God truly answered all of our prayers above and beyond. We had a safe and pleasant trip home and were not sick at all while in China. We are recovering well--just very tired. Xiaolei was a trooper on the three planes and van we took to get from China to our house. He played, slept and was entertained by the flight attendants. The only time he fussed was when we had to put his seatbelt back on because of turbulence. We got great seats in the bulkhead where there was room for him to stretch out and do puzzles in front of our seats because no one was in front of us. We had the entire middle row to ourselves--5 seats because the plane was not very full.
Xiaolei is having a blast at his new home. When I gave him the tour, he just grinned when he saw his room and the backyard. He is having fun playing with all of the toys--especially the cars and trains. He also enjoys driving the Little Tikes coupe in the backyard.
We are waiting for my mom and dad to bring Theo and Ruthie here. We can't wait to see them. We also can't wait for them to meet Xiaolei. They are very excited as well. It has been a long 19 days away from my sweet babies. :) They had a wonderful time at their grandparent's and their Aunt Phyllis' house, though. It was like being a summer camp for them.
That's all for now. Just so thankful to be home and also thankful that God blessed us with such a sweet little boy as an addition to our family. We are very very blessed and happy.
God is good!!
Thank you for covering us with your prayers during this entire journey. We can't wait for all of you to meet Xiaolei (Levi).
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Final Post From China
Ni Hao, Ya'll!
Well, we are leaving for the American Consulate in 45 minutes for Levi to take his oath as an American citizen!! Yeah!! Then, we will be whisked off to the airport to catch our flight to Beijing. We will spend one night in Beijing, get up on Wednesday morning and head back to the airport to catch our international flight to San Fransisco and then on to Dallas. We are VERY excited to be heading back home. It has been a very pleasant experience being in China and getting to know our new son. He is an absolute delight! BUT.....we are ready to come home. ha! 19 days is a long time to be away from our other two cutie pies and our family and friends. :)
So, this is the final blog from China. We'll see you all in the good old USA very soon.
Please keep us in your prayers as we make this long journey home with a 4 year old. :) We ask that you pray specifically for safety and for us to make our connecting flight from SF to Dallas.
I added some more pictures--some are old from when we were in Beijing the first time. I forgot to post for a couple of days but wanted to show your our Great Wall and snow experience. Too much fun.
The red couch picture is in Guangzhou inside The White Swan Hotel. It has become a tradition for all adoptive families to dress their children in Chinese silk outfits and take pictures on the red couch. Levi is sitting with his friend who will live in San Antonio, Texas. He is a sweet boy named Thomas. Best wishes to them on their travels and homecoming. :)
Love to you all.
dsi jeeyen (Good bye in Chinese)
Well, we are leaving for the American Consulate in 45 minutes for Levi to take his oath as an American citizen!! Yeah!! Then, we will be whisked off to the airport to catch our flight to Beijing. We will spend one night in Beijing, get up on Wednesday morning and head back to the airport to catch our international flight to San Fransisco and then on to Dallas. We are VERY excited to be heading back home. It has been a very pleasant experience being in China and getting to know our new son. He is an absolute delight! BUT.....we are ready to come home. ha! 19 days is a long time to be away from our other two cutie pies and our family and friends. :)
So, this is the final blog from China. We'll see you all in the good old USA very soon.
Please keep us in your prayers as we make this long journey home with a 4 year old. :) We ask that you pray specifically for safety and for us to make our connecting flight from SF to Dallas.
I added some more pictures--some are old from when we were in Beijing the first time. I forgot to post for a couple of days but wanted to show your our Great Wall and snow experience. Too much fun.
The red couch picture is in Guangzhou inside The White Swan Hotel. It has become a tradition for all adoptive families to dress their children in Chinese silk outfits and take pictures on the red couch. Levi is sitting with his friend who will live in San Antonio, Texas. He is a sweet boy named Thomas. Best wishes to them on their travels and homecoming. :)
Love to you all.
dsi jeeyen (Good bye in Chinese)
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Hello Again! From Guangzhou
For my faithful blog-readers (family and friends), I am sorry for not blogging the last couple of days. We left Beijing and are now in Guangzhou--near Hong Kong. Our hotel does not offer free internet access like in Beijing, so we had to figure out how much it would cost. We were able to purchase some online time for the last 2 days of our trip.
We arrived in Guangzhou late Friday night. We got up early Saturday morning to get Levi's Visa picture taken and to visit the doctor for his required medical checkup that is sent to the American Consulate. He did very well at the medical clinic--he only fussed once when he was scared. You would not believe the amount of people in the clinic. It was a mad house! We tried not to breathe in any sick germs! UGH!! Lots of hand sanitizer was used after that experience! :)
Guangzhou is really a very nice city--at least the part we are in surrounding the hotel. The hotel is about 45 minutes from the airport--so we saw the not-so-nice parts of the city at nighttime as well. When leaving the airport, this grungy looking Chinese man kept rubbing Levi's head. It drove me crazy, so of course, I had to bathe him as soon as we checked into our room. Rich was laughing at me. I have been pretty calm about the "germ thing" this whole trip, but that really got to me. The airport just seemed dirty, too. ha! The man told our guide that he didn't understand why we came all the way to China to adopt when there are children in America. I don't know what our guide told him--we were too tired for a lengthy discussion. The weather here is just like Texas--hot and humid! This is a big change for us, since we just left Beijing where it was snowing, We are at a 5-star hotel that is very fancy. Right outside the hotel doors are tons of little shops geared for the tourist and adoption crowd. All American families who adopt from China must go through this city to get their child's visa at the American Consulate. Because of this and the historical western influence, many people speak English here quite well. The architecture is totally different here than it was in Beijing. The buildings look more English. It reminds me of being in the deep south--like Georgia or one of the Carolinas. The streets are lined with very old southern style buildings and lots of beautiful trees. There is also a playground with a slide and see-saw that is within walking distance from the hotel. There was nowhere to take Levi to play in Beijing--so this is definitely a plus! The hotel also has an indoor playroom as well. They definitely cater to the children and their families here!
It is nice to be surrounded by American families again, since we were the only family in Beijing from our adoption agency. When we eat our breakfast buffet in the morning, we get to sit all around families who are here for the same reason. It is also nice to not be started at by the Chinese people like we were in Beijing. The people here are more accustomed to seeing American couples with Chinese children. All in all, it has been a pleasurable experience. We are just too tired and homesick to really enjoy it as much as we could. :) We have been in China now for 16 days and have 3 to go--including that very very long flight home with a 4-year old who has ants in his pants! ha! :) Speaking of flying, on the 3-hour flight from Beijing to Guangzhou, Levi did GREAT! He was so well-behaved and so excited to be in an airplane. We played and ate and listened to music. We were all out of activities to entertain him by the end of 3 hours, so I am not sure how we will manage a 12 hour flight from Beijing to San Francisco and then another 3-4 hours to Dallas. UGH!! Please keep us in your prayers. It will be hard on all of us to be on the plane that long especially since we are so ready to be home. Rich and I can't wait to give Theo and Ruthie a big hug and kiss and just hold them. We also can't wait for them to meet their new brother. Hopefully, the reunion will go well.
Today (Sunday), we visited an old temple that has been converted into a folk art museum. We got to see artists finger painting and carving and playing musical instruments. It was really fun! One man showed Levi how to play an instrument they call a Calabash Bamboo Flute, which makes beautiful Chinese-sounding tones. We also saw exquisite embroidery work and jade carvings. The Chinese people can carve elaborate designs into just about anything--including bones, small olive nuts, jade, wood, tile and more. We enjoyed talking to the artists and seeing their amazing talents. After the folk art museum, we toured a porcelain and jade factory. This was neat too, we were just not too "in-to" this since we are ready to be home and Xiaolei was ready to eat lunch and take a nap!
We have enjoyed visiting with other adoptive families while here. We also are enjoying eating at a local restaurant called Lucy's. At this eatery, they serve American food as well as Chinese food. So, we can have the best of both worlds!! :)
On Monday, we will be packing and getting ready to head back to the U.S. On Tuesday, we take the oath with Levi at the American Consulate offices and get his visa. We already got his passport in Beijing. Then, late Tuesday night, we fly to Beijing spend one night and get up early Wednesday morning and fly out to San Fransisco. We have about a hour lay-over there and then finally on to Dallas. We should be home in the late evening on Wednesday--American time. It will feel like Thursday--China time to us.
That is all for now. :)
We arrived in Guangzhou late Friday night. We got up early Saturday morning to get Levi's Visa picture taken and to visit the doctor for his required medical checkup that is sent to the American Consulate. He did very well at the medical clinic--he only fussed once when he was scared. You would not believe the amount of people in the clinic. It was a mad house! We tried not to breathe in any sick germs! UGH!! Lots of hand sanitizer was used after that experience! :)
Guangzhou is really a very nice city--at least the part we are in surrounding the hotel. The hotel is about 45 minutes from the airport--so we saw the not-so-nice parts of the city at nighttime as well. When leaving the airport, this grungy looking Chinese man kept rubbing Levi's head. It drove me crazy, so of course, I had to bathe him as soon as we checked into our room. Rich was laughing at me. I have been pretty calm about the "germ thing" this whole trip, but that really got to me. The airport just seemed dirty, too. ha! The man told our guide that he didn't understand why we came all the way to China to adopt when there are children in America. I don't know what our guide told him--we were too tired for a lengthy discussion. The weather here is just like Texas--hot and humid! This is a big change for us, since we just left Beijing where it was snowing, We are at a 5-star hotel that is very fancy. Right outside the hotel doors are tons of little shops geared for the tourist and adoption crowd. All American families who adopt from China must go through this city to get their child's visa at the American Consulate. Because of this and the historical western influence, many people speak English here quite well. The architecture is totally different here than it was in Beijing. The buildings look more English. It reminds me of being in the deep south--like Georgia or one of the Carolinas. The streets are lined with very old southern style buildings and lots of beautiful trees. There is also a playground with a slide and see-saw that is within walking distance from the hotel. There was nowhere to take Levi to play in Beijing--so this is definitely a plus! The hotel also has an indoor playroom as well. They definitely cater to the children and their families here!
It is nice to be surrounded by American families again, since we were the only family in Beijing from our adoption agency. When we eat our breakfast buffet in the morning, we get to sit all around families who are here for the same reason. It is also nice to not be started at by the Chinese people like we were in Beijing. The people here are more accustomed to seeing American couples with Chinese children. All in all, it has been a pleasurable experience. We are just too tired and homesick to really enjoy it as much as we could. :) We have been in China now for 16 days and have 3 to go--including that very very long flight home with a 4-year old who has ants in his pants! ha! :) Speaking of flying, on the 3-hour flight from Beijing to Guangzhou, Levi did GREAT! He was so well-behaved and so excited to be in an airplane. We played and ate and listened to music. We were all out of activities to entertain him by the end of 3 hours, so I am not sure how we will manage a 12 hour flight from Beijing to San Francisco and then another 3-4 hours to Dallas. UGH!! Please keep us in your prayers. It will be hard on all of us to be on the plane that long especially since we are so ready to be home. Rich and I can't wait to give Theo and Ruthie a big hug and kiss and just hold them. We also can't wait for them to meet their new brother. Hopefully, the reunion will go well.
Today (Sunday), we visited an old temple that has been converted into a folk art museum. We got to see artists finger painting and carving and playing musical instruments. It was really fun! One man showed Levi how to play an instrument they call a Calabash Bamboo Flute, which makes beautiful Chinese-sounding tones. We also saw exquisite embroidery work and jade carvings. The Chinese people can carve elaborate designs into just about anything--including bones, small olive nuts, jade, wood, tile and more. We enjoyed talking to the artists and seeing their amazing talents. After the folk art museum, we toured a porcelain and jade factory. This was neat too, we were just not too "in-to" this since we are ready to be home and Xiaolei was ready to eat lunch and take a nap!
We have enjoyed visiting with other adoptive families while here. We also are enjoying eating at a local restaurant called Lucy's. At this eatery, they serve American food as well as Chinese food. So, we can have the best of both worlds!! :)
On Monday, we will be packing and getting ready to head back to the U.S. On Tuesday, we take the oath with Levi at the American Consulate offices and get his visa. We already got his passport in Beijing. Then, late Tuesday night, we fly to Beijing spend one night and get up early Wednesday morning and fly out to San Fransisco. We have about a hour lay-over there and then finally on to Dallas. We should be home in the late evening on Wednesday--American time. It will feel like Thursday--China time to us.
That is all for now. :)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Beihai Park
On Sunday, we visited Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City--the Emperors' and Empress' Palace. The weather was very cold and windy, so we were freezing. Plus, there were crowds of people visiting these famous tourist attractions, so it was not the best of circumstances; however, the Forbidden City was beautiful. It really was interesting to see such old and exquisitely decorated buildings still standing. Our guide told us that Forbidden City was built in the 1400s. It was incredible to think the Chinese had the ability to build such elaborate buildings that could last for so many hundreds, thousands of years. I was thinking that this was being built even before Columbus sailed to America. Pretty neat! Our guide told us many interesting stories about the emperors and empresses. My favorite part was the empress' building which was pink! I was laughing that even the females back then loved the color pink. Ruthie would have loved this palace! I also really liked the gardens behind the palace. The Chinese brought in these neat rocks that they stacked and made into caves to decorate the garden and to use as rooms. There were also many huge copper pots surrounding the palace area, which our guide told us they discovered and learned that they were filled with water to keep the wood palace from burning down. It was supposed to "protect" the building-but really it was just water to use in case there was a fire.:)
We REALLY had a great time at Beihai Park. This park was built right after the "new China" came into being with Chairman Mao. This is a beautiful park with a lake in the middle where the elderly people of China go each morning to exercise. They do Tai Chi, ribbon dancing, Chinese yo-yo, western-style dancing, singing and more. The people were so generous and nice. They wanted to know all about where we were from and why we had a Chinese boy with us. One elderly man had a silk dragonfly attached to a fishing pole and was flying it around. He told Levi and another little girl that if they sang loudly enough the dragonfly would come down and let the kids touch it. Levi started singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" in Chinese. It was so cute to see him running around chasing the dragonfly and singing. Of course, this drew quite a crowd of people who asked many questions to our guide about us and about Xiaolei. One girl even kept taking pictures of Xiaolei and us. Our guide, Michelle told Levi he as a superstar!
Xiaolei and I really liked watching the women doing the ribbon dancing. It was beautiful! So, of course we joined in. Rich didn't want to join us, so he took pictures. :) Ribbon dancing is not as "manly" as climbing the Great Wall! Ha! (That's another blog entry.... ha!) It was very good exercise for the arms and really difficult to keep the ribbons off the ground. We had such a great time!
We REALLY had a great time at Beihai Park. This park was built right after the "new China" came into being with Chairman Mao. This is a beautiful park with a lake in the middle where the elderly people of China go each morning to exercise. They do Tai Chi, ribbon dancing, Chinese yo-yo, western-style dancing, singing and more. The people were so generous and nice. They wanted to know all about where we were from and why we had a Chinese boy with us. One elderly man had a silk dragonfly attached to a fishing pole and was flying it around. He told Levi and another little girl that if they sang loudly enough the dragonfly would come down and let the kids touch it. Levi started singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" in Chinese. It was so cute to see him running around chasing the dragonfly and singing. Of course, this drew quite a crowd of people who asked many questions to our guide about us and about Xiaolei. One girl even kept taking pictures of Xiaolei and us. Our guide, Michelle told Levi he as a superstar!
Xiaolei and I really liked watching the women doing the ribbon dancing. It was beautiful! So, of course we joined in. Rich didn't want to join us, so he took pictures. :) Ribbon dancing is not as "manly" as climbing the Great Wall! Ha! (That's another blog entry.... ha!) It was very good exercise for the arms and really difficult to keep the ribbons off the ground. We had such a great time!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Valentine's Day
We celebrated Valentine's Day here on Saturday. We discovered that Xiaolei loves chocolate--so this was the perfect holiday for him. :) We got him a heart-shaped box of chocolate, which he devoured. He was kind enough to share one or two with Mamma and Babba! We torn pieces of red tissue paper I had brought for gifts for the orphanage nannies and glued them onto large paper hearts. He loved this activity. He gave one heart to our guide, Michelle and the other heart to our driver. Using a sticker, we hung the other one in our hotel room window. He is very proud of his work. We discovered that he has great fine motor skills in his "good" hand. Levi cut a straight line while I held the paper for him. He has also been cutting up pieces of yellow paper into strips and putting them into our paper bowls with a spoon and having us pretend to eat Chinese noodles. It is so adorable how kids play the same types of game universally! It delights him when we say, "Yum!" and pretend to eat all of our noodles.
In honor of Valentine's Day, I thought I would post some things about Levi that we have learned after knowing him for only 9 days. Here is a list of his what he LOVES and what he DOESN’ＴLOVE：
Xiaolei LOVES:
chocolate and all sweets
hugs and kisses
ice cream
eating
taking a bath
playing with cars and his bus
riding in the adopting agency van and taxi
driving toy cars
McDonald's hamburgers, French Fries
talking to Michelle, our guide (he calls her "sister" in Chinese)
being tickled
having lots of attention by the Chinese girls
dancing--he does the cutest Chinese dance for us on the bed each night!!
Playing with balls, playdo, coloring
PB&J Sandwiches--Must be universal!! ha!
laughing
talking
singing--he sings all the time and has a song for every occasion--like when we were walking in the rain!
Xiaolei DOESN'T LOVE:
getting his hair and face wet
being told "no" (boo in Chinese)
hearing English spoken all the time
lots of noise--like the firecrackers
pizza--We found a Pizza Hut--he only ate a little bit of pizza.
eggs
when he doesn't get his way (throws a little tantrum! ha!)
long walks--asks Babba to carry him
being without food too long--when he is hungry, feed him quickly! ha!! (Another way he takes after Momma!!) LOL
That's all I can think of for now. I am sure the list will continue to grow as we get to know each day by day. He is quite a character and keeps us laughing with all of his antics!!
In honor of Valentine's Day, I thought I would post some things about Levi that we have learned after knowing him for only 9 days. Here is a list of his what he LOVES and what he DOESN’ＴLOVE：
Xiaolei LOVES:
chocolate and all sweets
hugs and kisses
ice cream
eating
taking a bath
playing with cars and his bus
riding in the adopting agency van and taxi
driving toy cars
McDonald's hamburgers, French Fries
talking to Michelle, our guide (he calls her "sister" in Chinese)
being tickled
having lots of attention by the Chinese girls
dancing--he does the cutest Chinese dance for us on the bed each night!!
Playing with balls, playdo, coloring
PB&J Sandwiches--Must be universal!! ha!
laughing
talking
singing--he sings all the time and has a song for every occasion--like when we were walking in the rain!
Xiaolei DOESN'T LOVE:
getting his hair and face wet
being told "no" (boo in Chinese)
hearing English spoken all the time
lots of noise--like the firecrackers
pizza--We found a Pizza Hut--he only ate a little bit of pizza.
eggs
when he doesn't get his way (throws a little tantrum! ha!)
long walks--asks Babba to carry him
being without food too long--when he is hungry, feed him quickly! ha!! (Another way he takes after Momma!!) LOL
That's all I can think of for now. I am sure the list will continue to grow as we get to know each day by day. He is quite a character and keeps us laughing with all of his antics!!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Traditional Chinese Restaurant, Silk Market, Pandas, Ocean Park Aquarium
After the pearl market, our guide took us to a traditional Chinese Beijing Noodle restaurant. It was delicious! The waiters yelled, "Welcome" very loudly and called for you to come sit at their table. It was fun. It made you feel like an em porer when you walked in. Levi thought it was a little noisy. The noodles were great. We actually ate broccoli and fried bananas, too. They were so good. Levi loved the fried bananas especially the ones coated with sugar on top! HA! He posed with one of the waiters. You can see the picture I posted.
The next day, we ventured out to the Silk Market. It was really neat. The tour guide spoke English and was able to tell us and show us about how they make silk. We saw actual silk worms and got to touch their cocoons. We got to feel the silk after they wash it and also got to help the lady workers pull the silk across the stretching table. It was really fascinating to see how they make such beautiful things out of the silk. She told us that from one cocoon, they were able to make a couple of pairs of pajamas, and that real silk cannot be torn apart when pulled--it is very strong and durable. Michelle, our guide talked to Levi about the silk worms. He enjoyed seeing them as well. We bought Theo and Levi traditional silk clothes and Ruthie a beautiful silk dress. We thought we would have a picture taken of them in their traditional Chinese clothing when we return home. The ladies at the silk market totally dotted on Levi. They dressed him in silk outfits and posed for pictures with him. They called him the “Little Emperor.”
After the silk market, we went to the Beijing Zoo to see the famous panda bears. The Chinese word for panda is shoo-ma. Levi kept saying “shooma” over and over again, so at least we learned that new word! ha! The older panda bears just layed still. Levi told our guide that those bears were lazy! He wanted to see the younger ones. There were nine young pandas outside playing in the bamboo leaves. They were absolutely adorable. The pandas are really the highlight of the zoo, as there were not really many other animals. They did have an impressive collection of birds including the peacock. We got to see one with its feathes fanned open. It was simply breathtaking! The colors on this bird were brilliant. My pictures cannot do it justice. These peacocks were much bigger than any I have ever seen in the U.S.
Today is already Saturday for us. We took Xiaolei without our guide to the aquarium called Ocean Park. He really loves fish. There was a really long tube that you ride through on a flat escalator. You are surrounded by water, fish, coral, mermaids, divers, etc. It was beautiful and made you feel like you were underwater. I did not like being in this tube because I began to feel claustrophobic. The Chinese people like to crowd into very small places. I began to feel hot and uncomfortable and thought the tunnel ride would never end! ha!
Today we celebrate Valentine's Day—a day before you back in the States. So, in advance, we wish you a fun day full of love and blessings!
The next day, we ventured out to the Silk Market. It was really neat. The tour guide spoke English and was able to tell us and show us about how they make silk. We saw actual silk worms and got to touch their cocoons. We got to feel the silk after they wash it and also got to help the lady workers pull the silk across the stretching table. It was really fascinating to see how they make such beautiful things out of the silk. She told us that from one cocoon, they were able to make a couple of pairs of pajamas, and that real silk cannot be torn apart when pulled--it is very strong and durable. Michelle, our guide talked to Levi about the silk worms. He enjoyed seeing them as well. We bought Theo and Levi traditional silk clothes and Ruthie a beautiful silk dress. We thought we would have a picture taken of them in their traditional Chinese clothing when we return home. The ladies at the silk market totally dotted on Levi. They dressed him in silk outfits and posed for pictures with him. They called him the “Little Emperor.”
After the silk market, we went to the Beijing Zoo to see the famous panda bears. The Chinese word for panda is shoo-ma. Levi kept saying “shooma” over and over again, so at least we learned that new word! ha! The older panda bears just layed still. Levi told our guide that those bears were lazy! He wanted to see the younger ones. There were nine young pandas outside playing in the bamboo leaves. They were absolutely adorable. The pandas are really the highlight of the zoo, as there were not really many other animals. They did have an impressive collection of birds including the peacock. We got to see one with its feathes fanned open. It was simply breathtaking! The colors on this bird were brilliant. My pictures cannot do it justice. These peacocks were much bigger than any I have ever seen in the U.S.
Today is already Saturday for us. We took Xiaolei without our guide to the aquarium called Ocean Park. He really loves fish. There was a really long tube that you ride through on a flat escalator. You are surrounded by water, fish, coral, mermaids, divers, etc. It was beautiful and made you feel like you were underwater. I did not like being in this tube because I began to feel claustrophobic. The Chinese people like to crowd into very small places. I began to feel hot and uncomfortable and thought the tunnel ride would never end! ha!
Today we celebrate Valentine's Day—a day before you back in the States. So, in advance, we wish you a fun day full of love and blessings!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Our Chinese Shopping Experiences
Well the day before yesterday, we ventured out on our own without our guide. We went shopping at the French version of Walmart called Carrefour. Rich described it as a combination of IKEA and Walmart-huge and EXTREMELY crowded. We were able to find some American type foods there, though. We bought peanut butter and jelly and bread. We just decided to make sandwiches in the room because our tummies and wallet can't handle eating out everyday 3 times a day for almost 3 weeks. We do have a western style breakfast buffet each morning included in our hotel cost. It is wonderful--a mixture of Chinese food and American foods like pancakes and bacon and eggs. Xiaolei eats everything. He loves watermelon, pears, and bread. He has eaten bacon and egg rolls for breakfast too. Since it is difficult for us to eat veggies the rest of the day, we get them at breakfast. Xiaolei likes the cabbage and carrots. He is used to eating con gee (watered down rice) in the orphanage--but now he would rather eat all the other foods. He saves his con gee for last. But--he does eat it. He doesn't waste one morsel. Too funny! He will eat just about anything. His little tummy has been holding up well.
Back to the Walmart store story...Rich and I just had to laugh our way through this one. It was so hot and crowded and simply overwhelming. Xiaolei was perfectly behaved and sat in the cart. When we entered the store, an elderly woman gave him a balloon. When we left the store, she was waiting for us and wanted to help us, but we didn't know what she was saying. Another Chinese woman came up and helped take Xiaolei out of the cart. It was very nice--just a little uncomfortable being surrounded by people you don't understand. ha! On the taxi ride home, the driver got into a standstill with 3 other cars when he was trying to turn into our hotel parking lot. All of the cars were jammed and no one would move. They all just sat there honking there horns and yelling at each other. Finally, a guard came over to remedy the situation. It was hilarious. They were so impatient and no one was willing to move first. :) We were able to purchase crayons, a ball, some very inexpensive blocks, and playdough for Levi to play with in the hotel room. He loves his blocks and crayons! He has a play a game with the ball where he tells us where to stand by tapping his foot on the floor. Then, he points to us telling us whose turn it is to throw the ball and which direction to through it in. He is bossy little thing! ha!!
Yesterday morning, our guide took us to the pearl market and then to eat at a local Chinese-Beijing noodle restaurant. We had a fantastic day. The pearl market was so much fun. All the people were yelling, "Hey Lady" as we walked buy their counters. They were telling us to buy their goods. You are supposed to bargain with them, so this was right up my alley! Rich just laughed at me. I told them too much and walked away, and then the price fell very dramatically! Ha! It was fun to watch the European businessmen haggle as well. They acted insulted until the price was low enough.:) We were able to buy Xiaolei a hand carved stamp with his Chinese and American name on it and some souvenir chopsticks. We also found Theo some really cool magnetic rocks that make a cricket sound when you throw them up and they click together. For Ruthie, we found a little Chinese tea set.
The people at the market were so sweet to Levi. The man who carved his stamp for him, gave him food to eat and and talked to Levi for a long time. Everywhere we go people give Levi things--balloons, food, etc. I posted pictures of Levi with the man who carved his stamp and with the lady at the pearl market.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Buddhist Temple and Park
This morning we toured a Buddhist Temple. It was beautiful architecture and an important part of the Chinese culture, but I have to say that it was sad to see so many lost people bowing down at feet of Buddha instead of at the feet of Jesus. Our guide said that 80 percent of people in China are Buddhist. We saw the largest Buddha in China. It was huge! Levi told the guide that he was worried the statue would fall down. :)
Levi was very good at the temple. He walked along looking at everything and was quiet. Then, our guide took us to a children's park. Levi had a great time riding in the bumper cars with Daddy. It was hilarious to see Rich try to get in one of those cars. The adult Chinese people--like our guide--had no problem squeezing in--but us big Americans had a little more trouble. ha!! Rich looked like he was in a clown car. :) See pictures. Levi got on the trampoline, but was too scared to jump. He also rode a little train, but after going around and around several times, he began to panic and asked in a pleading voice to get him off. :) Thankfully our guide was with us to help us understand what he was saying. Although, I knew he wanted off the train. Some facial expressions are universal! :) The language barrier is at times very frustrating for us as well as for Levi. It is difficult to not understand him or to not be able to explain things to him. We use a lot of sign language and pantomime when talking. It is like playing charades some days. :)
Levi is taking a nap, so I am going to go rest as well.
More later.....
Levi was very good at the temple. He walked along looking at everything and was quiet. Then, our guide took us to a children's park. Levi had a great time riding in the bumper cars with Daddy. It was hilarious to see Rich try to get in one of those cars. The adult Chinese people--like our guide--had no problem squeezing in--but us big Americans had a little more trouble. ha!! Rich looked like he was in a clown car. :) See pictures. Levi got on the trampoline, but was too scared to jump. He also rode a little train, but after going around and around several times, he began to panic and asked in a pleading voice to get him off. :) Thankfully our guide was with us to help us understand what he was saying. Although, I knew he wanted off the train. Some facial expressions are universal! :) The language barrier is at times very frustrating for us as well as for Levi. It is difficult to not understand him or to not be able to explain things to him. We use a lot of sign language and pantomime when talking. It is like playing charades some days. :)
Levi is taking a nap, so I am going to go rest as well.
More later.....
Fun Dazzle
Today we had a change of plans. Instead of going shopping, we had to rush back to the Civil Affairs Office to finish up paperwork. Then, it was off to the Notarization Office to take Xiaolei's passport picture and apply for his passport. Now all of the paperwork is done for Beijing, so now we just wait for his passport for many days. Then, we fly to Guanghzou to do more paperwork at the American Consulate. Then, back to Beijing and onto Dallas!
Now the sightseeing tours begin. Beginning on Wednesday--today for our time, we will visit the usual tourist sites. I will send pictures and updates of where we go each day. :)
After the paperwork took all morning and Levi had a nap, we took him to a place called Fun Dazzle. It is a spot where locals take their children to play. It is kindof like a really big McDonalds or Chick-Fil-A indoor play area. Levi was apprehensive at first. I think he might have been a little overwhelmed with all the toys. He did not want to go down the slide, but then did eventually go down a little one later on. We realized today for the first time how some things will be more challenging for Levi. For example, he cannot pull up the slide or climb because he cannot use his right hand/arm to help him pull up. His right arm was almost limp, and he just kindof slid on his belly through the tunnels like a soldier in the trenches. He was very excited to play and didn't seem to be bothered about his lack of arm strength in the least little bit. His favorite toy was a little toy roller coaster that he had Babba-Rich put him on over and over and over again! He got excited and a little loud while playing. We had to tell him to "Shhh". :) He shared a ball with another boy. Levi gave the boy a ball and said something to which the boy threw the ball down the slide. They did it over and over again laughing. He really liked the other children--especially babies! He had a wonderful time. It was an adventure for us as well. We hailed a taxi on our own, showed the driver the translated card that told the driver where we wanted to go, and we survived the ride and actually ended up back at the hotel. It was really very easy. Levi did not want to get into the taxi at first. He was scared, as this is not the usual van we have been riding in each day provided by our adoption agency. We assured him he was safe (as safe as you can be in a taxi-ha!), he sat on my lap and was okay then.
When we went to eat dinner, Levi wanted to try getting on the escalator by himself. He had been scared and always asked Rich to hold him. He was brave and did it all by himself with a little support from Momma and Babba. He was thrilled. Now we know he isn't terrified of heights. He just didn't know about escalators.
At the Civil Affairs office this morning, Levi saw one of his little friends who was in the same group/class with him at the orphanage. She and apparently one other little girl were being adopted today as well. I think knowing this helped all of the children adjust better and be happy for each other. The children colored together while we signed and waited for paperwork. The little girl was very shy--not like Levi. Ha! He talks to everyone everywhere we go. We never know what he is saying. Most people smile, but some people give us weird looks. We wonder what he is saying. :) You never know with a 4-year old! ha!
We get many stares on the street because people are interested to know why an American family has a Chinese boy with them. Our guide gave us an explanation card written in Mandarin explaining that we had adopted Levi and that we love him and will take good care of him. We haven't had to show anyone yet. We do feel a little bit uncomfortable walking down the street with Levi in hand with all the stares, but we just smile back and they usually smile then too. I think the people are just curious.
Levi has figured out how to use the western potty. He even tells me "Momma potty" now when he has to go. He is very good about repeating words in English to us and trying to learn them. He likes to push the elevator button and knows exactly where our room is. We decided that he must think the hotel is his new home. Instead of the cute children's story "Eloise at the Plaza"--we say he is "Xiaolei at the Plaza" (We are in the Poly Plaza Hotel). We'll have to write a book about his adventures at the plaza when we come home. ha! He teases us by calling me "Babba" and Rich "Momma", which he just cracks up over. He thinks this is hysterically funny. He is so witty!
Xiaolei LOVES to sing. He sings all the time--while playing, walking (except when eating). He sings familiar songs like "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". When we sang it back to him in English, he loved it. Now he says "twinkle, twinkle" and the rest of the song in Chinese. :)
At bedtime, he had us play our nightly game of cars and bus on the bed where he directed us on what to do. We figured the game out a little better tonight which made him happier. It is a sweet time playing with him each day. EVERY day is full of new discoveries for him, and it is so fun to watch and be a part of his new life.
We have been reading the children's Bible before bedtime and talking about Jesus. He is beginning to sing the "B-i-b-l-e" song with us. It is so cute. Last night I told him that Jesus loves Momma, Jesus loved Babba, and Jesus loves Xiaolei. He repeated me and grinned a huge grin. We are so happy that God found a forever family for this little boy. He is going to have a happy and successful life--but most importantly, we pray that he will come to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior.
Now the sightseeing tours begin. Beginning on Wednesday--today for our time, we will visit the usual tourist sites. I will send pictures and updates of where we go each day. :)
After the paperwork took all morning and Levi had a nap, we took him to a place called Fun Dazzle. It is a spot where locals take their children to play. It is kindof like a really big McDonalds or Chick-Fil-A indoor play area. Levi was apprehensive at first. I think he might have been a little overwhelmed with all the toys. He did not want to go down the slide, but then did eventually go down a little one later on. We realized today for the first time how some things will be more challenging for Levi. For example, he cannot pull up the slide or climb because he cannot use his right hand/arm to help him pull up. His right arm was almost limp, and he just kindof slid on his belly through the tunnels like a soldier in the trenches. He was very excited to play and didn't seem to be bothered about his lack of arm strength in the least little bit. His favorite toy was a little toy roller coaster that he had Babba-Rich put him on over and over and over again! He got excited and a little loud while playing. We had to tell him to "Shhh". :) He shared a ball with another boy. Levi gave the boy a ball and said something to which the boy threw the ball down the slide. They did it over and over again laughing. He really liked the other children--especially babies! He had a wonderful time. It was an adventure for us as well. We hailed a taxi on our own, showed the driver the translated card that told the driver where we wanted to go, and we survived the ride and actually ended up back at the hotel. It was really very easy. Levi did not want to get into the taxi at first. He was scared, as this is not the usual van we have been riding in each day provided by our adoption agency. We assured him he was safe (as safe as you can be in a taxi-ha!), he sat on my lap and was okay then.
When we went to eat dinner, Levi wanted to try getting on the escalator by himself. He had been scared and always asked Rich to hold him. He was brave and did it all by himself with a little support from Momma and Babba. He was thrilled. Now we know he isn't terrified of heights. He just didn't know about escalators.
At the Civil Affairs office this morning, Levi saw one of his little friends who was in the same group/class with him at the orphanage. She and apparently one other little girl were being adopted today as well. I think knowing this helped all of the children adjust better and be happy for each other. The children colored together while we signed and waited for paperwork. The little girl was very shy--not like Levi. Ha! He talks to everyone everywhere we go. We never know what he is saying. Most people smile, but some people give us weird looks. We wonder what he is saying. :) You never know with a 4-year old! ha!
We get many stares on the street because people are interested to know why an American family has a Chinese boy with them. Our guide gave us an explanation card written in Mandarin explaining that we had adopted Levi and that we love him and will take good care of him. We haven't had to show anyone yet. We do feel a little bit uncomfortable walking down the street with Levi in hand with all the stares, but we just smile back and they usually smile then too. I think the people are just curious.
Levi has figured out how to use the western potty. He even tells me "Momma potty" now when he has to go. He is very good about repeating words in English to us and trying to learn them. He likes to push the elevator button and knows exactly where our room is. We decided that he must think the hotel is his new home. Instead of the cute children's story "Eloise at the Plaza"--we say he is "Xiaolei at the Plaza" (We are in the Poly Plaza Hotel). We'll have to write a book about his adventures at the plaza when we come home. ha! He teases us by calling me "Babba" and Rich "Momma", which he just cracks up over. He thinks this is hysterically funny. He is so witty!
Xiaolei LOVES to sing. He sings all the time--while playing, walking (except when eating). He sings familiar songs like "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". When we sang it back to him in English, he loved it. Now he says "twinkle, twinkle" and the rest of the song in Chinese. :)
At bedtime, he had us play our nightly game of cars and bus on the bed where he directed us on what to do. We figured the game out a little better tonight which made him happier. It is a sweet time playing with him each day. EVERY day is full of new discoveries for him, and it is so fun to watch and be a part of his new life.
We have been reading the children's Bible before bedtime and talking about Jesus. He is beginning to sing the "B-i-b-l-e" song with us. It is so cute. Last night I told him that Jesus loves Momma, Jesus loved Babba, and Jesus loves Xiaolei. He repeated me and grinned a huge grin. We are so happy that God found a forever family for this little boy. He is going to have a happy and successful life--but most importantly, we pray that he will come to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Day 2 with Xiaolei
This morning we went to the Office of Civil Affairs to make the adoption final. Levi is officially ours!
Xiaolei made tremendous strides today--he took a nap after insisting that he didn't need one. Most importantly, he took a bath and let me dress him this morning and again before bedtime. He also is now taking off his shoes to sit on the bed. He even walked around in just socks tonight. Yesterday he absolutely refused to take off his shoes.
I am constantly amazed at the bravery of this little boy. He has not shed a tear yet--for what he left behind. He seems very comfortable and happy with us as his parents. We are enjoying a peaceful time of bonding. Tonight Rich, Levi, and I sat on the bed and played with his cars and bus. He was talking his little heart out trying to teach us how to play a game. We did our best but didn't understand much if any of what he was saying in Mandarin Chinese. :) He did not get frustrated with us--he just kept explaining it over and over again and laughed along the way. He told the guide that Ba-Ba is studying because Rich is always looking in his Chinese-English book for words and phrases. Levi laughs at his daddy and tries to help him learn some new Chinese words. He is so funny! He keeps us in stitches laughing all day long.
The driving in China is a little scary. The people are constantly honking at each other and driving in each other's lanes. They drive very close together and apparently pedestrians do not have the right-of-way here. ha!!
We tried some Chinese food today. It was very delicious. So far Rich and I have survived. Levi is eating every morsel put in front of him. He literally licks his plate clean. He doesn't talk when he eats--eating is very serious business. When he is finished eating, he is exceedingly happy! Boy do I relate to that! Again, another way he truly is our child! Ha!!:)
I posted a picture of him eating with his chopsticks. It is so cute. There is a picture of him taking his first bath tonight with his rubber duckies. He liked to put soap on the ducks and clean them.
If you were listening in to Beijing right now it would sound as if we were under attack---they have been shooting fireworks day and night for Chinese New Year. This is the last night they can shoot them off. It is soooooooo loud--at least we know Levi can sleep through thunderstorms now. HA! As I type, Levi is sound asleep in the bed. He went to bed without any problems tonight. He is such a sweet sweet child!!!
Gotta go get some sleep even if it is noisy outside our window with the fireworks.
Have a blessed day! God is so good!!!
Xiaolei made tremendous strides today--he took a nap after insisting that he didn't need one. Most importantly, he took a bath and let me dress him this morning and again before bedtime. He also is now taking off his shoes to sit on the bed. He even walked around in just socks tonight. Yesterday he absolutely refused to take off his shoes.
I am constantly amazed at the bravery of this little boy. He has not shed a tear yet--for what he left behind. He seems very comfortable and happy with us as his parents. We are enjoying a peaceful time of bonding. Tonight Rich, Levi, and I sat on the bed and played with his cars and bus. He was talking his little heart out trying to teach us how to play a game. We did our best but didn't understand much if any of what he was saying in Mandarin Chinese. :) He did not get frustrated with us--he just kept explaining it over and over again and laughed along the way. He told the guide that Ba-Ba is studying because Rich is always looking in his Chinese-English book for words and phrases. Levi laughs at his daddy and tries to help him learn some new Chinese words. He is so funny! He keeps us in stitches laughing all day long.
The driving in China is a little scary. The people are constantly honking at each other and driving in each other's lanes. They drive very close together and apparently pedestrians do not have the right-of-way here. ha!!
We tried some Chinese food today. It was very delicious. So far Rich and I have survived. Levi is eating every morsel put in front of him. He literally licks his plate clean. He doesn't talk when he eats--eating is very serious business. When he is finished eating, he is exceedingly happy! Boy do I relate to that! Again, another way he truly is our child! Ha!!:)
I posted a picture of him eating with his chopsticks. It is so cute. There is a picture of him taking his first bath tonight with his rubber duckies. He liked to put soap on the ducks and clean them.
If you were listening in to Beijing right now it would sound as if we were under attack---they have been shooting fireworks day and night for Chinese New Year. This is the last night they can shoot them off. It is soooooooo loud--at least we know Levi can sleep through thunderstorms now. HA! As I type, Levi is sound asleep in the bed. He went to bed without any problems tonight. He is such a sweet sweet child!!!
Gotta go get some sleep even if it is noisy outside our window with the fireworks.
Have a blessed day! God is so good!!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
GOTCHA DAY
We have our son--Levi Xiaolei Cook! Sunday was his "Gotcha Day" where we went to the orphanage to pick him up. Everything went so smoothly! We could not have asked for a better transition. Levi is the sweetest and most well-behaved child! He immediately went to us saying "Ma-Ma" and "Ba-Ba" (for Daddy). The orphanage prepared him well--he knew all of the people in the photo album went sent him a few weeks ago. He pointed to Theo and Ruthie and said "Brother" and "Sister" in Chinese. He also knew Grandma and Grandpa. We sent him a picture of our backyard--he likes the slide. He can't wait to play there.
We call him Xiaolei for now, and he actually understands us when we say his name. He LOVES to sing and talk. He will really enjoy talking to Ruthie! HA! Those two will probably talk non-stop. On the ride back to the hotel, he was fascinated with the many buses and cars on the road. He had been on a bus once when the Nanny took him to the doctor. The bus number he rode on was 973--so EVERY bus he saw, he would yell out in Chinese "973!!". Too cute!
He also LOVES to eat. He ate up the Cheerios I brought for him. Plus, when we were getting our picture taken at the photo shop, he recognized ice cream on a stick across the street at a local vendor and wanted to go. We told him he could have ice cream after dinner. So, at 4:00 in the afternoon, he said he wanted to eat dinner. He figured out if he ate dinner now, he could have ice cream sooner. Boy, will he ever fit into our family well! God truly hand-picked this little boy to be our son. He ate an entire McDonald's hamburger, French Fries, and an entire bottle of water, cookies from the orphanage, Cheerios and ice cream. He was so happy after eating.
Rich and I played with Xiaolei in the hotel room until bedtime. We bought him a bus at the toy store. He loves his bus and the matchbox cars Theo sent for him. He also loves playing with stickers and paper airplanes made by Daddy. Our room has a great view of the city--so Xiaolei stands up on a chair and looks out talking about the cars and buses. He is also ticklish on his tummy and has a great belly laugh! He is truly a very happy and brave little boy. He does not fear us at all. The only thing that frightened his was the escalator. He is just like me--his Mommy and Grandma--we don't like those things either. Daddy "Ba-Ba" held him while on the escalator, and then it was okay.
The orphanage told us that he would go to bed when we told him. Well, it was not quite that simple . (It never is, is it? ha!) He refuses to take off his clothing or shoes. Finally our guide translated for him, and he took off his shoes and climbed into bed. He would not take a bath or take off those clothes. Our guide, Michelle, said this is very common. It will take him a few days to adjust. We may be wearing the same clothes for a few days--ha! :) Shoo-stinky!
We laid down with him, and eventually he went to sleep. No fussing. He tried to get out of bed and when I put him back down he tried to pinch me. I firmly told him,, "No" in English, and he got the message. He stayed in bed laying there smiling at me. He tossed and turned but mostly slept well for his first night. He sucks his first two fingers to settle himself down. It is so sweet. He obeys immediately. He is a good boy. The people at the orphanage said that he really listens to his Nannies and obeys. They kept telling me that he is a good boy. They really loved him and took good care of him at the orphanage.
I posted pictures of Levi Xiaolei.
Thank you for your prayers. God has heard and answered and has helped this little boy to not be as fearful as others. He is truly very brave and very special and sweet!! We are definitely smitten with our little guy. He is just so precious! We are thankful God led us to this sweet child.
We call him Xiaolei for now, and he actually understands us when we say his name. He LOVES to sing and talk. He will really enjoy talking to Ruthie! HA! Those two will probably talk non-stop. On the ride back to the hotel, he was fascinated with the many buses and cars on the road. He had been on a bus once when the Nanny took him to the doctor. The bus number he rode on was 973--so EVERY bus he saw, he would yell out in Chinese "973!!". Too cute!
He also LOVES to eat. He ate up the Cheerios I brought for him. Plus, when we were getting our picture taken at the photo shop, he recognized ice cream on a stick across the street at a local vendor and wanted to go. We told him he could have ice cream after dinner. So, at 4:00 in the afternoon, he said he wanted to eat dinner. He figured out if he ate dinner now, he could have ice cream sooner. Boy, will he ever fit into our family well! God truly hand-picked this little boy to be our son. He ate an entire McDonald's hamburger, French Fries, and an entire bottle of water, cookies from the orphanage, Cheerios and ice cream. He was so happy after eating.
Rich and I played with Xiaolei in the hotel room until bedtime. We bought him a bus at the toy store. He loves his bus and the matchbox cars Theo sent for him. He also loves playing with stickers and paper airplanes made by Daddy. Our room has a great view of the city--so Xiaolei stands up on a chair and looks out talking about the cars and buses. He is also ticklish on his tummy and has a great belly laugh! He is truly a very happy and brave little boy. He does not fear us at all. The only thing that frightened his was the escalator. He is just like me--his Mommy and Grandma--we don't like those things either. Daddy "Ba-Ba" held him while on the escalator, and then it was okay.
The orphanage told us that he would go to bed when we told him. Well, it was not quite that simple . (It never is, is it? ha!) He refuses to take off his clothing or shoes. Finally our guide translated for him, and he took off his shoes and climbed into bed. He would not take a bath or take off those clothes. Our guide, Michelle, said this is very common. It will take him a few days to adjust. We may be wearing the same clothes for a few days--ha! :) Shoo-stinky!
We laid down with him, and eventually he went to sleep. No fussing. He tried to get out of bed and when I put him back down he tried to pinch me. I firmly told him,, "No" in English, and he got the message. He stayed in bed laying there smiling at me. He tossed and turned but mostly slept well for his first night. He sucks his first two fingers to settle himself down. It is so sweet. He obeys immediately. He is a good boy. The people at the orphanage said that he really listens to his Nannies and obeys. They kept telling me that he is a good boy. They really loved him and took good care of him at the orphanage.
I posted pictures of Levi Xiaolei.
Thank you for your prayers. God has heard and answered and has helped this little boy to not be as fearful as others. He is truly very brave and very special and sweet!! We are definitely smitten with our little guy. He is just so precious! We are thankful God led us to this sweet child.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
We are in China!
We are in our hotel room at the Poly Plaza in Beijing. We had a good flight. No problems only a minor detour to Chicago instead of San Francisco due to mechanical problems. We're glad God protected us from that flight! Chicago was beautiful with snow on the ground. We flew over the North Pole and back down to Beijing. It was an interesting route! You can tell the kids we waved at Santa! We arrived in China at 3:30 pm China time on Saturday. It is now Sunday morning in China. We are going to eat breakfast and then get ready to meet Levi this afternoon. Wow! Everything is moving so fast!
That's all for now. More later after we have what is known as "Gotcha Day!"--when we meet Levi. We sign paperwork on Monday.
Love to all.....
That's all for now. More later after we have what is known as "Gotcha Day!"--when we meet Levi. We sign paperwork on Monday.
Love to all.....
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Our Bags Are Packed!
Our bags are packed, and we're ready to go! The kids safely made it to G'Ma and G'Pa's house. They are having a great time. Rich and I finished packing tonight. Now we are going to catch a few zzzzz's before our early wake up call to the airport.
We received our updated Itinerary today and learned that we will be arriving in Beijing on Saturday afternoon and on Sunday afternoon, we will go to the orphanage to meet Levi! SUNDAY!! Wow! We can't believe we will see our little guy on Sunday.
Please continue to pray for safe travels as we fly to Beijing and for a smooth first meeting with Levi (Xiaolei).
Next stop...Beijing! See you in China!!
We received our updated Itinerary today and learned that we will be arriving in Beijing on Saturday afternoon and on Sunday afternoon, we will go to the orphanage to meet Levi! SUNDAY!! Wow! We can't believe we will see our little guy on Sunday.
Please continue to pray for safe travels as we fly to Beijing and for a smooth first meeting with Levi (Xiaolei).
Next stop...Beijing! See you in China!!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
We Leave on Friday!
Well, it is official. We leave this Friday--February 6th! We spent much of the weekend cleaning and packing and preparing. We also took time to be with Theo and Ruthie. We slept in, had tickle-fights, and just laughed and talked together. Rich also took the time to take the kids on a bike ride.
Superbowl? What Superbowl? Ha! We didn't even realize this was Superbowl weekend; although Rich did turn on the TV for a few minutes just to check the score. :)
We decided that we would push ourselves to get everything done because we could sleep on the airplane for about oh....16 hours! I know Rich will sleep well....I hope I can too. I don't usually relax that well on airplanes. At least it will be a quiet and calm time of just sitting--something I don't get to experience very often with a 6-year old and a 4-year old!
Back to packing.....
Superbowl? What Superbowl? Ha! We didn't even realize this was Superbowl weekend; although Rich did turn on the TV for a few minutes just to check the score. :)
We decided that we would push ourselves to get everything done because we could sleep on the airplane for about oh....16 hours! I know Rich will sleep well....I hope I can too. I don't usually relax that well on airplanes. At least it will be a quiet and calm time of just sitting--something I don't get to experience very often with a 6-year old and a 4-year old!
Back to packing.....
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