelous gifts!
We, of course, have our tees which you can see HERE or in the sidebar. Those who have purchased them LOVE them! They are very, very comfy! The women's fitted shirts run 1-2 sizes small...so keep that in mind when ordering a fitted shirt.
Think Easter, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, birthdays, and` what about your child/ren's teacher to mark the end of a great year? I'm sure any teacher would love some of these marvelous gifts!
We, of course, have our tees which you can see HERE or in the sidebar. Those who have purchased them LOVE them! They are very, very comfy! The women's fitted shirts run 1-2 sizes small...so keep that in mind when ordering a fitted shirt.
Friday, April 08, 2011
I'm so far behind!!
There are so many things that I've taken pictures "for the blog" and so many things Megan is doing that I want to get on here. But quite literally, every week since July I've had something demanding my time. The dissertation took up June, July, August, September and most of October. The end of October was our first garage sale. Then the beginning of November we had a Scentsy fundraiser which lasted until mid-November, the BBQ Bash, then it was Thanksgiving...followed by graduation (and mom & Katie's visit)...followed by Christmas. Then I taught a class the week after Christmas. Then January...which was spent getting ready for a consignment sale, and spring semester starting. February held play dates for Megan and the consignment sale. March was again, teaching another one week class, faculty meetings for me, a lot of over-time for Dad and the March garage sale with a little travel preparation sprinkled in. Then Monday, April 4th, we received approval to travel! This past week has meant airfare decisions/purchases, shopping for clothes for Rachel and some packing. Of course, the semester is not over for me, yet. So, I've been grading papers, reading discussion board posts as well as keeping up the house--make that catching up on the housework from a whirlwind few weeks!
So, at this point, I'm leaving for China on April 21st and getting Rachel on Easter Sunday! What a sweet surprise. Ian was born was Easter Sunday and Rachel joins our family on Easter Sunday! It fills my heart with joy. I'll come home May 5th. I don't know any additional details, but Dad will home until May 23rd. I know we will enjoy having him home those weeks! And I plan on blogging while traveling...I'm hoping to find time! :-)
So, at this point, I'm leaving for China on April 21st and getting Rachel on Easter Sunday! What a sweet surprise. Ian was born was Easter Sunday and Rachel joins our family on Easter Sunday! It fills my heart with joy. I'll come home May 5th. I don't know any additional details, but Dad will home until May 23rd. I know we will enjoy having him home those weeks! And I plan on blogging while traveling...I'm hoping to find time! :-)
Saturday, March 26, 2011
The Monsterous Garage Sale!
I cannot even begin to express our gratefulness to all of those who donated items for this MASSIVE garage sale! Oh my gosh. We felt such love and support from so many people with this sale. In total about 13 families gave items to sell at the sale. What an amazing expression of love for both us and Rachel. We had 2 amazing women help with the sale as well. Dad took Friday off so he could manage Megan (or as he calls her: Chaos). He certainly had his hands full! Friday our former neighbor, Stacee, came and helped. Saturday our neighbor, Teresa, helped. We could not have done it without these fabulous ladies!
The pictures truly do not give it justice...but...just to give you an idea...
This is what it looked like when I opened the door from my house, into my garage! It looked like this for more than 2 weeks! Ugh.
This is the view looking into the garage from the outside.
Surprisingly this is actually somewhat organized...at least by my definition!
This is Friday morning before we opened. We stayed up until nearly 11pm getting everything "together". Everything (well, mostly everything) was set on tables or in their "garage sale ready" state. And no, you could NOT walk in it at all. You can't tell, but every square inch of the place had something on it! It was CRAZY!!!
Its probably more than most people START with at a garage sale! But, I'm pretty much done with the garage sale thing for a while, and I really, really, really want my garage back! Its been over run with garage sale things since at least JANUARY (and some parts since before our October garage sale)! I believe we will be donating these items to a local crisis pregnancy center and safe house for pregnant women and victims of sexual violence. They have a thrift store, and I believe all those who donated items would feel that was a great cause as well.
We all got sunburned (including my scalp) today (even with sunscreen), but then it was 87* and horribly humid. Well, I guess Megan did not get sunburned, she turned a beautiful shade of tan. She even has very pronounced flip-flop tan. I'm so jealous!
The pictures truly do not give it justice...but...just to give you an idea...
This is what it looked like when I opened the door from my house, into my garage! It looked like this for more than 2 weeks! Ugh.
This is the view looking into the garage from the outside. Surprisingly this is actually somewhat organized...at least by my definition!
This is Friday morning before we opened. We stayed up until nearly 11pm getting everything "together". Everything (well, mostly everything) was set on tables or in their "garage sale ready" state. And no, you could NOT walk in it at all. You can't tell, but every square inch of the place had something on it! It was CRAZY!!!Friday was nuts. And by nuts, I mean N-U-T-S! We weren't supposed to open until 8, but we had LOADS of people at 7:30. Not even everything was out yet (and I started moving it out at 5am!). We were supposed to close at 3pm, but there was a steady stream of people until nearly 5pm! And then one group showed up as we were putting things away for the next day...and yet they shopped (and bought and thankfully did NOT leave a mess).I wore my pedometer and walked nearly 22,000 steps. I was tuckered out, hot (it was almost 85*) and sunburned. But we were so blessed during the sale too. We had a sign that informed our shoppers that all proceeds were going to help us adopt from China. On Friday we had 3 separate people simply give us money to help us. And a few others that told us to "keep the change". It was moving EVERY time. But, the one that got me most was a very nice man (who Megan was BUGGING the heck out of..and he was so sweet to her) asked how much for a box of books. I said $10. He said, no...how about $20? I nearly started crying. Literally. It was so incredibly overwhelming. We sold nearly $1,000 which brought both of us nearly to tears.
Saturday was fairly slow. It was about 10 before people really started showing up, and while it was steady, it was more of a trickle than anything. I didn't figure we'd do as well as Friday (I mean, nearly half of our stuff was sold), but I did expect it to be a bit busier. About noon, we told any shoppers that everything was half price. We didn't sell a lot after noon, but some things did move (thank goodness!). At any rate, we still sold nearly $300, which is not too shabby. Although I think Dad thought it was a bit disappointing, especially when you compare it to the day before! :-)
So after clean up, we still had this left:
Saturday was fairly slow. It was about 10 before people really started showing up, and while it was steady, it was more of a trickle than anything. I didn't figure we'd do as well as Friday (I mean, nearly half of our stuff was sold), but I did expect it to be a bit busier. About noon, we told any shoppers that everything was half price. We didn't sell a lot after noon, but some things did move (thank goodness!). At any rate, we still sold nearly $300, which is not too shabby. Although I think Dad thought it was a bit disappointing, especially when you compare it to the day before! :-)
So after clean up, we still had this left:
Its probably more than most people START with at a garage sale!
We all got sunburned (including my scalp) today (even with sunscreen), but then it was 87* and horribly humid. Well, I guess Megan did not get sunburned, she turned a beautiful shade of tan. She even has very pronounced flip-flop tan. I'm so jealous!
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
New picture of Rachel!
China is known for having strange backgrounds for referral pictures...I guess this is her orphanages! So I see a future model??? :-)
Thursday, February 24, 2011
T-shirt Blowout Sale!!!
We are on the home stretch to bring Rachel home! We only have 2 more steps (about 2-3 weeks each) before we receive our official approval to travel! It will likely be mid- to late April!
Consequently, we're having a...
Consequently, we're having a...
T-SHIRT BLOWOUT SALE!!!
Adult shirts: $10
Women's Fitted shirts: $12
Kids shirts: $8
Or any 2 shirts $17
(I'll need to send you an invoice for sizes & colors)
You can click on the links on the sidebar to order your shirt(s)!!!
Thanks for your support!!!
Adult shirts: $10
Women's Fitted shirts: $12
Kids shirts: $8
Or any 2 shirts $17
(I'll need to send you an invoice for sizes & colors)
You can click on the links on the sidebar to order your shirt(s)!!!
Thanks for your support!!!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Months of the Year
Megan learned the months of the year at school. She has been singing it for months, but just recently decided it was okay to do it with us (and the camera) looking!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Being real
I'm going to be open and real for this post. Not that I'm not usually, but I am good at only writing/sharing/focusing on certain things. Typically, the good things. I don't often share the struggles/fears/concerns that cross my mind. Now, in general, I don't worry. And for the most part, I'm pretty good about putting my concerns at the feet of Jesus. After all, there is not much I can do about them until I turn them over to him. If he's going to resolve them, he has to have them. At any rate, I realized just moments ago that I needed to share this. All of this.
In the last few weeks, I've been experiencing a lot of anxiety. Anxiety surrounding Rachel. How is bringing a 13-yr old going to change our family? How is Megan going to respond? How is it going to change my marriage? How in the WORLD do you PARENT a teenager? And what about a teenager who's emotional age is probably more like 7 or 8? What is she going to be like? Is she going to click with us? Is she going to hate being in our family? How long will it take her to "be real"? And where is the remaining $8,000 going to come from? How am I going to travel to China by myself? What if I "need a break"? There will be only me. No walking away for a breather when I'm the only parent! Who will I talk to about my struggles or what to do? How will Megan handle me being gone for that long? How will Dad handle being full-time parent for that many days? My head spins with it all. Seriously. That's a lot of heavy stuff. I hadn't really shared any of it with anyone...I've just been letting swirl around in my head occasionally, afraid to say anything. I would be lying if I didn't say that I've even considered backing out of this...the demands on me feel like too much sometimes. But, I know this is God's plan, so I keep trudging forward. And trudging is EXACTLY what it feels like.
One day this week when I should have been doing something else more "productive" while Megan was napping, I was strolling around websites. This site is one I found more recently. In fact, I found it because the moderator contacted me to ask if we'd like to be profiled on the site. Seeing it as an opportunity to possibly sell more t-shirts and hairclips, I said YES! I haven't been on the site for a while, for many reasons. First, its not bookmarked on my laptop and most of my website strolling I do on the laptop while Megan is watching her few shows or she's playing with Dad. Second, I haven't been strolling websites much! It's just been so busy, I have not had the time to do it. At any rate, I read this article written by another adoptive mom. One who didn't plan on adopting at that time, but God had other plans. She spoke RIGHT TO ME. I swear. Was she reading my mind? Oh, no. It was a God thing. Hop over and read it, if you a minute or two. But if not, let me just say it opened my eyes to realize that adopting JiJie Rachel is not one bit about me. Not one bit about how I'm going to do it. Or if I can. Or where the money will come from. Its about the big things God is going to do. It's about the the position I get to play. Do I want to sit on the sidelines and watch? Or do I want to get in the game and play? Personally, I chose to play a position on the team and see what God's going to do.
I realize this is not going to be easy, but then there's little about my life that has been. It's about being willing to join the game. And I'm willing. I'm sure there will be days that the struggles will be significant and I will need to be reminded about the goodness that will come out of this. But I will play the game. I wouldn't miss it for the world! And I wouldn't miss giving Megan the opportunity to have a sister for whatever little (or big) inconveniences that lay ahead.
In the last few weeks, I've been experiencing a lot of anxiety. Anxiety surrounding Rachel. How is bringing a 13-yr old going to change our family? How is Megan going to respond? How is it going to change my marriage? How in the WORLD do you PARENT a teenager? And what about a teenager who's emotional age is probably more like 7 or 8? What is she going to be like? Is she going to click with us? Is she going to hate being in our family? How long will it take her to "be real"? And where is the remaining $8,000 going to come from? How am I going to travel to China by myself? What if I "need a break"? There will be only me. No walking away for a breather when I'm the only parent! Who will I talk to about my struggles or what to do? How will Megan handle me being gone for that long? How will Dad handle being full-time parent for that many days? My head spins with it all. Seriously. That's a lot of heavy stuff. I hadn't really shared any of it with anyone...I've just been letting swirl around in my head occasionally, afraid to say anything. I would be lying if I didn't say that I've even considered backing out of this...the demands on me feel like too much sometimes. But, I know this is God's plan, so I keep trudging forward. And trudging is EXACTLY what it feels like.
One day this week when I should have been doing something else more "productive" while Megan was napping, I was strolling around websites. This site is one I found more recently. In fact, I found it because the moderator contacted me to ask if we'd like to be profiled on the site. Seeing it as an opportunity to possibly sell more t-shirts and hairclips, I said YES! I haven't been on the site for a while, for many reasons. First, its not bookmarked on my laptop and most of my website strolling I do on the laptop while Megan is watching her few shows or she's playing with Dad. Second, I haven't been strolling websites much! It's just been so busy, I have not had the time to do it. At any rate, I read this article written by another adoptive mom. One who didn't plan on adopting at that time, but God had other plans. She spoke RIGHT TO ME. I swear. Was she reading my mind? Oh, no. It was a God thing. Hop over and read it, if you a minute or two. But if not, let me just say it opened my eyes to realize that adopting JiJie Rachel is not one bit about me. Not one bit about how I'm going to do it. Or if I can. Or where the money will come from. Its about the big things God is going to do. It's about the the position I get to play. Do I want to sit on the sidelines and watch? Or do I want to get in the game and play? Personally, I chose to play a position on the team and see what God's going to do.
I realize this is not going to be easy, but then there's little about my life that has been. It's about being willing to join the game. And I'm willing. I'm sure there will be days that the struggles will be significant and I will need to be reminded about the goodness that will come out of this. But I will play the game. I wouldn't miss it for the world! And I wouldn't miss giving Megan the opportunity to have a sister for whatever little (or big) inconveniences that lay ahead.
Sunday, January 09, 2011
SNOW!
It seems like the last several years we've gotten snow in February. And if memory serves me right, we got snow on Christmas Eve last year. Anyways...we got a surprise snow storm today!
Bundled up and can't WAIT to go out!
"It's snowing, mom!"
She's SO IN LOVE with the snow.
"Just working" on the snowman...which led to...
Oops...the snowman fell over from all the "work" Megan did. The snowman did not make it longer than 30 minutes...Dad didn't even get to see it!
In the house for hot chocolate (her first time!). After much trepidation, she tried it and low and behold..she liked it...just like I told her she would!
The evidence that we had fun in the snow...
Needless to say, the wet clothes are in the dryer so she can go back out. She didn't want to come in and has been begging for the past hour to go back out!
Bundled up and can't WAIT to go out!
"It's snowing, mom!"
She's SO IN LOVE with the snow.
"Just working" on the snowman...which led to...
Oops...the snowman fell over from all the "work" Megan did. The snowman did not make it longer than 30 minutes...Dad didn't even get to see it!
In the house for hot chocolate (her first time!). After much trepidation, she tried it and low and behold..she liked it...just like I told her she would!
The evidence that we had fun in the snow...Needless to say, the wet clothes are in the dryer so she can go back out. She didn't want to come in and has been begging for the past hour to go back out!
Thursday, January 06, 2011
January?!?! 2011???
Not only is it January already, but we are now SIX days into January? It just doesn't look to slow down anytime soon. I was recounting to my sister today all that is going on..and her head was spinning just from reading it. Yep, that's I feel living it!
Our documents went to China on Dec 17th (yay!). Interestingly enough, we send out documents for Megan on Dec 6th in 2005 and we were officially logged in on Dec 20th, 2005. I believe we should get the approval to go to China in late March/early April. That's just THREE MONTHS AWAY! holy smoly...there's a LOT to do besides raise the last about $8,000.
Well, I have very little time to write anything...but here are some pics for Dec. I can say that I taught a class the last week of December and I swear Megan grew up SO MUCH in that one week! So crazy.
Graduation
It's official!! PhD!
Megan's new "perch" that she calls her "cliff". I think cliff comes from Cliff H@nger, a character/story line on Between the Li0ns, one of her favorite shows.
One of her favorite Christmas gifts: a microphone
Our documents went to China on Dec 17th (yay!). Interestingly enough, we send out documents for Megan on Dec 6th in 2005 and we were officially logged in on Dec 20th, 2005. I believe we should get the approval to go to China in late March/early April. That's just THREE MONTHS AWAY! holy smoly...there's a LOT to do besides raise the last about $8,000.
Well, I have very little time to write anything...but here are some pics for Dec. I can say that I taught a class the last week of December and I swear Megan grew up SO MUCH in that one week! So crazy.
GraduationIt's official!! PhD!
Megan's new "perch" that she calls her "cliff". I think cliff comes from Cliff H@nger, a character/story line on Between the Li0ns, one of her favorite shows.
One of her favorite Christmas gifts: a microphone
Can you tell how much this girl loves shoes? This face says it all!
I wish I had more time to write. It seems like life is moving so quick and I want to document it all, but there is just so little time...and even less energy!
I wish I had more time to write. It seems like life is moving so quick and I want to document it all, but there is just so little time...and even less energy!
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Shutterfly Free 50 Cards
Debbie alerted me to the fact that Shutterfly is rewarding bloggers with 50 free photo cards. While I have never used Shutterfly, my sister-in-law made a beautiful photo book for my brother to take to Kuwait with him earlier this year. We each had pages to complete with our family photos for the book. It was very easy to do, and the results were beautiful! I've received cards from others who used Shutterfly and I'm excited to use them for this year's Christmas card!
Their Christmas cards are awesome! There are so many amazing options!!! I am having a hard time picking the best one, but I do have several favorites. Here are a few that I love:
LINK This one is so cute! And I know the perfect picture of Megan for this one, but we wanted to include picture of Rachel on there as well. And it wouldn't work this year, but it's SO CUTE!
LINK This one is another favorite, but our picture won't work on here...unfortunately!
LINK I also really love this card. I love the colors and the options for so many pictures.
Their Christmas cards are awesome! There are so many amazing options!!! I am having a hard time picking the best one, but I do have several favorites. Here are a few that I love:
LINK This one is so cute! And I know the perfect picture of Megan for this one, but we wanted to include picture of Rachel on there as well. And it wouldn't work this year, but it's SO CUTE!LINK This one is another favorite, but our picture won't work on here...unfortunately!LINK I also really love this card. I love the colors and the options for so many pictures.Some other products you can create are personalized thank you notes. They also have personalized calendar you can create to make a great gift for grandparents!!!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Oh man...
It seems like SO LONG ago that I posted something informative about Megan...yet, she seems to have grown up so much lately! A couple of things that come to mind...
Update on Rachel...we had our fingerprints taken as part of the immigration process the beginning of the month. We're hoping they will be back within the next few days. The rest of the documents are on their way back from getting all the appropriate approvals on them. They should be at the agency next week. Then we just wait for our fingerprint approval, get it the appropriate approvals then it will off to China! I am hoping and praying that it will be sent off by mid-Dec. It would be an amazing graduation gift for me if we could get it sent off that week! No matter how you look at it, it's interesting that we sent out dossier for Megan to China in December 2005. I'm hoping we'll travel in March/April (just like with Megan) again. But, it would be miraculous for that kind of timing. I've always felt like April is when we would travel...so I'm praying it works that way! That would mean all my kids joined our family in April (Ian was born on 4/11 and Megan's official adopted date is 4/1). How cool would THAT be???
- The C@t and the Hat (thanks to the PBS show) is extremely popular around our house. So much so that she is using a broken beaded necklace as a tail. She tucks in the top of her pants and walks around talking about her tail. It is so funny. Oh, and sings the song "here we go-go-go on an adventure". We're ALWAYS going on an adventure (to the store, outside, the park, etc.) And the car is always the thing-a-ma-jigger (the Cat's mode of transportation).
- She also loves Super Why (also PBS) and finds Sid the Science kid interesting as well. She loves to investigate new things. I'm not very good at science, so that show helps me to know what to talk to her about as well.
- She talks CONSTANTLY. And loves to say "watch this" or "watch me".
- She loves to just be silly. Whether it's hopping around like a frog, putting on my sunglasses or running around in a circle, she is hilarious!
- And when she's in a tired mood, she'll say "that's my choice today!"...can you tell we talk about choices at our house??? :-)
- She loves her mini trampoline. She had been jumping on the furniture, and we found one at a garage sale cheap...it's quite the hit!
- This should come as no surprise to those who are around Megan much, but she loves sticks. Shoot, she loves to take over anything that could be perceived as a stick. For instance, I was wrapping a book the other day and she wanted my wrapping paper roll b/c it was like a stick. Nothing is safe
- What does she do with the sticks? Well, she pretends she's Super Why and "zaps" in a new word. Or she's Princess Pea using it to spell words. All back to the same thing: words! They are her FAVORITE!
- She doesn't ask to spell words as often anymore...but she still loves words and letters.
- She loves school. We had tried putting her in a different school for this year, but she just didn't do well. So, after much prayer and some serious changes at the school, we decided to move her back to her "old school". She has the teacher she had the first semester she was in school and her class only has 4 students. The teacher is amazing at imagination play and is amazing with the kids. She is having tons of fun! She would go to school everyday if she could! She loves it THAT MUCH!
- Sleep has still been difficult. We had time where things were better, but the past couple of weeks she's been having bad dreams. She'll wake up and have a hard time going back to sleep. We've been in play therapy for 3 months now and we've seen some progress. She's bringing up being scared to go to sleep or being scared at night. We're on the right track, if she could just work through the scariness, we'd be good!
- She talks about giants CONSTANTLY! She does NOT like giants. I'm not even sure where this started (maybe a bad dream? I don't know), but she will often bring up how she does NOT like giants. We talk about how they are all pretend, except one. There was only 1 real giant: Goliath. And what happened to Goliath? David won, because God was on his side! (Her favorite bible story...or rather...one of them)
- Oh, and how could I forget...she LOVES OUR CHRISTMAS TREE! She talks about it the MOMENT she wakes up "We have a Christmas tree!" It may come from one of her favorite books, as it talks about a Christmas tree. I don't know...but she's obsessed with the Christmas tree!
- Books...she is such a book junkie. She has several that she has memorized. She really can read, but she hasn't figured out the whole the word I just spelled (and she likely saw in her head as she figured it out) is the same as reading it out of the book. I had gotten a few beginning reading books at a garage sale, but she's memorized them after having us read them, so having her read them is pointless. She already knows what they say! She typically refused to read them to us...she wanted us to read them to her. Oh well. She'll do it when she's ready. After all, she's only 3!
Update on Rachel...we had our fingerprints taken as part of the immigration process the beginning of the month. We're hoping they will be back within the next few days. The rest of the documents are on their way back from getting all the appropriate approvals on them. They should be at the agency next week. Then we just wait for our fingerprint approval, get it the appropriate approvals then it will off to China! I am hoping and praying that it will be sent off by mid-Dec. It would be an amazing graduation gift for me if we could get it sent off that week! No matter how you look at it, it's interesting that we sent out dossier for Megan to China in December 2005. I'm hoping we'll travel in March/April (just like with Megan) again. But, it would be miraculous for that kind of timing. I've always felt like April is when we would travel...so I'm praying it works that way! That would mean all my kids joined our family in April (Ian was born on 4/11 and Megan's official adopted date is 4/1). How cool would THAT be???
Thursday, November 18, 2010
T-Shirts
We designed these tees with all proceeds going to the Bring Rachel Home fund!
They come in light pink with brown writing or black with white writing.
Sizes (in BOTH colors) available:
Regular tee shirts $15
(they seem to run a bit big)
Small
Medium
Large
X Large
XX Large
Women's fitted tees: $17
(they seem to run a bit small)
Small
Medium
Large
X Large
Kids's tees: $10
Small (6/8)
Medium (10/12)
You can make your selection on the drop down menu on the right hand side of the page. PLEASE NOTE in paypal what color you want! Shipping is included in the price.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Photos
We're trying a new deep conditioner because her hair is SO DRY. And it requires her to wear a shower cap...this was our first try at it. She's so cute!!!
She's really enjoying her chalk board lately. Here she said she drew me a rainbow. So, we're both taking pictures of the rainbow!
A new trick lately...she found this slinky reminds her of Snuffy's trunk on Ses@me Street. So, she's got a trunk, only she calls it a snuffle-opogus (which is a dance she saw on the show).
Saturday, November 06, 2010
My beauty
Megan's school had a fall festival, but she REFUSED to wear the princess costume we got for her last year. So, we had to go with the back up plan. She went as a Chinese Princess wearing her traditional outfit...(the dress got ruined in the wash...but the pants outfit didn't).
Does she look amazing in red or is it just me?
Does she look amazing in red or is it just me?
I love this pic..
She is so precious...
This is her most recent favorite hair style. She ALWAYS asks for pony tails, and I always want to put a flower in her hair...so this is our compromise...and I think it's so adorable!
Thursday, November 04, 2010
BBQ Bash Fundraiser
I've decided to create a website 100% dedicated to the BBQ Bash fundraiser. You can find all the delightful details (time, date, location, tickets, etc.) as well!
Check it out!!! TX BBQ BASH
We've got LOTS of great things planned!! Please come join us!!! Tickets are SUPER cheap!!!
Check it out!!! TX BBQ BASH
We've got LOTS of great things planned!! Please come join us!!! Tickets are SUPER cheap!!!
Monday, November 01, 2010
Christmas Shopping
Are you wanting to do some Christmas shopping without heading to the crowded stores?
Or maybe you have some hard-to-shop for people on your list?
Or maybe you have some hard-to-shop for people on your list?
We have been blessed with an excellent opportunity to receive 25% of Scentsy product sales!
You can join the journey to bring Rachel home while shopping for some excellent products! If you are not familiar with Scentsy, it's a flameless wax warmer. The wax does NOT get very hot, but it does NOT take long to make your house smell absolutely delightful! Believe me, we've been enjoying the fragrance Pumpkin Roll for the past month or so. Each square of the bar lasts a long time (I think each Scentsy bar lasts about 30 hrs). If you are local to me, I have a sampler of all fragrances so you can try and decide which one is the one you want!
You can join the journey to bring Rachel home while shopping for some excellent products! If you are not familiar with Scentsy, it's a flameless wax warmer. The wax does NOT get very hot, but it does NOT take long to make your house smell absolutely delightful! Believe me, we've been enjoying the fragrance Pumpkin Roll for the past month or so. Each square of the bar lasts a long time (I think each Scentsy bar lasts about 30 hrs). If you are local to me, I have a sampler of all fragrances so you can try and decide which one is the one you want!
Jennifer has also offered to host a couple of giveaways as well!
1. First, the person who collects the highest dollar in sales will receive a plug-in warmer of their choice (if you want catalogs and order blanks to sell from, let me know)!
2. Then ANY PERSON who purchases $40 or more of product will be entered into a drawing for a plug-in warmer as well!
Which one do you want to be entered for?
2. Then ANY PERSON who purchases $40 or more of product will be entered into a drawing for a plug-in warmer as well!
Which one do you want to be entered for?
Click HERE for more details! I hope you chose to purchase these great products! If you want to place the order with me for personal local delivery rather than online with shipping costs, email me at iluvgoldens [at] hotmail [dot] com with your order and I can submit the order for you.
The sale closes on November 15th for everyone to get their products before the holidays!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Could she get ANY cuter???
Little Miss Hollywood!
Dissertation is completed! I am official a Ph.D.! YAY!
I'm busy working on this weekend's garage sale and next week's Scentsy fundraiser.
More info to come!!!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
BBQ Bash Fundraiser
If you live in the Dallas area and would like to come to a BBQ Bash hosted by our good friends the Doss family, please click on the "buy now" button on the right hand side of the page. The Doss' have arranged for live entertainment, great BBQ and fun activities for the whole family at an awesome outdoor venue! We feel privileged and honored that they have decided to help us on the Journey to bring Rachel home in this way!
The ticket prices are very reasonable...so PLEASE consider joining us!!!
What a GREAT deal for GREAT evening of food and fun! And you can help us bring Rachel home!!!
The ticket prices are very reasonable...so PLEASE consider joining us!!!
Nov 20th at 5pm
$12 per person
$25 for a family with kids under age 12
$12 per person
$25 for a family with kids under age 12
What a GREAT deal for GREAT evening of food and fun! And you can help us bring Rachel home!!!
Monday, October 18, 2010
I'm so far behind in postings!
Oh man...we've been so busy!!! But, the good news is that the dissertation defense (aka final presentation) is Oct 25th. Once that is done...and I incorporate the committee's changes and submit it to the graduation office by the 29th. I WILL BE FINISHED! Whew. That will feel good! But for now, a few pics from the last few weeks. More once I'm through next week. We took lots on our recent trip to visit family...
Megan & cousin Ashley dressing up
She asked to play with shaving cream one morning...and this is what she does with it. silly girl!
Her new passion: climbing trees.
Or rather, sitting in trees since she asks one of us to put her IN the tree!
Megan & cousin Ashley dressing up
She asked to play with shaving cream one morning...and this is what she does with it. silly girl!
Well, who doesn't end up with sand EVERYWHERE when they play it? I especially like it on the bridge of her sunglasses.
Her new passion: climbing trees.
Or rather, sitting in trees since she asks one of us to put her IN the tree!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Christmas Frenzy!
Stacy at My Cup Overfloweth just returned from China with their son, Solomon. She knows the struggles to raise funds when you are adopting and has created a Christmas Frenzy. She is providing an opportunity for families who are in the process of adopting and are fundraising to post their items in one place. It also provides families who are looking for Christmas gifts and want to help others an opportunity to purchase items. Head over there and see what she and others are selling. I think people have just begun adding their items, so check back frequently!
OH, and she's doing a giveaway for those who are purchasing! Don't forget to check that out, too! And maybe you can win a Christmas gift...or a special gift for you!
OH, and she's doing a giveaway for those who are purchasing! Don't forget to check that out, too! And maybe you can win a Christmas gift...or a special gift for you!
Drum roll, please...
The winner of the ipad is Kim T! Congrats, Kim!!! I will ship the ipad this week!!!
Thank you to EVERYONE who donated to help us bring Rachel home! We are so blessed by those who chose to donate to help us!
Thank you to EVERYONE who donated to help us bring Rachel home! We are so blessed by those who chose to donate to help us!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Ipad drawing Sunday
Just wanted everyone to know that we will draw the winner for the ipad tomorrow!!! Sunday morning I will post the winner.
You can still purchase your tickets! Click on "chip in" on the right hand side of the page.
Donate $10 for one chance to win
Donate $20 for THREE chances to win
Thank you to all of you who have joined our journey to bring Rachel home!!!
You can still purchase your tickets! Click on "chip in" on the right hand side of the page.
Donate $10 for one chance to win
Donate $20 for THREE chances to win
Thank you to all of you who have joined our journey to bring Rachel home!!!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Ipad Giveaway
Only a few more days for the IPAD giveaway! Please be sure to donate for your chance to win!!!
Click on "Chip In" on the right hand side of the blog to go to paypal to securely donate to help bring Rachel home!
$10 donation gives you 1 chance to win!
$20 donation give you 3 chances to win!
Click on "Chip In" on the right hand side of the blog to go to paypal to securely donate to help bring Rachel home!
$10 donation gives you 1 chance to win!
$20 donation give you 3 chances to win!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Being Real...
Maybe some are wondering why we have opted to adopt from China again. And maybe even more some are wondering why we have chosen to adopt a teenager from China. I have had people ask me “why not adopt a teenager from here?” And maybe others are wondering the same question.
There are many reasons why we feel this child—YangLan (soon to be Rachel)—is the child we want to bring into our family. First, we do not want Megan to be the only Chinese person in our family. Why does this matter to us? Well, sometimes adopted children feel like they are “different” because they are the only one in their family who does “fit” or doesn’t look like someone else. Does that mean Megan will feel this way? No, but she might. And we want her to have someone who has a similar heritage as her in our family.
Second—and potentially most importantly—is Rachel’s age. See in China, on an orphan’s 14th birthday, they “age out”. They are no longer eligible for services and can no longer live in the orphanage. For a child—age 14—who has lived in an environment where everything was done for them (cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc.), they have little to no survival skills. There are several different non-profits that offer programs at some orphanages to help children have a trade skill for when they age out. These trades may be ironing, laundry, computers, etc. And I would venture to guess that with the American child labor laws, few—if any—are able to work in factories. This leaves few other options for them to survive, prostitution being one of them.
We never expected to adopt from China again. In fact, back in 1998 or 1999 when I first felt called to adopt from China (and began praying for our daughter in China), I believed we only had one daughter in China. When we began the process to bring Megan home, I firmly believed we would only go back to China to visit—one day. However, since we got home with Megan, I’ve wanted her to have a sibling. With her continuing sleep problems, we really felt adding a child younger than Megan may not be the best solution for us. Besides, we are not getting any younger! I’m not sure if at my age I want to do the baby-thing again. I’m not saying starting to parent a child who has 13 years of history before us is going to be easy, but I’m going to venture to guess she’s sleeping through the night! LOL. However, once we truly discussed and decided to pursue an adoption of an older child, I realized all these years I have been praying for both Megan and Rachel. How amazing is God?!
I’ve also recently realized that most don’t know the story of Megan—well, the part I can share! When we shared with our friends and family that we were beginning the process to adopt from China, it was a little more than a year after Ian had died. Within about six weeks, God brought us over $21,000 to completely fund the adoption having done virtually nothing! Now, we had to wait for over two years to bring her home, but we never questioned whether we were on the right path because we knew this was God’s plan for at that time. This time, we are not questioning God’s timing because we know Rachel can’t wait much longer—she turns 14 in September! We are trusting He will handle the finances this time around, too! So, we are doing things like the ipad giveaway, selling hair clips, garage sale, consignment sales, selling t-shirts, applying for grants, working overtime, etc. to obtain the funds to bring Rachel home.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Ipad giveaway
Donate to win a BRAND NEW ipad
TODAY
Help us bring Rachel home!
TODAY
Help us bring Rachel home!
Donate $10 and you get ONE (1) chance to win
Donate $20 and you get THREE (3) chances to win
ALSO:
If you donate and link this on your blog, post a comment with the link to your blog and you will get an extra entry.
OR
If you are my friend on facebook, donate and post it on your status, post a comment to this posting and you will get an extra entry!
Click on the "CHIP IN" link on the right side of the page to donate securely through paypal.
The giveaway will end on October 15th. Get your tickets NOW!
All proceeds will help us bring JiJie home.
Introducing Rachel
First, if you have attempting to purchase raffle tickets for the ipad, I'm having some paypal issues. I hope they are resolved very, very soon.
Second, when we got home from our SD trip, we had a CD of pics of JiJie, who's American name will be Rachel. Here are a couple of our precious big girl. She looks so grown up in these pics. They were taken late August.
Second, when we got home from our SD trip, we had a CD of pics of JiJie, who's American name will be Rachel. Here are a couple of our precious big girl. She looks so grown up in these pics. They were taken late August.
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