Adventures in Adopting

We are HOME!!!!

2012-01-21T06:20:00.002-04:00

We got in yesterday afternoon. Reagh was really good and full of energy when meeting everyone. We are going to try to get caught up on some much needed sleep, so we'll post more very soon. Thanks for all the support out there. We so appreciated it all.

China's bathrooms

2012-01-17T22:18:00.000-04:00

I got a few people ask me about the bathroom situation here. I have added a photo so you can see that it's basically a toilet in the floor. You have to squat to use the bathroom. It not my cup

of tea but hey it works in a pinch...lol They do have western bathrooms but not a lot of places have them so this is what you have to use if you can't hold it.

Kelly

Pearl Market and Silk Factory

2012-01-17T17:09:00.000-04:00

Reagh woke up every 2 hours last night so TJ decided to stay back at the hotel with him so he could rest up. They are both still sick so it was best for them to just relax for the day.

We went to the silk market first and it was so interesting to see the way they make the silk from the cocoons. there's a lot of thread in one of them. I have attached a few pictures of the machines that make the thread and one of the wall hangings they had. They also had so many silk outfits that were amazing. There was so much to choose from and we had very little time. I got Reagh a sign with his name in Calligraphy to hang by his bed.

We then got rushed off to the pearl market that was just above the market to barter at. There were so many pieces that I could have gotten so many to take home but I decided to keep my money for the shops below.

I got Reagh two outfits for the Chinese New year. They are so cute! I didn't haggle them so well at first but as the day went on I became a pro. I had one lady get so upset with me over a purse that she threw her calculator across the area she was in and told me how stupid I was...I couldn't stop by laugh. I just walked away and got the same thing from another worker just down a few shops. There were so many knock off purses that I could have taken so many home. If I have time before we leave I might sneak back to get another one...lol As I was looking for something for TJ I had a worker try to get me to stop and look in her shop by grabbing onto my arm. I dragged her about 15 feet before she finally let go and got the hint. Mind you I was laughing the whole time while she kept calling me her friends and she had a great price just for me....lol There wasn't much for TJ there as you can imagine the size difference. All he wants is slippers and it seems they are even hard to find. Oh well. We ended up having to leave just as things were getting on a roll of bartering. I was just getting so good at it.

We went to supper with another family and their children. We had a great meal with great new friends. It's nice to have such a great couple to spend some down time with. They have been so good to us with figuring out what to feed Reagh. Their little boy didn't want half of the food they took so they handed it over to us for Reagh. Now our little piglet Loves everything you put in front of him. He's grown so much since we got him. his little belly is now starting to round out a little. I think he didn't get much where he was from so he's now just wanting to eat everything in sight.

Reagh is such a delight. It's hard to believe that he's only been with us a short time that it feels like he's been with us forever. He's coming more and more out of his shell. He's still daddy's little boy but lately he's been coming to me more and more. I love him so much. I can't imagine my life without him now. As much as he keeps us up at night I would never trade him for anything in the world. ( I might change my mind after only a few hours sleep tonight...lol) I still can't get over how well this guys fits into our lives. I can't wait for everyone to meet him and see just how lucky we are to have him in our lives. I love being his mom. There is nothing more filling then that.

Well I'm off to bed and try to get a few hours in before he wakes us up again. Oh TJ is going to the forbidden city tomorrow but I'm going to stay behind with Reagh. I might sneek in a shopping trip back the market if I can find my way. Wish me luck!

Sick little boy/Great Wall of China

2012-01-16T22:37:00.000-04:00

Sorry that this post is coming to you guys so late. We had a very long night last night.

Now yesterday we went to see the great wall. WOW, what a sight! We couldn't take a stroller as it was mainly all steps. Reagh and I stayed behind and just walked around the base. I helped Reagh take a few of the steps so he can officially say he's a man for climbing the wall. The weather was cold, but there was no real wind so it was a great day there. I met a few of the USA families at the base that adopted their children as well. There was another group from Europe that was there as well and they all seemed to tower in height. I was so hoping to see TJ stand by them to see what the difference would be. Though when TJ got down from his hike he told me that there were a few people asking to take his picture due to his height...lol

We also went to the jade museum where we found out there are so many different types of jade. They has so many colors but my favorite was the purple. I got a charm for my necklace that can be passed down in our family as the value only goes up with Jade. I also got Reagh a charm for when he's older of his zodiac sign in Chinese....he's the tiger! The sales lady said that most fathers like the tiger or the dragon year to have son's as it's the most powerful and one of honor. She also told me that tiger babies are stubborn just as Reagh had enough of the shopping...lol

After that we went for lunch above the porcelain market. They do everything there by hand right in front of you. It was amazing to see. We got a few trinkets to take back home. Though the lunch that was served upstairs was so good. I could have chowed down on that for the rest of the trip. While were were there we ran into Reagh's friend from his orphanage and they waved at each other. I wish that I had our camera on me at the time. We have their email so we hope to keep in touch with pictures for the boys to see as they get older.

As we drove back to the hotel we got to see the birds nest and the cube, but we were all so tired that no one wanted to stop so we just did the old drive by. The babies all seemed to do very well on this trip, even Reagh was making the moves on a older little girl behind him. If he's so into the girls now, what is he going to be like when he's 16????? I'm going to have to beat them all off...lol

After that we stopped in to see the family that is from NS to see how they were doing. It was so nice to just relax and hang out. I think it was one of our better nights. Reagh was loving the kids to play with. We diffidently need to get him into some play groups when we get home. He's full of energy that needs to be burned off for sure!

Now we didnt' get much sleep due to Reagh's chest cold. He ended up waking up every hour on the hour....very upset. We ran on fumes last night for sure. I took my turn at getting up and was so tired that I fell twice trying to get to his crib. My poor little legs were like jello. I woke up TJ in a panic that something happened to me. As I popped up and told him I'm Ok...lol ( a youtube moment for sure) So we didn't go to the tour today due to lack of sleep. After breakfast I let TJ have few hours to himself to get caught up on sleep while I took Reagh to the local market to find an outfit for him. After lunch we put Reagh down so I could have a nap for a few hours. WOW did I need it. We went for supper tonight at a local restaurant...it was ok but not my favorite so far. Our guide asked us if we wanted to try Dog and I nearly gagged myself when she asked. All I could think about is my poor little fur babies back home. The whole group decided against it...lol

Well Reagh is now bathed and off to bed so I will be off to do the same now. We are off to the silk market tomorrow for something to do. We are getting really bored of the hotel. We miss everyone back home and especially our bed. lol Oh I have attached a few photo's of our day. We also got one shot of a worker that we walk by our hotel every day and have yet to see him awake...lol He has a little jade shop just before the elevators and this is what we see every meal time...lol

Night and good morning,

Kelly

Back in Beijing

2012-01-14T13:32:00.000-04:00

We thought we would be able to get some rest before the flight to Beijing so we decided to just stay at the hotel before our flight left in the afternoon. Reagh had other plans for us for sure....like getting up at 3 am!!!! Yes, you read it right 3 am. I thought TJ and I were going to die...lol He didn't sleep at all that day prior to the flight so it was a very hard day for all of us. We were so tired. He was up so early the day before that we hoped he would sleep in a little later, but no luck at all. He was great at breakfast, as usual all the ladies love his smile. He's an eating machine. We decided to get outside after breakfast to see if that would make him tired and want to take a nap. We really needed one...lol So we went to the local grocery store and it was crazy busy. They are under ground so we felt almost like we were too closed in with the amount of people in side. We made it a quick visit as so many people were wanting to see Reagh and try to talk to us. We then thought we would try to get something to eat but without our guide it was hard to figure out what was in the noodles...we were trying to stay away from tofu food. We heading to KFC as we seen the sign but the people in side was crazy so we went back to MacDonald's instead. Much easier to order and get out. We ate and packed before heading to the airport. The airport in Chongqing was huge and much easier to get around then when we left Beijing to get here. Everyone was starring at us and after an hour is was getting to be much so we ended up heading to the nursery to veg out for a while prior to our flight. Thinking that Reagh might fall asleep as well. That didn't happen either...lol Reagh was great for the first part of the plane ride as there was another little boy that kept his attention but after 45 mins he was a mess. He wouldn't sleep or settle for either of us. Poor TJ took the most on that flight as when Reagh get's really upset Tj is the only one to calm him. We tried to get the flight attendant to get us some hot water for his bottle but she was only gong to serve us it when they were done serving the meal. I could have killed her with my eyes. It was plan as day that Reagh was so upset and hungry. Once he got the bottle into him he settled for about 10 mins. We felt so bad for him. Hard to see your little boy cry so hard that his face goes so red. Once we got off the flight and heading to the bus to get a ride back to the terminal we needed to get to he started to settle a little. I find that no one here cares if you have a small child or not they will knock you down to get where they need to go, so we decided to stay on the bus till they all go off. Once we met up with the other families flying in to see all the new babies Reagh was in heaven with all the ladies again....lol The three other families had all girls so he was making his move on them...lol Playing the shy at first then hitting them with two tooth smile...lol He fell right to sleep on the bus ride to the hotel. The traffic was horrific tonight as the Chinese new year is coming. Everyone is travelling back home. Once we got back to the hotel we waited over an hour to get out luggage. I finally went down to get it....mama bear was not happy. They told me it would be 2 mins then 20 mins goes by and still no luggage. TJ had enough and headed down to take it himself. The hotel had already taken it to deliver to the rooms when he got back. We waited another 20 mins and finally it got here at 11 pm. At this time we were so tired that we went to bed hungry. We both were hoping that Reagh would sleep in tomorrow....lol

Reagh woke up at 4am this morning.....BUT we changed him and gave him a bottle and off to sleep he went. He then woke up at just a little before 7am. I can't tell you how great that was to have that extra few hours sleep...lol I think if we had another 3am session we would have went bonkers...lol It's just with all the travelling and leaving out of a suitcase is getting to all of us. We so want to be home. It's so nice here but nothing is like home especially when you adopt a little one that really needs to stick to his schedule right now. We went off to get breakfast and meet all the other families with their children. They are all so cute! You could eat them all up. I can't tell you how much each one of them is so fitted for each family personality. Reagh made a few new friends....and I think seeing all the kids walking has made him want to get moving. When we went to do our paperwork for our citizenship he was watching 2 boys running around. When I took him in the hall with them to see if he would walk holding my hands he did. He walked so far too, mind you he looks he had to many beers walking but at least he's trying. This was the most he has shown us so far. This is HUGE for us. He has only wanted to be held and hates crawling. So lets hope that he will keep it up once we get back home. We also got our group photo done today and it was hard seeing all the babies crying as one family was 20 mins late coming. Then the rest of the gang when off to the Zoo. We decided that Reagh really needed to get on a schedule again and stayed back. We went out to get more baby supplies and a stroller. TJ's arms are killing him holding this little guy. We got some pizza and heading back to the hotel where we are all resting. We are heading out to the great wall of China tomorrow so I hope to have some pictures for all you. Well I'm off to take a quick cat nap while Reagh is down for the count. We hope all is well back home. We can't wait for all of you to meet this little guys. We are so in love with him!

At the zoo!

2012-01-12T23:14:00.000-04:00

We had a chance to go to the panda zoo today. We had a great time with though Reagh didn’t seem to get much out of it as you can tell by his picture...lol I have included a few photo’s of the animals there and one of a little girl that a local woman offered to us to take back to Canada. I’m thinking she only offered because the little girl was very loud and not paying attention to her mother...lol I have also included one photo of TJ, Reagh and out lovely guide Michael that has been taking us to all our appointments. He’s been teaching us of the history of Chongqing so we can tell Reagh when he gets older.

Reagh was up at 4am this morning and was cranky most of the morning, but over all he’s been a very happy chatty little guy. He’s a daddy’s boy for sure and I must say that I love seeing my boys together. We can’t wait to get back home and on a regular routine for sure. We are just going to take it easy this afternoon. We hope to get out to a local restaurant this evening for supper, but that all depends on the little guys schedule...lol

We miss everyone back home and hope everyone is well. We will be flying back to Beijing tomorrow so I won’t have time to write till we get back in the hotel. I will let you know how Reagh does on the plane, wish us luck!

Kelly

Visit to Reagh's orphanage

2012-01-11T19:44:00.000-04:00

Today we got the chance to visit Reagh’s orphanage. It took about 2 hours to get there so it gave us the chance to see how Reagh would be in a car......let’s just say we need some work before heading to the IWK...lol We got to see Reagh’s room and his crib that he was in for the first year of his life. The babies were all sleeping when we got there but by the noise of Reagh’s home coming a few of the children woke up. TJ feel in love with a little boy.....might just get him convinced to do this all over again...lol We could have taken them all home but were glad to hear that most have been placed with families. We did meet a little girl of the age of 3 that came running into the room calling me ma ma thinking I was her mom. She’s waiting for her parents to come and get here and though we might have been them. She wanted to go with us so badly that she kept taking my hand and wanting to leave. Then nannies had to explain that I was Reagh’s mom and that her mom was coming after the Chinese New Year. She wasn’t impressed but still followed us the whole visit holding my hand. Our guide took us around town so we could see where he was from. I liked this city the best, as it seemed more like a place that TJ I would live. Reagh fell asleep the way home after we stopped at a local hotel to get some hot water. I’m still not use to the toilets here. They aren’t the same as ours back home, but either way they do when needed. We went to the mall connected to the hotel to get a bit at the food court. Everyone was coming over to see Reagh. I happened not to put his winter coat back on as it was warm in the mall but the local woman were upset at him and one told me so...lol Let’s just say that I will never leave this room without his winter coat on. No need of the fashion police coming at us. The weather here is like our fall and everyone is in down filled jackets and wonder why TJ and I are just in tshirts and light jackets. We get many people shaking their heads at us but laughing at the same time. One older man just shook like he was cold looking at me. He had to turn his back to me as he got cold looking at me...lol Reagh is doing very well with us. We love him more each and every day. We are still learning how to prepare to leave the room with going out with him. As first time parents I think we are doing just fine. TJ can’t believe that how well prepared I was with my packing. I think now he realizes how hard it was for me to make sure we weren’t over weight in our luggage with all of it. Tomorrow we are going to the Panda zoo that also has Tigers. We can’t wait! We heard that the one of the mother Panda’s had a baby just last year. We will try to get some pictures up of our trip as well. I hope all is well with everyone back home. We are still reading all the comments and emails. I wish we could write everyone back by with this little guy he takes up most of our time. I have included some pictures of our visit today. I have one of where Reagh was found at the gate, the orphanage, Reagh with his nannies and the little girl that wanted to come home with us.

Officially ours as of today!

2012-01-10T19:44:00.000-04:00

His first night with us was much better than expected. We got back to the hotel after getting him and gave him is bottle and a few rice crackers before he headed to bed. He played in his crib here for about an hour then drifted off to sleep. We ended up falling asleep our selves. We woke up just before midnight as Reagh was stirring a little but he just fell back to sleep on his own. TJ and I were wide awake but forced ourselves to try to get more sleep as it would be a day of paper work and running around. When Reagh work up this morning he wasn’t scared that we were still with him. We had him up and changed and playing on the bed for a bit before heading down for breakfast. He has an appetite for sure. He had 2 boiled eggs, a bowl of Conge, fruit and his bottle for breakfast.....lol We’ll fatten him up in no time. He’s soooo light and small for his age. He has a hard time sitting up for long and his crawling isn’t much. He does have some strong legs and we believe he’ll be walking before he can crawl. His stomach muscles are a little weak so we have to get him to the gym soon....lol I think once we are home he’ll be walking in no time. We met another family from Australia that adopted a little girl the same age as Reagh. She’s so big compared to him. I say she eats well...lol We are hoping to go to supper with them this week if our schedules will allow it. Well I must be off to go do our formal adoption process, where is officially ours for good! We’ll take a few pictures and once we get back I’ll try to post a picture. I’m getting all your comments and we are thankful that we have so many people supporting us along this journey. I wish that I would write back to everyone that has commented and emailed but like I said the internet is expensive and we want to have money to eat...lol So please keep writing we do read them every night. Oh can someone tell my mom to check her email. I was able to get one in to her last night.

Thanks again for all your support. We will keep posting updates as much as we can.

Kelly

P.S I couldn’t get this sent out before we left so I have added the photo of our family on adoption day! Its official Reagh is ours!!!! We even have a picture to prove it! I also have a few pictures of Reagh’s frist time eating prunes for the first time. You can see how much he likes it...lol We have a photo outside of the building that we had the official adoption done. It’s very foggy/ smog out today. We are going to be going to Reagh orphanage tomorrow with the coordinator of his orphanage. It’s going to be a day trip and we hope Reagh will be okay for the long drive but we are looking forward to seeing where our son lived for his first year. I will try to get pictures up tomorrow after our trip.

We have him!

2012-01-09T19:06:00.000-04:00

It's midnight and it's the first time I had a chance to write. It's been a very long day for all three of us. We started the day off by getting up at 4 am to get our flight for 8:50. Our light that should of took us close to 2 hours became over 3 hours do to the winds. It's seemed that the flight was as long as the one it took us to get to China. Once we got here our guide was waiting for us to get us to the hotel and off to Reagh. The traffic is bad here. Not surprising since there are 8 million people in the city. Either way our guide got us back to the hotel and checked in. We then quickly got our passports and were off to get Reagh in just 10 mins. I think we were both in shock over how quickly our lives were about to change. We took one last moment and gave each other a huge hug. I got a little emotional and was chocking back the tears......on came my happy dance. lol We were rushed off to see Reagh at a local govt office building. As soon as I got off the elevator I could hear a baby cry and my heart just melt. I had to stop for a moment as I could no longer keep the tears coming....as I knew just around the corner our son was waiting for us. I looked at TJ and he has a smile from ear to ear. We peeked around the corner and the head nanny had him in his arms. He was laughing and playing with her. I think he was a little confused to why the other boy was so upset. Once we reached him it was just a few mins later they handed Reagh to me for the first time. I can't even tell you how it felt but pure joy. My tears were coming down as Reagh looked at me. He was nervous at first and tried to go back to his Nanny. He was slapping his hands but soon as I kissed his hand he laughed. We then made it a big game and he then didn't want to leave me. He's very light and has a bit of a cold, but other then that he's PERFECT! We had to sign some papers then we took a few pictures and were off to the hotel. He was so good with us the whole evening till he had to let us know he was a bit hungry. After we changed and fed him he as happy and laughing all over again. He's unable to walk yet and his sitting is not the greatest either. He loves loves loves his toys. We had him on the bed for a while with us and he played with them and wanting TJ to get his toy after he would throw it away each time. It was a funny game for him to she his Daddy pick it up each time. His laugh is so cute. I swear he was biologically Tj's son. They have the same laugh....it's so funny. He was so easy to go to bed and was okay of being there playing with is toy looking at us to make sure we were still there. He's fast a sleep right now while TJ can't seem to take his yes off "his boy". I love the look on his face while he watches our son. I think I have fallen deeper in love with this man. My boys are keeper for sure! lol well I'm going to try to get back to sleep we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow to fill out paper work. We are hoping later in the week to go to the orphanage but it seems that it might be took long of a drive. The head Nanny is hoping that we will come so she can show us the facility.

That's all for now. Here are a few pictures that TJ took. He couldn't get the family shot up of us as it was on our video recorder. I'll try to get another one today on our camera to show us as a family. Hope all is well back home.
Kelly

Arriving in Beijing!

2012-01-07T15:21:00.000-04:00

We got to Beijing in one piece. We were very lucky to have gotten some great seats for TJ on the flights here. We got the exit seats each and every time!!!! TJ even let out a huge cheer on the one to last flight to Beijing...lol It's been a very long day of flights and we are very tired. We met everyone in our group and they all seem very nice. We are heading out tonight to Pizza Hut to get some food before crashing for the night. We have a free day tomorrow to exchange money and see the park. We will take it easy tomorrow night as we have to leave at 5am to get our next flight to Chongqing. Since I'm not the morning person we will be going to bed really early...lol We'll check in again tomorrow night to touch base.

Guess he can't wait for Reagh!

2011-12-26T23:07:00.000-04:00

TJ hanging out in Reagh's room. Guess he's finding the wait long...I would have to agree!

New Pictures!I

2011-12-16T00:48:00.000-04:00

I want to thank Janene for getting these to me!

Reagh Celebrating in China!

2011-12-06T11:32:00.001-04:00

Celebrating our Son's Birthday.

2011-12-06T09:32:00.000-04:00

My Baby Boy Turns 1 today...

2011-12-05T00:31:00.002-04:00

I wish that I was in China to celebrate my son's first birthday. I know that I'm leaving in 32 days to go get him and that's exciting for us. It's just that it hit me...we missed so much this past year with him. I know we will have many years a head of us as a family and knowing that fills my heart with joy. It's just that this day is a very special one.... as his mom I wish I could be there to celebrate with him. It's just going to be a hard day. I do want to wish him a very Happy Birthday, and we love you very much.

I did send a care package today for his birthday in hopes they take lots of pictures of him for us. Maybe will get some of them soon.

119 Days later....and it's finally signed!

2011-11-28T23:17:00.000-04:00

We went in today and signed our LOA. It's a load off our backs that it finally came and we are in the clear to travel. Though, is it weird to say that it still feels like a dream? It's been so many years talking about having children that it's hard to believe that Reagh is going to be in our arms in just over a month. We have almost felt like we had an imaginary child for so long that it's hard sometimes to wrap it around your head that he's real. Not to mention that in 38 days we will be leaving here to go and get him. I can't wait!

New Pictures!

2011-11-25T20:07:00.000-04:00

LOA Finally here!

2011-11-25T16:48:00.000-04:00

We finally got the call from the agency to sign our LOA. Hard to believe that it only took 115 days to get here! Either way I feel much better on having paid for our tickets yesterday now knowing that it's finally here. I know that things are going to be fast moving from here on out. I will be glad when the holidays are over so I can get my mind on traveling. It's hard to believe that in 42 days we will be leaving!!!!

Tickets are booked!

2011-11-24T15:42:00.000-04:00

I took the chance today and got our tickets for China. We leave Jan 6th and are back Jan 20th! Can't wait! My tummy has been in knots all day just thinking about it. Hard to believe that in just over a month we will hold our dear son for the first time. Can't wait!!!!!

I Pooh in Blue....makes me laugh every time.

2011-11-24T15:39:00.000-04:00

Not sure what to do.

2011-11-23T22:24:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure what to do. I have been told that I will be on the Jan travel group BUT I haven't received my LOA yet. Is this normal? We got the call to book our tickets today but I held off till I call the province to see about our LOA. I'm a little nervous to buy our tickets until we sign our LOA. Has anyone else been in this situation before????

David's adoption story....

2011-11-22T21:50:00.000-04:00

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed.

2011-11-20T21:22:00.000-04:00

I had gotten a packing list from a few people over the last week and decided to start picking up a few things on it. When I started out this afternoon I was excited and looking forward to it all. Though, to my surprise I found myself feeling overwhelmed standing in the baby section. I'm not sure if any of you first time mom's out there felt like this or not, but it was so bad for me that I just wanted to run out of there. I was trying to figure out what type of diaper rash cream to get. I know that you might be wondering why diaper rash cream would be overwhelming for someone. I just was standing there looking at all the different types and felt that like what the heck am I doing. I couldn't even figure out what type of diaper cream to purchase....is that weird or what? I stood there feeling so lost. Then I started to panic....I have no idea what a 1 year old wants or needs. Just as I was about to just give up and walk away, a girl asked me what to get a 1 month old. Seriously??? I stood there looking at her with a dumb fast and said I have no idea. As she looked at me with a twisted face, all I could do is walk away with my cart and make a fast track to the check out. Once I got to the car I had a little bit of a melt down. If I can't even pick out diaper rash cream....how am I going to be a good mom.

Need some help!

2011-11-17T20:48:00.000-04:00

For all those families that have traveled to get your child, I need some help. I'm wondering what you would say to someone that is going to get their child should take with them. I always find that once you get there you always wish that you took something along with you. If anyone out there has any suggestions please leave a suggestion!

Kelly

Traveling in January!

2011-11-14T19:10:00.000-04:00

I word this evening that we will get our LOA very soon. Just waiting for the call from the Province to go and sign it. I was also told that our travel date is going to be Jan 7-19th!!!!! I can't wait. Now I just need to figure out what the heck will to take with me.

Plus his crib arrived and will be put up this weekend. More pictures to come!!!!

Kell

105 days and waiting....Though His room is almost done!

2011-11-14T10:23:00.003-04:00

Before

After

Once these are dry they will go up on the green wall above his crib when that comes.

100 days and still no LOA BUT I got a picture!

2011-11-09T08:43:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Steff for sending me this picture from China of Reagh. He was sleeping the day they went to visit the orphanage.

Our sleeping Prince!

98 Days still no LOA

2011-11-07T23:04:00.000-04:00

Really? I just like to know when we can go and get our baby boy. Not to much to ask for.

Reagh Turns 11 Months

2011-11-05T23:27:00.001-03:00

Reagh turns 11 Months today and we still haven't gotten any word on when we will be traveling. 96 days and still waiting for our LOA.

Still no LOA

2011-11-01T21:37:00.000-03:00

It's been 92 days and we still haven't gotten our LOA. I would feel more confident about this whole thing once this comes. I got word that it could take up to another 3 weeks before we hear anything. So this means that I will have another three weeks to tell people I don't know anything. I just would love to know the date we are leaving so I can just say that and people will ease up on all the questions...lol I know that they just want this to happen for us. It's just hard knowing nothing.

I'm feeling down and miss our son. I was on such a high with some pictures coming in that I was hoping that we could get some new ones soon. I find that keep me going till we get him. This is sure the hardest part of the wait for sure. I know longer have a faceless child in my dreams or thoughts when thinking of our future as a family. I just want him in our arms.

Kell

Starting Reagh's room....

2011-10-27T18:10:00.000-03:00

LOA

2011-10-27T17:20:00.000-03:00

I got word back from our agency and we won't be getting our LOA for another 2-3 weeks. Then our TA will be another 4-5 weeks after that. There's no Travel group in Dec so lets hope that the one in Jan is early Jan!

85 days,,,,

2011-10-25T22:19:00.000-03:00

85 Days and still no LOA. This has been the hardest wait ever. Now I only wish there was a travel group in Dec so we can have our son for Christmas. I know it's only a few weeks after that we will have him in our arms forever....it's still a few weeks he'll have to wait for his mother and father....that pulls on the heart strings.

79 Days and waiting....

2011-10-18T22:18:00.000-03:00

It's been many years waiting for the day to hear we have a referral and now that it has finally come the wait has gotten harder. I keep looking at Reagh's picture and wonder when am I going to have him in our arms. I just want that day to be now.

Finally It's been Changed!

2011-09-26T23:47:00.001-03:00

We got word from CIC today that our file is now stating we are adopting from China! I feel better about the whole thing now. I guess emailing our MP helped a great deal. I can finally relax a bit about this whole thing.

Now it's just a wait for our LOA and TA!

Changing faces with a Smile

2011-09-19T18:53:00.000-03:00

Still no change

2011-09-19T15:32:00.001-03:00

I don't understand why it takes so long to change over our file from Ethiopia to China. We've been trying to get this switched over for months now. I don't understand why one person says not to worry we have it all cleared up for us in a few weeks....its now months. I don't get it!

I have contacted our MP to see if he could get to the bottom of it and help us out. I hope that this can be done soon.

53 days and waiting for our LOA on top of all of this....can we say stressed!

So Upset

2011-09-12T13:32:00.001-03:00

As some of you know we decided to switch programs and go with the SN program with China. We knew that there could be a few hiccups along the way but never like this. We informed the CIC department of us changing programs and how to change our Citizenship part one file to be with China now. Well to my surprise it still states Ethiopia as the country of adoption. We've been in contact with the government months ago over this. We even followed up with a few phone calls and emails about it waiting for a letter to be sent to us with the new country on it. After a few weeks of no news TJ called them this morning. The file still states Ethiopia as the country of adoption. I'm so pissed off! They gave him the run around again and said it will take another 30 days to get done. Since we didn't keep a log of all the phone calls and the person we talked to we are out of luck. I'm not going to stand around for this to take 30 days. If they did this the first time we wouldn't have to wait another 30 days. I'm so upset right now that I could kick a can to the moon!

My advice to anyone out there that is thinking to do the same....keep a log of every time you call and whom you talked to.

Kelly

Love emails that have photo's of Reagh!

2011-09-06T17:43:00.000-03:00

I was working today feeling a little blue due to the weather until I got a email on my phone. To my surprise I got an update from our agency about Reagh. They gave me an update on his weight and height. It seems he got taller but has lost some weight. He had a fever so they had to shave his hair that he just got in to put in a IV for him. My poor little guy has gone through so much. I started to feel a little sad until I seen these pictures. He's in good spirit and seems to be in good health.

/div>

My Baby Boy!

2011-09-04T19:59:00.000-03:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

New Photo's of Reagh

2011-09-02T09:21:00.000-03:00

I got an email from a lovely lady yesterday that happened to be adopting a child from the same orphanage as Reagh. In this email I got pictures she has of my son. He's the one in a pink shirt. Some of the pictures are not up close of him but it's so nice to see a few of him again. Here he is!!!

Having a rough day....

2011-08-29T17:30:00.000-03:00

It's been a month since we were told we were going to be a family of three. There hasn't been a day go by that I haven't thought of our little boy. I know that in a few short months we will have him in our arms forever but today has been a hard day knowing that he's so far away. I found myself crying off and on all day long. I think that people must have thought I was crazy in Walmart. I went by the baby section and to only find myself surrounded by mom's with babies every where. I felt like I didn't belong there as our son is still in China. Then came the water works. I soon got what I needed and headed out the door. Maybe it's the wait that is getting to me. I do agree that the referral high does wear off and now I just want to be holding my son.

I love you Reagh.

Dealing with comments

2011-08-21T23:36:00.003-03:00

I've done well with people making comments over the years about adopting internationally. I know that adopting isn't for anyone or the fact that our child is from another race. I've taken comments in stride and try to educate people on why we decided that international adoption was the right choice for us. I think when comments are made from people who aren't close to us I'm more prepared for them to have negative feelings over our decision. Most of the comments that are made are comments I'm hearing on a regular bases. It's when you family who are well aware of the all the hurtles it took us to get where we are today still have no clue of the things they say hurt. I know that some might not realize what they are saying hurts, but when do you say the comments are uncalled for? I don't want my child to grow up with feeling that he doesn't really belong because he was adopted or always be referred to the adopted child when being introduced. He will be accepted as a full family member or they won't have an active role in my son's life. I don't think that is much to ask for. Do you?

We got word from CCAA

2011-08-04T09:59:00.000-03:00

It looks like out status changed of our intent to adopt Reagh. Looks like we got conditional approval to adopt him. It will be fully approved one they assess our full Dossier. Things are moving forward! Let keep our fingers crossed that we don't get any speed bumps along the way. I think we had enough of them over the last few year.

My Sagittarius Baby!

2011-08-01T21:53:00.002-03:00

The child of Sagittarius is an adventurer, restless and funny. Sagittarius Baby has a very good sense of humour, like a small clown. Whenever he laughs, everyone is affected by his joy. As he grows he will show his restlessness and charm. He will travel all over the house, then the neighbourhood, and then the entire world. His curiosity and energy are unbounded. He is always asking questions; he wants to know everything and sometimes presses very hard with his endless questions.
He reacts against orders; he only obeys if he thinks it is logical. His inquisitive and reasonable mind is always analysing the orders. To get his cooperation on any subject, parents must appeal to his sense of justice and honesty. If his parents keep him confined all day long or they inhibit his fantasies, he might lose his motivation. He loves to be outside and he loves sports, in which he will probably be fantastic. Friends love him and they are always looking for him, because he is always making people laugh. Though he shows authority and enthusiasm, inside he is not very strong and he needs support for his enterprises. He is ingenuous and people can easily influence him, so his parents should always keep an eye on his friends. His sense of freedom becomes stronger in adolescence and he may leave home early.

At school Sagittarius Baby can be inconstant, because everything depends on his enthusiasm. If he gets bored, he will not be a good student, but if he finds subjects that interest him, he will learn very quickly. His mentality is multifaceted and is fed by his curiosity. The more dynamic his education is, the better. It is extraordinarily easy for him to learn languages, and he is also fond of religion. He is likely to go through changes in his faith and religion while searching for the truth. As he has an adventurous spirit, he is likely to live in another country.

This child does not have a head for finances. Parents must teach him how to deal with money, and to save some, in order to avoid future financial problems. Parents should not be soft on this point. If he spends a week's allowance in one day, he must live the rest of the week penniless. Though this seems rather harsh, it will be very positive for the development of his conscience.

Sagittarius Baby's adventurous spirit is also obvious in matters of the heart. Boys and girls of this sign experience many romances during their adolescence and sometimes more than one at a time. The Sagittarius child is very independent, outgoing and restless. He needs friends for his endless adventures, rather than strong and authoritative parents. He needs to know that his parents have confidence in what he is doing on his own, in order to hit every target he aims at with his bow and arrow.

More Pictures!

2011-07-28T21:31:00.000-03:00

Thank you!

2011-07-27T20:06:00.002-03:00

I just wanted to Thank everyone for the congratulations. It's means the word to us to know that we have so many people out there supporting us. It's been a very bumpy road to get to this point and I can honestly say that Reagh has been worth the wait. I love him so much already. I can't stop looking at his picture by my bed and dream of the future with him. I feel that there's been a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I can't wait to meet our son!

Thank you all for your support!

Kelly

We got a Referral!!!!!!!

2011-07-26T22:27:00.001-03:00

I must say that I will never forget this day. Today I seen our son for the very first time. Yes you heard me right....We have a SON! As we sit here and look at his picture it's hard to believe that he will be in our arms in the next few months. We've waited for this day for so long. His name is going to be Reagh Thomas Keenan. He was born Dec 5/10. So he's almost 8 months old. It's hard to believe as we thought we would never get a referral for a child under the age of one. He was born with a Cleft lip and palate. He's had his lip repaired and will need some more repairs once he gets home. Besides that he's very healthy and very active. We will be running once he gets home. I have pictures but I'm not sure when we are allowed to post them on here. Once I find out that it's okay I will post his pic asap! I still can't believe that he's ours....We love him so much. He's our little Mister Man!

New list coming....

2011-07-22T22:39:00.000-03:00

I heard that there will be a new list coming out on Monday night. I need some positive vibes sent my way!!!!! I'm praying for some boys this time around.

Kell

MyLove.....

2011-07-20T17:59:00.000-03:00

When we decided to adopt from Ethiopia I wanted to do something for the children in the orphanages. I decided to ask family and friends for donation to buy some shoes to take with us on the day we go to adopt our child. Now all of you know that dream of adopting from Ethiopia has taken a turn and had no idea what we were going to do with all those shoes.

Then TJ came home one day from work telling me that one of his staff members were going to be taking a leave from work to work in Haiti to help the people after the devastating Earthquake that had happened. This is what she wrote to us in an email after taking the shoes to much needed orphans.

Hi TJ,

Haiti was a very hard trip. For our two week duration we laughed, cried and created memories with the children of the orphanage. Learning their stories was absolutely heartbreaking; their tiny and frail AIDS-ridden bodies don't stand a chance in this complex world.

But the shoes. The shoes were truly a gift that were not only given to the children but also to me. We waited until our second week to distribute the shoes and I'm glad that we did. The kids were excited beyond excited when they realized what we had for them. The most heartwarming part, though, was a little girl named Mylove.

Mylove is 1.5 years old and lost both her mother and father to AIDS. She was under the care of her uncle when he put her in the care of the orphanage as he could no longer afford her upkeep. Her uncle visits her but his visitations are becoming less and less frequent. Mylove is a very quiet and secluded child who seems scared of a lot of things. While we were at the orphanage she kept to herself and often sat in the corner by herself watching others play. She never smiled, never talked.

When we were giving out the shoes I watched her as her interest was captured. She was curious about what we had and seemed to want to engage. So I called to her as I had done many times on the trip but this time she responded. A smile crept across her face as I slipped a pair of tiny pink shoes on her feet. She stood up from my lap where she was sitting, stomped her feet on the ground, and started to dance.

This child who had not moved from the corner, had not smiled and had not interacted with others started to dance. She danced and danced and danced with the biggest smile you could imagine; at that moment I realized just how amazing this gift was.

You gave a little girl her dancing shoes, you gave her confidence. You gave me a memory I will cherish forever and a reason to continue with this difficult work.

Thanks to you and Kelly for this.

Peace and blessings,
Rhonda.

Nothing new...

2011-07-17T21:16:00.000-03:00

We are more then half way through July and I have nothing to report as of yet. I'm not sure when the next list will be coming out, so until then I guess I will have to try to keep myself busy. Thank heavens I start back to work on Monday after a boring vacation. At least that will keep me busy till the next list.

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T16:45:00.000-03:00

What to do??

2011-06-29T21:34:00.001-03:00

Ok, since we didn't get a referral this month and I'm needing to have to come up with something fun to do to keep my mind off of things. I looking for ideas people!!!!! Can anyone suggests something to do?

No phone call :(

2011-06-28T15:46:00.000-03:00

Well, we didn't make this round it seems. I guess there's always hope to see if any files are put back on the list. As much as I wish that it would be this month.... I'm thinking that we'll have to wait for the next list. Guess I'll have to find something to keep myself busy till then.

Kelly

Today is a good day.

2011-06-28T07:48:00.003-03:00

Will it be a great day? Hopefully we'll know in a few hours :)

New list comes out tonight!!!

2011-06-27T18:04:00.000-03:00

It looks like a new list comes out tonight! Looks like we might have a chance to get a referral in the next 48 hours! My stomach is in knots. I don't know if I will be able to sleep tonight at all. Let it be this List...PLEASE!

New List coming...

2011-06-24T08:04:00.002-03:00

I heard through the grape vine that there will be a new list coming out this coming week. Let keep our fingers crossed for some good news for all of us that are waiting for referrals!

Another week goes by no Referral.

2011-06-19T21:26:00.002-03:00

To keep myself busy this week I've decided to get a few things prepared before the little one gets here. Here are a few things we got this week.

Here are a few things my mom got our little China Bear on her trip to the States. I must say this little one is going to be looking good with all these clothes.

TJ's last father's Day alone...

2011-06-19T11:24:00.000-03:00

I think sometimes we forget how stressful these holidays can be on our husbands. Tj gave me a little reminder yesterday that he wonders if anyone would have given him some kind words today in support. Well he got one this morning and I have to post it so everyone can see. It ment a lot to him.

Hi Kelly and T.J.
For some reason I am thinking about you right at this moment. :) Its 1:00am here and I just wanted to say Happy Fathers Day! I don't want to make you feel sad or bad or anything but some little boy out there is waiting just like you are and it made me so happy to think that this is his last year never having a Father and Mother either. So T.J, Happy Fathers Day because you are one! You have done more waiting, hoping, praying and longing for that little boy than most Fathers ever have to do for their children and you haven't even met him yet. (You too Kelly!)
I sure hope that your referral soon! We are thinking about you often, not usually in the middle of the night when we're sleeping though. :)
Catherine!

I just wanted to say Thank you Catherine! You sure made him smile this morning.

Kelly

Feeling low today...

2011-06-13T22:14:00.001-03:00

I was hoping for a "call" today. I know that I'm jumping the gun to even think that we would have a referral already but a part of me was really hoping the phone would ring today. I know there's an updated list that will come at the end of the month and I pray it will come with a referral for us. I just feel that we have been waiting so long and have gone through so much. At this point weeks feel like years now. Come on phone RING!!!!! Needing all positive vibes to come this way.

We got our LID!!!!

2011-06-09T00:01:00.000-03:00

I got word this evening that our Log in Date (LID) is June 1st. That is one step closer to our son. Now I just want to phone to ring with a referral! I hope that it won't be too much longer.

Still no LID

2011-06-02T21:14:00.000-03:00

I got word today that we still have no LID. I feel a little down about it. I was really hoping that we would have one by now. Lets keep our fingers crossed for next week.

No LID till next week...bummer!

2011-05-24T23:29:00.000-03:00

Since the new shared list came out this week, I was hoping that my LID would be in on time. I talked to our agency and they had called last night for it but seems it won't be here till next week. Looks like I missed out on the shared list this month. Which I had a good feeling we wouldn't get a referral this month....still a bummer. Guess it means we will be hoping for next month. Keeping my fingers crossed!

File has landed!

2011-05-16T17:19:00.000-03:00

I got an update from our province that our file has officially landed in China!!!! It's really starting to feel real. Now lets hope for a quick LID and then we will be officially waiting for a referral!!!! I hope we won't wait long. I can't wait for the day I can wrap my arms around our son for the first time. I just got goose bumps!

A little worried but going to keep positive.

2011-05-11T20:48:00.000-03:00

I've talked to a few people about how long it should take to get a LID (log in date) once my file hits China. It seems that I got a few different answers. Once stated that things are running a little long and hearing that always worries me. After what we had already gone through it's only natural that when hearing that there are delays makes a red flag go up. I'm really hoping that things are going to be okay and we will get one soon after our file reaches China. Not to mention a speedy referral would be AWESOME too...lol

Dossier has left for China!!!!!!!

2011-05-10T20:56:00.000-03:00

I got word today that our province has sent our file to China this morning! I can't wait for it to get there. They didn't give us the tracking number to see how it gets there. I hope that they will send it to me tomorrow. One step closer to our forever family!

I survived Mother's Day!

2011-05-09T21:36:00.000-03:00

When work up on Mother's day I have to admit I had a smile on my face. I was surprised by it but there was a part of me that was happy to be celebrating my last one without a little one. As much as I dread this day each year this was the first time that I was ok. That I knew in my heart that my dream of becoming a mom was just around the corner. That makes me smile each and every time!

I also got a few emails and texted from friends letting me know that they were thinking of me. I can't tell you how much that ment to me. I'm so glad that there are so many that are there to support me through this adventure. I'm lucky to have you guys in my life!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T13:48:00.000-03:00

I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to my Mom. Hope you have a wonderful day.

Needing Help.

2011-05-03T19:28:00.001-03:00

My family want to get a few things for us for our little China Bear. The funny thing is....I have no idea what to even get for him. Hope this doesn't make me a bad parent already. LOL. I just don't know about sizes to even suggest to get or what he will need for the house. For example does a toddler need a high chair? I just think that we need to start on a few of the bigger things so it's not a huge expense later. If anyone one out there could help me out I would be totally greatful! Thanks!

OK....I'm getting Excited!!!!!

2011-05-02T12:48:00.000-03:00

Got word from our agency that our file is ready to be sent back to PEI for it to be sent off to China this week!!!!! Then the offical wait will begin for a referral. I can't believe that it's all coming together for us. Now I just wonder how long of a wait we will have for a referral for our son! Either way I guess I will have to get his room started!

Took this from Ruth Blog.......What adoption might feel like.....

2011-04-27T21:22:00.002-03:00

About a year ago, I read an article by Cynthia Hockman-Chupp, an article that first went to print in the Adoption Parenting publication. Hockman-Chupp is a writer and an adoptive parent, and she wrote the following analogy to help all pre-adoptive parents understand what adoption might feel like from a child's perspective. It haw haunted me since first reading it. Here it is in its entirety.

~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Different Perspective

Imagine for a moment...

You have met the person you’ve dreamed about all your life. He has every quality that you desire in a spouse. You plan for the wedding, enjoying every free moment with your fiancée. You love his touch, his smell, the way he looks into your eyes. For the first time in your life, you understand what is meant by “soul mate,” for this person understands you in a way that no one else does. Your heart beats in rhythm with his. Your emotions are intimately tied to his every joy, his every sorrow.

The wedding comes. It is a happy celebration, but the best part is that you are finally the wife of this wonderful man. You fall asleep that night, exhausted from the day’s events, but relaxed and joyful in the knowledge that you are next to the person who loves you more than anyone in the world...the person who will be with you for the rest of your life.

The next morning you wake up, nestled in your partner’s arms. You open your eyes and immediately look for his face. But it’s not him! You are in the arms of another man. You recoil in horror. Who is this man? Where is your beloved?

You ask questions of the new man, but it quickly becomes apparent that he doesn’t understand you. You search every room in the house, calling and calling for your husband. The new guy follows you around, trying to hug you, pat you on the back...even trying to stroke your arm, acting like everything is okay. But you know that nothing is okay. Your beloved is gone. Where is he? Will he return? When? What has happened to him?

Weeks pass. You cry and cry over the loss of your beloved. Sometimes you ache silently, in shock over what has happened. The new guy tries to comfort you. You appreciate his attempts, but he doesn’t speak your lan- guage-either verbally or emotionally. He doesn’t seem to realize the terrible thing that has happened...that your sweetheart is gone.

You find it difficult to sleep. The new guy tries to comfort you at bed-time with soft words and gentle touches, but you avoid him, preferring to sleep alone, away from him and any intimate words or contact. Months later, you still ache for your beloved, but gradually you are learning to trust this new guy. He’s finally learned that you like your coffee black, not doctored up with cream and sugar. Although you still don’t understand his bedtime songs, you like the lilt of his voice and take some comfort in it.

More time passes. One morning, you wake up to find a full suitcase sitting next to the front door. You try to ask him about it, but he just takes you by the hand and leads you to the car. You drive and drive and drive. Nothing is familiar. Where are you? Where is he taking you? You pull up to a large building. He leads you to an elevator and up to a room filled with people. Many are crying. Some are ecstatic with joy. You are confused. And worried.

The man leads you over to the corner. Another man opens his arms and sweeps you up in an embrace. He rubs your back and kisses your cheeks, obviously thrilled to see you. You are anything but thrilled to see him. Who in the world is he? Where is your beloved? You reach for the man who brought you, but he just smiles (although he seems to be tearing up, which concerns you), pats you on the back, and puts your hand in the hands of the new guy. The new guy picks up your suitcase and leads you to the door. The familiar face starts openly crying, waving and waving as the elevator doors close on you and the new guy.

The new guy drives you to an airport and you follow him, not knowing what else to do. Sometimes you cry, but then the new guy tries to make you smile, so you grin back, wanting to “get along.” You board a plane. The flight is long. You sleep a lot, wanting to mentally escape from the situation.
Hours later, the plane touches down. The new guy is very excited and leads you into the airport where dozens of people are there to greet you. Light bulbs flash as your photo is taken again and again. The new guy takes you to another guy who hugs you. Who is this one? You smile at him. Then you are taken to another man who pats your back and kisses your cheek. Then yet another fellow gives you a big hug and messes your hair. Finally, some-one (which guy is this?) pulls you into his arms with the biggest hug you’ve ever had. He kisses you all over your cheeks and croons to you in some language you’ve never heard before.

He leads you to a car and drives you to another location. Everything here looks different. The climate is not what you’re used to. The smells are strange. Nothing tastes familiar, except for the black coffee. You wonder if someone told him that you like your coffee black. You find it nearly impossible to sleep. Sometimes you lie in bed for hours, staring into the blackness, furious with your husband for leaving you, yet aching from the loss. The new guy checks on you. He seems concerned and tries to comfort you with soft words and a mug of warm milk. You turn away, pretending to go to asleep.

People come to the house. You can feel the anxiety start to bubble over as you look into the faces of all the new people. You tightly grasp the new guy’s hand. He pulls you closer. People smile and nudge one other, marveling at how quickly you’ve fallen in love. Strangers reach for you, wanting to be a part of the happiness. Each time a man hugs you, you wonder if he will be the one to take you away. Just in case, you keep your suitcase packed and ready. Although the man at this house is nice and you’re hanging on for dear life, you’ve learned from experience that men come and go, so you just wait in expectation for the next one to come along.

Each morning, the new guy hands you a cup of coffee and looks at you expectantly. A couple of times the pain and anger for your husband is so great that you lash out, sending hot coffee across the room, causing the new guy to yelp in pain. He just looks at you, bewildered. But most of the time you calmly take the cup. You give him a smile. And wait. And wait. And wait.

How would each of us handle all these changes? How would this impact us for the rest of our lives?

©2006-8 Cynthia Hockman-Chupp. Cynthia is an adoptive parent, teacher, and writer who has learned the most about parenting from her children. She operates a website with Heidi Louella, another adoptive parent and teacher, called www.a4everfamily.org with great information for families that are dealing with the challenges of attachment in young children. Her analogy is courtesy of Dr. Kali Miller, an attachment therapist.
This article was originally published in Adoption Parenting: Creating a Toolbox, Building Connections published by EMK Press. This 520 page parenting book is a tapestry of contributions from over 100 adoptive parents, adoption experts, birth parents, and parents who have become experts to parent the children who have come to them. It is available from EMK Press, 16 Mt. Bethel Road, #216, Warren, NJ 07059 732-469-7544 • 732-469-7861 fax • www.emkpress.com

Starting to set in.....

2011-04-27T09:53:00.000-03:00

My hubby has been playing with the blog. I hope that you guys like it. He felt that we needed a bust to get into the celebration of what is about to come into our lives! It's hard to believe that in a few short months we will have a picture of our son! Not to mention that we only have a few months to get prepared for this little one coming into our lives. I'm excited and scared all at the same time. I'm finally going to be a mom!

Adopting a boy!

2011-04-25T22:00:00.001-03:00

Looking forward to Change.....

2011-04-22T22:57:00.005-03:00

As I woke up this beautiful day.....I looked at the sun shining in the window of Reagh's room. At that moment I had such joy in my heart that in just a few months he'll be here waking up each morning. I can't explain how peaceful it was sitting there. While in that moment I felt like everything was going to be ok. It was almost like a huge weigh was lifted off my shoulders. As I sat on his bed letting the sun hit my face all I could do is smile. I can't wait for the day of seeing him here each and every day. How life is going to change....how I'm looking forward to it.

Update

2011-04-19T20:04:00.002-03:00

Our dossier is in the authentication process. Best guess at the moment is that it will come out of the embassy right after Easter; back to the province by end-next week and then on to China. It's getting closer!!!!! I'm getting excited. Let's hope that things keep moving smoothly.

Imagine Adoption Charges

2011-04-12T10:53:00.001-03:00

Imagine Adoption charges a relief: family

Former general manager Rick Hayhow and founder Susan Hayhow were arrested Thursday. Waterloo Police and the RCMP have charged them with breach of trust, six counts of fraud over $5,000, and three counts of fraud under $5,000. Each is facing one additional charge of fraud over $5,000.

The charges relate to around $420,000 of funds that allegedly were misused for personal vacations, clothing and renovations to the couple's Cambridge, Ont. home.

The Ontario-based international adoption company went bankrupt in 2009, leaving the adoption process of at least 350 families across Canada in limbo. It was restructured with the help of donations from prospective adopters, including at least seven families from P.E.I.

Tammy MacKinnon, spokeswoman for the P.E.I. Adoption Coalition, told CBC News Monday the charges were a long time in coming, but families are relieved people are being held accountable for what happened.

'It doesn't help my family'
Brenton Dickieson and his wife have been trying to adopt a child from Ethiopia through Imagine Adoption. "It was obvious to all of us who were involved that there was severe mismanagement and probably crimes involved. I was pleased that there are charges that resulted," he said.

"Sometimes these things don't always come true the way that you would expect them to and having them face penalties for that is good, but it doesn't help my family. And it doesn't help people who have dreams of adopting internationally."

Dickieson said it's sad that this case has caused so much hurt to hundreds of families across Canada and has damaged international adoptions. He still hopes for an Ethiopian adoption to come through.

There were eight families on P.E.I. trying to arrange adoptions through Imagine at the time of the bankruptcy. Two have had matches arranged through the restructured company. They are the legal guardians of children from Ethiopia, and are waiting to hear when they can bring their children to Canada. Four are still waiting, and two have moved on to work with other agencies.

The Hayhows have been released from custody. They are due to appear in court again May 26.

Starting to decorate.

2011-03-24T14:44:00.003-03:00

Paper Work leaving PEI!!!!!

2011-03-07T23:47:00.002-04:00

I got word that our paper work will be leaving PEI tomorrow and heading to our agency! I can't believe how smooth it has gone so far. Knock on wood! I'm really hoping that it will reach China by April. If I could travel before Christmas of this year it will make so happy. Hard to believe that it's not even spring and I'm excited for next Christmas. Is there something wrong with me...lol It seems like I've been blogging forever to finally see there could be an ending....well lets just say that it's an amazing feeling.

Paperwork is Done!

2011-03-03T13:00:00.004-04:00

Just and updated for everyone...our paperwork is done and given to the province. I hope it gets to China by April!!!!!

Free Hugs Campaign - Official Page (music by Sick Puppies.net )

2011-02-15T21:13:00.000-04:00

Love is forever!

2011-02-14T16:04:00.001-04:00

Our news is.....

2011-01-25T15:29:00.004-04:00

I first want to say thank you to everyone who has shown support over the last few years. It's been a long journey for us to have a family of our own. It's been a long road trying to adopt from Ethiopia and as much as we love the idea of adopting from there we have decided to move on. This might not be what some of you have expected and I'm sorry if I have led you to believe that we might have a referral. We just feel that with all the changes that have been coming up that we need to look into other options for us to be a family. It wasn't an easy decision and not one was made very lightly. We do feel at this time it's the best choice for us. I hope that you all understand and support our decision.

With all that being said, we have also decided to move on to the Child Waiting Program with China. It feels we have gone full circle with this whole process. We are going to be requesting a boy under the age of 2. We are very happy and excited and are looking forward to a future with our son. I hope that all of you will understand and still be here for support during our journey.

Hope to have news tomorrow!

2011-01-24T21:52:00.001-04:00

Check back in tomorrow! I hope to have some news to share.

Good things are coming..

2011-01-21T21:01:00.002-04:00

Stay tuned....

Another one bites the dust......

2011-01-08T00:00:00.002-04:00

Feeling sad.

2010-12-16T19:50:00.005-04:00

I wish that I could feel excited and happy this time of year. I use to love decorating my house and shopping for those special little somethings for family and friends. I loved the smell of pine all through the house.

Now, I'm just sad. I hate feeling this way. I want the joy to be back in my life. I miss the excitement that we had when we started this whole process. All I want to do is stay in bed and wait for the holidays to be over.

These people need a Christmas Miracle....Can you find it in your heart to donate?

2010-12-10T17:27:00.007-04:00

My husband came home and told me to watch this

My husband donated $10 dollars to Narayanan Krishnan foundation to feed the people. With just that $10 helped feed 40 people. Imagine...40 people with full bellies with just $10. I've decided to donate another $10 to help the cause. I challenge those who read my blog to do the same.

This is the season of giving and showing love....show some for those who really need it this year.

Donations can be made to this website.

www.akshayausa.org/

Kelly

Reminder....

2010-12-10T10:35:00.003-04:00

A very powerful video that has moved me deeply. It's a nice reminder of those who have much less then us this time of year.

Ethiopian Orphans from Simon Scionka on Vimeo.

Will this ever happen???

2010-12-10T01:34:00.002-04:00

I'm starting to think that there is someone higher up there that is trying to give me a sign that we should stop this whole process. I'm so tired of waiting to be a mom. I just want it to happen already. Is that too much to ask????? Are you listening up there????

Another month goes by....

2010-12-07T23:29:00.002-04:00

News, but not a referral.

2010-12-06T22:39:00.001-04:00

I think I should have made myself a little more clear what my news might have been about. As much as I would love to be sharing to everyone about a referral....it's just not that kind of news I'm excited about. Sorry!

I'm excited that one of my friends has gotten engaged and I'm heading to Montreal for the wedding. I got my time off with work and I'm planning on having a great trip with friends to celebrate one of my best friends. I can't wait for May to come around!!!!

I will keep you all posted on a any referral news!

No News Yet!

2010-12-06T16:06:00.004-04:00

Looks like I will have to wait a while longer for my news to share. Once I get my confirmation I will let everyone know. I'm really hoping for some good news this holiday season!

Hoping for good news tomorrow!

2010-12-06T00:05:00.001-04:00

I can't say to much right now....but I will let you know as soon as I can. I'm in need of something positive for once.

People I encounter daily...

2010-11-30T19:18:00.001-04:00

Beware of the Doghouse

2010-11-30T14:52:00.000-04:00

Moms of multiples are freaks of nature

2010-11-29T07:51:00.001-04:00

It's funny how strangers you meet can ask you such questions.

Funny how in a moment your emotions change.....

2010-11-28T22:39:00.003-04:00

Today I woke up feeling that today was going to be a good day. I had the chance to hang out with my friends, go to the movies and even have supper with my wonderful husband. It was a good day. Then all of the sudden a Hallmark commercial changes everything. Funny how they can make you cry. Then I have to laugh at myself because I'm sitting here crying over a commercial. It didn't help that it was about Christmas and coming together with your children. Don't I wish. It's another year with just the two of us. How I look inside the spare room that is already set up for a little one to join our family and wonder when will I ever open that door to see our child sleeping in the bed. I find myself going in and rearranging the toys to find some sort of closeness to our child. Sometimes I think that I should put them all away till we get a referral, but a part of me needs them there to feel like I have some sort of connection with them. Some of you might find that strange...since it's more then likely that our child isn't even born yet. I bet those of you who are adopting know what I how I'm feeling. Sometimes I wish there was a monthly support group just so that I can feel normal. So you don't have to hide how you feel from everyone because they just don't get it. How I don't have to feel wrong for wanting a family now not later. It seems no matter how you try to explain how you feel to your closes friends they just don't "really" get it how you feel during this journey to your child. How you are excited that you are adopting but find the waiting sometimes hard to handle. I just have to remind myself that the it will be worth it all in the end.....I know there will be a day that I will look in that room and see our child fast a sleep.

Had to share this.

2010-11-28T17:50:00.000-04:00

Ethiopian Orphans from Simon Scionka on Vimeo.

Can't sleep

2010-11-26T15:35:00.002-04:00

For the last few weeks I've had a lot on my mind, which has made it hard to fall asleep at night. I know that I just have to let my mind relax but it's hard. Anyone out there know of any secrets of how to get to sleep during a restful time??? Any suggestions would help. I really need to have a full eight hours sleep with no interruptions.

Trying to get through this time of year.

2010-11-24T23:27:00.001-04:00

It hard to believe that Christmas is coming on us again......and I'm still waiting. I just want to share this time of year with a family of our own. I have to keep putting a face on when meeting with family to just get through it all. How much I loved this time of year growing up....to only dread it now. I would love to just go away this time of year till it's all over. Is that too much to ask?