Well, this is our last post before we're stateside, and mainly, I feel immense gratitude to the Lord for this incredible journey and most of all, for our precious daughter. She continues to be a joy in the midst of appointments, travel, and crazy schedules. The constant change, different food, riding in buses all during nap time, and being surrounded by crowds of new people, and sweet Charlotte pops her thumb in her mouth, snuggles up, and takes it all in stride. We can't wait to bring her home to meet all of you! Just as it was for us, I'm sure you will be captivated by her sweet, gentle disposition.
God has gone before us in so many ways on this trip. He has kept us safe (and if you have seen traffic or crossing a street in China, that is huge!). Paperwork has gone smoothly and been processed on time. We have met incredible families and children that have been our travel companions and such an encouragement to our family. Our guides have been friends and blessings to us in an unfamiliar land. We have stayed healthy throughout this trip. We have bonded to Charlotte and Charlotte to us. Today on the way home from a shopping trip, Charlotte started saying, "DaDa," over and over. It melted Wade's heart. Our children at home have been cared for and had a wonderful vacation while we've been away. There are many more things that I could list, but suffice it to say, God's providence has sustained us and brought us hope, and we are more than grateful. Thank you for verses and texts and notes of encouragement - it has meant so much to us and always come at the most opportune time.
As we leave, there's a verse that seems to sum up our journey to China. It's from Isaiah 63:7-9: "I will recount the steadfast love of the Lord, the praises of the Lord, according to all the Lord has granted us, and to the goodness to the house of Israel, that He has granted them according to His compassion, according to the abundance of His steadfast love." We have seen the abundance of the Lord on this trip. When we reached the end of our rope, He gave us strength to go on. He has gone before us in so many ways, and the most abundant gift is the blessing of our sweet Charlotte. We truly feel privileged to be her parents and look forward to see God continue the work He has begun in her life. He has been faithful and compassionate, and we will look back on this trip and be able to praise His steadfast love to us.
We can't wait to see many of you on our return!
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Consulate Appointment- DONE!
Hello from Guangzhou!
I think it has been a day or 2 since our last post. Charlotte continues to be such a sweet, tender, introspective little girl. She sleeps well through the night, and we often have to get her up in the morning. I didn't realize that we had adopted a teenager trapped in a 2 year old body! We've spent our days touring various places, or just exploring the various options at the hotel. Also, we ventured out of the hotel to find a fun Thai restaurant where the staff stops every 15 minutes to sing and dance with the guests. You can guess that Charlotte did NOT want to be taken from Maran to participate in the dancing, but she was very interested in all of the activity.
Bonding is still going well for Maran, and she tolerates me only occasionally. That is to be expected, and it is truly a blessing since Maran is greatly equipped to meet the needs of a 2 year old. Occasionally Charlotte will let me feed her, or hold her for a minute while Maran dashes off to a restroom-- but mainly it is Charlotte and Mama, with Dada bringing up the rear- -holding items, passports, money and paperwork.
This morning (Monday morning), we loaded onto a bus and went back to the same office complex where we had our medical checkup on Saturday. Upon arriving, our guide went upstairs to collect the completed reports- and then we walked across the street (and through 1,000's of Chinese nationals who were queued up for their own non-adoption business) to the US Consulate building. It is fascinating that our guides know just the right way and place for us to go- as routinely we navigate what at first appears to be an interminable wait, with little or no issue. Once in side, we took an oath that basically said we knew what we were attempting to do (that is, bring a child from China to the USA to raise as our own), and then we presented our file of paperwork and were fingerprinted. It was nice to speak to the agent who worked there, as he spoke fluent English-- something we haven't heard from folks other than the families also staying here.
After a quick lunch, Maran and Charlotte are grabbing a nap, while I am off on an adventure to find sunscreen at a local drug store. After they wake up, we will lube Charlotte up and put her in a swimsuit for the first time to see how she likes the hotel pool.
Tonight we plan on heading back out to an Italian restaurant that is just a block away for pasta or pizza. Tomorrow is another site seeing outing in the morning, and then we start to organize and pack our bags for the trip home on Wednesday morning. We have had a great time over here, but I for one and ready to get back.
Prayer- Please pray that our paperwork is processed smoothly and they give us back Charlotte's completed visa tomorrow afternoon (we are supposed to get it at 4:15PM local time). Without that, we can't get on the flight on Wednesday- -so this is a key and final piece to this paperwork puzzle. Also, please go ahead and start praying for Maran as we approach "flying day", as well as for Charlotte traveling for that many hours in a plane. This is the part of the journey where we will be asking the most of her. As we've said, she has been a real trooper with all we've asked her to endure so far- -but this will be the biggest ask so far.
Have a great day. We love you and miss you all.
Wade and Maran
I think it has been a day or 2 since our last post. Charlotte continues to be such a sweet, tender, introspective little girl. She sleeps well through the night, and we often have to get her up in the morning. I didn't realize that we had adopted a teenager trapped in a 2 year old body! We've spent our days touring various places, or just exploring the various options at the hotel. Also, we ventured out of the hotel to find a fun Thai restaurant where the staff stops every 15 minutes to sing and dance with the guests. You can guess that Charlotte did NOT want to be taken from Maran to participate in the dancing, but she was very interested in all of the activity.
Bonding is still going well for Maran, and she tolerates me only occasionally. That is to be expected, and it is truly a blessing since Maran is greatly equipped to meet the needs of a 2 year old. Occasionally Charlotte will let me feed her, or hold her for a minute while Maran dashes off to a restroom-- but mainly it is Charlotte and Mama, with Dada bringing up the rear- -holding items, passports, money and paperwork.
This morning (Monday morning), we loaded onto a bus and went back to the same office complex where we had our medical checkup on Saturday. Upon arriving, our guide went upstairs to collect the completed reports- and then we walked across the street (and through 1,000's of Chinese nationals who were queued up for their own non-adoption business) to the US Consulate building. It is fascinating that our guides know just the right way and place for us to go- as routinely we navigate what at first appears to be an interminable wait, with little or no issue. Once in side, we took an oath that basically said we knew what we were attempting to do (that is, bring a child from China to the USA to raise as our own), and then we presented our file of paperwork and were fingerprinted. It was nice to speak to the agent who worked there, as he spoke fluent English-- something we haven't heard from folks other than the families also staying here.
After a quick lunch, Maran and Charlotte are grabbing a nap, while I am off on an adventure to find sunscreen at a local drug store. After they wake up, we will lube Charlotte up and put her in a swimsuit for the first time to see how she likes the hotel pool.
Tonight we plan on heading back out to an Italian restaurant that is just a block away for pasta or pizza. Tomorrow is another site seeing outing in the morning, and then we start to organize and pack our bags for the trip home on Wednesday morning. We have had a great time over here, but I for one and ready to get back.
Prayer- Please pray that our paperwork is processed smoothly and they give us back Charlotte's completed visa tomorrow afternoon (we are supposed to get it at 4:15PM local time). Without that, we can't get on the flight on Wednesday- -so this is a key and final piece to this paperwork puzzle. Also, please go ahead and start praying for Maran as we approach "flying day", as well as for Charlotte traveling for that many hours in a plane. This is the part of the journey where we will be asking the most of her. As we've said, she has been a real trooper with all we've asked her to endure so far- -but this will be the biggest ask so far.
Have a great day. We love you and miss you all.
Wade and Maran
Friday, June 17, 2016
God's Grace Is Sufficient
We made it through a few milestones since we last posted an update. We left Kunming behind and with it our super sweet guide and driver. They were awesome and so helpful while we were there. At the same time, this journey feels like it has 4 parts. Long travel to get here (done), provincial paperwork and gathering as much information about Charlotte's home town as we can (done), and then the US Consulate side of things in Guangzhou, and then the LONG trip home. So, to have 2 of the 4 things complete, we were ready to climb aboard our 2 hour flight from Kunming to Guangzhou.
As God has continually done time after time (after time), He provided a path and a way from Kunming to here. There were thunderstorms on the ground in both places, as well as high clouds and turbulence along the way. Despite Maran's great progress in the area of flying, it wasn't a great day to fly. Plus, we had no idea how Charlotte would react to her first time in a jet. However, God graciously answered our prayers (sometimes desperate pleas), as we were allowed to take off from Kunming despite the weather, and we were the 2nd to last flight allowed in to Guangzhou before the airport was shut down for weather. A few families told us this morning that they circled for more than an hour over the airport waiting on the storm to pass. Thank the Lord for our timely and safe arrival. Also, Charlotte was, as she has proven to be this whole trip, a trooper. She was a little restless, but eventually fell asleep and only awoke when she smelled other folks eating their box lunches/snacks. She and Margaret will get along famously in their love for snacks/samples/foods of all types!
Once here, we were struck by how much more modern and orderly Guangzhou feels. Perhaps that is the influence of being a former British colony, or maybe being a more modern city as compared to Kunming, but we are glad to be here and one step closer to coming home.
Charlotte had her physical examination this morning, and passed with flying colors. However, she was not a fan of having a tongue depressor stuck in her mouth, or being prodded by a strange doctor. In other words, she is a normal kid!
Our suite here at the Garden Hotel is lovely, and we are enjoying the room to spread out and rest. Today is more paperwork for me (Wade), and a nap and rest for Charlotte and Maran. Charlotte and Maran continue to be thick as thieves, and I get more attention now when food or candy is involved. But all in all, now that we are beginning to meet other families and hear of their stories/experiences- -we feel blessed and lucky with how agreeable and sweet Charlotte is. As long as we don't push meal time to far, and we get her in the crib at the right times- she will put up with just about anything else we have to do. Such a great blessing and answer to prayer.
Tomorrow (Sunday for us) will be some sight seeing and maybe some shopping. I hope to watch a little US Open coverage tonight if the internet connection holds.
Have a great weekend.
Love,
Wade and Maran
As God has continually done time after time (after time), He provided a path and a way from Kunming to here. There were thunderstorms on the ground in both places, as well as high clouds and turbulence along the way. Despite Maran's great progress in the area of flying, it wasn't a great day to fly. Plus, we had no idea how Charlotte would react to her first time in a jet. However, God graciously answered our prayers (sometimes desperate pleas), as we were allowed to take off from Kunming despite the weather, and we were the 2nd to last flight allowed in to Guangzhou before the airport was shut down for weather. A few families told us this morning that they circled for more than an hour over the airport waiting on the storm to pass. Thank the Lord for our timely and safe arrival. Also, Charlotte was, as she has proven to be this whole trip, a trooper. She was a little restless, but eventually fell asleep and only awoke when she smelled other folks eating their box lunches/snacks. She and Margaret will get along famously in their love for snacks/samples/foods of all types!
Once here, we were struck by how much more modern and orderly Guangzhou feels. Perhaps that is the influence of being a former British colony, or maybe being a more modern city as compared to Kunming, but we are glad to be here and one step closer to coming home.
Charlotte had her physical examination this morning, and passed with flying colors. However, she was not a fan of having a tongue depressor stuck in her mouth, or being prodded by a strange doctor. In other words, she is a normal kid!
Our suite here at the Garden Hotel is lovely, and we are enjoying the room to spread out and rest. Today is more paperwork for me (Wade), and a nap and rest for Charlotte and Maran. Charlotte and Maran continue to be thick as thieves, and I get more attention now when food or candy is involved. But all in all, now that we are beginning to meet other families and hear of their stories/experiences- -we feel blessed and lucky with how agreeable and sweet Charlotte is. As long as we don't push meal time to far, and we get her in the crib at the right times- she will put up with just about anything else we have to do. Such a great blessing and answer to prayer.
Tomorrow (Sunday for us) will be some sight seeing and maybe some shopping. I hope to watch a little US Open coverage tonight if the internet connection holds.
Have a great weekend.
Love,
Wade and Maran
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Shopping and Cultural History Tour
Today, is Day 6 in Kunming, and it is the last full day we have here in Charlotte's home town. We started the day early again, with both of us waking up during the middle of the night. Maran must have drawn the short straw, as she stayed awake for 2 hours, while I was able to fall back asleep for a while longer. Last night was the first night that Charlotte didn't fall asleep in her pack-n-play immediately when we put her down. She cried out (for Maran) several times and eventually fell asleep on her shoulder. That could be because she had a good, but later than her normal nap yesterday afternoon, or that could because she is starting to warm up to us and test to see if we will comfort her when she is sad. At any rate, once she fell asleep- she stayed that way until we all woke up around 7AM. We also got to Skype successfully with Margaret, which was an answer to prayer. Both kids are doing well, but we miss them terribly.
As for today- we experienced Jade shopping in a huge jewelry market. Quite the experience. Followed by a tour of a silk manufacturer and then another sales experience. As a lot of things, shopping looks different here than in the States. Here, they take the time to explain to you how the product came into being before asking if you want to purchase the item. And, the more you show uncertainty about needing or wanting the item, the more they become eager to bundle or package other items and give you discounts! Throw in confusion over the conversion of USD to Yuan and you have an interesting proposition. But thanks to our guide and my frugality, we navigated it all well. Charlotte is taking all of these various outings in stride- -happily riding in a stroller or in our lap as we weave in and out of the cars, scooters, and buses. She has been so agreeable.
After a morning of shopping, we went to the outskirts of the city to tour what I can best describe as a cross between a national park and Epcot. It was a place devoted to learning about the various minority groups/subsets of people groups in China. The Yunnan province has the largest percentage of non-Hahn (sp) peoples. Each opening in this vast garden-like setting at the foot of the West mountain (shrouded in mist and clouds), had a life-size replica of the typical housing, temple, and meeting place that each people group would have lived in. It was an interesting tour, and it was very nice to stroll along amongst the trees, lakes, and gardens without the hustle and bustle of the city.
The rest of today will be playing with Charlotte in the room, a dinner at a nice American-friendly restaurant across the street, and then we'll head to bed for the last time in Kunming. Tomorrow we'll eat breakfast, pack our bags, and head to the airport for a short (2 hour) flight to Guangzhou. There, we will be with lots of other families who are dealing with all of the same types of feelings and emotions, as well as the paperwork I anticipate being in English at the US Consulate office, which will be a nice change for us.
Please pray for good weather, safe travel, and for Charlotte not to get motion sick (or ears hurting) on her first plane ride.
Have a good day- -talk to you again on Saturday (likely).
Wade and Maran
Here are Maran and Charlotte in front of the entrance to the Minority Village. That was the actual name of the park, I'm not being disparaging.
View from the park facing the West mountain, overlooking a lake. Very lovely.
This is a replica of a Buddhist temple that is in one of the far-off places of Yunnan Province.
Another picture of the beauty of the country side outside a bustling city of 8 million people. The temperature was much lower today, which was very refreshing.
Final shot of us as we head out of the park, the beautiful West mountain still in the distance.
As for today- we experienced Jade shopping in a huge jewelry market. Quite the experience. Followed by a tour of a silk manufacturer and then another sales experience. As a lot of things, shopping looks different here than in the States. Here, they take the time to explain to you how the product came into being before asking if you want to purchase the item. And, the more you show uncertainty about needing or wanting the item, the more they become eager to bundle or package other items and give you discounts! Throw in confusion over the conversion of USD to Yuan and you have an interesting proposition. But thanks to our guide and my frugality, we navigated it all well. Charlotte is taking all of these various outings in stride- -happily riding in a stroller or in our lap as we weave in and out of the cars, scooters, and buses. She has been so agreeable.
After a morning of shopping, we went to the outskirts of the city to tour what I can best describe as a cross between a national park and Epcot. It was a place devoted to learning about the various minority groups/subsets of people groups in China. The Yunnan province has the largest percentage of non-Hahn (sp) peoples. Each opening in this vast garden-like setting at the foot of the West mountain (shrouded in mist and clouds), had a life-size replica of the typical housing, temple, and meeting place that each people group would have lived in. It was an interesting tour, and it was very nice to stroll along amongst the trees, lakes, and gardens without the hustle and bustle of the city.
The rest of today will be playing with Charlotte in the room, a dinner at a nice American-friendly restaurant across the street, and then we'll head to bed for the last time in Kunming. Tomorrow we'll eat breakfast, pack our bags, and head to the airport for a short (2 hour) flight to Guangzhou. There, we will be with lots of other families who are dealing with all of the same types of feelings and emotions, as well as the paperwork I anticipate being in English at the US Consulate office, which will be a nice change for us.
Please pray for good weather, safe travel, and for Charlotte not to get motion sick (or ears hurting) on her first plane ride.
Have a good day- -talk to you again on Saturday (likely).
Wade and Maran
Here are Maran and Charlotte in front of the entrance to the Minority Village. That was the actual name of the park, I'm not being disparaging.
View from the park facing the West mountain, overlooking a lake. Very lovely.
This is a replica of a Buddhist temple that is in one of the far-off places of Yunnan Province.
Another picture of the beauty of the country side outside a bustling city of 8 million people. The temperature was much lower today, which was very refreshing.
Final shot of us as we head out of the park, the beautiful West mountain still in the distance.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Orphanage Tour and Tea Tasting
Hello everybody from Kunming, Yunnan, China. Day 5, starting to feel like Day 20!
Today was a hard but good and necessary day. We woke up at our new normal time, around 6:30AM and were dressed, fed, and ready to meet our driver and guide at 8:30AM for the ride to Charlotte's orphanage. As close as she was to her nannies, we knew that Charlotte would be sad. And we were right. But what was amazing and truly yet another sign of God's love and Providence for our little one -- Charlotte's relationship wasn't a one-way street. These nannies loved her so much. They remembered her, doted on her, and showed us numerous pictures on their phones of her at various stages in her life at the orphanage. It is one thing to have a job as a child care worker at an orphanage, and to make sure that the children are fed, clean, have fresh diapers, etc., and quite another to save pictures and videos of a child on their personal phone for going on 1+ years. The orphanage was very clean, and consisted of quite a large campus- -even having a small hospital on the premises. We think that not all orphanages are as updated and nice as this one, and again are thankful for how well Charlotte was taken care of before she was placed in our family. At each mini-reunion with another group of nannies, there would be tears and sobbing by most of us, and then we'd move on to the next part of the campus where Charlotte spent her days. Finally we arrived back at the van to leave, and there were more pictures, hugs, kisses and crying. But to Charlotte's great credit, she cried for about 10 minutes and then settled back in with Maran. She is a brave little girl. It is important for her to grieve this portion of her life that is now over, but we are told and firmly believe that it was a necessary step in helping see that being with us at a hotel far away from her orphanage is not some cruel field trip or experimental summer camp-- but instead this is forever.
After we left the orphanage, we moved on to more of a sight-seeing activity, and received a very interesting tutorial and history lesson on the tea that is grown in this region of China. And because Maran was helping keep Charlotte entertained, I became a tea brewing master. I can give you all of the reasons for its health benefits and can brew a cup that will dazzle your pallet, while simultaneously regulating your cholesterol and digestive system. Who knew? Now we know!
We are already seeing a few signs of Charlotte coming more and more out of her shell. We just had an American style lunch, and she is clearly communicating what she wants and needs. She still isn't sure if I am a permanent part of this equation, but seems pretty well sold on Maran. That in itself is an answer to prayer, as I am sure she will warm up to her talented government-paper-work filler-outter, deceased movie heartthrob look-alike, who is becoming pretty attached to his sweet, new fanny pack (really, it is quite versatile and useful).
Just a few pictures today, and a prayer request. Yesterday Maran started to feel homesick, and today it is my turn. The emotions involved with what we are doing, the unfamiliar surroundings, the distance from home, our kids, etc. are sinking in. Please pray that we both would continue to feel God's presence in new and affirming ways, and that we would get the 2nd (and 3rd, 4th, etc.) winds that we need to shine the love of Jesus to those we meet and to bond Charlotte to us well. Thank you for all of your diligence in prayer for us to date- -we so appreciate it.
Until tomorrow afternoon,
Wade and Maran
Us outside the director's/admin building with the kind worker who does the Chinese side of all the paperwork so that children can be adopted.
Hanging on the walls are pictures of the children, and here is our little Charlotte when she was probably closer to 1 years old.
Here is an outdoor playground, one of Charlotte's favorite places to be (per her nannies). She will love our playset and backyard at home with Margaret and Sarah Catherine.
One of the many nannies who loved and adored Charlotte- this one we think was from her most recent play room.
These are the infant nannies who as I mentioned above, still had videos and photos of Charlotte on their phones. They were SO excited to see her and hold her again.
A group shot of the nannies and hospital workers that cared for Charlotte.
Tea time in China! We already feel healthier inside, with increased liver function!
Today was a hard but good and necessary day. We woke up at our new normal time, around 6:30AM and were dressed, fed, and ready to meet our driver and guide at 8:30AM for the ride to Charlotte's orphanage. As close as she was to her nannies, we knew that Charlotte would be sad. And we were right. But what was amazing and truly yet another sign of God's love and Providence for our little one -- Charlotte's relationship wasn't a one-way street. These nannies loved her so much. They remembered her, doted on her, and showed us numerous pictures on their phones of her at various stages in her life at the orphanage. It is one thing to have a job as a child care worker at an orphanage, and to make sure that the children are fed, clean, have fresh diapers, etc., and quite another to save pictures and videos of a child on their personal phone for going on 1+ years. The orphanage was very clean, and consisted of quite a large campus- -even having a small hospital on the premises. We think that not all orphanages are as updated and nice as this one, and again are thankful for how well Charlotte was taken care of before she was placed in our family. At each mini-reunion with another group of nannies, there would be tears and sobbing by most of us, and then we'd move on to the next part of the campus where Charlotte spent her days. Finally we arrived back at the van to leave, and there were more pictures, hugs, kisses and crying. But to Charlotte's great credit, she cried for about 10 minutes and then settled back in with Maran. She is a brave little girl. It is important for her to grieve this portion of her life that is now over, but we are told and firmly believe that it was a necessary step in helping see that being with us at a hotel far away from her orphanage is not some cruel field trip or experimental summer camp-- but instead this is forever.
After we left the orphanage, we moved on to more of a sight-seeing activity, and received a very interesting tutorial and history lesson on the tea that is grown in this region of China. And because Maran was helping keep Charlotte entertained, I became a tea brewing master. I can give you all of the reasons for its health benefits and can brew a cup that will dazzle your pallet, while simultaneously regulating your cholesterol and digestive system. Who knew? Now we know!
We are already seeing a few signs of Charlotte coming more and more out of her shell. We just had an American style lunch, and she is clearly communicating what she wants and needs. She still isn't sure if I am a permanent part of this equation, but seems pretty well sold on Maran. That in itself is an answer to prayer, as I am sure she will warm up to her talented government-paper-work filler-outter, deceased movie heartthrob look-alike, who is becoming pretty attached to his sweet, new fanny pack (really, it is quite versatile and useful).
Just a few pictures today, and a prayer request. Yesterday Maran started to feel homesick, and today it is my turn. The emotions involved with what we are doing, the unfamiliar surroundings, the distance from home, our kids, etc. are sinking in. Please pray that we both would continue to feel God's presence in new and affirming ways, and that we would get the 2nd (and 3rd, 4th, etc.) winds that we need to shine the love of Jesus to those we meet and to bond Charlotte to us well. Thank you for all of your diligence in prayer for us to date- -we so appreciate it.
Until tomorrow afternoon,
Wade and Maran
Us outside the director's/admin building with the kind worker who does the Chinese side of all the paperwork so that children can be adopted.
Hanging on the walls are pictures of the children, and here is our little Charlotte when she was probably closer to 1 years old.
Here is an outdoor playground, one of Charlotte's favorite places to be (per her nannies). She will love our playset and backyard at home with Margaret and Sarah Catherine.
Tea time in China! We already feel healthier inside, with increased liver function!
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Paperwork, Patrick Swayze, and Firsts
Our first night with Charlotte was a dream. She prefers to be held right now and would cuddle up close, taking everything in. I gave her a bottle and she fell right to sleep and slept through the night, with no issues. This morning at breakfast, she seemed to enjoy trying new foods, and really liked French toast and bites of my omelet.
Today we completed all of the paperwork in China, and the Chinese government officially recognizes us as Charlotte's parents. As many of you know, Wade has a gift for being organized with paperwork, and all of the ladies at City Hall (which is actually government officials meeting in an apartment), would say, "Your husband is so handsome and so smart with paperwork. He reminds me of that actor in the movie Ghost." So, Wade has been admired for his Patrick Swayze looks and his penchant for filling out government forms. If only they could see his dancing and pottery skills.
While we completed the paperwork, Charlotte played happily on my lap with the elephant toy which Margaret picked out and came out of her shell a little bit. She also said her first word for us, which was, "Mama." It was a beautiful sound!
After we got the forms done and her passport applied for, our guide suggested we drive to the place where Charlotte was found as an infant. What was supposed to take 30 minutes took a couple of hours. Our guide and driver knew the general area (like knowing where Norcross is in relation to Atlanta), but didn't know how to get to the actual park. They stopped a few times to ask and nobody seemed to know how to get there. Finally they found a man on a scooter, who guided us, all the while stopping pointing to a place and then starting over again. It was definitely an adventure. I so appreciated our guide persevering in finding the place because I think Charlotte will want to see and know that part of her history. She was left on a sidewalk right across from a school and police office, and our belief is that the parents knew that she would be taken to safety in the midst of such a crowded place. I pray that God would supernaturally let them know that she is loved and cared for, as I'm sure they had no other option. Many families here don't have the resources to care for a sick baby, and they know that the government can hopefully get them the care they need. I can't imagine having to make such a heart wrenching decision. While we were in our marathon car ride, Charlotte cuddled up and took a nap. I'll post some pictures of her in front of the place where she was rescued at the bottom of this post.
When we returned to the hotel, I played with Charlotte, while Wade went to get lunch, and she laughed for the first time with me. She lifted up her toes and I played "This Little Piggy", and she giggled and held out her toes again. She seems to have moments where she is able to open up and smile or play, but there are also times when she seems overwhelmed and will cuddle up or sleep. We are grateful that we have the freedom and time to let her needs dictate what we do.
The rest of the day will be spent around the hotel, walking around a nearby park, and venturing out for dinner. Tomorrow we will visit her orphanage and meet her nannies. Evidently, it will be hard day for the nannies, as she was a favorite with them.
Have a wonderful day! Love to all,
Maran and Wade
Bonus shot of the first smile we caught on camera. Or should I say the first one that MaMa caught on camera while Dada was out of the room.
Today we completed all of the paperwork in China, and the Chinese government officially recognizes us as Charlotte's parents. As many of you know, Wade has a gift for being organized with paperwork, and all of the ladies at City Hall (which is actually government officials meeting in an apartment), would say, "Your husband is so handsome and so smart with paperwork. He reminds me of that actor in the movie Ghost." So, Wade has been admired for his Patrick Swayze looks and his penchant for filling out government forms. If only they could see his dancing and pottery skills.
While we completed the paperwork, Charlotte played happily on my lap with the elephant toy which Margaret picked out and came out of her shell a little bit. She also said her first word for us, which was, "Mama." It was a beautiful sound!
After we got the forms done and her passport applied for, our guide suggested we drive to the place where Charlotte was found as an infant. What was supposed to take 30 minutes took a couple of hours. Our guide and driver knew the general area (like knowing where Norcross is in relation to Atlanta), but didn't know how to get to the actual park. They stopped a few times to ask and nobody seemed to know how to get there. Finally they found a man on a scooter, who guided us, all the while stopping pointing to a place and then starting over again. It was definitely an adventure. I so appreciated our guide persevering in finding the place because I think Charlotte will want to see and know that part of her history. She was left on a sidewalk right across from a school and police office, and our belief is that the parents knew that she would be taken to safety in the midst of such a crowded place. I pray that God would supernaturally let them know that she is loved and cared for, as I'm sure they had no other option. Many families here don't have the resources to care for a sick baby, and they know that the government can hopefully get them the care they need. I can't imagine having to make such a heart wrenching decision. While we were in our marathon car ride, Charlotte cuddled up and took a nap. I'll post some pictures of her in front of the place where she was rescued at the bottom of this post.
When we returned to the hotel, I played with Charlotte, while Wade went to get lunch, and she laughed for the first time with me. She lifted up her toes and I played "This Little Piggy", and she giggled and held out her toes again. She seems to have moments where she is able to open up and smile or play, but there are also times when she seems overwhelmed and will cuddle up or sleep. We are grateful that we have the freedom and time to let her needs dictate what we do.
The rest of the day will be spent around the hotel, walking around a nearby park, and venturing out for dinner. Tomorrow we will visit her orphanage and meet her nannies. Evidently, it will be hard day for the nannies, as she was a favorite with them.
Have a wonderful day! Love to all,
Maran and Wade
Monday, June 13, 2016
Charlotte Day!!!!!
It is with such delight, gratitude, and humility that we present the newest member of our family, Charlotte Evelyn Grace!
What a long day it was waiting for our time to go and get Charlotte. We were tired from travel and went to sleep Sunday night around 8:30PM. Maran awoke around 2AM, and I fared a little better- waking up around 5:00AM. A mix of jet lag/time change and anticipation was behind all of the sleeplessness. Finally 2:30PM came and we met our driver and guide, and then we held our breath as we dodged scooters, cars and pedestrians to get to the apartment across town where our meeting with the Civil Affairs and one of Charlotte's nannies was to take place. Two other families were there receiving their children, but Charlotte was delayed in traffic (although her orphanage was closest), so we got to see how the sometimes chaotic/emotional hand-off would go from the other groups. However, as God has continued to do, and I have to think as a result of all our our faithful friends who have been praying so fervently- -when Charlotte arrived, she immediately went to Maran and never let go. In fact, back at the hotel now as I type this- she is peacefully sleeping in Maran's arms on the bed. We think that she is a very introspective and thoughtful little girl, taking all of the activity in, not yet showing a lot of emotion or crying. We found out today that all of the nannies at the orphanage loved her, and one in particular cried today when she left. They had bought her two special outfits for today's meeting- she definitely seemed to have been well-loved and even cherished by her caregivers. We also saw that the elephant that Margaret picked out for her in the care package we sent several months ago was with her, and seems to be one of her favorite toys!
We were somewhat anxious as we waited for her to arrive, but it really could not have gone better. Praise the Lord for His continued provision for us! Charlotte is with her forever family now, and we feel so blessed and grateful to have her. Please pray for continued bonding and attachment with us both- -I haven't held her yet, but have wiped a few small tears from her eyes and kissed her a few times on the head. She also came to us with the picture book we sent a few months ago, and we think that her nannies did a good job of preparing her. for today But, we give all of that praise and credit to the Lord. The rest of this evening will be feeding her a bottle and some rice cereal tonight at dinner, putting her to bed (and us too soon after). Tomorrow morning is the 2nd round of paperwork, and then we will figure out what she is up for. Thanks again for all of your prayers and well wishes!
So grateful for what He has done,
Wade and Maran
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Overwhelming Gratitude
I (Maran) feel like I have been using the word overwhelmed a lot lately, and I'm sorry for the repetition, but it's the best way I know how to express to all of you this experience. It already feels like years ago when Wade and I were on our way to the airport, but I'm sitting here in Kunming, the day before we pick up Charlotte.
I'm truly overwhelmed by the wonderful texts and prayers throughout all flights. Many of you know that flying isn't my favorite, but God answered the prayers, and even exceeded our expectations. On the flight from Atlanta to Los Angeles, one of the flight attendants asked us why we were going to China. We explained our trip and as we got off the plane, she handed us a bag of extra snacks for our journey. It wasn't just pretzels or peanuts either, but biscotti, and the food that you normally have to buy on the plane. It was one of those ways that God shows His kindness through others.
When we arrived in Kunming, our guide was there to meet us and the first thing she told us was that she had gone to Charlotte's orphanage a couple of days ago and had another picture to share with us. I wish I could share it with you below, but our technological capability is low and she wasn't sure how to text it to me. The adoption coordinator at the orphanage bought Charlotte a special dress for the occasion of meeting us on Gotcha Day. Our guide continued to repeat how loved Charlotte was by the nannies and the adoption coordinator, and that her personality was sweet and kind. Our guide's name is Susan, and there was an instant connection.
Our plan is to find food, rest, and reconnect with Susan tomorrow at 10. She has some things to show us before our 2:30 appointment of picking up Charlotte. We're so happy to be here and will look forward to sharing more with you after Gotcha Day.
Love,
Wade and Maran
I'm truly overwhelmed by the wonderful texts and prayers throughout all flights. Many of you know that flying isn't my favorite, but God answered the prayers, and even exceeded our expectations. On the flight from Atlanta to Los Angeles, one of the flight attendants asked us why we were going to China. We explained our trip and as we got off the plane, she handed us a bag of extra snacks for our journey. It wasn't just pretzels or peanuts either, but biscotti, and the food that you normally have to buy on the plane. It was one of those ways that God shows His kindness through others.
When we arrived in Kunming, our guide was there to meet us and the first thing she told us was that she had gone to Charlotte's orphanage a couple of days ago and had another picture to share with us. I wish I could share it with you below, but our technological capability is low and she wasn't sure how to text it to me. The adoption coordinator at the orphanage bought Charlotte a special dress for the occasion of meeting us on Gotcha Day. Our guide continued to repeat how loved Charlotte was by the nannies and the adoption coordinator, and that her personality was sweet and kind. Our guide's name is Susan, and there was an instant connection.
Our plan is to find food, rest, and reconnect with Susan tomorrow at 10. She has some things to show us before our 2:30 appointment of picking up Charlotte. We're so happy to be here and will look forward to sharing more with you after Gotcha Day.
Love,
Wade and Maran
Friday, June 10, 2016
At the Airport!!! It's GO TIME
Well, the time has finally come. All the preparations have been made. The hay is in the barn. If you don't have it or know it now, you aren't going to know it. Those are all the cliches I can think of.
Thank you all for the prayers, texts, and well wishes over the last few days. Thank you also to all of those that have committed to faithfully pray for us as we go. We can't believe it is finally here. Thank you also to our parents, the Evans, and Gettmanns for caring for our children while we are away. We hope that they want to come home at the end of all this.
Here is the verse that we are holding on to as we get ready to board for the first of 3 flights, and almost 30 hours of travel.
Isaiah 41:9
"I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you."
He has chosen us for Charlotte, and Charlotte for us! What an amazing God we serve!
Have a great weekend, we will hopefully (internet and VPN connections willing) update you when we land on Sunday in China.
Love,
Wade and Maran
Thank you all for the prayers, texts, and well wishes over the last few days. Thank you also to all of those that have committed to faithfully pray for us as we go. We can't believe it is finally here. Thank you also to our parents, the Evans, and Gettmanns for caring for our children while we are away. We hope that they want to come home at the end of all this.
Here is the verse that we are holding on to as we get ready to board for the first of 3 flights, and almost 30 hours of travel.
Isaiah 41:9
"I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you."
He has chosen us for Charlotte, and Charlotte for us! What an amazing God we serve!
Have a great weekend, we will hopefully (internet and VPN connections willing) update you when we land on Sunday in China.
Love,
Wade and Maran
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Consulate Appointment and Plane Tickets Booked!
A quick note to again praise God for His faithfulness and provision! We were able to get Monday, June 20th for our US Consulate appointment- the first available day of that week following the day we get Charlotte. Having that happen early that week will help us travel back home sooner and be back in time to pack up and take SC to summer camp that weekend.
Thanks for your continued prayers for us. We are so grateful!
Wade and Maran
Thanks for your continued prayers for us. We are so grateful!
Wade and Maran
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Travel Approval
Today is the day that we have been waiting for since August, when we began our lengthy application process to adopt from China. The past few months have been like Christmas, ever since we were matched with Charlotte, and with each milestone, we've gotten closer to our ultimate goal: meeting Charlotte and bringing her home to her family and friends. I have to add an aside here about her/our family and friends. Sharing this news and excitement with all of you has confirmed what Wade and I already knew - in the area of family and friends, we are rich. I get emotional when I think about the support network that Charlotte will have and the Godly people that will surround her and love her. You have overwhelmed Wade and I with your generosity, prayers, love, and to be able to bring her into this group of people is a gift.
God has truly gone before us in speeding up a process that is normally not sped up. It really is unheard of for government agencies to take a shorter amount of time to process a family in the adoption process. Normally, you face the opposite issue. So, we have been amazed to hear time and time again, "Wow, that should have taken a couple of months, or a few weeks, but we've already gotten back your clearance." So, it's no surprise that today was similar. We knew that our paperwork had been picked up at the China Consulate yesterday (the last step of the process), but we didn't know how long before we received approval from China to travel and our dates. Wade emailed the travel coordinator this morning, and soon after I got a call. She was about to email us that we would have to wait a couple of weeks when she noticed an email that gave us our travel approval and she added that we were the fastest approval they've had. So, with that, our Gotcha Day will be on Monday, June 13, and our consulate appointment in Guangzhou will be the following week, either June 20, 21, or 22.
Please pray for the details that surround the preparations to travel, for Wade and myself, but also for Sarah Catherine and Margaret, as we're away. Please pray for Charlotte as she will be taken away from all that's familiar to her, and that Wade and I will be able to comfort her and be what she needs us to be throughout a difficult couple of weeks for her. Pray that Wade and I will be an encouragement and a reflection of God's grace with the people that we have the privilege of interacting with in China.
Someone was praying with us on Sunday and she said something that I've been holding onto because it's exactly how I feel, but wasn't eloquent enough to verbalize. This is God's idea and His plan, and He is preparing every part of it, from the flights to the people that we'll meet, as well as His provision for Sarah Catherine and Margaret while we're gone. Wade and I are incredibly grateful to be a part of this story, and look forward to seeing the unfolding of it, knowing He will reveal more of His goodness and grace throughout the journey. Thank you for being a big part of it as well.
God has truly gone before us in speeding up a process that is normally not sped up. It really is unheard of for government agencies to take a shorter amount of time to process a family in the adoption process. Normally, you face the opposite issue. So, we have been amazed to hear time and time again, "Wow, that should have taken a couple of months, or a few weeks, but we've already gotten back your clearance." So, it's no surprise that today was similar. We knew that our paperwork had been picked up at the China Consulate yesterday (the last step of the process), but we didn't know how long before we received approval from China to travel and our dates. Wade emailed the travel coordinator this morning, and soon after I got a call. She was about to email us that we would have to wait a couple of weeks when she noticed an email that gave us our travel approval and she added that we were the fastest approval they've had. So, with that, our Gotcha Day will be on Monday, June 13, and our consulate appointment in Guangzhou will be the following week, either June 20, 21, or 22.
Please pray for the details that surround the preparations to travel, for Wade and myself, but also for Sarah Catherine and Margaret, as we're away. Please pray for Charlotte as she will be taken away from all that's familiar to her, and that Wade and I will be able to comfort her and be what she needs us to be throughout a difficult couple of weeks for her. Pray that Wade and I will be an encouragement and a reflection of God's grace with the people that we have the privilege of interacting with in China.
Someone was praying with us on Sunday and she said something that I've been holding onto because it's exactly how I feel, but wasn't eloquent enough to verbalize. This is God's idea and His plan, and He is preparing every part of it, from the flights to the people that we'll meet, as well as His provision for Sarah Catherine and Margaret while we're gone. Wade and I are incredibly grateful to be a part of this story, and look forward to seeing the unfolding of it, knowing He will reveal more of His goodness and grace throughout the journey. Thank you for being a big part of it as well.
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Welcome!
Welcome to the first simple post of our blog, chronicling our journey to China to pick up our sweet Charlotte. We started on this adventure after being prompted by the Holy Spirit leaving Easter service last year (2015), and are now about 4-5 weeks away from travel. Here is a very recent picture of the newest member of the Grace family, Charlotte Evelyn Grace
This post is more about getting things set up, and getting the kinks worked out. We need and appreciate your prayers as we approach travel to China, and especially once we get over there.
Have a blessed week,
Wade and Maran
5/10/16
This post is more about getting things set up, and getting the kinks worked out. We need and appreciate your prayers as we approach travel to China, and especially once we get over there.
Have a blessed week,
Wade and Maran
5/10/16
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