and we have the paper link chain to prove it.
You know I’ve been busy when I’ve been having blog-worthy events daily and haven’t blogged about them. We’ve been busy around here taking care of loose ends and trying to make sure everything is taken care for our trip, for Lydia in China, for Lydia at home, for our three kids staying home (don’t worry, they won’t be alone. Grandparents are coming to the rescue.). It’s a bit overwhelming.
Since you wouldn’t want to see pictures of me on the phone with travel agents and airlines and scurrying around my house cleaning up while three children follow behind me messying up, I’ll post some other fun pics of cool things we’ve gotten in the mail recently.
Kerrie, my little sis in my college sorority back in the day, sent us this package of goodies. All of it is coming to China with us. I love the pink and brown pants in particular because they look great under almost every dress Lydia has. They are perfect for layering.
When we started this journey to Lydia back in the spring of 2007, I started a yahoo group for families on the same timeline of us. All members had their paperwork logged into China’s system in July 2007. Lots has changed since then–many of those families are home with children adopted via China’s special needs program, some adopted from other countries, some are pursuing domestic adoptions, and some are still waiting. One special friend from this group, Jen, who recently became a mother to a newborn baby girl they adopted domestically, sent me these three things. Check out those panda shoes! And, the ladybug bikini! Too much! :)
This is a special gift I just got last week. I’ve so enjoyed building relationships with other adoptive families. One kindred spirit, Ashley, has been a real support to me as we waited to see Lydia for the first time. It has been a real joy to also see her matched with her new daughter Kate who is just a beauty. She sent me this amazing little security blanket that she makes herself as a business to help with the adoption costs. Look at the monogram on it! Ashley remembered a previous post in which I said giraffes remind me of my grandmother, so she thought this material was perfect. I tell you what, if Lydia doesn’t bond with this, I just might. It’s the softest thing you’ll ever touch.
And, I can’t leave this special gift out. When we were matched with Lydia, my parents were in Beijing (as they often are). My mom had a woman in Beijing hand make this sterling silver charm for me. In fact, she had 3 of them made for me–one for me and 2 smaller versions for Ashlyn and Lydia. They are the Chinese characters for Mei Yue, Lydia’s given name, meaning beautiful moon. I’ve been wearing it nearly everyday and look forward to wearing it in China when we receive our daughter.
The luggage is waiting in our dining room ready to be filled with clothes and other necessities (lots of them–I don’t know how we’re going to fit all we need in there). In the meantime, it makes for a good boat for Drew. I’m going to miss that silly face while we’re gone.
I am so EXCITED for you all!!!! I’ll be haunting your blog during your whole trip to Xi’an.
Congratulations.
Courtney
Kelly,
The joy of getting ready for your trip to China is amazing! I didn’t feel ready until they shut the door on the plane and I knew I had to be ready because there was no looking back.
Tricia
Kelly,
I just stumbled upon your blog. Your baby is absolutely beautiful!! We are getting ready to pick up our four year old son. Maybe we will see you in Guangzhou!! Congratulations!
Oh Kelly, I am SO excited for you! It’s all happening so fast now. When do you leave?…if I’m seeing things correctly (going by the paper links on your fridge!) it looks as if you’ll be leaving in 8 days!!?? WOW! I can’t believe your precious baby girl will be in your arms SOON! PTL!
And what beautiful treasures and gifts you have received. I LOVE the necklace that your mom had made for you and the girls. It’s so neat that your parents have so many travels in China. And I’ve gotta find out where your friend purchased that ladybug bikinni… I think I need one for Khloe before we travel, too!! ;)
Praying everything goes well and that you have safe and healthy travels to your little princess!
God bless you all! <>< love,
Tanya
What sweet gifts! I love the necklace…and the picture of Drew in the suitcase is priceless! Praying for you!
We are very excited for you! Sure wish we were going w/ you! Prayers that God would keep all of you in the palm of His hands (both on this side of the world and the other).
All those gifts are adorable, and I love the necklaces for you and the girls. Feel free to leave my number for the grandparents, in case they need a play date (or anything else)during spring break. Will you be home by then?
Oh my, I am so excited for you guys!
And the necklace is just beautiful! I love it!
Kelly, could I get the name/ contact info of the lady in Beijing that made the sterling silver charm?? I would LOVE to have her do one or two for our family.
EXCITING TIMES AHEAD!!
We can’t wait to follow along!!
WOW, not much longer now! Love the pics and what super-awesome gifts Lydia has received. She is going to love them. That pic of your son is so adorable. So happy for you my friend. You are going to love China!
Hugs,
Jonni
P.S. That necklace is amazing!