Waiting for Julia: Born in our hearts

Five Months Forever Family/Chinese New Year

2012-01-22T15:53:00.000-08:00

Kung Hei Fat Choy!!

This year we had planned to go to the Chinese Cultural Center for a two day festival. Due to yucky weather and not wanting to get sick before surgery, plans changed. We sent our Chinese New Year cards, ate chinese food, decorated our house and read lots of books on Chinese New Year. Red envelopes will be involved too.

On Saturday, we had a family day. All of us hung out together. We went to our local chinese restaraunt. The owner tried to teach Julia how to say "Kung Hei Fat Choy!!" It was so cute. Then, we walked around the mall for two hours. Julia got a pair of new patent leather mary janes and a new purse. She just loves purses. She had to pick one out of two that she carried around. We also toured the American Girl store. That was fun!

On Sunday, Julia stayed home. She was showing signs of a cold. Did not want to take any chances. We have a busy week ahead of us before surgery on the 30th. Hopefully, next year we will make the Festival. Our Families of Chinese Children's event is 2/4. That is the Satuday after surgery. Won't make that either. These events will make next year just that much more fun!!

Happy Chinese New Year!!

Julia's Photoshoot by Mama

2012-01-15T05:08:00.000-08:00

Julia was scheduled for a professional picture on Saturday morning. Mama always wants Julia to put on this little hat. Mama puts it on. Julia takes it off. This morning Mama put it on. Julia did not take it off. Mama knew that this might not last long. She took her outside with her "good" camera. (The SLR camera she has that she does not use enough due to it being bigger than her point and shoot.) Mama snapped pictures of Julia while she was running, playing and enjoying the cold and long drive way. These were just a few of the many Mama took.

These next few pictures are Julia's facial expressions just warm my heart. She is so full of fun and giggles!!! She loves a good purse.

Julia is pointing to the sky. Goggy and I talk about how she can hear planes before they are even in eyesight. I looked up saw nothing. About a minute later-there the plane was flying overhead. She is actually getting ear tubes when she has her surgery on January 30th. Crazy, huh?

Love this one. Looks like a little lady waiting for someone.

Mama's favorite. Her skin looks like porcelain to me.

We love you, our sweet Julia girl!!

(She wore the hat for the professional picture. Our favorite was one with her sitting on a park bench with snow behind her on a cell phone.)

Stay at Home Weekend

2012-01-08T19:39:00.001-08:00

After the build up of the holidays and our family emergency last weekend, we deemed it STAY AT HOME weekend. Julia was so happy to just stay at home. First thing on Saturday morning, she put her black patent Mary Janes on and they only came off for her bath. She even napped with them on.

One thing about staying at home is that you become one with your own toys. Julia, Mama and Daddy had a great time!!

Julia found her medical kit and gave her Baby some medication drops. She was so excited!

Baby took with no difficulty.

Julia found her purse that was bought in China. She also loaded up her bag with Baby's bottles and medical kit. She found her sweet friend-"Audrey" sitting on her chair. She yapped to her a little.

"Look, Mama!! My long lost friends from the Cabbage Patch kids home-MoMo the Monkey."

Julia decided that Baby needed a stroller ride.

She loaded herself up with bags. Then, walked her dear Baby.

Julia's purse strap kept slipping off her arm. Walking with all this stuff is a little harder than it looks.

"Mama, Momo is sticking out of my bag. Please push him in and zip him up!!!"

Mama showed Julia a pair of light up shoes that she has for her to wear soon. Mama thought Julia would want to try them on. NOOO!! She wanted Baby to wear them.

Finally, Julia figured a way to keep them on her feet. These ~~boots~~(shoes) were NOT made for walking!

Sunday morning!!! Mam finally cleaned out under the kitchen island. Julia realized that she could sit in it.

She was patting the spot next to her which is her cue to sit by me. UHHH!! We had to explain that Mama or Daddy could fit in the island with her.

Daddy!!Please give me a blueberry!!! Can't you see my tongue has nothing on it. OK, my face is full of yogurt.

Since Julia had fleece footie jammies, she could not wear her mary janes this morning. Instead, it was all about the bibs. She wanted to wear four!!! All morning!!! She did not want to take them off all morning!! She even worked in her own kitchen with them on. She looks like she needs some coffee in this picture. Ha!

Play-Doh time!!! Yippee!! Finally, the bibs came off. Julia thought they were getting in her way.

Went from cutting play-doh to stacking cups.

Gogs and Paps came over for a visit. Julia wanted Gogs to wear her shoes.

Hmm. They just won't stay on her feet either!!

Had an awesome dinner where Julia ate the Green Bean casserole that Aunt Neen brought over. Yummy!! She licked the plate clean. It took two forks to get it all.

We had much needed downtime. It was great to spend time as a family. Julia is just growing up so quickly. We just love our sweet girl!!

Ready to Visit Gog's House

2012-01-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

It's Friday!! Julia is getting ready to go spend the day with Goggy and Pappy.

Serving her friends some tea before she leaves.

So excited!! Ready now!

My First Haircut

2012-01-02T19:49:00.000-08:00

Daddy is home. It is Mama's birthday. Julia's long bangs has been driving Daddy crazy. He wants to see his girl's eyes. Mama agreed.

Julia got her first haircut at Pigtails and Crewcuts. Mama was worried that she would not cooperate. That would go on the fact that she did not want to put on her socks before they left.

When we walked in the door, Julia noticed all the toys and bows at her level. She then became enamored with a train table by the waiting area. Thomas the Tank!! The only time Julia gets to play with Thomas is when she has Speech with Ms. Dawn. She played and played. When they called her name, they asked her what seat she would like to sit in. We just picked the plane.

She sat so good. She did not cry. She actually drove the plane.

Wow!! Julia loves this place. Well, maybe not the wet hair on her neck but their toys are the best.

Ms. Marjoire gave her a butterfly to look at when she was evening out the back of her hair.

All done. Scared to move.

Julia was ready to get off her plane. As we left, she decided that she wanted to ride the fire truck next time. She also picked a bracelet and pirate tatoo from the treasure chest.

New Years Eve Day 2011

2012-01-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

Julia spent lots of time with Goggy over the last couple days. Daddy has not been home. Everyday, mama would take Julia to Goggy's for a long visit. Mama would pick up Julia when it was almost time to go to bed. Since Daddy was gone on New Years Eve, Goggy, Aunt and Mama thought we could spend a little time at the mall for some fun. Goggy picked up Julia and Mama for their adventure.
After Julia ate a plate of her favorite-noodles, Goggy took cousins to the ride the Merry Go Round. Notice that one cousin has gotten to old to ride it. We know that because he told us that he really did not want to ride it anymore.

Goggy and Julia. Their infamous pose. Riding the big elephant. Julia was a little tired.

Build a Bear Workshop was the next stop. How exciting!! None of them had ever been there.

Julia was looking around.

Aunt took her down the row of Bears. She kept pointing to the next one. When Julia saw this Daschaund, she hugged it like a long lost friend. Later, we realized that her favorite book now is "Snuggle Puppy Love Song" by Sandra Boynton. That dog looked just like the one she picked.

Julia looked around for clothes while waiting for the stuffing station.

Julia had her orientation to the stuffing station. She was ready.

She pushed the stuffing foot pedal while her own Snuggle Puppy grew.

There he is!!!

She placed his heart in his body. She picked a red and white gingham heart.

Julia washing Snuggle Puppy at the washing station.

Cousin got the same dog. They both had purely independent choices. He wanted a real dog for Christmas. I guess he thought this one would take its place.

The salesman helped Julia pick out a cute dress for her girl Snuggle Puppy.

This is Julia's Snuggle Puppy. She also added red bows on her ears.

Cousin made a UGA Dog. He was proud!! Just like his daddy.

Other cousin got an Alvin. He got jammies and some khaki shorts.

Mama and Julia creating Snuggle Puppy's birth certificate.

Auntie and Goggy helping cousins with their birth certificates.

Julia playing on their computers.

What a great time we all had!!! Goggy dropped Mama off at some big building. Julia fell asleep in the car. She woke up at Goggy's house.

Before Bed, Mama and Julia read the book called "The Night before New Years Eve". We said our prayers for Daddy. We were also very thankful that we would be starting 2012 as a family of three!!! God continues to watch over us. God is so faithful!!! We are so blessed.

Happy New Year to all of your families!!! We pray 2012 is the best yet !

First Christmas

2011-12-25T21:20:00.000-08:00

Julia woke Daddy and Mama up at 7am. She kept pointing to the door. She was so excited. We could not believe it. She actually got it. We have read books all through December about Jesus's birthday. We would also read books about Santa. We saw Santa several times. She knew. She knew he had come to our house.

Daddy and Julia walking into the living room to see what Santa brought.

Julia found a big bag with her name on it. This was the bag that Santa brought just for Julia.

Santa ate most of the cookies. Julia was about to take what he did not eat.

No milk. He must have been thirsty.

Time to get started opening the bag.

No problem opening up the gifts.

A cooking set. Julia had her first gift totally out of the box playing. We had to tell her to open her next gift.

Finally, started again.

Mrs. Potato Head. Very interesting!!

Next.

Julia is known for totally cleaning up her messes. Here she is putting her scraps in the trash.

After opening her gifts up from Santa, we pointed out that there was something in the corner.

She found it!! She was totally elated!! She went straight to work.

She was adding water to her pot,

Heating up her bowl in the microwave.

Busy little girl. Cooking cupcakes.

Serving her friends at her table.

Julia-You have a stocking. Check it out!!!

Presents from Mama and Daddy!! Awesome new books.

Julia got this doll named Ling Ling. Mama had bought it for her on one of her adventures to New York. When she saw the doll, she quickly looked for her doll. It was like she looked like she could not be unloyal to her baby. Mama and Daddy explained that you can more than one doll to love. She was not convinced at that moment. Though, we noticed her touching her later in the day.

This was a gift that Julia made for Mama and Daddy in School.

After a nap, we all got up. Time to celebrate Daddy's birthday. Julia and Mama gave Daddy a praying man statue. He really liked it. It went straight to his desk.

Waiting for Aunt S and Uncle R to come over. Julia played.

More presents-Disney Princesses.

Disney Princess stationary set!! Love it!! It has a handle.

Rockin' Elmo was the best!! Julia dances with him. Thank you Aunt and Unc.

.We ended our evening at Marietta Diner to celebrate Daddy's birthday!! What an awesome first Christmas!!!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

Julia started Christmas eve morning with a video message from Santa. She had to listen to it several times. We had a big day today. Mama's family always celebrates on Christmas Eve.

Julia tried to decide what to wear from her Christmas attire.

We got to Gogs and Pappy's around 10am.

Cousin showed her how to shoot his nerf gun. She was totally excited.

Then, cousin read her a story. She loves for someone to read to her.

Time for breakfast. Julia was ready for food.

All around the table for our breakfast.

After breakfast, Julia got tired pretty quick. She has really gotten on a schedule since starting school. We went home and took a nap. When we woke up, we went to the kids version of the nativiity

Both Julia's cousins sang. Unc J also was in it. She loves to hear him sing.

Everyone uses glow sticks during Silent Night.

When it was over, Julia tried to feed her baby with the glow stick. Baby looks happy.

Then, we went to eat at the Canton House.

Please pass the rice.

Done with dinner. Julia was getting serious. On her way to Goggy and Pappy. Ready to see what is next.

Here I am.

Still not sure what is going on. She is having a good time.

Present? Julia opens with a little help

More.

Julia loves bags. It could entertain her for hours. Here she is again. Just got gifts and playing with the bags.

When I see her stocking at my mom's house, it just reminds me of the best gift we got this year-our sweet daughter.

Home. Ready for Santa. Cookies and milk out. Books, excitement and total exhaustion.

Merry Christmas!!!

Making Christmas Cookies

2011-12-23T18:09:00.000-08:00

We found a book called "The Holly Jolly Christmas" at the Methodist church Christmas festival. It cost us all of twenty cents. It is only five pages long. It has been one of Julia's favorite. She had mama and daddy sing it over and over. It goes something like this "Its a holly jolly Christmas, we decorate with cheer. We bake Christmas cookies, soon Santa will be here..." When we started baking, Julia knew. Santa will soon be here.

Daddy and Julia worked with the cookie cutters while mama was making colored icing.

Someon is eating the dough!!! No dough!! No dough!! You can have a cookie when it is cooked.

Julia playing a game with mama.

Daddy back to work. What is Julia doing? I guess she needed to take her socks off to be able to cut cookies better. Makes sense to me??

OH, NO!! This is not looking good. Trying to explain how to make them. She is wanting the icing.

We said she could have a cooked cookie. Just not like this!

So happy!!

Wow!! Julia was tired after all that cookie decorating.

The end result...We have a couple cookies for Santa. We will share with our family and friends.

After a long bath and some lotion, Julia shows baby total love. This baby just makes her happy. She gets so excited to see her and hold her.

Friends forever.

Chuck E Cheese/Four Month Forever Family

2011-12-22T19:34:00.000-08:00

December 22 is a big day for us two. Two reasons. One is it is our cousin's birthday. The other is that we have been a forever family for FOUR months.

Julia ate her first Chuck E. Cheese pizza.

Chuck came by for a picture. Julia does not like Chuck. We should have known!!! So, this picture did not work out as planned.

Nothing like riding in the car with your cousin.

Both cousins hit the big time. Notice the youngest cousin on the TV screens. The oldest is running to get on TV.

Julia did love the mini carousel.

Cousin with "Transformer" cake.

Julia with Unc.

Julia dancing on TV with Pappy.

There they are!! See the two little heads on TV!

Now, Julia wanted to direct.

Chatty Chunk E called Julia.

Here she comes!

Last ride.

At home, mommy wanted Julia to pose for her Four month Family Forever picture. That did not quite work out well.

Not sure if I should be posting this picture but it is the best one of all of them. It shows Julia's determination. She was busy trying to put her sock on. Do NOT show her. She can DO it!! She will work through it.

Our sweet Julia-

We are so proud to call you our daughter. We love you!!! We cannot wait to experience the future with you. We know God has a big plan for you. We are so excited to see it unfold. You continue to be such a brave girl. We are so proud of you!!

Love, Mama and Daddy

Christmas on Peachtree

2011-12-20T19:50:00.000-08:00

Saturday was family day!!!

We had to start with a good breakfast. Baby used her bib. Julia and Baby had full bellies. They were ready to go.

We started off with a Christmas tree craft.

What do you think?

We walked through the snow.

Come on Daddy!!! Walk me through the snow!

Who are these cartoon networks characters? Why do they want us to get our pictures taken with them?

Decorating Gingerbread cookies with Mrs. Claus.

The best part was eating the icing.

Look, Daddy!!! There is a train.

Hanging out with Daddy under the Peach drop!!

Mommy and Julia at the Peach drop.

We left Christmas on the Peachtree. We went to Ikea. It was so much fun!!!
We ended our day at the Varsity. It was awesome!!!

Decorating our Gingerbread House

2011-12-10T19:43:00.001-08:00

After a long nap, we decided to decorate our Gingerbread house.

Mama was putting the white icing on the roof while Julia was tasting it. Once she started putting gumdrops on the roof, she ate a little less icing.

Things really started coming along.

Look Mama!! Icing all over!!!

Yummy!!

We even added coconut snow. There were two gingerbread men that came with our set. Those are gone! Julia and I both enjoyed one.

Look at our finished product. We had gingerbread fun!!!

First Candy Cane Breakfast

2011-12-10T19:14:00.001-08:00

Julia woke up early this morning to get ready for her first Candy Cane Breakfast. She was excited because she was going to see her Goggy, Pappy, Aunt, Unc and cousins. Mama got her dressed. She wanted to make sure her baby was ready for the breakfast.

Julia and baby ready. Both have holiday bows in their hair.

Julia knew her baby would have to eat before we left.

She took a little time to feedbaby.

Mama gave Julia a kiss in front of the Christmas tree.

When we got to the breakfuast, Goggy had saved our family's seats.

Goggy admired baby's hair bow.

Julia ate a variety of foods. Yummy!!!

There was a program telling the story of Christmas. They asked for the kids to come and sit down in the front. Julia walked up with her cousins.

She was listening. Then, decided to sit on the step.

Cousins sang some Christmas songs. Julia was so impressed.

She decided to sit on the step again.

When the choir sang, Julia rose to her feet.

Julia enjoyed spending time with her Unc.

Julia talked two guys about the candy canes they were eating. She definitely wanted one. This was the most exciting event. Our whole family will be back next year!!

Baby Dedication Sunday 12/4/11

2011-12-05T17:47:00.001-08:00

We looked forward to this special Sunday. It was Julia's Baby Dedication. We were so excited. It gave us a chance to give God the glory in this forever family forming. We know that Julia is not our daughter by chance at all. There was lots of prayers and support in our journey that would place our sweet girl in our arms in his perfect timing. It was not the easiest wait. There were lots and lots of hurdles. We knew God called us down this path. We were asked many questions. Can you change countries? Have you looked locally? None of those seemed right for us. We knew our daughter was in China. It got to the point where people were scared to bring it up. We even got to the point at times that we just could not talk about it.

We knew that God was not done with us yet. We knew that he was preparing for us just the perfect child in the his perfect timing. With all that said here we are-praising God for his faithfulness!!!

Our Blessing for Sweet Julia

Julia-May the Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face to shine upon you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26

First Thanksgiving: S'mores!!

2011-11-30T17:45:00.001-08:00

Daddy had a plan for out last night in the mountains. He had collected wood, s'more makings and sticks. Julia was ready to go out.

Daddy passed out sticks with marshmallows.

We roasted away. Who would have know that this was a first for all three cousins?

Roasting away.

Julia and Mommy watched the fire while Daddy made our s'more.

Cousin loved it.

Daddy is cooking away.

First bite....

Yummy!!

More!

Who cares if I am messy?

Daddy roasting away.

Julia was pointing for more. One day she will know that it is not polite to point.

Goggy with us while Julia ate her s'more.

All is good!!

Pappy and the boys. Cousin is roasting an apple just like Paps use to as a kid.

Perfect. Taste just likes apple pie.

Julia and cousin relaxing when it is all over.

Who said that you have to stand to play pool? What a wonderful weekend!!!

This Thanskgiving was the best yet. Looking forward to many more.

First Thanksgiving: Dollywood Adventure

2011-11-29T19:01:00.001-08:00

Most people shop after Thanksgiving. Our family went to Dollywood. It was definitely nice weather out to go on an adventure. The family had their picture taken on the Dollywood sleigh.

Pure bliss when your cousins hold your hand while you are in the stroller.

We thought this was perfect. "Pappy's Produce." Those three kids are the best produce ever!!

Julia and mommy waited in line for the cars.

Julia drove the pink car,

All was fine. No accidents. Just some rocking out to some rock music in the front seat.

The family posing in front of something.

Julia taking a break with Daddy.

Nothing like Cheerios.

A merry go round with the cousins.

Dumbo ride with mommy.

We went up and down.

Tea cups? Mommy wants to skip them next time.

The Pig ride. Fun!!! Rode with cousins.

The Bee ride Got to ride with the cousins.

Lucky Ducky. Julia's favorite ride. She bounced as she rode.

When she rode it again, she got in the back. Note: She propped her legs up on the back. Looks might bored now.

I see Santa.

More Bee rides.

Like to get Pappy's nose.

More Ducky rides. Laguh!!! LAugh!!!

Silly Goggy and cousin. Should we say-Silly Burger and Hot dog!!

First Thanksgiving: The Cabin

2011-11-29T18:17:00.001-08:00

For the last three years, my family has been renting a cabin in Pigeon Forge, TN for Thanksgiving weekend. This year was especially awesome. We booked this cabin last February hoping that Julia would be home by then. It was so exciting to think that she was going to be there when we found out about our April referral. My family picked out a huge yard for the kids.

Well, here it goes. Julia explored the yard with her cousins.

The yard was not only huge but a hill. Julia is listening to the rules of the soccer game.

She had enough. Julia went on to explore.

Daddy was cutting wood to make a fire for later on during the weekend. Lounging on the back of the truck.

Thanskgiving was extra speical this year. Pappy celebrated his birthday on the same day. I guess you could aslo say that Thatnksgiving fell on Pappy's birthday. We had a party for three days,

Pappy had a yummy cake. He also opened his presents.

Unc played games with Julia. She was so high on his shoulders.

A little pool anyone?

Julia's baby needed some rest.

What a beautiful Thanksfiving feast!

Playing doggie after dinner.

A little tea party before bed. We have so much to be thankful for this year!!!

First Visit with Santa

2011-11-21T15:00:00.001-08:00

After our Readoption, we decided to do a quick clothing change and head to the mall. Time to see Santa!!! Julia has been learning all about him. She loves to hear his stories. We have a big Santa at our house as a decoration. She points to him. We thought that she might be ready to finally meet him face to face.

Julia walked in with confidence to see Santa. She followed the red carpet.

Julia's first glimpse of Santa. Hmmmm. Interesting.

She walked up to wait in line.

Then, she spotted Daddy. Daddy had the camera. She seemed to look a little worried at that moment.

Mommy explained again-Santa is a nice man who visits every year. He brings presents to little girls and boys. Mommy did notice that she started putting her fingers in her mouth. First sign that she is a little anxious.

We waited in this awesome, short line.

There he is!!! Santa!! He is real!!

Mommy and Julia are next.

Mommy assures Julia that she will be ok. This man is Santa. The man we have read all the stories about.

Julia did not like sitting in this nice man who brings you presents lap one bit. She cried and cried.

She was so relieved to get out of his lap. She held onto the book he gave her. Mommy explained that we will probably see him alot more this year. He really is a nice guy. You will like him more later. She was ok with that.

We headed over to the soft play area. She started feeling better about everything again.

After some hard play, she just hung out for a while with Daddy.

Good Bye, Santa!! We can't wait to see you next time!!!!

Decorating for Christmas

2011-11-21T14:26:00.001-08:00

Excitement is in the air!! We are getting ready for a family trip to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN for Thanksgiving. We wanted to be ready for Christmas when we got home. Julia has been learning about Christmas through stories, books and Classic Christmas videos. We tell her the story of baby Jesus. We also explain Santa. She just wants us to read and read the stories.

This year decorating was so different. For five years, we have been waiting for Julia. It was so fun to show her things that were given to her throughout the years. Aunt and Unc had given her a stocking with her name on it. Goggy and Pappy gave her the ornament music ball last year. She is fascinated by it. Julia just stares as the skaters go in circles and the colors change. She will stand in front of it and pop her hips back and forth to the music.

We showed her the ornaments that were bought for her through the years. This one says "Waiting for Julia-Christmas 2007".

This beautiful ornament says "Julia-In our Hearts. Christmas 2008"

This ormanement has a Panda on it. It says "Waiting for Julia-2009".

We had bought this nativity for her years ago. It was so awesome to be able to pull it out of the box.

She loves it. She wants all the Little People to be able to stand on the manger where the angel stands. We keep telling her the story of baby Jesus. She just listens in awe.

Can you tell that she can feel the flash on the camera. She wonders about the donkey.

We definitely did not want Thanksgiving to get lost. We have so much to be thankful for this year. A little coloring of pilgrims and indians are always fun.

This season will be like no other for us. God is so faithful!!

Readoption Day

2011-11-21T14:02:00.001-08:00

Today was Julia's Readoption Day in Fulton County Courts. Our adoption was really on August 23, 2011 in China. This will just help our sweet girl in the future when getting a local birth certificate. It also helps with the paper trail.

We were in Judge Glanville's office waiting with a few other excited families who were adopting their children for the first time. Our attorney brought Julia a Panda Bear Beanie Baby. Julia was not really wanting a picture taken. She wanted to get back to looking at the two month old little girl who was sitting next to us. She was studying her mommy feed the baby her bottle. She is seriously in to feeding her own babies now with bottles now.

After the ceremony, we had a picture taken with the Judge. We were so glad to finally be in this court. Bitter sweet ending to a long a process!

My First Pink Pig Ride

2011-11-11T20:11:00.001-08:00

Mommy started work this week. In the middle of the week, Mommy had to take Julia for an evaluation for speech therapy. We were near Lenox. You know what that means!! We could not pass up this opportunity. It is almost Thanksgiving. The Pink Pig is open and not crowded. Julia is sitting at the bottom. She is very excited. While I was taking the picture, a guy walking in the mall was making her laugh.

"Mommy!! Look at that!!! She is so big!!" OK, she really said" AAAA!!! AAA!! AAAAA!"

Julia could not believe her size.

Jlia plopped herself on the train.

She just took it all in.

After ride one, we did it again!! The conductor took Mommy and Julia's picture.

It did take some time to get Julia off the train after the second ride. Finally, she left with the understanding that she would be returning. She went to pick out her "I rode the Pink Pig ornament. 2011"

Mommy was so exxcited because she finally got to share the Pink Pig with Julia.

Julia Attended her First Official Friend's Birthday Party

2011-11-11T20:01:00.001-08:00

Julia turned two. Julia had her first official invite to her party. She was very excited. It was at Sweet Apple park. Fun!!!!

Nicole is pushing the merry go around. Julia is sitting next to Meghan, Nicole's sister.

Meghan helped Julia go down a slide.

Here we are again. This time the birthday girl is in the middle. Everyone was having fun!

Time for pizza!! As usual, friends eating away.

Time for a Dora cupcake.

Julia was given a goody bag with playdough and a paint book. Two things that she never had done before. IT totally opened a new horizon for her. What a fun birthday party!!

Prep for Mommy Working, Vaccines and UAB Update

2011-11-11T19:29:00.001-08:00

The last week Mommy was off with Julia was spent pulling things together. Mommy went shopping for stuff for Julia and Mommy. When Mommy came home, she found Julia feeding her baby. It was the first time that Julia really nurtured her baby.

Goggy had gotten Julia these cool socks at an Art Festival. She loves them. They keep her feet warm when she is not wearing footie jammies.

This week also included four vaccines and day care forms filled our. Yuck!!! We had one miserable little Julia.

Julia, Mommy and Daddy traveled to UAB to meet Dr John Grant and the cleft team. We thought they were great. Dr Grant gave us facts. Dr. Grant said that 2.6 kids Julia's age develop fistulas after he closes the palates. If fistulas develop, he would just close them later. Our old doctor had said that "more than likely" she would develop fistulas. Daddy was like "Where do we sign?" He liked those odds. We saw everyone we needed to see that day. Julia's surgery is scheduled for January 30th.

We were told that Julia likes watermelon. She really did not eat it when when I would give it to her. I finally realized that she must eat it off the rind. I was cutting it. She totally enjoyed her piece.

Look at my watermelon mouth!!!

YUMMO!!!

My First Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for our Halloween get together. Goggy and Julia wore matching witch stickers.

Goggy cooked mac and cheese in the shape of pumpkins. Daddy grilled hotdogs.

Julia played with Mommy's fun glasses.

She really studied Goggy.

Look who came to visit-the cousins, Aunt and Unc.

Time for a quick dinner. Then, off to get get ready to hit the neighborhood.

We took pictures in front of our house. We have Iron Man, Ladybug and Bumble Bee.

Here they are walking around the yard.

Loving Cousins!!! Friends for Life!

Julia's sweet friend came over to trick or treat too. Julia was so excited. She loves to look up to her bigger friend. She was Ariel with beautiful Twinkle toe shoes that were purple.

Julia got first class treatment. She got to ride in the wagon. We went around the whole street. Julia thought she was suppose to go into one house. In a few other houses, she would sit on the ground and examine her candy. We taught her you put it in the pumpkin and keep going.

When we got home, Julia was taking her cousin's candy. Not to really eat but to pass around.

Finally, Julia realized that you are suppose to examine your own stuff not everyone elses.

It was a great Halloween. All enjoyed it!! Look forward to next year.

Halloween Dress Rehearsal at North Point Mall

2011-10-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we did a Halloween Dress rehearsal. As far as we know, Julia never dressed up in a costume before. Here it goes. Right off the bat, she had to collect her Cheerios.

Julia was exhausted after fighting the crowd in her stroller. Mommy needed to be sitting in it.

Look at me Daddy!!! See-I am a Ladybug!!!

Love my wagon!!

My antenna is in my eye.

Checking out her stuff from the mall.

We were up and ready for church the next morning. Mommy bought this little dress for her. It has two yorkie dogs on it. Beau would be so proud!

Even yorkies are on her tights!! She was definitely ready to go.

North Georgia Mountains 10/28/11

2011-10-31T06:15:00.000-07:00

Julia, Mommy and Daddy headed back up to the Lakehouse to meet the crew. We piled in two cars to head to Ellijay, GA-Apple country. We stopped at Hillcrest Orchards. Julia had already been there and done that place. Wanted to visit with friends. For lunch, we stopped at Pooles. It is some good barbeque. They have pigs everywhere. Julia loved this pig to ride. When we left, she wanted to take it home. We made it out of there without it!

We went to this Farm Store called Panarama. Julia was all about the Applesauce bread and Apple Cider slushies.

She was sad that she had to leave.

Onto the orchard across the stree. They had a great back where there was lots of sawdust to play in.

They also had a great big area where Mommy and Julia could play games. Julia was loving it!

We went to a total of three apple orchards. We ended our day hanging out in the lake house eating chili. Another fun day!!! Tomorrow, we will have some down time.

North Georgia Mountains 10/27/11

2011-10-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

Every October a group of Mommy and Daddy's friends go to Pigeon Forge. They rent a cabin and hang out. It is a kid free weekend. This year things ended up being a little different. Since Julia arrived, Mommy and Daddy had not planned on going. Another couple went on a big anniversary weekend. Aunt Neen volunteered her lake house in Cumming for those that were kid free. That way the group could go all throughout the No Georgia mountains without spending big bucks. They invited us to come up for the day with Julia. The plans for Thursday was to go to the North Georgia Corn Maze. Mommy and Daddy decided that they could not go to Cleveland without a visit to Babyland General with Julia.

That's our baby!!!

When she walked in, she really looked. She never had seen babies look quite like this!

Look!! A tea party. Julia must join.

Immediately, she started pouring the tea.

She stirred some sugar in the tea.

She noticed the nurse rocking the baby. She never saw a nurse that looked like that before. She just stared.

When she walked into the main part of Babyland, Julia was overwhelmed by the size. Mommy was too. It was not the same that she remembered. It was a new location.

Julia rolled two kids over to the bus.

Then,. she noticed the baby's head coming out of the ground in cabbages. Cabbages in China represent wealth. You will see some type of cabbage statue sitting on a businessman's desk. Hmmm.

Mommy wanted Julia to want a little "My First CPK doll". No, she fell in love with a Ty Gecko and Monkey that you can hang on your backpack. She carried them everywhere. Only put them down to play with a car and lollipops. Daddy was proud. He said that is one smart girl.

The doctor came out and did a delivery from Mother Earth. It was a girl!

Once Julia watched the delivery, we were all done. Our friends were running a little late. Daddy said "Hey!! Helen is only seven miles." So, we were off!
It was a nice day. Julia enjoyed walking the streets of Helen. Helen, GA is a german town.

Julia rested after visiting the candy shop.

We stayed about two hours. Then, we went to the North Georgia Corn Maze. We met up with everyone there. Of course, it would not be the same if Mommy and Julia did not have their pictures taken as corn!!

While we waited for everyone to show, Julia found a truck for entertainment.

We went on a hayride. Then, we started the maze. Mommy was worried that she would have to carry her the whole way. Boy, was she wrong!! Julia held her own. There she goes. Following the group.

She was having so much fun. She could totally explore the field with corn in it.

There was a game to the maze. You had to hit every stop and get a punch. Once you got all the punches, you could register to win a prize.

Julia stopped on the way to try to eat the corn. No!!! It is not for dinner. We will be eating soon!!

We all went and ate at the local diner. It was a great day!!! Daddy decided that we should come hang out with them again tomorrow. Yipppeeee!!

Our Third Month Home: Church Picnic and Library Adventures

2011-10-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

On a typical Sunday, we get Julia ready. She will sit on her red stool waiting for us to get our stuff together.

Julia was so excited. She was going to her first church picnic. She was so inspired that she was doing the hand motions for deep and wide in front of all the tables. Hi-Ms Faith and Ms Diane!!

Since mommy has been off work, we have been trying to hit every storytime at the Roswell Library. We go pick out books. I found out it ironic that she picked out the book "My Family is Forever" by Nancy Carlson. We have the very same book at home.

Ms Angie leads the storytime. It is called the Walking Oneders. She says let your child explore and don't hold them back. Well, Julia spends the first twenty minutes going to get books and bringing them back to mommy. Back and forth. Back and forth. Then. she passes books out to others.

This week it was a Halloween special. Some kids dressed up. I really am not sure if Julia ever saw anyone dressed up before. She stared at the little boys tail for a long time. She was in deep thought. You could tell that she was quite curious. She finally moved on. We will miss this fun with our friends but it is time for a routine for us. We will still see our friends just not in storytime.

Julia's First Truck and Pumpkin Carving

2011-10-22T17:13:00.001-07:00

Check out my new truck!! It looks just like my Daddy's.

We carved our first pumpkin tonight. Mommy drew the face.

Daddy carved it.

Julia cleaned out the inside of the pumpkin.

She was very excited about her pumpkin.

Julia's first pumpkin.

Happy 2 Month Forever Family Day-Julia!

2011-10-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Julia-
It has been two months since we have been a forever family. We think you are the bravest little girl we know. We are so proud of you. We love your big smiles, giggles, squeals and teasing. We are so blessed to be a forever family.
We love you forever!!!
Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Second Month with Julia: A Few Sweet Moments

2011-10-22T01:01:00.000-07:00

Julia wearing her first jean skirt that Goggy bought her..

I love my Daddy's hat!!

Mommy on her laptop. Julia on hers.

Our Second Month Home with Julia: Fall Family Day

2011-10-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

Daddy said to Mommy today, "Let's have a family day in the North Georgia Mountains." We got ready and loaded up in his truck. We headed towards Burts Pumpkin Farm where pumpkins are bigger than Julia. It was one of the coldest days that we had so far this fall.

Julia decided to sit down in the hay with the scareacrows. Of course, a little help was needed by Daddy.

Then, we headed down the street to Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay. Apple time!!! It was fun!

Petting Zoo time. Julia pretty much only liked the baby chicks. The goats and sheep were nothing compare to those babies in there!

Daddy and Julia in front of the nature walk sign.

Had to post in the moonshine picture.

After our adventures, we went and met a few realtives. We ate veggies and chicken at cracker Barrel. It was a perfect family day. Julia fell asleep on the way home.

Second Month Home with Julia: Party by Daddy's Friends

2011-10-21T22:28:00.000-07:00

What should we do on a Tuesday night? Follow Daddy to visit his friends.

Wow!! IT was a party welcoming her home. These are Daddy's friends that say they are all her grandparents. She LOVED it!! Daddy opened her gifts. Julia would examine them. Love that purse Daddy!!! It has a phone, mirror and keys in it.

Could that be? No!!! A grocery cart. Yeah!! I can shop with it.

Julia wonders what is in this big Elmo bag.

Julia pointing at the camera. Like I said, we are going to have to work on the pointing. Right now, it is a lot of her communication.

How did they know? Julia now has a big stroller to push her babies.

Look at the sweet bunny that Julia got. Julia pushes the stroller everywher.

Julia had a wonderful time with Daddy's friends. She definitely would like to come back to see them sometime.

Our Second Month with Julia: Welcome Home Party

2011-10-21T20:57:00.000-07:00

Julia was so excited that she was going to a party. Then, she realized it was for her. Mommy's work was having a "Welcome Home Julia" party. She had a blast. She ate yummy meatballs and cake. She to to meet all the sweet people mommy talk about when she talks about work.

Julia quickly noticed that she got a refrigerator and stove. She had Miss A open them up for her. She also hugged her Lammy.

Julia helped mommy open her presents. (Of course, only if she was not preoccupied playing with something that she had just got.)

What fun!! Julia loved to play and tease Miss A.

Good bye, new friends!!! Thank you for coming to my party. I love my gifts!! You are all so sweet to me. Can you come visit me sometime?

Ms Cathy fed me cake. A friend for life.

Check this out!! This book talks!! Wow!! I love it!

I got this sweet baby. She is my friend. I can play with her in my new Princess fort.

Wow-I love my monkey. Thanks-Ms V!!!

Julia started cleaning up when her party was over. She has a big cart of generous presents. Thank you everyone at mommy' s work!!! I loved my party!

Our Second Month with Julia: First Visit to Cousins

2011-10-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

Julia got to visit her cousin's house one Sunday night when AWANA was cancelled. She was thrilled. They have a big room that they use just for play. They had all these cool riding toys. Everyone helped her ride them.

Julia went up to her cousin's room. Her big cousin was reading her book.

Then, they wanted to show her their back yard. They said it was big and fun to run around in and play. Julia removed her bow and handed it to mommy. She was ready to do some heavy playing. She got on the John Deer tractor and went all over the yard.

Of course, with a little help from others.

It was an AWESOME day!! Julia slept all the way home.

Our Second Month with Julia: Scottsdale Farms

2011-10-20T21:51:00.000-07:00

Julia, Pappy, Daddy and Mommy went on an outing to Scottsdale Farms. We went on a hayride that was pulled by a tractor. It was lots of fun. Very bumpy!

Julia studied the people and nature around her.

Pappy and Julia enjoyed the hayride.

When we got off the hayride, we went to the Petting Zoo. Julia was not sure about all that. She did pet a baby goat.

Julia was cornered by the little animals.

She had her brush in hand. Ready to go.

Even outside the fence, she wanted to brush the animals.

We walked through the pumpkin patch.

Julia was just taking in all the different types of pumpkins.

She stopped to sit down. Of course, she is pointing to another pumpkin.

Mommy kept trying to take pictures of Julia. She knows the camera now. She can feel it. She will not look at it.

There was a family close to us that had an eight year old girl adopted from China. She was all over the place posing. Mommy told Daddy that she just wanted one good picture of Julia in front of some pumpkins. Meanwhile, Julia took Daddy's cup and started collecting.

Julia collected gumballs, bark and rocks. Oh, she was so excited.

She could not stop. She kept collecting.

As Julia brings Mommy her collection, Daddy says to Mommy-"Honey, you did not get a poser. You got an earth girl."

Julia got to pick out any candycorn pumpkin she wanted. It took her a while. She really thought they were balls. She would try to see if they would bounce.

When we got home, she tried to stick her pumpkin to the refrigerator like a magnet.

She realized it would not work. She sat down with it. Mommy saw the photo op.

What a great day at Scottsdale Farm!! The weather was sunny and the fun was plenty!

Our Second Month with Julia: Friends and Fun

2011-10-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

As soon as we got home, Julia and mommy started going on outings. Julia likes to hang out with her new girlfriends-Emma and Nicole. We will meet at parks, food joints with indoor playgrounds, Libraries for Walking Oneders Storytime with Ms. Angie and the local Kroger for storytime with Grandma Snazzy. It has been lots of fun!!
Julia, Emma and Nicole love Chick Filet and the indoor playground. They even have cheerios in little containers while you wait for your food. Got to love it!

Looks like someone is pointing to something. Emma listens to Julia.

Nicole helps Julia put on her shoes. What a great friend!

Right before Grandma Snazzy starts, Nicole and Julia chill with their fingers in their mouths. Isn't that what good friends do!

Everyone is wanting to ring Grandman Snazzy's bell. Julia rang it once and wanted to do it again.

Here are all our friends dancing. The boy in the green on the left is Emma's older brother, Will. See the guy on the right-that is Doss. Those are two cool boys!

Julia wedges herself between the two kids sitting on the park bench.

Julia--What are you looking at over there? Grandma Snazzy is the other way!!! Can't you see Grandma Snazzy's BIGGEST book ever?

The cool thing about Grandma Snazzy-coloring and stickers. We did a cool art project at the end of her story

We cherish this time with our friends. We know that we will soon be moving on to our own routine. We will not be able to do all the weekday fun. We will see Emma in Sunday School. Nicole lives close to us. We will get to see her too. We are beginning to look forward to meeting our new friends at our Child Care Center.

Red Thread Charities at Hangzhou Orphanage

2011-10-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

We were so blessed to find this group who met Julia in October 2010. Red Thread Charities is a group of physical therapists, nurses and other medical providers from Minnesota who make an annual trip every October to Julia's orphanage. They evaluate the medical needs of the children. They help the orphanage come up with a treatment plans to help them have a better chance in life. They are at Hangzhou orphanage now on their trip.

When we were reviewing Julia's file that was translated from Chinese to English, we kept seeing the words American Red Silk group. We finally figured out what it really meant in English. We googled Red Thread Charities and found this blog. It was amazing to us. I found an email address of Jane, the leader of the group. She immediately emailed me back seven pictures of our sweet girl during her evaluation. She had pictures of our sweet girl before her cleft lip surgery. What a treasure to us. We had not ever seen any pictures of her before. We just had pictures of her after. Jane said that she was a sweet, little adorable girl. We were going to be very blessed. We so agree.

When the Red Thread Charities were at her orphanage, they evaulated her to have her weak legs. They did physical therapy on the ball with her. In the US, we would only do it three times a week. The therapists at her orphanage did it daily.

We are so grateful for Red Thread teaching the orphanage workers these ball exercises. Julia's legs now are so strong that we call them her third and fourth arms. I am not kidding when I say that I could see her doing some serious dancing, yoga, gymnastics or soccer. She is so strong!!!

Thank you Red Thread Charities!

Julia's Gotcha Day Video by Daddy

2011-10-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Spending Time with Julia

2011-10-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, Julia hung out on the porch enjoying the pretty weather. She loves to rock. She was excited because she knew her cousins were coming over in the afternoon.

After school, the cousins appeared. They were excited as ever to play with Julia. Caleb can push Julia all over on her little ladybug.

After some inside fun, they went outside to run. They wanted to make sure that their little cousin knew how to run. Then, they blew bubbles. We all now that Julia LOVES bubbles!!!

Andrew and Julia popped the bubbles Caleb blew. When they left, Julia threw them kisses. She loves seeing her cousins!

After dinner that night, Aunt Neen brought Julia some necklaces(quick release ones for sure) in all different colors. As you know, Julia loves necklaces and bows. Julia was just in awe at all the different colors.

Julia started breaking out in song and dance(to Cedarmont Kids Music). She felt very vogue with all her get up on.

She needed to make a quick call to Aunt Neen to talk to her.

Oh, she was right there the whole time! She just needed some cell phone time. Aunt Neen and Julia watched music videos.

On Wednesday, Daddy worked on crosses for Sunday night service. Julia just was amazed from afar.

Julia played a few tunes before she hit the sack.

Thursday was great!! We went to North Point play area with Gogs. Wow!! Julia loved it!

On Friday, we had Gymboree. Woo Wee!! It was rock and roll music week.

Julia walking the aisles of Party City. She has been walking with her hands on her hips. She imitates everything. All I can, she did not get this from her Mama!

Pappy came over to play that night. Another great day!!

On Saturday, we went to watch cousins soccer games. Julia is very proud of her cousins. Let's just say they made all the goals on their teams. Both teams won!!!!

When we got home, some much needed down time.

Sunday was a great day for Julia. She made it the whole hour without crying for Mama in Sunday School The rest of the day was a chill day.

On Monday, Mama got Julia her own broom and dustpan. Mama thought. Hmmm. She imitates. Could she possibly clean up after self? Let's see if this will work.

Her favorite sitting spot in the kitchen.

On Monday night, it was cold. This was Julia's first experience with footie pjs. She was not sure what she thought. She did not want to stand in them. She finally did.

Look Mama!! I am eating my yogurt with my spoon all alone!!

Forget the spoon!! I want it now!!

Adventures with Julia-Week Three

2011-09-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, got to meet some special people in her life. This is Ms Pattie. Ms Pattie has been praying and praying for Julia for the last five years. She has been a very important person in Mama and BaBa's lives. She encouraged them. She knew that it was going to happen. Ms. Pattie could not wait for her to come home. She has been one of Julia's fans. We just love her.

Ms.Reid is on the right below. Ms. Reid learned more about China adoptions right after we got Julia's referrals. She has followed many family blogs to get their children from China. She has prayed for Julia. She is a very special person in Julia's life. Of course, Goggy is standing next to Ms. Reid. Julia loves her Goggy!!

Julia met her cousin, Andrew, when he got out of preschool. They had so much fun.

Can you tell? That laughter is infectious!!

Mama is hoping that the cars can always stay this size.

Julia and Andrew got on a seesaw.

If cousin can make it up there, Julia can. Everytime she would make progress, she would slide back down because of her pants.

Julia finally made it. YEAH!!

MaMa and BaBa(who is trying to change his name to Daddy) have a little rocker here.

Andrew and Julia are pointing to something. Who knows what? Sometime, we will have to tell her that it is not polite to point. At this point, it is a big form of communication.

At night, look who came to visit-Goggy and Pappy. Kisses galore!!

On Wednesday, we went to the Ped Plastic Surgeon. We still have one other doctor to see. We will dedicate a whole post to what it going on with her cleft palate when we have a full plan. We have been really working to figure out what to do. We are thankful for friends who have been willing to give us their experiences.
On Thursday, it was our one month anniversary of being a family. Julia had portraits done at JC Penneys Portrait studio. She had one done in a chinese dress which is her baby picture and one done as her little self.

Of course, she had to ride the merry go round with Gogs.

On Friday, we went to a Gymboree class. MaMa bought a groupon before leaving for China. We took a music class. It was a blast. After a long nap, Julia was trying to help Daddy with a proposal for work.

Then, she watched some Cedarmont kids Toddler Tunes for Tots. Oh my, she loves them. She loves to play instruments while watching it.

On Saturday, it was a Mama and Julia day. Mama got this onesie about four years ago. How funny? It is so true-"She was worth the wait!!"

Mama had this great idea. At Toys R Us, they are celebrating Geoffrey's birthday. Mama wanted to take Julia.

OK, Julia might not of liked it as much as MaMa thought she would.

It's Sunday. Ready for church!! She picked out her own necklace. She loves them!

On Monday, Julia went to the ENT. She needs some tubes. Consent signed. Will have done with her palate surgery.
Needless to say, it was another great adventure week with Julia in the household!! We love our girl!!!

Second Week at Home

2011-09-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

Mama wanted Julia to try on an outfit that she got for Christmas from Aunt Susan and Uncle Joel a couples years ago. The outfit is a size 6mo-12mo. Julia kept telling us it would not fit since she was 18months. She was very sad when it did. She was not happy. It itched too!! She wanted it off. All Mama wanted was a cute picture.

On Wednesday, we went to the Walking One-ders Storytime with Ms. Angie. Julia loved it. She so enjoyed the other children. She met up with Nicole and Emma. She has been practicing her songs all week. After the story time, we met Goggy at North Point. We were shopping for picture dresses. She went on the Merry Go Round for the first time with her Gogs. She LOVED it!!!

On Thursday, Julia went to her pediatrician. She loves her doctor. She did not love all the vaccinations that she got. We were also given lots of blood work, stool and urine specimens to complete. Mama was not looking forward to that.

On Friday, we just took it easy. Ms. Wink came to visit. Julia ate some chicken noodle soup for lunch that Ms.Pat gave her. She ate it all the way to the last drop.

Julia has these stools around our kitchen. She loves to play games with them. She is doing her"you and me" hand motion with the stools.

Because Julia is exploring more in the kitchen than we were ready for, she helped BaBa place safety latches on more cabinet doors. She loves tools!

On Saturday, she tried to make some phone calls to Goggy, Aunt, Pappy and Grandpa. No one answered. Where are they all on a Saturday?

Julia loves coasters. They are her"no nos". She is holding the coaster waiting to see Mama's reaction. Let's just say that it is exactly what she thought. Hmmm.

Back to the phone, "Mama-A is calling to go to the Sandy Springs festival."

The door bell rings. Look who it is! She brought me a beautiful outfit that says "Little Princess". Ms. Andrea is coming with us too. Yeah!!

We will wait for her. Back to the phone.

How about a little peek a boo with BaBa?

At the festival, we went to a petting zoo.

Julia got a fire hat. She was decked out from head to toe.

When Julia got home, she found a surprise from Ms Sylvia, our neighbor. She absolutely loves balloons. you can tell she was overjoyed.

We had a huge day on Sunday. We went to church. This was our first time.

When we walked into Sunday School, Julia noticed the pigs on the wall. She really liked them. She walked to her classroom and held her arms up to Pappy. She did not cry. She played with her friend Emma. We kind of went around the corner. Still no crying. We took a beeper and went to the church. Once church was over, we went and got her. She had just started whimpering a little. We were so proud of her. She is so brave. We are having to practice this over and over.

Aftter Sunday school, Julia was delighted to see her cousins in the prayer garden.

Wow!!! Julia sure is protected by them. She loves her cousins!!

They stopped for a picture.

The, got up and started walking more.

Caleb knew that she needed help with the stairs.

Julia went home to a fun visit with L and B.
Julia loves Baths!!! Bath toys rock!! Julia poses her elf head.

Julia loves to stack her letters neatly on the side of the tub. That way she can hit them back in.

We knew Julia loved watermelon from her file. She would not eat it for Mama. Mama would cut it up into small pieces for her. Only to find out, Julia loves watermelon only the rind!!

Monday!! Let's just say-LABWORK day!! Nothing to post but there were lots of tears-LOTS of tears. Julia slept for hours upon hours.

Mama and Baba are so proud of Julia. Everytime we look at her-we feel so blessed. Wow!! What a brave girl we have here. She has been through so much in her little life. She still has such a sweet, fun loving personality. That is what gets her through She constantly perseveres. She is constantly teaching us.

Tomorrow, we start our appointments with the Cleft doctor. Please pray for her as we find out what is in store for her next.

Mid Autumn Moon Festival

2011-09-13T04:29:00.000-07:00

This is where Julia plays after breakfast. MaMa cleans. Julia plays fridg phonics. Today is Mid Autumn Moon Festival Day. We have a big day planned.

We met new friends at the park. Julia is not sure what she thinks of a swing.

She wonders what all this stuff is about.

Julia is liking the slide. It might not be all that bad after all.

Sand? Wow!!! Julia loves it!! She will be so excited when she realizes that she has her own turtle sandbox at home.

Julia pours it out and starts over.

Not sure about the red tube. Then, she was really brave and ran across the bridge.

She enjoyed meeting her sweet friend at the park. They shared a snack.

As they shared their snack, they talked about their day.

Then, another sweet friend showed up. "Over here!!! Come snack with us!!"

This sweet friend brought her older brother. Nothing like a morning in the park.

After our big morning, we went to H Mart to get some moon cakes. The Mid Autumn Moon Festival is like a chinese thanksgiving. It is a celebration of bountiful harvest.

Julia shared her moon cakes with Mama, BaBa and Aunt Jeanine.

She totally enjoyed them. They are filled with lotus paste, sweet bean paste, jujube paste or five kernels. A popular Mid Autumn legend is that moon cakes were instrumental in throwing over the Mongol dynasty. Messages were inserted in the cakes to let families know of the rebellion against the mongols. Because of the mooncakes, the people were able to drive the mongols out which led to the founding of the Ming dynasty.

First Week Adventures with Family

2011-09-10T02:57:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day, Unc Robert and Aunt Sherry came to meet Julia. Wow!! They brought suprises.

Julia loves her Unc Robert and Aunt Sherry.

In the afternoon, we went to Goggy and Pappy's for pizza. Julia got to spend more time with her cousins. She was being way goofy on this couch. I do not know how Aunt Susan got this picture. She was headbanging while Caleb and Andrew sat there like perfect angels.

Goggy needs an up and down picture for her frame. So, we had a pic opportunity on the stairs.

MaMa decided some good bonding time might be the Yellow Daisy Festival, only the largest art festival in the southeast, with Aunt Jeanine. She enjoyed it. Check out her legs. I would say she was comfortable, huh("A" as in Julia's language)?

Besides getting some cool things, her favorite thing was the balloon. It was perfect weather.

On Friday, Grandpa Campbell from Orlando came to visit. She was so excited. Look what he brought her. A super, duper large Winnie. She cannot wait to visit his work-Disney World!!

As we were getting her dressed for the day, she noticed her baby in her stroller. She started pushing her baby and could not stop.

She took a few pics with Grandpa Campbell and went out the door with baby.

She is serious about her walking.

She stopped to talk to Grandpa and BaBa about the tires on their cars.

She went back to walking her baby. A few neighbors came by to welcome her home.

She progressed down the driveway to learn the word "STOP".

Left the doll, back to some car discussions with Grandpa.

Julia studied some leaf that she found on the ground. Wanting to talk to cousin Caleb about it.

Julia was ready to get into Grandpa Canpbell's car to go with him.

A thought crossed Julia's head. Tires!! Hmmm. How does the tires on my stroller compare to the ones on the cars?

After everyone napped, Julia needed some loving from Grandap Campbell,

Look who came over to go out to dinner-Uncle Robert and Aunt Sherry. Aunt Sherry and MaMa had Julia pose with the Campbell men. She told us before we started "Now, only a few pics, ok?"

We went to Fudruckers for dinner. She is not a picky eater. She loved it all. She even shared her noodles(which we would call mac and cheese).

After our visiting, we went outside and "played" in the parking lot with her family. Uncle Robert put her on the car. She loved it!

She had to say good bye but knew it was a great day!!!! (Notice: The new word for the day "STOP" is in the background.)

The Long Way Home

2011-09-05T03:48:00.001-07:00

On Friday, we took a shuttle to the Guangzhou train station. It was raining. BaBa had lots of luggage to carry.

When we got on the 12:12p train, it was not real full. It was nice. There was a dinner car. We were able to see more of the land instead of just big cities.

Julia was glad that she could stretch out and enjoy the ride.

She could barely hold her head up for her picture by the train.

We arrived in Hon Kong. We had a taxi cab driver take us to Sky City Marriott. It was about a thirty minute drive. It was really close to the airport. The scenery was out of this world.

Julia pointing for the taxi.

When we arrived, it was a gorgeous hotel. Really swanky. OK, a little too swanky for a new family of three. A cup of milk for Julia-only seven dollars.

We ended up riding a shuttle again to Tung Chung, an outdoor outlet mall. We ate at MickyD's and shopped around. It was enjoyable. We knew we needed to get a good night sleep.

There was a great walk in shower for almost eight. Julia does not do showers. So, we just put her in the sink. Talk about a good time. We all laughed.

The anticipation of being at the shuttle bus at 7am resulted in little sleep that night. When we got down to the shuttle, we met our sweet friend-Joshua. We knew Joshua, mom and dad were going to be on our plane. Joshua lived in the same orphanage as Julia. Small world, huh? You can see his venture here.

We boarded the plane for a long fifiteen hours. We all did good. Somehow, we ended up with economy comfort for all our flights. Yeah for that!! Ate all meals for a day on the plane. We were so ready to get off. When we landed, we went through immigration.

The cool thing is that Joshua and Julia became US citizens together in Detroit. Though, Julia slept through it.

After going through customs and immigration, we went and cleaned up Julia. We still had another flight to go. We ate lunch at a mexican joint. Then, went to wait for our plane.

Julia entertained the other people waiting with her squeaky shoes. I guess they don't have them much in Detroit. She would walk and cackle. This one sweet man told us that her laugh was just contagious. We could see him over there laughing everytime she would.

Julia was not thrilled to change on the plane before we went to meet our family and friends. She did it. She practiced waving her flag all the way to baggage claim.

When we got off of the escalator, I saw all the Welcome home signs. I just cried. I was so tired and relieved to be home. I was so happy.

She was greeted by Goggy, Pappy, Aunt, Unc, nephs, Minors, Callans, Mary and Susan. We were thrilled to see them all.

On Saturday night, Googy and Pappy took us home. It was nice.

The next day the Aunt, Unc and cousins came over. She loved that!!

Caleb pushed her around on her ladybug.

Aunt swung her around. She loved sitting on Unc's lap and watch baseball. Andrew showed her how to put blocks in a puzzle.

Once they left, she had to look and play with all her toys in the living room. She really mastered her little popper.

The doorbell rang-it was Mr Chris and Mr Allan. They welcomed her to the neighborhood with a stuffed monkey dressed as a ladybug, absolutely wonderful chocolate brownie pops and a perfect card that described our journey perfectly.

What a perfect ending to being at home.

Thurs/Fri-Packing/Relaxing/Goodbye Guangzhou

2011-09-01T15:49:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, we all just rested up. MaMa started feeling better. She started her antibiotic. BaBa is beginning to also feel better.

It was a rainy day. It was just what we needed. We finished up our shopping with some sweet people.

Then, we played in the room. We got our packing organized. Met with our guide for the last time. We got Julia's visa. When we enter into Detroit, she will become a US citizen. WooHoo!!!

As a family, we went and ate inside at Lucy's. It was kind of funny. Mama had Tom Yom soup and a braised duck appetizer while Julia ate an all american burger, broccoli with a mini shake. (I would call it more milk like.) BaBa ate some meat sampler plate.

It is now Friday morning. Julia is finishing up sleeping her last night in China. It is kind of sentimental to me. She is about to go through another big change. Even packing the room, was hard for her. She knew something was about to change again.

Last night, I wrote Julia a letter from the White Swan hotel. I am mailing it this morning. I reflected on this time with her. Hopefully, the letter will be helpful in the future when she having a hard time. We love this little girl so much. We feel that she was so worth the wait. God is so good and faithful!!!!

Goodbye-Guangzhou!! One step closer to home-the train to Hong Kong.

Tues/Wed Highlights

2011-08-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

We started Tuesday with a walk around the squares on the island. Here is a great billboard of Guangzhou.

Kelly took us to Qing Ping Herbal Market. It is a wholesale place. Very interesting.

Sea horses anyone?

How about some scorpions?

Then, we walked through old Guangzhou. Very happening place.
I'd say Julia is pretty tired.

Turtles are so cute. They were buying them as pets.
This was at that the mall. Beatles on a stick. Kelly told us the Amazing Race stopped here.
Their dare was to eat the scorpion.

Chicken feet? Still can't even think about it,
At the Pearl Market, BaBa bought Julia her wedding pearls and earrings. We also got her a sixteen year old pearl bracelet.

This was the nice lady who put them together. Her pearls are also from her home province.
Back to the mall.We stopped for some italian gelato. I had to try stinky fruit-Durian gelato. My friend Van will be so proud.
As we walked back to the White Swan, we had to walk with all these bikers. The smog was bad. If I lived here, I would be someone wearing a surgical mask. I am dying. I feel better. Then, go out. Feel so bad again. This is the hottest August they have ever had here.
Back at the hotel, we found our group hanging out on the 15th floor. Look who has all the energy.

Back to the room for pizza. MaMa is going to sleep.

We had to be on a van this morning, Wednesday, at 710am to go to the Consulate. Julia was still asleep. Really not into this right now.

In front of the US Consulate, a sweet family took our picture. Cameras were not allowed inside.

After we got back, we ate a quick breakfast, hit the red couch for the most popular adoption photos.

Julia, Kate and Kara sitting on the red couch. I love how Kate's hand is on Julia's dress and Julia's hand is on Kate's shoulder. What a sweet bunch of girls.

We took tons of pictures. None came back perfect. Julia was over it.

Then, it was her individual turn. She was all about that.
Good Bye!!
Back in the room. It is 1pm. MaMa is staying in the room the rest of the day to try to feel better. We ate Lucys in the room again. All, is well.
We are not sure how great our blogging will be here from here on out. We hang out and pack in the room tomorrow. Take a train to Hong Kong on Friday. Catch our plane on Saturday.
We catch the 186 Delta from Hong Kong to Detroit.
Then, we catch the 807 Delta from Detroit to Atlanta. It leaves at 3:53pm. Landing at 6pm on Saturday. Good thing is we will come right off to baggage claim because we will clear customs in Detroit.
Please pray that this journey is smooth. Please pray that Mama and Baba feels betters. Please pray for Julia's ears during the plane ride. We will be in the air for seventeen hours.

One Week-Forever Family

2011-08-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

Julia woke up this morning playing with the flashlight. Sounds like she will have lots in common with someone we know. :)
We went and ate an EARLY breakfast. That way there were not so many people there. We decided to walk around outside and find the people who do Tai Chi in the square. We watched for a while.

Then, headed over to Starbucks for a Green Tea Frap. It is way to hot here for coffee. Julia totally enjoyed it. She is a Mama's girl when it comes to that.
Walked back to the Swan Hotel to get ready to go to the zoo.
Julia's ready and raring to go.
Wow!! We got there. It was awesome.
Julia and Kate in front of the giraffes.

Julia had some special BaBa and me time.

MaMa had a little break.

The anticipation of seeing a Panda almost made her giddy. When we think back in this one week, the firsts she has experienced are many. She is really doing good. Every day there is new stuff that she has not been through.

Julia got a little tired and decided to pop a squat right in the middle of the Zoo.

The three Chinese sisters posed for a picture. Kate is in the back. Kara is to the left. Julia is on the right. Kate and Kara was in the same orphanage. Though, we are all considered chinese sisters because we are all in the same travel group. All of our lives were changed on the same date.

Kara and Julia try to encourage Kate.

BaBa and Julia at the Panda statues.

Hey!! Look what I got-a cool pink pinwheel!!

The three HOT Mamas. China is hotter that an oven in August. You feel like you are in a sauna when you walk outside.
Back to our favorite dinner place.
Finished our night off with buying Julia her wedding box. She picked out herself. We gave her two choices and she pointed to the one she liked.
Julia and Mama went back to the room. BaBa went to have a 70 minute foot massage for 68 yaun, which is about 10 bucks. He thinks Mama needs to have one. He sure is snoozing. Since he has not felt good, it is all good. All the cold front, we are beginning to feel some better. We want to be 100% when we travel on Friday and Saturday. We have 17 hours on a plane between two flights. We are loving China but it will be good to be on the other side of that flight.

Tomorrow-Free morning with a visit to two interesting places in the afternoon.

After the Sunday Nap

2011-08-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

Julia woke up refreshed. We got ready and headed straight to the 7-11 to pick up our cold drinks for dinner.
We went out to eat with our travel group tonight. We ate on the 5th floor above Jordans. It was chinese food to die for. Our guide took us there. Let's me put it this way-we are all going back tomorrow at 5pm. It only cost us eight dollars per adult and we had tons of good food. Mama liked the peppers because it helped open her sinuses.
On the way to eat, this was everywhere. Tons of guys with cameras taking pictures of one girl. I would have bet my life it was a conference. Our guide said no. That was normal for here.
We stopped for a picture in the park. This place really is like Savannah in China. It is a bunch of streets, gardens, parks and shops.

After making it up the five floors, this is what we saw. They gave us on our own private room.

Everyone enjoyed the food and fun.

When it was over, Julia realized that she was sitting in the princess chair, she had to have a picture. After all, it is her eighteen month birthday today.

A squattie potty for your viewing pleasure.

We then visited Jenny's place. Mama and Baba stocked me up on some shoes.

Back in the room, Julia admired all the shoes she got. Mama wondered if Julia had more shoes than Mary and Susan had purses that one year in New York.
Look, we also got the Coming Home Barbie in our room tonight. You only get this if you stay in the White Swan hotel. Guess what? We are the last Great Wall family staying there before it closes for renovation.

Tomorrow-the ZOO!!!!!

Welcome to Guangzhou

2011-08-27T23:16:00.000-07:00

We are here at the White Swan Hotel. It is very nice. We need this as we recover from our colds. MaMa and BaBa have really not felt good. As well, as Julia. We have kept up with our group but sneaking sleep when we can. I think MaMa is feeling the best now. The cold has moved down. We are trying to get into a routine around here. We have been going through lots of changes really fast. On Saturday, Julia had her medical exam. She just got ready and was heading for the door.
When she realized what the medical exam was, she was not happy.
Nothing that two lions-could not soothe.

Our guide walked us around the island. We got her picture taken for her visa. Then, onto the medical exam place. It was busy for a Saturday. It reminded me of a day after a holiday in the ER!!

We would like to say that she was totally cooperative but NOT!!! She has a strong will and can fight against even three nurses who want her height and weight. She weighed in at 20pounds and height is 31.5 inches. The ENT did not have to do much to look in her mouth since it was WIDE open.

Cleared all that. No shots needed. She is under 2. On the way to meet up with our other two GREAT WALL families, we are going on a tour. We went to Liwah museum. The picture below is what a bride and groom would get in when they would get married.

This is a traditional marriage ceremony.

We hit a park for some game like hackey sack. It was serious business. There were teams in uniforms competing.

When we left the park, we went over this bridge. We ran into these two women who were overtaken with love for Julia. They asked many questions. One woman told us that the woman below in the picture is 84 years old. We asked her if we could take a picture. She asked our guide if we could mail it to her. The guide got her info and we told her we would. She was so happy that she had a home in America.Julia was very calm as we left this area of town to head to the Tea market.
I bet this lady's baskets would carry more than our backpacks. She acted like it was nothing as she walked down the road.

This nice lady presented us with a wonderful tea tasting. BaBa bought the black tea.

We sat on these stumps around the tea table. We watched her make several different kinds of teas. They steep the tea for short periods. It does not taste strong. We were told Americans like Jasmine because of how strong it is.Julia could not decide which tea she like the most.
When we got back, we were tired and hungry. We went to the Cow and Bridge for lunch. Mama could not taste anything. She wanted spicy. Cow and Bridge is thai food. How could Mama not get spicy there? Good thing there were only three other families were there-Julia had a melt down. She played drums with chopsticks. We took them away from her and watch out. It was not pretty. We were all just tired.
As we walked back, we saw couples get their wedding pictures taken. They take the pictures before the wedding.

High fashion photographers here. Check out the blue gown.
When we got back to the room, Mama slept. Julia and BaBa went for a walk. When they got back, BaBa played stacking cups with her. She has aced them. She puts them together and claps for herself.

We all just wanted to stay in tonight. BaBa got take out from Lucys. We just ate in our room and chilled. Went to bed early.
Today is August 28th. Julia is 18 months old today. We went on a temple tour. Kara, her new friend, is in the stroller in front of her. Julia is drinking out of BaBa's water bottle.

After the temple tour, we went to a government store to shop. We all love to do that. Julia came back to the room. She wanted to share a rice cracker with me.

Now, we are all resting. We have dinner with our guide and other families in two hours. BaBa still feels bad. Hoping the nap will get him over the hump.

Good Bye- Hangzhou!!!

2011-08-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

This is how our travel day started out. We got up and ate breakfast. Julia was not feeling good. Our sweet girl is teething. Mama and Baba have terrible colds. They got worse as the day went on. Our guide said that she was coming over to help us with our medical paperwork before she picked up Julia's passport from the orphanage. We asked her if she could come later instead. We all fell back asleep until 1:30pm.
Feeling under the weather. We knew we had Julia's first flight today. We just went with how she felt. When our guide came to see us, she insisted that she get us some chinese tea that will help our colds. We totally were for that. So, I am sipping on it now. She said it was bad. I can't even taste it. So, I have no problem with it. We just hung out, slept and packed.
Once everyone was ready, I took Julia for a walk. There is a glass elevator at our hotel. The two of us rode it up and down.

I took some pictures of her looking over her hometown as she says good bye.

After the good bye, we went back to our room to finish up packing.
While waiting on the plane, our plan was for her to eat Gerbers puffs to help with her ears. She cannot suck a straw very well. Jeff had mixed Cheerios in with her puffs. because we were running low. Earlier, we thought these puffs had some sort of drug in them. She begged for them. Now, forget the puffs. She hand picked out every Cheerio to eat and handed us the puffs.

After a LONG flight, we are in Guangzhou. The flight was only two hours but for an almost 18 month old who never experienced ear pressure-it felt long.

The picture below is how she looked when we entered the White Swan. We are now all three in our king size bed. Hoping this tea works. We have her medical exam and a tea market excursion tomorrow. More about the White Swan tomorrow.