We had many funny moments and learning experiences while in China. I am thankful for these funny moments which gave us something to laugh about in some tired and stressed moments.
Here is my top 11:
11 - First morning getting ready in China, Shea blew up the adapter and it smoked up the room. We had to use the iPhone translator to communicate with housekeeping that we needed a new adapter.
10 - At Six Banyan Temple, Tommy falls in the flower bed from missing a step. CCAI guides asked everyday if he is okay.
9 - We had a 100 photos taken with locals at the Great Wall. The kids end up asking the adults to surround them to hide/shield them from the locals.
8 - Glenda had to learn how to walk on the escalator while carrying luggage at airport.
7 - A girl asked Kevin if he had a baby with another person.
6 - When arriving at our first hotel in China we walk in and turn on the lights, then all the lights go off. We failed to put the key in the holder to keep the power on.
5 - Glenda asked the first day with AK if AK wanted French fries that she would like them. She probably has never had a French fry.
4 - At 5 am at Birmingham airport waiting to depart for Chicago, Glenda asks if we have talked to Bennett.
3 - Glenda had her squatty potty experience where she completely undresses to go to the bathroom.
2 - A 10 minute trip to Subway restaurant took Tommy two hours. He went the wrong way and got lost. We were giving him 15 minutes before contacting CCAI guides.
1 - When ordering room service, Glenda mentions they have weird macaroni with bologna. It was macaroni with bolognese sauce.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Day 17 - Headed to USA
This morning we got re-packed, ate breakfast, and headed to the airport for the longest day of our lives. There was a long line to get our boarding passes and check our luggage. We ran into a couple from our Guangzhou hotel who was flying out with us. We departed HK 4/26 at 11:30 am HK time or 4/25 at 10:30 pm central time.
I know everyone was praying for us regarding this 14 hour flight because AK did great. We gave her some Benadryl when we boarded the plane and she was out by time we departed. She slept for about 3 hours and I was able to get a little work done. When she woke, it was time to eat. She ate all her, mine, and Nanna's green beans. She played well for four hours. We gave her another dose of Benadryl, but it did not make her tired. She finally went to sleep with two hours left on the flight. For her being awake as much as she was we really did not have any meltdowns. She would get restless a few times and we would walk around with her. When getting off the plane everyone commented on how good she did.
We landed in San Francisco and had a 2 hour layover. That was just enough time to go through immigration (AK recognized as US citizen), customs, pick up bags, recheck bags, and go back through security, and pick up something to eat. I was very concerned we would not be able to get all that done in two hours, but we were fine. Then at 10:30 am PT on 4/26 we left for Chicago.
AK did great again. She slept most of this flight. I started having dizziness at the airport and started feeling nauseous on the plane. I had to let Nanna hold AK and I got some sleep.
We had a short layover in Chicago with flight delayed 20 minutes. We finally got AK to wake up. At 6:45 pm CT we left for Birmingham. AK was awake for this flight. She had a short meltdown when she could not have my sprite. She really snacked on Cheerios the entire flight.
We got back to Birmingham at 8:20 pm CT. So from the time we left for airport to arrival in Birmingham was 24 hours. So 4/26 lasted 39 hours for us. This trip back with AK could not have gone any better. I thanked God every leg of the trip for answering our prayers. She never had a meltdown like we experienced flying from Zhengzhou to Guangzhou.
At Birmingham, Kevin and I ran from the terminal to baggage claim. Coming down the escalator, we saw Bennett and our friends. They had come with signs welcoming us home. AK was an answered pray for all of us. Kevin and I ran to get Bennett. He felt like he had gained twenty pounds. Bennett recognized "sissy" and gave her kisses. AK hit Bennett which upset Bennett. He is so tender hearted. After that Bennett preferred us to AK.
All the temporary brothers Bennett has had while we were gone smothered Bennett with love. Megan and Jaime, Bennett's temporary mommies, said he was great. I was glad to hear he did well. I know looking back we made the right decision to not take Bennett, but for me I will never do it again. Kevin and I did not handle it well. It still upsets me that we left him.
We put AK in the car seat for ride home. She screamed going into the car seat, but when we started going and got her some more Cheerios, she calmed down. For the most part, she handled the ride home well.
When we got home, Bennett went to get his toy cars and AK got down from my lap to play. I don't think Bennett liked his new shadow. Bennett has learned the word "mine". I can foresee future timeouts for saying this word.
Around 11 pm, we put Bennett to bed and then AK. We made her a pallet in the floor of her room. I laid with her for 30 minutes and then went to my bed. She slept till 2:15 am. She woke up from all her congestion. She could not breath. After an hour I could not slip out, so Kevin intervened. He got her to sleep, but she was up an hour later. Around 8, she fell into a deep sleep on the couch which was when Bennett and I got up. She slept through falling off the couch twice and Bennett and I playing. Around 10:30, she got up.
We had a good first day. You can tell Bennett really loves her. He asks about her constantly. However, both Bennett and AK want what the other one has or whoever has one of them. I expected this. I pray as AK gets more comfortable with Bennett that this jealousy will improve.
I know everyone was praying for us regarding this 14 hour flight because AK did great. We gave her some Benadryl when we boarded the plane and she was out by time we departed. She slept for about 3 hours and I was able to get a little work done. When she woke, it was time to eat. She ate all her, mine, and Nanna's green beans. She played well for four hours. We gave her another dose of Benadryl, but it did not make her tired. She finally went to sleep with two hours left on the flight. For her being awake as much as she was we really did not have any meltdowns. She would get restless a few times and we would walk around with her. When getting off the plane everyone commented on how good she did.
We landed in San Francisco and had a 2 hour layover. That was just enough time to go through immigration (AK recognized as US citizen), customs, pick up bags, recheck bags, and go back through security, and pick up something to eat. I was very concerned we would not be able to get all that done in two hours, but we were fine. Then at 10:30 am PT on 4/26 we left for Chicago.
AK did great again. She slept most of this flight. I started having dizziness at the airport and started feeling nauseous on the plane. I had to let Nanna hold AK and I got some sleep.
We had a short layover in Chicago with flight delayed 20 minutes. We finally got AK to wake up. At 6:45 pm CT we left for Birmingham. AK was awake for this flight. She had a short meltdown when she could not have my sprite. She really snacked on Cheerios the entire flight.
We got back to Birmingham at 8:20 pm CT. So from the time we left for airport to arrival in Birmingham was 24 hours. So 4/26 lasted 39 hours for us. This trip back with AK could not have gone any better. I thanked God every leg of the trip for answering our prayers. She never had a meltdown like we experienced flying from Zhengzhou to Guangzhou.
At Birmingham, Kevin and I ran from the terminal to baggage claim. Coming down the escalator, we saw Bennett and our friends. They had come with signs welcoming us home. AK was an answered pray for all of us. Kevin and I ran to get Bennett. He felt like he had gained twenty pounds. Bennett recognized "sissy" and gave her kisses. AK hit Bennett which upset Bennett. He is so tender hearted. After that Bennett preferred us to AK.
All the temporary brothers Bennett has had while we were gone smothered Bennett with love. Megan and Jaime, Bennett's temporary mommies, said he was great. I was glad to hear he did well. I know looking back we made the right decision to not take Bennett, but for me I will never do it again. Kevin and I did not handle it well. It still upsets me that we left him.
We put AK in the car seat for ride home. She screamed going into the car seat, but when we started going and got her some more Cheerios, she calmed down. For the most part, she handled the ride home well.
When we got home, Bennett went to get his toy cars and AK got down from my lap to play. I don't think Bennett liked his new shadow. Bennett has learned the word "mine". I can foresee future timeouts for saying this word.
Around 11 pm, we put Bennett to bed and then AK. We made her a pallet in the floor of her room. I laid with her for 30 minutes and then went to my bed. She slept till 2:15 am. She woke up from all her congestion. She could not breath. After an hour I could not slip out, so Kevin intervened. He got her to sleep, but she was up an hour later. Around 8, she fell into a deep sleep on the couch which was when Bennett and I got up. She slept through falling off the couch twice and Bennett and I playing. Around 10:30, she got up.
We had a good first day. You can tell Bennett really loves her. He asks about her constantly. However, both Bennett and AK want what the other one has or whoever has one of them. I expected this. I pray as AK gets more comfortable with Bennett that this jealousy will improve.
Day 16 - Visa and leave for HK
This morning we were able to sleep in. We got our bags back. Around 4:00 pm, we got AK's visa and immigration packet (brown envelope). We got in a van around 4:20 pm to go to Hong Kong.
There was some traffic leaving Guangzhou and entering HK. It was suppose to be a three hour trip. We got selected at the HK border to have our car checked. I was scared because we went to this back alley to unload the car. We had to get all the luggage out and put it through the scanner. They opened and went through one of our bags. I guess they thought the tea set I got was an explosive.
The great news is that we made it to the hotel alive around four hours later. We had some scary driving moments. At one point Kevin thought he wet himself from fear. AK did great in the car. She stayed awake, played, ate, and danced. She really loves music. We picked up on this in he hotel elevator when she would sway her head back and forth to he music. Not sure what was played in the van, but she moved her whole body to the music.
I wished we had more time in Hong Kong. The city seemed so beautiful from our van ride through. You have mountains, water, and city skyline. From the people we experienced at the hotel, the people were extremely friendly and helpful. The best part is they spoke English. I was concerned about going over to HK early that we would have language issues, but that was not an issue.
Glad to be in our last hotel for a while. So excited to be heading home in he morning.
There was some traffic leaving Guangzhou and entering HK. It was suppose to be a three hour trip. We got selected at the HK border to have our car checked. I was scared because we went to this back alley to unload the car. We had to get all the luggage out and put it through the scanner. They opened and went through one of our bags. I guess they thought the tea set I got was an explosive.
The great news is that we made it to the hotel alive around four hours later. We had some scary driving moments. At one point Kevin thought he wet himself from fear. AK did great in the car. She stayed awake, played, ate, and danced. She really loves music. We picked up on this in he hotel elevator when she would sway her head back and forth to he music. Not sure what was played in the van, but she moved her whole body to the music.
I wished we had more time in Hong Kong. The city seemed so beautiful from our van ride through. You have mountains, water, and city skyline. From the people we experienced at the hotel, the people were extremely friendly and helpful. The best part is they spoke English. I was concerned about going over to HK early that we would have language issues, but that was not an issue.
Glad to be in our last hotel for a while. So excited to be heading home in he morning.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Day 15 - Consulate Appointment
We had an early start this morning. We left at 7:55 am to go to the US Embassy for our consulate appointment. We went through security and then waited. There was a large group there for adoptions. We took an oath basically swearing the the documents were true. Then family by family we went to the window to give them our paperwork packet. A few minutes later we were done.
Later we went to the Pearl Market to shop. We learned about the different quality of pearls and how to distinquish real from fake. We bought a few gifts and shopped around. The malls were 4+ floors and went on and on. We had to hail a taxi on our on. They did not want Americana. I finally opened the door to a moving taxi to get him to stop.
This is our last night in Guangzhou. We will be traveling to Hong Kong tomorrow. We are getting close to be back home. We miss everyone!
Later we went to the Pearl Market to shop. We learned about the different quality of pearls and how to distinquish real from fake. We bought a few gifts and shopped around. The malls were 4+ floors and went on and on. We had to hail a taxi on our on. They did not want Americana. I finally opened the door to a moving taxi to get him to stop.
This is our last night in Guangzhou. We will be traveling to Hong Kong tomorrow. We are getting close to be back home. We miss everyone!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Day 14 - Shopping
AK had another great night's sleep. I am hoping this has become a pattern. I laid down with her last night. She did not need me to hold her. She tossed and turn and sat up and jabbered, but eventually laid herself down and went to sleep without any assistance from me. She slept through the night, but still hard to get her up in the morning. Hopefully with an earlier bedtime at home she will wake up in the mornings.
Breakfast was disappointing this morning. No waffles or pancakes. I had a muffin and bacon. AK had rice, noodles, dumplings, banana, and bowl of congey. We took a taxi to Victory Hotel at Shamian Island with two other families. This is where most families coming to adopt previously stayed. It is the area where the famous White Swan hotel was. It is currently under construction for the last two years. Although it has changed a lot from what I have heard, we still got a lot of shopping done. The area is so nice and reminds me of Charleston. Old southern style buildings with lots of trees and greenery. We got lots of gifts for AK and family. We ate at the famous Lucy's restaurant which serves American and Chinese food. I got a burger which was yummy. Although we ordered rice for AK, she mostly ate my burger.
Then we came back to hotel and took a nap. AK fought it again, but ended up sleeping for two hours. We are hoping to get to bed early tonight since we have to leave at 7:55 am for the US Consulate. Tomorrow is our appointment to get AK's visa. Later tomorrow we are going to the Pearl Factory to do the last of the shopping.
Please pray for our plane ride back to US. For us alone without AK, it will be difficult. Add a 15 month old and no sleep for adults, this equals torture. I don't know how we are going to be able to manage her, adjusting to Central Time, and Bennett. Pray for strength, energy, endurance, mental and physical strength.
Breakfast was disappointing this morning. No waffles or pancakes. I had a muffin and bacon. AK had rice, noodles, dumplings, banana, and bowl of congey. We took a taxi to Victory Hotel at Shamian Island with two other families. This is where most families coming to adopt previously stayed. It is the area where the famous White Swan hotel was. It is currently under construction for the last two years. Although it has changed a lot from what I have heard, we still got a lot of shopping done. The area is so nice and reminds me of Charleston. Old southern style buildings with lots of trees and greenery. We got lots of gifts for AK and family. We ate at the famous Lucy's restaurant which serves American and Chinese food. I got a burger which was yummy. Although we ordered rice for AK, she mostly ate my burger.
Then we came back to hotel and took a nap. AK fought it again, but ended up sleeping for two hours. We are hoping to get to bed early tonight since we have to leave at 7:55 am for the US Consulate. Tomorrow is our appointment to get AK's visa. Later tomorrow we are going to the Pearl Factory to do the last of the shopping.
Please pray for our plane ride back to US. For us alone without AK, it will be difficult. Add a 15 month old and no sleep for adults, this equals torture. I don't know how we are going to be able to manage her, adjusting to Central Time, and Bennett. Pray for strength, energy, endurance, mental and physical strength.
Day 13 - Medical Exam
AK had another great night. Since she had a late nap, she went to bed later than usual. Kevin got her to sleep and said that she pretty much put herself to sleep last night. She may be my night owl. At 8 am, we had to wake her up to get ready and eat breakfast.
Today we went to the clinic for the medical exam. When we got there, we waited around 40 minutes for the doctors to get there. She went to three stations. The nurse station weighed her and got her height. AK was 19.8 lbs and 29.5 inches tall. Then we saw the ENT who looked at her ears and throat. Then we saw the medical examiner who reviewed her medical reports, listened to her heart and lungs, and examined her scar from the tumor. The total exam took about 20 minutes. AK cried, but did better than I expected. While waiting on the other families to have their exams, AK fell asleep and slept all the way back to hotel.
We walked across the street to Subway for lunch. We discovered that AK loves bananas. We had an easy afternoon hoping AK would take a nap, but she did not. Kevin and AK walked around the hotel. They went to the playground and she seemed to have fun. Then 10 minutes before leaving for the Pearl River Boat Cruise she crashed. We got on the bus to leave and she woke up possessed by the devil. Kevin got her to calm down.
We boarded a ferry boat that went up and down a portion of the Pearl River. We had a buffet supper with Chinese food. I ate a steamed bun, bread, rice, and corn on cob. AK ate the most of all us. She had rice, sausage meatballs, dumplings, steamed bun, noodles, etc. It was so pretty to see the city at night. The bridges were lit up with lights and changed colors. The canton tower was amazing. It was lit up like a rainbow. There was a clown show. AK enjoyed dancing to the music.
Tomorrow we plan to do some shopping. The group is going to the zoo and a family style restaurant, but we are going to pass.
Today we went to the clinic for the medical exam. When we got there, we waited around 40 minutes for the doctors to get there. She went to three stations. The nurse station weighed her and got her height. AK was 19.8 lbs and 29.5 inches tall. Then we saw the ENT who looked at her ears and throat. Then we saw the medical examiner who reviewed her medical reports, listened to her heart and lungs, and examined her scar from the tumor. The total exam took about 20 minutes. AK cried, but did better than I expected. While waiting on the other families to have their exams, AK fell asleep and slept all the way back to hotel.
We walked across the street to Subway for lunch. We discovered that AK loves bananas. We had an easy afternoon hoping AK would take a nap, but she did not. Kevin and AK walked around the hotel. They went to the playground and she seemed to have fun. Then 10 minutes before leaving for the Pearl River Boat Cruise she crashed. We got on the bus to leave and she woke up possessed by the devil. Kevin got her to calm down.
We boarded a ferry boat that went up and down a portion of the Pearl River. We had a buffet supper with Chinese food. I ate a steamed bun, bread, rice, and corn on cob. AK ate the most of all us. She had rice, sausage meatballs, dumplings, steamed bun, noodles, etc. It was so pretty to see the city at night. The bridges were lit up with lights and changed colors. The canton tower was amazing. It was lit up like a rainbow. There was a clown show. AK enjoyed dancing to the music.
Tomorrow we plan to do some shopping. The group is going to the zoo and a family style restaurant, but we are going to pass.
AK eating dumplings
Canton Tower
Ferry Boat
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Day 12 - Tour of Guangzhou
AK had a great night. Kevin got her to sleep. She slept all night by herself, but in an adult bed. We have air at this hotel, so we all slept better. She woke up at 8 am. Breakfast at this hotel is better than the other two. I had waffles and hash browns.
We went on a tour of Six Banyan's Temple. There were many people there praying to the gold statues. It was a different experience. The area was very nice, but it reminds me that I serve and worship a living God. AK slept on the on the way there and while touring here.
Then we went to Old Chen House (Provincial Folk Art Museum). This was another amazing building. There were many rooms which displayed different types of art - embroidery, wood carving, hand painting, etc. We got a few more gifts here.
Lastly, we went to the Arts and Crafts Shopping Center. This was a large mall with to shop for high quality gift items. We got AK and friends some more gifts. We also tried some green tea. Then we were done till our afternoon meeting to prepare paperwork for consulate appointment.
Tomorrow we go to have the medical exam completed.
We went on a tour of Six Banyan's Temple. There were many people there praying to the gold statues. It was a different experience. The area was very nice, but it reminds me that I serve and worship a living God. AK slept on the on the way there and while touring here.
Then we went to Old Chen House (Provincial Folk Art Museum). This was another amazing building. There were many rooms which displayed different types of art - embroidery, wood carving, hand painting, etc. We got a few more gifts here.
Lastly, we went to the Arts and Crafts Shopping Center. This was a large mall with to shop for high quality gift items. We got AK and friends some more gifts. We also tried some green tea. Then we were done till our afternoon meeting to prepare paperwork for consulate appointment.
Tomorrow we go to have the medical exam completed.
Six Banyan's Temple
Jude stole Nanna
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Day 11 - Travel to Guangzhou
AK had an okay night. Kevin was able to put her to sleep. Although she slept through the night, she has a runny nose and had trouble breathing. She sucks her thumb when she sleeps, so breathing out a stuffy nose was hard.
We got to Skype with Bennett this morning. Kevin and I could barely talk to him cause of us crying. I had a really tough day from missing him. I am ready to be home and hold my sweet boy. I hope it has been harder on us than him because it has been bad. I can't talk about him without crying.
AK usually has a morning and afternoon nap. So she slept from the hotel till we got to security. Airport was busy. We had 5 minutes to spare before boarding. If this was a test of what our flight home will be like, then I may open the exit door and jump. AK sat fine for 20 minutes. She ate all the lunch they provided me. She had 3 more she could have had if she wanted. It looked awful. I guess she loves carrots. After that came the meltdown. I believe her ears started bothering her. She screamed the entire rest of the flight (45 minutes). The Chinese people wanted to hold her as if they could calm her down. I knew what she wanted was for me to stand up with her, but I could not.
The airport in Guangzhou was huge. We walked forever to get to the bus. It was 40 degrees in Zhengzhou when we left and 80 degrees in Guangzhou.
We are staying at The China Hotel. It is weird to see so many white people. There are a lot of adopting families here. We ran into a couple we met in Chicago on our flight to Beijing. The have a little girl now.
Once we got to the hotel, it started to storm. So we had room service for supper. The burger was like an American burger. AK has continued to do better each night with bath time. I still take a bath with her, but she does not cry. She actually played with her duckies in the water last night.
Tomorrow we are going on a tour. Hope we have good weather.
We got to Skype with Bennett this morning. Kevin and I could barely talk to him cause of us crying. I had a really tough day from missing him. I am ready to be home and hold my sweet boy. I hope it has been harder on us than him because it has been bad. I can't talk about him without crying.
AK usually has a morning and afternoon nap. So she slept from the hotel till we got to security. Airport was busy. We had 5 minutes to spare before boarding. If this was a test of what our flight home will be like, then I may open the exit door and jump. AK sat fine for 20 minutes. She ate all the lunch they provided me. She had 3 more she could have had if she wanted. It looked awful. I guess she loves carrots. After that came the meltdown. I believe her ears started bothering her. She screamed the entire rest of the flight (45 minutes). The Chinese people wanted to hold her as if they could calm her down. I knew what she wanted was for me to stand up with her, but I could not.
The airport in Guangzhou was huge. We walked forever to get to the bus. It was 40 degrees in Zhengzhou when we left and 80 degrees in Guangzhou.
We are staying at The China Hotel. It is weird to see so many white people. There are a lot of adopting families here. We ran into a couple we met in Chicago on our flight to Beijing. The have a little girl now.
Once we got to the hotel, it started to storm. So we had room service for supper. The burger was like an American burger. AK has continued to do better each night with bath time. I still take a bath with her, but she does not cry. She actually played with her duckies in the water last night.
Tomorrow we are going on a tour. Hope we have good weather.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Day 10 - Rest day
AK had a good night. She woke up once and Kevin was able to calm her and put her back to bed. She woke up around 6:30. Kevin took her to breakfast so I could get ready, but she did not eat well till I got there.
The weather here is so strange. It has been upper 80's and 90's until yesterday. It was cool yesterday and colder today. High today was 48. It actually sleeted this evening.
We walked to the mall by the Walmart. AK fell asleep. For some reason a lot of the stores were closed. We found a few toys for gifts. Kevin got to use his Chinese at the toy store. We ate at KFC, but it was not the same.
We played in the hall with friends. AK did not seem to like the large group. A few people went on a tour of a temple and Kung fu, but it was a 2 hour drive, so we passed. Later AK took a good nap and we played some more. This has been the best day so far. I hope this trend continues. She did not have any meltdowns and has done much better when Kevin takes her. She still does not request Kevin, but doesn't scream and throw her head and body backwards when he takes her.
Tomorrow we leave for Guangzhou, the final leg of the trip. We received AK's passport today. I had heard there is great shopping a Guangzhou, but I found out that the government closed a lot of that area. We still have things to get AK and family. I packed our stuff for tomorrow and not sure how the gifts are getting back.
The weather here is so strange. It has been upper 80's and 90's until yesterday. It was cool yesterday and colder today. High today was 48. It actually sleeted this evening.
We walked to the mall by the Walmart. AK fell asleep. For some reason a lot of the stores were closed. We found a few toys for gifts. Kevin got to use his Chinese at the toy store. We ate at KFC, but it was not the same.
We played in the hall with friends. AK did not seem to like the large group. A few people went on a tour of a temple and Kung fu, but it was a 2 hour drive, so we passed. Later AK took a good nap and we played some more. This has been the best day so far. I hope this trend continues. She did not have any meltdowns and has done much better when Kevin takes her. She still does not request Kevin, but doesn't scream and throw her head and body backwards when he takes her.
Tomorrow we leave for Guangzhou, the final leg of the trip. We received AK's passport today. I had heard there is great shopping a Guangzhou, but I found out that the government closed a lot of that area. We still have things to get AK and family. I packed our stuff for tomorrow and not sure how the gifts are getting back.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Day 9 - Rest Day
We had a better night. She fell asleep with me in bed. She had one outburst during the night, but after that she did fine and I was able to slip out of bed to get some sleep. Our group was going to the Aquarium today, but we decided not to go. We needed a sleep in day. AK slept till around 7:30. She is still eating great. She does not like watermelon. Otherwise, she likes peaches, pineapple, dragon fruit, rice, noodles, banana bread, bacon, fries, and chicken. She is not like my Bennett.
We got out and walked around today since she let me carry her with the carrier. It was a much cooler day. It felt so good since our rooms are still so hot. We walked to this part about a block away. The park was huge. AK seemed to like the outside. We ended up at McDonalds and ate lunch there. Kevin says the burgers are not the same. I got chicken nuggets since I don't know how to get a plain burger. I tried at the hotel and got bread with lettuce and tomato, no meat. It took room service three tries to understand me. We got a lot of stares while walking. You sometimes forget that you look different.
Today was the first day that AK struggled to take a nap. She had her worse melt down today. It lasted 40 minutes. She would not let me or Kevin hold her. She throws herself back. She did finally take to Kevin a little today. I asked her to take something to BaBa and she took it to Kevin. Then she sat in his lap for over thirty minutes. Kevin went to our group meeting and me and AK played with her toys. She loves giving you something and getting it back or taking things to each person. When she laughs it is so quite and sounds like a dog panting. He He He. AK also seems tall. Bennett has just gotten to tall for 12 months pants, but 12 months pants for AK are capris. She also has big feet. The shoes I had brought based on Bennett's size are too small.
Tommorrow is another rest day. The weather is not suppose to be good, so don't think we are having any tours. Continue to pray for her attachment to Kevin and for us. Sometimes the meltdowns though natural are hard to handle. I can only imagine what her life has been like. Now being with complete strangers that look like no one she has ever seen before and sound foreign, that alone would be frightening.
We got out and walked around today since she let me carry her with the carrier. It was a much cooler day. It felt so good since our rooms are still so hot. We walked to this part about a block away. The park was huge. AK seemed to like the outside. We ended up at McDonalds and ate lunch there. Kevin says the burgers are not the same. I got chicken nuggets since I don't know how to get a plain burger. I tried at the hotel and got bread with lettuce and tomato, no meat. It took room service three tries to understand me. We got a lot of stares while walking. You sometimes forget that you look different.
Today was the first day that AK struggled to take a nap. She had her worse melt down today. It lasted 40 minutes. She would not let me or Kevin hold her. She throws herself back. She did finally take to Kevin a little today. I asked her to take something to BaBa and she took it to Kevin. Then she sat in his lap for over thirty minutes. Kevin went to our group meeting and me and AK played with her toys. She loves giving you something and getting it back or taking things to each person. When she laughs it is so quite and sounds like a dog panting. He He He. AK also seems tall. Bennett has just gotten to tall for 12 months pants, but 12 months pants for AK are capris. She also has big feet. The shoes I had brought based on Bennett's size are too small.
Tommorrow is another rest day. The weather is not suppose to be good, so don't think we are having any tours. Continue to pray for her attachment to Kevin and for us. Sometimes the meltdowns though natural are hard to handle. I can only imagine what her life has been like. Now being with complete strangers that look like no one she has ever seen before and sound foreign, that alone would be frightening.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Day 8 - Travel to Puyang
We had a rough night. AK has attached, but with me. Kevin did get her to sleep last night like the night before. However, she woke up at 2 am and I was the only thing that would calm her down. She fell back asleep, but she would not let me sit or lay down. I finally was able to sit in a chair with her. Me sitting upright and Kevin snoring meant no sleep for me. Finally at 5 am, I had to give her to Kevin whether she liked it or not. Then thirty minutes later the alarm went off.
We left at 8 am to travel to Puyang, AK's birth city, to do the passport paperwork. We had heard from the families that went yesterday that it took a while. It took us about 3 hours to get there. We saw the Yellow River. From outside Zhengzhou to Puyang was wheat fields. We also saw the bullet train. I had learned about it from Disney's Choo Choo Soul. AK slept the entire trip.
When we arrived the orphanage director came to the van. I was concerned that AK would want her, but it was the exact opposite. She was scared of her. There were only two people there, but we did not have to wait. We signed a form and Had a picture made of AK for her passport. We were done in 3 minutes.
The trip back was harder. AK got fussy so we had to stop at a service station. She finally calmed down and then slept the rest of the way back. With no air in the van, we were soaked when we got back.
We are having to force her to be with Kevin. So Kevin took her this afternoon so I could get a nap. She seemed to do fine and played in the hallway.
Tomorrow they are offering a tour to the aquarium. We have decided to not go. One we are tired. Two we cannot hold her the entire time. Maybe we can help increase the attachment with Kevin.
We left at 8 am to travel to Puyang, AK's birth city, to do the passport paperwork. We had heard from the families that went yesterday that it took a while. It took us about 3 hours to get there. We saw the Yellow River. From outside Zhengzhou to Puyang was wheat fields. We also saw the bullet train. I had learned about it from Disney's Choo Choo Soul. AK slept the entire trip.
When we arrived the orphanage director came to the van. I was concerned that AK would want her, but it was the exact opposite. She was scared of her. There were only two people there, but we did not have to wait. We signed a form and Had a picture made of AK for her passport. We were done in 3 minutes.
The trip back was harder. AK got fussy so we had to stop at a service station. She finally calmed down and then slept the rest of the way back. With no air in the van, we were soaked when we got back.
We are having to force her to be with Kevin. So Kevin took her this afternoon so I could get a nap. She seemed to do fine and played in the hallway.
Tomorrow they are offering a tour to the aquarium. We have decided to not go. One we are tired. Two we cannot hold her the entire time. Maybe we can help increase the attachment with Kevin.
Observations of China
One thing I failed to note in my earlier posts that you may notice in the pictures is that AK has a black eye. We were told when we arrived in Zhengzhou that she had fallen on a toy and bruised her eye. So we were not surprised by it.
China is hard to describe. In Beijing and Zhengzhou you have these mega cities with skyscrapers that go on for miles. At the same time, you have people riding old bikes and scooters. It is a mix of old and Western world. Culturally it is no surprise that it is also very different. We were prepared for some of these differences, but the spitting and clearing the throat is still gross.
Kevin had read that they have squatty potties, but it is hard to really understand what this is. Basically it looks like you put the bowl of the toilet in the ground. You put your legs on either side of the bowl and squat. You are lucky if you find toilet paper. This has not really bothered me. I brought my own toilet paper and in some ways not having to sit on a nasty toilet is okay. Dawn - I don't know how you missed getting to experience the squatty potties. Other than the hotel, it is the only way to use the bathroom.
We also had read that everyone in China has to take English. Our CCAI guide confirmed this; however, very few people seem to understand English. The reason for this is that most Chinese can read English, but since they don't get the opportunity to interact with Americans they are not able to practice their English. Also the value of the education they received also makes a difference.
In reading about some of the Chinese laws (one child law), it seem harsh and really not something government should be involved in. But until you visit and actually see all the people and traffic, it seems more logical. The one child law does have many exceptions. If China continued to grow at the rate it had been, then it could leave to famine and may other issues.
On another note, thank you for all that have posted comments. It means a lot to Kevin and I for you to follow us, pray for us, and receive your encouragement. We have been here a week and have a week and half to go. I know for me, I am ready to be back home. Hotel life has gotten old. My diet of granola bars, pop tarts, and cheeze its has gotten old. The convenience of toilets and air conditioners is something I will never take for granted again.
China is hard to describe. In Beijing and Zhengzhou you have these mega cities with skyscrapers that go on for miles. At the same time, you have people riding old bikes and scooters. It is a mix of old and Western world. Culturally it is no surprise that it is also very different. We were prepared for some of these differences, but the spitting and clearing the throat is still gross.
Kevin had read that they have squatty potties, but it is hard to really understand what this is. Basically it looks like you put the bowl of the toilet in the ground. You put your legs on either side of the bowl and squat. You are lucky if you find toilet paper. This has not really bothered me. I brought my own toilet paper and in some ways not having to sit on a nasty toilet is okay. Dawn - I don't know how you missed getting to experience the squatty potties. Other than the hotel, it is the only way to use the bathroom.
We also had read that everyone in China has to take English. Our CCAI guide confirmed this; however, very few people seem to understand English. The reason for this is that most Chinese can read English, but since they don't get the opportunity to interact with Americans they are not able to practice their English. Also the value of the education they received also makes a difference.
In reading about some of the Chinese laws (one child law), it seem harsh and really not something government should be involved in. But until you visit and actually see all the people and traffic, it seems more logical. The one child law does have many exceptions. If China continued to grow at the rate it had been, then it could leave to famine and may other issues.
On another note, thank you for all that have posted comments. It means a lot to Kevin and I for you to follow us, pray for us, and receive your encouragement. We have been here a week and have a week and half to go. I know for me, I am ready to be back home. Hotel life has gotten old. My diet of granola bars, pop tarts, and cheeze its has gotten old. The convenience of toilets and air conditioners is something I will never take for granted again.
Gotcha Day Photos
Here are some long awaited photos from Gotcha Day.
Anna Mei
Fantz Family
Gaw Family
Registration Office
Day 7 - Adoption official
We had a good night. About 9 she fell asleep with me holding her, but when I put her in the crib we started all over. So when she fell back asleep I laid down in bed with her own me. A few hours later I slipped out. So she slept all night till around 7.
For breakfast she ate everything we offered her peaches, pineapple, rice, noodles, and yogurt. I figured out what pear water is. Her info sheet said they gave her this. It is pear boiled in water. Then you put the pears in this machine that separates the juice from the pulp. She loved this.
After breakfast we skyped with Jaime and Bennett. He seemed to be doing so good. I miss him so much. Jaime said he did okay after seeing us, but we did not.
At 9:30 we went back to the Registration Office to be given our certificate and have a small ceremony. So it is now official that Anna Katelin Wright is our daughter. After this we went to the notary office. I was warned that this trip will require endurance, but no one mentioned carry a child up six flights of stairs. The office building did not have an elevator. At this office we signed some more papers and got our picture made. Then we were done for the day. Some families left today to go to the city of the orphanage to apply for a passport, but our trip is tomorrow.
AK really came out of her shell this afternoon. She played with toys, walked, ran, laughed, and let Nanna hold her. Since we still do not have air, we played in the hall where it was cooler. She had a night terror during her nap. She threw herself back and started screaming. We could not hold her. It took us a while to figure out that she was not awake. I called her name (Ying Ying) and she opened her eyes. Then she let me hold her and she calmed down. We are now starting to see her personality and the affects of living in an orphanage. We will need to educate ourselves on how to handle this and how to disciple her. She can be aggressive, but then can share with the other kids. She grinds her teeth when mad. She pulls her hair when tired. It is sad to wonder what her life has been like the last 15 months.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day. We leave at 8 to travel to Puyang. I got the pictures downloaded today and hope to post soon. Life is a little crazy.
For breakfast she ate everything we offered her peaches, pineapple, rice, noodles, and yogurt. I figured out what pear water is. Her info sheet said they gave her this. It is pear boiled in water. Then you put the pears in this machine that separates the juice from the pulp. She loved this.
After breakfast we skyped with Jaime and Bennett. He seemed to be doing so good. I miss him so much. Jaime said he did okay after seeing us, but we did not.
At 9:30 we went back to the Registration Office to be given our certificate and have a small ceremony. So it is now official that Anna Katelin Wright is our daughter. After this we went to the notary office. I was warned that this trip will require endurance, but no one mentioned carry a child up six flights of stairs. The office building did not have an elevator. At this office we signed some more papers and got our picture made. Then we were done for the day. Some families left today to go to the city of the orphanage to apply for a passport, but our trip is tomorrow.
AK really came out of her shell this afternoon. She played with toys, walked, ran, laughed, and let Nanna hold her. Since we still do not have air, we played in the hall where it was cooler. She had a night terror during her nap. She threw herself back and started screaming. We could not hold her. It took us a while to figure out that she was not awake. I called her name (Ying Ying) and she opened her eyes. Then she let me hold her and she calmed down. We are now starting to see her personality and the affects of living in an orphanage. We will need to educate ourselves on how to handle this and how to disciple her. She can be aggressive, but then can share with the other kids. She grinds her teeth when mad. She pulls her hair when tired. It is sad to wonder what her life has been like the last 15 months.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day. We leave at 8 to travel to Puyang. I got the pictures downloaded today and hope to post soon. Life is a little crazy.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Day 6 - Gotcha Day
Well I had a rough night. I was up vomiting and stomach issues. I got no sleep. Not sure if it was the food or nerves, but at 4 am I was still sick and we were leaving at 9:30 to get AK. At 7 am I called Yisha to get her advice. I continued taking pepto and drinking water. Around 8:45, I felt well enough to get dressed. I could not miss this day.
At 9:30 we left for the registration office. It took about 30 minutes to get there. Traffic is still awful here. Air pollution is worse. We were told the children may arrive at different times due to distance to travel. AK had the furthest to travel.
When we go into the registration office there were already a few babies there. It was the most amazing site to get to watch the families meet their babies. Each baby seemed to handle the situation differently. Some screamed, some did nothing, some seemed happy.
We waited and waited. Finally we were told AK was 2 minutes away. She was the last one to arrive. We got to watch the van pull up and see her being carried by her caregivers to us. Though it was hard to wait, it was perfect. By the time she arrived everything had calmed down which helped me better handle the situation.
At first site, she is beautiful. Her caregivers hand her to me. She did not want to let go of them. She cried some. She held on to the doll we had sent her. After giving her some puffs, she did great. She went to Kevin easily. Then we got our picture made, signed some documents, and headed back to hotel.
AK ate some bananas, crackers, puffs, or everything we offered her. Kevin got her to nap on him and we got some rest. Later I had to go to a paperwork meeting. She had a great day, but was super clinging to us. She had to be held and wanted you to stand up holding her. That gets tiring quickly.
We attempted a bath, but she screamed so we just had a sponge bath. With two layers of clothes in 90 degree heat, we all needed a bath.
She fell asleep while I was holding her, but she did not want to go in the crib. She would not go to Kevin, so I finally got her back to sleep and eased myself into bed. She laid on me with a death grip holding me. About two hours later, I slipped out and she slept by herself on the adult bed.
Overall it was a great day. You cannot imagine what it is like. Although I have a son close to the same age, it is so different.
At 9:30 we left for the registration office. It took about 30 minutes to get there. Traffic is still awful here. Air pollution is worse. We were told the children may arrive at different times due to distance to travel. AK had the furthest to travel.
When we go into the registration office there were already a few babies there. It was the most amazing site to get to watch the families meet their babies. Each baby seemed to handle the situation differently. Some screamed, some did nothing, some seemed happy.
We waited and waited. Finally we were told AK was 2 minutes away. She was the last one to arrive. We got to watch the van pull up and see her being carried by her caregivers to us. Though it was hard to wait, it was perfect. By the time she arrived everything had calmed down which helped me better handle the situation.
At first site, she is beautiful. Her caregivers hand her to me. She did not want to let go of them. She cried some. She held on to the doll we had sent her. After giving her some puffs, she did great. She went to Kevin easily. Then we got our picture made, signed some documents, and headed back to hotel.
AK ate some bananas, crackers, puffs, or everything we offered her. Kevin got her to nap on him and we got some rest. Later I had to go to a paperwork meeting. She had a great day, but was super clinging to us. She had to be held and wanted you to stand up holding her. That gets tiring quickly.
We attempted a bath, but she screamed so we just had a sponge bath. With two layers of clothes in 90 degree heat, we all needed a bath.
She fell asleep while I was holding her, but she did not want to go in the crib. She would not go to Kevin, so I finally got her back to sleep and eased myself into bed. She laid on me with a death grip holding me. About two hours later, I slipped out and she slept by herself on the adult bed.
Overall it was a great day. You cannot imagine what it is like. Although I have a son close to the same age, it is so different.
Day 5 - Travel to Zhengzhou
We had an early start departing from the hotel at 7 am to go to the Beijing airport. Flight departed later than scheduled, but it was a short flight ~ little over an hour. CCAI reps Yisha and Vivian met us at airport. We took a 40 minute bus ride to hotel. We received an info sheet on our babies. AK sounds like an angel. It gave us her routine, foods she eats, toys she likes, and names of her friends.
We arrived at the Crown Plaza Hotel. Very nice rooms, but no air. It has been cool in Zhengzhou till now so HVAC system set to heat. We had to request fans to help with the heat. This hotel has some Western restaurants, so that is good news for me.
After getting unpacked and grabbing a late lunch (pizza), I went with a group to the bank to get money exchanged. Since we are needing a large amount exchanged, we had to go to the bank. This took 1 1/2 hours. The process was crazy, but I enjoyed getting to talk to the different families.
Then we came back to hotel to get the group to go to Walmart. It is a three story Walmart. Very different from ours. We got AK some formula, cereal, toys, and diapers.
After getting back, we went to Mamma Mia's to eat. It was really good. Then we had to prepare the money, gifts, and paperwork for the Big Day.
So tomorrow is the day we have been praying for four years. We are filled with many emotions. Tomorrow we become a family of four.
We arrived at the Crown Plaza Hotel. Very nice rooms, but no air. It has been cool in Zhengzhou till now so HVAC system set to heat. We had to request fans to help with the heat. This hotel has some Western restaurants, so that is good news for me.
After getting unpacked and grabbing a late lunch (pizza), I went with a group to the bank to get money exchanged. Since we are needing a large amount exchanged, we had to go to the bank. This took 1 1/2 hours. The process was crazy, but I enjoyed getting to talk to the different families.
Then we came back to hotel to get the group to go to Walmart. It is a three story Walmart. Very different from ours. We got AK some formula, cereal, toys, and diapers.
After getting back, we went to Mamma Mia's to eat. It was really good. Then we had to prepare the money, gifts, and paperwork for the Big Day.
So tomorrow is the day we have been praying for four years. We are filled with many emotions. Tomorrow we become a family of four.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Day 4 - China Tour - Great Wall
We had a great nights sleep and started our day at 8 am. We had great weather again today, maybe a little more overcast. Beijing traffic is something I have never seen or experienced before. It is horrible at all times every day. Our first stop was a Jade Factory. We got a tour about Jade and how it is crafted into jewelry and sculptures. We got AK two nice gifts there.
We then proceeded to the Great Wall. This was another amazing site. Kevin decided that we would climb the steeper, but shorter route. We climbed to the first tower and got some great pictures. The steps were 2+ feet high and uneven. It was a tough climb, but going down was worse with weak legs. Although for us the Great Wall was the true site to get pictures, this was not the case for the other tourists. We (Americans) were the site. Everyone in our group had people constantly coming up to them to get their picture made with us. The children in our group had it the worse and if you had blond hair they would not leave you alone. It was so funny. We all now know what it feels like to be a celebrity.
After the Great Wall, we went to a huge restaurant for another family style Chinese lunch. I enjoyed this meal. They had chicken tenders! Hooray! The restaurant also had a souvenir shop which we got a few more gifts.
Then we took a short stop at the 2008 Olympic Park. I did not think about getting to see this. We did not have long here, but got some great pictures.
Lastly, we saw an acrobatic show. It was good, but not Cirque Du Soleil.
Tomorrow is a travel day. We have to meet at 7 am to leave for the airport.
We then proceeded to the Great Wall. This was another amazing site. Kevin decided that we would climb the steeper, but shorter route. We climbed to the first tower and got some great pictures. The steps were 2+ feet high and uneven. It was a tough climb, but going down was worse with weak legs. Although for us the Great Wall was the true site to get pictures, this was not the case for the other tourists. We (Americans) were the site. Everyone in our group had people constantly coming up to them to get their picture made with us. The children in our group had it the worse and if you had blond hair they would not leave you alone. It was so funny. We all now know what it feels like to be a celebrity.
After the Great Wall, we went to a huge restaurant for another family style Chinese lunch. I enjoyed this meal. They had chicken tenders! Hooray! The restaurant also had a souvenir shop which we got a few more gifts.
Then we took a short stop at the 2008 Olympic Park. I did not think about getting to see this. We did not have long here, but got some great pictures.
Lastly, we saw an acrobatic show. It was good, but not Cirque Du Soleil.
Tomorrow is a travel day. We have to meet at 7 am to leave for the airport.
Great Wall
View from Fort at Great Wall
Bird's Nest
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