I will post more later... but we are all in our pj's watching Christmas shows... we are so loving today and I don't want to miss a minute of it!
Lauryn is where she belongs and our family is complete. xo
Merry Christmas everyone. With love from our house to yours xo
The love of a Nana is like nothing no other.
It's fun all the time, it's special and totally unconditional.
I can't tell you the joy that I get seeing you and Lauryn together.
You have your own rhythm with her. Her face lights up when you walk in the room. She gets so excited that she can barely keep her feet on the ground. Nana was Lauryn's second word! The joy that you get from her makes your face light up too. It's magic! Something that I am looking forward to seeing develop into the kind of relationship that you and I share. Now that I am all grown up, I turn to you for different things. What should I do with Lauryn... or you wouldn't believe what Lauryn did today! You always have the time to listen to me and have gone through all the hoops to help bring Lauryn home. Today and always I hope you know just how special you are to me. Thank you for everything and especially for showing the kind of Nana love that I grew up with.
Happy birthday Mom. We love you xo
6 months ago today the most beautiful baby girl was placed in our arms. She is all ours now. Life has certainly changed and each day we get to watch Lauryn grow, and learn something new. She is an amazing little girl who has captured our hearts from the moment we met.
Lauryn, Mommy and Daddy love you so much! You're our biggest achievement. You have completed our family and you're our dream come true! xo
I think this is just beautiful!
A Pittance of Time
Written by Terry Kelly
Published by Jefter Publishing
They fought and some died for their homeland
They fought and some died now it’s our land
Look at his little child, there’s no fear in her eyes
Could he not show respect for other dads who have died?
Take two minutes, would you mind?
It’s a pittance of time
For the boys and the girls who went over
In peace may they rest, may we never forget why they died.
It’s a pittance of time
God forgive me for wanting to strike him
Give me strength so as not to be like him
My heart pounds in my breast, fingers pressed to my lips
My throat wants to bawl out, my tongue barely resists
But two minutes I will bide
It’s a pittance of time
For the boys and the girls who went over
In peace may they rest, may we never forget why they died.
It’s a pittance of time
Read the letters and poems of the heroes at home
They have casualties, battles, and fears of their own
There’s a price to be paid if you go, if you stay
Freedom is fought for and won in numerous ways
Take two minutes would you mind?
It’s a pittance of time
For the boys and the girls all over
May we never forget our young become vets
At the end of the line it’s a pittance of time
It takes courage to fight in your own war
It takes courage to fight someone else’s war
Our peacekeepers tell of their own living hell
They bring hope to foreign lands that the hatemongers can’t kill.
Take two minutes, would you mind?
It’s a pittance of time
For the boys and the girls who go over
In peacetime our best still don battle dress
And lay their lives on the line.
It’s a pittance of time
In Peace may they rest, lest we forget why they died.
Take a pittance of time
Seriously... could Lauryn be any cuter! This is Lauryn in her Halloween costume. Lovingly made by Grandma T! xo
What a day. First day in a long time that I had to set my alarm.
Lauryn had her trial run at nursery school today! Our day started at 7:00, she was awake when I went into her room, all snugly and warm and still playing with her hair and sucking her lip (the most adorable thing EVER)! She looked so small! So little! We had breakfast and got ready for school! Took some pictures outside with her new Tinkerbell bag. awww.
The drive to school was far to quick and I wasn't ready! It was only going to be an hour... but still!
Got her coat off and inside shoes on. Went over our paperwork and said a very short goodbye. She cried for a bit, no tears, just whined... I left quickly and she was easily distracted!
I went to a near by grocery store to pick up some stuff for dinner. I was hurrying through the cash register got back to the car and I had been gone 18 mins... okay... now what. Got a tea, drove around for what seemed like FOREVER and arrived back at school (5 mins. early) to pick up Lauryn.
The toddler group was playing outside. Lauryn was happy to see me...she gave me a quick hug and then wanted down to play some more. I told her it was time to go home and she LOST her mind... she wanted to stay and play! What a kid.
She absolutely, without a doubt loved every minute of her trial run. 1/2 days on Tuesday and Thursday will be wonderful for Lauryn.
What a kid!
I can't believe it! We toured a nursery school yesterday and Lauryn loved every minute of it! So, we are in the process of another huge step for our little Lauryn. Lauryn will start school next week! OMG! She will go Tuesdays from 8:30-12:00 and Thursdays from 8:30-11:30.
The school is really awesome. Its a happy, warm, fun place! There was music playing when we got there. About 8 kids in the toddler room. They were playing and signing. There are a couple of other children with speech trouble in the class. This is going to be so good for Lauryn!
Lauryn hit it off right away with another little girl. Kyle sat down and Lauryn's new friend brought over a book for Kyle to read. This little girl was obsessed with Kyles shirt and kept touching the sleeves and rubbing his arm! Everytime she did, Lauryn would very calmly remove her hand from Daddy and give her a look. You know the look! LOL! I was busy filling out paperwork. Kyle said it was so funny.
We were there for about 45 mins. I actually got all teary eyed explaining our journey to Lauryn with the ladies who took me on the tour! LOL!
We left just as lunch was being served. They have a cook on staff who makes wonderful meals for the kids. It smelled so good!
We then went to Tim Hortons to celebrate this milestone!
Lauryn will go for an hour again on Friday and then Tuesday will start officially!
I am so excited for her. I know that this is an important part of her growing and can't wait to see her thrive with her/our new schedule!
First day of school! WOW!
I simply can't believe how fast Lauryn is growing up. She is a little girl who grows in leaps and bounds daily. I left her with my Mom and Dad OVERNIGHT for the first time. I can't believe I actually made it through the night. It was funny! I was looking forward to the break and being able to hang out without Mickey Mouse clubhouse in the background. Had dinner with my cousin and then it hit me. I missed her. I mean REALLY missed her. I called home to get the update from Nana and Grampa and all was well. Truth is, she doesn't miss mommy at all when she is there. I was the same with my nana! Well at Nana's she drank from a straw, got her bangs trimmed and learned a new song! OMG! I was totally impressed!
Thanks Nana and Grampa!
Kyle, Lauryn and I are looking at a nursery school tomorrow! The speach therapist recommended that Lauryn be socialized with other children. What we are thinking is two half days a week. 8:30 - 11:30 one day and then again another day a week, but the second day she will stay for lunch. I am so excited about this. I really believe that this will open up a whole new world for Lauryn and she will continue to thrive.
Awww, my little girl... our little angel going off to school. I know it's only 6.5 hours a week... but still it's huge! Kyle and I are so excited, but at the same time... I often wonder where I can buy a bubble to keep her in!
I started her Christmas stocking. I found a kit on ebay and it's ballerina bears! Super cute! I hope my version looks as nice as the one on the front of the package.
lol!
Hope all is well with you and yours.
Wish us luck on the school tour tomorrow!
Keep Happy!
xo
That's me! Today Lauryn did all her flashcards. She recognized all the animals (all but the pig!) and made the right animal sound! Amazing!
Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend.
xo
Wow, just read my post from last year's thanksgiving...
This year I am most thankful for the love and support of my wonderful family. Kyle and I have always been surrounded by support. Through our entire adoption journey, we have been so fortunate for the support of our families.
I hope everyone finds the one thing that they are most thankful for this year, and that you are lucky enough to surround yourself with whatever makes you happiest.
I can't wait to see a highchair at our thanksgiving table.
Hang on Baby Lauryn...not long now.
I am also thankful for my dreams... each night, I see my sweet daughters face. I picture her snuggled down, in footie pj's after a bath between Kyle and I in our bed. Johnson and Peanut at the foot of our bed (clearly, we will need a bigger bed when this becomes reality!) and we all get cozy and tickle her tummy, tell her how much we love her, and how we've waited for these nights!
I truly wonder what the next year might bring.
I can't believe it! Everything that we were hoping for has come true. There are so many nights that Lauryn is running around in her footie pj's and Kyle and I watch in aww at our daughter. Our dream come true!
There will be a highchair at our thanksgiving table this year. This chair will hold the world's most precious little angel. This little angel will be surrounded with love and people who care so much for her. She is fitting right into everything that I have grown up with.
This year I am most thankful for the health of our daughter. I am thankful that she is home. She is happy and healthy and has completed our family. I am thankful for my family and friends who have been there and continue to be there.
Again, my hope for all of you is that this holiday weekend finds you surrounded with the love of your family and friends and your children. If your children aren't home yet. Hang in there. There will be. I can promise you that.
We are blessed beyond measure to have our Baby Lauryn home with us.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
xo
To say that we've been busy in an understatement. Our lives are filled with so much that the blog has taken a total back seat. I am not happy about this. I think it's important for Lauryn to have something to read that's all about her, and how she came to be and what her firsts were and what, as a family we have to look forward to! So, I promise to be more diligent.
August in review:
My uncle passed away on August 10. He was far to young and it was a very sad time. His death was sudden, and it made me realize many worries that mothers face with a young child. Not only did I have to coordinate a sitter for Johnson, but we had a child to worry about. Kyle was on a business trip, and there was a bunch of things that all needed to fall into place!
I felt it much to early for Lauryn to attend a funeral. Thankfully, a very good friend of the family was able to watch her with her cousin Reid and I don't even think she realized that Mommy was gone!
At the end of August, Lauryn had her cleft palate repaired. She came through with flying colours. We stayed in the hospital two nights. Since then, every day is a little better. That was the big news in August! Lauryn had arm splints for three weeks. She was a trooper. She figured out how to play, eat and totally didn't let the arm splints get in her way. She is a pretty amazing kid! She was also restricted to a diet of pureed food. We are counting the days until she can have a unrestricted diet!
September in review:
September was spent helping Lauryn recover. She is a determined little girl. We spent some time at the park and Lauryn loves to climb and swing! Her aggression is coming to an end. She sometimes (very rarely) will bite. She sometimes hits, but is quick to follow with a kiss better. Her sleeping habits have improved, but still are not consistant. I took Lauryn to my office to meet the friends who are more like family. We had a great time. She loved the Go train and everybody was so happy to meet her. It is amazing the reaction that Lauryn gets. She's a beauty who loves an audience! We went to my Aunts house and she had a ton of fun playing with Sierrah who is three. They kind of played together, but kind of played around each other. Lauryn is a total copy cat and loves to imitate! She was pretty jealous of the time that I spent with Sierrah and didn't like to share her mommy. We worked through it and I now realize the importance of Lauryn spending time with other kids. It's crucial for her! She learns so quickly from other children. With Lauryn in arm splints for most of September, we really established our home time routine. It was nice to be with her at home and get a regular schedule!
Lauryn had her first speech therapy session yesterday! The Therapist, Melissa was impressed with Lauryns understanding. The way that she can follow direction. We can speak to Lauryn in sentences. Things like - Sit on your bum, take your shoes off and put them away. Lauryn will happily do the tasks. What we need to work on is her communication. She will readily immitate anything, we now need for her to vocalize this. We have been teaching Lauryn sign language. Very basic. Kyle and I are by no means fluent! However, the words that Lauryn can sign, help her communicate her needs. Now we need to introduce the words to make sure that Lauryn is also verbalizing these things. Its an important step in her development and one that I am trying my best to find overwhelming! Kyle and I both want so badly to give Lauryn everything. What parents don't! However, Lauryn will learn at her own pace with us providing a consistant routine that will allow her to reach her own potential! Right? lol!
So... there you have it. This is what we've been up to!
I still find it hard to believe that she is ours. The love that we feel in watching her grow and how our family dynamics have changed is pretty incredible.
A blogging friend of mine and her husband leave tomorrow for China! Wishing them all the love and luck in the world. It's an incredible journey! Safe travels.
Keep Happy!
xo
L - Loving every hug and kiss!
A - Always keeps me on my toes!
U - Unbelievable that shes all ours!
R - Really? I'm a mom to a beautiful two year old?
Y - Yawn... yep, ready for bed before she is...again!
N - Nothing beats waking up to hear her giggle!
What a great day we all had today. It was non stop celebration today. Today Lauryn turned two. It was just us, Daddy, Johnson and Peanut, and it was a great day.
We had a family party for Lauryn on Saturday. It was simple, fun and the perfect afternoon. We had ice cream, cake and lemonade and Lauryn had a ball! We were at a playground by the lake for a good portion of the afternoon and I don't think I saw Lauryn more than 5 mins. Our families and friends have taken so strongly to Lauryn that every chance they get the are just lovin her! It's awesome! We can't remember what life was like without her. I can't imagine what we did with all our time!
Thanks to everyone who was able to come and join us in the park! We had a great day.
To our little lady,
Words can't describe how you've changed our lives! Mommy and Daddy are so pleased that you are home safe and sound and are thriving. We love to watch you play and laugh and learn each day.
Don't know who is responsible for us meeting, but we both feel blessed beyond measure to finally call you our daughter. You are everything that we've hoped for. Our dream come true. Each day gets better and everyday we love you more. You have completed our world and have added so much love to our lives.
Happy 2nd birthday to our little lady! We love you so much!
xo
Well I have slowly come to realize that this blog is becoming low on the things to do list. I hope that this will change and slowly but surely things have been returning to a new normal.
Lauryn is a bright eyed spunky girl with a quick smile who has warmed our entire house. She is clever, funny and ... pretty much perfect! The last month has taught us all a lot about ourselves and our girl!
Canada Day was a huge success. Our neighbours had fireworks and Lauryn was sleeping... Kyle and I ( well, I!!!) woke her up to celebrate. She wasn't sure what to think at first, and then she was ooooohhhing and awwwing and WOWing... pretty cute!
She loves to swim. Daddy bought her a pool that she is in almost everyday. The problem is, you can't get her out!
She is a great eater and will try anything once!
Johnson and Lauryn our becoming fast friends. Johnson loves to greet her in the morning with a big kiss and she doesn't mind at all. I am not sure who drools more!
We had our appointments at sick kids. Lauryn's palate will be repaired in September. Although I can't imagine how heart breaking this will be, we all know it's a necessary procedure to correct her speech. She has come a long way and we couldn't be more proud. Bedtime is still an issue. She doesn't like to be in her crib by herself. We stay in her room with her for a bit and then slowly try to make our exit... fireworks aren't helpful! LOL!
The summer to date has been very good. We have had a lot of family and friends stop by. Lauryn will be two on July 12, so we are busy planning her birthday party! We will do it in a park with cake, ice cream and lemonade. Something simple and good old fun. She has a room full of toys, and plays with certain things a lot! We keep some toys in our family room that our her current favourites and just keep renewing the stash! We put some away and bring some new ones downstairs. This has worked really well! Kyle's Mom bought Lauryn an electric jeep for her birthday! Can you believe it! She saw it last weekend and thought it was pretty cool! We will bring it home with us after her party!
Other breaking news... My parents bought Lauryn a potty and guess what... she peed! This was a total coincidence and my Mom says she was totally surprised when she actually did it. Too funny!
This week will be spent trying to make a 2 year olds birthday cake and party a success! Wish us luck!
Keep Happy... our hearts have never been more full!
xo
We are home! We love being home! We love our home! We love our home! There is no place like home!
After an amazing adventure we are settling into our new life. Lauryn is a blessing beyond measure.
The airport was great! We had many family and friends who travelled a great distance to celebrate with us. Lauryn was all smiles and had a great time meeting her new family! Thanks so much for being there! It made coming home that much more special.
Our first Saturday home, I got a call from a dear friend who told me to get the paper outside my door!?! I did and there was a message to look at page B5. There it was... Lauryn's adoption notice! Awww! I can't tell you how special that was! Thanks SOO much for everything. You guys are just amazing.
My parents had stocked our cupboards and fridge with every necessity and indulgence that we needed. I didn't sleep at all the first night.
Lauryn has visited with many friends and family and there is still so many more to meet. She is doing fantastic! Everyday we notice much more about her as she discovers the world around her.
Sorry it's taken so long to post, there has just been so many things to do!
I promise to be more diligent! LOL!
Nap time is coming to an end. Gotta run.
But first... Thanks to everyone for making our home coming special. Thanks to my parents who have gone above and beyond! Thanks to Kyle's mom for the cars are the airport... they were and still are a hit. Thanks to Kyle's sister Auntie K for dinner on Saturday... we missed Swiss chalet! thanks to Auntie S for putting the wine in the freezer. Thanks to Uncle T and Aunt J for driving our luggage home. Thanks to Auntie D and Auntie S for coming to the airport and hanging helping with the car seat lol! Thanks to cousin Claire and her parents for being extra helpful at the airport with Lauryn! Thanks to Auntie A and N for a nice home coming dinner and cousin Declan and Alister for the play date! Thanks to Auntie N and Uncle D and Mom for the birth notice. Thanks to Gramma for having the kleenex ready! Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes. Telephone calls and emails have been coming at a rapid pace. We love you all and are so happy to be sharing the home coming of our little angel with you.
We have another shower tomorrow in Burlington. Can't wait to introduce Lauryn to these fine friends who are more like family!
Such a wonderful feeling!
Also thanks to our travel group! We met some amazing people! Looking forward to catching up with them soon.
Keep Happy!
xo
Just had a quick note from the Thomson family to let us all know that everything is great and they can't wait to be home. The past couple of days have been very busy doing 'touristy' things with the other families. By the time they get back to the hotel, the business centre is closed so they have been unable to email and update us in detail.
Looking forward to their arrival on Thursday - Air Canada / Terminal 1 at 6:45pm.
Signed, a very proud, excited, anxious Nana!
Good afternoon,
We had a very relaxing day.
Lauryn loves to feed herself! She ate very well today at breakfast.
We just finished up our paperwork and took our group photos.
We are going to go give Lauryn some lunch and then we are off to walmart!
Should be interesting.
Just a quick post for now.
I will write more tomorrow.
With lots of love.
The Thomson's xo
Good evening from China.
What a day.
Lauryn had a wonderful day today. She is giggling a lot! She is making faces and having a great old time.
We had breakfast and boarded the bus for a very busy day. We have two guides in Beijing. Fay and Vivean. They are wonderful girls. They explained so much about the city today. Beijings traffic is so heavy that there are still restrictions on who can drive when. The weekends, everyone can drive. However, during the week it's restricted. Monday people's license plates starting with one and ending with 8 are allowed to drive, Tuesday 2 and 7.... and so on. Can you imagine?
We started our day in a major traffic jam. No surprise! Then we headed to the Jade factory! WOW! it's just beautiful. I guess there is a time honoured tradition to choose a piece of Jade for your child. Kyle and I chose a laughing Budda for Lauryn. Wow! It was pretty special. We got to do some shopping and got some great stuff.
We then headed to the great wall. This is the only thing that I wanted to see. I was in awe. It's so big. The stairs are so steep and the walk was incredible. Poor Kyle had Lauryn strapped to him. The faster he moved, the more behind I got! Poor guy. I gave him a hard time for walking so far ahead! LOL! Guess I forget that he has a little weight... dead weight strapped to him!
We were at the great wall for about two hours. On our way back down, this woman came out of no where and started kissing lauryn, then they made us pose for pictures! They all had to take turns with us. It was hysterical! They love Lauryn. Lauryn was only to happy to participate! Cutie!
It was really very cool, and a sight that I will never forget. We took a ton of pics!
Back on the bus and headed to the friendship store for lunch. I am pleased to report that lunch was crazy good. We had vegetables... believe it or not, I have missed broccoli and carrots and just good plain food! It was great. Lauryn cracked us up. She had a piece of broccoli in one had and a french fry in the other. After lunch we headed to the friendship store basement and there was more shopping. LOTS and LOTS. They actually have chinese prices and white prices... go figure!
Boarded the bus again and went to the olympic grounds. Glad to have had the chance to see it. Kyle got off the bus, and Lauryn and I just stayed put. It was very hot and she was comfy and playing with an empty bottle. Kyle came back with a gold medal! His first bardering (sp??) experience and he won! 10 yuan! The vendor wanted 25! LOL!
Finally back at the hotel. Kyle is upstairs with Lauryn and she is happily playing with her stacking cups and Elmo cell phone. Kyle and I are exhausted and both have a cold. She couldn't be happier with all her toys and just playing.
When I was done emailing yesterday I went back to the room and all of Lauryn's toys were all picked up. I thanked Kyle and he said that Lauryn did it. Sure enough she cleaned up all her toys and put them in the garbage can. I guess at the orphanage everyone had a job... they must of had bins to store their toys. To cute.
We gave her a bath yesterday and she sat down in the tub and giggled and splashed and put her face in the water. She is really starting to come into her own. She screamed when it was time to get out. ahhh.
I have been giving her a massage with baby cream after her bath. SHE LOVES IT! She was cooing and saying mama when I did it last night! Enough to make you melt!
Alright. All for now. Love you all, and we will talk to everyone soon.
Hope to get a chance to send more pictures soon.
Tomorrow is paper work finale! Busy morning and then just a hang out day. The group can go to the zoo, but we have decided to just have a hang out day. So looking forward to it!
Love to you from us!
Miss you xo
Well here we are at the close of another day!
We are safely back in Beijing and couldn't be happier. The room that we have is MUCH nicer and MUCH MUCH bigger! It is so strange for Kyle and I to have Lauryn. It's certainly not about us anymore!
We had breakfast today and LAuryn did better than ever. She has finally learned to take bites and has stopped with the hoarding. Unless of course it's something she really likes! She had pizza for the first time tonight and was pretty happy with herself. She still has some tantrums, but this is to be expected. She is really happy and VERY busy! The gleam in her eye means trouble FOR SURE! Kyle told her today that she just keeps getting cuter and it's true.
Boarded the bus around for the Guangzhou airport today around 8:15 and headed to the airport. Lauryn sat with Daddy for most of this trip. Not sure who was more happy about this!
Got to the airport and passed through security. Said goodbye to our wonderful guide Ava. She was really wonderful!
It was kind of sad to leave behind everything that Lauryn knows. However, we are excited to bring her with us as we are that much closer to home!
Lauryn did great on the flight. She was a bit uncertain about some of the noises that the plane makes. She had a sucker for take off and thought that was just great!
She fell asleep on me, and had a hard time getting totally comfortable. The plane had a lot of empty seats and we were able to spread out. She slept for about an hour and tweny minutes. She woke up happy, but in desperate need of a diaper change and was VERY unhappy at the state of the facilities. She didn't like it at all. But, we managed and are much more prepared for the big trip home! LOL! Fingers crossed!
There was a elderly Asian lady sitting behind us. Every noise that Lauryn made, she would peak around the seat to make sure I was tending to her. At first I thought this was kinda weird, then it was endearing. People are so interested in our little family. Especially the locals. After sitting for so long. Lauryn was totally ready to stretch her legs. Kyle went to gather our luggage and Lauryn and I walked around. She stops people dead... lots of airport workers would stop and talk. Everyone thinks she is a little boy despite my efforts in trying to dress her in as much pink as possible. A waitress told me that the Chinese believe that if a little girl looks like a little boy when they are young, they will grow up to be very beautiful women!?!
Boarded another van/bus and headed to the place where our journey began... Beijing. Our room is so much better. We actually laid all of the toys we bought for Lauryn out on a blanket and she ran around happier than ever. She loves to explore. She was thrilled with Kyle's empty coke bottle... just like Johnson was when we brough him home! LOL!
Kyle went to get some essentials and brought us Pizza Hut for dinner.
All is well.
Super excited, tomorrow we go to the Great Wall! How incredible. Can't wait to see everyone with their babies! Our whole travel group is together tomorrow. Should be interesting.
Lauryn discovered that she can walk on her tippy toes today. She also shakes her head for "NO" and giggles like crazy when we tell her no! Oh oh!
She has started to imitate my cough too! Crazy kid!
Feeling much more relaxed today.
Kyle said that it's interesting to him, when we carry Lauryn, she doesn't hand on anymore... I guess this is a trust thing.
She has also discovered her tongue!!! She has a tongue like Gene Simmons! Long and pointy! To funny!
We send our love to all of you and can't wait to introduce our crazy kid to you all!
Night night!
xo
Day Four...
This was a trying day. Lauryn is a very busy little girl. There is so much that is so brand new to her that she is taking everything in stride. She started some new behaviours today that really tested both Kyle and I. She was hitting, throwing things, and if something was taken away from her she would start to cry... big big tears, if we'd give it back to her... all was well. Tears stopped instantly! hmmmm... She also bit my t-shirt. I am sure she is just as frustrated with us. We both sometimes think that she is trying so hard to tell us something. She tried McDonalds french fries for the first time and LOVED THEM! I mean love them! She tried ice cream too. Not a big fan! I think because her palate is also affected, she gets instant brain freeze. Not sure she had ever had something so cold in her little mouth. Bedtime was difficult. We went to the passport office. Lauryn fell asleep and wasn't too happy to be woken up to get her picture taken. It went okay. The security people thought it was hysterical! I had my first mommy meltdown! Everything is just so different here. Kyle worked on both of us and then went to get a well deserved massage. Went for authentic Thai food...again VERY different. I am such a Canadian.... I had rice, and fried pork! LOL! Kyle is much more adventurous... he tried everything! So proud of him!
Day Five - MUCH BETTER DAY
Lauryn got up at 3 this morning and cried for the first time in the morning. Got her up and out of her crib, changed her and we just cuddled. She adores her stacking cups. She played with them and woke Kyle up! She went back to sleep around 4:30 and I got ready for the day.
Today we went to the Guangzhou Safari! What a day!
Our hired car and guide met us in the lobby at 8:00.
Lauryn was happy after breakfast for a bit. She was pretty tired, so a little grumpy. Kyle and I have both decided that we need to push her a little to experience everything with us. She needs to know that no matter where we are, we are her safety. We will keep her safe.
We got to the park (kinda of like Toronto Zoo) around 8:50... the gates didn't open until 9:15. It was hotter then hot... 38 degrees at 9:00 in the morning! We looked around the gift shop. didn't buy anything but water! Lauryn is pretty freaked out buy stuffed animals! I am sure this will change. Her first meeting with Johnson and Peanut should be interesting!
Got in the gates and rented a stroller. Which Lauryn LOVED. Not sure if she has ever been in one before, but it was a hit!
We saw all kinds of animals. They had a animal kindergarden. It was increadible. Baby tigers and bears, monkey, deer... they were so cute. You can get so close to them it's pretty amazing! Lauryn thought this was great! She just was all eyes and kept pointing and giggling.
You can feed alot of the animals too. For 10 yuan, you can buy a bunch of leave and feed Giraffes! It was amazing. Probably my favourite part. We also fed a bunch of banana's to a baby elephant... The animals are very well looked after. Especially the tigers and the panadas. After walking around, we took a train around another part of the park - this part is like African Lion Safari. IT was pretty neat. Lauryn tried very hard to fall asleep and was successful for the last 10 mins! Poor girl! They were amazing to see. Nice park and we all had a good day.
We got back to the hotel, Lauryn fell asleep in the car and was a tired, hot, grumpy girl when we got back to our room she had her meltdown! This time she was kicking and crying... am I a bad mom? I kinda thought it was funny! She did the cutest thing ever today. I have mentioned that she likes to imitate things. Well, after I fed her, I was giving her kisses and telling her... Lauryn Kisses... she put her sweet little mouth in an "o" shape and leaned in towards my face and then giggled...ahhhh enough to make me cry... The she threw herself on her tummy and fell asleep. Kyle left to go and try and find shoes... Kyle wasn't successful. Everything was too small! Imagine if I went looking! YIKES! Kyle got back to the hotel and I left to send this email. Lauryn is still sleeping.
We are going AMERICAN for dinner tonight. There is an Italian restuarant that we can walk too. Very excited about this!
We leave Guangzhou tomorrow morning at 8:30. Our flight is at 11:00 and then we go back to Beijing to meet the rest of our group and their children. We are so excited to see everyone with their kids, and to show off our beautiful girl! she is pretty amazing.
I will update more when I can.
With lots of love from this side of the world!
xo
Well, here it is, bed time at day 3. Here is the events of the day.
Thanks Mom for keeping everyone in the loop, please continue to keep Kyle's family updated. He was concerned about this.
How are things at home! We miss home!
DAY 3...
Started at 4 in the morning, Kyle couldn't sleep and I was in and out. Got up when he did. Had a nice long shower and felt great! Lauryn slept until about 6 ish. She woke up with some babble and then started a little cry but nothing to big. Then the smiles started!
We went for breakfast around 6:30. Before we left Lauryn had some oatmeal, a bit of goldfish and some milk. At the restaurant she had some watermelon, a boiled egg and some chinese porridge! She tried some french toast and some apple juice. It was pretty funny... she took a big bite of watermelon and the juice came out her nose! She wasn't sure about apple juice... the first drink made her shiver! Then I watered it down and it was much better.
She had some trouble getting to sleep last night. She is amazed by all the lights and is a big wide eyed girl who stops herself from going to sleep, I think she wants to see more and more and more! Its pretty amazing to see. We both watched her for a long time and then just listened to her little baby sounds.
We had to meet in the lobby for 8:30. Back to the adoption centre! The adoption was finalized today! She is all ours. We met with a notary and another government official. We had about 10 - 12 questions from each of them. Things like Are you happy with this child? Do you want to make this child yours? DUH!! I would love to see someone try to take her away! Kyle is totally in awe of her. I love seeing them together. It really is amazing!
Lauryn got her land legs that's forsure! Her legs are very skinny and not strong at all. Today we put some running shoes on her. The adoption centre is a very big room and she went for it! She ran and walked and exhausted both Kyle and I! Our guide laughed at me! We had to take our first family photo. Something for the orphanage I think... I didn't know that it was our turn, then Ava came to get us and I was a sweaty hot mess! Told her I needed time to fix myself up! She thought that this was hysterical! You should see my hair. It is so humid that the its just crazy... nothing works! Oh well! LOL!
At the adoption centre we had some time to sit and really get to know our girl. She is so smart! She imitates EVERYTHING! She now says mama!!! YUP! She does! And she can wave bye - bye! The nanny told us yesterday to give her soft food. Her palate is effected and hardfood might bother her... not our girl. She will try everything! If she doesn't like it... no big deal she will spit it out!
After everything was finalized, we got back in our van and headed to the Chinese equivalent to walmart... OMG, what an experience. They sell everything there... EVERYTHING and it's all cheap, bad quality. Dawn (the lady that also adopted, and is staying in the same hotel) well, she loves to buy her older daughter shirts from these stores. The english is terrible. The one she bought today said M KOOKS... My Happy Hollida?? What the heck that is suppose to mean, I will never know. Kyle also bought some eggroll flavoured pringles... gross!
We loaded up on diapers, rice cereal and bottled water. I also bought some baby food - fruit mostly. I was worried b/c Lauryn hadn't pooped yet! We toyed with the idea of a stroller. We will be doing a lot of sight seeing in Beijing. Instead we bought a baby carrier.
Got back to the hotel and Lauryn was overtire, hot, hungry and pretty grumpy. She cried big tears for the first time! Then wanted to be held. Tried to settle her down and it eventually worked, but it took both of us! I think we have a lot to learn! But, we did just fine. She napped for about 2 hours. Kyle and I did too!
It was great! Starting to get use to the time change!
When she got up we changed her bum, and she had done what she was suppose to! Kyle said it smelled really bad... this cold I have prevented me from smelling anything. So I got to change her! Lauryn is pretty cranky today! I think the last two days have been totally overwhelming and she is just as tired as we are. I wonder what is going on in her mind! Then Kyle tested out the new baby carrier while I got ready for dinner. Cool!
She was pretty funny. I have some pictures. I think Kyle was pretty pleased with himself. He just adores her!
We met with Dawn, Lynne, Quinnlynne and Lindsay for our first authetic chinese dinner. It wasn't nearly as crazy as a I thought. You order for the table and all the dishes are put on a big lazy suzzane and shared. Well, Lauryn is a messy eater and certainly doesn't like anything being taken away from her. She had a minor melt down. It was pretty funny, we ordered some Teryaki noddles, well we were all pretty useless getting the noodles out of the bowl onto our plates so the restaurant sent over a lady to give us a hand! When we sat down, another waitress came over to ask me if I would like a fork! Then she came back to ask me if I would like a knife! LOL!
After lauryn's minor melt down we went back to the room. We are pretty tired again and Lauryn is cranky! Kyle went out to see if her could find some cold water. There isn't any such thing as cold in China. Everything is luke warm. Well Kyle went for his adventure, I tackled bath time alone...
It went okay... She cried... a lot! However she was standing in the tub holding on to me and wanted to sit down... and then she would cry harder....Got the job done and dressed her and combed her hair. I put baby lotion on her for the first time. She thought that was pretty cool! she giggles at a lot of things. Baby lotion was a hit. She smells fantastic...I can even smell her!
So, I have just come down to the business centre for the update! We all send out love and we are telling Lauryn of all the family she has at home who can't wait to meet her. You guys are going to be over the moon in love.
Tomorrow we get her passport and don't have to meet until 3.
We are going to meet for breakfast and then head to Beijing Street. I guess this is just packed with kids clothes vendors! Should be an interesting day! I will write more tomorrow.
I hope to have some pictures tomorrow too. I working on it!
The 3 of us send out love!
We love you all more then you could ever know or possibly understand! It seems so weird not having our family with us at such a special time! Can't wait to introduce you!
We love you! Sweet dreams... sorry, sweet dreams for us... have a great day to you!
Thanks for everything.
xo
Hi there,
I knew you would be waiting patiently for this email. I am at the business centre in Guangzhou. It has been an unbelievable day. I am exhausted... we both are... so mind the spelling! LOL!
We slept well last night. We both just kinda crashed. Our day started at 4 a.m. Wasn't really too bad because it felt like 4 in the afternoon. We both got ready and waited in the lobby for everyone. We were the first ones downstairs and eager to start our day. We boarded the bus with about 14 other people. We had breakfast on the bus. While we ate Yulin told us what to expect and how to handle our children. She says that they are all different and she doesn't know what to tell us on how they will react. We got to the airport around 6:30. Dawn, her sister Lynne and Dawn's daughter (adopted 5 years ago) Quinnlynne were flying to our province. I can't tell you what a relief it was to have them there. There are sooooo nice! We found a coffee spot and sat and got to know each other. It was so funny. Kyle asked for cream in his coffee... you know what he got... WHIPPED CREAM! LOL! He was a sport about it and said it wasn't too bad!
We played crazy 8's and UNO with Quinnlynne and watched the clock, our plane didn't board until 8:45! We did some shopping. I found chedder goldfish! Kyle bought some crazy pork thing.. gross.. went through security and waited for our plane.
The day seemed to drag and drag. Beijing to Guangzhou is a 3 hour flight... what a crazy flight. I cant tell you how weird it is to be in a place where you are the minority! Landed safely and got off the plane to meet our guide Ava. Now things were getting exciting. We boarded a bus and off to the hotel.
Ava told us we had about 10 mins. We had to get all our papers in order (thankfully ours were already) bring one gift for the nanny, and meet in the lobby. Things were moving so fast. Kyle and I still had to exchange our money. We met in the lobby and Ava wisked us off to the bank of china. It was crazy. They took our passports inspected every bill. over and over again. We left with literally a shopping bag full of yuen. We were 20 mins. away from the adoption centre and needed every minute to count our cash and get them in the right envelope! It was so quick. We left the bus in the middle of a very busy road. Crossed the street. AND THIS WAS IT.
The building is very run down. The room where all the babies were was very bright and comfy. I have seen it online before. Ava came to us and told us that our baby was here! I lost it for a minute. Kyle too, and then we were signing papers and counting money and it was all such a whirlwind.
THEN AVA came back and got Dawn to be introduced to her baby. Her baby's name is Lindsay and the second Lindsay saw Dawn she WAILED... I have never heard a baby cry like that before!
Ava came back and told us it was our turn. Kyle and I were sweaty and teary and shaky and then we saw her. My tears stopped immediately. Kyle started filiming and it was love at first sight. There was no tears from anyone. She looked at me and hit the chinese doll! LOL! and then I reached for her and she giggled... Mom, she is the most precious thing in the whole world.
She took to us both right away. Her palate is affected. Not a big deal, but it was nice to see her. She was clean and just beautiful. She was weraring little flower sandals, a white t-shirt and pink short overalls. Adorable. We played for a long time while our paper work was reviewed. We got to speak to her nanny, not the lady in the picture. We were there for probably an hour or so. She has since reached for both Kyle and I. Time to get back on the bus. She was all eyes. She is very alert and loves to look around. She also loves goldfish! Back at the hotel we did our first diaper change... we put it on backwards.. we are so tired!
Then Ava came back to do more paperwork. The whole time Lauryn played with her stacking cups!When Ava left I was giving Lauryn more fish and she put like 10 in her mouth... her face got all red and she started to choke! Nothing to serious, but she's a little hoarder! LOL!Very common I guess!
Kyle went to the store to get some juice and water and milk. I was playing with her on the bed, she reached up for me and wanted to be cuddled. I cuddled her and rubbed her back and she fell asleep! Kyle came back and we just stared at her.
She started to stir about 40 mins. later and then started to cry. Very easily settled. She had some mashed banana, rice cereal, half a bun and a strawberry yogurt bar for dinner. We attempted a bath...she was very nervous. Kyle was awesome. He brough her stacking cups in the tub and eventually she sat down. She let us know that enough was enough. We wrapped her in a towel. Put socks on and clean jama's with a clean bum and she is a whole new kid. She adores the blanket that you made her! I left her lying on Kyle's tummy all wrapped up and falling asleep!It has all been very natural. Kyle is a natural and she adores him!
When I was giving her dinner, she kept putting her mouth toward me... I would say No, Lauryn in your hand. She would sit back down and place her hand out... adorable. We both think that she is very smart. She imitates EVERYTHING! No words yet, but she bablles!
You guys are going to be head over heels! I really think she will come off the plane all smiles! Can't wait to come home. So there you go! Day 2 update and all is well!
We are back at the adoption centre tomorrow and then shopping! Should be interesting. Thanks for taking care of the boys! We miss everyone and although this was a crazy life changing day, we both want to come home! LOL!Have a good night... er... morning!
Lots of love to everyone. Have a safe trip home. I will send pictures when I can.
Love ya. xo
Ni Hao!! We made it!
We are safe and sound in our hotel's business center. The Beijing Airport was really big! No air conditioning just big vents in the roof. The people have all been very nice. There was 4 couples on our flight. 2 of them have children with them. One couple adopted their little girl 5 years ago. They are all at the hotel.
Our flight was LONG, but good. We ate really well. Kyle and I both got some sleep and are all caught up on the latest movies. We have to meet our group at 5:15 AM in the lobby, our flight for Guangzhou leaves at 9, I think! We have all our documents and are ready to go and get our girl. We are really tired, but super excited.
Beijing traffic is like something out of a movie. Its so busy and people cut each other off and honk after to say Thanks! Random!It is already dark out and it's really humid. There is a light rain but the temp. is still 35! HOT and Humid! We got the missing travel documents and have done some bag re-organizing and that's about it. We will leave in the morning. Hope we can write more. If not... we will take lots of pictures. We are back at the presidential plaza on Friday. If I can't email from the next hotel, I will get you guys all caught up on Friday! Hope you can wait that long.
Other then a little bitchy, we are very excited! We can't believe it's tomorrow! OMG!
Hope things are well at home. We are already missing the comforts of home.
Give our love to everyone. Please take care of our boys. Hope the fireworks aren't to loud!
Lots of love from half way around the world! We love you very much! Talk to you soon!
One more sleep... well kinda a half sleep!
Love you, have a wonderful night... or morning... or whatever!xo
When another door closes, another one opens!
We are off to bring our girl home!
I can't believe the day has finally come!
This time tomorrow, we will be landing in China!
48 hours away from meeting our daughter!
OMG! My Mom will be posting for me while we are gone.
Stay tuned!
Mommy and Daddy are really close now baby Lauryn!
See you soon!
Keep Happy!
xo
Well, what a weekend. Our family threw us one heck of a party! It was like a Jack and Jill / Shower combo! My Mom should be a party planner. We had a ton of friends and family. Their generosity was overwhelming! Thanks to each and everyone of you for making our weekend so special.
I have said a million times that we have the best family and friends and we are surrounded by such a good support system! This weekend confirmed this once again. Everyone came in a good mood and ready to have a great time. Boy did we!
Thanks to everyone for all of their help and gifts! You are all so appreciated!
Also, today is my last day of work... wow!
I am on vacation for a couple of weeks and then I start parental leave! Wow! I never ever thought that this day would come! I am so excited... kinda of shell shocked too!
Kyle and I have also decided that I will not return to work! Awhile ago, separation packages were offered. I took the opportunity when it presented itself and haven't looked back since. It was always the plan to work closer from home when Lauryn was home.
So, I am mixed with mixed emotions today. I say goodbye to a career that I loved and was rewarding and fulfilling and certainly kept me busy!
I am also saying goodbye to a fabulous group of people that are more like family then friends! I know we will be part of each others lives for a long time!
The next chapter is beginning! I can't believe it.
I feel ready... although nervous and anxious and a bit scared!
We have been waiting for this for so long and now it's right around the corner!
Here we go...
Keep Happy!
xo
To my MOM,
You are my everything. Words can't describe how special you are and how much you mean to me. You've been there for everything. All the heartbreaks, all the ups and downs and still have a way of finding a solution to make things okay. Growing up, you gave me one day for a pity party... then it was back to looking at things positively and counting our blessings. Thanks for holding my hand and making me stronger. Thanks for knowing the right time to let me figure things out on my own. Hope you know how full my heart is, and how wonderful seeing you as a Nana will be. You are so good at being a Mom... I have no doubt that you will be the kind of Nana that my Nana was... we are going to have to take Lauryn aside and prepare her for leaving Nana's house just like you had to do with me.
Thanks Mom! Hope you know how much you mean to us.
Kyle surprised me with a beautiful photo album and a letter from Lauryn! awwww.
This is Lauryn's letter on my Happy Mother's to be day:
Dear Mommy,
Although we have not officially met yet, I feel as though I need to tell you something on this special day. I asked Daddy to help me. I don't know how to write until you teach me!
I am so overwhelmed with joy that I will have you in my life. Through all the good and the bad, the boo-boos and heartaches and all those kind of things that Mommy's make special. I hope you like the gift that Daddy and I decided on. I am looking forward to filling it up with my new family and all the happy times, and special moments that we will share.
We love you.
Love the both of us!
xo
So thoughtful! Thanks to my darling for making this day special. To my girl, Mommy's coming. I can't wait to hold you. You've been in my heart for years... soon you will be in my arms. xo
For all the Mom's who are still waiting. I know the struggle and have come out stronger on the other side. Stay strong and positive your miracle is waiting. It will happen before you know it.
Keep Happy!
Not long now!
xo
Don't you find it funny... when you are waiting for something huge to happen. Some date, or a party, the world just keeps on going... does the world not realize that we leave in like 24 days to pick up our DAUGHTER! Jeesh...
Anyways, it's been awhile since I have had any time to post! Although there isn't much to tell. We hare happily preparing for our trip to China. Kyle and I are both a little freaked out, nervous, excited, scared, overwhelmed and extremely excited!We are surrounded with so much love and support, it's crazy! Some people are truly as excited as we are. Kyle has become MISTER fix it! To know Kyle (and to love Kyle) you need to understand how NOT handy he is. I am not writing anything that he doesn't know to be true! He does not have a "fix it" bone... never has. Over the years I have come to appreciate Kyle's clumsy, spastic attempts at fixing things... that's what the yellow pages are for... right? Well in the last little while, Kyle has fixed a window, changed a VERY high up outdoor light bulb, gotten rid of birds that were building nests in our vents (thankfully no eggs yet!!!) These birds were building nests in our vents from our house to the outside... we could hear them in the walls!!. Kyle has also washed our outside windows, changed the handle on a stubborn toilet that kept running, and CHANGED OUR KITCHEN TAPS! I know! Amazing!Couldn't' get over it.We have had lengthy discussions about Lauryn. She is just so precious. I have organized all her doctors visits for when she is home. I can't wait to get her all set up.One thing that is stressing me out totally is that we are still waiting for her citizenship part one application to be processed. We can't travel without this... makes me nervous. The call centre reps thinks I am nuts! I have called at least 6 times, and have also sent a letter with a copy of our e-tickets as proof we leave on May 22nd. Getting nervous about this one.I am wrapping things up at work. 12 more days until my vacation starts! I will be on vacation for almost 4 weeks... then my parental leave kicks in. YAHOO! Off until Feb. 26! What will I do? So excited about this, you really haven't any idea!This weekend I am locking myself in our spare room, starting to pack and get organized! I am really looking forward to doing all Lauryn's laundry... I wonder if I will feel the same in a year or two! LOL!There you have it folks... all for now.Keep happy!xo
Is not a term you would use to describe me! Kyle maybe...
Just in case you would like to join our countdown...
38 days
or
3,283,200 seconds
or
54,720 minutes
or
912 hours
or
5 weeks (rounded down)
Until Lauryn is in our arms! OMG! We will meet Lauryn on Monday May 24, 2010.
She will be 1 year, 10 months, 12 days old when we meet her.
Kyle and I stare at each other a lot in pure wonderment! I know we certainly aren't the only couple that has gone through this. We are just so proud of us! lol!
Keep Happy!
xo
...GOING TO CHINA!
It happened we got the letter. The magic LOA has arrived. We are finally going to CHINA. That's right folks... up up and away!
The tickets have been purchased, our visa's are being prepared and we are leaving for the far away place that now holds everything dear to us. Our daughter, Lauryn!
We leave on May 22nd! 39 days away! We arrive home on June 3rd.
We are now in the middle of panic, excitement, anxiety, tears of joy and well... panic! I can't believe the day has come and our world as we know it has changed forever!
Lots going on! Wanted to make sure that all that follow our blog were in the loop of Lauryn!
Thanks so much for all the well wishes! We are surrounded with positive, happy, helpful people that we rely on daily!
Is it to early to pack?
Keep Happy
xo
HUGE step for the Thomson's!
Our LID is out of review.
The CCAA has reviewed files up to and including December 21, 2008!
Our LID (logged in date) is August 26, 2008.
Now we are waiting for our LSC (Letter Seeking Confirmation). This is sent to us from CCAA and once we sign it and send it back to the CCAA they will give us a TRAVEL ANNOUNCEMENT!
Hang on to your hat baby Lauryn! Mommy and Daddy are coming!
Wow!
xo
I am all a glow today!
We received our application to fill out baby Lauryn's citizenship papers!
This whole journey is becoming more real by the minute.
I wish I could say we have travel plans... but not yet.
However, we do have citizenship papers, documents to notarize and fee's to pay! For this I am thankful... we are getting there, one paper, one notarized document and one fee at a time!
YAHOO! Bring on baby!
Kepp Happy!
xo
Just a quick post to wish the best Daddy to be a happy birthday.
Kyle’s birthday was on Friday. It’s been such a busy weekend, that there was just no time to write!
You are going to make one incredible Daddy. I can’t wait to witness the
joys that father-hood will bring.
I really think this is your last birthday without her.
All we have been waiting for is right around the corner! So happy to be travelling down
the roads that we are travelling. The world is right when you are by my side.
The world will be perfect when she is between us and we are each able to hold her little hand!
Happy birthday my love! xo
