GOTCHA DAY

Today marks Maddie's 1 year anniversary of her GOTCHA Day. I remember the excitement and the anxiety I felt when we drove to the office in China where we were to meet Maddie for the first time. Getting down and walking into the tiny office with 8 other families - my emotions were bubbling at the surface. The moment we saw her being carried in sleeping by her caregiver - I felt as though I had lost my breath. Although she cried for a while I can remember that first moment later that night where she outstretched her arms for me to hold her.... What an amazing and emotional day this was. That moment changed our lives forever.....

Tonight we had a GOTCHA Day celebration with a GOTCHA Day Cake, a Candle and some delicious chinese food. Maddie was quite excited that the Cake and Candle were for her! Although she does not understand the significance of this day - she one day will. What a history she has and an amazing story that is hers to tell.

This past year has flown by so quickly yet we all feel that Maddie has been with our family forever. I can't remember life without her... We all love her so much!!!!

I am also remembering all of the wonderful families we met during our trip to China that are celebrating their GOTCHA Days today or tomorrow. Happy GOTCHA Day to all of you. Remembering one particular family at this time, hoping that all the good memories fill your days. Praying for your new journey in 2011.

1 year ago

1 year ago we were in Beijing anxiously awaiting the moment when we were able to finally hold our precious daughter in our arms. We had traveled far from home and left our family behind. We met some amazing families who were on similar journeys to their children. We saw some amazing sights in a country that we had never traveled to before.

So much has changed in 1 year. As I am typing this blog entry, Maddie is laying in my bed with her babies getting ready to go to sleep. Sweet!

Good Memories!!!!

1

Final Milestone in our Journey

Yesterday marked the final milestone in this journey called Adoption. We completed our Final Post Placement Visit with our Social Worker. I can't believe it has been almost 1 year since she came into our lives - 2 1/2 years since we began the process. We have crossed many hurdles, faced many challenges, gained friendships, learned many things about ourselves, traveled around the world, grew closer to GOD and increased our faith in Him throughout this amazing journey. I wouldn't trade a moment! We are looking forward to celebrating, in Grand Portie style, Maddie's Gotcha Day on January 24th.

Now to decide if we pursue Adopting another child. Be praying for us as pray and seek God's guidance.

Christmas Day

Christmas was such a blessing. Just having all of my children together to celebrate the birth of our Lord was a joy and warmed my heart. Thinking back to the Christmas of 2009 and the absence of Maddie from our family at that special time only made this 1st year with her that much sweeter. I was truly Happy and Content, unlike I have ever been before.

This Christmas morning was so fun! Maddie was so excited to see what Santa had left for her! The panties left in her stocking drew an excited squeal of delight and a joyful dance. (the little things excite her so much). The new bicycle was also a huge hit. She couldn't wait to ride it. She quickly got the hang of peddling and rode initially in the kitchen around the bar. The next day was a bit warmer so she was able to take it outside and ride it around the neighborhood. WOW can she peddle fast! I have to run to keep up with her. I quickly realized that Santa should have bought a helmet as well.

As of today (1/7/11) Maddie still has 3 presents to open. I guess she will get to them sometime this year.

Lizzy always has such a priceless reaction to her gifts. Squeals and screams of delight accompany every gift she unwraps to admire.

Christopher is a little more understated in his reaction. An under the breath declaration of "yes" and a clenched fist of victory shows how excited he is at his gifts.


The kids enjoyed a wonderful Christmas. After their gifts were all open - I had one final surprise for them - A treasure hunt throughout the house to find their final gift. They each had to solve a riddle and figure out where the next present was hiding. It was great fun watching them run around and find their gifts only to open it and find another riddle to solve. Taylor Swift concert tickets were Lizzy's "Big" gift and Basketball Tickets to the Hornets vs. Lakers were Christopher's surprise gift at the end of the Treasure Hunt.

We are looking forward to a wonderful 2011! I hope Christmas brought each of you and your families peace, love and joy - it did mine!