little missy with her hair clip and bunny slippers
Jie Jie & Mei Mei The next big girl band!!
Our welcome homeFaith hasn't quite got the hang of this toy yet..
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
A few pics
little missy with her hair clip and bunny slippers Jie Jie & Mei Mei The next big girl band!! Our welcome homeFaith hasn't quite got the hang of this toy yet..
Monday, November 17, 2008
More Pics to come
Hey,
Several people have asked Janet for more pictures of Faith. We will post some of Faith with the kids tomorrow. We have been so tired we haven't picked up the camera.
Faith is doing really well. She is adjusting to the time difference and smiling a lot. It's Janet and I that are having the issues and being grumpy. Well ok, Janet is having issues with me be grumpy... whatever.
I took Jake, Noah and Joylin to the movies tonight (which I fell asleep in). When we arrived home Faith looked up, out stretched her arms and came quickly to me with a big smile. It was such a great feeling. I can't tell you how wonderful that moment was.
Faith thinks Jake and Noah are pretty funny but has been slow to warm to Joylin. Much to the disappointment of Joylin. Poor baby just wants her Mei Mei to love her. She has had her feelings hurt several times. It's hard to make a 5 year old understand whats going on. Then add mom having to split her time and it makes it even worse. Joylin and I have been spending more time together to help her during this transition. We were expecting issues, so it's not a surprise. We are just looking forward to Faith drawing closer to Joylin and that relationship beginning.
Faith isn't quite sure about Murphy and Minnie. Being that they are 4 times her size that's understandable. They are being very gentle but they are just overwhelming. Obviously they aren't allowed any where near her without us right there. Faith thinks Mickey is cool and has taken a liking to tugging on his ears. Mickey's not to sure about Faith... :)
Thanks for all your prayers before we left China. I got pretty sick on Thursday night and was in the bathroom Saturday morning at 4am very worried. We left for the airport at 5:50.
I was prepared for a nightmare trip home, but I began to feel better and didn't have any real problems during the trip!! But I did again yesterday after we got home. Everyone that got this in China was down for the count for 24 hours. I got it, it stopped for the trip home, then came back. Thanks for the prayers!!
We started our trip home at the Guangzhou airport at 6:30am Saturday. There was some issue at check in that we never really understood. There was a lot of Chinese being spoken and some irritated facial expressions. After about 35 minutes at the counter we finally got checked in only to find that one bag was overweight by 6 pounds. I said I'd pay an overage fee but that apparently wasn't an option. So with about 40 people behind us in line (actually being very patient) I jumped over the luggage counter and started pulling stuff out of the bag looking at the young lady every few minutes to have her motion "more, more". Finally reaching the goal I looked up realizing that I had a pile of underwear up on the counter... :( Needless to say I was embarrassed and made a quick exit.
Four hour flight to Korea then a six hour lay over went well. Faith did great. There was a really nice children's play area right by our gate so we spent a lot of the six hours in there playing. We then left for Atlanta on a 14 hour flight. Faith again did great. She slept for about 10 hours which made things much easier. Again thanks for all the prayers, it could have been awful. We've heard stories.
So here we are, a family of 6. Four kids, wow. Janet is anxious, but will do wonderfully. I'm probably a bit to caviler about it, but will still get the job done. So what now? We love every minute we have with four of the most beautiful children you will every see. And who knows..... our dinning room table can expand to sit 14. :)
Thanks for taking the time to share this with us. It has meant a lot to us knowing our friends love us and care about what is going on in the Lescalleet household. Give us a few weeks to get adjusted then come see us.
Love,
Tim
Several people have asked Janet for more pictures of Faith. We will post some of Faith with the kids tomorrow. We have been so tired we haven't picked up the camera.
Faith is doing really well. She is adjusting to the time difference and smiling a lot. It's Janet and I that are having the issues and being grumpy. Well ok, Janet is having issues with me be grumpy... whatever.
I took Jake, Noah and Joylin to the movies tonight (which I fell asleep in). When we arrived home Faith looked up, out stretched her arms and came quickly to me with a big smile. It was such a great feeling. I can't tell you how wonderful that moment was.
Faith thinks Jake and Noah are pretty funny but has been slow to warm to Joylin. Much to the disappointment of Joylin. Poor baby just wants her Mei Mei to love her. She has had her feelings hurt several times. It's hard to make a 5 year old understand whats going on. Then add mom having to split her time and it makes it even worse. Joylin and I have been spending more time together to help her during this transition. We were expecting issues, so it's not a surprise. We are just looking forward to Faith drawing closer to Joylin and that relationship beginning.
Faith isn't quite sure about Murphy and Minnie. Being that they are 4 times her size that's understandable. They are being very gentle but they are just overwhelming. Obviously they aren't allowed any where near her without us right there. Faith thinks Mickey is cool and has taken a liking to tugging on his ears. Mickey's not to sure about Faith... :)
Thanks for all your prayers before we left China. I got pretty sick on Thursday night and was in the bathroom Saturday morning at 4am very worried. We left for the airport at 5:50.
I was prepared for a nightmare trip home, but I began to feel better and didn't have any real problems during the trip!! But I did again yesterday after we got home. Everyone that got this in China was down for the count for 24 hours. I got it, it stopped for the trip home, then came back. Thanks for the prayers!!
We started our trip home at the Guangzhou airport at 6:30am Saturday. There was some issue at check in that we never really understood. There was a lot of Chinese being spoken and some irritated facial expressions. After about 35 minutes at the counter we finally got checked in only to find that one bag was overweight by 6 pounds. I said I'd pay an overage fee but that apparently wasn't an option. So with about 40 people behind us in line (actually being very patient) I jumped over the luggage counter and started pulling stuff out of the bag looking at the young lady every few minutes to have her motion "more, more". Finally reaching the goal I looked up realizing that I had a pile of underwear up on the counter... :( Needless to say I was embarrassed and made a quick exit.
Four hour flight to Korea then a six hour lay over went well. Faith did great. There was a really nice children's play area right by our gate so we spent a lot of the six hours in there playing. We then left for Atlanta on a 14 hour flight. Faith again did great. She slept for about 10 hours which made things much easier. Again thanks for all the prayers, it could have been awful. We've heard stories.
So here we are, a family of 6. Four kids, wow. Janet is anxious, but will do wonderfully. I'm probably a bit to caviler about it, but will still get the job done. So what now? We love every minute we have with four of the most beautiful children you will every see. And who knows..... our dinning room table can expand to sit 14. :)
Thanks for taking the time to share this with us. It has meant a lot to us knowing our friends love us and care about what is going on in the Lescalleet household. Give us a few weeks to get adjusted then come see us.
Love,
Tim
Sunday, November 16, 2008
We're Home!!!!
Hey everyone,
We made is safely. We got home at about 11 pm on Sat night. We were greeted with a very tired but excited family.
We are so happy to be home. We are acclimating to the new time zone so we are sleeping at strange times. I hope it won't take more than a week to get back to normal.
Thanks again for all your prayers and great comments. Please continue to pray for us as we transition and Faith learns her new language.
God bless,
Janet
We made is safely. We got home at about 11 pm on Sat night. We were greeted with a very tired but excited family.
We are so happy to be home. We are acclimating to the new time zone so we are sleeping at strange times. I hope it won't take more than a week to get back to normal.
Thanks again for all your prayers and great comments. Please continue to pray for us as we transition and Faith learns her new language.
God bless,
Janet
Friday, November 14, 2008
Leaving China today
Greetings from the wonderful bustling China,
This will be our last post while in the great country!
As we are packing our last few things and boiling our last pot of water (did Tim mention you can't drink the water here?) I realize that I have so many emotions banging around in my heart and my head I can barely sort through them. A few I can identify easily.
The first is of unspeakable joy. How in the world did I get to be the wife and mom of such wonderful people? As Tim has demonstrated to you the past two weeks he is an awesome man, husband and daddy. Our kids are the best. Some of you know that I have never been that much of a kid person. I have always liked them OK but kids have not been my passion. I never babysat, well the few times I did I didn't enjoy it very much. But now? Oh man, I am hooked and it took my precious children to show me the thrill of knowing a child. The new little one in our family is going to fit right in she has brought so much joy and laughter already and she hasn't even met the majority of the family. How did God pick me? How did he know I would love motherhood so much? Well, that's easy, He's God.
I am also feeling extreme FEAR! Just typing these words has my stomach in knots. How in the world am I going to juggle all that has to be done? Our precious Faith will need 24/7 nurturing and care to ensure bonding and attachment. We are well on our way but we still have a lot of work to do. She still doesn't understand most of what I say. She has melt downs that I'm sure if I knew her better I would be able to read. The thing is I have 3 at home who after a long 2 weeks are going to need the same level of care and nurturing. How will I do it? Something I've been learning about God the last couple of years is that he never gives us a task or responsibility that we can do without His help. If we could what we would we need Him for? No, he allows us the privilege to live life with challenges that only He can accomplish through us. So here I am with one very big responsibility and one very humble spirit to know I cannot do this on my own. So, am I still afraid? You bet, but I know I am not doing this alone and that helps me to feel less fearful and more expectant.
A deep sense of sadness fills my heart as we leave China. We leave some very nice people who I think may come friends over the years as we share pictures and experiences with our girls but that isn't where the deep sadness comes from. Our daughter is now a citizen of China. All the sights, sounds and smells here (good or bad) are hers. When we come back she will only be a visitor. She knows this language. She was in foster care most of her life so she has a very good handle on everything that is Chinese. She won't remember any of it. It's just sad, there is no way around it. I really believe that in God's perfect plan families were meant to be together. Since He loves us so much He has allowed us to make some choices and often we make some bad ones. So here we are with this beautiful girl who fills us with joy who has come to us from because some people made some very hard and sad choices.
I am also feeling very excited! I want to see my babies! I have missed them so much and can't wait to give them big hugs and kisses. I told Tim I even miss the dogs. His comment was something about that changing in ten minutes after we get home....he's probably right. We have had such beautiful weather the past few days. It felt as if we were back in the Keys in the winter again. We missed the peaking of the fall leaves turning. I will be glad to smell the fires in the fire places and feel the cool crisp air. I am looking forward to introducing Faith to the new sights and sounds that will be hers as soon as we go through immigration in Atlanta tomorrow evening. She will be an American citizen! I am so excited to be coming home and sleeping in a bed that doesn't feel like my front door. Taking a shower in which I can open my mouth and not have to gargle with Listerine will be nice.
How can I be feeling all these things at the same time, not sure but there are more emotions that I can't figure out and I don't have time to explore. We have to have our bags out for the bellman in 30 mins....yikes! Gotta go.
Thank you all for joining us on our journey! God bless you all,
Janet
This will be our last post while in the great country!
As we are packing our last few things and boiling our last pot of water (did Tim mention you can't drink the water here?) I realize that I have so many emotions banging around in my heart and my head I can barely sort through them. A few I can identify easily.
The first is of unspeakable joy. How in the world did I get to be the wife and mom of such wonderful people? As Tim has demonstrated to you the past two weeks he is an awesome man, husband and daddy. Our kids are the best. Some of you know that I have never been that much of a kid person. I have always liked them OK but kids have not been my passion. I never babysat, well the few times I did I didn't enjoy it very much. But now? Oh man, I am hooked and it took my precious children to show me the thrill of knowing a child. The new little one in our family is going to fit right in she has brought so much joy and laughter already and she hasn't even met the majority of the family. How did God pick me? How did he know I would love motherhood so much? Well, that's easy, He's God.
I am also feeling extreme FEAR! Just typing these words has my stomach in knots. How in the world am I going to juggle all that has to be done? Our precious Faith will need 24/7 nurturing and care to ensure bonding and attachment. We are well on our way but we still have a lot of work to do. She still doesn't understand most of what I say. She has melt downs that I'm sure if I knew her better I would be able to read. The thing is I have 3 at home who after a long 2 weeks are going to need the same level of care and nurturing. How will I do it? Something I've been learning about God the last couple of years is that he never gives us a task or responsibility that we can do without His help. If we could what we would we need Him for? No, he allows us the privilege to live life with challenges that only He can accomplish through us. So here I am with one very big responsibility and one very humble spirit to know I cannot do this on my own. So, am I still afraid? You bet, but I know I am not doing this alone and that helps me to feel less fearful and more expectant.
A deep sense of sadness fills my heart as we leave China. We leave some very nice people who I think may come friends over the years as we share pictures and experiences with our girls but that isn't where the deep sadness comes from. Our daughter is now a citizen of China. All the sights, sounds and smells here (good or bad) are hers. When we come back she will only be a visitor. She knows this language. She was in foster care most of her life so she has a very good handle on everything that is Chinese. She won't remember any of it. It's just sad, there is no way around it. I really believe that in God's perfect plan families were meant to be together. Since He loves us so much He has allowed us to make some choices and often we make some bad ones. So here we are with this beautiful girl who fills us with joy who has come to us from because some people made some very hard and sad choices.
I am also feeling very excited! I want to see my babies! I have missed them so much and can't wait to give them big hugs and kisses. I told Tim I even miss the dogs. His comment was something about that changing in ten minutes after we get home....he's probably right. We have had such beautiful weather the past few days. It felt as if we were back in the Keys in the winter again. We missed the peaking of the fall leaves turning. I will be glad to smell the fires in the fire places and feel the cool crisp air. I am looking forward to introducing Faith to the new sights and sounds that will be hers as soon as we go through immigration in Atlanta tomorrow evening. She will be an American citizen! I am so excited to be coming home and sleeping in a bed that doesn't feel like my front door. Taking a shower in which I can open my mouth and not have to gargle with Listerine will be nice.
How can I be feeling all these things at the same time, not sure but there are more emotions that I can't figure out and I don't have time to explore. We have to have our bags out for the bellman in 30 mins....yikes! Gotta go.
Thank you all for joining us on our journey! God bless you all,
Janet
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Almost home
Well, we are almost finished with our Chinese adventure. No, I take that back, we are still at the beginning of our adventure with China. We are simply ending this stage. For the rest of our lives China will be a part of how we think, how we celebrate, of who we are.
Tomorrow we go to the American Consulate and take the Oath and get Faith's Visa. Faith will automatically become a US citizen when we go through customs in the US.
This has been an amazing two weeks. We are ready to come home though. We miss Jake, Noah and Joylin terribly, but when you look into Faiths eyes it has all been worth it. The years of waiting, paper work, government appointments, home studies are all meaningless when you look at that beautiful face. I understand intellectually why this happened to Faith, but when you meet her you can not help but stand dumbfounded that anyone could let this precious little girl go. My heart grieves for what she has gone through. You so wish this was an isolated case but there are so many that need a home. Need someone to love them. To show them that they are special, that their life has purpose and meaning. The joy that our children, Jake, Noah, Joylin and Faith have brought to Janet and I is unmeasurable. We are so thankful for them.
The last two days have been incredible. Faith has recovered from her sickness and has just opened up to us so wonderfully. Janet and Faith are doing great. But Janet, being who she is, is always looking for the connection to be stronger. She is such a great mom. I am constantly amazed at her discipline and commitment to do all she can for our children. But more importantly than that.....Daddy is back on the A list!!!!!! Sorry Janet, I'm trying not to be so irresistible. :) We have had some great moments, as well as some trying ones..... :). Faith is something else; smart, beautiful, curious. I hope you have caught some of that in the pictures and videos posted.
We have been asked many times "Why adopt from China?". Our answer has been refined down to Why not. Does a child's birth place make their lives more or less valuable? If a child needs a home and you have the love and ability to care for them, shouldn't you? It is our prayer that the political and cultural situations/policies/attitudes will change here so there are no children needing homes. But today there are and when I look at Faith Nahia Daine Lescalleet I say Lord, thank you for giving us the ability to add this precious gift to our family. I pray we prove worthy of her love.
BaBa (bye bye, poopy, daddy) She started saying bye bye... "B B" so now it's really confusing
Tomorrow we go to the American Consulate and take the Oath and get Faith's Visa. Faith will automatically become a US citizen when we go through customs in the US.
This has been an amazing two weeks. We are ready to come home though. We miss Jake, Noah and Joylin terribly, but when you look into Faiths eyes it has all been worth it. The years of waiting, paper work, government appointments, home studies are all meaningless when you look at that beautiful face. I understand intellectually why this happened to Faith, but when you meet her you can not help but stand dumbfounded that anyone could let this precious little girl go. My heart grieves for what she has gone through. You so wish this was an isolated case but there are so many that need a home. Need someone to love them. To show them that they are special, that their life has purpose and meaning. The joy that our children, Jake, Noah, Joylin and Faith have brought to Janet and I is unmeasurable. We are so thankful for them.
The last two days have been incredible. Faith has recovered from her sickness and has just opened up to us so wonderfully. Janet and Faith are doing great. But Janet, being who she is, is always looking for the connection to be stronger. She is such a great mom. I am constantly amazed at her discipline and commitment to do all she can for our children. But more importantly than that.....Daddy is back on the A list!!!!!! Sorry Janet, I'm trying not to be so irresistible. :) We have had some great moments, as well as some trying ones..... :). Faith is something else; smart, beautiful, curious. I hope you have caught some of that in the pictures and videos posted.
We have been asked many times "Why adopt from China?". Our answer has been refined down to Why not. Does a child's birth place make their lives more or less valuable? If a child needs a home and you have the love and ability to care for them, shouldn't you? It is our prayer that the political and cultural situations/policies/attitudes will change here so there are no children needing homes. But today there are and when I look at Faith Nahia Daine Lescalleet I say Lord, thank you for giving us the ability to add this precious gift to our family. I pray we prove worthy of her love.
BaBa (bye bye, poopy, daddy) She started saying bye bye... "B B" so now it's really confusing
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
More of China
A game that is played everywhere. Young people, old people doesn't matter. Some of the best players we have seen are older ladies. Homeschooler guess what we will be doing my first PE back..... :)
A few more
At dinner tonight smiling. By the way, a great Italian Restaurant.
These are the girls that were with Faith in the orphanage. These are her " Fuzhou Sisters". They are so sweet and beautiful. We all are so very fortunate to have these precious little ones join our families. Here are some more
Mom, Dad and Faith on the "Red Couch". A White Swan adoption tradition
She's feeling much better
Faith talking to daddyNew pics of Faith
Faith is feeling much better today. She is smiling, laughing and even coming to daddy.
She still has the problem and we are concerned about it but at least she is feeling better. So that's got to be a good sign.
Hope you enjoy these pictures of our little princess number 2
She still has the problem and we are concerned about it but at least she is feeling better. So that's got to be a good sign.
Hope you enjoy these pictures of our little princess number 2
Monday, November 10, 2008
More great answers
Josh & Jeremy
Very good. Yes it is a huge country with so many people. This city, Guangzhou, has 12 million people living in it. I went to a mall today to do some sh oping. It was 8 stories high, and each floor was the size of a large American Mall. I have never seen so many stores in one place.
When your in one of the large cities like Guangzhou or Nanchang it's like being in New York but then you turn a corner and your standing in a street that has not changed much in 1500 years. Or you go into the country side and they are still plowing the fields with an Ox.
China is a fascinating place.
Tomorrow is the last day to submit your entries for the Chop. Get them in.
Everyone please pray for Faith. She is still sick. We thought she was just about better but today has been rough for her. We all need to feel good by Saturdays plane trip.
See you soon,
Tim, Janet & Faith
Very good. Yes it is a huge country with so many people. This city, Guangzhou, has 12 million people living in it. I went to a mall today to do some sh oping. It was 8 stories high, and each floor was the size of a large American Mall. I have never seen so many stores in one place.
When your in one of the large cities like Guangzhou or Nanchang it's like being in New York but then you turn a corner and your standing in a street that has not changed much in 1500 years. Or you go into the country side and they are still plowing the fields with an Ox.
China is a fascinating place.
Tomorrow is the last day to submit your entries for the Chop. Get them in.
Everyone please pray for Faith. She is still sick. We thought she was just about better but today has been rough for her. We all need to feel good by Saturdays plane trip.
See you soon,
Tim, Janet & Faith
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Another answer
1500 year old Buddist temple
Here's a few pics from today. And of course some more of our little princess.
Another great response. Good work Erin. We have seen the Great Wall in person and it is very cool. It's much bigger (wider & taller) than you think it is by looking at pictures.
Some of the Chinese culture
Home School question
Our first answer is in. Keep them coming.
Destiny,
I'm with you. I also find those things interesting. By the way we are having a Chinese New Years celebration at our house. Hope you guys will come.
Faith is feeling even better today. We are heading out to do some sightseeing. Hopefully all will go well. I'll post some pictures tonight.
Destiny,
I'm with you. I also find those things interesting. By the way we are having a Chinese New Years celebration at our house. Hope you guys will come.
Faith is feeling even better today. We are heading out to do some sightseeing. Hopefully all will go well. I'll post some pictures tonight.
In Guangzhou Home School Question
Hey everyone,
We made it to Guangzhou without any problems. Faith was very sick a few hours before leaving for the airport, so we were pretty worried. She was very fussy while in the airport but as soon as we got on the plan she settled right down and went to sleep. Thank goodness no messes to clean up... what a relief. Faith did throw up at the hotel after we settled in, so she was still pretty sick. I can't tell you how worried we were. Not knowing Faith's medical history or what things she might have been exposed too. Usually Janet is the worst case scenario person but I have to admit a lot of things were going through my head. I did not want her to end up in a hospital here. It happens, not as much anymore but it is always a possibility. It is just amazing to me how fast these little ones become so important to you. You love them so much so quickly. Faith is incredible. She is so beautiful, smart and sweet. I can't imagine being without her. She is truly part of this family part of our hearts.
One of the reports from the orphanage said she was stubborn and that is a fact! She has a will of her own and will let you know immediately if she isn't able to do what she wants. But even with this she is learning so quickly and responding to Janet's guidance.
Today she isbetter, not herself yet but feeling much better. She still has diarrhea so we are staying close to the room because she is having some blowouts. She is eating again though and holding it down. Maybe by tomorrow we can get out with her and see some of the city and play in the parks.
Faith and Janet are doing great. It takes time but there are great signs of bonding everyday. Daddy, well I'm still on the outs..... :( I'm good for a laugh but not yet holding worthy.
I was at a shop earlier today talking with one of the young ladies working there and she asked where my daughter was from. I told her Nanchang, Jiangxi and she said "Oh a spicy girl, the girls are beautiful from Jiangxi and Anhui". Joylin is from Anhui. Yes, my daughters are very, very beautiful. The "spicy girls" comes from the fact that the food is very spicy in Jiangxi province.
OK Home Schoolers This is for the traditional Chinese Chop. Customized with your name.
China has a long and rich history. Do some research and write a paragraph about a few of the things you find most interesting about China. It can be anything you like. Maybe about the emperors of old. Maybe how the country was founded, Maybe about the inventions they created or some of the things they built. Whatever you think is interesting about China.
I could write a book about all the things I think are cool about China. Let me hear some of your ideas. Don't wait to long to get it back to me. The Chop has to be made.
When you send it in I need your first name and the month you were born.
Good luck.
Hopefully over the next few days we will have lots of new pictures.
Tim
Friday, November 7, 2008
Faith is sick
Faith began throwing up a little before dinner last night. For those of you who are praying for us, please pray that she will be better by morning. We have a long day ahead of us and I only have a few changes of clothes.
You all are such great friends, we feel your love, concern and joy half way around the world.
Janet
You all are such great friends, we feel your love, concern and joy half way around the world.
Janet
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Leaving for Guangzhou
Well our time in Nanchang is coming to an end. It's been a good week. Faith continues to grow in her bond with Janet. They are inseparable. Where ever Janet is that's where Faith wants to be. It is great, though dad is feeling a little left out. I'm going to need a lot of loving from a princess in Murphy. Joylin, daddy is going to need some big cuddle time when we get home..... :)
Faith is warming again to me but slowly, which is perfectly ok. The really important bond at this stage is with her mommy. She is beautiful isn't she? Faith has such a sweet little voice and wonderful smile. She is also taking after her beautiful sister, she is smart. Faith has already learned a few words and to say "more" in sign language. I'm telling you ladies, your going to want to scoop her up and love on her. It's a very sad thing for all of us. Janet won't let you do it and Faith won't let me do it.... :( I'll tell you what, I'll sit with ya'll and we can look at her from afar.
One of the couples with us said Faith is the rock star of the group. She is something else.
I was really hoping to get out and see the country side but the weather has been terrible. The pictures of Nanchang and the surrounding mountains are beautiful but we won't see that for ourselves on this trip. Many of the ancient sites in this area were destroyed. Many during sino-china war, the civil war, then during the cultural revolution. It's really a shame. But there is still plenty to see that we have missed. Next time.
The food here is great and the meals themselves are wonderful. The meals are served in courses. They will bring bowls of food out to the table family style. So you load up your plate and start eating, thinking wow this is great and there is so much food. Then they bring out the next course and then the next and then the next....... When the watermelon finally gets to the table you know the meal is finally over. Literally you could eat all evening. Guess who is usually one of the last three people to leave the table. You have to sit and enjoy the meal not just wolf it down, I am going to miss these meals. Jake and Noah, you would love it. I can't wait to bring you here in a couple of years. What a great time we will have.
This area has a rich history in porcelain manufacturing. Over thousands of years! Some of the work is just beautiful, and I'm not even into it. Apparently historical there were a lot of wars in the north of China that drove many craftsman south. They settled in this area because it had the right kind of clay and clean water for making porcelain. We went to a shop today and picked up a few pieces. Not nearly as many as Janet wanted.... :)
We will be in Guangzhou for a week waiting for our consulate appointment and the final stages of the paper work to be finished. Hopefully the weather will clear and we will be able to see a few of the sites.
Thanks for following us during our adventure to get a little Faith. We've got it and her and it's wonderful.
Tim
Faith is warming again to me but slowly, which is perfectly ok. The really important bond at this stage is with her mommy. She is beautiful isn't she? Faith has such a sweet little voice and wonderful smile. She is also taking after her beautiful sister, she is smart. Faith has already learned a few words and to say "more" in sign language. I'm telling you ladies, your going to want to scoop her up and love on her. It's a very sad thing for all of us. Janet won't let you do it and Faith won't let me do it.... :( I'll tell you what, I'll sit with ya'll and we can look at her from afar.
One of the couples with us said Faith is the rock star of the group. She is something else.
I was really hoping to get out and see the country side but the weather has been terrible. The pictures of Nanchang and the surrounding mountains are beautiful but we won't see that for ourselves on this trip. Many of the ancient sites in this area were destroyed. Many during sino-china war, the civil war, then during the cultural revolution. It's really a shame. But there is still plenty to see that we have missed. Next time.
The food here is great and the meals themselves are wonderful. The meals are served in courses. They will bring bowls of food out to the table family style. So you load up your plate and start eating, thinking wow this is great and there is so much food. Then they bring out the next course and then the next and then the next....... When the watermelon finally gets to the table you know the meal is finally over. Literally you could eat all evening. Guess who is usually one of the last three people to leave the table. You have to sit and enjoy the meal not just wolf it down, I am going to miss these meals. Jake and Noah, you would love it. I can't wait to bring you here in a couple of years. What a great time we will have.
This area has a rich history in porcelain manufacturing. Over thousands of years! Some of the work is just beautiful, and I'm not even into it. Apparently historical there were a lot of wars in the north of China that drove many craftsman south. They settled in this area because it had the right kind of clay and clean water for making porcelain. We went to a shop today and picked up a few pieces. Not nearly as many as Janet wanted.... :)
We will be in Guangzhou for a week waiting for our consulate appointment and the final stages of the paper work to be finished. Hopefully the weather will clear and we will be able to see a few of the sites.
Thanks for following us during our adventure to get a little Faith. We've got it and her and it's wonderful.
Tim
Hi everyone,
Yes, I made it on this trip with Tim just in case you were wondering. He is doing such a good job of blogging. I am glad he had taken the lead on this one.
We are having a wonderful time but miss the kids terribly. It's so hard to make decisions like leaving your kids behind. I am glad we did though. We are having really good bonding time and I am able to work through any issues that may come up. If the kids were here I would be dealing with every one's issues.
Since Faith seems to be anxiously attached to me at the moment it is difficult to get anything done. She walks around the room so I am able to do things in the room but to get food at the buffet is difficult. Tim usually has to make my choices for me. I guess I will never have another bean in China, he can't even bring himself to put one on my plate. :0)
I am carrying her everywhere as well. I don't usually like back rubs or massages but I asked for one last night. I have two carriers but so far neither of them is working for the princess. Actually, she is doing a fair amount of walking so that helps.
Well, it is the middle of the night here so I am going to sign off and try to get some more sleep. For those of you who know me and my sleeping patterns understand that this is easier said than done, especially with what's been done to my time clock with this trip.
Oh, and thank you to all of you who are helping Tim's mom and sister with the kids. The kids are doing pretty well in the first week of our absence. I am so glad about this. If they were having difficulty it would make it even harder to be away from them.
Thanks for all your wonderful comments, keep them coming.
Janet
Yes, I made it on this trip with Tim just in case you were wondering. He is doing such a good job of blogging. I am glad he had taken the lead on this one.
We are having a wonderful time but miss the kids terribly. It's so hard to make decisions like leaving your kids behind. I am glad we did though. We are having really good bonding time and I am able to work through any issues that may come up. If the kids were here I would be dealing with every one's issues.
Since Faith seems to be anxiously attached to me at the moment it is difficult to get anything done. She walks around the room so I am able to do things in the room but to get food at the buffet is difficult. Tim usually has to make my choices for me. I guess I will never have another bean in China, he can't even bring himself to put one on my plate. :0)
I am carrying her everywhere as well. I don't usually like back rubs or massages but I asked for one last night. I have two carriers but so far neither of them is working for the princess. Actually, she is doing a fair amount of walking so that helps.
Well, it is the middle of the night here so I am going to sign off and try to get some more sleep. For those of you who know me and my sleeping patterns understand that this is easier said than done, especially with what's been done to my time clock with this trip.
Oh, and thank you to all of you who are helping Tim's mom and sister with the kids. The kids are doing pretty well in the first week of our absence. I am so glad about this. If they were having difficulty it would make it even harder to be away from them.
Thanks for all your wonderful comments, keep them coming.
Janet
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
pics of the day
Today we visited a site built in 620.
Dad and Faith crossing the pond,
Main palace. This has been a landmark in Nanchang for over 14oo years.
Our little Chinese princess
All smiles last night
Chinese lesson
Hello everyone,
Today went by very fast. I went to the orphanage but Janet's trip to the park got rained out. We have not seen the sun in 6 days.
The orphanage was actually very nice. It's a new building just finished last year. The facility was clean, well decorated and seemed to have most of the needs covered. I met one of the nannies that cared for Faith and saw where and how she lived while there. We also had the chance to meet the orphanage director and ask him questions. I left feeling a bit relieved at the care Faith received but extremely unsettled about all the children still there. The baby room was already filled with infant girls. The director said they would find families for those girls but the boys down stairs were mostly special needs children and it was unlikely they would find families.
What do you do with that....... I know we can't do anything right now but just leaving and acting like they don't exist, that can't be right either. The problem with opening your eyes is sometimes you don't like what you see. There will be a lot of praying going on over the next year.
Sorry, about that....
I did have a laugh today however. While asking our tour guide why every time I said thank you in Chinese to the young ladies working in the shops they all giggle.... loudly. He said I don't know how do you say it? So I said it. "No, say it this way" he says. So I said it that way. "No, say it this way" he says. So I said it that way. "NO, say it THIS way" he says. So I said it THIS way. "NO, SAY IT THIS WAY" he says. So I SAID IT THIS WAY. "I give up, their just going to giggle......." he says.
So I'm wondering what other words I'm mispronouncing. "BaBa" means daddy. So to Faith I've been calling myself BaBa. Well baba also means poop. Like "go poopy now". Daddy is BaBa with the ascent on the B while poop is baba with the "a" floating a little. So basically I've been calling myself poopy daddy for the last few days. And I was wondering why she hasn't been coming to me lately............
I was very intimidated about speaking Chinese for a few minutes then I remembered I don't speak English very well either; so giggle away girls, I'm glad to provide the entertainment.
Honestly, the young ladies do giggle but very sweetly and even try to teach me other words. The hospitality here is incredible.
By for now,
BaBa :)
Today went by very fast. I went to the orphanage but Janet's trip to the park got rained out. We have not seen the sun in 6 days.
The orphanage was actually very nice. It's a new building just finished last year. The facility was clean, well decorated and seemed to have most of the needs covered. I met one of the nannies that cared for Faith and saw where and how she lived while there. We also had the chance to meet the orphanage director and ask him questions. I left feeling a bit relieved at the care Faith received but extremely unsettled about all the children still there. The baby room was already filled with infant girls. The director said they would find families for those girls but the boys down stairs were mostly special needs children and it was unlikely they would find families.
What do you do with that....... I know we can't do anything right now but just leaving and acting like they don't exist, that can't be right either. The problem with opening your eyes is sometimes you don't like what you see. There will be a lot of praying going on over the next year.
Sorry, about that....
I did have a laugh today however. While asking our tour guide why every time I said thank you in Chinese to the young ladies working in the shops they all giggle.... loudly. He said I don't know how do you say it? So I said it. "No, say it this way" he says. So I said it that way. "No, say it this way" he says. So I said it that way. "NO, say it THIS way" he says. So I said it THIS way. "NO, SAY IT THIS WAY" he says. So I SAID IT THIS WAY. "I give up, their just going to giggle......." he says.
So I'm wondering what other words I'm mispronouncing. "BaBa" means daddy. So to Faith I've been calling myself BaBa. Well baba also means poop. Like "go poopy now". Daddy is BaBa with the ascent on the B while poop is baba with the "a" floating a little. So basically I've been calling myself poopy daddy for the last few days. And I was wondering why she hasn't been coming to me lately............
I was very intimidated about speaking Chinese for a few minutes then I remembered I don't speak English very well either; so giggle away girls, I'm glad to provide the entertainment.
Honestly, the young ladies do giggle but very sweetly and even try to teach me other words. The hospitality here is incredible.
By for now,
BaBa :)
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Going to the orphanage
Good morning,
Well it's 3:30am and we are wide awake again. A little better than yesterday but we are going to have to stay up later to get the schedule right.
Yesterday was good but we have had some changes. Faith continues to grow in her bond with us.
We were eating lunch in the hotel and one of the young women working there wanted to hold Faith. She put her arms out to Faith and she went to her but as soon as she was in her arms she immediately wanted back to Janet. Since then Faith has been very clingy to Janet. Not wanting to be away from her at all. Most of the day she wouldn't come to me, and she had been favouring me for a while. Normally Janet wouldn't let anyone hold her but it was one of those situations were it happened so fast and Janet didn't want to be rude. But it really seemed to affect her and Janet says it won't happen again. Sorry ladies, there won't be any Faith holding for a while....... :( And when you see her you are going to want to hold her.
Faith does love to be out an about and is just like her dad, she loves to eat. We went out last night as a group to a restaurant and Faith and I put away some food. It was delicious. The local food here in Nanchang is very spicy. And when I say very spicy I mean "I think I might die" spicy. The first servings were just good, a little hot but delicious. The second helpings were a little hotter but you just had to have some more. Then in the middle of the third servings you began to burn. Not just your lips but everything all the way down. Turned out what I thought were tasty little green bean like things were hot peppers. Obviously Faith and I didn't have the same dishes but she went after hers with the same fervor as dad. What a great dinner.
Today Janet and Faith will be going to the park with several of the families so there will be lots of pictures. I'm taking a trip to the orphanage in Fuzhou. It's about a 4 hour round trip. In some ways you just want to move on, not think about what Faith has been through. In a years time she has had 4 mothers. Been with 4 groups of strangers. Had no father figure at all until now.
Well it's 3:30am and we are wide awake again. A little better than yesterday but we are going to have to stay up later to get the schedule right.
Yesterday was good but we have had some changes. Faith continues to grow in her bond with us.
We were eating lunch in the hotel and one of the young women working there wanted to hold Faith. She put her arms out to Faith and she went to her but as soon as she was in her arms she immediately wanted back to Janet. Since then Faith has been very clingy to Janet. Not wanting to be away from her at all. Most of the day she wouldn't come to me, and she had been favouring me for a while. Normally Janet wouldn't let anyone hold her but it was one of those situations were it happened so fast and Janet didn't want to be rude. But it really seemed to affect her and Janet says it won't happen again. Sorry ladies, there won't be any Faith holding for a while....... :( And when you see her you are going to want to hold her.
Faith does love to be out an about and is just like her dad, she loves to eat. We went out last night as a group to a restaurant and Faith and I put away some food. It was delicious. The local food here in Nanchang is very spicy. And when I say very spicy I mean "I think I might die" spicy. The first servings were just good, a little hot but delicious. The second helpings were a little hotter but you just had to have some more. Then in the middle of the third servings you began to burn. Not just your lips but everything all the way down. Turned out what I thought were tasty little green bean like things were hot peppers. Obviously Faith and I didn't have the same dishes but she went after hers with the same fervor as dad. What a great dinner.
Today Janet and Faith will be going to the park with several of the families so there will be lots of pictures. I'm taking a trip to the orphanage in Fuzhou. It's about a 4 hour round trip. In some ways you just want to move on, not think about what Faith has been through. In a years time she has had 4 mothers. Been with 4 groups of strangers. Had no father figure at all until now.
It's enough to break your heart.
Faith you are with your forever family now. We have loved you before we knew you. We have been praying for you since before you were born. We don't know why you had to go through this, but we do know that you are gift to be treasured, that your life is one of incredible value and significance. We love you and will be there for you always. BaBa
Faith you are with your forever family now. We have loved you before we knew you. We have been praying for you since before you were born. We don't know why you had to go through this, but we do know that you are gift to be treasured, that your life is one of incredible value and significance. We love you and will be there for you always. BaBa
Monday, November 3, 2008
Nanchang question
There were several correct answers but Aaron started it off. Good job Aaron. When I get back I'll have a couple Chinese coins for you.
Jeff was dead on with a good knowledge of Chinese history as well.
Aaron yes, the battle of Nanchang was a significant event in world history. The revolutionary army (communists), trained by the Russians fought the Japanese pushing them out of the area. This gave the communists "liberator" status giving them the peoples support. This helped launch the Chinese Communist party to power. And the fact that China is a communist country has impacted the world in many, many ways.
Next question is for a Chinese Chop. A chop is a tradition stone stamp that has your Chinese name and your English name engraved on the bottom. It was the tradition way as far back as a couple thousand years to sign official documents. It's actually pretty cool.
It's going to be a harder question though and the answer must be complete.
Talk to you soon,
Tim
Jeff was dead on with a good knowledge of Chinese history as well.
Aaron yes, the battle of Nanchang was a significant event in world history. The revolutionary army (communists), trained by the Russians fought the Japanese pushing them out of the area. This gave the communists "liberator" status giving them the peoples support. This helped launch the Chinese Communist party to power. And the fact that China is a communist country has impacted the world in many, many ways.
Next question is for a Chinese Chop. A chop is a tradition stone stamp that has your Chinese name and your English name engraved on the bottom. It was the tradition way as far back as a couple thousand years to sign official documents. It's actually pretty cool.
It's going to be a harder question though and the answer must be complete.
Talk to you soon,
Tim
Homeschooler alert Todays China question
The Rosenbalm's from Florida were the first ones with the correct Hong Kong answer.
In 1997 the British turned Hong Kong back over to the Chinese.
The British started trading opium instead of silver to the Chinese for their goods and services.
This was having a devastating effect on the Chinese people. The Chinese imperial government tried to stop the trade and the first opium war was the result.
Two Hong Kong coins are going to Caroline and Price Good job
Todays question:
Nanchang plays a very important part in modern history for not only China but the entire world.
What happened in Nanchang?
In 1997 the British turned Hong Kong back over to the Chinese.
The British started trading opium instead of silver to the Chinese for their goods and services.
This was having a devastating effect on the Chinese people. The Chinese imperial government tried to stop the trade and the first opium war was the result.
Two Hong Kong coins are going to Caroline and Price Good job
Todays question:
Nanchang plays a very important part in modern history for not only China but the entire world.
What happened in Nanchang?
I've got places to go.......
Here she goes. This was taken at the govt offices in Nanchang. We were there finalizing the adoption with China. As far as the Chinese govt is concerned Faith is now our daughter. Of course she was our daughter long before this moment. We now have to wait for the paper work for her visa.
It's 2 in the morning here and Janet and I are wide awake. We all feel asleep on the bed at 5pm for a little nap...... woke up at 2 am. It's going to be a looooooooong day. But today is an easy day. The doctor comes out to the hotel to check the girls out. All the girls seem to be very healthy. A few sniffles but that's about it.
Little Missy was apparently a little hungry just before we went to sleep. She went over to the diaper bag, got in it, pulled out her bottle and gave it to Janet. And because daddy is the pack mule, chef, technology fixer, do whatever mommy says so she can bond with her baby.... :) I fixed the bottle, then of course gave it to mommy so she could look into her babies eyes while feeding her. Faith downed it. Faith is a huge eater. And isn't afraid to show her displeasure when see can't get to the cheerios when she wants to.
Thursday I'm going to the orphanage. Janet would like to go too but it's a 4 hour bus ride and there is no way we are taking Faith any where near there. So Faith and mommy are staying here.
We did have one very tense moment today. It almost cause the death of someone. Guess who?Faith wanted daddy instead of mommy. I was accused of having to be the "fun guy, the clown, always being around endearing yourself to everyone". Cutting, cruel words........ :). We both take the bonding process very seriously and want it to be a natural as possible. Mommy needs to be the first one Faith bonds with. For me though this is hard. Not the theory, in theory I'm 100% there. It's the application of the theory that is difficult. With every fiber of my body I want to sweep in and rescue, nuture, care for this little one. To pull back or not be the first one there is hard. The thing is Janet is a great mother, she has got it together and handles everything wonderfully and I need to let her do that. So babe load me up, the pack mule is back in service.
BaBa (daddy)
WHAT A GIRL !
Here are few more pictures from today. Faith is doing so well. She is laughing and even learned her first English word today... "ouch". I don't know what that says about her parents. Her first word being ouch.... :) We bumped heads and Janet put her hand to her head and said "ouch". Faith laughed and then put her hand on her own head and said "oouu" and LAUGHED.
Oh, and our little Missy can WALK. We were told that she could stand with help so we were all pretty amazed when she let go of the table and walked across the room. We have video if the site is letting you open it up.
Today has been amazing. Faith has just relaxed so much with us. We have laughed and played all day. The families got together in a conference area and the girls played. Faith would play with Janet then look over to me and walk over with her arms outstretch. I'd scoop her up and give her giant noisy kiss and she would giggle. She'd stay with me for a while then look for Janet and walk back over to her and they would play and kiss.
It has been a great day, an incredible day. I'm not sure how it could be better. Yes I do.. if Jake, Noah & Joylin were here. We miss them so much.
It is great being a dad, a parent. The life and love our children give us is nothing short of amazing. It's sad how often we (I) take it for granted, or let the everyday struggles rob us of the joy. It's a privilege to raise and nurture these gifts from God. Lord help me show my kids everyday how much I love them, how great they are, how much worth they have to me and to you.
Tim
Sunday, November 2, 2008
are you able to open the video
Lot's to update but no time right now.
Can you open the videos? If so we have more
Tim
Can you open the videos? If so we have more
Tim
Share Faith's first smle with us
Here it is. Her first smile at mama.
This morning is great so far !! A lot of "hey you two are still here?" kind of looks and even some smiles.
Faith is HERE !!!!!
Here she is with her mommy Miss Faith Nahai Diane. She spent the first hour and a half screaming and trying to get away from us. So Janet put her on the bed, sat next to her rubbing here back and head. Nahai would stop crying, glance over at one of us and start crying again. This went on for about a full hour.
Then slowly she started looking at us, just a little longer, stopped crying and let us get a little closer. By the time this picture was taken she was laughing at her silly baba (daddy). And Mom was cuddling her.
She is so beautiful and we love her so much. Tonight ended well. I'm sure tomorrow will bring some more difficulties but we will be there for her and we will get though it together. She is with her mom and dad now, her family.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Faith is on her way !!
It's 2:30pm in Nanchang China,
We just arrived at the hotel. We are going down to a meeting at 3pm, then the girls come to the hotel at 5 to 5:30.
We are so grateful and so nervous....... Weird huh? We have three kids that are doing great and here we are almost like Faith is our first child.
Please pray for Faith Nahai. She has gone through so much in her short life. We so have the desire to take away the hurt and pain and replace it with security, safety and love. I want her to feel it now, immediately, but I know it takes time.
We have to go
Tim
We just arrived at the hotel. We are going down to a meeting at 3pm, then the girls come to the hotel at 5 to 5:30.
We are so grateful and so nervous....... Weird huh? We have three kids that are doing great and here we are almost like Faith is our first child.
Please pray for Faith Nahai. She has gone through so much in her short life. We so have the desire to take away the hurt and pain and replace it with security, safety and love. I want her to feel it now, immediately, but I know it takes time.
We have to go
Tim
Janet's Big Hair
Janet is having "issues" with the picture I posted of us. Apparently it looks like she has "big hair".
I don't really see the problem, I'd love to look like I have big hair.........
So I've been instructed to tell everyone that the wind was blowing really hard and she wasn't going for that Texas look or was it the 80's either way it wasn't intentional.
Janet finally got to eat at Ruth's Chris ( Mine and Jake's favorite steak place ) She just had to go to Hong Kong to do it. Great Dinner over looking Victoria Bay.
Good night everyone,
Tim
I don't really see the problem, I'd love to look like I have big hair.........
So I've been instructed to tell everyone that the wind was blowing really hard and she wasn't going for that Texas look or was it the 80's either way it wasn't intentional.
Janet finally got to eat at Ruth's Chris ( Mine and Jake's favorite steak place ) She just had to go to Hong Kong to do it. Great Dinner over looking Victoria Bay.
Good night everyone,
Tim
Hong Kong Tim
Hey everybody Pics above are of Hong Kong,
We had a very nice day touring Hong Kong and getting to know the families in our group. There are 40 of us! Several of the families brought their kids along. I'm missing ours and feeling a little guilty about not bringing them. We think it was the right decision, to give us time to bond with Faith, but seeing these kids experiencing the wonders of China is very cool.
I can't wait to take a heritage tour with our clan in a few years.
Anybody up for going along???
We are tired but very excited. Tomorrow we hold Faith! It's amazing how having your fourth child in no less special than the first. Sorry Jake but it's true. :)
Home Schooler's question of the day: The first right answer gets a Hong Kong coin.
Hong Kong is a beautiful city with an interesting history and future. What year did the Chinese government take over Hong Kong from the British?
Just for fun. Anybody know who were fighting in the opium wars and why?
We had a very nice day touring Hong Kong and getting to know the families in our group. There are 40 of us! Several of the families brought their kids along. I'm missing ours and feeling a little guilty about not bringing them. We think it was the right decision, to give us time to bond with Faith, but seeing these kids experiencing the wonders of China is very cool.
I can't wait to take a heritage tour with our clan in a few years.
Anybody up for going along???
We are tired but very excited. Tomorrow we hold Faith! It's amazing how having your fourth child in no less special than the first. Sorry Jake but it's true. :)
Home Schooler's question of the day: The first right answer gets a Hong Kong coin.
Hong Kong is a beautiful city with an interesting history and future. What year did the Chinese government take over Hong Kong from the British?
Just for fun. Anybody know who were fighting in the opium wars and why?
Thanks for sharing this experience with us.
Tim
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