Home with "Little Rose" and "Baby Ben"!

Update on Ben!!

2012-01-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

Well- I realized that I had not blogged since August and felt like I needed to update the pictures at least. Things are going very well. Ben has adjusted well to being a Brown. He loves his family and his home. He has started walking and is caught up on almost all of his developmental skills. His speech is still delayed but he is saying Momma, DADA, Emma, Baa (bottle), and a few other words. He is doiing fine with the babysitter as well. We are so happy we made it through the tough times this summer. He is a joy most of the time. He is still stubborn, and spoiled, and cries a lot.... but we have accepted it as part of the Ben personality. Due to facebook- I tend to neglect the blog these days. Sorry to anyone watching. 2 kids have really rocked my world. I barely have the time to do anything. ...

Emma is 5

2012-01-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Birthday Girl!!

Diaper Change

2012-01-22T19:11:00.001-08:00

Emma tackled the dreaded diaper change. It was fun for all!!

Christmas Holiday

2012-01-22T19:09:00.001-08:00

Walking- finally!

2012-01-22T19:07:00.001-08:00

Halloween picts.....

2012-01-22T19:01:00.001-08:00

WE had a great Halloween. Emma wanted to be a Scary Bat.... Ben- well he went as Frankie!

A Big Month

2011-08-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

The month of August has been full of growth for our Benjamin. He has improved in so many areas including development and attachment. He is almost walking now- and is feeding himself when he wants to. He loves his Mommy- and is obsessed with his sister. I took the month of August off of school to stay home with him and work on his skills. It has paid off. My husband is staying home with him during the month of September. We have been visiting the babysitter and Nannie's house a lot in order to get him adjusted to the new places he will be staying. Ben just does not handle change very well. He still has moments of unexplained crying and the bad days are not gone- but he is sure showing us his personality these days. He is a stubborn little boy- who will not give control over easily. But he can be so sweet- and lovable. We have signed up with First Steps so that they can help us- help him- to catch up on his skills. We had formal pictures taken of Ben and ER and all I can say is WOW!

Update on Ben!!

2011-07-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

So we have been home almost 7 weeks now. Benjamin is getting better and better every day. He is not crying as much as is simply more at ease now. I will say that I think he "LIKES" all of us. I know it will be awhile before he loves any of us. It shows in the small things he does like slipping me a smile when I did nothing to earn it. Or crawling into my lap and cooing loudly all on his own. It is wonderful. But he still is hesitant about getting too intimate with me. Rocking him is way too personal for him. He will not let me get that close- just long enough to get his bottle and then down he goes. I so want to snuggle with him in the bed- but nope- that is not happening now. He will roll quickly away and avoid my touch. But we are progressing that is for sure. We visited the Nashville Zoo and have been back to the Pool a few times. But we are still keeping him close to home. I am taking a leave from school to prepare him for a babysitter. That is not something I am looking forward too. I so want to stay at home with him but we just cannot swing it. Ugh. Emma is warming up to him and is very protective of her little brother. Ben LOVES Emma and wishes she would notice him more. Life is good at the moment. Thanks for checking in with us!

Home 1 month

2011-07-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

Things are finally starting to feel normal around here. Finally. Man- June was a LONG month. Benjamin is doing much much better. He has accepted me and I think is starting to like our family. He is smiling a lot now and is visibly more relaxed. He still has his moments- big huge horrible moments- but they are becoming few and far between as time goes by. We still have a lot of mountains to climb but things are so much better than in the beginning. He now wants me to hold him all of the time. I repeat- all of the time. Gets very tiring on this 41 year old woman. ER is very needy as well. She has been a trooper though. Ben has cried a lot and still cries a lot. It really grates on my nerves and I understand him. She doesn't understand and has had to really think about things. Whew. We have not really gone anywhere big. Just to the pool, and to church, and our big outing-- Dinosaur World!! Ha. Ben seems to like to go places and does well when out. I am still adjusting to 2 kiddos and the work that goes with them. Ugh. But compared to a month ago--- we are doing great!!!!

Happy Birthday Ben!

2011-06-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is our baby Ben's first birthday. Almost exactly 1 year ago we sent our application in to our adoption agency informing them of our decision to add another child to our family. Our Ben was born at that same time. Due to his adjustment problems we are keeping things normal and will party later on in the summer. Don't worry Ben- there will be many many more birthdays to spend with us! He is slowly adjusting and showing us more and more of who he really is. Every day gets a little better than the last. But until I can grab him at will and kiss him all over his sweet little face- I will not rest. That day will come I know- just be patient. Everyone tells me this and I know it is true. But it is very hard. Extremely hard. He is starting to let me into his world a little at a time. I sometimes push too hard and he pushes back. But today has been a really good day. What a cutie pie.

Slowly adjusting.

2011-06-11T20:36:00.001-07:00

Things have been slowly getting better around here. Benjamin has gone from hating me to thinking I'm OK if Dad is not around. He loves his Daddy!! His sleep patterns are still way off and we are up most of the night. We are trying to figure that out too. Today I took Ben for a walk outside- and he cried and cried of course- but in the end calmed down and let me swing him to sleep in the swing. (progress I say!!!) We are seeing more and more of his personality every day. Whew. This is hard.

We are home!!

2011-06-09T20:52:00.000-07:00

Well, thank the Lord we made it home in one piece and slightly sane. There is just nothing one can do to make that 14 hour plane ride enjoyable. I have never been in first class so maybe there is a secret. Ben did great on the plane. Slept a lot. He decided quickly that Vanous was his favorite. He tolerated Vanous holding him as long as he was in the carrier facing out. On the plane he let us lay him in the Bassinet the plane provided for some time as well. So that was all good. But he did not like me at all. He would cry if I touched him. Refused to take a bottle from me even if positioned away from me. Wail if I picked him up. So poor Daddy had to be the babysitter ALL THE WAY HOME. ER was a trooper. She did much better than us all. We were greeted at the airport by friends and family. And thanks to my Mom had supper on the table for us and a refrigerator full of groceries. I was exhausted- physically and emotionally. I have read numerous blogs and books about this kind of trauma but to see it in person was truly heartbreakiing. And to be refused by him just about killed me. We were up all night with him on our first night home as well just to add to the exhaustion. He is raging as he grieves the loss of his world. (raging is scary) Thank goodness, my Mom and Sister came to take care of ER and the house while we rested best we could and let me try to get him to trust me. He is doing better. He let me carry him around in the carrier today for about 3 hours. He is tolerating my touch and will let me play with him somewhat. But Daddy is still the one. We have not taken many pictures so I'll have to post again with them later. He is adorable. Hoping to sleep a little tonight.

Jennifer

Gotcha Day

2011-06-07T05:05:00.000-07:00

It has been a very long day. Poor Ben. He is totally upset. He has cried nonstop since the handover. He will not let us hold him. Just cries. Heartbreaking wails. Looks around the room for something familiar and then cries harder. Poor baby. We have done all we can to try to get him calm but I think he just needs to grieve. He finally cried himself to sleep. So sad. I may cry myself to sleep as well. ER has been a trooper. She has been absolutely no trouble on this trip and took the day in stride. We are trying to pack now since our bus leaves in the morning at 7:15. Pray for the people sitting next to us on the plane. Ugh. No pictures this time. Trust me- you really did not want to see the ones we took.

On a happier note- during the 30 minutes or less that he was calm- he gave us a couple of the most beautiful smiles that would melt your heart. We are really hoping to see more of those tomorrow. REALLY HOPING!

Bye

More Shopping!

2011-06-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

Monday- Well, today was a holiday in Korea. Therefore, the places we planned on going to were closed for the day. (It is kind of like our Memorial Day). So we chose to go back to Insadong. I really liked it there anyways. We had a guy on the street paint us a fan. (gorgeous).. Made our way through the CROWDS!! (Understatement.) And just wore ourselves completely out. We made a few more purchases- and came back to the hotel for ER to nap. (us too). And then went back out for Pizza.

Tomorrow is a big day. At 11:00 am here- 9 pm Monday night for you all- we will be taking custody of Benjamin. For us it is all very exciting but for him it is going to be very traumatic. He has been under the care of the Foster Mother for 9 months. She is his caretaker/ nannie/ mother. He is going to be so scared and upset. Please pray that we will do the right things to make his transition as easy as possible. And remember ER in your prayers too. She is processing all of this faster than I ever dreamed. Already the questions are coming about her own adoption story and how this one compares. I have a feeling tomorrow is going to be a hard day on her as well.

Next Post--- our first pictures as a family of 4!!!!!!

Sunday

2011-06-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

Lazy Sunday for us. We laid around the hotel room until after 10 am. (Emma's favorite part of the trip is the hotel room). Then we decided to take a stroll up and down the streets near the hotel. We have about had our fill of taxi's. We found another mall and lots of shops. Once again- very expensive stuff. In fact, we found a Chanel store and a Tiffany's. Way out of our league. But we DID find something great. It was a Playplace for kids full of Teddy bears. You paid for 2 hours of playtime. Yes- expensive to us but worth it to ER for being such a great girl this trip. So off she went to play and play and play. She tried very hard to make new friends but the language barrier makes it difficult. But it was great to see her surrounded by other kids, tons of kids, that looked like her. We hoped she felt like she belonged and was not the "different" one as she is most of the time everywhere we go. Van and I had coffee as she played. ($4 for a cup BTW)..... and we had a waffle for dessert today- waffles are the new thing here in Korea apparently. They cover them in ice cream and whipped cream. Very very good. ER is napping now and we may venture out again tonight.

Our trip to Insadong

2011-06-04T04:55:00.000-07:00

Now today was much more successful than yesterday. Insadong was the kind of place we were looking for. Lots of small shops with more traditional types of things. But we ran into a small- no a big problem. Everything is VERY expensive. Maybe we were spoiled by our trip to China where we bought tons of small trinkets and nice presents for ER and family-- or maybe we are just really cheap people- but either way we were shocked. We quickly had to rethink our plan. With ER- we bought her 18 gifts- one for each adoption day until she turns 18. We planned on doing the same for Benjamin but we may have to rethink. We did buy everything I planned on buying today. We got him a new Hanbok (traditional Korean outfit) and of course ER got one too, a Stamp (his Korean name is carved into the bottom of a stone), Artwork/ scrolls, Traditional Calligraphy brushes with the ink powder and pan, metal Chopsticks, a Korean King and Queen figurines, and more. Whew. And none of the above came cheap. We tried to "bargain" with them like we did in China- but it did not work. Ugh. Insadong was great. There were traditional Korean music groups performing so we stopped and rested and enjoyed the shows. We found a Mcdonalds so ER ate a Happy Meal again. WE walked up most every street and alley. We ended up in a bookstore below the city where I tried to find a English/Korean book. By this time we were sooo tired and just had to leave. It has been a great but tiring day. ER is very tired of shopping. Tomorrow we may find her something fun to do.

The Fancy Toilet

2011-06-03T04:31:00.000-07:00

We are both amazed at the fancy commode we now have. It is called a Bidet (sp.?).... Hmmmmm. How to describe?

Well, Koreans believe that cleanliness is VERY important and find the use of toilet paper nasty. Thankfully they do provide a minimal amount of TP here at the hotel. I better not go into detail, but it has provided us all with a lot of interesting conversation. Hehehe. Look it up.

Our Fledgling Flight

2011-06-03T02:51:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of our Korea trip-

Today we decided to venture out into the city. Now remember we have no guide, no case worker, no one to help us navigate. So we were on our own! We decided to go see one of the 5 palaces here in Seoul.. Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was the largest of the 5 palaces and seemed to be an obvious choice. So off we went.

We found the hotel manager and showed him a map of where we wanted to go. He wrote it down on a card for us to show the taxi driver. The bellman got us a taxi and we took off. We got there safe and sound. The palace was gorgeous and grand. The pictures do not do it justice at all. We toured the King's residence, the Queen's residence, the Concubine rooms, and more. I loved it. ER was not so impressed. Attached to it was a Children's museum that ER thought was much more entertaining. Therefore, we spent another hour there. While watching ER play- we realized it was only 2:00 so we were not ready to go home. Using our map- we figured out that the Dongdaemun Market was close to our location. (This was one of the suggested places we visit for shopping). We found a nice Korean girl who spoke a little English and had her write down where we wanted to go. But we had LOTS of trouble finding a taxi. You know Scottsville folk really just don't use taxi's very much. We walked a long ways through the downtown streets of Seoul trying to find one. We admitted later that we both got pretty nervous at this point. ER was whining that her legs were tired and she was thirsty. (I felt the same). Finally we hailed one down- and off we went. The Market was not what we expected. It was very much like an upscale system of malls. Very trendy and very young. Pretty things but pretty expensive as well. Similar things to what our malls would have just lots more shops. We did find a few things to buy but nothing big. We enjoyed walking the streets and managed to have our picture taken more than once by curious Koreans. Many tried out their broken English on us by saying "hello, how are you today?" We of course were very polite. After a couple of hours of more walking we all 3 were done for the day. WE caught another taxi back to our hotel and now are in for the night. ER is at her limit and is ready to crash now. I may not be far behind. Tomorrow- we plan on shopping at a more traditional place and hopefully find Benjamin some nice Korean gifts.

More Pictures

2011-06-02T00:55:00.000-07:00

Meeting Benjamin Daniel!!!

2011-06-02T00:34:00.000-07:00

Today- Thursday June 2nd

We woke up at about 7 am here after a much needed rest. Snacked for breakfast in the room. Showered and dressed. Then caught a taxi to the SWS building. We found where we were to meet our case worker and then asked for directions to any eating places. They directed us to the basement of a large building and - there it was- Mcdonalds. We all 3 ate well.!!! Then we found a Starbucks on the walk back. Heaven for me!!!! Now- we were ready........................

We took about an hour van ride out of the city to a rural part of Seoul. We walked up an alley and up some steep steps and was met by the Foster Mother. She hugged us and invited us into her home. It was small but well kept. A picture of the Lord's supper hung above the couch. And there- on the floor was Benjamin. ER went straight to him and he immediately started reaching for her. She got a little shy but handled it all well. I tried to talk and play with him but he cried when I got too close. He couldn't quit staring at "the giant"/ Vanous. The foster mother served us OJ and snacks. I recognized watermelon. We tried other things but have no idea what they were. I was not hungry at all but we did not want to be rude. All we could do was look at Benjamin. He is obviously VERY attached to both FM and Foster Father. They are both very loving people and the house was full of happiness. You can tell they were not rich and probably struggle for money but were sooooo nice to us. We stayed for about an hour. Our case worker asked FM several questions for us about his schedule/ comfort items/ etc.

We are scheduled to "get him" next Tuesday at 11:00 am.

We are both very overwhelmed right now and I struggle to find the words to describe the experience. Maybe later. What a day.

Jennifer and Vanous and ER

We are here!

2011-06-01T15:36:00.001-07:00

Whew! What a long plane ride. Korean Air was wonderful and made us as comfortable as possible. But there is just no way to make 14 hours on a plane enjoyable. (This picture was made when we just got on the plane.) I did not allow any pictures of me afterwards! None of us slept much at all. Emma did great. Did not whine or cry even though she was exhausted. She is such a little trooper. Me on the other hand- did whine and cry. Ugh. We made it to the airport, found our luggage, and caught a bus to our hotel. (the Seoul Palace) It is very very very nice but really not family friendly. Lots of businessmen here dressed perfectly. My cargo pants, T-shirt, and crocs stuck out like a sore thumb. Or maybe we stood out because we are the ONLY Americans in sight. Who know? At that moment I could have cared less. Just want a bed- NOW. Our room is small but incredibly elegant. They brought a crib which ER has now claimed as her own personal space. We all slept from 730 pm to 700 am. Now I am in search of coffee. We brought instant but there is no microwave or means of hot water. UGH. I am fixing to get really ILL!!!! UGH!!

Today is very important. At about 1:30 pm we meet our case worker to go meet Benjamin. Am nervous but so ready. We are now trying to figure out what to do for breakfast. ER is playing and watching her DVD player eating Cheerios. Things are as great as they can be right now- except for the COFFEE!

Jennifer

On our way!!

2011-05-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

After leaving the house at 3 am this morning- we drove to Nashville and caught a 6 am flight to Chicago. We are now waiting in the international terminal- looking out the window at a Huge Blue Plane- Korean Air. Once we board, we will be flying straight to Korea. Only about 13-14 hours in the air- with a squirming sleepy 4 year old. Sounds fun huh? We are all still excited and ready to fly. I have to admit- my no sleep night last night is starting to catch up with me. Next post will be from our hotel room in South Korea. Wish us luck. :)

Jenn and Van and ER!

WE are Packed!!

2011-05-30T20:25:00.000-07:00

Plane flight out at 6:20 am. We are ready! Let the trip begin!!!!

Travel Plans!

2011-05-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!! After almost 5 months of waiting- we can finally travel to get our Benjamin. We are leaving on Tuesday morning. Whew. Lots to do. We will be blogging the entire time so check back often.

I'm coming Baby! Just wait a little longer!!

2011-05-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Come on people. I am so tired of waiting... This cutie needs his Mommy.

And his name is...........

2011-04-24T20:20:00.000-07:00

Benjamin Daniel Brown

Now hurry up with that Travel call please!!!! UGH!!!

OK Folks- It is almost travel time!!

2011-04-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

We got our I 600 in the mail last week. This week it is on to the National Visa Center where we hope for a quick log in and log out. Then my paperwork should be all sent to Korea where they are currently making Joonho ready for travel. It looks like we are still about 2-4 weeks away from traveling now. Hopefully, it will be soon!!!! Stay tuned. We will blog the whole time we are in Korea. Would love your comments too! We printed out all of the comments for Emma Rose to have in her scrapbook and we want to do the same for our new boy!

The Stork came and he was carrying a BLUE blanket.

2011-01-22T06:43:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned. Pictures to follow. He is 7 months old in Foster care.

We are in LOVE. ER is not. .......

New FAll Pictures!

2010-11-26T20:33:00.001-08:00

More ER Picts

2010-10-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

1. New adopted kitten named Phineas.

2. Started back to school.

3. Went to a Cool Show!!!

4. Nannie made her a new outfit!

Here we go again!

2010-10-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

Guess what! We are adopting again! This time we have applied to South Korea for a child- either gender. Our paperwork is being sent this week. Yea! According to AIAA, the wait for a referral is holding at about 6 months with travel in about 3-4 months later. Just thought I would share! ER is so excited. Stay tuned.

What have we been doing?

2010-06-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

What have we been up to since April? LOTS. Just have not posted anything. Sorry. School is out for the summer now and we are having lots of fun. ER has been helping my wash the dishes, playing mommy, attending Bible School, and helping my with my flowers. We go to the pool lots and see Nannie about every day. Luv summertime.

More Easter Fun!

2010-04-05T07:34:00.001-07:00

Easter Day 2010

2010-04-05T07:32:00.001-07:00

Snow Days fun

2010-02-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

We actually got some snow this year and we did not want to waste a single minute. We sledded, built a snowman, and had a snowball fight. What fun we had.

Christmas Morning

2009-12-27T20:16:00.001-08:00

ER woke up in a bad mood. I guess Christmas Eve wore her out. She was just not too interested in what Santa brought. She said she was just too tired. My family came to my house for Christmas breakfast and she soon got excited. It was a great, relaxing day for all. I just love my family and my life.

Christmas Eve Fun

2009-12-27T20:06:00.000-08:00

We all went to my Mom's house for Christmas eve food, fun, and presents. ER had a great time and got lots of cool stuff. We sure love Christmas around here! Then we went home to get ready for Santa. We laid out the milk and cookies by the fireplace so he would not miss them. ( ER had to get a little sample). We did not figure he would mind. Then off to bed we went- about 3 hours after our normal bedtime. We had one tired girl.

Fall is Here!!

2009-11-29T20:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Adoption Day

2009-10-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

2 years ago today we were in Chongqing City, China nervously waiting in the lobby of the hotel. I held a small stuffed bee in my hand and Vanous had the video camera. The babies came in through the lobby doors and I saw my ER for the first time. She was quiet and subdued. Not the ER that we all know and love. It did not take long for her to shine. And she has been shining ever since. Happy Adoption Day my princess. We love you sooooo much!!!!!!

Loving her Dolly!!!!

2009-09-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

Green beans

2009-09-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

ER got to plant her own bean seeds back in May at my parents house. Believe it or not- her plants came up and had lots of beans on them. She got to pick them herself and we put them in with my canning batch. We love green beans around here.

1st day of School and Swim Party

2009-08-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

We, and I do mean all of us started back to school on Wednesday. Hubby and I to our teaching jobs, and ER to daycare for the first time. She is staying with a woman I go to church with who keeps 9 other kids. She LOVES it!!!!! Friday night we attended a swim party for the "Families with Children from China". ER had a great time.

The many faces of ER!!

2009-07-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

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Summer Update

2009-07-13T06:01:00.000-07:00

We have been having a great time this summer. We have taken ER to the Nashville Zoo, participated in Bible School, and took a trip to the Smokey Mts. She loves being with us everyday and wears me out pretty quickly. But I love every minute!!!

Summertime fun

2009-06-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

We are having a great time this summer already. We took a short trip to watch the State Fastpitch softball tourney and have been playing outside every chance we get. ER got a new T-ball set from her daddy and has already started "training". We have a kiddie pool that she loves to splash in and she loves to take nature walks. ER got a new hair do set and is working hard on dad's hair. ( he needs a new do bad)... We love summer!!!

Children's Day, Mother's Day, and Toe Nail Day

2009-05-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

We have been having lots of fun lately with ER. She is growing fast and getting more beautiful every day. We spent Mother's day with family and ER presented me with a flower she picked out herself. We celebrated Decoration/Children's day at my church and ER was gorgeous in her dress covered with roses. And we had some girly time while painting our toenails and celebrating the fact that ER's hair will finally fit into a ponytail-- barely. Both hubby and I get out of school next week for the summer so we should post more often. Enjoy.

Easter Fun

2009-04-12T20:33:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter day. ER looked so cute in her dress and loved hunting eggs after church. It was a beautiful day here in Kentucky- just perfect for Easter. Hope you had a great day as well.

Oh what fun!!!

2009-03-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

We have our first "nastics" outfit we had to have and a new Church outfit from Aunt Juwie. ER loves to jump, role, and show her gymnastics skills. Life is so much fun around our house as ER hits her twos full stride.

Little Cheerleader

2009-03-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

It's basketball time her in my small town and me being a High School teacher- we have to go to lots of games. The tournaments were this week so we got all decked out in our red, white, and blue (school colors) and practiced cheerleading in the kitchen. ER loved every minute. Sadly, both girls and boys teams lost in my county but V's schools are still in it. Good luck.

Happy Smiles

2009-02-25T18:47:00.000-08:00

Winter is flying by for us and there has been little snow. ER is disappointed because she wanted to build a snowman really bad. We have been having fun other ways. Mainly staying at home and coloring, reading, building, playing, etc. She has learned to "cheese" for the camera. It is not her best smile but it is really cute. She is growing up soooooo fast. Enjoy the picts.

Jenn, Van, and ER

Chinese New Year

2009-01-31T05:19:00.000-08:00

We celebrated CNY a day early this year. We met our Families with Children from China (FCC group) at a resteraunt in BGreen. The little girls were dressed in their Chinese outfits and had a ton of fun. ER was wild. She loves playing with anyone- especially little girls who squeal, jump, and run like she does. Welcome to the Year of the OX.

Birthday Girl

2009-01-17T05:58:00.000-08:00

ER celebrated her 2nd birthday in style. We had her a DORA party on Saturday afternoon complete with a dora cake, dora balloons, dora everything. Several friends came and we had a great time. Our special guest was L who was ER's cribmate in the orphanage. We travelled back from China together and are blessed that L only lives about 45 minutes away from us. On Monday- her actual birthday- we celebrated at home with only Mom, Dad, and ER. She wore her crown and had a birthday cupcake with candle to blow out. We sang and opened more presents. Wow. Christmas followed by birthday makes for a lot of presents!

Christmas Morning

2008-12-29T20:30:00.000-08:00

Santa visited ER's house and left lots of goodies. She got a new talking dollhouse with all the accessories, a train ride toy, jack in the box, books, play dough, disney princess gear, tigger backpack, and more. She woke up late and just could not seem to get very excited. She is just like her parents. She wakes up very slowly and just would not be rushed. And forget about a smile. Not that early in the morning. haha.. She livened up later on in the morning but or course the camera was put away by then. We had a great day. Hope yours was as happy as ours was.

Christmas Eve Fun

2008-12-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas is HERE!!! It seems to have slipped up on us somehow. ER is full of excitement and joy. It sure makes a difference in our lives having a small toddler in tow. She is really loving all of the attention and presents. She got a new tricycle tonight as well as lots of other stuff. My nephews- Michael and Nicholas - can make ER laugh like noone else. Enjoy the pictures. She is a hoot. Can't wait til Santa visits in the morning. She will be wild!!!

Christmas Sunday- What a cutie pie!!!!

2008-12-22T07:15:00.001-08:00

Christmas is coming!

2008-12-16T20:36:00.001-08:00

Hard to believe we will have our second Christmas as a complete family. ER is growing so fast. She will soon be two and counts (in english and spanish), sings her ABCs, introduces herself and us, knows "baby Jesus", and will quickly tell us to go to the "toys". We have had so much fun hiding presents, shopping in the toy section, and taking pictures of Church programs and Christmas dresses.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T05:19:00.000-08:00

We had a good day at my Mom's house for a big meal and lots of talking. Of course we forgot the camera and took a couple of pictures when we got home. ER had a great day playing with her cousins and was worn out. We went shopping on the day after T-giving and then put up our tree. ER is fascinated with it all.

Adoption Day a Year Later and First Trick or Treating

2008-11-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

We kept our one year adoption celebration warm and personal with our family. We went to the local Chinese place in town for dinner and ER got two gifts we saved for her from China. A couple days later, ER was the cutest ladybug you would ever see for Halloween. Everywhere we went, she made out like a bandit. She held up well as we were out till 9:00 receiving some gracious gifts from family and friends. Not sure who was more worn out, her or us.

Can you believe its been a year!

2008-10-22T20:37:00.000-07:00

A year ago at the end of this week we got on a plane, flew across the US, across the ocean for 15 hours, to China, and in that country we found our Emma Rose. WOW! Look at her now one year later at the age of 22 months. She rules the roost and is wearing the crown here at the house. She climbs on her grand"pop" Brown hand-made rocking horse and says "ya hoooo" Nah Nah. She gets book for us to read. She counts to 10. She sings her A,B,Cs and twinkle, twinkle little star. We play had at the park, she climbs up on the bed to play tickle with daddy, and makes us both that really wonderful tired all the time. haha ER and mommy are even taking that first step to learn what the "potty chair" is all about. Life is truly a blessing. Up next...trick or treating!!!

New Pink Outfit

2008-09-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends gave ER the cutest outfit last fall and it finally fits. So cute. Notice she is practicing her "Nastics" for the next Olympics in the one picture. haha.

1 year ago

2008-09-19T14:38:00.001-07:00

One year ago- on September 4th- we received pictures and information about the cutest baby girl from China. We can not believe that she has grown so much and adjusted so well. She really is the joy of our lives. I tried sooooo hard to get her to sit still and hold her referral picture so I could get a good shot. But this one is the best I could do. 21 month olds don't sit still- ever.

Summer over/ Back to school

2008-09-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

WE sure had a great summer break. But all good things must end. Sigh!!! I just have not got around to posting much. sorry. We sure have been busy. We went to "lost river cave" with friends, went swimming a lot, went shopping a lot, and just hung out at the house a lot. Great fun. But I'm now back in school- and ER is going to my parents house during the day. She loves her Nannie and Pop and enjoys her days.

Smokey Mountains trip

2008-07-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

We took ER to the mountains for a week. She did not like the ride down there but loved the hotel! On the first day we took her to the Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Her eyes took in everything and the shark tunnel scared her. But in the end she liked it I think. She got to ride some of the kiddie rides and did a lot of shopping.

Fun in the Sun!

2008-07-16T06:36:00.000-07:00

ER and I have had a great summer. It has been a very busy one but very relaxing and lots of family time. ER went to Bible School, travelled to Smokey Mountaiins, and just hung out in our yard. She is such a joy to Vanous and me. I can't imagine what life was like before she came. It is a distant memory and it has not even been a year. Pictures are of my nephew Nicolas and Er, Friend Bryson and ER at Bible School, and ER washing and playing in her NEW CAR!!!

More pictures of EMMA ROSE

2008-06-08T15:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some picts of Mom, Dad, and ER on their hiking trip. And some of our gorgeous smiling angel!!! She was no so crazy about staying in that stroller and refused to smile at the camera. But as soon as she got out- she was back to her happy self. She alternated between riding in stroller, on Mom's hip, and on Dad's shoulders. It was a beautiful day and she was pooped out at bedtime.

Summer Fun

2008-06-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

WE are having a great time. School is out for both Mom and Dad and Emma Rose is staying home everyday with us. We went to Land Between the Lakes to go hiking and to the Nature station. ER loved the snakes the best. Groce. She is growing so much lately and starting to say lots of words we now recognize as English. So much fun.

Children's Day/ Memorial Day

2008-05-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. Thought you might enjoy some updated photos of our little princess. This Sunday was a special day at our church where the children perform, sing, etc. ER got all dressed up and was beautiful as usual. She has really grown during the last couple of weeks. She is getting taller and taller but staying slim. Her shorts fall off of her but to get the length I have to buy the next size up. She is loving being outside and going barefoot in the grass. She loves to help me water the flowers and gets soaked every time to her delight. I am out of school this week and will have lots of new picts up over the summer. Keep checking back. We had a scare with the BIG earthquake in China which was within her province. The epicenter was very near her orphanage and hometown but thank goodness both escaped serious damage. The Chengdu orphanages were not as lucky. We have been keeping up with all of the news. Over 50,000 dead. So sad.

Spring Break

2008-04-11T05:52:00.000-07:00

Emma Rose and I have been on spring break this week. Vanous had his break last week and spent the majority of it in Florida with his softball team. So we have been 2 girls on their own this week. I decided that this week would be all about ER and getting her together with other kids to play. Monday we went to Musikgarten class and the off to lunch with her friend Sarah and her mom. Tuesday- we went to eat with my family to celebrate birthdays and got to play with my nephews. Wednesday we played at Hopscotch with her Chinese travelmates. Thursday- our preachers daughter came over for the morning to play. Thursday night we went to see Daddy's team play softball. ER got all dressed up in her coach's daughter outfit and looked adorable as usual. Friday/today we are going to try to go shopping in Nashville- just us 2 girls. We might even get an ice cream cone or milkshake while we are out. Yea!! I think ER has had a good week. I know Mommy has.

More Easter Pictures!!

2008-03-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

This post contains family pictures. Not that any of us are as pretty as ER is but -- thought you might want to see the whole family!! (Remember that my sister is spending Easter on a Carribean Cruise and wants to see us in our finery. Scroll down for more Easter pictures of Emma Rose Brown!!!

Easter Day!

2008-03-23T18:41:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter Day. Emma Rose got up happy and ready to hunt eggs. (She had been practicing all week at her Nannie Rose's house). We put on her new green dress, pink bow, and pink coat and headed off to church. For once, she fell asleep during the service and we had to wake her up for the egg hunt, which is held immediately after church. She woke up quick and after bundling back up for the hunt- she was ready to go. At first, she wanted to just take her time and look at each egg. We persuaded her to put them in her basket and she finally got the hang of it. She was sooooo cute!!! This was one of those moments I have waited a lifetime for--- to help my baby egg hunt. We then went to Nannie Rose and Grandaddy's house for dinner and some more bonding time. She opened her "Easter present" there and quickly made a mess. But we love her anyways.
We missed having my sister and family with us. They are on Spring Break and are taking a cruise. I told them I would post lots of pictures of ER. So that explains why there are so many this time. Of course, I do like to show off my beautiful daughter too!!

Palm Sunday

2008-03-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

Since it was Palm Sunday, ER carried a palm branch down the aisle of the church along with the other children and laid it on the altar. Of course she was darling and we video taped it all. She looks good in yellow doesn't she? Friend Myra gave her some bath paint as part of her Easter present. She LOVED it. We will take tons of Easter pictures as well. Check back.

Playing in the Snow!

2008-03-15T17:26:00.000-07:00

We finally got enough snow to go outside and play in it a little. ER did not enjoy it as much as her Mom and Dad did.
I dressed her up in her pink snowsuit and she was so bundled up she couldn't move very well. We tied a rope to a plastic lid and tried to drag her around on it like a sled. She was not impressed. ha. We then went across the road to our Mennonite friends home and the 2 little girls over there took ER with them and she had a better time. ( Mom and Dad sat in the kitchen and had coffee and cookies.) By the next day all the snow was gone. But we did get a few pictures. Imagine that!!!

Jenn

Emma Rose is Walking!

2008-02-27T18:52:00.000-08:00

Yep. She is officially walking now. Not just a few faltering steps but really walking across the room on her own.
She is so proud of herself and smiles every time she hears us clapping and cheering. What a great feeling it is to see her growing and learning so fast. We just love parenthood. It snowed this week and we got a day off from school so we spent the day getting our taxes done and playing with the snowflakes. Emma Rose did not know what to do with the snowflakes falling down around us. She just reached out her hand and tried to catch them. So cute!!! Enjoy the pictures.

Our little Valentine!

2008-02-17T18:43:00.001-08:00

Emma Rose is growing, laughing, and doing well with her new family as we all get back to "normal" life. Both Vanous and I have started back to work. Emma Rose is staying with my parents- Nannie and Grandaddy- during the week and with my sister- Aunt Julie- on Fridays. She is having a big time at both places and seems to not mind being away from Mom and Dad. ( a little sad about that I have to admit.) She is almost walking by herself now and is exploring everything. She spent Valentines day at my Mom's with her 100% sweetness shirt on. CUTE!! She is climbing everything and invents ways to get in trouble. She sometimes zones out in front of the TV while sitting in my laundry basket. And has learned to ride her birthday zebra ride toy.
Vanous's softball team gave us a baby shower at the end of January. It was wonderful and we received many spring/summer outfits for the Princess to wear. She was also presented with a savings bond. WOW! Thanks girls!
She loves her cousin Nicholas and enjoys any time she gets to spend with him. So since we last posted- ER has taken a few steps on her own, seen her first snowflakes, survived the early morning trips to Nannies house, outgrown lots of her clothes, learned to climb, swallowed no telling how many unmentionable items I did not catch her putting in her mouth, slept through the night, woke every hour of the night, learned to blow raspberries, and how to do Indian calls. It sure has been a good month.
VAnous and I are enjoying every minute of it all!

Emma Rose's Baptism

2008-01-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

On the Sunday after her birthday we had Emma Rose baptized/christened/dedicated. She got all dressed up in her fancy white dress, white shoes, and pink bow. At the end of the service, Brother Chuck called us to the front along with our families. During his address to us and to the congregation, Emma Rose proceeded to clap, blow kisses, and point to the big stained glass window of Jesus that is directly behind the pulpit. Yea, it was cute. I have to admit it. She was all smiles until Brother Chuck put the water on her head. She lost her smile pretty quick after that. But it came back just as quick. Afterwards, while picture taking, she wanted to see in the baptismal font and feel the water. Very cute. Had to have a picture of it as well. And the bow made it until after everything was over!!! Now that was a miracle!!!

First Birthday Fun!

2008-01-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a birthday Miss Emma Rose had tonight. She was dressed in her official "First Birthday Hat" and "Bib" and was ready to party as soon as we arrived at our party spot. Emma Rose loved her pretty cake and had it all over her before she was through. She received lots of presents from her family and friends and we all sang Happy Birthday to her as she blew out her candle. In my opinion, it was a very successful first birthday party!! She crashed on the way home and is now fast asleep in her crib. I'm not sure what she wished for but I know what I did---- I wish her birthmother could know just how happy, healthy, and loved this little girl is. I know that somewhere tonight she is wondering about her baby girl and wishing she knew what had happened to her. That was my wish- that somehow she could have a little peace of mind.

Christmas Joy!

2008-01-10T18:40:00.000-08:00

What a Merry Christmas we had at the Brown house. Santa visited and left a ton of stuff for Emma Rose. She really had a great time over the holidays. By far, her favorite presents were the paper, bows, and boxes. We went to my parents house for Christmas Eve, to my sisters house for Christmas Day breakfast, and back to Nannie's for Christmas day supper. She was the center of attention everywhere we went. (of course she was-- look how cute she is!) Then 2 days after Christmas she got really sick. Went to doctor and received diagnosis of RSV and pnemonia. Got put in hospital on New Year's Eve day and stayed for 3 days. We are finally home again and she is doing great again. Vanous started back to school this week and it's been hard on us all. I dread when my time comes to go back. If my Mom wasn't keeping her I don't think I could ever work again. She has successfully said the word "cat" and is really close to saying several others. She isn't walking yet but is making lots of progress. Emma Rose's first birthday is on January 12th. Will post pictures of her party next!

Lazy days before Christmas!

2007-12-23T17:39:00.001-08:00

We have been enjoying all of the Christmas preparations and watching Emma Rose bloom. She has really learned a lot in the past few weeks. She can now say "CAT" very plainly and is feeding herself sooooo much better. She has learned to give Daddy kisses and hug her Dolly. We got all dressed up for Christmas 2 times lately. So Daddy made our pictures in front of the Christmas tree both times. Isn't Emma the cutest thing ever? And one pretty day that wasn't too cold- we put her in the hiking backpack and took the dogs for a long walk. Emma loved it and did not want to come out of the pack. We will definitely do that again soon! We are anxiously waiting for Christmas Eve when my family gets together. We will take lots of pictures of family and of what Santa brings to little Emma Rose this year. She has been very good and I expect her to get LOTS of stuff! Merry Christmas to all!!!!!

Home and Loving It!

2007-12-11T20:19:00.000-08:00

We are all still doing great and loving our bonding time at home. Vanous and I do nothing other than interact with Emma Rose. She is really learning fast. We had pictures made at a local photographer and they are beautiful. ( See link to pictures- Jacksons). We have been to church several times for different events and ER has loved all the attention. This last Sunday, it was our job to light the Advent candles as a family. While I read the scripture, Emma kicked her shoes off and pulled her bow out of her hair to the delight of the congregation. She is a funny girl and is usually all smiles and giggles. Christmas is almost here and we are trying to do some shopping, something I used to find easy to do. Now with a stroller, baby, bottles, diaper bag, etc., it gets a little difficult. Vanous is off until after Christmas and I don't go back to school until end of January so we still have lots of time to bond. I just LOVE this little girl. We can't imagine what we did before she came along?

3 weeks at home!

2007-12-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

We have had a interesting 3 weeks. The first week we spent getting over jet lag. The second we spent fighting Emma Rose's sinus infection. And this last week, both Vanous and I have had colds. We are so hoping that this week will be the week we are all well. Emma Rose is really starting to bloom. Her personality is shining and there are more smiles than tears lately. We have just been staying at the house getting to know each other better. We have been to church and to some small social events.
She seems to handle it just fine. We are still very cautious about "passing the baby around" due to our worry about attachment but that is hard to not do when everyone is soo happy to see her. She is saying mamamamama, dadadadada, and bababababa right now. She imitates well and is learning fast to do whatever Mommy shows her. Daddy is soooo much fun for Emma Rose. They play and laugh and do exactly what father/daughters are supposed to do. I love watching them. Vanous is such a good daddy and he is a natural. I think our homecoming has been a success. Enjoy the new pictures!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-25T19:01:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful day on Thursday. Emma Rose woke with a cough but we still were able to celebrate with family. She wore a new pink dress and charmed them all of course. We are sooo thankful this year for this little bundle of love we traveled halfway around the world to get. She has already captured our hearts and we can't imagine life without her in it.
The bad news is that Thanksgiving night- she woke up with a raging fever, had to go to the doctor Friday morning, and she has been really sick ever since. We had to skip church today because she just was not well enough to go. We are hoping by tomorrow she will be a little better. Parent lesson number 1002--- Sick babies get sicker at night!!

1 Week Later

2007-11-20T07:20:00.001-08:00

Well, we've been home for 1 week now and everyone is settling in. After a few days of NO SLEEP AT ALL, little Emma Rose is finally sleeping through the night. That means her Mom and Dad are sleeping as well- thank goodness. We went to church Sunday morning for the first time and then spent the afternoon at Nannie Rose's house. We can definitely see improvement in Emma's attachment and motor develepment. She now hesitates to go to anyone else and latches onto our necks when a stranger is near. She is definitely improving on her pulling up and cruising skills. I think she will be walking very soon. My cats don't quite know what to think of this new little person in their domain. They just stare at her until she sees them and starts crawling furiously toward them screaming her happy cry. Then they dissappear, after giving me a hateful look. Emma Rose has been shopping 3 times and seems to like her stroller (as long as it is moving). I think that after a week of family bonding time- we are all doing great!

Home and Adjusting

2007-11-13T08:41:00.001-08:00

Home and Adjusting Part 2

2007-11-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

WE made it home, finally, after 12 hours over the Pacific to LA, 5 hours over the US to Atlanta, and 1 hour to Nashville. WE were met at the airport with signs and cheers as we came out of the terminal. What good friends we have. Little Emma was a bit overwhelmed by all of the new faces but did not cry. ( I cried of course!) She was not so pleased to being strapped into that car seat but eventually went to sleep on the way home. In my yard I had signs welcoming ER home- made by my nephews Michael and Nicholas and by Lilli Berry- Emma's new "older sister". Our parents were there waiting to see their new granddaughter. ER woke up to smiling, happy, but unfamiliar faces and again was a bit overwhelmed. After a little bit of time she was smiling her gummy smile and melting everyone's heart.
We have now been home for 3 full days. WE are slowly adjusting to US time again. Emma is not sleeping well at all. She wakes up several time during the night crying. So- we are all still very tired but I feel it is slowly getting better. She is loving all her new toys and has discovered that watching TV/ videos is great. She watched Seseme Street this morning. (got to start working on that brain- right?) She is training her new parents to follow her every command. haha. We will just be glad to get back on a schedule. Hopefully that will happen soon!

A Final Word From China

2007-11-08T20:20:00.000-08:00

Our bags are checked at the front desk, our carry-ons are packed, and as you can see, Emma Rose is ready to say goodbye to her birth place and hello to her home. We have mixed feelings about leaving. We are so ready to go home and get back to Kentucky, but we know we are leaving the place that has given us more than we could imagine and hope for in Emma Rose. We think she knows. She woke up fussy this morning for the first time. We were packing and we think she recognized a change is coming. But after a nap and bottle, she knows we are not leaving her behind. She knows she is coming home with us forever.
We have a great respect for the pride, culture, hard work, and honor we found here in the people of China. We have a heart felt sympathy for their needs in terms of economics, water, environment, and freedoms we tend to take for granted. We found a book at one of the local shops that made us both cry and realize just how much someone here in China, nine and a half months ago, sacrificed and showed so much love for this little girl we now have as our daughter. For that woman, we are and will be eternally grateful for the joy she left on a Chinese orphanage step for us.
We would also like to say thank you to all who have followed our journey, whether in prayer or in comments made. We feel we are bringing our daughter back to a home and community of love. We will continue to share the next few months with you as Emma Rose adjusts to American life. US....here we come...a family!

Last Night at Guangzhou!

2007-11-08T05:33:00.000-08:00

So today was our last day in this city. It has been a great trip but we are sooooo ready to come home. Today we finished up our shopping for Emma Rose, ate at Lucy's one last time, started packing, and are fixing to go to bed early, since we all know I WILL NOT sleep on the plane. We check out in the morning by 12:00 and our bus leaves at 5:00 pm for the airport. Our flight takes off at 9:00 pm China time ( which is about 7:00 am US time). Before supper, all of the families in our group got together for a group photo in front of the waterfall in the White Swan. I will miss these new friends a lot. We have become pretty close during the last 2 weeks. But----- Miss Emma Rose Brown is ready to hit that Kentucky border and join the crowd in good ole Scottsville!!!! We are coming home-- finally--- as a family of 3. Just like I have wanted for a long time. See ya folks!!!

It's Final- She is ours!

2007-11-07T04:29:00.000-08:00

After a good breakfast at the White Swan buffet, we spent the afternoon at the US Consulate. We loaded a bus with a bunch of other families and headed downtown. After some initial paperwork, we raised our right hand, and took an oath that all our paperwork was real and we would love and care for Emma Rose forever. Then they handed us her passport with her Visa stamp inside that allows us to BRING HER HOME to the US. (and we are so ready to come home.) So China has said she is ours, and now the US has said that we can bring her home. It's over- finally. Now we wait for Friday to come so we can catch that plane. Emma Rose was full of herself today. She has eaten everything- she loves carrots- and has laughed, and clapped, and waved at everyone. So tonight she is zonked out on her favorite pillow- snoozing away. Aren't they cute!!!

Pretty in Red

2007-11-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening we once again ate at Lucy's. By far the best meals we have had since we came to China. We might venture out to another place tonight (but I doubt it). After we had dinner, we walked the Island some more and found a little shop with the cutest little clothes. We found this little red dress and so much more. Now you can see what we do every day and night....sit and stare at the blessing we have been given. Today we wait for Peter to go to the U.S. Consulate for the visa that lets Emma Rose come to the U.S. It is one of the last parts of the long trail of paper work we have done. If all goes well (and we pray we haven't forgotten anything), ER will be cleared to come the U.S. as of this afternoon. Vanous

She's healthy!

2007-11-05T00:48:00.000-08:00

We had to leave early this morning to go to the doctor to get our medical exam. After waiting and waiting in a crowded waitiing room we finally got to see the doctor. Emma Rose weighed in at 19 pounds and almost 29 inches long. She is very big and very healthy as compared to most chinese babies here. They poked and prodded her and she just stared and stared but no crying. She was very ready to come back to me though. She has learned to wave at us! It is soooooo cute. We haven't captured it on film yet though but we will. After the doctor, we stopped at the local Starbucks for coffee, bottle, and a diaper change. Then it was on to some MAJOR shopping. I just love this place. Lots of stuff for a real cheap price. I don't like to haggle over things though. I let Vanous do that for me. And he is really getting the hang of it too. We made some good deals today. We then went back to the room for some rest. As you can see- Daddy and daughter simply can't keep up with Mommy yet! We are still celebrating one big success. In one of the shops we were at, the owner reached out to take Emma Rose from Vanous so he could help me do something. She refused to go to him and hung on to Vanous like glue. That is what we have been waitiing to see- some sign of attachment. And she sure loves her Daddy. I can't blame her, I love him too!

Back from the tour!

2007-11-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our tour of some places in Guangzhou. We went to a 1500 year old Buddist temple ( where ER fell asleep within 2 minutes of entering the gate) , the Jade Market, and Jenn's favorite...a well known porcelin house. (which is not a good place for reaching little hands). We got some important gifts for the family (wonder who?) and saw some beautiful history of China. Now we are off to go eat and walk the streets around the White Swan. That means shopping for cute Emma Rose clothes and shoes (and of course water). To all the Mount Union crowd- we miss being at church and can't wait to bring this adorable baby to show off to everyone! Look in the first picture at Emma's first pair of "Squeaky shoes". Only the first of MANY!!

Guangzhou!

2007-11-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

We have read sooo much about Guangzhou and the White Swan hotel and it all seems more than what was described. There is English spoken. There are other Americans (lots actually) walking on the streets. There are shops that seem to welcome adoptive families. There are sqeaky shoes for about 25 yuan (3 dollars) a pair. We had american (close enough) food at Lucy's. We may eat there every night. AND we had the cutest daughter who fights to stay up when things are "happening" around her. But she does give in and sleeps sound. She is so good. God knew what kind of baby we needed, and he has blessed us with Emma Rose...sleeps thought the night...eats well...flys well...smiles big...studies all the things around her....BUT THEN AGAIN, SHES OUR DAUGHTER! SHE'S PERFECT!
Our room is smaller, the beds are hard, but the view is beautiful. Tomorrow we get up for breakfast (big meal here in China) and a tour of the city. We get to go to the Jade factory. When we return, we will hit some local shops. We are on the down hill run now.

Finally, a Change of Scene!

2007-11-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

We really liked Chongqing, and it is the place where we received the most precious treasure of our lives, and we will forever be indebted for that, but we were all ready for a change of scene. We got up this morning, quickly ate breakfast, finished packing and got on a bus for the hour long bus ride to the airport in order to fly 2 hours to Guangzhou. We had to ask...how could we have more than we started with...oh yea...we have a daughter who is in diapers and needs her own food supply. She is cute...think we'll keep her;-)
The night before, we had a birthday party. One of the adopted girls turned 1 while we were here. We ate from the hotel buffet and had a wonderful cake from one of the local bake shops in the square. We got some strange looks from the locals, but it was great for us all to get together in the home city of our new daughers one last time.
So...after an hour on the bus, zipping through the airport at the will of Xuelan, our guide, as no one spoke English, we got on a plane, then on another bus for the White Swan Hotel to start the first leg of our journey home....GUANGZHOU. Every child adopted in China goes through Guangzhou. Emma Rose was the perfect trooper. She never cried and waited until that evening back at the hotel--- to poop. That's our girl!!!!!!

Pajama Party

2007-11-01T21:14:00.000-07:00

Emma Rose slept LATE this morning after our big outing last night. We went on a bus tour of the city and did not return until after 10:00 pm. ER has been going to sleep around 7:00 pm. She stayed awake until we were on our way back to the hotel and then slept until 8:00 this morning. (That's my girl! Stay up late and sleep late!) We played in our new pink pajamas and even went to breakfast in them. She is just toooooo cute with her goofy grin. We leave tomorrow to fly to Guangzhou to finish the paperwork. All my group members say that there is a lot more to do and see there. I can't wait to get there. We're tired of this hotel, this room, and this city.

Lets go out again!

2007-11-01T00:52:00.000-07:00

Today we took our second family outing. We wen to, of all places in China, Starbucks! Once again people on the street and in the stores stare. Those that stop to say something (that we can't understand) are very nice. By the time we got back, little Emma Rose was tuckered out in her fancy Chinese stroller. How cute is that. You have the before, during, and after. AND you can see, when she wakes up in the mornings in the last picture, she needs her coffee (like her parents).

Mr. B's Extra Credit: Here in China, we can not drink the water or let it get in our mouth when we shower. We even have to brush our teeth with bottled water. It is full of harmful bacteria and pollutants. What is a "Bacteria"? Diagram one. Explain how they differ from the other kingdoms of living things.

Another day in Chongqing...

2007-10-31T03:42:00.000-07:00

We had another exciting day here in this city. Woke up, went down to breakfast buffet, went out walking around the same shops and malls we've already been in 4 times already, now back in room thinking about supper. Now I have to admit that sounds really boring. And it is somewhat- but we have found that with a baby now that the simplest thing sometimes is tough. Planning around naptimes and bottle times is confusing to 2 people who usually have no schedule at all. We took Emma Rose out shopping today and bought her a new Chinese outfit and new shoes. She really loves them, at least I think. We are so bored we just take lots of pictures of her to show to you all back home. Enjoy!

We pooped!

2007-10-30T00:21:00.000-07:00

What joy - what joy!! Never thought I would say such a thing as this. We thought about including a picture but decided
against this one. haha She is now asleep after such a "hard labor".

Mr. B's Extra Credit: All mammals poop. Explain the process of digestion and it's importance to the human body.

Adventure!

2007-10-29T23:05:00.000-07:00

2:17 here is China. Today we woke with a smile and we ventured out of the room as a family of 3. We went to breakfast where we found out we like congie. We strolled the hotel a little. We had a bottle and took a nap (see pic). We even, and this is big, went to the underground market. Every where we went, groups of women would gather and look. Every so often, one or two, with smiles on their faces would come up and talk to Emma and touch er little feet. A few would even use some broke english to say "beautiful". Jenn was able to get some great advice from many of the ladies on clothes to pick and size diapers to buy. Funny to watch Jenn communicate without a clue as to what is being said. And if you know how much Jenn does not enjoy change and the unpredictible, you know to laugh. She is so wonderful and is such a good mother (even after just two days). Tonight we are planning to go out to a steak house. Not sure where or what is meant by "steak", but we are feeling adventurous! We did buy Emma a Chinses "piggy bank". Mike, Micheal, and Nick will like to know that. haha Love to all. Thank you so much for your kind words and comments. we plan to keep them together for Emma to read years from now.

As for China...Its official!

2007-10-29T03:43:00.000-07:00

Its 7pm here. Emma is asleep in her crib and Jenn is sacked in the bed. Today we went next door to the Chinese Imagration and Adoption office in Chingqing. We got our picture taken as a familiy, we placed our finger prints on our names, and China recognized us as Emma Rose's offical adotive parents. Outside of that, we have spent the day being parents. We have changed wet diapers, played, bottled, napped, and never left the room (actually I went out to buy a stroller and water). Now we have to wait for 2 days for the passpot paperwork to arrive then its off to another city to start on the US side of things. Keep sending those comments. We will save them, print them, and give them to Emma when she is old enough to appreciate them.
Vanous

Mr. B's Extra Credit today...After buying water to drink because in China you can;t drink the water from the sink in almost all locations, explain how it is (in detail) you can drink the water in the us.

First Bath!

2007-10-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

We tackled the bath tub and Emma Rose loved the water. She splashed and splashed and let water run all over her face.
Therefore, we will be hitting that pool this summer!!!! First picture is right after her bath- note the Mavericks rattle in her hand- a gift from cousin Nicholas. The second is after we are dressed and ready to go see someone. (outfit courtesy of Myra). We have had a good morning. But we still haven't pooped yet and we have a bad rattle in our chest. So prunes have been added to the diet as well as apple juice. At 2:30 this afternoon we have to go to some government office to sign more papers and take our gifts. I've already been warned to dressed her in layers or I'll be in trouble. Isn't she a cutie!

From the new Mommy!

2007-10-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

First of all- scroll down for lots of Emma Rose's picts! What a great but emotional day. I did not cry very much- I was too overwhelmed I think. Emma Rose is a trooper. She came off that 3 hour bus ride without a tear in her eye and came right to me. She then proceeded to keep vanous and me entertained for the next 4 hours. She laughs the sweetest cackle and her smile lights up her whole face. She is by FAR the prettiest baby of all of those brought here today. haha. We finally got her to sleep. That was the first time she actually started crying and it broke our hearts. I think she was realizing that we weren't just here to play with her and she wanted to go back to her bed to sleep. But she finally got sooooo tired that she fell asleep after I put her in her crib. We are already nervous about what to do with her tomorrow. We hope she wakes with the same happy attitude but are ready if she does not. Thanks to all of you for your emails and comments. I love reading them and it makes me feel so blessed to have such great family and friends. As you all get up and go to church this morning- we are fixing to try to sleep a little. However, I can already tell that every little sound she makes will wake me up! VAnous is going to tackle the diaper change tomorrow, and we are going to have a first bath in the tub. I then have to go clothes shopping because most everything I brought is toooo big. (I so hate to shop for baby clothes!- oh well, you do what you gotta do!) Good night/ Good day to all! Keep the comments coming!

Jennifer