Journey To Audrey

Happy Gotcha Day Audrey

2010-03-18T15:10:00.003-05:00

Now.......

And then!

We have now had our sweet girl for two wonderful years... it feels as if she has ALWAYS been with us! She has brought unspeakable joy to us all! We love you so much, Audrey!

More 2009!!

2010-01-02T22:44:00.000-05:00

Laura's Wedding!

2010-01-02T22:39:00.001-05:00

2009 In Review

2010-01-02T22:07:00.005-05:00

Updates

2009-08-22T22:34:00.004-05:00

Daddy and his girl!!!

Ms. Lisa, our very sweet teacher

Audrey and her friend

Very excited!!

Not liking it so much now!!!

Audrey had a great first day at preschool! She loved it but I really thought it would be harder for her! She amazes me! Now if she continues to like it, I will be so happy!

More gifts from China!!

2009-05-28T19:44:00.003-05:00

Ryan's Graduation

2009-05-28T19:29:00.003-05:00

Last day in 5th grade! Middle school, here I come!

Getting a little advice from big brother!

Ryan's wonderful teacher, Mr. Koth! We will miss him!

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-28T19:16:00.004-05:00

We had a GREAT time with a cookout and pool party with friends!

Gifts From China

2009-05-17T15:13:00.005-05:00

My wonderful friend in Sichuan, China is so sweet to send Audrey beautiful things from her Province. Last week she sent her this brocade from The Chengdu Su Brocade & Embroidery Museum. It is hand-made, using needles and thread and over ten skills to make it. This is something so special and I will keep it forever for her! She also sent shoes, nesting dolls, and other things that Audrey will appreciate later on. She also went t the Chengdu Panda Research Center and bought Audrey the same panda I bought her there. Audrey sleeps with it and I wanted another like it just in case "pandy" was to ever get lost! Without saying to much about my friend, she is very close with Audrey's orphanage and if I have a question, she calls them and gets the information I want. She is Amazing!

Playing Catch Up!

2009-05-17T14:31:00.008-05:00

Great Friends!

Ryan and his sidekick

Audrey loves to entertain!

Enjoying Ryan's last field day!

Ryan is having a GREAT season with lots of tie breaking hits and runs for his team. We are so proud of him!

Cody and his BFF, Matt .... oh he would choke me if he knew I said that!

My sweet baby getting ready to cheer Ryan on!

Ryan played a Priest! Perfect for him.

Ryan's Talent Show at school!

Easter Morning

2009-04-12T18:14:00.005-05:00

" Hold on, daddy is driving!"

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T17:37:00.001-05:00

So Cute!

2009-04-11T17:33:00.001-05:00

A Day At The Park

2009-04-02T14:22:00.004-05:00

Photo Session~ Take One

2009-04-01T15:51:00.003-05:00

Flowers in Bloom

2009-03-30T17:32:00.006-05:00

Our girl loves to dance!

This way, mom!

Ok.. I have to admit, I am not keeping these flowers up and they have just started to bloom. We are still in a rental house and gardening here is not on my priority list. We have had rain for some time now and it's still a little chilly outside, but we did manage to get out a few minutes to look at how BAD our grass needs mowed! Anyway, hopefully we will have this/our house built before long!!!

(This is a photo and not our actual house)

Spring Break

2009-03-28T18:16:00.003-05:00

One more before I go! My 3 reasons! ;)

Audrey And Her Panda

2009-03-28T17:54:00.007-05:00

I took these photos as I was cleaning her room. Of course she wanted to watch and not help! She also insisted on having panda by her side to cheer me on. This particular panda we bought in Sichuan. I wish so bad that I had bought two or three because it is her favorite thing and it's also the softest one I have felt. She takes it every time we plan on a overnight stay.

I may be closing this blog for a while. Spring is here and summer is not far behind. With all the things going on right now, this blog and my computer time will be put on the back burner for a while. I enjoy reading everyone's blog, but other things need my undivided attention and I'm not sure I'll be back until the fall~ if then. I hope everyone has a GREAT summer!

Gotcha Day Anniversary

2009-03-17T18:48:00.019-05:00

That was then.....

Gotcha Day!

Audrey's finding spot

Adoption day
Easter in China
Red couch

We are finally home!

One year later!

Thank you Hannah for the beautiful and delicious panda cake!

One year ago today a beautiful little black hair princess was placed in my arms for the very first time. Words could never express how grateful we feel, but yet sad for the mother who wanted a better life for her precious daughter. I can't imagine what a sacrifice she made and the pain that she most likely still holds in her heart. I find myself thinking of her so often and praying that she can feel some peace and know that she is happy and healthy. I believe with all my heart she was meant to be our daughter, but God just used a woman half a world away to bring her to us. For this I could never re-pay or ever forget. This is one of the happiest days of our lives and we will always cherish our little girl. We are so blessed!

Sunny Days And A Pal's Milkshake

2009-03-09T15:54:00.004-05:00

Finally a few warm days here and mom got me a Pal's milkshake to drink outside! What a great way to start of spring!

Funny Faces

2009-03-06T21:33:00.004-05:00

This time last year (actually today's date) I got the call that we would be leaving on March 11 to to pick up our daughter. What, 5 days??! I can't tell you what excitement we felt to finally get the child that God intended us to have. ~I will save the rest for her "Gotcha Day" post, but for now here are a few faces of Audrey which are always followed by "Ta' da".

Disney on Ice

2009-03-06T13:39:00.004-05:00

Waiting for the show

Audrey's friend Lexi

She had to have the ICEE!

Audrey trying to get a piggy back ride from dad!

Saturday fun

2009-02-22T16:38:00.007-05:00

We had to sneak to get this photo. When the girls would catch a glimpse of us, they would stop brushing each others hair. How cute is that.

Audrey here with her Mamaw.

Ready for bed, V day and Upward!

2009-02-15T20:34:00.008-05:00

It's been a bit since I have posted so here are a couple of highlights. Audrey in her beautiful pj.'s that Robin made for her. I think I have said before, but Audrey LOVES panda bears! I wish I had bought more of them from Sichuan. The next few pictures are her on Valentine's day in her cute lady bug outfit. Every time she wears it, she tells everyone "daddy's love bug". We also had an Upward game Sat. Ryan played so good and we are very proud of him and he's great attitude with team work.

We are in the process if making plans for Gotcha day! On March 17th, we will have had her 1 year. That is so hard to believe. I want it to be very special and with everyone close to us. She has changed our lives in so many wonderful ways. We are blessed beyond words!

Happy Chinese New Year!

2009-02-01T21:53:00.007-05:00

Taking care of "baby"

2009-01-19T10:40:00.003-05:00

Here is Audrey spending a little quality time with here babies. She loves to take them "shopping" and rock them "night-night". She amazes me at how caring she is, even in play. We are so lucky to have such a beautiful daughter, inside and out.

One smart cookie!

2009-01-05T21:11:00.009-05:00

Santa left these cute glasses for Audrey in her stocking. I think she looks so sweet in them.

Thank you Melissa and Haily for my beautiful Dress!

Auction dress arrives

2008-12-31T14:51:00.003-05:00

Jennifer over at myadoptionwesite held a on-line auction to raise money for Love without Boundaries. She raised a total of $1,900 to help with "coats and cribs" in China.

We won a fabulous dress in a size 4T. I thought Audrey could wear next year. Well, the very minute it came, she opened it up and had to try it on- over her clothes! As you can see, it fits her perfect now. I think she would sleep in it if I would let her. She is truly a clothes and shoe girl!

We hope everyone has a Safe and Happy New Year!

Hi Santa, I have been VERY good!

2008-12-28T12:16:00.004-05:00

Audrey absolutely LOVED Santa and I think Santa liked her too! She told him all she wanted, which was three things. He must have known how special and good she really is because he brought her lots more and no coal in her stocking, just the boys! ;)

All dressed up

2008-12-28T09:33:00.009-05:00

Our sweet girl's very first Christmas!

Audrey learns to bake

2008-11-30T18:25:00.003-05:00

We are so Thankful this year!

2008-11-26T16:12:00.004-05:00

Audrey in Feb. 08 (This is one of the last pictures we received before before we traveled in March)

Audrey Nov. 2008

A Beautiful Bride and a Little Flower Girl

2008-11-18T10:18:00.011-05:00

Amanda and Audrey

Audrey trying to dance before the wedding with my dad

Anthony and my mom dance after the wedding

My mom and brother sharing a dance

And of course, the father and daughter dance

Lazy days at home

2008-11-03T11:03:00.007-05:00

Do you want some tea, Cody?Cody stopping for a 'spot of tea"

"Can you hurry, Cody?"

Kisses for my bear

She is telling her baby to "smile"

More Halloween fun!

2008-10-30T21:04:00.003-05:00

Ryan won the "seed spitting" contest two times... I am so proud!

Audrey's Halloween play date

2008-10-30T20:54:00.005-05:00

Audrey had a Halloween play date today. All the girls looked so cute in their costumes. Ever since we went to Disney, all she wants to do is dress like Minnie Mouse. Luckily, she will out grow this outfit real soon, but she's still adorable in it!

Audrey's first dance class

2008-10-28T16:27:00.003-05:00

Well, today was Audrey's second class, but the pictures are from the first one she took. Audrey absolutely loves dance and music. This girl could dance and sing in her sleep.... watch out American Idol!

Fall Break at Disney

2008-10-25T19:19:00.011-05:00

Fall Break was wonderful this year. It was a time for a much needed get-a-way! Back to the books and work again.

Birthday Time in Tennessee!!

2008-09-22T15:28:00.007-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Ryan and Audrey's birthday's! Ryan was 11 on the 18th and Audrey turned 2 on the 20th! We had the party at a local farm, which was a big hit with the kids. They had some great activities such as "find the gore in the haystack" Painting and decorating a pumpkin or pottery, a hayride, a trip through the corn maze, (for the bigger kids) and after dark all the kids made smores and roasted marshmallows. It's was nice to have both parties together and clean up only once!

Daily happenings

2008-09-11T18:23:00.007-05:00

I am trying to catch up a little on posting photos, again! Next week Audrey will turn 2 and Ryan will turn 11 years old! I am trying to plan two parties, but I think I have this thing figured out and I can't wait!!! Finally, a "girly" party!

Back to the basics

2008-09-03T12:44:00.006-05:00

I am so excited Fall is in the air, or at least hanging on my door! Last weekend I managed to pull out my Fall basket for my front door which will probably be the extent of my decor this year. We have had a lot of "life" changes this summer, most were welcomed and needed while others were hard and emotional.

Since being home with Audrey we have experienced many milestones. She is such an amazing addition to our family and what perfect timing! I have chose not to post on my blog most of the summer because I wanted to be with all my children as much as I could, so the computer was put on the back burner. I am now "finally" getting back into the swing of things, but I am not sure how much I will be posting in the coming months.

Before leaving to bring Audrey home, Anthony and I decided to put the house on the market about 3 weeks after we came home, thinking it would take maybe six months to a year to sell... It sold in about 40 days. We are now in a rental house and are building "one more time" and I am not moving again!!!! It's amazing how much stuff we gathered in the 4 years since our last house we built, but this is something we really wanted to do. Our new lot is in a much better location. We are all excited!

Cody has now moved out and left for college. I am still dealing with that. Audrey is really missing him in a bad way, but they do talk on the phone and he is not far from home. :) He has adjusted very well being out on his own and I am very proud of him.

Ryan started the 5th grade this year and loves it. Audrey gets so excited each day to pick him up and especially when we go for ice cream after school.

We have a long Fall Break this year, so we are going to Disney with some friends of ours. Audrey is wearing out the Disney book we gave her. I know she will be so excited to see everything and I can't wait to share that with her. This time we can finally eat with Cinderella!

Last night we had our 6 months post placement report and it went very well. I am looking so forward to the next and last report we will ever have to do! These things stress me out.

Audrey's first trip to the beach

2008-07-21T21:50:00.013-05:00

Our sweet girl

2008-06-29T15:07:00.001-05:00

2008-06-25T14:40:00.006-05:00

Cody with two very special friends!
Ryan and Reece at UT basketball Camp!

Audrey being silly!

Graduation Day!

2008-05-25T22:02:00.011-05:00

OK, a very proud momma here! Yesterday at 10:00 am, Cody graduated High School! What a bitter-sweet moment that was. I can't believe this day actually came. You talk about this "big event" for years and don't put much thought into the emotions that come with your sweet little one growing up and moving on. I have to admit, I was a basket case for a few days with the unknown of what my true reaction would be when he walked across that stage and drove away from that school for the last time. A friend of mine told me about this book, "Let me hold you longer", by Karen Kingsbury. If you haven't read it and you have boys especially,buy it and a box of tissue. Here is a little sneak peek;

"Long ago you came to me, a miracle of firsts: First smiles and teeth and baby steps, a sunbeam on the burst. But one day you will move away and leave to me your past, And I will be left thinking of a lifetime of your lasts...."

*By the way, Cody got a copy of this book on graduation day. When he was smaller, he had a handful of special books we read. Those will never leave his room. Yes, we are building again, but he will always have his room at home as long as I am his Mother and I think that is FOREVER! No downsizing for us. ;)

Cody, We are so proud of you and your accomplishments, I have already spoken to you college room-mate and he doesn't mind if I come too!! ;)

New pictures of Audrey's orphanage

2008-05-22T22:23:00.006-05:00

Chengdu: As aftershocks continue, the orphanage decided to take the precaution of moving the children outside.

This is so difficult from me to look at. These pictures are very humbling and after being there such a short time ago, my heart goes out to everyone that has suffered. I wish, like I am sure others do as well, that I could go back and help in some way. I can't help but think that Audrey could have been among those we see.

Re-adoption Day!

2008-05-21T19:09:00.004-05:00

Last Friday we went to court and re-adopted Audrey, although we had adopted her in China, since I was the only parent that traveled it was necessary to do this once we were back in the states and also required to receive her Tennessee birth certificate. We have already received her social security card in the mail. I am so glad all the paperwork is finished! She is Officially ours!
(notice she has a Tom Cruise dress on for this special day;)

Earthquake in Sichuan

2008-05-13T22:21:00.004-05:00

It's is very hard to imagine the grief and tragedy that has came to our daughter's Province and City she was born. We are defiantly holding her a little closer tonight. I am sure by now most people are aware of the devastation and lose of life that has occurred with this earthquake. It's been less than 2 months since we were in Chengdu to bring home our daughter and although she is home with us safe and sound, there are thousands of orphans and residents suffering tonight. Please keep these precious children and caregivers in your thoughts and prayers and hope for a brighter day.

This and that pictures!

2008-05-13T09:14:00.004-05:00

Audrey loves to carry her purse around filled with goodies. This could keep her busy for hours I believe. She is very neat and organized most the time and actually her purse is cleaner than mine!

Friends from Alabama!

2008-05-13T09:02:00.005-05:00

Last week we had some friends, Wes and Christy visit from Alabama who went to grad. school with Anthony. We had a great time at dinner and enjoyed meeting their 9 1/2 month old son Karl for the first time. He is such a doll! We only wished they lived closer to us!

Meeting Tom Cruise and Katie!

2008-05-05T20:27:00.013-05:00

Last week my me and my mom flew up to Chicago for a few days to shop and see the Oprah show. One evening while we were in Neiman Marcus, we ran into T*m Cruise, Katie, Su*i, Tom's mom and two sisters. It was amazing to actually meet him face to face and have a conversation with his entire family. They were shopping in the children's department and I was "just looking", that place is pretty expensive for me! Anyway, we talked for about 15 or so minutes about everything. They are some of the nicest people you could ever meet- very down to earth. Tom's mom was so sweet and so was his sisters. We got on the subject of adoption. My mom was admiring Su*i and continued to tell them I had just adopted a little girl about her age from China. They we very interested in that and asked questions. Tom ask me if I knew he had two adopted children and of course I did. They must have congratulated us a hundred times and told us how wonderful that was. To make a very long story short, Tom said that he and Katie wanted to buy Audrey a dress and of course I declined, but they continued to pick her out not one dress, but three dresses. One of the dresses Katie said Su*i had and she loved it. I had to take a picture of the dresses when I got back to the hotel room. I have also planned to have her first professional photo taken in them next week. I can't wait!

* Of course I had to have the worse possible thing on when I met them. I think I wore that orange jacket everyday in China! That morning before I left for the airport, I grabbed the first thing hanging in the garage, thinking that I would leave it in the car when we got to the airport... didn't happen!;) It's going in the garbage now! I had also planned to freshen up, like shower, comb my hair, etc. before we started to shop.... didn't happen either, but Neiman Marcus was just across the street, who could we possibly see in CHICAGO??? Lesson learned, but a nice one at that!

This week in review!

2008-04-28T17:41:00.004-05:00

We have had another good week and I am trying to find more time to catch up on things around the house! As you can see in the pictures, Audrey likes playing with dolls and mommy is very pleased with that! ;) I think I have mentioned what a good sleeper she is, but I don't think I have said how FAST she falls asleep, even with a sucker! I love that she sleeps so sound and LONG! On Friday we headed off to Dollywood in the Smokey Mountains which is really close to home. I sorta think Audrey thought we were back in China because there were so many people. I have not had her out in crowds or around a lot of loud events yet, although I know at some point she will be more exposed. I am trying real hard to ease her into more outdoor things. With two brothers, she'll catch on fast!

Audrey's first trip to Dollywood

2008-04-28T17:40:00.001-05:00

Ice Cream with Friends

2008-04-28T17:25:00.000-05:00

We are so in love!

2008-04-21T13:21:00.005-05:00

Well, I have a couple of minutes again! My mom watched her for a while today

and it seems like everytime someone (mom) watches her they want to play and not nap!!!

That's ok because she usually just wants me for nap time anyway.

We are still in amazement with Audrey. We aren't sure what we have done to deserve this little girl, but we are so thankful she is ours. I have had her only 1 month and 4 days, but I will tell you I feel like I have always known her in my heart. I have had this empty feeling for several years, well since Ryan was born, that our family was not complete. I can honestly say God has completed our family. All the wondering and not knowing if we would ever have another child or even if we were supposed to have another child has finally ended and we are at such peace with Gods plan. We can now move forward with our lives and know that we are where we are supposed to be. I never thought I would have this kind of comfort, but God knows when, where and what we all need. You know how the old song goes, "He may not come when you want Him to, but he's always right on time"!

Cody is in Atlanta this week and I am headed out for ice cream with Ryan, Audrey and some friends! I will be posting prom pictures in the next little bit!

Sweet baby!

2008-04-14T21:19:00.004-05:00

These are a few pictures I took today. We have been home with Audrey for almost 3 weeks. It really feels like I have always had her. She is so perfect for our family. Everyday I can just see how blessed we are to have her as our daughter.

I love my brother's Blackberry!!!
Another new toy, hum.. I like this!
A visit to Ryan's class, they all loved me and wanted to hold me.
My sweet baby!!!!

I know I haven't posted much at all since I returned home, but I hope to be back on track in a few more days! We are gearing up for an exciting few months. There is a lot going on around the house right now and it looks like we are going to be very busy!!! We only have a little over a month before Cody graduates and summer fun starts. We will keep everyone posted on some up and coming events!!!

Here are a few pictures

2008-04-06T20:56:00.002-05:00

We're Home!!!!

2008-04-05T21:31:00.003-05:00

I am excited to say we are HOME!!! I know I haven't posted since we got back, but we have all been so taken by Audrey, it's hard to find a moment and sneak away to the computer. She is a dream come true. We are so blessed by her and the joy she has brought to our lives. Her brothers adore her and she lights up when they come home from school each day. Anthony was beyond words the first time her saw her at the airport and she already has him wrapped around that little finger! I can't believe I became so emotional when we came through those gates, but it was so powerful the love that was waiting for us just a few steps away. We finally have our family complete. We are also so thankful for all the friends and family who came out that night to celebrate our home coming and everyone who brought food the next few days!

Audrey had her doctors appointment last Monday and the doctor said "we hit the jackpot" and boy did we ever!! She is as healthy as a horse. She sleeps through the night, she eats any and everything and she has the best personality. Audrey has bonded great. She is a happy baby and full of excitement. In all the months of waiting, I really never dreamed we would be so lucky to have such an incredible daughter. Adoption, just like child birth is truly a miracle from God!

I am on my laptop now and don't have access to photos, but I will add new ones very soon!

A few photos to share!

2008-03-09T21:50:00.009-05:00

One more post before I go!!! I let the kids color eggs Saturday night. They really enjoyed coloring each other more! These were taken before they got crazy with the food coloring!!

See you from CHINA!!!

We're leaving a day earlier!!!

2008-03-05T19:15:00.004-05:00

Only 6 days now!!!! We have our tickets but we have to leave a day eariler and come home a day late! I won't be posting anymore until I get to China and that will be on the myadoptionwebsite!
Here is how our itinerary looks as of now. We will get the "in China" travel a couple of days before we leave! Gotcha Day is March 17th!!!

March 11,
Leave home at 7:20 Am
Arrive Detroit at 9:33 Am
Leave Detroit at 2:15 Pm
Arrive Tokyo at 4:20 Pm 3/12
Leave Tokyo at 6:20 Pm
Arrive Beijing at 9:30Pm

Gotcha Day... MARCH 17 (My mom's birthday!!)

March 27,
Leave China at 8:20 Am
Arrive Tokyo at 1:45 Pm
Leave Tokyo at 3:00 Pm
Arrive Detroit at 1:45 Pm
Leave Detroit at 7:25 Pm
Arrive HOME at 9:23 Pm

8 More days.......

2008-03-04T14:14:00.005-05:00

Here is a random photo of Ryan at school yesterday. I am going to miss him like CRAZY!!!!

I have a little more information on our travel. We will Leave on Wednesday, March 12, and actually get Audrey on March 17..... St. Patrick's Day which happens to be my mom's birthday!!! We will return home on Wednesday, March 26. Once we have the itinerary for China, I will post it.

We're going to CHINA!!!!!

2008-02-27T19:28:00.005-05:00

Anthony spoke to our agency today and they said our Ta is in the air!!!! We should have it tomorrow or Friday. They have a group leaving on March 12th, we will be included in that group!!!! If everything goes as planned, we will leave the 12th and return on the 26th! We are beyond excited!

Remember, this is the site we will use while we are in China!

Still waiting for travel approval!!

2008-02-23T11:11:00.005-05:00

I don't know how much longer I can wait on travel approval!! My agency has said we could leave at anytime in March with us hoping it is around the first of the month. I have spent this past week finalizing last minute paperwork for our agency and getting everything ready to travel.
There has been many people with our same LOA that are receiving their travel approval this week...... I'm sure ours will come Monday or Tuesday!!!!!!!! Please say a little prayer!

Waiting for TA!!!

2008-02-19T11:53:00.003-05:00

Audrey's SWI

We are currently waiting for our Ta (travel approval) to arrive at our agency. Once our agency has this in hand, they can make our consulate appt. and we'll be on our way to our daughter. We are very excited for this final paper to come.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-15T18:05:00.010-05:00

These are the beautiful roses, (white is my favorite) I received on Valentines Day from Anthony, along with hand made cards from both boys and LOTS of Chocolate followed by a nice quiet family dinner!!!

On another note, I have finally gone to the doctor today and I have pneumonia! I have been pretty sick all week and Anthony has been treating me, but I had to get an x-ray and 3 shots today, blood drawn and YES they all hurt!!! ! The chocolate will come in handy tonight. ;)

China Angels New Year Celebration 2008

2008-02-12T17:57:00.001-05:00

A few party favors from CNY

Mom and dad
The start of the Chinese parade

David Clapp did a wonderful job leading it!!!

Ryan and Peyton are pros with the dragon hats... lol

Our dinner was catered by The Shanghai Restaurant

The Love Tree

Miss Jada adding her Red Envelope, so cute!!!

Hilliary, Abbey Grace and Kealee

Last Saturday night we celebrated Chinese New Year with "Our China Angels" group! This is an annual event and we also meet once a month for dinner and activities. We cannot wait until Audrey is home to attend these events and play with all the children!

Each year there is a Love Tree Ceremony. Parents and children are given red envelopes to hang on the tree with a donation inside. All proceeds from the Love Tree go directly to help support children growing up in Chinese orphanages, it’s called the Look Project. This year a total of $6,177.00 was raised including a matched donation.

Getting ready for Chinese New Year!

2008-02-06T18:59:00.001-05:00

Ryan and Jada

Ryan and Peyton dressed as a the dragon

Some treasures from a dear friend!

2008-02-04T16:39:00.000-05:00

Audreys very special blanket.... (thank you) ;) The stitch work is amazing.

This dress has a little one to match her.

I LOVE, LOVE LOVE, this bag!!! enough said!

Many naps will be taken on this soft pillow, (maybe by mommy).

This little lovey is being put in Audrey's suite case today.

I wish she had this scarf now, with all the bad weather in China, I am worried about her being warm enough. :(

I have a very dear friend, Robin who is sewing her way to her daughter, Mia Hope. Robin is working and making beautiful dresses, blankets, bags and lots more to help fund their adoption of Mia . Please take a minute and stop by here to see all her beautiful creations. I am posting a few of my favorites that I have bought and I can't wait to see Audrey enjoy each one.

* Robin, thank you for the special gifts you added, they really touched my heart and I can't wait to read the book to her.

redthreadstitches

Upward Basketball

2008-01-31T18:02:00.001-05:00

Where's the ball????

Ryan has loved playing Upward Basketball for a few years now and looks forward to it every season. It's a great time for young kids to come together for christian fellowship and fun at the same time. Here are a few pictures of Ryan in "action".

A special find! *update

2008-01-28T16:11:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to open the mailbox today and find this cute outfit I had ordered. One of my friends on myadoptionwebsite had this outfit for her little girl and I feel in love with it as soon as I seen her in it. I think it will be perfect for Audrey, very soft and comfortable.

* I got this outfit from http://www.etsy.com/ .
The pants came from http://www.boutiquemia.com/ and the shirts came from http://www.greenappleboutique.etsy.com/The ladies are friends. You can email them and request what you want. They get together and match everything.

Our new Beco Carrier

2008-01-27T15:54:00.000-05:00

Our new carrier finally came in and I would say, just in time! It's the new Beco "Butterfly" design and I chose the Mia print. I really liked the Carnival Bloom, but with the guys using it too, I thought this one would work for everybody. ;)

Oh! The spring line is out at Gap and I found this cute little panda at Kohl's.

Our LOA is finally here!!!!!

2008-01-25T11:42:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I am typing these words... We have LOA!!!!! We are beyond excited and what an amazing way to start out 2008!! God is Good!

Audrey, Mommy will be there soon to get you!

Going to Toast!!

2008-01-12T23:26:00.000-05:00

Me, Anthony, and Cody

Cody and Allie

Checking out their phones, they can't miss a call!

Cody and Jerron

The boys waiting on the girls

Some of the girls started doing pictures without the guys. ;)
Cody and Friends

The girls with their Toast glasses that they made. The girls looked so beautiful tonight!

Trying to line up for a group picture!!!

this is taking a while......

.....and finally, a few last pictures before they all leave for the evening!!! They are a good looking bunch of kids and we are so proud of them!!

New pictures of Audrey!

2008-01-11T18:00:00.001-05:00

Today I received several more photos of Audrey. I am so excited to get these. She has also gained about 4-5 lbs. since Nov. Look.... Her hair has grown and is laying down!!!! Can't wait to stick a bow in that. ;) Here is all of her updates:

Weight = 19.845 pounds (I think this is with all the clothes)
Height = 28.08 inches
Head Circumference = 45 cm
Chest Circumference = 48 cm
Number of teeth = 5
Foot Length = 11.5 cm

We will be on our way soon!!!

Getaway to the Grove Park Inn

2008-01-10T22:12:00.001-05:00

I took my nieces, Amanda and Laura to the Grove Park Inn for a couple of days at the Spa. We had a wonderful and very relaxing time. We each chose our favorite (they all happened to be the same) treatment. This was the one we chose....

Carolina Mud Pie Wrap- A wonderful mélange of warm fresh-water mud, essential oils, hydrating lotions and warm stones melt deliciously into your skin, enveloping you in sweet serenity.This treatment includes exfoliation, wrap, half-hour massage and a take-home gift.80 minutes —

As soon as we arrived , we ate lunch out on the terrace, then we went straight to the spa for the rest of the day. We headed back to the room that night, ordered room service in our P.J.'s and had the best time together just laughing and talking. I can't wait to take them back!!! They are both so very special to me.

They still had the Ginger Bread houses there, so we got to see

some of them. I enjoyed that!

Dinner was great!

Ok..... Our waitress took this picture, I really don't know what happened there, it's really dark!!
Laura and Amanda

Me and Laura

The beautiful bib I won!

2008-01-10T10:28:00.001-05:00

My beautiful bib finally arrived and I absolutely love it! The Website that we will use while we are in China, myadoptionwebsite.com , has a giveaway each month for some really neat things. I love to enter and this past month, I won this gorgeous monogrammed bib!;) You can find some really wonderful and unique things Julie has at pinkpolkadotz.com . Happy shopping!

Starting to lay out a few of Audrey's clothes!!!

2008-01-05T11:16:00.001-05:00

I have officially started to get some of Audrey's clothes together on the bed. I don't want to take to much, just very comfortable things for her to wear. I have also picked out some toys to take. I am really not sure exactly what to pack as far as toys go, so if anyone has any suggestions....PLEASE let me know.

My baggie!!

A few Anthony added!

Ok, so I got together some meds I thought we could take and I put them in a baggie. Simple enough.... Most of you know my husband works in the "medical field" right? Well, last week we made a trip to Walgreen’s so he could add "a couple" of must have medications. I think I can dose the whole orphanage with this stuff, oh and of course we have our prescriptions from our doctors we will take too. I guess I feel better about us (not ever) getting sick.

Audrey's room and a few new outfits!!!

2007-12-29T14:20:00.002-05:00

A dress for Audrey and........

a dress for her doll.

This sweater and hat was one of the gifts for Audrey from my nieces, Amanda and Laura. I love everything they bought for her!

Christmas 2007

2007-12-26T12:18:00.002-05:00

A couple more Christmas photos

2007-12-23T22:30:00.001-05:00

The boys attempt at cookie making.... again!!!!

2007-12-23T22:13:00.001-05:00

Cody and Ryan found it more fun to have a "cookie dough fight" rather than "cookie dough creations". Never the less.... they are no Betty crocker or should I say, Emeril.

Making Christmas ornaments at school

2007-12-23T22:04:00.001-05:00

Ryan and his 4th grade class made christmas ornaments at school last week. They turned out very nice, but some broke between school and home.... not even a hot glue gun could fix it!!!

Celebrating a wedding

2007-12-15T22:06:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Jeff and Brittany!!
We attended our friends wedding today and it was absolutely beautiful. They have dated for 7 years and we wish them many more together. I also had a chance to add a couple pictures of the boys. I feel like I haven't had time lately to take many photos of them. Oh, the cakes were delicious!!!!

Introducing our newest member of our family*updated information

2007-12-06T17:33:00.001-05:00

We received the call yesterday about 2:45 pm. and this is what we know so far:

Chinese Name: Gou-Quixi
Birthday: Sept. 20, 2006
Her weight is: 14.3 lbs.
Her height is: 26"
She is in the Chengdu City SWI, Sichuan Province

we will receive everything else tomorrow via Fed-Ex!!!

LOVE the hair!!!
* We have received more information on our new Daughter!!
Chinese meaning of her name..
Last name: Gou (ease)
First name: Qiu (spring season)
Middle name: Xi (royal seal)
She grows up to be a blessed and beautiful person who has a comfortable life.

Here are a few more stats on our girl...

She hold her head up while lying on the stomach
crawls on hands and knees
Stands alone for a moment
Sits alone quite steadily
Laughs aloud
Active.....(oh my!)lol
Fond of listening to music..(Cody loves that!)
Quick in reaction
Impatient sometimes...(mom can relate!!)
Having a ready smile
Fond of playing games
Distinguishes between acquaintance and stranger’s
Deep sleeper (thank you Lord!!)
Favorite toy is a stuffed toy (I think that's pretty common)

Senior pictures

2007-11-28T21:57:00.001-05:00

Cody's senior pictures are finally here!!

Doll Shopping!!

2007-11-28T21:48:00.001-05:00

We are hoping to hear from our agency any day now about a new referral, so I have once again, started shopping for more dolls.

2007-11-08T23:22:00.001-05:00

Some of you already know of the loss of Cody's friend, Jon yesterday. It has been a trying week and a half for the students and especially Jon's family. Jon was in a golf cart accident on Oct. 29th and has been in a drug induced coma until God called him home around 10:00 am Wed. morning. Jon was blessed by many prayers while he was with us. The students and friends from school kept the faith and held prayer circles daily with most staying at the hospital constantly. Jon was truly a light and blessing to all that knew him and he touched so many lives. He will be deeply missed. I ask that everyone pray for his family that Gods Grace will surround them and give them Peace and Comfort, especially the next few days. To visit his site go to: www.caringbridge.org/visit/jonmetcalf

A Great Halloween Party!

2007-11-02T22:44:00.002-05:00

Ryan had a GREAT time at Reece and Hannah's Halloween Party! Everyone's costume was adorable. They started out playing games and a costume contest before they got dirty. Next was lots of food (pizza and roasting Winnies) hot chocolate and trick-r-treating, I think one of the favorites was the toilet paper roll, which was a lot of toilet paper!! They all took a swing at the piñata, many, many swings, a seed spitting contest and then a little hayride to top off the night! I have to say, Reece and Hannah and of course mom and dad, did a wonderful job again this year!!

2007-11-02T22:43:00.004-05:00

2007-11-02T22:43:00.003-05:00

2007-11-02T22:42:00.001-05:00

Coco dressed for Halloween

2007-11-02T22:40:00.002-05:00

Cody and Ryan in Hilton Head

2007-10-07T19:40:00.002-05:00

Fall Break at Hilton Head

2007-10-07T18:31:00.001-05:00

Ryan's Photography!
Ryan was in charge of taking the photos while Anthony and Cody played golf. He did a great job! Mom did a 'little' shopping. ;)

"Late" race pictures

2007-10-01T21:34:00.002-05:00

Here are some pictures from the Charlotte Race. I am so behind on posting, I'm trying to play catch up! Of course Ryan is a die hard "Ryan Newman" fan!!!

Happy 10th Birthday Ryan!

2007-09-19T12:44:00.002-05:00

New golf clubs...just what we needed, another golfer in the house!!

There were a couple of Petit fours missing... guess who? Ryan! These are Ryan's favorite dessert.

Ryan had a GREAT time with his friends last night at Fun Expedition,(this place is amazing) so did his big brother Cody. If he could just stop texting for one minute! I may have got my wish. Cody was in the batting cage last night and missed a ball at 70 mph, it hit his 'right' hand. We ended up in the ER, but it's not broken, just bruised bad and now he can't move it for a few days due to the bandage. YEAH!!! No Texting!!

A little down time!

2007-09-14T16:41:00.001-05:00

Our Adoption

2007-09-07T08:47:00.000-05:00

We are very sadden to have to write this message. As many of you know, we have been waiting on our LOA and TA so we could travel to pick up Audrey. Two weeks ago we received information that Audrey had become very ill. She has not had very good function in her left arm and the deficits had became more and more apparent. China Care notified the Taiyuan SWI of this, and they asked them to take her for a CAT scan to see if anything would turn up. They did so in Taiyuan and submitted the results to the Taiyuan SWI and they forwarded it on to the CCAA and then our agency.

She had strongly favored her right hand, and does not use her left one at all now. She was also showing a lot of weakness in her left leg and foot. The hospital in Taiyuan has concluded that she has Cp and mental retardation.

We spent several days consulting with doctors and OT's. They concluded the same thing and that it was probably more sever than what they knew. After weighing all of our options, we realized that this was too great for us to continue with her adoption. This has been a very difficult time for Anthony and me, along with both boys.

We feel that God is in control of this situation and we don't question that. We have waited almost 5 months for our LOA and feel sure this was the reason we had not received it yet. I could not have delt with finding these things out after we were in China.

We appreciate all the prayers and beautiful cards from the people who knew what we were going through. She will always be in our hearts and prayers.

Sandy, Anthony , Cody and Ryan

Cody at Chimney Rock

2007-09-07T08:36:00.000-05:00

Happy 17th Birthday , Cody!!!

2007-07-31T17:41:00.001-05:00