Sorry it has been so very long. I have stayed off of the computer and spent time with our family.
The trip home was mostly uneventful. The plane rides, all 3 of them were great. NO turbulence and the kids were awesome on all of these. The first leg from Guangzhou to Beijing was on a bigger plane than I expected and if I remember it was only a 2 1/2 hour flight. For this leg we flew China Southern and the stewardess and stewards all dress so professionally and are so nice. We were even fed a full meal and offered a blanket! For FREE!! Or well at least no additional costs.
Although the kids were great on the plane, they were a bit OUT OF CONTROL before getting on the plane. Aric cried for the whole 1+ we had to wait to board the plane. Nothing would soothe him, he wanted on that plane and as soon as we were walking on it, he stopped crying. We have no idea what he was thinking, but I do know that both boys were on the tired side.
After arriving in Beijing, another AHH KY couple and their family and our family found our way to where we needed to go. The trick for us was getting through security. Well the Security folk decided that sending Aric and Alex through first was a good idea - NOT!!! They were wild, and the boarding passes that I had to show to get us all thru set off the metal detector, so they were giving me the thorough treatment while I tried to keep my kids somewhat in sight. Aric decided that climbing on the other side of the scanner would be a good idea and how was I to stop him?
Beijing to Newark - Alex and I slept for the majority of the 13 hour trip. Aric slept more than Dave, poor Dave just couldn't seem to sleep. :( We flew Continental just for anyone that may be interested. Oh and IMPORTANT - even after you pass thru security in Beijing and purchase any liquids in the "secure" area - they make you get rid of your drinks. That ticked me off - I have no clue why here but that is what happened to us. No problems with Security in China though, maybe because it's an International Flight. The flight was good, we had the TV's in front of us although Alex's didn't work at first, no big deal he slept most of the flight. They feed you quite a bit, these "meals" were not as good as the one's going there but that could just be personal preference. They do give you pillows, no blankets that I remember. All in all though I would recommend the Direct flight over the connecting ones any day. Oh and did you know that your feet swell? After the flights both ways I was wearing Crocs and well just plan that if you are traveling soon.
Newark we were happy to be in the US!! Yeah!! We were moving thru immigration and the guy instead of just stamping us thru, since Aric is 4 he decided to send us downstairs. Who even knew there was a downstairs?? Well the immigration officer that we were handed off to tried to talk to the initial one and said they don't need to go downstairs, just stamp 'em thru, well he wasn't going to do that and just shrugged. I can't remember the guy that walked us down but basically he was a lifesaver, he discussed it with yet another immigration officer on the way down and they both concurred that it was a bad decision to send us downstairs, where upon listening to their conversation we could just be sitting for 4 hours!!! WHAT???!! Well our lifesaver takes us in this room where there are already 50 or so people waiting, we don't even sit down before we have our file back and we are on our way. THANK YOU!!!! Truly a lifesaver.
Back upstairs and on our way, as a side note, I believe since we had to catch connecting flights that we somehow went the "wrong" way. We got to where we needed to go but we took the train and had to go thru security again. On the way there we were bussed. I don't know if it is an option and going thru Security isn't that big of a deal just if you can avoid it, do so. :)
While we were waiting for our next flight we decided to EAT - American food. :) Alex and I split Burger King and the funniest thing happened. After worrying about getting sick from food in China, the 1/2 of a small burger doesn't sit well with me.
Aric had Subway with Dave, mostly Chips and a banana. He was still at the No I'm not going to try that stage - which he still does from time to time- but mostly he will eventually try something new. He tried French Fries with ketchup and he likes those.
On the last leg of the tiny plane, which we were delayed for about 45 minutes, we had a great Steward he was funny and entertaining and nice. And most of all we had a great, no turbulence flight!!
We landed in Nashville and it was COLD!! Picked up the car, and home we go.
We arrived home at about 1:00 am. All the kids were up and my Mom and Carroll were too. They had decorated with balloons and a banner. That was fun. Aric took to them immediately.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Last Post from China
I can't believe it's over already in some ways and in many others we are ready to go home! It will be fun to introduce the rest of our family to their brother.
It has been a long day. Dave wasn't feeling that great this morning, but he is tough and bounced back and hung in there all day.
We had our Oath ceremony this afternoon. We met our guide and the other family at the White Swan to take a bus with many other families to the US Embassy. It was about a 30 minute drive, arrive at the Embassy and we registered very quickly, then waited about 10 minutes and we had our Oath - all as a group - and off we went.
The Consulate Officialy delivering the Oath was very nice and personable. He pointed out that Kentucky had the most families represented with 4!! Then he also recognized the kids with Birthday's this Month. Of course that was Aric. He was melting during most of the swearing and we had a hard time hearing (as did others around us) another family gave him crackers and that helped. The fact that we didn't get a nap in before hand probably didn't help.
The boys are crashed now and we are up early tomorrow to get ready eat and be ready to leave the hotel at 8:15. Preparing for the long travels ahead. We take a plane from Guangzhou to Beijing, then Beijing to Newark, and Newark to Nashville. Hoping the weather is ok!!! I called the kids after looking online to let them know they had a Snow Day today!! That was fun. :) Thanks Ashley for answering your phone so early. Love you guys!! Please keep us in your prayers once again for safe travels. After these next 3 planes - I really, really cannot think of any reason why I will get back on one again for awhile!!!
Bye for now! I will let you guys know when we get home safely and will add some pictures. The room here is dial up and I don't have the patience.
I had planned to go to the Starbucks but never made it there. It looks very nice!
Bye again!!
It has been a long day. Dave wasn't feeling that great this morning, but he is tough and bounced back and hung in there all day.
We had our Oath ceremony this afternoon. We met our guide and the other family at the White Swan to take a bus with many other families to the US Embassy. It was about a 30 minute drive, arrive at the Embassy and we registered very quickly, then waited about 10 minutes and we had our Oath - all as a group - and off we went.
The Consulate Officialy delivering the Oath was very nice and personable. He pointed out that Kentucky had the most families represented with 4!! Then he also recognized the kids with Birthday's this Month. Of course that was Aric. He was melting during most of the swearing and we had a hard time hearing (as did others around us) another family gave him crackers and that helped. The fact that we didn't get a nap in before hand probably didn't help.
The boys are crashed now and we are up early tomorrow to get ready eat and be ready to leave the hotel at 8:15. Preparing for the long travels ahead. We take a plane from Guangzhou to Beijing, then Beijing to Newark, and Newark to Nashville. Hoping the weather is ok!!! I called the kids after looking online to let them know they had a Snow Day today!! That was fun. :) Thanks Ashley for answering your phone so early. Love you guys!! Please keep us in your prayers once again for safe travels. After these next 3 planes - I really, really cannot think of any reason why I will get back on one again for awhile!!!
Bye for now! I will let you guys know when we get home safely and will add some pictures. The room here is dial up and I don't have the patience.
I had planned to go to the Starbucks but never made it there. It looks very nice!
Bye again!!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Safari Park
Today we started at 9:30 and off to the Safari Park Zoo - it was about a 30 minute drive over. The other family with our agency went too.
The first part we did on a small train and you ride through with the animals walking across the road - well the deer and the Non-Predatory animals. The others were not as accessibile. For that we were thankful.
The other part on foot, was fun! There were lots of really cool animals. There were 10 Pandas - one of which was 31 years old. There were a lot of White Tigers and we got to get our picture made with one. It was a baby and Dave took the picture, Aric did not want to be in it. He was very afraid of this animal. As I am holding the little tiger he starts growling. And even as small as he was the growl was intimidating.
Later we fed the Giraffes and some Squirrel Monkeys. We saw Koala Bears (although since they are nocturnal they were asleep.) They have twin Koala's which is rather unique!! I think Alex's favorite may have been the baby chimp and organtan. They were dressed in baby clothes and in a little glass enclosure. They were really cute. Aric still likes the Pandas. These Pandas were more lively than at the CQ zoo. Guess we caught them at a good time.
Alex was playing and running and fell down on his face!! He didn't get badly hurt but he scraped up his nose and knees. I will post pictures of our day and his poor little face.
The first part we did on a small train and you ride through with the animals walking across the road - well the deer and the Non-Predatory animals. The others were not as accessibile. For that we were thankful.
The other part on foot, was fun! There were lots of really cool animals. There were 10 Pandas - one of which was 31 years old. There were a lot of White Tigers and we got to get our picture made with one. It was a baby and Dave took the picture, Aric did not want to be in it. He was very afraid of this animal. As I am holding the little tiger he starts growling. And even as small as he was the growl was intimidating.
Later we fed the Giraffes and some Squirrel Monkeys. We saw Koala Bears (although since they are nocturnal they were asleep.) They have twin Koala's which is rather unique!! I think Alex's favorite may have been the baby chimp and organtan. They were dressed in baby clothes and in a little glass enclosure. They were really cute. Aric still likes the Pandas. These Pandas were more lively than at the CQ zoo. Guess we caught them at a good time.
Alex was playing and running and fell down on his face!! He didn't get badly hurt but he scraped up his nose and knees. I will post pictures of our day and his poor little face.
Sunday
Not too much - ha!
Actually we went shopping. We used Ann from Red Thread and went to a couple of the markets. She will do the negotiating for you. It was fun, but tiring!!
We went to one building that 5 levels of shoe shops, I like shoes but NOT that much. :)
It was fun and we went to Lucy's for dinner.
The boys got new shoes and Aric loved them - Red Crocs with Mickey Mouse - $7 USD Alex was asleep when we got those and when he woke up wanted some too. Now they have matching shoes.
Actually we went shopping. We used Ann from Red Thread and went to a couple of the markets. She will do the negotiating for you. It was fun, but tiring!!
We went to one building that 5 levels of shoe shops, I like shoes but NOT that much. :)
It was fun and we went to Lucy's for dinner.
The boys got new shoes and Aric loved them - Red Crocs with Mickey Mouse - $7 USD Alex was asleep when we got those and when he woke up wanted some too. Now they have matching shoes.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
First Full Day in Guangzhou
We love Shamian Island!!
The weather here is great, the buildings are beautiful and of course the people are very nice. Not as much staring here!
We completed all of the paperwork and did the Medical visit was a breeze. Weight,Height and a cursory glance and you are done.... We did realize that we don't have Aric's vaccination record and I would definitely like to have that.
We were given a lot of information from throughout his earlier years with pictures. That is awesome and we will have to have this translated.
We ate at a traditional Cantonese Chinese restaurant a few doors down from the hotel. This was an experience. When you walk in there are several tanks with Lobster, fist, Conch, Snail and at the far end there were 2 snakes in a tank and they were fighting and biting each other.
They seem to use every part of an animal - nothing goes to waste. I am an almost vegetarian as it is. If I think about what it is while/before I eat I can't eat it. Well small pigeons full size on the plate cooked. The whole pig - face and all. Duck whole..... We did try some different items, not to far out there.
Oh and they charge for tea for everyone at the table wether you drink tea or not. They also charge for napkins,which is a wet one indivually wrapped. And they served us a pickled vegetable dish and you get charged for this. Just an FYI for those traveling soon.
Lots of stores to shop at and we did a bit today. They are very nice, I don't like the haggling poriton of this. I was told by another Adoptive parent that if you go over the bridge into Guandong that the prices are cheaper than here. We have a free day tomorrow so we are going over the bridge!
We finished the day with a late dinner at Cow and Bridge - the menu is extensive! I was really enjoying my Spring Roll until I saw an unidentified piece of meat - I know I am a weirdo about it, but I didn't and don't know what it was. Oh well....
Off to bed soon, gotta get the boys down.
Sorry I couldn't post what I got - they are Christmas presents - right kids?? :)
The weather here is great, the buildings are beautiful and of course the people are very nice. Not as much staring here!
We completed all of the paperwork and did the Medical visit was a breeze. Weight,Height and a cursory glance and you are done.... We did realize that we don't have Aric's vaccination record and I would definitely like to have that.
We were given a lot of information from throughout his earlier years with pictures. That is awesome and we will have to have this translated.
We ate at a traditional Cantonese Chinese restaurant a few doors down from the hotel. This was an experience. When you walk in there are several tanks with Lobster, fist, Conch, Snail and at the far end there were 2 snakes in a tank and they were fighting and biting each other.
They seem to use every part of an animal - nothing goes to waste. I am an almost vegetarian as it is. If I think about what it is while/before I eat I can't eat it. Well small pigeons full size on the plate cooked. The whole pig - face and all. Duck whole..... We did try some different items, not to far out there.
Oh and they charge for tea for everyone at the table wether you drink tea or not. They also charge for napkins,which is a wet one indivually wrapped. And they served us a pickled vegetable dish and you get charged for this. Just an FYI for those traveling soon.
Lots of stores to shop at and we did a bit today. They are very nice, I don't like the haggling poriton of this. I was told by another Adoptive parent that if you go over the bridge into Guandong that the prices are cheaper than here. We have a free day tomorrow so we are going over the bridge!
We finished the day with a late dinner at Cow and Bridge - the menu is extensive! I was really enjoying my Spring Roll until I saw an unidentified piece of meat - I know I am a weirdo about it, but I didn't and don't know what it was. Oh well....
Off to bed soon, gotta get the boys down.
Sorry I couldn't post what I got - they are Christmas presents - right kids?? :)
Friday, December 12, 2008
Guangzhou travel day
Well another Ground Hog day here in Chongqing. Breakfast went better than it has. Aric actually will cry out if you don't get him his food fast enough and he will eat off other's plates - those two things had improved by the end today. Yea!
We got his passport and a picture album from CAB. Had to make a quick run to the grocery store for some more "jellies" a candy that they both love and we are hoping to bring some back for the other kiddos.
We had a quick bite to eat after going thru security. (thomas the tank always requires a second run thru security) We ate at a place called Flavor Tang. We had to point at the pictures cause of course we can't read Chinese and they don't speak English that well. We both chose well!!
The flight was a little turbulent but really not bad. We met our new guide and off to Shamian Island and the Victory. We love this area - it is so beautiful and also love the room. It is big. :)
We walked to Lucy's and ate dinner outside - it was wonderful.
Getting ready to go to meet for the Medical Checkup and Visa.
We got his passport and a picture album from CAB. Had to make a quick run to the grocery store for some more "jellies" a candy that they both love and we are hoping to bring some back for the other kiddos.
We had a quick bite to eat after going thru security. (thomas the tank always requires a second run thru security) We ate at a place called Flavor Tang. We had to point at the pictures cause of course we can't read Chinese and they don't speak English that well. We both chose well!!
The flight was a little turbulent but really not bad. We met our new guide and off to Shamian Island and the Victory. We love this area - it is so beautiful and also love the room. It is big. :)
We walked to Lucy's and ate dinner outside - it was wonderful.
Getting ready to go to meet for the Medical Checkup and Visa.
Chongqing Zoo
Today we went to the zoo. The boys really like this adventure!
Our guide asked Aric if he had ever been before and he said no.
Aric's favorite is the Panda - we learned that thru the guide. I'll have to say the language barrier is difficult. I really wish we could understand all his excited ramblings. It was nice when there was someone to translate for us.
Alex's favorite was the giraffes. It was a unique set up where there was glass and the could go inside and out but you could really see them close up. There was also Hippo's a Mom and baby. Boy those are big animals.
We tried to get the kids back so we can get them on a "schedule" of sorts. Then after they napped we went out and about. It is interesting just to walk around here.
The driving is crazy, traffic signals are next to non-existant, and people just walk in between the moving cars and there is a lot of beeping of horns.
Our room was hot most of the time and this is not even the hot season. We are staying at the Marriott and it is a very nice hotel, but NO air conditioning. UGH! So we opened the window and outside our window they are doing construction and this one machine that is very annoying goes on alllll daaay long and alll night long. Literally it didn't stop until after midnight. There is a lot of smog in this city of 30 million people. This city is the size of Beijing and Shanghai combined. LOTS of people.
So with the window open I had terrible allergies and there is lots of cigarette smoke everywhere. Wah!! I miss clean air for sure.
Looking forward to going to Guangzhou with it's wonderful temperatures and sunshine.
Oh yeah - very little in the way of sunshine here. It is grey.
Our guide asked Aric if he had ever been before and he said no.
Aric's favorite is the Panda - we learned that thru the guide. I'll have to say the language barrier is difficult. I really wish we could understand all his excited ramblings. It was nice when there was someone to translate for us.
Alex's favorite was the giraffes. It was a unique set up where there was glass and the could go inside and out but you could really see them close up. There was also Hippo's a Mom and baby. Boy those are big animals.
We tried to get the kids back so we can get them on a "schedule" of sorts. Then after they napped we went out and about. It is interesting just to walk around here.
The driving is crazy, traffic signals are next to non-existant, and people just walk in between the moving cars and there is a lot of beeping of horns.
Our room was hot most of the time and this is not even the hot season. We are staying at the Marriott and it is a very nice hotel, but NO air conditioning. UGH! So we opened the window and outside our window they are doing construction and this one machine that is very annoying goes on alllll daaay long and alll night long. Literally it didn't stop until after midnight. There is a lot of smog in this city of 30 million people. This city is the size of Beijing and Shanghai combined. LOTS of people.
So with the window open I had terrible allergies and there is lots of cigarette smoke everywhere. Wah!! I miss clean air for sure.
Looking forward to going to Guangzhou with it's wonderful temperatures and sunshine.
Oh yeah - very little in the way of sunshine here. It is grey.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
About the pics
The one picture is just of a guy we saw -which you see a lot of here - carrying something in that manner.
I would have loved to have gotten pictures of the little kids, about 1 - 2 years old with their split pants. They are being potty trained and go potty at the trees and grates. Yeah...
They say that Chongqing has the nickname "Foggy City" it starts gray and ends gray. LOL
The one of the boys in the car.
Then us on the Rope Bridge - if you look closely it has braiding on the sides like a rope. While we were on the bridge our guide tell us the bridge is 300 years old. :)
Also at the park, we didn't get pictures of this, but we heard music and asked about it. There were people singing Karaoke under a shelter in the park. They were playing music with a keyboardist and It wasn't exactly American style Karaoke. There were people dancing while she sang. According to our guide it is really big here!!
I would have loved to have gotten pictures of the little kids, about 1 - 2 years old with their split pants. They are being potty trained and go potty at the trees and grates. Yeah...
They say that Chongqing has the nickname "Foggy City" it starts gray and ends gray. LOL
The one of the boys in the car.
Then us on the Rope Bridge - if you look closely it has braiding on the sides like a rope. While we were on the bridge our guide tell us the bridge is 300 years old. :)
Also at the park, we didn't get pictures of this, but we heard music and asked about it. There were people singing Karaoke under a shelter in the park. They were playing music with a keyboardist and It wasn't exactly American style Karaoke. There were people dancing while she sang. According to our guide it is really big here!!
Elgin Park
Hi all,
Sorry it's been awhile. These 2 guys are a lot to keep up with. :)
Yesterday we went to Elgin Park and I believe it is the highest point in the city. It was fun, there were little cars that the boys could drive and they had a blast. We had some people walk up to us (they stare quite a bit!!!) because our guide was with us. They were very nice and told us how lucky we were to have 2 boys.
We also went to a Tea House and participated in a tea ceremony. We weren't sure how the boys would do but they did well. The lady conducting the Tea Ceremony was very nice and funny and interacted with the boys well. He Jin was really into the Chocolate tea biscuits they served, he grabbed all of those in his hand right away. Everyone there was very nice and just kept serving him more.
We went to McDonalds and I ordered a Chicken Sandwich - it was way too hot to eat. The fries and coke were the same. I ordered Diet but oh well. Aric ate one bite of fry and spit that back out. He didn't like those. Or anything else - of course I think he was full of tea biscuits.
Later we went swimming and Alex and Aric had a blast.
We are off to breakfast soon, it feels a bit like GroundHog Day. While it's nice in some respects we are really tired of being in a hotel room.
Off to post pictures.
Sorry it's been awhile. These 2 guys are a lot to keep up with. :)
Yesterday we went to Elgin Park and I believe it is the highest point in the city. It was fun, there were little cars that the boys could drive and they had a blast. We had some people walk up to us (they stare quite a bit!!!) because our guide was with us. They were very nice and told us how lucky we were to have 2 boys.
We also went to a Tea House and participated in a tea ceremony. We weren't sure how the boys would do but they did well. The lady conducting the Tea Ceremony was very nice and funny and interacted with the boys well. He Jin was really into the Chocolate tea biscuits they served, he grabbed all of those in his hand right away. Everyone there was very nice and just kept serving him more.
We went to McDonalds and I ordered a Chicken Sandwich - it was way too hot to eat. The fries and coke were the same. I ordered Diet but oh well. Aric ate one bite of fry and spit that back out. He didn't like those. Or anything else - of course I think he was full of tea biscuits.
Later we went swimming and Alex and Aric had a blast.
We are off to breakfast soon, it feels a bit like GroundHog Day. While it's nice in some respects we are really tired of being in a hotel room.
Off to post pictures.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Civil Affairs Bureau
Today was spent taking care of the necessary paperwork and going to the CAB to complete our adoption and take our oath.
Dave and our guide went to the bank to exchange money and while they were I called the kids via iChat back home. I knew they wanted to see Aric more. Well he and Alex put on a show for them and it was a lot of sibling rivalry. Not sure what the other kids thought about that!!
Then on to the CAB, it was a 20 minute ride. I don't think Dave and I will stop being amazed at the traffic and how there are not lots more accidents! It would cause serious road rage back home. They don't get upset here, or don't seem too. And you wouldn't want to drive without your horn. Our guide is an excellent driver and I think he takes it easy with us in the car. :)
When we arrived at the CAB, it is a new office and very modern. There was another couple ahead of us. It went fairly quickly, thankfully so cause with no naps the boys were not great "waiters." They did excellent though. Alex had a couple of melt downs cause Aric wanted to sit in my lap. After he noticed it made Di Di cry, he was laughing. He is mischevious.
The Assistant Director from the Orphanage came as part of the process. Aric looked very confused, but not too upset. She wanted to take a picture with him and he was reluctant about that part.
We took a family picture, then we processed the paper work, then another picture of us taking the oath. Aric loved the attention and Baba holding him. We had to do fingerprints and he liked that part a lot too.
We will get his passport on Friday before we leave along with the pictures.
We have some pictures and I will be uploading them soon. :)
Dave and our guide went to the bank to exchange money and while they were I called the kids via iChat back home. I knew they wanted to see Aric more. Well he and Alex put on a show for them and it was a lot of sibling rivalry. Not sure what the other kids thought about that!!
Then on to the CAB, it was a 20 minute ride. I don't think Dave and I will stop being amazed at the traffic and how there are not lots more accidents! It would cause serious road rage back home. They don't get upset here, or don't seem too. And you wouldn't want to drive without your horn. Our guide is an excellent driver and I think he takes it easy with us in the car. :)
When we arrived at the CAB, it is a new office and very modern. There was another couple ahead of us. It went fairly quickly, thankfully so cause with no naps the boys were not great "waiters." They did excellent though. Alex had a couple of melt downs cause Aric wanted to sit in my lap. After he noticed it made Di Di cry, he was laughing. He is mischevious.
The Assistant Director from the Orphanage came as part of the process. Aric looked very confused, but not too upset. She wanted to take a picture with him and he was reluctant about that part.
We took a family picture, then we processed the paper work, then another picture of us taking the oath. Aric loved the attention and Baba holding him. We had to do fingerprints and he liked that part a lot too.
We will get his passport on Friday before we leave along with the pictures.
We have some pictures and I will be uploading them soon. :)
Monday, December 8, 2008
Aric (He Jin) is with us!! :)
Sorry again on not posting pictures I will try again tonight.
We went to the SWI (orphanage) to pick up Aric, It was about a 40 minute drive and we got to see lots of the city which was nice. Alex fell asleep on the way over - he has jet lag and he is not the only one.
The SWI is a large place and very clean. We waited with Michael (our guide) until the Assistant Director came to accompany us inside. She is young and very nice. We went in the door of the building, up one flight of stairs and standing right outside the door with both of his Nannies was Aric. He was not looking very happy either.
We were very surprised to see how big he is! I think a lot had to do with the clothing he had on. Which we really didn't understand until later. His Nannies were talking to him and he had his Photo Book with all of our pictures in it. We knew this wasn't going to be easy. After a bit of cajoling by the nannies to look at us or talk to us - he would have nothing to do with us. And yesterday it seems he fell out of his bed and hurt his arm. :( It seems he likes to crawl out of his bed.
There were lots of other kiddos walking around. And Alex decided to share his Smarties candy with everyone - he was very popular. LOL He made himself right at home and started riding one of the little car toys they had.
We moved into Aric's room right across the hall and his bed was easy to spot because it had the red pillow we sent him.
We gave our gifts and also had brought some snacks for the kids. One of the Nannies got Aric and Alex a bag. That didn't quite soothe Aric either. We had already tried suckers, toys and everything else in his backpack.
When it was time to leave, our poor little (big) boy was grieving and didn't want to go. He cried and said no. The nannies walked us out and put him in the car with us and I got the brunt of his anger and confusion.
He was completely silent on the trip back to the hotel, our guide told him we were going to hotel and play and he calmed down. He fought going to sleep on the way back. And he was guarded once we got here.
But soon after getting back, he took out his book and showed us Baba and pointed to Dave and then Mama and pointed to me.
He LOVES to eat and we have had to put away all the food - every time he sees something he wants to eat or have it. This is to be expected I guess. We are learning. :)
He is in a great mood, he and Alex are starting to play together. He Jin (said Ho Jin) shares and now is into everything. We are going to decrease the sugar. I REALLY wish we could understand what he was saying he talks a lot now. He told me the numbers on the clock, which he got correct!! He seems very smart.
WE are going to have noodles in the room tonight and try to upload some pictures.
We went to the SWI (orphanage) to pick up Aric, It was about a 40 minute drive and we got to see lots of the city which was nice. Alex fell asleep on the way over - he has jet lag and he is not the only one.
The SWI is a large place and very clean. We waited with Michael (our guide) until the Assistant Director came to accompany us inside. She is young and very nice. We went in the door of the building, up one flight of stairs and standing right outside the door with both of his Nannies was Aric. He was not looking very happy either.
We were very surprised to see how big he is! I think a lot had to do with the clothing he had on. Which we really didn't understand until later. His Nannies were talking to him and he had his Photo Book with all of our pictures in it. We knew this wasn't going to be easy. After a bit of cajoling by the nannies to look at us or talk to us - he would have nothing to do with us. And yesterday it seems he fell out of his bed and hurt his arm. :( It seems he likes to crawl out of his bed.
There were lots of other kiddos walking around. And Alex decided to share his Smarties candy with everyone - he was very popular. LOL He made himself right at home and started riding one of the little car toys they had.
We moved into Aric's room right across the hall and his bed was easy to spot because it had the red pillow we sent him.
We gave our gifts and also had brought some snacks for the kids. One of the Nannies got Aric and Alex a bag. That didn't quite soothe Aric either. We had already tried suckers, toys and everything else in his backpack.
When it was time to leave, our poor little (big) boy was grieving and didn't want to go. He cried and said no. The nannies walked us out and put him in the car with us and I got the brunt of his anger and confusion.
He was completely silent on the trip back to the hotel, our guide told him we were going to hotel and play and he calmed down. He fought going to sleep on the way back. And he was guarded once we got here.
But soon after getting back, he took out his book and showed us Baba and pointed to Dave and then Mama and pointed to me.
He LOVES to eat and we have had to put away all the food - every time he sees something he wants to eat or have it. This is to be expected I guess. We are learning. :)
He is in a great mood, he and Alex are starting to play together. He Jin (said Ho Jin) shares and now is into everything. We are going to decrease the sugar. I REALLY wish we could understand what he was saying he talks a lot now. He told me the numbers on the clock, which he got correct!! He seems very smart.
WE are going to have noodles in the room tonight and try to upload some pictures.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
One more thing
I was surprised to find out that we will be getting Aric (Jin Jin) at the orphanage today!!
After talking with other CQ families we thought it was standard to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau, but Michael says that we will go there today.
That is different than I was thinking.
Rolling with it!
We are meeting in the hotel lobby at 9:00 to leave for pick up and he said that it would take 40 minutes to an hour because of traffic. Oh yeah - traffic laws and driving is so very different. I try just to close my eyes. Alex is enjoying his freedom out of his car seat. Lots of Audi's, VW's here.
Till later
After talking with other CQ families we thought it was standard to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau, but Michael says that we will go there today.
That is different than I was thinking.
Rolling with it!
We are meeting in the hotel lobby at 9:00 to leave for pick up and he said that it would take 40 minutes to an hour because of traffic. Oh yeah - traffic laws and driving is so very different. I try just to close my eyes. Alex is enjoying his freedom out of his car seat. Lots of Audi's, VW's here.
Till later
Hi from Chongqing!
We are Here!! And today is the day!!! How could we sleep anyway?
Sorry about the delay in posting, just got the internet figured out.
Hoping to get the adapter/converter (called a transformer by our hotel staff) figured out.
It is 6:20 or so here and we woke up, actually Alex woke up, at around 5:00 am. And once awake we couldn't seem to go back to sleep. :( Of course this is an improvement from last night's sleep, Alex woke up twice, the first time he went back to sleep and the second at around 3:00 we were just up.
The flights here were interesting! The first flight from Newark to Nashville was on a smaller than I like plane. Mostly everyone on it was surprised as there was hardly anywhere to put your bags the overhead compartments were very limited. The descent was really hard on Alex, I tried gum and drinking but he was not really having it. He gave me back the gum as though it made it worse.
He continued to flick his ear and I suspect an ear infection. :( Since he already has runny nose and cough.
The big plane ride was great. It wasn't as bad as I thought. I really like the bigger planes a lot better. We didn't do as much sleeping as we would all have liked, Alex was awesome and fell asleep for about 2 - 3 hours.
Thank you all so much for praying for our safe journey!! We couldn't have asked for better.
Beijing was great - the Rosedale Hotel was very nice! I hope to post pictures soon. It was beautifully decorated for Christmas and everyone there was so nice.
We saw the newer terminal 3 that was just built in Beijing and that was really nice and new. The weight on domestic flights - somehow I missed this is a total of all bags. You are allowed 20 kilos per person - so ours for 3 people was well under weight.
When we got to Chongqing (that flight was 2hours 15 minutes was uneventful!) Michael was there waiting for us and has been great! Chongqing is a beautiful city and looking out of our 28th story hotel window looks a lot like staying in Times Square. They do turn off all the lights at some point - not that I was up to see when. The lights on some of the buildings change colors too. It is a really fascinating city - there is a green interspersed in the city still -that was surprising. Hoping to be able to upload pictures to show you soon.
We went to the grocery store which was truly an experience. I remember reading on someone's blog about how there are so many people that work at the grocery stores and are there to help you. They are literally at the end of every aisle if not more.
Customer service is big here!! We ate dinner after we took a nap. (I think passed out was more like it, at least for Al & I!!)
We ate here in the hotel at a Japanese restaraunt - the food was great.
Going to get ready for the BIG day!!
Joy :)
Sorry about the delay in posting, just got the internet figured out.
Hoping to get the adapter/converter (called a transformer by our hotel staff) figured out.
It is 6:20 or so here and we woke up, actually Alex woke up, at around 5:00 am. And once awake we couldn't seem to go back to sleep. :( Of course this is an improvement from last night's sleep, Alex woke up twice, the first time he went back to sleep and the second at around 3:00 we were just up.
The flights here were interesting! The first flight from Newark to Nashville was on a smaller than I like plane. Mostly everyone on it was surprised as there was hardly anywhere to put your bags the overhead compartments were very limited. The descent was really hard on Alex, I tried gum and drinking but he was not really having it. He gave me back the gum as though it made it worse.
He continued to flick his ear and I suspect an ear infection. :( Since he already has runny nose and cough.
The big plane ride was great. It wasn't as bad as I thought. I really like the bigger planes a lot better. We didn't do as much sleeping as we would all have liked, Alex was awesome and fell asleep for about 2 - 3 hours.
Thank you all so much for praying for our safe journey!! We couldn't have asked for better.
Beijing was great - the Rosedale Hotel was very nice! I hope to post pictures soon. It was beautifully decorated for Christmas and everyone there was so nice.
We saw the newer terminal 3 that was just built in Beijing and that was really nice and new. The weight on domestic flights - somehow I missed this is a total of all bags. You are allowed 20 kilos per person - so ours for 3 people was well under weight.
When we got to Chongqing (that flight was 2hours 15 minutes was uneventful!) Michael was there waiting for us and has been great! Chongqing is a beautiful city and looking out of our 28th story hotel window looks a lot like staying in Times Square. They do turn off all the lights at some point - not that I was up to see when. The lights on some of the buildings change colors too. It is a really fascinating city - there is a green interspersed in the city still -that was surprising. Hoping to be able to upload pictures to show you soon.
We went to the grocery store which was truly an experience. I remember reading on someone's blog about how there are so many people that work at the grocery stores and are there to help you. They are literally at the end of every aisle if not more.
Customer service is big here!! We ate dinner after we took a nap. (I think passed out was more like it, at least for Al & I!!)
We ate here in the hotel at a Japanese restaraunt - the food was great.
Going to get ready for the BIG day!!
Joy :)
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Safe Arrival!!
Mom, Dave, and Alex made it safely to China!!!
They had no problems with the flight and had very good travels!
Posting pics of Aric's mural on the walls in his room!
They had no problems with the flight and had very good travels!
Posting pics of Aric's mural on the walls in his room!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Prayer Request
I would like to ask for your prayers for safe and uneventful travel. :)
Not a good flyer - not that I am rude to the airline staff - I get motion sickness and have quite a fear of flying!
In my Daily devotional book I skipped ahead to our travel date to look and see what the verse was for that day and guess what the verse is?! "Do Not Be Afraid. I am the First and the Last." (Revelation 1:17) That truly instilled me with so much peace!! But then I read about another Mom (not to China) her awful flight and well.....
Rereading this verse now really helps and makes me feel stronger. Fear is an irrational emotion and I have heard all of the statistics about how much safer flying is. I am weak and only human. My goal is to give it up and give it over to God - this is what it's all about.
Lord, help me to keep on trusting you and your word daily. (prayer from devotional book!)
We would still wish for your prayers!!
Thank you so much!!
Joy :)
Not a good flyer - not that I am rude to the airline staff - I get motion sickness and have quite a fear of flying!
In my Daily devotional book I skipped ahead to our travel date to look and see what the verse was for that day and guess what the verse is?! "Do Not Be Afraid. I am the First and the Last." (Revelation 1:17) That truly instilled me with so much peace!! But then I read about another Mom (not to China) her awful flight and well.....
Rereading this verse now really helps and makes me feel stronger. Fear is an irrational emotion and I have heard all of the statistics about how much safer flying is. I am weak and only human. My goal is to give it up and give it over to God - this is what it's all about.
Lord, help me to keep on trusting you and your word daily. (prayer from devotional book!)
We would still wish for your prayers!!
Thank you so much!!
Joy :)
Time to Go!!
We are finishing up last minute details and as much planning as we did early on, we are still running around like mad people.
Aric's room is being painted right now - and we are having a mural painted. Our wonderful friends' VERY talented Mother is doing the mural. Alex and Aric share a room and on Alex's side there is a mural previously painted of Guatemala. Now Aric's is of China. I haven't looked in a bit, but she painted Panda Bears with bamboo, a village in Chongqing, and the Great Wall. Austin just told me she saw it and Barb has put a Happy Chinese (New Year) Dragon on the wall too. I can't wait to run up there and see it. Maybe I can convince one of the kids to put a picture of it on the blog.
Well I guess this is my last post before China.
We will be leaving soon to spend the night in Nashville so we can easily catch that 6:45am flight out to Newark.
Please pray for our safe travels and Aric's transistion as he is leaving everything he has ever known.
If you are following, please post comments so I know you are here!!! :)
Aric's room is being painted right now - and we are having a mural painted. Our wonderful friends' VERY talented Mother is doing the mural. Alex and Aric share a room and on Alex's side there is a mural previously painted of Guatemala. Now Aric's is of China. I haven't looked in a bit, but she painted Panda Bears with bamboo, a village in Chongqing, and the Great Wall. Austin just told me she saw it and Barb has put a Happy Chinese (New Year) Dragon on the wall too. I can't wait to run up there and see it. Maybe I can convince one of the kids to put a picture of it on the blog.
Well I guess this is my last post before China.
We will be leaving soon to spend the night in Nashville so we can easily catch that 6:45am flight out to Newark.
Please pray for our safe travels and Aric's transistion as he is leaving everything he has ever known.
If you are following, please post comments so I know you are here!!! :)
Thursday, November 27, 2008
China Itinerary
Well....
The flight arrangements have been made. We leave Friday 12/5 from Nashville at 6:45am (on one of the smaller planes I REALLY don't like!!) 2 hours to Newark and then we leave at 11:15 direct to Beijing, China!! We are spending the night there and leaving the next morning to go straight to Chongqing - at 11:25 arriving in at 2:00. (Beijing will probably be on the cooler side and Chongqing is in the 50's)
Once in Chongqing we are staying at the Marriot and you should google it, quite a tall and nice looking hotel. I guess we will get our selves settled, get our Nanny gifts ready, eat, play in the pool and sleep!
Monday afternoon we get to meet Aric!! Right now I am thinking that between Saturday when we arrive in Beijing and ESPECIALLY once we are in HIS city and so very close, it will drive me nuts to not actually have him with us. We meet him at the Civil Affairs Building and this is not open on Sunday.
Tuesday we do some paperwork. Hoping that doesn't take all day!! Then we will have some free time to play with boys and get to know Aric. Hopefully he will allow me to kiss those cheeks.
Wednesday we are going to two different parks in Chongqing - hoping that the weather is good for that day. As it rains a lot in Chongqing. Even though right now is the LEAST precipitation time of the year. It still rains quite a bit.
Thursday we will visit the local zoo (they have Pandas!)
Friday visit Old Town Chongqing and then fly to Guangzhou, China at around 5:00pm arriving at around 7:15. GZ sounds nice the weather there is supposed to be fairly warm and sunny. Woo Hoo!!
Saturday we will take Aric to have his Visa photo taken and his Medical Check up.
Sunday - Church at 10:30 and the Safari Park in the afternoon
Monday - Guide goes to US consulate to take our paperwork
Tuesday we go to US Consulate to take our Oath!
Wednesday - leave GZ to Beijing - Newark and then HOME!!
The flight arrangements have been made. We leave Friday 12/5 from Nashville at 6:45am (on one of the smaller planes I REALLY don't like!!) 2 hours to Newark and then we leave at 11:15 direct to Beijing, China!! We are spending the night there and leaving the next morning to go straight to Chongqing - at 11:25 arriving in at 2:00. (Beijing will probably be on the cooler side and Chongqing is in the 50's)
Once in Chongqing we are staying at the Marriot and you should google it, quite a tall and nice looking hotel. I guess we will get our selves settled, get our Nanny gifts ready, eat, play in the pool and sleep!
Monday afternoon we get to meet Aric!! Right now I am thinking that between Saturday when we arrive in Beijing and ESPECIALLY once we are in HIS city and so very close, it will drive me nuts to not actually have him with us. We meet him at the Civil Affairs Building and this is not open on Sunday.
Tuesday we do some paperwork. Hoping that doesn't take all day!! Then we will have some free time to play with boys and get to know Aric. Hopefully he will allow me to kiss those cheeks.
Wednesday we are going to two different parks in Chongqing - hoping that the weather is good for that day. As it rains a lot in Chongqing. Even though right now is the LEAST precipitation time of the year. It still rains quite a bit.
Thursday we will visit the local zoo (they have Pandas!)
Friday visit Old Town Chongqing and then fly to Guangzhou, China at around 5:00pm arriving at around 7:15. GZ sounds nice the weather there is supposed to be fairly warm and sunny. Woo Hoo!!
Saturday we will take Aric to have his Visa photo taken and his Medical Check up.
Sunday - Church at 10:30 and the Safari Park in the afternoon
Monday - Guide goes to US consulate to take our paperwork
Tuesday we go to US Consulate to take our Oath!
Wednesday - leave GZ to Beijing - Newark and then HOME!!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Consulate Appointment!
Today we had a meeting with Alex's Speech Teacher, Preschool Teacher and the Principal is there as well. Great news as he is progressing and met all the goals we set in our August meeting. Go Alex!!!
Of course in our haste to leave we didn't eat, AND Alex decided to touch my flat iron!! (Thankfully I turn it off before I was finished even using it and it had been off for about 5 minutes) He was in our bathroom, playing happily with his trains, cars etc and I was RIGHT there in my closet when I hear "Ouch Mommy" no crying and I saw his face (yes his beautiful little face!) and he says "burns" I had him point to what he touched - of course I really knew and he was just confirming my fear. No tears and we treated with cool wash cloth and antibiotic ointment. And since it was on his face I called the Pediatrician's office. It is only 1/2 to 3/4 inches long and very, very thin. It looks like a scratch.
After the meeting, we went for breakfast and we had just finished when the phone rang and it was Mike with A Helping Hand letting us know we had our first requested Consulate Appointment (you have to list 3 choices) and that is for 12/15. Woo Hoo! Now we get to make our travel arrangements to China. The rest of the arrangements will be made by AHH in China. Of course while I was talking to Mike the Peds office calls me back. LOL
Reco after talking with the Dr was cool wash cloth and antibiotic ointment. :) Great to hear!!
It looks great now and hope it doesn't leave a scar.
ALL DAY was spent making travel arrangements to China. First we called Delight Travel, then we decided to try to use our Northwest Airlines points - $1300 with the points, then since we have a gazilion American Express points Dave tried to use those.... No luck and VERY complicated. Luckily we can buy items with those points. I sent requests out to different Travel Agents and couldn't get a better deal. Dave booked the Northwest tickets but we could cancel up until 11:59 tomorrow evening. They charged $2300 for Aric's One Way ticket home???? Are you serious???
Well, Delight Travel called back or we called them again - I forget which - but we got a rate on Continental for $1100.00 and Aric's ticket is less than that. We booked it - that was only about 1 hour ago - shortly before 7pm CST. We only started at 11:00 am CST. Thank Goodness Delight is on Pacific time. They were very helpful and friendly.
We still have to dig into the baggage fees? How much they charge etc. I think from a cursory look earlier it is $15 for the first checked bag. Where it gets tricky is the rules in the US are different than the rules in China.... so this should be fun. :) Oh and we don't have seats yet..... we will have to do that later. I want it done now, so we will see...
Must go celebrate and shake off the exasperating experience that this was.
Of course in our haste to leave we didn't eat, AND Alex decided to touch my flat iron!! (Thankfully I turn it off before I was finished even using it and it had been off for about 5 minutes) He was in our bathroom, playing happily with his trains, cars etc and I was RIGHT there in my closet when I hear "Ouch Mommy" no crying and I saw his face (yes his beautiful little face!) and he says "burns" I had him point to what he touched - of course I really knew and he was just confirming my fear. No tears and we treated with cool wash cloth and antibiotic ointment. And since it was on his face I called the Pediatrician's office. It is only 1/2 to 3/4 inches long and very, very thin. It looks like a scratch.
After the meeting, we went for breakfast and we had just finished when the phone rang and it was Mike with A Helping Hand letting us know we had our first requested Consulate Appointment (you have to list 3 choices) and that is for 12/15. Woo Hoo! Now we get to make our travel arrangements to China. The rest of the arrangements will be made by AHH in China. Of course while I was talking to Mike the Peds office calls me back. LOL
Reco after talking with the Dr was cool wash cloth and antibiotic ointment. :) Great to hear!!
It looks great now and hope it doesn't leave a scar.
ALL DAY was spent making travel arrangements to China. First we called Delight Travel, then we decided to try to use our Northwest Airlines points - $1300 with the points, then since we have a gazilion American Express points Dave tried to use those.... No luck and VERY complicated. Luckily we can buy items with those points. I sent requests out to different Travel Agents and couldn't get a better deal. Dave booked the Northwest tickets but we could cancel up until 11:59 tomorrow evening. They charged $2300 for Aric's One Way ticket home???? Are you serious???
Well, Delight Travel called back or we called them again - I forget which - but we got a rate on Continental for $1100.00 and Aric's ticket is less than that. We booked it - that was only about 1 hour ago - shortly before 7pm CST. We only started at 11:00 am CST. Thank Goodness Delight is on Pacific time. They were very helpful and friendly.
We still have to dig into the baggage fees? How much they charge etc. I think from a cursory look earlier it is $15 for the first checked bag. Where it gets tricky is the rules in the US are different than the rules in China.... so this should be fun. :) Oh and we don't have seats yet..... we will have to do that later. I want it done now, so we will see...
Must go celebrate and shake off the exasperating experience that this was.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Travel Approval!!!!!
Today we received an update on Aric's size etc. I had sent questions for the staff at his orphanage and didn't expect to get them back until we picked him up. So I was totally surprised when we received and email from Angela (ladybugsnlove service they are GREAT!!) with most of the questions answered. Wow!!! I was so excited I called Dave who was driving to Lexington to share all the questions & answers with him. :) And our boy is 41.5 " tall and 44 lbs - very healthy for his age. He is in the 50 percentile for Weight and 90th percentile for his age on Height - it's the Peds Nurse in me. The first thing I must do is plot him on a growth chart!! LOL These are only the 2nd measurements we have had!! Then it hit me!! The orphanage doesn't release any information/updates until the adopting family has Travel Approval.
I suggested to Dave that maybe our SWI/Orphanage knows something we do not.
It wasn't 1 hour after I opened the email that I received the call!! Mike called and calmly says "how are you doing?" "I don't know MIke, How am I doing??" We got TA - so of course we are doing GREAT!!!!
Now we do have to request our Consulate Appointment at the US Embassy and this is at the end of our trip so we work the days back from the appointment. He is requesting 12/15, 12/16, or 12/17 - you must list 3 choices and then they have up to 5 (very long ) days to get back with you to confirm. We are hoping to find out on Monday or before works too. Then we can make our flight arrangements and travel plans!!
Woo Hoo- I am seriously going to have to pack all of this stuff I have bought for this trip. I have purchase all kinds of medicines that I don't want to be without - just in case..... Mostly in non-liquid, dissolving forms for the kids. I must have them with us on the plane cause what if we need them? And what if they lose our bags??
No worries.... LOL We have TA!!!
I suggested to Dave that maybe our SWI/Orphanage knows something we do not.
It wasn't 1 hour after I opened the email that I received the call!! Mike called and calmly says "how are you doing?" "I don't know MIke, How am I doing??" We got TA - so of course we are doing GREAT!!!!
Now we do have to request our Consulate Appointment at the US Embassy and this is at the end of our trip so we work the days back from the appointment. He is requesting 12/15, 12/16, or 12/17 - you must list 3 choices and then they have up to 5 (very long ) days to get back with you to confirm. We are hoping to find out on Monday or before works too. Then we can make our flight arrangements and travel plans!!
Woo Hoo- I am seriously going to have to pack all of this stuff I have bought for this trip. I have purchase all kinds of medicines that I don't want to be without - just in case..... Mostly in non-liquid, dissolving forms for the kids. I must have them with us on the plane cause what if we need them? And what if they lose our bags??
No worries.... LOL We have TA!!!
Monday, November 10, 2008
PICTURES!!
Today started out GREAT!!! We received pictures of Aric. :)
We had arranged thru a service in China - Ladybugsnlove.com -- Angela -- to send Aric a Care Package.
We sent him the pillow he is holding!! We emailed the picture to Angela and she puts it in the pillow. I was told by another adoptive Mom that they really like these. So now we KNOW Aric realizes he has a family and he looks pretty happy about it.
We also sent the cake - it is an awesome looking cake - with all the different fruits on it. It really is pretty.
LOVE the pictures of our smiley, precious boy!!
Isn't he just the cutest????
We had arranged thru a service in China - Ladybugsnlove.com -- Angela -- to send Aric a Care Package.
We sent him the pillow he is holding!! We emailed the picture to Angela and she puts it in the pillow. I was told by another adoptive Mom that they really like these. So now we KNOW Aric realizes he has a family and he looks pretty happy about it.
We also sent the cake - it is an awesome looking cake - with all the different fruits on it. It really is pretty.
LOVE the pictures of our smiley, precious boy!!
Isn't he just the cutest????
Friday, November 7, 2008
Friday!! And a snippet of information....
It is Friday and 2 weeks ago we received our LOA!! The LOA was recieved in China on Tuesday 10/28! We are HOPING and PRAYING that we do receive our Travel Approval within the 3 week time frame our Agency estimated. That 3 week time frame would be next week!!! I am trying not to become overly excited and at the same time we are doing things to prepare for our trip and Aric's arrival. Dave has worried a lot about rearranging his Seminars and the availability of the clubs - especially at this holiday time of year when they are so booked. Today he got word that he will be able to squeeze in his sessions before we go!!
All but one - which will take place 1 or 2 days after we return home. This is a huge relief, although it will be a lot of work on my dear husband.
Tonight I received an email from a Mom I have been "talking" to for a couple of months. I "met" her on our SWI Yahoo Group and she picked up her child a couple of months ago from the SWI that Aric is at. From my understanding the kids are divided by age and also possibly grouped with other kids that have a forever family. After an exchange of pictures and our video of Aric, she realized she had seen him. While she was there, she told me that Aric understands what having a Mama & Baba means. He was sad that he didn't have one - OUCH! That breaks my heart. Well, tonight she emailed me and was discussing his routine and I found out he sleeps in his underwear and t-shirt! Now as small a piece of information as this is - it gives me insight into his daily routine and how our son spends his days. She also says she thinks he is in a 4t possibly a 3t. Boy, did I buy too big.
This was a wonderful email and I will probably read and re-read it a couple of times.
We did send him a care package - I sent him a cake -not a birthday cake - but a we are your family now cake. We also sent a blanket and a picture pillow. The pillow has a picture of us on it. I hope we don't overwhelm him with that. Also we added the candy and nuts, and a camera. Oh and I sent a list of questions for his nannies - that Angela (@ Ladybugsnlove.com) will translate for us. I am hoping that by sending it ahead of time we may get some answers about his life, routine, friends, fears, anything.
It is late and I should be asleep! I will post pictures of the care package.
All but one - which will take place 1 or 2 days after we return home. This is a huge relief, although it will be a lot of work on my dear husband.
Tonight I received an email from a Mom I have been "talking" to for a couple of months. I "met" her on our SWI Yahoo Group and she picked up her child a couple of months ago from the SWI that Aric is at. From my understanding the kids are divided by age and also possibly grouped with other kids that have a forever family. After an exchange of pictures and our video of Aric, she realized she had seen him. While she was there, she told me that Aric understands what having a Mama & Baba means. He was sad that he didn't have one - OUCH! That breaks my heart. Well, tonight she emailed me and was discussing his routine and I found out he sleeps in his underwear and t-shirt! Now as small a piece of information as this is - it gives me insight into his daily routine and how our son spends his days. She also says she thinks he is in a 4t possibly a 3t. Boy, did I buy too big.
This was a wonderful email and I will probably read and re-read it a couple of times.
We did send him a care package - I sent him a cake -not a birthday cake - but a we are your family now cake. We also sent a blanket and a picture pillow. The pillow has a picture of us on it. I hope we don't overwhelm him with that. Also we added the candy and nuts, and a camera. Oh and I sent a list of questions for his nannies - that Angela (@ Ladybugsnlove.com) will translate for us. I am hoping that by sending it ahead of time we may get some answers about his life, routine, friends, fears, anything.
It is late and I should be asleep! I will post pictures of the care package.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Wowza! Pre-Travel Meeting Today
Well.... today we had our Pre-Travel Meeting with the agency and the other family who is in our travel group. (us via telephone) It was scheduled for 5:00 est. I had (6 months earlier) scheduled my dentist appt. for 4:00 and after thinking about it thought I would be ok. Duh!
We are on Central time so a 5:00 Eastern means 4:00 Central. Argh! Reschedule!!
Not that I was going to make it to this meeting anyway. Alex awoke from his short nap wheezing - at 3:00. I wasn't sure at first so I got out the stethscope and checked and sure enough - there it was. And just for good measure, you could actually hear his wheezing without a steth! So I go to call my Pediatrician's office and realize today is their first day in their new office, don't know that number. It wasn' hard to figure out and got our nurse on the phone and she said bring him on in - so off we went. We were seen pretty quickly and the doc verified that he is indeed wheezing and he ordered a breathing treatment in the office. Alex did very well. After the treatment he checked him and he had cleared a lot. We got 3 prescriptions - 1 for our very own Nebulizer @ least for 30 days 2 for the medicine for the machine and 3 Liquid steroid.
I go to the Home Health store (at about 4:30) and get the neb machine, then over to the Pharmacy for the remainder.
Luckily, the agency only requires one parent to attend. I still got home for the last twenty minutes!!
Lots of information to digest and Visa applications to fill out etc. It surely isn't just getting on a plane. :)
It feels WONDERFUL to be in this phase of active participation vs. the WAITING!!! It is a blessing!!
Alex is WILD after his meds - lots of fun!! He seems to have responded to the treatment and will get another in 45 minutes in addition to his liquid steroid, which I don't think he really cared for. He is a great medicine taker so, he takes it anyway!! Yeah!
Picked up pictures of Ashley's Calendar Girl event and will hopefully post them in a couple of days.
We are on Central time so a 5:00 Eastern means 4:00 Central. Argh! Reschedule!!
Not that I was going to make it to this meeting anyway. Alex awoke from his short nap wheezing - at 3:00. I wasn't sure at first so I got out the stethscope and checked and sure enough - there it was. And just for good measure, you could actually hear his wheezing without a steth! So I go to call my Pediatrician's office and realize today is their first day in their new office, don't know that number. It wasn' hard to figure out and got our nurse on the phone and she said bring him on in - so off we went. We were seen pretty quickly and the doc verified that he is indeed wheezing and he ordered a breathing treatment in the office. Alex did very well. After the treatment he checked him and he had cleared a lot. We got 3 prescriptions - 1 for our very own Nebulizer @ least for 30 days 2 for the medicine for the machine and 3 Liquid steroid.
I go to the Home Health store (at about 4:30) and get the neb machine, then over to the Pharmacy for the remainder.
Luckily, the agency only requires one parent to attend. I still got home for the last twenty minutes!!
Lots of information to digest and Visa applications to fill out etc. It surely isn't just getting on a plane. :)
It feels WONDERFUL to be in this phase of active participation vs. the WAITING!!! It is a blessing!!
Alex is WILD after his meds - lots of fun!! He seems to have responded to the treatment and will get another in 45 minutes in addition to his liquid steroid, which I don't think he really cared for. He is a great medicine taker so, he takes it anyway!! Yeah!
Picked up pictures of Ashley's Calendar Girl event and will hopefully post them in a couple of days.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
LOA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On day 99 of our wait for LOA - we got the call that our agency had received our LOA!!!
I was on the phone with Dave and we were composing and email he needed to get out. While we were talking he got an incoming call from an 859 area code.( Area Code for Lexington KY where our Agency is located) Over the past couple of months I have gotten very excited when this happens, but since he is now working in that area I don't.
I did of course say "take it, take it" which he took the call and I continued to work on the email and add the attachments etc. After about 5 minutes he calls me back, I didn't even ask about the call I just started to talk about the email and figured if it was someone calling about our LOA he would tell me.... We finish the work email and he starts asking me what I am going to do this afternoon? and tells me he is concerned about traveling to China before Christmas, yea me too...
Well he says we need to go to Lexington today and BOING!! I KNEW!! I interrupted him and said We got it, it came???? Yes!! We need to go to Lexington today get it signed and back in the mail just to get it back ASAP in hopes that will help get our Travel Appointment sooner.
This sounds as though I were calm, I wasn't, I was bawling tears of JOY. LOL
We did drive to Lexington and signed our LOA and AHH got that back in the mail and hopefully it is in China today. :)
I'm leaving out some of this story, I will post more details later!!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
October already!!
Wow!
I cannot believe that October is here and it is already getting cool out. We have had some beautiful sunny fall days. Unfortunately I am not feeling as sunny as the weather outside. With every week there is renewed hope for our next step closer to bringing home Aric to be achieved -but when nothing is coming it is depressing!!
We are on Day 76 of the wait and there are others out there that have waited longer and there are many, many things we have to be thankful for!! Knowing who our little guy is and not being able to hold him and get to know him and love him and protect him and do all the things that families do - well that for me is what makes it harder. Today has just been a particularly funky day for me and I will snap out of it.
Alex has been asking to go get Aric - he says he wants to play cars and trains with him. That is sooooo sweet to hear.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
September
September is my favorite month!! Of course it is my birthday month - but I think even if it weren't I would still love it. The weather here in KY has been gorgeous and my Mommy (it doesn't matter that I am 38 - she is still and forever Mommy!!) surprised me with a visit from NC for my birthday!!
I cannot believe that they - My husband, my kiddos and my Mom actually were able to pull it off. And I think I am a bit dissappointed that the girls didn't spill. LOL Monday I was putting Alex down for his nap and the door to the bedroom opens and in she walks!! My husband said the look on my face was worth it. Of course I cried!!!
It has been a great week - we got to visit and just hang out for the last few days. Alex has gotten to know his Granny and his Pop Pop as he calls him and he keeps saying that he wants to go to Granny's house!!
Of course the bad/sad part is that she had to go home. :( The good news is we will be going there for Fall Break in a couple of weeks and my 20th class reunion. (has it really been 20 years????)
She did get to experience some fun things with us for sure...... Today Alex got his Thomas the Tank stuck so tightly in his hair that it had to be cut out!!
The absolute perfect week would have been to receive our LOA today. I guess we have one more day this week. Hey - a girl can dream!! It will actually probably be a couple more weeks as things have been progressing slower in LOA land!
We did get some pictures from other families that have traveled which is awesome to see him - but one Mom did say that after picking up her daughter that he was sad because her daughter had left and that was his crib mate and that he understands what a Mama & Baba (Mom & Dad) are...... I am sad and happy to learn this. Happy that may indicate he might be less likely to grieve because he is anticipating us coming and possibly looking forward to this as his friends in his room were being adopted. Sad because I want to hold him and soothe him as he grieves for the loss of his friends. Hold on baby we are coming!!!
Monday, September 1, 2008
A little bit at a time...
This past week - Ash and Aus applied for their passports. It was fun. We got out of school just a few minutes early and went to the post office here. The same place Alex and Nick had theirs done.
Nicks arrived exactly one week after applying - Alexs' we had to provide more documentation but then it came within the next week. Hoping that is the case with the twins.
Alex's birthday was yesterday - he is now 3 years old. I will post pictures soon.
We are on Day 44 of our wait for LOA............
Much more to do of course.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Sunday
Not a lot new to post specifically about Aric. We have been working on completing our Adoption Education requirements. And applied for Alex and Nick's passports for our trip.
On Friday the twins made the decision that they too want to go with us to China. We are very excited that they wish to go too - this should make it even more memorable. We meet with the older kids principal tomorrow. He will need to approve this time out of school and arrangements made for missed work. This will definitely require effort on the kids parts and the last thing we want is for them to get behind because of the trip. I really think that if the school and teachers will work with us we can make this happen!!
Dave got his immunizations updated on Thursday - his Hep A & started his Hep B series. All the rest of us have already had the Hep B series and the kids are up to date on their Tetanus shots. I on the other hand will need a Tetanus mine will expire soon..... and we will all need an influenza immunization but of course those won't be available for another month at least. Then there is the recomendation by the CDC for a Typhus vaccine - we will see about that one possibly too.
We (me) have gotten some shirts and shorts, a pair of water shoes and a small toy together for a care package we want to send to Aric. I got the shoes in a size that hopefully he can wear and I bought those because I have heard that the orphanage likes Robeez the soft shoes for the younger kids and thought this my be a comparative for the older kiddos. If they don't fit our guy I am sure they will use for someone.
We are also trying to find someone locally that can help us learn to speak with Aric in Mandarin.
Have a great week!! (Day 37 of the wait for LOA!!)
Sunday, July 27, 2008
LID!!
We received our Logged In Date (LID) which means - I believe this is correct - that are Dossier is now officially Logged In to the Chinese Center for Adoption Affairs and that our case will start being reviewed - hopefully for Approval.
From what I have seen & heard this starts our "wait" until travel. The wait has been running about 60-90 days.... of course hoping for the 60 day mark. :)
Then we will hopefully receive LOA - Letter Of Acceptance and a few weeks later our Travel Appointment and Consulate Appointment and then we travel!!
We also got a video of him and hopefully I will figure out how to post. It is incredibly short (if it were a few hours I would say that too:) he doesn't speak and it is set to some sad music. Or maybe I just hear it as sad. He is INCREDIBLY cuter in action and I cannot wait to kiss those chubby little cheeks!!!
Can't possibly forget to add our updated STATS!! I love adding the initials - it feels like we are progressing....
LOI 3/14/08
PA 4/14/08
USCIS Approval 6/12/08
DTC 7/03/08
LID 7/18/08
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Care Package
About a month or so ago - we ordered a Care package for Aric and his friends and Nannies.
We weren't quite sure exactly what to send. The service we used has a great website and offers a lot at a fraction of the cost of others.
We sent a picture album filled with pictures of all of us - holding a picture of Aric. Then Angela (ladybugsnlove owner) labels them in Chinese for us. We hope that his nannies will share this with him at some point before we go for pick up. Also we ordered a Camera - they will hopefully take pictures of him during his daily routine and we will get that at pick up. We got Aric a stuffed Panda Bear and ordered double on the sweet treats. Hoping that will be enough for all.....
Guessing it doesn't hurt to send gifts to the ladies that are caring for your son. :)
DTC 7/3/08
Duh???!! So sorry I forgot to blog this.
We are Officially DTC (Dossier To China) as of 7/3/08!!!!!!!!
There really is SO VERY much that goes into the Dossier. For example - Birth Certificates - mine and Dave's - not just a copy of the one we have - oh no! It must be a "live signature" copy and not older than 6 months. Well Dave's is from Wi and then it has to be certified. What does that mean exactly - well the person that signed his copy - we must get that signature certified at the State level by WI. Then this must be state level has to be certified at the federal level and at the Chinese Embassy. That is a total of 4 pieces of paper right there. BC went to Chicago - and we have to pay a courier fee for a person to take the docs there have the seals and signatures administered (that cost is separate) and then mail them back to us.
Now his birth certificate was the only one that we had to send to a different Embassy. The rest of our documents - mostly KY with the exception of my Birth Certificate - all went to DC. As in Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice and then to the embassy. All other docs were a total of 5 pieces of paper.
Guess you get the idea that it is a lot of paperwork!! And it can be a very frustrating and tiresome process - I guess not much different than labor. This was our paperwork pregnancy - and not unlike a "regular" labor - I did most of the work. Dave said that this part really drove him nutz and he doesn't really get all that we have to do. Being the supportive, wonderful hubby that he is - he was an excellent "Coach"
Now we wait to find out our official Logged In Date -- or LID. From this date begins our countdown. The average wait for LOA right now is 60 - 90 days & we get to count every day not just work days. LOL This is not anything the agency gives us - just what I learn from a China Adoption message board.
So far our stats are:
LOI (letter of intent to adopt) 3/14/08
PA (Pre-Approval) 4/14/08
USCIS Approval 6/12/08
DTC 7/3/08
LID ???
LOA ???
Mandarin Chinese Word for the Day - Tuesday
Very Important Phrase:
How much is it?
Duoshao qian?
Dwoh-shao chee-ahn
Monday, July 7, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Wednesday
No adoption news today - which I HOPE is a good sign.
We are going to Ruth & Dave's for the 4th (D's Parents) they have a wonderful home on the lake.
This will be totally relaxing when we get there. The kids have such a great time.
Alex LOVES the beach and we can't wait for him to get to spend some time with Ruth & Dave and they get to see how much he has changed and how funny he can be. It will be great for all the kids to get to see them!!
Looking forward to next year when Aric can enjoy it with us all.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Document...
Just got and email from our agency and the Document has been received!!
PTL!!
God Willing we are going to send our Dossier To China this Thursday!!!
YEA!! :)
Monday, June 30, 2008
Monday
No new information. :(
I did call our coordinator today and left a voicemail - just wondering if they received Dave's BC back from Chicago.
Hope to hear something tomorrow!!!
I did talk with a Mom that will be traveling on the 6th of July to pick up her child. Our children are in the same orphanage and she has offered to take pictures (try to) and check up on Aric. That is great news!!!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Dossier Completion??
After receiving our USCIS approval - Monday, 6/16 Austin, Alex and I drove to our agency A Helping Hand ( in Lexington KY) to pick up the documents that needed the additional certifications. A few we had to take to Fayette County Clerk of Court - then on to Frankfort, KY to the Secretary of State's office and get the State Certifications from them.
Then back to Lexington and A Helping Hand - we met with Dana to discuss what we need to send and where. The documents have to go on to the Chinese Embassy. I thought they would all go to the same one and that is one reason we waited to send them all at once. You use a courier service to take the documents to the Embassy and in our case they go to Washington and also on to the Secretary of State office there. Other states send to different locations - the courier charges a set amount for the documents - $135. Well it seems that since Dave's Birth Certificate is from Wisconsin - this document must go to Chicago Consulate. Bummer! An additional courier fee.
A Helping Hand mails out correspondence to China once a week on Friday's - so if everything were to have gone as planned our Dossier would have been sent to China on 6/27 - BUT the document from Chicago did not get back as expected?!
We REALLY HOPE our Dossier will be able to be sent out on Thursday - 7/3 - it is a Thursday this week cause of the 4th of July holiday falling on Friday.
After we are DTC (Dossier To China) we will wait to receive our Logged In Date or LID. This is the date that begins our official wait. :)
The dates - subject to change at any given second - most recently families have been waiting and average of 60-70 days for their Letter Of Acceptance. From my understanding this is the document!! This will mean we have officially been approved for his adoption. With the Olympics thrown in there in the middle - who knows what type of backlog that could possibly create. Families that received their LOA's (Letters Of Acceptance) back on 5/1 -- will be traveling on July 17th and the travel dates are being squeezed in prior to the Olympics.
So - right now we will just concentrate on our DTC date. :)
Praying that Aric is safe, healthy, and loved.
We Have USCIS APPROVAL!!
Sorry it has been soooo long since I have written!
We did receive USCIS approval - we received it on Saturday, June 14th! Funny thing is this is not a day we were even home. Of Course!! No running to the mailbox as soon as the mail arrives to see if this is the day???
We were out of town working and got back in late. Dave had brought the mail in and he knew but didn't say anything, I think he knew it wouldn't take me long. I zero'd in on the mail 2 minutes after I walked in the door and THERE IT WAS!! It is a most beautiful piece of paper. :)
So only 1 month 2 weeks and 1 day to get. Not too bad considering I had been hearing 3 months!!!
Guess the next step is to change the Poll!!
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Home Study -- 5/02/08
FINALLY!!! Our home study was submitted to USCIS in Louisville for approval.
I have tried to get an idea of how long they are currently taking. I have seen one as little as 2 weeks up to 60 days and also heard it is taking 3 months!!! I truly HOPE that it does not take 3 months for approval. That would be excruciating.
We also sent the majority of our paperwork to A Helping Hand (our placement agency) for review. I still have to have the home study notary - county certified and then I can send that in.
We will be in Owensboro tomorrow - so I am planning on picking it up - the County Certification that is - while we are there.
We still need to get our family pictures taken to submit with our dossier. Professional pictures are not required so you think this would be an easy task. Not!! It is so hard lately to gather everyone at the same time for a picture. I have asked for this for Mother's Day!!
We are working (Repicci's Italian Ice) the BBQ festival this weekend in Owensboro.
So if you are close, come by and see us. :)
Pre Approval
YEA!! YEA!!
We have PA from the People's Republic of China!!
We received this on 4/23/08 - it was actually approved on 4/14/08.
This means that we have been ok'd to pursue Aric's adoption. Any ok from China is a WIN.
It also means that we can send a Care Package to Aric. This is in the works...
There are different online sites where you can pick out certain items to send to him. They also will translate a letter to him for you. Which is awesome. The one we are going with is www.ladybugsnlove.com
This form of care package is a bit different than what we got to do for Alex. We picked out all the stuff and sent with another family. It is nice to have this option.
Right now we are planning to send pictures of the family - and they will label them for us in Chinese as well, the letter, a Panda bear, some candy and nuts - which is for the other kiddos and nannies, a camera and maybe one more thing!!
It is really hard not to just open up the wallet and send everything they offer. We are afraid that may be a bit overwhelming to do though.
Oh!! We are part of a Yahoo group for Chongqing Parents - this is for parents that have adopted and are currently adopting. It is really neat to be able to see the place where Aric lives. There are a ton of pictures which we have scoured looking to see if they could possibly be Aric. Some are from at least 2 years ago, so sadly I cannot be 100% certain any of them are Aric. There are some real cuties in the pictures though!! Anyway, there is an adoptive Mom that is picking up her child this week and offered to check on Aric. She has said she will send pictures. That would be the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!
Very excited to get to do this!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Word on Home Study
Got an email that our home study is finished. The review at KAS is being done and we should be able to review. Got an email with it today and cannot open it --- UGH-- on either computer.
So frustrating...
Sent an email back to our Social Worker this morning that we couldn't open it and still nothing.
Hoping for our chance to peek at it soon.
Then the HS must be reviewed by A Helping Hand our placement agency - then KAS will send to USCIS.
We are hurrying up to wait - I want us to begin our wait soooooon!!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Getting Closer to Completing our Home Study!
Ok... well this home study process is taking waaay looonger than I would like. There have been some additional forms we have had to get. And we also had to get additional references, so it can't be helped.
I am hoping that this will be completed and sent to our placement agency THIS WEEK - then A Helping Hand will review it and granted there aren't any changes necessary they will send it on to USCIS and then we will begin the 2 - 3 month wait for approval from the US Government. They must give a family their approval before you are allowed to adopt internationally.
Once we receive that approval we can then send our Dossier to China and get officially Logged In - and then the wait for their approval begins...
We are currently waiting on Pre-Approval from China - which we are told sometimes they issue and sometimes they do not. I think we would like to get it though. Just to let us know that we are on their radar, so to speak. We sent in our Letter of Intent on 3/14/08.
In the spirit of our adoption & the fact that we are trying to "learn" some phrases in an effort to be able to communicate with Aric, I thought we should have a Mandarin Chinese Phrase for the Day so here is one for today-
"I Love You" Wo Ai Ni - said like Whoa A Nee
Aric Wo Ai Ni -- we are going as fast as we can!!!!
Friday, April 11, 2008
First Blog
Well.... we are adopting - again!!
It's a BOY!! Aric Gabriel.... He is 4 years old and has one of the BEST smiles ever.
We learned about Aric at A Helping Hand Adoption Agency.
At this point we are doing simultaneous processes.... We are working on the Home Study - which is the starting point and compiling our documents for our dossier.
The day we first saw that beautiful smiling face 2/15/08
Our Date of Official Referral is 3/06/08
We sent in our Letter Of Intent on 3/14/08
Awaiting Pre Approval (Current wait time is 20 days - feels longer)
We have sent in our USCIS paper work and have been fingerprinted - waiting on the completion of our Home Study.... COULD not happen fast enough for me!!
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