Grateful

Today I am grateful for:

-My wonderful husband, loving family, supportive friends, and my son.

-Good health.

-A roof over my head. A meal each day.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. Continued blessings to you all.

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy;

they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.

-Marcel Proust

Car Seats and Strollers and High Chairs!

Overwhelmed. That's the feeling I had when Rick and I set out to work on Brandon's baby registry. Since I knew the car seat was one of the most important items to have, we started with that. Man, oh man.....who knew we'd have all those choices? Safety is most important, but what about comfort? What about the reclining mechanism? And the weight restrictions? Sigh. I realized that once we got through the car seat aisle in the store, we were in for more fun with strollers....Well, two hours later and with just a few items selected, we went home.

Rick agreed that this would call for the assistance of an experienced mom. So, a few days later, I took a trip to Southern California. I was there to visit my nephews, Lucas (5), Boomer (3), and new neice, L.J. (2 months old). What cuties! Anyway, while my brother played with the kids, my sis-in-law and I were able to sneak away to finish the registry. She pointed out useful and practical tips that worked for her, which was stuff I never would have thought about. So, by the time we left the store, not only was our registry complete, I felt confident in my choices. We picked the car seat (it has a multi-reclining option), an everyday stroller with tray for Brandon (so he can be within reach of his snacks!), a jogging stroller with a "swivelling" front wheel (necessary for maueuvering on slightly rough and winding terrain), and high chair that will "grow" with Brandon as he gets older.

Ahhhh, success! Now, it's time to start on that packing list....Suggestions?

What a Weekend!

The phone was ringing off the hook with family and friends getting wind of the news. We're so grateful for the support everyone has shown us. Just know that for those of you who promised babysitting on our occasional "date night" -- we WILL take you up on the offer! Heh. In return, as promised, is a picture of BRANDON, the newest member of our family.

We received more details about him yesterday:

- He is 16 months old and is currently at the Beijing Children's Welfare Institute

- He is outgoing, active, smiles alot, doesn't mind sharing toys (whew!) and loves listening to music

- He can pull himself up onto the railing of his crib, and can walk into every room pushing the walker

- He loves to eat (yessss!!!!!), especially noodles, veggies, rice, and sweets.

The coordinator from our Agency informed us that we may be traveling with a group of 5 or 6 families. We don't know when that will be quite yet, but I'm hoping that we'll be back from China before the end of the year. I guess we'll just have to hope for a speedy Travel Authorization so we can book those plane tickets!

Oh My Gosh, We got THE CALL"

I'm at a loss for words. Our agency called about an hour ago...WE HAVE A SON!

His name is Chang Lie Wen, is 16 months old, and is currently in Beijing.

Can't get to our agency today to pick up the referral packet, so they're sending it overnight. We'll see our baby's face tomorrow!!!!!

I'm shaking with disbelief and excitement right now. Didn't think we'd hear anything until Monday at the earliest.

Will post pictures and more details as soon as I can!!!!!!!!!!!!