tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59791152558120782072024-03-08T09:06:49.499-06:00Living In A Rainbow World"Once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows what we know, and holds us responsible to act." Prov. 24:12Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-41377144633226583172014-12-19T00:41:00.001-06:002014-12-19T00:41:56.173-06:00Sibling SweetnessIt has been such a treat to have all 6 of the kids together for an extended period of time.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/670.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_670.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />It's funny.<br /><br />The kids range in age from twenty all the way down to five years old.<br /><br />You might think that they wouldn't find much in common.<br /><br />But, it's quite the opposite.<br /><br />We have enjoyed attending Christmas parties together.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/671.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_671.jpg' border='0' width='190' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Watching holiday shows in the evenings.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/672.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_672.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And, we have more fun times planned before Abby heads south right after Christmas.<br /><br /><br />So thankful for days like this!<br /><br />We are blessed indeed!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/673.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_673.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/674.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_674.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/675.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_675.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/676.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_676.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/12/18/677.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/12/18/s_677.jpg' border='0' width='2048' height='2048' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-47044141381690210582014-12-18T16:17:00.000-06:002014-12-18T16:17:35.426-06:00What would you do?I promise that this is not a gloom and doom post. <br />
<br />
But, what would you do if you knew that you only had 5 years left to live?<br />
<br />
What about only one year?<br />
<br />
One month?<br />
<br />
<br />
No, I have not received any bad news about the future recently.<br />
<br />
But, this thought will not leave my mind these days.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Would you be living your life differently?<br />
<br />
Would you stay at your current occupation?<br />
<br />
Would you travel more?<br />
<br />
Or, maybe less?<br />
<br />
<br />
What WOULD you do?<br />
<br />
<br />
What is your dream?<br />
<br />
Your God-sized dream that He has planted in your heart?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What is holding you back?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnuNnvabmZA/VJNSNWOvpAI/AAAAAAAABoE/FaS8PNlPYiw/s1600/cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnuNnvabmZA/VJNSNWOvpAI/AAAAAAAABoE/FaS8PNlPYiw/s1600/cross.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is my anthem<br />
My life for your fame<br />
My every move bring<br />
Glory to your name<br />
<br />
I will follow you<br />
<br />
The cross before me<br />
The world behind me<br />
I will follow<br />
I will follow<br />
<br />
No turning back<br />
No turning back<br />
Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-59024327072022321452014-11-15T13:41:00.001-06:002014-11-15T13:41:30.676-06:00Busy SaturdayToday was a great day!<br /><br />We, along with 6 others, addressed and assembled all of the sponsor's Christmas packages.<br /><br />It takes many sponsors to keep an incredible organization like the Foster Home running on a daily basis.<br /><br />They are wonderful about the personal connection between sponsor and sponsor child.<br /><br />Each package had a letter, a beautiful calendar and a piece of art from their sponsor child.<br /><br />With so many packages, this process took most of the day with only a couple of breaks.<br /><br />One of those breaks was when we ventured into the village on a mission to finally try a donkey sandwich.<br /><br />Unfortunately, the stand was closed. But, the real adventure was in getting there.<br /><br />Not only did we take another ride in the back of a cart, but we had a Texan driving it!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/11/15/317.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/11/15/s_317.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/11/15/318.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/11/15/s_318.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Don't worry! We were fine!<br /><br />Although, we did turn a few heads. :)<br /><br /><br /><br />After finishing the sponsor packages, we headed over to a long-term volunteer's apartment for dinner.<br /><br />You know, your typical Chinese meal of Chicken, broccoli and mashed potatoes and gravy.<br /><br />She wanted to show us that, yes, you can still have foods from home that you are familiar with even if you are half a world away.<br /><br />And, it was quite delicious!<br /><br />Tomorrow, we will travel into the city to attend an international church service and go out for a western lunch.<br /><br />I'm looking forward to the experience.<br /><br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-19380686766316840762014-11-14T06:06:00.001-06:002014-11-14T06:06:05.339-06:00Baby Lovin!Today was another day filled with lots of baby lovin'.<br /><br />I also worked for a while in the office in helping to establish some different goals and timelines for the children with Down syndrome to be used when assessments are done.<br /><br />During our group prayer time, we learned that a new baby would be arriving today.<br /><br />He recently received brain surgery and will stay here to recover.<br /><br />It is possible that he will stay longer after further evaluation.<br /><br />I'm really excited that I will be able to stay with him tomorrow and help assess his needs.<br /><br /><br />It is getting late now and we are exhausted, but here are a few pics from our dinner out this evening.<br /><br />Noodles!<br /><br />Yummy!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/11/14/63.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/11/14/s_63.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/11/14/64.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/11/14/s_64.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/11/14/65.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/11/14/s_65.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-29438402750988504822014-11-12T11:54:00.001-06:002014-11-12T11:54:03.772-06:00Half A World AwayI lie here in my bed at 1:45 am with many thoughts swirling in my head.<div><br></div><div>(Hello, jet lag)</div><div><br></div><div>Heidi and I have been here at the Foster Home since Monday night.</div><div><br></div><div>We have had the opportunity to work with the babies on Tuesday and then the toddlers and preschoolers yesterday.</div><div><br></div><div>These children are precious and so well loved.</div><div><br></div><div>The latter is what I am so thankful for.</div><div><br></div><div>Within our family, we have witnessed the stark difference of a child being raised in an orphanage environment and a child being raised in a loving Foster Home.</div><div><br></div><div>These previous nannies and foreign long-term volunteers are changing lives.</div><div><br></div><div>For that, I am extremely grateful.</div><div><br></div><div>We are not allowed to share pictures off these precious children, but they are a absolutely beautiful!</div><div><br></div><div>I will close with a few pics of me and Heidi for your enjoyment. :)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S5fexHRAqCk/VGOetoTAR2I/AAAAAAAABmU/CrW-JlEVyVQ/s640/blogger-image--2069380678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S5fexHRAqCk/VGOetoTAR2I/AAAAAAAABmU/CrW-JlEVyVQ/s640/blogger-image--2069380678.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O3aIzZCH3W8/VGOeqMSdV4I/AAAAAAAABmE/IBjjS1lNt7Y/s640/blogger-image--1936546854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O3aIzZCH3W8/VGOeqMSdV4I/AAAAAAAABmE/IBjjS1lNt7Y/s640/blogger-image--1936546854.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LA75Q-rY1YQ/VGOenSVBaOI/AAAAAAAABl8/nJHgv8hw430/s640/blogger-image--501675513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LA75Q-rY1YQ/VGOenSVBaOI/AAAAAAAABl8/nJHgv8hw430/s640/blogger-image--501675513.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-M1esWcpxUn4/VGOeru70EzI/AAAAAAAABmM/520_Es1R_g4/s640/blogger-image--1621272856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-M1esWcpxUn4/VGOeru70EzI/AAAAAAAABmM/520_Es1R_g4/s640/blogger-image--1621272856.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-16714143118953072462014-10-20T14:42:00.001-05:002014-10-21T09:38:14.452-05:00Without Borders<span style="font-size: large;">This past year has been full of many ups and downs, to say the least.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Exactly one year ago, we met our precious Emma Claire face to face.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CJdDRu_xhM/VEVVIz4I7HI/AAAAAAAABkM/T3wZFpfAd1o/s1600/IMG_0517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CJdDRu_xhM/VEVVIz4I7HI/AAAAAAAABkM/T3wZFpfAd1o/s1600/IMG_0517.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just moments after meeting Emma Claire for the 1st time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7_VgRBE38M/VEVVVcKUxII/AAAAAAAABkU/gtcF71yPeEY/s1600/IMG_0513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7_VgRBE38M/VEVVVcKUxII/AAAAAAAABkU/gtcF71yPeEY/s1600/IMG_0513.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma Claire was not a fan of transportation in China.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBJ189wzypU/VEVVVn02qEI/AAAAAAAABkY/EPRGK0kMA2I/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBJ189wzypU/VEVVVn02qEI/AAAAAAAABkY/EPRGK0kMA2I/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sweet picture shows EC's personality! Just the day after Gotcha Day!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Having Emma Claire, our little caboose, join our family was definitely the highlight of our year!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, along with extreme joy, this past year has brought about extreme loss and sadness.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Almost 3 months ago, we lost my dad.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We are still learning how to adjust to our new normal.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">His loss is real and felt daily.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, once again, we have been reminded that each day is a gift and to treat it as such.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We, as Christians, are called to live out our faith.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Living out our faith looks different for different folks.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thank goodness!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know I certainly wouldn't be called to live out my faith by singing a solo in the church choir. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Whew! (I know you are all relieved!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, I do know that God has planted a desire to work with children down in the very depths of my heart.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love children! (I guess that is a good thing, since we have 6 kiddos.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have always loved children!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was the girl who was always playing with baby dolls and "teaching school".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As soon as I old enough, I got a job working in my church's daycare center.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I loved it!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Actually, there is not a single job that I have held that has not involved caring for children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">God has shaped this calling over the years.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Beginning about 12 years ago, He opened my eyes to children with special needs.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wow! Am I forever grateful for the time I have spent working and volunteering with organizations and churches that serve children with special needs and their families.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is through this very experience, that our family was equipped to pursue three special needs adoptions.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of those three very special adoptions, God has taught our family many lessons and opened our eyes once again to His heart and His desire for these precious children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Back in 2008, our entire family (at the time) was blessed to all travel to China for Maylee's adoption.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We were excited, but had no idea what God had in store.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We knew that God had called us to adopt this precious little 23 month old girl, who happened to have spina bifida.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What we did not know was how our lives would drastically change as a result of our YES to adoption.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you know, once your eyes SEE things, you never forget.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You never forget...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dozens of toddlers looking up at you with no twinkle in their eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You never forget...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The solemn look and no emotion on your new daughter's perfect porcelain face.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You never forget...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The beds...the many, many beds. with nothing more than a thin blanket on a piece of wood.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You never forget...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How your precious daughter would gorge herself not knowing if more food was coming later.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You also never forget...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">That first beautiful smile.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Or</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The giggle you hear as your children, from near and far, play together on a hotel room floor.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Or</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The first non-prompted hug!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is because of all of these things, all these experiences, the good and the bad, that I choose to live where my trust is WITHOUT BORDERS.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">God has clearly given me a passion of working with children with special needs.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He has also opened my eyes to things I never would have even dreamed about.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am excited that God has allowed an opportunity for me to use some of the skills I have learned in working with children with special needs to serve some very precious children who live in Eastern Asia.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">These precious children are orphans and it is with much delight that I have said YES!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">YES, I will serve for 10 days at a foster home near Beijing in November and volunteer to help out in any way that I am needed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am also thrilled that my daughter, Heidi, will be joining me on this adventure!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Would you consider joining with us on this journey that God has laid before us?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We welcome your prayers.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers for traveling mercies.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers for my dear, sweet husband.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers for our children, left in his care (delivered dinner will not be turned away) :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers that me and Heidi will follow His lead and serve in a way that brings Glory and shines a light.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can also join in our journey by purchasing one of these awesome t-shirts. This will help offset some of our travel expenses.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVEQ2o6JFcc/VEVhi4cG4rI/AAAAAAAABk8/4PXVm_jQUDc/s1600/withoutborderstshirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVEQ2o6JFcc/VEVhi4cG4rI/AAAAAAAABk8/4PXVm_jQUDc/s1600/withoutborderstshirt.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">send us an email with your size and we will send directions on how to purchase</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We will only be taking orders through this <span style="color: #990000;">Sunday</span><span style="color: #990000;">, October 26th</span>, so that we can have time to get them ordered and shipped out before we leave for our serving/volunteer adventure.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just shoot us an email (phelpsbunch (at) gmail (dot) com) with the size you want and we will send the directions on how to make payment. Or, you can comment on this blog post with your t-shirt size and paypal address.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can also donate through our site, <a href="http://www.youcaring.com/withoutborders">www.youcaring.com/withoutborders</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">These super soft shirts with a super awesome message are only $20 (add $3, if shipping is needed)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We appreciate your support and feel free to share with anyone!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I would also love to hear how you are living WITHOUT BORDERS!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What has God laid on your heart today?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-62039144550379441042014-09-16T22:06:00.001-05:002014-09-16T22:06:54.464-05:00A Little Park TimeThe youngest four enjoyed a quick trip to the park while Heidi was in a meeting this afternoon.<div><br></div><div>We had the place to ourselves.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-P6wasx3q5mE/VBjfocJ0xdI/AAAAAAAABiQ/zilIaIEF_ko/s640/blogger-image--1141667912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-P6wasx3q5mE/VBjfocJ0xdI/AAAAAAAABiQ/zilIaIEF_ko/s640/blogger-image--1141667912.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lOqVJms9U7U/VBjfq3dmJuI/AAAAAAAABig/HADcUE3WcTc/s640/blogger-image--1096039758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lOqVJms9U7U/VBjfq3dmJuI/AAAAAAAABig/HADcUE3WcTc/s640/blogger-image--1096039758.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>And, we all had a mighty fine time!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-88SvDzpfDYM/VBj6wMTWiXI/AAAAAAAABi4/lb5UVi0cJLM/s640/blogger-image-137907254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-88SvDzpfDYM/VBj6wMTWiXI/AAAAAAAABi4/lb5UVi0cJLM/s640/blogger-image-137907254.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bTOp7_m_hp8/VBjfppjZLQI/AAAAAAAABiY/hwWAwmWMNxM/s640/blogger-image-868272617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bTOp7_m_hp8/VBjfppjZLQI/AAAAAAAABiY/hwWAwmWMNxM/s640/blogger-image-868272617.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-4r6539FIvC0/VBj6xus2UqI/AAAAAAAABjA/6IaifejyQMM/s640/blogger-image-2142229783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-4r6539FIvC0/VBj6xus2UqI/AAAAAAAABjA/6IaifejyQMM/s640/blogger-image-2142229783.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bo_eoPV528o/VBj6uorcRTI/AAAAAAAABiw/gKNu_soG5UU/s640/blogger-image-894499293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bo_eoPV528o/VBj6uorcRTI/AAAAAAAABiw/gKNu_soG5UU/s640/blogger-image-894499293.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZQEYoqCmmfE/VBj6zF8pE8I/AAAAAAAABjI/uy8FGXWm4Kk/s640/blogger-image--1102559398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZQEYoqCmmfE/VBj6zF8pE8I/AAAAAAAABjI/uy8FGXWm4Kk/s640/blogger-image--1102559398.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-87313848970799417322014-09-02T22:08:00.001-05:002014-09-03T11:56:57.027-05:00A LegacyIt's been almost a month since my dad passed away.<br>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
I've had so many thoughts swirling in my head since I received the phone call from my mom telling me that my dad had been out watering flowers at my aunt's house. His foot got tangled in the hose and he fell.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
They were on the way to the ER.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
A lot happened from the time that I got that call and when I laid my eyes on my dad lying in the ICU in a deep, deep sleep from which he would never wake due to the Traumatic Brain Injury he had suffered.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
We had one final week.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
7 days.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
For that, I am thankful.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
We each had time to say what was on our hearts and assure him that we would be okay if God was calling him HOME.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
..........................</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
But, there are a few things that I cannot get out of my head and really wanted to put them on paper in hopes that I can take what I have learned and move on.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Speaking of moving on...</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
I've heard this many times how after a loved one passes away that the rest of the world around you just goes back to normal. And, you feel left. Left in grief. Left in sorrow. And yet, you, too, must move on. Just in your own time. Your own way.</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
But, to get to the meaning of this post...</div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
God has taught me many things over the past month.<br>
<br>
I want to highlight just a few things that God has laid on my heart lately.<br>
<br>
<br>
<strong>WORK DILIGENTLY</strong><br>
<br>
Among the many things that my dad was known for, being a hard worker was close to the top of the list.<br>
<br>
Growing up, I remember him working...a lot.<br>
<br>
Sometimes 2-3 jobs at any given time.<br>
<br>
At times, I didn't really understand. <br>
<br>
But, as I grew, I began to understand.<br>
<br>
You see, my dad did not have much growing up.<br>
<br>
Times were hard. <br>
<br>
We heard many stories of how hard it was for him and his many siblings.<br>
<br>
He wanted more opportunities for his own family.<br>
<br>
I imagine he dreamed of that goal as he worked though college, something that was not the norm for his family.<br>
<br>
It was his honor to send both me and my brother to great schools and then on to college.<br>
<br>
<br>
It's funny, my dad would often comment to my friends..."I just don't know how Rebecca does it all. Husband, 6 Kids, Work, Homeschool, Volunteer Things, etc.<br>
<br>
Well, Dad - I learned from the master of hard work and that leads me into my next point.<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<strong>LOVE WHAT YOU DO AND WHY YOU DO IT</strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
It did not matter if it was patrolling the Natchez Trace Parkway, teaching a Jr. High Science Class, directing traffic in a parking lot, taking up tickets at a ballgame...<br>
<br>
You better bet if my dad was doing it, he loved it and gave it his all.<br>
<br>
It didn't matter how small or menial the assignment was, he did it with all of his heart.<br>
<br>
Y'all, if you could see the precise planning papers of various tasks throughout the years....<br>
<br>
His attention to detail was impeccable.<br>
<br>
I'm pretty sure this is where my OCD tendencies were born.<br>
<br>
For example, there is only one right way to fold a towel. <br>
<br>
No exceptions.<br>
<br>
Nope, not even one.<br>
<br>
And, they have to go into the cabinet a certain way as well.<br>
<br>
And, don't even get me started on the dishwasher.<br>
<br>
Let's just say, that's my job at my house and I am completely okay with that. :)<br>
<br>
I digress....<br>
<br>
Back to the point.<br>
<br>
<br>
This verse comes to mind in covering the past two concepts.<br>
<br>
<em>Whatever you do, work at it with all you heart, as working for the Lord, not for man.</em><br>
Colossians 3:23<br>
<br>
You see, I believe when you are in God's will and doing the work He set out for you, whatever that may be, it is with pure joy that you give it your all. After all, it is that very work that He has led you to in the first place. He alone can provide the strength needed to complete the tasks set before you.<br>
<br>
Lastly, and this one seems so cliché.<br>
<br>
<br>
<strong>LIFE IS SHORT.</strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
But, it is.<br>
<br>
My dad was fortunate to live 82 years on this earth doing exactly what he loved every day.<br>
<br>
I know many are not blessed to even make it to their 82nd year.<br>
<br>
But, this simple reflection has conjured up all sorts of emotions for me.<br>
<br>
I am a dreamer.<br>
<br>
Okay, if you could hear my husband's laugh as he would read that statement....<br>
<br>
Well, he says I live in A Rainbow World. You know, all rainbows and unicorns.<br>
<br>
Hence, the name of this blog. :)<br>
<br>
I have big dreams, y'all.<br>
<br>
Why not?<br>
<br>
I have actually personally witnessed several dreams, that seemed insurmountable, actually come to fruition.<br>
<br>
Isn't that what our Heavenly Father wants from us?<br>
<br>
Why do small things that we can tackle on our own?<br>
<br>
Dream Big<br>
<br>
Dream without limitations<br>
<br>
<br>
If God is leading you in a certain direction, follow.<br>
<br>
<br>
Is God calling you to do something that just seems too big?<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
My favorite song right now is Hillsong's<em> Oceans</em>.<br>
<br>
This song is my personal anthem right now...<br>
<br>
<br>
<em>You call me out upon the waters</em><br>
<em>The great unknown where feet may fail</em><br>
<em>And there I find You in the mystery</em><br>
<em>In oceans deep</em><br>
<em>My faith will stand</em><br>
<em></em><br>
<em>And I will call upon Your name</em><br>
<em>And keep my eyes above the waves</em><br>
<em>When oceans rise</em><br>
<em>My soul will rest in Your embrace</em><br>
<em>For I am Yours and You are mine</em><br>
<em></em><br>
<em>Your grace abounds in deepest waters</em><br>
<em>Your sovereign hand</em><br>
<em>Will be my guide</em><br>
<em>Where my feet may fail and fear surrounds me</em><br>
<em>You've never failed and You won't start now</em><br>
<em></em><br>
<em>So I will call upon Your name</em><br>
<em>And keep my eyes above the waves</em><br>
<em>When oceans rise</em><br>
<em>My soul will rest in your embrace</em><br>
<em>For I am Yours and You are mine</em><br>
<em></em><br>
<em>Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders</em><br>
<em>Let me walk upon the waters</em><br>
<em>Wherever you would call me</em><br>
<em>Take me deeper that my feet could ever wander</em><br>
<em>And my faith will be made stronger</em><br>
<em>In the presence of my Savior</em><br>
<em></em><br>
<em>I will call upon Your name</em><br>
<em>Keep my eyes above the waves</em><br>
<em>My soul will rest in Your embrace</em><br>
<em>I am yours and You are mine</em><br>
<br>
<em></em><br>
<br>
May I live so that my trust is without borders.<br>
<br>
Spirit, lead.<br>
<br>
I am Yours and You are mine.<br>
<em></em><br>
<em></em><br>
........................................................<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
Thank you, Dad, for all that you taught me and so many others!<br>
<br>
I have no doubt that you heard the following words when you entered heaven's gates -"Well done, good and faithful servant."<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<strong></strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
</div>
Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-75364839690544049212014-07-28T09:39:00.001-05:002014-07-28T09:39:47.182-05:00Our Super Star<div><br></div>Sam David has the incredible opportunity to play for our state's only wheelchair basketball team.<div><br></div><div>This is only the 2nd year for our team's existence. Therefore, we are very limited with resources.</div><div><br></div><div>Last season, our team only had access to used, borrowed sports chairs to use during practice and games.</div><div><br></div><div>There was not a single one of those sports chairs that came even close to being small enough for our SD.</div><div><br></div><div>So, Sam David just used his personal day chair which came with challenges. But, even flipping over a few times on the court didn't slow our tough guy down.</div><div><br></div><div>But, a few weeks ago, we got a message from Sam David's coach that we might be able to borrow a small sports chair from another team in a neighboring state. </div><div><br></div><div>Wow! What a blessing!</div><div><br></div><div>So, at our practice this past Saturday, Sam David got to try out the borrowed sports chair for the first time.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LKw7I-ohlIU/U9Zgpr86hgI/AAAAAAAABfE/gIzkee45HQA/s640/blogger-image--46726100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LKw7I-ohlIU/U9Zgpr86hgI/AAAAAAAABfE/gIzkee45HQA/s640/blogger-image--46726100.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Y'all, it was a perfect fit!</div><div><br></div><div>I don't think he stopped smiling for the entire practice!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SAfUkIbakvA/U9ZgsbqMfsI/AAAAAAAABfU/HkE8UaPFdEU/s640/blogger-image-256497508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SAfUkIbakvA/U9ZgsbqMfsI/AAAAAAAABfU/HkE8UaPFdEU/s640/blogger-image-256497508.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Once again, we have been blessed beyond measure!</div><div><br></div><div>We cannot wait to cheer on our Sam David and the Wheelcats this upcoming season!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ms9lTreum9w/U9ZgqzbOlHI/AAAAAAAABfM/JC4ZSfbn-9M/s640/blogger-image-1977139976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ms9lTreum9w/U9ZgqzbOlHI/AAAAAAAABfM/JC4ZSfbn-9M/s640/blogger-image-1977139976.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-86222890780411103652014-07-21T11:29:00.001-05:002014-07-21T11:29:58.969-05:00Sometimes... I forgetI know this may sound crazy.<div><br></div><div>But, sometimes I forget that my three youngest kiddos are adopted.</div><div><br></div><div>I forget that they haven't always been a member of our family.</div><div><br></div><div>I even forget that they are Chinese.</div><div><br></div><div>Crazy, huh?</div><div><br></div><div>But, it's true!</div><div><br></div><div>Then, I run across a picture like this.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-975fx4JYn8k/U81AA4mN91I/AAAAAAAABes/2DgokwT1NoQ/s640/blogger-image-782845297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-975fx4JYn8k/U81AA4mN91I/AAAAAAAABes/2DgokwT1NoQ/s640/blogger-image-782845297.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mike and I just returned home from a meeting about readoption.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is something that needs to be done with internationally adopted children so they can obtain a birth certificate from the state you live in. It's not absolutely necessary, but tends to make life easier in the future.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We have already done this for Maylee, but we need to now go through the process for Sam David and Emma Claire.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So, when we got home from the meeting, I immediately went to their adoption file folders to locate the needed documents so that we could get the ball rolling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That's when I ran across that precious picture. It's the youngest picture we have of our Sam David. A real treasure!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My eyes immediately welled up with tears.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I ached for that time he spent without a mommy and daddy to snuggle, to tuck him in at night, to kiss the boo boos.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sigh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The truth is..I forget.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">But, it doesn't take much to bring me to my knees.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh, how thankful we are that God led us to Sam David.</div><br></div><div>I would do anything to have been with him for the first 2.5 years of his life.</div><div><br></div><div>But, that was not God's plan.</div><div><br></div><div>Our Heavenly Father is in the business of making beauty from ashes.</div><div><br></div><div>We serve a Mighty God!</div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-78493347088125238022014-07-19T09:00:00.000-05:002014-07-19T09:17:24.505-05:00Another Milestone ~ Happy Gotcha Day, Sam David!Four years, y'all...<br>
<br>
I cannot believe that it has been four years since our Sam David was placed in our arms.<br>
<br>
What a crazy time it was four years ago.<br>
<br>
Maylee was fighting a terrible bone infection and had spent the entire summer in the hospital.<br>
<br>
In fact, when Mike and I left for China, Maylee was still in the hospital. Talk about stressful!<br>
<br>
But, with Maylee in the care of grandparents, her doting siblings and a wonderful nursing staff at UMC, we boarded a plane to travel to China for our precious boy.<br>
<br>
As with any adoption, there were a lot of unknowns.<br>
<br>
Like Maylee, Sam David has spina bifida. But, unlike Maylee, he had never received any surgery for his spina bifida and he also had uncorrected bilateral clubfoot.<br>
<br>
But, we were prepared. Expect the worst, but hope for the best. That was our motto!<br>
<br>
We finally arrived to our hotel and walked in to see a crib! <br>
<br>
Things were getting real!<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUALUGF5FM8/U8lxvKOwzMI/AAAAAAAABcQ/WNEHRKh1XII/s1600/38281_1497394068534_5046166_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUALUGF5FM8/U8lxvKOwzMI/AAAAAAAABcQ/WNEHRKh1XII/s1600/38281_1497394068534_5046166_n.jpg" height="267" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
Needless to say, we did not sleep much the first night we were there.<br>
<br>
But, nonetheless, the next day finally arrived and we loaded up with the rest of our travel group to meet our new children face to face.<br>
<br>
<br>
We anxiously waited in the Civil Affairs office in Guangzhou with a room full of anxious parents.<br>
<br>
Finally, our time had arrived.<br>
<br>
In comes our precious, tiny Sam David carried in the arms of a Chinese lady.<br>
<br>
He was wearing a short-sleeved Hawaiian shirt and a diaper.<br>
<br>
That was it.<br>
<br>
He was handed over to me...<br>
<br>
No, actually, I had to pry him out of the lady's arms.<br>
<br>
I won't lie.<br>
<br>
It was not pretty.<br>
<br>
He screamed!<br>
<br>
He cried!<br>
<br>
We tried everything... juice..nope....snacks...nope....cuddles...nope<br>
<br>
Time...he just needed time. Time for everything to sink in.<br>
<br>
By the end of the day, he was starting to realize that we might be okay.<br>
<br>
But, still, there was a sense of loss in his eyes.<br>
<br>
His lip....he sucked on his bottom lip for comfort.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVPrcx8uUJI/U8l4Dpm_1oI/AAAAAAAABcg/j_9te2c8VVA/s1600/38804_1502458635145_5902788_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVPrcx8uUJI/U8l4Dpm_1oI/AAAAAAAABcg/j_9te2c8VVA/s1600/38804_1502458635145_5902788_n.jpg" height="400" width="267"></a></div>
<br>
<br>
But, after a few days Sam David started to not only accept our love and affection, but also share some with us in return.<br>
<br>
We had the incredible opportunity to visit the foster home where Sam David had lived most of the first two and a half years of his life.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sWSftZtuHx8/U8l40QAAmaI/AAAAAAAABco/ozM_pwsuEhg/s1600/38804_1502458715147_6250432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sWSftZtuHx8/U8l40QAAmaI/AAAAAAAABco/ozM_pwsuEhg/s1600/38804_1502458715147_6250432_n.jpg" height="267" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIJf_glufsA/U8l5UofYgoI/AAAAAAAABcw/rTWsUfU5Cco/s1600/38804_1502458755148_6504735_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIJf_glufsA/U8l5UofYgoI/AAAAAAAABcw/rTWsUfU5Cco/s1600/38804_1502458755148_6504735_n.jpg" height="214" width="320"></a></div>
<br>
<br>
We will forever be grateful for the House of Grace and the love that Ms. Sandra and the precious nannies had for our boy!<br>
<br>
It was such a blessing to spend time there with the precious kids in their care.<br>
<br>
God planted a seed there in our hearts.<br>
<br>
God has been watering, weeding and cultivating that seed over the past several years and we cannot wait to see what fruit will produce from that visit four years ago.<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
So, so much has happened over the last four years.<br>
<br>
Sam David had a major spinal surgery to detether his spinal cord and then we started the process of serial castings to repair his bilateral clubfoot.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kqxH6dR7LXQ/U8l7R_FIxgI/AAAAAAAABc8/MIPLxIIiZPo/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kqxH6dR7LXQ/U8l7R_FIxgI/AAAAAAAABc8/MIPLxIIiZPo/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" height="400" width="267"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7IxEUeE5oU/U8l7R7QAWPI/AAAAAAAABdA/G66MyEFdrD4/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7IxEUeE5oU/U8l7R7QAWPI/AAAAAAAABdA/G66MyEFdrD4/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" height="267" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_7PVvXO1dU/U8l7SAFlw5I/AAAAAAAABdE/658sVUELPp8/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_7PVvXO1dU/U8l7SAFlw5I/AAAAAAAABdE/658sVUELPp8/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" height="400" width="267"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7C6pjP4bCk/U8l7TSWG2xI/AAAAAAAABdU/RFO-3qyjSdE/s1600/DSC_0544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7C6pjP4bCk/U8l7TSWG2xI/AAAAAAAABdU/RFO-3qyjSdE/s1600/DSC_0544.JPG" height="400" width="267"></a></div>
<br>
<br>
<br>
Our brave boy has come so far and we are so very proud of him!<br>
<br>
<br>
It didn't take long for our sweet boy to start showing his incredible personality!<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjiFPE1vqaM/U8l8C0BmEEI/AAAAAAAABdc/DBjCxTJxJiQ/s1600/DSC_0875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjiFPE1vqaM/U8l8C0BmEEI/AAAAAAAABdc/DBjCxTJxJiQ/s1600/DSC_0875.JPG" height="267" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
Sam David continues to amaze us!<br>
<br>
<br>
Sam David LOVES...<br>
<br>
playing Wheelchair Basketball for the MS Wheelcats<br>
<br>
playing Challenger League baseball<br>
<br>
participating in 5K races with his friends, Mrs. Kim and Ms. Terry<br>
<br>
playing outside with his siblings and neighborhood friends<br>
<br>
building with legos<br>
<br>
his "squishy" pillow<br>
<br>
singing<br>
<br>
ice cream<br>
<br>
his mommy! :)<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
We could not be any more proud of our super special boy!<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
And, now I will leave with some recent pics of our precious boy!<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgY36IMnCM8/U8l_ckhp2YI/AAAAAAAABd4/Oj7FufB6cmQ/s1600/1625631_10202789410230058_365098593_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgY36IMnCM8/U8l_ckhp2YI/AAAAAAAABd4/Oj7FufB6cmQ/s1600/1625631_10202789410230058_365098593_n.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uf03xb9uXvk/U8l_dG-hwgI/AAAAAAAABeA/KLJDDBQ1RuQ/s1600/1662092_10202754884046925_2031890828_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uf03xb9uXvk/U8l_dG-hwgI/AAAAAAAABeA/KLJDDBQ1RuQ/s1600/1662092_10202754884046925_2031890828_n.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5VyjAbhfQ2Q/U8l_biqdueI/AAAAAAAABdo/IN0HlMSejY0/s1600/10155853_10203393418249881_1525757314502647946_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5VyjAbhfQ2Q/U8l_biqdueI/AAAAAAAABdo/IN0HlMSejY0/s1600/10155853_10203393418249881_1525757314502647946_n.jpg" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XcddEefDJ14/U8l_b57mrHI/AAAAAAAABdw/IT_YCz-klfA/s1600/10176043_10203072163498713_5727884260174173882_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XcddEefDJ14/U8l_b57mrHI/AAAAAAAABdw/IT_YCz-klfA/s1600/10176043_10203072163498713_5727884260174173882_n.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMDssU3W5lM/U8l_b__7KmI/AAAAAAAABds/P9hkhIIkMkM/s1600/10253937_10203059527662825_3548583456568716741_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMDssU3W5lM/U8l_b__7KmI/AAAAAAAABds/P9hkhIIkMkM/s1600/10253937_10203059527662825_3548583456568716741_n.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtDmJShPMAo/U8l_cRZeGPI/AAAAAAAABd0/fGxRCwL5fi8/s1600/10269616_10203138667721277_3922794746104619596_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtDmJShPMAo/U8l_cRZeGPI/AAAAAAAABd0/fGxRCwL5fi8/s1600/10269616_10203138667721277_3922794746104619596_n.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nyLEeUykZEI/U8l_corN4kI/AAAAAAAABeM/86kb_FtIqec/s1600/10423665_10203404938417878_8475319611968688517_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nyLEeUykZEI/U8l_corN4kI/AAAAAAAABeM/86kb_FtIqec/s1600/10423665_10203404938417878_8475319611968688517_n.jpg" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
Happy 4th Gotcha Day, Sam David!<br>
<br>
<br>
We love you!<br>
Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-38100409025332295732014-02-04T20:40:00.001-06:002014-02-25T20:24:46.634-06:00Year of the HorseWe all had a great time last weekend as we celebrated Chinese New Year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/04/1358.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/04/s_1358.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/04/1359.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/04/s_1359.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/04/1360.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/04/s_1360.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/04/1361.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/04/s_1361.jpg" height="210" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/04/1362.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/04/s_1362.jpg" height="210" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a></center>
<br />
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneRebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-56264890297938711332014-01-28T15:37:00.001-06:002014-01-28T15:37:26.996-06:00Let it snow!We all enjoyed a real treat today!<br /><br />It is so rare to see any snow in the Deep South.<br /><br />So, when we do, it gets pretty crazy!<br /><br />Schools close, cars slide all over the roads and kids go wild playing in the rare white stuff falling from the sky.<br /><br />Since we homeschool, I had told the kids last night that if the local school district closed today, then we would too.<br /><br />Imagine their delight when they rubbed their sleepy eyes to take a peek out of the window.<br /><br />SNOW!<br /><br />So, snow day it was!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/816.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_816.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/817.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_817.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/818.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_818.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/819.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_819.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/820.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_820.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/821.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_821.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/822.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_822.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/823.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_823.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/824.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_824.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='191' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/825.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_825.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/826.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_826.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/28/827.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/28/s_827.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-13980440098869233872014-01-27T21:10:00.001-06:002014-01-27T21:10:28.109-06:00Go Wheelcats!This past Saturday was incredible!<div><br></div><div>Sam David recently joined our state's only youth wheelchair basketball team.</div><div><br></div><div>His team is composed of boys ages 4-18.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GJ-2AAyJM-M/UucfmRVsfQI/AAAAAAAABV0/4Aw9XSqcux4/s640/blogger-image-9596216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GJ-2AAyJM-M/UucfmRVsfQI/AAAAAAAABV0/4Aw9XSqcux4/s640/blogger-image-9596216.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Watching the two teams work so hard and play with such effort was quite a sight to see!</div><div><br></div><div>The game was a nail biter that kept us on the edge of our seats.</div><div><br></div><div>Our hard working team ended up coming just a bit short, but only after going into double overtime!!!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Hxo_owP3WFA/UucflYU3iQI/AAAAAAAABVs/NfsbyCcmWSc/s640/blogger-image-276171802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Hxo_owP3WFA/UucflYU3iQI/AAAAAAAABVs/NfsbyCcmWSc/s640/blogger-image-276171802.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-efzmnn2TnX0/UucfkIsg1OI/AAAAAAAABVk/79DD5tZX_QE/s640/blogger-image--201930586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-efzmnn2TnX0/UucfkIsg1OI/AAAAAAAABVk/79DD5tZX_QE/s640/blogger-image--201930586.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6Fyb633GOaY/UucfniHwuyI/AAAAAAAABV8/eYXfdKzLR0U/s640/blogger-image-924991984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6Fyb633GOaY/UucfniHwuyI/AAAAAAAABV8/eYXfdKzLR0U/s640/blogger-image-924991984.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Just look at that smile!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7Gikcawh-uU/Uucfom9YhZI/AAAAAAAABWE/f79uf6evfag/s640/blogger-image--1925022812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7Gikcawh-uU/Uucfom9YhZI/AAAAAAAABWE/f79uf6evfag/s640/blogger-image--1925022812.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-51999974666034959982014-01-17T11:11:00.001-06:002014-01-17T11:11:57.788-06:00Left Ya Hangin'I know, I know....<br />
<br />
It has been FOREVER since my last post.<br />
<br />
I am reminded almost daily that I desperately need to update the ole blog.<br />
<br />
Well, you know what they say - Life Happens!<br />
<br />
And, life surely has been happening in the Phelps household!<br />
<br />
But, it's also hard to process everything that is floating around in my head since returning home from China with our precious Emma Claire.<br />
<br />
God is working on me and I am just trying to sit back, relax and listen.<br />
<br />
That is hard.<br />
<br />
I've actually started the same post numerous times and just couldn't really get out what I was trying to say.<br />
<br />
I know that He has burdened my heart for orphans worldwide and what road that leads me down, we shall see...<br />
<br />
But, for now, check out our first official family portrait. Finally Complete!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmWUmzZXmCU/UtljRNZ9_MI/AAAAAAAABU0/P3rpSNSYsVw/s1600/Phelps00005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmWUmzZXmCU/UtljRNZ9_MI/AAAAAAAABU0/P3rpSNSYsVw/s1600/Phelps00005.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
And, of course, here all of the kiddos in their beautiful Chinese Silks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k_f_uDNqqqI/UtljXxsFsAI/AAAAAAAABU8/r7CF4hyEUmE/s1600/Phelps00018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k_f_uDNqqqI/UtljXxsFsAI/AAAAAAAABU8/r7CF4hyEUmE/s1600/Phelps00018.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-87130771740033330452013-11-11T06:58:00.001-06:002013-11-11T07:12:39.043-06:00Home Sweet Home<div><br></div> <div>Well, we made it home just over a week ago and all is going so well.<div><br></div><div>During our time in China, Emma Claire did not like anything involving transportation.</div><div><br></div><div>Cars</div><div><br></div><div>Vans</div><div><br></div><div>Trains</div><div><br></div><div>Airplanes</div><div><br></div><div>This held true as we made the long journey home.</div><div><br></div><div>She started off great.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e6nJRDIG3Uk/UoDURl4YMOI/AAAAAAAABSo/Pm5acp1OHu0/s640/blogger-image--1647002910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e6nJRDIG3Uk/UoDURl4YMOI/AAAAAAAABSo/Pm5acp1OHu0/s640/blogger-image--1647002910.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z16x_v_K1c4/UoDUL3Q1IqI/AAAAAAAABSQ/U47FRrqqPS0/s640/blogger-image--442306255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z16x_v_K1c4/UoDUL3Q1IqI/AAAAAAAABSQ/U47FRrqqPS0/s640/blogger-image--442306255.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>But, as time progressed, she became more and more restless.</div><div><br></div><div>But, thankfully, after almost 24 hours of traveling....we made it safely back to Mississippi!</div><div><br></div><div>We were greeted by many wonderful friends!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QLgBbyla7RE/UoDT1VtU9nI/AAAAAAAABSA/FD7IxpKvWiw/s640/blogger-image--1851695118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QLgBbyla7RE/UoDT1VtU9nI/AAAAAAAABSA/FD7IxpKvWiw/s640/blogger-image--1851695118.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>And, of course, Mike and the other kiddos were there and ready to meet Miss Emma Claire.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0_L4f2IgMd8/UoDUVH0_fyI/AAAAAAAABS4/-Oeh0wzpRKY/s640/blogger-image--243516202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0_L4f2IgMd8/UoDUVH0_fyI/AAAAAAAABS4/-Oeh0wzpRKY/s640/blogger-image--243516202.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xGTOb9WNbaU/UoDTuFa7C4I/AAAAAAAABRg/Aj9JaV31v5o/s640/blogger-image--1539021955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xGTOb9WNbaU/UoDTuFa7C4I/AAAAAAAABRg/Aj9JaV31v5o/s640/blogger-image--1539021955.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EuOUMk_oyM0/UoDUPbhZNgI/AAAAAAAABSg/YzjTojUVyjs/s640/blogger-image-438718347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EuOUMk_oyM0/UoDUPbhZNgI/AAAAAAAABSg/YzjTojUVyjs/s640/blogger-image-438718347.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-cgq3o26MRUc/UoDXxHZdKTI/AAAAAAAABTM/0m0QRqQ80gY/s640/blogger-image--1035836568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-cgq3o26MRUc/UoDXxHZdKTI/AAAAAAAABTM/0m0QRqQ80gY/s640/blogger-image--1035836568.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Two of my best friends in the whole wide world were there to join in the celebration. (Kelly, you were missed! But, I know you were there in spirit.)</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2xG9B9EX1aU/UoDTv9PnZfI/AAAAAAAABRo/MwNTKQwOvhg/s640/blogger-image--1527707531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2xG9B9EX1aU/UoDTv9PnZfI/AAAAAAAABRo/MwNTKQwOvhg/s640/blogger-image--1527707531.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>This past week has been absolutely perfect as we all settle into our new normal.</div><div><br></div><div>I know it sounds cheesy, but it really does seem like Emma Claire has been with us forever.</div><div><br></div><div>She is our missing puzzle piece that we have waited for so long.</div><div><br></div><div>She is comfortable in her new surroundings and absolutely adores each one of her siblings.</div><div><br></div><div>The other kids, even Sam David, have made the transition beautifully without skipping a beat!</div><div><br></div><div>We feel complete.</div><div><br></div><div>And, we all are forever grateful for the honor of being able to claim Emma Claire as ours!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I have been working on a post in regards to our precious time spent at Emma Claire's foster home.</div><div><br></div><div>But, I don't want to rush it as I have so many things to say.</div><div><br></div><div>I will say this...we are forever grateful for the wonderful love and care our Emma Claire received.</div><div><br></div><div>I want to provide just a little glimpse into the miraculous work that these precious servants of God do on a daily basis for so many beautiful children.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Until then, enjoy just a few more pics from the past week...</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Xk3ztWciZ_8/UoDTr5hyt-I/AAAAAAAABRY/I2J_YFP1EjI/s640/blogger-image-1119726020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Xk3ztWciZ_8/UoDTr5hyt-I/AAAAAAAABRY/I2J_YFP1EjI/s640/blogger-image-1119726020.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-auv5VY1piO4/UoDT3VQCpCI/AAAAAAAABSI/tmsVP811Cyw/s640/blogger-image-1212116866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-auv5VY1piO4/UoDT3VQCpCI/AAAAAAAABSI/tmsVP811Cyw/s640/blogger-image-1212116866.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MPjlpQvnrkk/UoDTqIUEyzI/AAAAAAAABRQ/FDZaTfTA0T4/s640/blogger-image-11034041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MPjlpQvnrkk/UoDTqIUEyzI/AAAAAAAABRQ/FDZaTfTA0T4/s640/blogger-image-11034041.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MN3z_42xL94/UoDUNkNtL6I/AAAAAAAABSY/OXxe1NGTnpQ/s640/blogger-image--833975184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MN3z_42xL94/UoDUNkNtL6I/AAAAAAAABSY/OXxe1NGTnpQ/s640/blogger-image--833975184.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cgl8ghyZfNA/UoDTxrwQJKI/AAAAAAAABRw/irGoC2JUiyQ/s640/blogger-image-1330189019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cgl8ghyZfNA/UoDTxrwQJKI/AAAAAAAABRw/irGoC2JUiyQ/s640/blogger-image-1330189019.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HIpGBFXwb-8/UoDUTUzz0CI/AAAAAAAABSw/ftkSjt_LB3U/s640/blogger-image-953034126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HIpGBFXwb-8/UoDUTUzz0CI/AAAAAAAABSw/ftkSjt_LB3U/s640/blogger-image-953034126.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-43vH2pVETHA/UoDTzf7Q6dI/AAAAAAAABR4/Mv_rwT779QE/s640/blogger-image--177492570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-43vH2pVETHA/UoDTzf7Q6dI/AAAAAAAABR4/Mv_rwT779QE/s640/blogger-image--177492570.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Y6pFCcjSxC0/UoDUXBXxZ1I/AAAAAAAABTA/HMmOePwohJU/s640/blogger-image--924154230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Y6pFCcjSxC0/UoDUXBXxZ1I/AAAAAAAABTA/HMmOePwohJU/s640/blogger-image--924154230.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-29818476928595618842013-10-30T00:22:00.001-05:002013-10-30T00:22:10.532-05:00Soaking it all inToday is our last full day in China.<div><br></div><div>It is a free day, for the most part.</div><div><br></div><div>The 3 of us spent the morning walking the streets around our hotel once more.</div><div><br></div><div>We truly love this place. We love the sights. We love the action. We love the people.</div><div><br></div><div>Don't get me wrong, we are definitely ready to have all of our little family together again!</div><div><br></div><div>But, we will certainly miss this place!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZcwpmGmFtfk/UnCXeQzcbMI/AAAAAAAABQ4/d-qbN3ycJrg/s640/blogger-image-1743334552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZcwpmGmFtfk/UnCXeQzcbMI/AAAAAAAABQ4/d-qbN3ycJrg/s640/blogger-image-1743334552.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-56932876599295292572013-10-29T03:16:00.001-05:002013-10-29T03:16:13.902-05:00Consulate AppointmentThis morning we had the very important US Consulate Appointment.<div><br></div><div>This is where all parents take the oath to care for their newly adopted children.</div><div><br></div><div>We also turn in our official paperwork and Emma Claire's Chinese passport in order for it to receive a visa to travel to the USA.</div><div><br></div><div>Since cameras are not allowed, we took a picture in our hotel room just before going to the consulate appointment.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-93DBJQBLAkY/Um9uycGyqsI/AAAAAAAABQo/dNCnyLnbyec/s640/blogger-image-1821911412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-93DBJQBLAkY/Um9uycGyqsI/AAAAAAAABQo/dNCnyLnbyec/s640/blogger-image-1821911412.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire has been in the most wonderful, happy mood all day long!</div><div><br></div><div>She really has settled in quite beautifully so far.</div><div><br></div><div>She regularly calls for mama and Jie Jie (big sister) at appropriate times.</div><div><br></div><div>We are so thankful for her smooth transition and cannot wait for her to officially meet her daddy and other siblings. She already loves talking to them through skype and FaceTime and calls them by name!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We enjoyed luch at Pizza Hut near our hotel.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SRd4GbHyDaM/Um9ugP7MD1I/AAAAAAAABQI/75tP_IagY4w/s640/blogger-image--1156999726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SRd4GbHyDaM/Um9ugP7MD1I/AAAAAAAABQI/75tP_IagY4w/s640/blogger-image--1156999726.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We had boring pepperoni pizza, but did you know that you can order a nice big steak at Pizza Hut in Guangzhou?</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L5EBmkCY_hU/Um9uuvcfmNI/AAAAAAAABQg/CHnxcoB66v0/s640/blogger-image-1461528290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L5EBmkCY_hU/Um9uuvcfmNI/AAAAAAAABQg/CHnxcoB66v0/s640/blogger-image-1461528290.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>After lunch, we ventured over to the island again.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Heidi was in need of some Starbucks. :)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BuPRLbEimiE/Um9ujY0MaFI/AAAAAAAABQQ/ZNI63Oa_gk8/s640/blogger-image-908819148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BuPRLbEimiE/Um9ujY0MaFI/AAAAAAAABQQ/ZNI63Oa_gk8/s640/blogger-image-908819148.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Cheesecake, Tiramasu and Mocha Frappuccinos, what more can you ask for?</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8We-QbK4LPI/Um9upWQZylI/AAAAAAAABQY/-qfq_A3dMZo/s640/blogger-image-825476503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8We-QbK4LPI/Um9upWQZylI/AAAAAAAABQY/-qfq_A3dMZo/s640/blogger-image-825476503.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We are settled back in the hotel room now so Miss Priss can get a nap.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Ta Ta for now....</div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-28660532652471857862013-10-28T05:53:00.001-05:002013-10-28T06:20:12.426-05:00AdventuresHeidi and I promised each other that we would not be trapped in our hotel room all day, every day when we had a free day in China.<div><br></div><div>We wanted to make the most of our time in this wonderful place.</div><div><br></div><div>Take in the sights, the sounds, the smells.... Okay, maybe not so much of the smells!</div><div><br></div><div>Today we had to wait in our hotel room from 1:00-3:30 pm. Our guide would be calling between those times with the result of the TB test for Miss Emma Claire.</div><div><br></div><div>Well Miss Becky, our guide, called at exactly 3:30 with the good news.</div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire passed and we were now clear for our Consulate Appiintment, which will take place in the morning.</div><div><br></div><div>As soon as I hung up the phone, we were off!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CPw_TsQMN6c/Um4_C82heNI/AAAAAAAABPA/pHY9VtT9nXk/s640/blogger-image--1700187073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CPw_TsQMN6c/Um4_C82heNI/AAAAAAAABPA/pHY9VtT9nXk/s640/blogger-image--1700187073.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-POGUBH2MDcY/Um5B7-4YnRI/AAAAAAAABPw/riM7Rd3nw_M/s640/blogger-image-1698943756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-POGUBH2MDcY/Um5B7-4YnRI/AAAAAAAABPw/riM7Rd3nw_M/s640/blogger-image-1698943756.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-f2Ak6DJK3IQ/Um5B0FCNduI/AAAAAAAABPo/-ArKDalITlI/s640/blogger-image-773521647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-f2Ak6DJK3IQ/Um5B0FCNduI/AAAAAAAABPo/-ArKDalITlI/s640/blogger-image-773521647.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EJgLteUKOJ4/Um5CEguHQzI/AAAAAAAABP4/HlvLhU3I09w/s640/blogger-image--677830378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EJgLteUKOJ4/Um5CEguHQzI/AAAAAAAABP4/HlvLhU3I09w/s640/blogger-image--677830378.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Our biggest adventure of the day was going to a Chinese restaurant for dinner.</div><div><br></div><div>No English spoken at all. :)</div><div><br></div><div>But, y'all....we did it!</div><div><br></div><div>All by ourselves!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8BG9NLqZ8nE/Um4_UoOQegI/AAAAAAAABPI/yjySIcNOulM/s640/blogger-image--804533525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8BG9NLqZ8nE/Um4_UoOQegI/AAAAAAAABPI/yjySIcNOulM/s640/blogger-image--804533525.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>And, it was all so good!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-d-cxA-wJPFw/Um5A3ZsYEmI/AAAAAAAABPc/jQdKGDw4udA/s640/blogger-image--169450552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-d-cxA-wJPFw/Um5A3ZsYEmI/AAAAAAAABPc/jQdKGDw4udA/s640/blogger-image--169450552.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>After dinner, we ran by McDonalds and had McFlurries for dessert.</div><div><br></div><div>We felt we deserved the treat!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Probably going to hit the sack early tonight. We meet our guide at 7:30 in the morning and head to the US Consulate to take our oath that we will care for sweet Emma Claire. Well, duh! That's a no-brainer!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I will leave you with one more silly picture.</div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire always takes her shoes off as soon as we get back in the hotel room.</div><div><br></div><div>But, today we looked over and she had this big, cheesy grin on her face.</div><div><br></div><div>She thought that she was so funny!</div><div><br></div><div>And, I have to agree!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fp3dbhGlUVE/Um5AhM7Z1cI/AAAAAAAABPU/-30xyd-SyS8/s640/blogger-image--827185981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fp3dbhGlUVE/Um5AhM7Z1cI/AAAAAAAABPU/-30xyd-SyS8/s640/blogger-image--827185981.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-66780706406303541422013-10-27T03:37:00.001-05:002013-10-27T03:37:25.509-05:00Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PSI773azymM/UmzPi2-Qa_I/AAAAAAAABOI/lrwmXATsvHA/s640/blogger-image--1129544760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PSI773azymM/UmzPi2-Qa_I/AAAAAAAABOI/lrwmXATsvHA/s640/blogger-image--1129544760.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>This morning our guide took us to Six Banyan Temple.<div><br></div><div>It was very beautiful, but made me sad to see so many worshipping other gods.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MCY2QGXwE-I/UmzPBlu-PCI/AAAAAAAABNw/VCPJcVMbS9k/s640/blogger-image-437969839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MCY2QGXwE-I/UmzPBlu-PCI/AAAAAAAABNw/VCPJcVMbS9k/s640/blogger-image-437969839.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LYUMN2NrknU/UmzPurB4K4I/AAAAAAAABOY/7D4V4FiEMQM/s640/blogger-image-974381168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LYUMN2NrknU/UmzPurB4K4I/AAAAAAAABOY/7D4V4FiEMQM/s640/blogger-image-974381168.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>The three of us ventured over to Shamien Island for lunch.</div><div><br></div><div>Lucy's was calling our name. :)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-36LMpaV4pbo/UmzPS7YkDXI/AAAAAAAABOA/REcDLinbFL8/s640/blogger-image-514667251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-36LMpaV4pbo/UmzPS7YkDXI/AAAAAAAABOA/REcDLinbFL8/s640/blogger-image-514667251.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lZlv4nvBvLc/UmzPpVeifbI/AAAAAAAABOQ/TrfK9U_3PWE/s640/blogger-image--1450994805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lZlv4nvBvLc/UmzPpVeifbI/AAAAAAAABOQ/TrfK9U_3PWE/s640/blogger-image--1450994805.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We took a stroll around the island and stopped for a few photo ops along the way.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rwZlOTlL_g8/UmzP0nwLMeI/AAAAAAAABOg/S7xrB4fmevQ/s640/blogger-image-1643934090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rwZlOTlL_g8/UmzP0nwLMeI/AAAAAAAABOg/S7xrB4fmevQ/s640/blogger-image-1643934090.jpg"></a></div><p><br></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fddbGU78aUw/UmzPKGGq52I/AAAAAAAABN4/BzOpkkTLZ6U/s640/blogger-image-291856768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fddbGU78aUw/UmzPKGGq52I/AAAAAAAABN4/BzOpkkTLZ6U/s640/blogger-image-291856768.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p><div>Heidi was thrilled to find a yummy snack at 7-11.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0IqEntgmLso/UmzP_LsRoyI/AAAAAAAABOo/V4yFUmzXZ6A/s640/blogger-image-1516491432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0IqEntgmLso/UmzP_LsRoyI/AAAAAAAABOo/V4yFUmzXZ6A/s640/blogger-image-1516491432.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Sadly, with the decline in Chinese adoption, the island just isn't the sane.</div><div><br></div><div>Only a small handful of shops are open and even one of our favorite restaurants, The Cow and Bridge, has closed.</div><div><br></div><div>But, it is still a very pretty place to walk and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.</div><div><br></div><div>I'll leave you with one more picture of Miss Cutie Patootie. She is so happy and we are forever grateful!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JRG3sE9zYRA/UmzQS6gq-zI/AAAAAAAABOw/CpWMw7_oizE/s640/blogger-image-1705050217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JRG3sE9zYRA/UmzQS6gq-zI/AAAAAAAABOw/CpWMw7_oizE/s640/blogger-image-1705050217.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"></div></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-48361066593567384912013-10-27T03:15:00.001-05:002013-10-27T03:37:30.797-05:00Catching Up...Our days are filled with a few appointments here and there and A LOT of walking!<div><br></div><div>So, usually when we are back in the hotel room I am too tired to spend much time on the blog.</div><div><br></div><div>But,nonetheless, I will try to do a bit of catching up.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We received Emma Claire's passport on Friday.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zuEUCppOPyw/Umy66lnXYhI/AAAAAAAABM8/ETCpj5BwhQg/s640/blogger-image--1018398905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zuEUCppOPyw/Umy66lnXYhI/AAAAAAAABM8/ETCpj5BwhQg/s640/blogger-image--1018398905.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>This means we could travel to the next province in order to complete the United States side of our adoption.</div><div><br></div><div>We boarded a plane on Friday afternoon and took the 2 hour flight <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">to Guangzhou.</span></div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire is still not a fan of transportation. We tried to preoccupy her with colors and snacks.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E1H8wK57Cik/UmzLi6ofHuI/AAAAAAAABNc/_ORTmwQWvrc/s640/blogger-image--747769221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E1H8wK57Cik/UmzLi6ofHuI/AAAAAAAABNc/_ORTmwQWvrc/s640/blogger-image--747769221.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YtgQrHigtXc/UmzLm_4V8XI/AAAAAAAABNk/3l74RDuH0V8/s640/blogger-image-760844629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YtgQrHigtXc/UmzLm_4V8XI/AAAAAAAABNk/3l74RDuH0V8/s640/blogger-image-760844629.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>It worked for a little while and then the whimpering began.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Upon arrival at the Guangzhou airport, we met up with our guide and another family with our agency.</div><div><br></div><div>After a good night's sleep and another wonderful breakfast buffet, we made our way to get Emma Claire's visa photo taken and then the dreaded medical appointment.</div><div><br></div><div>All stations went well until it was time for the blood test.</div><div><br></div><div>Of course, she cried.</div><div><br></div><div>But, she was comforted easily and was so proud of her band aid!</div><div><br></div><div>She kept showing me and wanting me to kiss it.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kf1NkDOfBYY/Umy3xt5pYWI/AAAAAAAABMk/gxWM_f-LW2Q/s640/blogger-image--223106836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kf1NkDOfBYY/Umy3xt5pYWI/AAAAAAAABMk/gxWM_f-LW2Q/s640/blogger-image--223106836.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Saturday afternoon we went shopping and had a blast!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GwSA4PZJ94g/UmzLZkTwP4I/AAAAAAAABNU/VwSpQLmDmQ8/s640/blogger-image-473410087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GwSA4PZJ94g/UmzLZkTwP4I/AAAAAAAABNU/VwSpQLmDmQ8/s640/blogger-image-473410087.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We then treated ourselves to some American food.... McDonalds!</div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire loves French fries!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Qhf6D4EOP-s/Umy5M2dQFuI/AAAAAAAABMw/MEkjBfcbObI/s640/blogger-image--1328008964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Qhf6D4EOP-s/Umy5M2dQFuI/AAAAAAAABMw/MEkjBfcbObI/s640/blogger-image--1328008964.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Heidi enjoyed it, as well.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hqXQq1Eg8Fs/UmzLWMDLl3I/AAAAAAAABNM/JgMMv9cYH-w/s640/blogger-image-568102604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hqXQq1Eg8Fs/UmzLWMDLl3I/AAAAAAAABNM/JgMMv9cYH-w/s640/blogger-image-568102604.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>It's funny... Heidi and I really do not care for McDonalds much when we are at home.</div><div><br></div><div>But, last night it was so good! :)</div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-23946297048824719482013-10-23T11:18:00.001-05:002013-10-23T11:18:06.888-05:00Free DayToday has been a laid back day, as we did not have any appointments.<div><br></div><div>It was nice to take our time getting ready and leisurely enjoy our breakfast.</div><div><br></div><div>This morning we walked down the street a bit to a beautiful park.</div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire loves to get out and be around people. She waved and smiled at everyone we passed.</div><div><br></div><div>We kept busy in the hotel room with coloring, reading books and blowing bubbles.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qx0iF1GIDZA/Umf2vaLhCqI/AAAAAAAABMQ/ddQnGZy5LO0/s640/blogger-image-1362232507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qx0iF1GIDZA/Umf2vaLhCqI/AAAAAAAABMQ/ddQnGZy5LO0/s640/blogger-image-1362232507.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vOZBvX4jjpA/Umf2svkhw6I/AAAAAAAABMI/HIgEoeL8DX0/s640/blogger-image--436446561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vOZBvX4jjpA/Umf2svkhw6I/AAAAAAAABMI/HIgEoeL8DX0/s640/blogger-image--436446561.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Tomorrow afternoon we will be visiting Swallow's Nest. This is the foster home where Emma Claire has lived. We are looking forward to our visit! It is a wonderful place with incredible people who were instrumental in taking such wonderful care of our girl.</div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-19035695576822187862013-10-22T22:49:00.001-05:002013-10-22T22:52:27.807-05:00TuesdayThis morning we started our day with the hotel's wonderful breakfast buffet.<div><br></div><div>Emma Claire enjoyed watermelon, dragon fruit, congee and a little yogurt.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5kP5KpZ5Hh8/UmbigVcKbTI/AAAAAAAABLc/3aMth8_-cbs/s640/blogger-image-1654030721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5kP5KpZ5Hh8/UmbigVcKbTI/AAAAAAAABLc/3aMth8_-cbs/s640/blogger-image-1654030721.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c2nO1hLV15k/Umbibb-rlFI/AAAAAAAABLM/foOCnpoJ_F8/s640/blogger-image--1862344553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c2nO1hLV15k/Umbibb-rlFI/AAAAAAAABLM/foOCnpoJ_F8/s640/blogger-image--1862344553.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Shortly thereafter, we headed back to the Civil Affairs office to make everything official. Here we were presented with the wonderful adoption certificate.</div><div><br></div><div>We have discovered that EC does not enjoy riding in the van. She seems to shut down. So sad! But, the second that we step out of the van her precious smile reappears. </div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire has quite the personality!</div><div><br></div><div>We ventured out to Wal-Mart again before lunch.</div><div><br></div><div>EC waived to everyone that we passed on the street and to everyone in Wal-Mart. She would flash her big smile, wave and say, "hey!" until the person would smile and wave back at her.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wrvGLJyFbGg/UmbiO9_ExgI/AAAAAAAABK0/CpTJ-Kob1KQ/s640/blogger-image-215126560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wrvGLJyFbGg/UmbiO9_ExgI/AAAAAAAABK0/CpTJ-Kob1KQ/s640/blogger-image-215126560.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Later this afternoon we headed to apply for Emma Claire's passport.</div><div>All went well and we returned to our room and had noodles for dinner.</div><div><br></div><div>After her bath, I painted Emma Claire's nails. She absolutely loved it! Such a girly girl! She and Maylee are going to get along so well.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MhfsPols6pg/UmbiS6-elUI/AAAAAAAABK8/wHleO2Xbma4/s640/blogger-image-616311340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MhfsPols6pg/UmbiS6-elUI/AAAAAAAABK8/wHleO2Xbma4/s640/blogger-image-616311340.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Bxzozck5yVs/UmbiWllH1_I/AAAAAAAABLE/iVs_TQu_s8o/s640/blogger-image--1675851274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Bxzozck5yVs/UmbiWllH1_I/AAAAAAAABLE/iVs_TQu_s8o/s640/blogger-image--1675851274.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>We enjoyed FaceTime with everybody at home before heading off to bed. </div><div><br></div><div>Tomorrow is a free day, and I think we are going to venture in a different direction to check out a park that is nearby.</div><div><br></div><div>I'll leave you with a few pics that show some of the many cute faces of Emma Claire.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-uxYZrLlW-cc/UmbieDvCv5I/AAAAAAAABLU/wEKXiAHeNL0/s640/blogger-image-171031104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-uxYZrLlW-cc/UmbieDvCv5I/AAAAAAAABLU/wEKXiAHeNL0/s640/blogger-image-171031104.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3ybP0uUwWtY/UmdHDHId2zI/AAAAAAAABLo/sLPwom_ZHX4/s640/blogger-image--524902806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3ybP0uUwWtY/UmdHDHId2zI/AAAAAAAABLo/sLPwom_ZHX4/s640/blogger-image--524902806.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kx6AkdZd5eM/UmdHT7KXYdI/AAAAAAAABL4/y6mLWA5hSRg/s640/blogger-image-1148342062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kx6AkdZd5eM/UmdHT7KXYdI/AAAAAAAABL4/y6mLWA5hSRg/s640/blogger-image-1148342062.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RWMZh5YYl_A/UmdHLe6wEuI/AAAAAAAABLw/_LBnGwyRftE/s640/blogger-image--483227845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RWMZh5YYl_A/UmdHLe6wEuI/AAAAAAAABLw/_LBnGwyRftE/s640/blogger-image--483227845.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-19416194669750398642013-10-21T01:39:00.001-05:002013-10-21T01:39:25.947-05:00Gotcha!I Wow!<div><br></div><div>What a day!</div><div><br></div><div>We met our guide in the hotel lobby at 9:30 this morning and loaded in the van for the 20 minute ride to the Civil Affairs office.</div><div><br></div><div>We were the first ones there and had the honor to witness several families unite with their babies for the first time.</div><div><br></div><div>Such emotions fill that room.</div><div><br></div><div>Emma Claire was the last to arrive.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dZ5FKGlZu5o/UmTIiZBIkeI/AAAAAAAABKE/qTmy4XIDvRQ/s640/blogger-image-1365249360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dZ5FKGlZu5o/UmTIiZBIkeI/AAAAAAAABKE/qTmy4XIDvRQ/s640/blogger-image-1365249360.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>She had tears in her eyes, mainly due to the child who was riding with her as they were from the same orphanage. He was quite upset and that seemed to make Emma Claire worried and upset.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SIpinuVC_W4/UmTL8s8E5iI/AAAAAAAABKQ/1Ot6yhLFH0Y/s640/blogger-image-1880996695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SIpinuVC_W4/UmTL8s8E5iI/AAAAAAAABKQ/1Ot6yhLFH0Y/s640/blogger-image-1880996695.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dblavqcKsp8/UmTIbXVKTOI/AAAAAAAABJs/xWP2Uz5fivU/s640/blogger-image--1372643552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dblavqcKsp8/UmTIbXVKTOI/AAAAAAAABJs/xWP2Uz5fivU/s640/blogger-image--1372643552.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After signing some paperwork and putting my red thumbprint and Emma Claire's red handprint, we headed to the van.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gXnlf7fmBYk/UmTMBpOomkI/AAAAAAAABKY/_QuV4PxrlBc/s640/blogger-image--323973805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gXnlf7fmBYk/UmTMBpOomkI/AAAAAAAABKY/_QuV4PxrlBc/s640/blogger-image--323973805.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Here we are on the way back to the hotel.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q6-6jGHOjJU/UmTIZNFP1pI/AAAAAAAABJk/mmCP0ctfjyo/s640/blogger-image--1789431697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q6-6jGHOjJU/UmTIZNFP1pI/AAAAAAAABJk/mmCP0ctfjyo/s640/blogger-image--1789431697.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Thankfully, it was just a short 20 minute ride.</div><div><br></div><div>Things started to sink in and Emma Claire silently shed a couple of tears.</div><div><br></div><div>But, once we got back up to the hotel room, she quickly cheered up and started to show off her sweet, sassy personality!</div><div><br></div><div>We skyped with Abby and Mike. Emma Claire pointed to Mike and said, "Daddy!"</div><div>This is the first time we had heard her speak!</div><div><br></div><div>Sweet girl is taking a nap now, so I'll close with a few more pictures.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-P1xUQXfFbP8/UmTIf1xMPWI/AAAAAAAABJ8/JTY5Sgn9tAE/s640/blogger-image-1076901911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-P1xUQXfFbP8/UmTIf1xMPWI/AAAAAAAABJ8/JTY5Sgn9tAE/s640/blogger-image-1076901911.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PkoQ7-QihmI/UmTMHBB-LaI/AAAAAAAABKg/vIK7TfbHVaM/s640/blogger-image--1166450841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PkoQ7-QihmI/UmTMHBB-LaI/AAAAAAAABKg/vIK7TfbHVaM/s640/blogger-image--1166450841.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gTQK8yTskMQ/UmTIdqqyATI/AAAAAAAABJ0/SmExcTEvlUY/s640/blogger-image--938331404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gTQK8yTskMQ/UmTIdqqyATI/AAAAAAAABJ0/SmExcTEvlUY/s640/blogger-image--938331404.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5979115255812078207.post-47429530710972241482013-09-23T21:47:00.000-05:002013-09-23T21:47:07.824-05:00We're coming soon, baby girl<span style="font-size: x-large;">Yep!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">That's right!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">We have Travel Approval!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Our confirmed Consulate Appointment is on Oct. 29th.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">And, we will meet this sweet face on October 21st!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an0C4Lt4inM/UkD0x430BXI/AAAAAAAABIA/7n2IvdGkExE/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an0C4Lt4inM/UkD0x430BXI/AAAAAAAABIA/7n2IvdGkExE/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="309" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Heidi & I will be the only ones making the trip.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We are both super excited and cannot wait to play dress-up, fix each other's hair and polish fingernails with our Emma Claire!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Looking back over the past year and a half of waiting to bring Emma Claire home, brings about a wealth of emotion.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So many people have shown us the most sincere love and support.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have met new friends and families along the way, which is always a blessing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You see, back in 2008, our family of 5 traveled across the ocean to a distant land to meet a little girl who was about to turn two years old. We had only seen her picture and knew a few medical facts about her.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But, what none of us knew was that this little girl we were about to meet would change the make-up of our family forever.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We are honored to be going back to China for another precious treasure.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And, just for a little trip down memory lane, I will leave you with some precious, priceless pictures of our newest sweetie pie!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YsXlF9flA5c/UkD5Z6-DZRI/AAAAAAAABIM/j75MQZOVR14/s1600/IMG_4668+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YsXlF9flA5c/UkD5Z6-DZRI/AAAAAAAABIM/j75MQZOVR14/s400/IMG_4668+(2).JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the earliest picture we have</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Vu3cqJnn4/UkD5xatt3iI/AAAAAAAABIU/f7Kv3-MDC7I/s1600/1-20-IMG_2890-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Vu3cqJnn4/UkD5xatt3iI/AAAAAAAABIU/f7Kv3-MDC7I/s400/1-20-IMG_2890-001.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing bigger & stronger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-smB2YR4vroE/UkD769j_g_I/AAAAAAAABIo/N65PULXa72U/s1600/%E7%85%A7%E7%89%87_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-smB2YR4vroE/UkD769j_g_I/AAAAAAAABIo/N65PULXa72U/s400/%E7%85%A7%E7%89%87_001.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most recent pic we received</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBwPIVQiAdA/UkD5_EL2cYI/AAAAAAAABIc/e2Ljgj-QO1Q/s1600/emmaclaire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBwPIVQiAdA/UkD5_EL2cYI/AAAAAAAABIc/e2Ljgj-QO1Q/s400/emmaclaire.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st Picture we ever saw...Love at 1st sight!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08319050019922778113noreply@blogger.com2