JOURNEY TO LEILA

It's Time To Go To China again!

2011-03-18T21:30:00.001-05:00

Stay tuned.

Obla Di, Obla Da, Life goes on...

2009-01-09T21:13:00.020-05:00

First, let me say that TODAY (1/9) is our "Gotcha Day"...Leila and I have been together for 3 years now, and I can never thank China enough for giving me this gift. Here she is in her "Gotcha Day" clothes. Believe it or not, the shoes still fit her...but they were big on her to begin with.

So sorry I've been negligent in my posting, but between school, work, and being sick, and having this monstrous house to take care of (I so need a maid), I just don't have time to blog. But I DO have time for pictures. So here's what's been going on since Leila started school.

In October, we welcomed our dear friends, Liz and Jay's, new baby, Alex to the world. He truly is the cutest baby I have ever seen. How good a friend are Liz and JR? Well, they let Leila hold little 5 1/2 pound Alex.
Halloween: I waited until the last minute to get Leila her costume...she can never decide what she wants to be, so I always have to choose for her. I got her a Renaissance Dress, and a Doctor's outfit (they were 50% off by the day of Halloween, so it was like BOGO Free)...she wanted nothing to do with the "dress"...so guess what she was? And her annual traditional pose with Uncle Jay. Alex was only a month old, and far too little to go "Trick or Treating" with us, but I'm sure he'll be out there next year.

Thanksgiving was a feast, and Leila enjoyed helping out in the kitchen this year. She also had a wonderful show at school. See how little she is? She's the littlest one in her class. She needs to have a growth spurt...poor little thing. Oh well, I was never petite and always wanted to be, so she can be petite and tell me what it's like!

We made Brownie's for dessert, and Leila and I enjoyed making this video of Chef Leila. Also of note, you'll see a white dog laying on the floor in the family room, in the background...that is our beloved Aragon, who was 16 years old, and was in congestive heart failure and had chugged along for a year with this fatal disease. She was gently put to sleep right after Thanksgiving. Leila took it all in stride, and since she understands about God and Heaven, she was content that Aragon was up in Heaven with God. Oh, and you'll notice Leila is in an eye patch. Nothing's wrong, it's just that she spent 2 1/2 years in China without glasses, and she has good vision in one eye, and bad vision in the other. So her brain got used to only using the good eye, and now, even with glasses, since her brain has been trained to use only the good eye, it won't use the bad eye. So we've patched her good eye, to force her brain to start using the bad eye. The good news is, she went from 20/100 (with glasses), to 20/70 in just 6 weeks. So she's still in the patch, and will be until the Dr. feels that her vision can't get any better.

Christmas: This year Leila was a BIG help in decorating the tree. She was very proud of her accomplishment. Then of course, her big trip to see Santa and to pose in her Christmas dress (I hate this year's Santa picture, it didn't come out well, at all, but I really didn't notice how bad it was until I got home...so it is, what it is).

And finally, we had professional portraits done at Target...I wasn't too happy with them, so we'll have to go to a "real" professional soon. But, here's a decent shot of me and my little darling (I got this picture off the Target website, and it's low quality, because they want you to buy the pictures, not steal them...and I did buy some of them, just not this one). It was the first time I curled her hair...and I thought it came out really cute.

And yet another milestone...

2008-09-03T21:08:00.007-05:00

WOW...I can't believe it. My baby started Kindergarten today. She was SO excited to be going to the "big" school. Leila often talks about wanting to be bigger, and be an adult...she so quickly wants to wish her childhood away...if only she knew, how much she should cherish this time in her life...so I do my best, to make these memories, as special for her as possible...so when her young life is over, and her adult life begins...she will have these special times to look back on. Don't grow up so fast baby...this innocent time of your life is the best!!!

Another Milestone

2008-08-21T20:29:00.003-05:00

Sorry...we've been soooooooooo busy

2008-07-29T20:33:00.003-05:00

Enjoy this video...a day in the life of our insane, but fun house. She keeps me laughing all the time!!! I love her so much!

Vacation Time

2008-04-28T17:45:00.025-05:00

Well, after over 2 years home...Leila and I finally took a vacation. Since it was our first vacation together...I wasn't sure what to expect, but let me say that it was probably one of the best vacations I ever took, and Leila had a fabulous time too.

We left COLD Virginia, and headed down to WARM and Sunny Florida to stay with our friends, who live in Orlando. We went to Disney World, Epcot, and then spent the rest of the week at the Beach. What was great about it, is we got all the walking and exhausting stuff done first, then spent the rest of the week relaxing at the beach. It really was the perfect vacation.

My friends in Orlando have 2 kids, 11 and 13, and they were wonderful with Leila, and took her on all the dizzy round and round rides, that I would NEVER get on!!! I was totally prepared for Leila to wimp out on going on any rides...but she was amazing and is a Disney Ride Diva!!! Because we stayed at a Disney Resort, we got to stay 3 hours longer at the park, which meant, rides until 2am. My girlfriend asked if Leila would make it that long...and I didn't have a clue...so we rented a stroller, and just played it by ear. At 1am, when my girlfriends kids' had had enough...my little trouper was saying "more rides, more rides". Leila never used the stroller!

We hit Epcot the next day...but we were all still exhausted from the Magic Kingdom the night before...so we kinda dragged through it all...and Leila wasn't overly excited about the rides there...guess she's more of a thrill seeker...and prefers those crazy teacups and the speedway at the Magic Kingdom!!!

Next, we headed to Daytona Beach, and Leila's first sight of the ocean. She was enthralled with it all, and luckily, my girlfriends kids and their friends took Leila off into the water, and let her help them build sandcastles. While I reclined on a beach chair and read a book...perfection!!!

Anyhow...I would say our first vacation together was a huge success...and if I have anything to say about it...we'll be doing it again soon. There's nothing better than having a friend who lives in Orlando, and has a beach house...and 2 built in babysitters!!! HAHAAHAHAHA

And Nicki and Noah...if you read this...you two are the BEST...and did a great job taking care of Leila and entertaining her. You were so very kind, and gentle with her...although Noah is still the "monster"...but she loves you both so very much.

Debbie and Mike...THANK YOU for the hospitality and opening your home to us...we had a great time! Madeline...thanks for the YUMMY dinner on our final night there...Your, from scratch, Caesar salad is TO DIE FOR, and lived up to my memories...thanks for making it for me, upon request!

Now...here are some pictures of our adventures:

Leila's favorite guy!!! She wouldn't pose with Minnie...because she had a dress on, and she was wearing diapers (she was wearing bloomers...but you couldn't tell Leila that)!!!

Her next favorite guy, Goofy.

Pluto...another favorite of Leila's!

Leila and I at Epcot

Leila and Nicki...Nicki is sharing her frozen banana...it looks like Leila didn't like, but she did and ate it all...poor Nicki...Nicki...I owe you one frozen banana!

Leila in China (Epcot)!

My little surfer!

The BEST babysitters!!!

Beach shots of Leila and I together. Thanks to my friend Leiha for taking these pictures. I'm often the picture taker, so there usually aren't too many shots of Leila and I together.

Beautiful Child

2008-02-24T21:31:00.004-05:00

First let me say my apologies for being so lax in my blogging. My little petri dish has been sharing her germs with me, and I've had 4 colds/flus/virus' in a row, since Christmas. I think I definitely need to start eating better. I did start taking vitamins, so this last bout wasn't as bad as the first three.

Anyhow...this post isn't about that...it's about what a beautiful child I have. I honestly wonder, everyday, how I was so blessed to be given this child. She has such a beautiful soul, such a beautiful sense of humor, and such a beautiful love that she shares with me. Everyday I get at least 10 I love you Mommy's from her, and hugs and kisses galore. So the other day, I worried that maybe there was some inner reason she was saying this so much. Maybe she was needing some kind of reassures from me. So I asked her "why do you love me?", and all she could say was "because". So I said to her, well, let me tell you why I love you...you make me smile every day...your sensitivity for me and others, makes me love you...you listen to me when I ask you do to something...you help me so much around the house...and because you are beautiful inside and out. So she says to me, "well, I love you because you take good care of me, you tuck me into bed, and you play with me when I take a bath...you make me laugh, and you are silly...and I love you because you are beautiful inside and out."

She amazes me daily, this joy of my life.

Broadway

2007-12-11T22:39:00.000-05:00

So...it's in my profile...I LOVE broadway shows and can't wait until Leila is old enough to go with me to New York. Until then, I've been taking her to local productions of shows, seeing if I can get her to sit through a whole show. She saw some children's show call "The Boy Who Could Talk To Penquins", and did really well, until the Penquins came out into the audience to play hide and seek, at which point Leila jumped in my lap for protection. But other than that, she sat through the whole thing and enjoyed the show. The next show she went to was a local production of "Cats", she LOVED it, and didn't even mind the Cats running up and down the aisle. She was even dancing in the aisle at curtain call. I'm now trying to find a local Christmas show somewhere to take her to, since she seems to do so well at live shows and enjoys them. But very soon, she'll be seeing the neon lights of Broadway with Mommy, I feel certain.

My Broadway Wall...and this is just about half of my collection, because this was all I could hang without a ladder. Hopefully I can get my friends over soon and get the rest hung.

China Video

2007-12-10T23:23:00.001-05:00

I've been meaning to put this Link up. I did it several months ago, as I was exploring ways to make video's of all the photo's I have and want to organize. I'm also trying to get into digital scrapbooking, and that will be my next project to conquer.

So here's a link to the video I made. I don't think it will be the final video of our China trip...but it works for now.

http://server3.inalbum.com/ia30/show/wantbaby61/

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2007-12-10T21:12:00.000-05:00

So, thanks to Comcrap (and I'm being kind), I've been without internet for several days now. Unfortunately, they're the only game in town, and I'm stuck with them.

Anyhow...on to happier things, we've decorated the tree, and Leila got a letter from Santa Claus, and she's at the top of the "good girl" list!!! Quite honestly, I'm not surprised...I'm an upfront kinda mom, I'd tell ya if she was a "bad" girl...but she isn't...and she never is. She's almost too good, and I worry about what she's going to be like as a teenager...will I be paid back then?!?!? I'm trying to be a "cup is half full" kinda mom, but Leila is just too good to be true sometimes! Alright, alright...I'll stop the whole Kathy Gifford routine!!!

Santa Claus...

2007-12-01T20:16:00.000-05:00

So today, a couple of 2nd's for my girl....second haircut, and second time to sit with Santa. We are very lucky here that we get the "real" Santa in our small burb. I mean really, after you stop looking at the beautiful Leila, look at Santa...it's really him, nothing fake about him at all. I love that he doesn't wear a Santa suit, he's the casual Friday Santa, and I'm a casual Friday kinda gal, so I dig him! He was here last year, so I was happy that he was back. I thought maybe the "real" Santa rotated cities or something...but no, he likes our little city.

We were 3rd in line, and Leila was anxious to spew forth the list of presents she wanted. When she got on his lap, she was going a mile a minute with her list of must have's. When she was done, she came to me and said "Santa didn't give me any presents"...AHHHH, I hadn't thought of that kind of logic in a 4 year old. So I quickly explained to her that he's just taking her order, and he will deliver the presents on Christmas...I hasten to add "if you're a good girl". I swear I'm milking this whole naughty and nice thing!

Anyhow...here she is...waiting for Santa...then finally, he arrives!

I'm a Christmas Freak...

2007-11-27T19:35:00.000-05:00

And I LOVE these video's. With the advent of "You Tube" they are so easy to find now. For the past few years I always had to hunt them down. This is one of my favorites from last year. They won't put up 2007's until the 2nd week in December (and it's supposed to be bigger than last year's), I'm on pins and needles to see what they do this year. Meanwhile, enjoy last years, and as soon as their 2007 one starts going, I'll post it. It's 6 minutes long...but be patient...it's SO worth it. If you'd like to see more, go to their website www.lindsaylights.com.

Holly cow...I found another one...this one has FIREWORKS...all I can say is WOW!

What a difference a year makes...

2007-11-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

It's amazing the changes that take place in a child in a year. You never forget your first's with your child, and they are precious memories, that you never forget. But I've come to find that the second's are just as joyous and amazing. Mainly because your child is just so different each year. How they look is different, and how they react is so different as well. So even the second's are as memorable as the firsts, because your child is just as joyous the second time around as they were the first time, if not more so. Also, Leila's age, and time in this country, makes a big difference, because this time, she understands things so much more. So here are a few firsts...and some seconds.

1st Easter 06

2nd Easter 07

1st Fourth of July 06

2nd Fourth of July 07

1st Birthday (she turned 3) 06

2nd Birthday 07

1st Halloween 06

2nd Halloween 07

1st Christmas 06

2nd Christmas 07

To Be Continued...

It's the simple things...

2007-11-20T21:49:00.000-05:00

Well, it's almost Thanksgiving, and I, once again, have much to be thankful for. First and foremost is my darling daughter Leila. She makes me smile everyday, and the most simplest of things makes her happy. She made the most hideously ugly boat "The Mayflower" at school today. She could not be more proud of this thing...so her joy is my joy, and we proudly display this sculpture as if it belonged in the Louvre. For this boat, and for her, I am most thankful.

Get this...it's 3D hideous

My Little Gymnast

2007-11-17T22:16:00.000-05:00

Well, today we went to Leila's BFF's (or at least until kindergarten) birthday. After consuming plenty of soda and ice cream, and feeling the powerful high that can only be gotten by a 4 year old on sugar, my darling Leila decided to suddenly, out of nowhere, start doing flips off the couch. Guess I might start those gymnastic classes sooner rather than later.I'll give her an 9.5, she stumbled a bit on her landing!

Time to update the blog

2007-11-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

Well...a few friends have been bugging me to update my blog, so that they can watch the little bean grow. It's now been almost 2 years since I brought Leila home, and the changes are AMAZING! You know...I went into my adoption, hoping for the best, but also preparing for the worst, especially considering some of the issues the Leila could have ended up with. Well, she's better than even my best hopes and dreams. She is an Angel sent to me from Heaven, and I have been truly blessed. I often think of the movie "The Sound of Music" when Julie Andrews sings "somewhere in my youth, or childhood, I must have done something good" because that's exactly how I feel...I must have done something good, to get such a wonderful child. "Nothing comes from nothing, nothing ever could".

So here she is, 2 years later.

At the Halloween carnival, up the street from our house. She got to pick what she wanted to wear. She's got a keen sense of style.

Walking home from the Halloween Festival.

Trick or Treating with Uncle Jay
Back from Trick or Treating and hanging with Aunt Kimmy
Going in for her laser surgery. She was a trooper!

The Pledge of Allegiance

I'm ready to come home...

2006-01-17T08:30:00.000-05:00

I'm tired...and I just want to sleep in my own bed, with my own belongings, and I SO desperately want to wear some different clothing. I only packed three outfits, and though the Chinese laundry here is wonderful and cheap...I'm a spoiled American, and I want to wear something different!!! I want to just relax in my recliner, play with my baby in our house, and have her sleep in her own bed.

I've enjoyed my stay here, but it's definately time to go home. The other families that are here with me have been wonderful...I loved meeting them and spending time with them, and I wish we all lived closer to each other. But it is not to be, so we'll keep in touch via email, and share with each other how our children are growing and developing.

I loved spending my entire time here with Kevin and Lisa Seppi, their daughter Mia, and their new daughter Meaghan. Marji, the other single mother here, is just wonderful and encouraging for me, and she was here to pick up her 4th daughter Nora. In the room next to mine is Coni and her husband Keith (I think that's his name, I'm terrible with names), their daughter Jaiden, and their new daughter Jali. Sisters, Heidi and Heather are also here with their new babies, Heidi lives in Midtown Manhattan...my favorite place to visit, and she promises Leila and I can come and stay with them and we can take our babies to Central Park Zoo, the theater, and all the museums. I thank all the CHI families for making this such an enjoyable trip.

And to Leila, my new daughter, who is already a joy in my life...I love you, and I will nuture you and shelter you all the days of our lives.

Tomorrow is our last full day in China, and it's chock full of trips to the Consultates office, so I will spend tomorrow night packing...and that includes the laptop. So I will see you all when I return stateside...I can't wait to touch down on American soil once again!

The Medical Exam

2006-01-16T09:04:00.000-05:00

Well...I knew this was going to be hard...and Leila didn't let me down. What a nightmare. First tho, we go to get her VISA picture taken. Leila has been super clingy for the past two days, and if she isn't in her stroller, then she has to be in my lap. Sitting her the little chair to get her VISA picture done was no fun at all...and now she will have a red faced crying picture on her VISA because nothing anyone did, could make her happy about this event.

Next, onto the medical exam. We head first into ENT. Checking her eyes and ears wasn't too bad, but Leila is like a pit bull, she can clamp down with those teeth and there ain't nothin' gettin' past'em!!! The poor doctor had to pry open her mouth to get a look at her throat.

Next, onto Medical and Surgical...we have to undress the babies, and they do a visual inspection, and check the heart. Because Leila has pigment issues with her skin, another doctor was called in to check on her. Another baby in our group has a similar condition as Leila, only she has no marks on her face, but the marks on her body are much worse...so 3 doctors were called in for her.

Onto weight and height...Leila weighs in at a whopping 22.7 lbs, she's a little peanut. The Seppi's daughter who is 18 months (Leila is 29 months), weighed 22 lbs. Leila's height is 84 centimeters, and I'm too tired to figure out the translation in ft and inches...so you all figure it out. Suffice it to say, she's a little bean!

Next, we headed back to the hotel to do the dreaded paperwork...2 hours of repeticious filling out of forms. Near the end of filling out the paperwork, Connie brought us all the medical exam reports...these are givin to us in a sealed envelope and will be provided to the US Consulate, we will NEVER know the contents of this envelope. This really bugs me, since I paid $500 Yuan to have the medical done. Besides, she's my child now, I should have a right to see what her medical results held. Oh well...what'ya gonna do?!?!?

Tomorrow we're off to the Pearl Market...I'm running out of money fast!!! :) What a spoiled child I'm going to have!

Oh...sorry, no pictures...Marji & Lisa took some beauties of my screaming child being examined, I'll post them when I get them!

Toodles!

When she sleeps, I sleep

2006-01-15T22:22:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone...sorry for no posts for the past couple of days, but I woke up with a sore throat yesterday, and I'm being lazy because I don't want to be sick for our trip home. So when she napped yesteday, so did I.

We went on the River Boat Cruise last night, and we got home at 9:00PM, Leila and I lay down, and BOOM, both of us were out until 7:00AM this morning. I managed to get her into her PJ's, but I didn't put mine on thinking once she's asleep, I'll shower and blog, then go to bed...but, I fell asleep, along with Leila, and I woke up this morning with all my clothes on!!! This mommy business is tiring stuff!

She's becoming much more clingy and not allowing me to be on the computer when she's awake, so she's napping right now (I just took a little nap myself), so I thought I'd write a quick post, and post some pictures, from the cruise. The second picture, with the beautiful lights down the side of it, is our hotel.

Ciao for now my friends!

Blessing a Child

2006-01-13T03:09:00.000-05:00

So today we went to the Six Banyan Temple. It's a beautiful Buddist temple, and I was able to have a Monk perform a blessing on Leila. I also walked up inside the temple...I didn't make it to the top...the stairs were VERY steep, but I made it to the second to last tier...and took some great pictures of Guangdong.

We also went to a high end jade store and I bought Leila a jade necklace for her birthday. I just haven't decided which birthday she'll get it at, probably sweet 16, since I went for the grade A jade, which is the most expensive. I wanted her to have a good piece of jade! Our guide, Connie, is a very modern Chinese woman, who loves her jewelry...so she helped me with the jade and bargaining for a good deal, since I know nothing about jewelry...bargaining on the other hand...I'm pretty good at! :)

I also did some shopping at one of the local stores and got Leila some squeeky shoe's at $4 a pair, and several Chinese dresses at $7 US each. What'a deal!!!

We had lunch at McDonalds, and it was packed. We had to walk up 3 flights of stairs to find a seat, luckily, the attendants at McDonalds carry the strollers and babies up for you!!! Then they take your order at the table, and carry your food up 3 flights of stairs to you!!! What a fun experience!!!

I have to say, I'm really enjoying my stay in China. Aside from the annoyance of all the security here right now...it's very exciting here, and the people are very friendly.

Ramblings...

2006-01-12T17:35:00.000-05:00

So, it's 6:30 am here, and I'm up...and the peanut is still sleeping. She's a good little sleeper (once she gets to sleep)...she's at 9 hours right now, and she had a two hour nap at about 3pm yesterday.

Size...I don't know how much she weighs, I guess I'll find out at the medical exam. But she is tiny. She's almost 29 months old, and 2T clothes are huge on her. I think even 18 months clothes are going to be huge on her. She is not potty trained, and doesn't even show any interest in the toilet...well, that's not exactly true...I did put her on the toilet to see what she'd do...and she screamed bloody murder!

The bath tub terrifies her. I emailed her SWI's yahoo email group (I have corresponded with families from Leila's SWI for several months now), and they say all the babies hate the bath tub at first. Seems that the babies from her SWI never had baths, and were only sponge bathed. But it's not just the bath tub, Leila is terrified of the water, period. While we were at the zoo yesterday there was a pond there...as soon as she saw the water she started freaking out. Anyhow, we've tried the bath twice, and it was pure torture for her...so I'm going to let this go for now, and just sponge bath her. This is a scary time for her, and I'm not going to force anything on her that isn't absolutely necessary. The SWI email group assures me that now that all their babies are home, and more comfortable with them, bath time is one of the most fun times for their babies now.

Shopping here is fun. Doing the conversion in my head...not so fun. For example...last night at the grocery store...I bought, a can of Pringles, 4 cans of diet coke, an apple, a banana, a little container of Vienetta ice cream, and a box of baby cookies. Total, $37 Yuan, or $5 US.

At the big mall the other day I bought Leila the most beautiful little outfit. It's a coat, with a matching jumper dress, and long-sleeved shirt. It was a beautiful set, and just the softest material ever. Very good quality outfit. I know in the states, I would have easily paid about $200 for this outfit...it was on sale for $365 Yuan, or $45 US. I also bought her a couple of pair of really good quality shoes (equivalent to Stride Rites in the US), each pair was $150 Yuan, or $18 US. I also got her the Chinese New Year Barbie (this will be saved as a future birthday gift), for the equivalent of $24 (which really wasn't a big bargin, but I wanted to have it bought in China).

It is my goal, before I leave, to have at least one present from China, for every birthday Leila has until she is an adult. So, what does that mean? It means I need to do more shopping!!! :)

Leila's birthmark...well, people here REALLY do look at her, and even point! But there are some who come up and say she is beautiful. So it's a mixed bag. There was a little American girl playing in the White Swan Playroom, who was very rude about Leila's birthmark, and her mother didn't even repremand her...that pissed me off! You know, if people in this world, would just be a little kinder to each other, maybe everyone wouldn't be at war now, and we wouldn't have to do cosmetic surgery on babies so that they can have a normal life. I will do what needs to be done for Leila so that she can fit in, and not be teased. Children will tease no matter what, and I don't want it to be worse for her just because she has a birthmark. But honestly, I think Leila is beautiful as she is, and it's too bad that uniqueness has no beauty to it, onlt deformity. Pretty soon we're all going to look alike...what will the world be like then?

Fort Knox & A Funny Baby!

2006-01-12T08:20:00.000-05:00

OY...now I'm sorry we didn't move. It's like Fort Knox around here. Earlier, I couldn't even leave the building to go have dinner because I didn't have a special pass. I go to the front desk and they tell me my guide should have given me a special pass. The Seppi's called Connie, and she called the front desk and took care of it. Connie to the rescue once again!

So I decided to just go to the deli next door (it's attached to the hotel, but you have to enter from the outside). Something must have been going on in there because as soon as I got to the door, they locked them, and the police ran over to keep me from entering. He wanted to know what I was doing there. I told them I just wanted some food. He made me move away and wait. A waitress came out of the deli and asked me what I wanted. I said I don't know, do you have a menu, she said no, just tell me what you want. I said, I don't know what you have. So basically, I left.

I finally decided to just go up to the grocery store and buy us something for dinner. So another night of grits for Leila, but I got her some fruit from the store, which she loved, and I bought us a little ice cream. Oh yeah...she LOVED the ice cream!

Then I come back to the hotel, and there are about 50 people (airline crew) checking in. They all have at least 2 bags...every bag must go through x-ray, and we all must walk through metal detectors. At least 40 cops all around us...it took me at least 20 minutes to get inside. So you know what...I'd have rather moved than have to put up with this for 3 days.

Oh, and you don't get to keep your pass. The hotel staff gives it to you outside, then once you get inside the hotel they take it away...so you have to get checked and passed everytime you leave and enter the hotel.

But Leila and I overcame all this frustration...I, by taking video and pictures of her walking around the room in my shoes. Then she decided she wanted to comb her hair. Then she decided she wanted to be a goober. She's a riot!!!

So guess what...

2006-01-12T02:28:00.000-05:00

We didn't move. I don't know how Connie did it, but the Seppi's and I are still at the White Swan Hotel. There are few of us left here in the hotel, most of the other families were moved to The Victory and The Garden. The Seppi's did have to change their room, but they are now on the 9th floor with me...just a few doors down...so that's nice! We had Danny's Bagels deliver us lunch, and we ate in their new room. When Lisa said on the CHI email list that they would adopt me while I was here, they weren't kidding. They have been so very helpful to me...bringing me dinner last night, calling me to ask me if I need anything from the store, because they're going there. Just the nicest family...I couldn't have asked to share this experience with better people.

So, back to the hotel...Lisa informed me that we must keep ID on us at all times, and that if we leave the hotel, they won't let us back in without ID. Also, the metal detectors are going up...all cars parked across the street have been replaced with Police vehicles, and I just saw a man with the long handled mirror thingy...you know...that mirror that they use to look at the underneath of cars. So, here are some pictures, taken from my hotel window, of the police cars, and the police on the corner with their tidy uniforms and white hats.

Our Trip to the Zoo

2006-01-12T02:07:00.000-05:00

Was uneventful. Leila was scared of most of the animals, so there are no pictures of her for this round. I was able to snap a few shots of just the animals, but if I got too close with the stroller, she would start to cry. I fed some goats, trying to show her that animals are okay, but she wasn't having any of it. Oh well...the animal lover in me is going to change that.

The Palm Tree picture is for you Ma (notice the loverly air pollution). The elephant is the tallest, and skinniest elephant I've ever seen. The other elephants were big ol' fat things...so I think this guy just has a fast metabolism, because there was no lack of food there for them. The monkeys were kinda cool, and the Panda made me sad, and here's a picture of the baby goat I fed.

Leila didn't seem to mind the dogs though...yes, I said dogs...they actually have dogs, in cages, at the zoo. They were little pomeranians. I didn't take their picture, because I was a little upset about dogs being in a zoo. I know I'm in a different culture right now, and I respect that culture, but I didn't want a picture of it. Now don't get me wrong...the dogs had adequate food and shelter, and I was able to reach over and pet them, which many people do. So they don't lack for personal attention from zoo goers.

Overall, I wasn't happy with the zoo and the conditions the animals are kept in. Especially the Panda...one of the symbols of China. But I know that in America, there are many cities that maintain zoo's probably in the same condition, so I know it's not just a China thing.

To say the least, it will be interesting to see what happens when Leila gets home and finds out she has two dogs!!! This will be quite an adventure!!!

Last Blog before we move to the new Hotel

2006-01-11T19:16:00.000-05:00

So, we have not left the room since we got back yesterday after the big meltdown. Breakfast comes with our room, so every morning we get up and head down to the breakfast buffett, which is delicious. But this morning, Leila did not want to go out. Last night for dinner she had grits and crackers...YUM! I had McDonalds...the Seppi's were kind enough to bring me lunch, which I ate for dinner. McDonalds here taste just like home...the ketchup they use is a little sweeter and less vinegary than ours, but that's about it.

Anyhow...Leila loves the grits, so she had them for breakfast this morning. But she wanted to feed herself. So here she is, my big girl, feeding herself. Notice the full bowl, then the empty bowl. Then notice her white shirt (I didn't bring any bibs)...still white...hey...I'm impressed!!! Also, notice the spoon...I can't tell if she's going to be right handed or left handed!?!?! Maybe she'll be ambidexterous like me...that would be cool!!!

Christy...if you're reading this...Leila loves her Hello Kitty spoon and bowl!!! Thanks!!!

The Big Meltdown

2006-01-11T03:25:00.000-05:00

Okay...so I knew these past few days had just been too easy. I knew the "big meltdown" was coming...I didn't know when it would happen, but I just knew it would.

First, we had breakfast, then went for a walk in the park. This time I took my camera and was able to snap a picture of all the Tai Chi, and dancing that goes on. This is only a smattering of the amount of people that are actually in this big park.

Next, I put Leila's coat hood up...I think she's supposed to look like a bunny. This is the coat from the outfit she was brought to me in. It's a beautiful outfit, and I know I will keep it for her forever.

Next, Connie took me and the Seppi's to the BIG department store. They are starting to decorate for the Chinese New Year so the lanterns were hanging everywhere. In this picture, Lisa is taking a picture of Kevin and their children. That's Lisa behind the camera. The tall guy to the right is Kevin, and to his right is Connie.

Then, the big meltdown occured. Leila just lost it. Honestly, I don't think she's feeling well, she has a cold, and I think gas. So combine the two and she just wasn't a happy camper today. We were out for a couple of hours shopping. Luckily, Connie consoled her in Chinese. Sometimes it comforts Leila to hear her own language, and Connie is able to work wonders in those circumstances. But as the day progressed, nothing could console Leila, not even Connie. The poor Seppi family stuck in the van with a screaming toddler! Although with 7 kids, I'm sure this didn't phase them at all. Meanwhile, I start crying because I feel so helpless that I can't console her in any way. Now Connie is conforting me, and telling me not to worry, this is normal for adopted children, just let her cry. But when we got back to the hotel we went right to the doctors office. They wanted to sedate her, but I wouldn't let them. So they gave me some benedryl and tea to calm her.

Once we got back to the hotel room, she was fine. It was as if nothing had happened. She was all "happy baby" again. I gave her the benedryl, but she didn't want the tea. Then she found a new toy...the remote for the TV. She uses it like a phone, and talks into it. I don't know what she saying, it's Chinese baby babble...even if she was speaking English I wouldn't know what she was saying!

Anyhow...I knew she had to be emotionally drained, so I put her down for a nap. She really fights going to sleep...so I just had to throw her in the crib, and go into the bathroom and close the door, and leave her alone...if I'm there, she won't go to sleep. I hate leaving her, but so far, it's the only thing that works.

So we leave the hotel tomorrow at 1PM. Rumor has it the President of North Korea will be here..Kim Young Ill...or something like that...neither the Seppi's nor I could remember the correct name. We're going to a hotel up the street only, 4 stars....hrmmph!!! I can't believe we have to give up our 5 star accomodations for "him"! Oh well...I actually find the whole situation fascinating, and love to see politics in action. Must be because I live in the DC area, and it's a rather common and interesting topic around the towns that I live and work in. What I'm really wondering is if everyone has to leave the hotel, even the Chinese Nationals that are here, or if it's only the American's and European's that have to leave?!?!?!?

Well, Leila's napping, so I have time to post. It's almost 5:00pm, I don't think I'm going to let her sleep long or I'm sure bedtime will be a nightmare! So talk to you later!

Breakfast Adventures

2006-01-10T19:33:00.000-05:00

Okay...it's official...she's a goofball!!!

More Adventures in China

2006-01-10T17:18:00.000-05:00

So...it's about 5am here in China, and I just checked my email. Seems like we have to leave our hotel and move to another one for the weekend. The Chinese Goverment has requisitioned the hotel for a meeting...which in this country mean...get everyone out! An inconvenience, yes, but also kind of exciting to see the politics of another nation, and the power that it can wield. Imean, this is a LARGE hotel, and believe me, there are A LOT of people here right now. I can't imagine the work involved in relocating hundreds of people, because the government wants your building for a meeting.

Anyhow...I'll let you all know how that goes. Hopefully we'll have internet access at the new hotel...but either way, we're supposed to move back here after the weekend, and I'll update once we get back.

Meanwhile...here are more pictures...and one of them is of the hotel.

It's Official

2006-01-10T15:09:00.000-05:00

Well, it's 3am here, and I'm awake. I did go to sleep at 9:00pm, so I at least got 6 hours sleep, which is about what I got yesterday...it's like my body is saying "okay, 6 hours...you're a mommy now...get used it"!

Okay...so apparently yesterday, I wasn't officially Leila's mommy, just her Guardian. But today, we went back to the CCAA to finalize the paperwork. I have the official Certificate of Adoption. So, according to China, I am her Mommy. Now we just have to get the USA to recognize that, so next we start the round of US Embassy paperwork. Thankfully, Connie, our guide, takes care of a lot of this for us. We do have to be there for all the official signing and swearing in stuff, but Connie knows what she's doing, and really makes this complicated process VERY easy for us.

Not many pictures today, I was very tired, but Kevin Seppi was kind enough to grab my camera for me and take some pictures at the CCAA. This is one of Leila's Nannies. She is a lovely woman, and you can tell they definitely care about these children. The Hyde Family, who adopted a 6 year old (Taryn) from Leila's orphanage (Leizhou), in August, took for me, a teddy bear, camera, and photo album to have the nannies give to Leila for me. Leila came to me with the teddy bear and the camera. Anyhow the Hyde Family asked me to take a photo album to the nannies, so that they could see how Taryn was doing. The nannies were SO happy to see Taryn, and her new family...they just went gaagaa over the pictures and letter that Taryn sent to them...it truly makes them happy to see their children in loving homes and happy!

Oh, and my RBL girlfriends (that's my book club group), will be happy to see that Leila is a booklover. That made mommy very happy, considering I have a TON of books at home for her (most of them courtesy of my RBL gal pals)!

Well, that's if for now...I'm going to see if I can get some more sleep. Today is a free day and Connie is taking us shopping at the big mall!

Camera Flub

2006-01-09T06:13:00.000-05:00

So I just noticed I have the wrong date on my camera. Anyone know how to take those off? Oh well...I'll just crop them out. Gotta turn off the date function on the camera now!!!

GOTCHA

2006-01-09T05:33:00.000-05:00

Well...she's here, and it's official...I am a MOMMY! Connie (our guide), took Kevin and Lisa Seppi, and me, to the CCAA offices to get our children. Lisa and I met online through our Adoption agency email list. The Seppi's are a wonderful family, and were so very helpful to me with Leila. But I have to say...I've only had this child for 3 hours now, but she has been a dream. Right now she is playing with her stacking cups (a Godsend) quite happily. I bought her a $30 Chinese speaking doll that scared her, but the $2.39 stacking cups are her favorite thing. Oh, and the Cherrio's were a huge hit as well!

She had a real quick bath, as she screamed bloody murder for the whole 3 minutes I had her in there. Well...we'll work her into it gradually! Hopefully she'll do better tomorrow. The nannies informed me that she can feed herself, so I let her try, and she actually did a pretty good job, but I finally had to step in to help her finish eating and to quit playing with it.

She's not potty trained (big surprise to me), so I will have to run out and get diapers! Luckily I did bring some pull-ups, so those are working for now.

Well...let me get these first pictures posted, and get off of here so she and I can do a little bonding!

Dances With Swords

2006-01-08T20:36:00.000-05:00

Okay...so I decided to go for a walk, to see what's around the hotel. Right next store is a huge park, right on the Pearl River. Hundreds of people doing Tai Chi, Yoga, and various physical movements to music. Some dance with fans, which is beautiful, and other dance with swords, which was kind of scary, but still beautiful. Many of the people were older, probably in their 60's & 70's. You can tell they take physical fitness very seriously here. I also saw women in high heels, and in their work clothes doing the Tai Chi, getting their workout done before going to work. They don't need gyms here, just go work out in the park.

Then I decide to stroll down other streets, to see what stores are around. Again, more little open area's where people are working out. I also saw people playing badmitten...I wanted to play too! I used to love badmitten in high school!

Anyhow...saw a few nice stores, with some incredibly beautiful clothing. Lots of jade figurines, and incense (which smelled delicious). I didn't buy anything....yet!

I'm in China

2006-01-08T18:51:00.000-05:00

Ni Hao...and good morning! I arrived in China late last night. One of the guides, Jack, picked me up at the airport and drove me to the White Swan Hotel. It is lovely here, but colder than I thought it would be (48 degrees), so I'm glad I brought my coat. They say during the day it will warm up!

I just got back from breakfast (I was up at 5:00am and had to wait until 6:00am to eat), and the food was great. I'm back in my room and got the floor ladies to get me the universal electrical outlets, then I called the business office to hook-up my internet!

At 2:00pm today, Connie (my guide), will come to my room to help me with paperwork, then we leave at 2:30 to go get Leila. 3:00pm is GOTCHA time! I'll post pictures later!

Finally...Something to Blog About!

2005-12-13T20:54:00.000-05:00

TATATATATATATATATATATATATATATA...Just 30 minutes ago, I received Travel Approval from China. I can go and get Leila.

This journey started in March, and will now come to end, as a the new journey of motherhood awaits me.

I'm ecstatic happy, but also a little sick at my stomach...it's REAL now...I'm really going to be responsible for the love, food, shelter, and happiness of another human being. WOW!!!

Leila's suitcase has been packed for almost a month now, so I just have to start packing my stuff now.

I'll be in China the 3rd week of January, right before the Chinese New Year. My Agency tells me the city and The White Swan Hotel will be decorated. So I'll get my beautiful daughter, and a beautiful city to visit. What more could a girl ask for?

I have to say...I couldn't have asked for a more perfect Christmas gift.

Meet...Tai Shan

2005-11-02T19:37:00.000-05:00

Since I can't watch my own little one grow, every day I try and take some time to watch little Tai Shan grow. Tai Shan means "peaceful mountain", and it is the name of the 17 week old Panda at the Washington, DC National Zoo. I watch Mei Xiang nurture her new baby boy, and the gentleness this giant bear has with her teeny tiny baby! Tai Shan is starting to walk now, and he's even chewing on bamboo. I watch these milestones in Tai Shan's new life, until the time comes that I can be a part of my daughters milestones!

Hopefully soon!

Meanwhile, watch mama and baby LIVE (it's a great de-stressor, and so joyous and calming after a hectic day):

http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/default.cfm?cam=LP2

Okay...I better get my TA soon or I'm gonna be broke!

2005-11-01T21:04:00.000-05:00

Did you know that it is possible to go out to lunch, at work, and come back an hour later $2,000 poorer? Yep, I know it can be done, I did it today!

I must say, the bulk of that was spent on a brand new entertainment center for my living room. It's beautiful, and it's taken me 8 months to finally find one I love.

But I also went and spent an outlandish amount of money on two outfits, for Leila, at Janie and Jack. I needed some winter stuff for her anyhow...and this stuff was just too darling, and since I'm depressed about my LID, I decided to make myself feel better, and in the process, buy Baby Bing (Leila) some nice duds!

I'm Depressed

2005-10-24T17:17:00.000-05:00

So today I got the official log in date (LID) of my Dossier - 10/9/05. That means that it sat on someone's desk for 5 weeks with no one even logging it in. If you only knew how much I spent on FedEx and Courier services to get all these documents all across the country to make sure it had all the "official" notaries and authentications, only to have it all end up sitting on a desk in China. On average, most people get their Dossiers logged in within 2 weeks. Because of the delay in logging in my Dossier this almost definately means I won't make it to China before Christmas! I'm very bummed, and had even bought Leila some Christmas gifts already, in hopes that she'd be home for Christmas. It's a very sad day for me!

Oh No...My Nursery is Destroyed!

2005-10-06T22:00:00.000-05:00

Okay...so I'm trying to get so much done to the house before the baby gets here. One of the big things I needed to do was get rid of the polybuteline pipes throughout this house and replace it all with copper. I don't know...cause I'm not a plumber...but I thought they could just run the coppers up through the walls from the basement...HA. Guess that's why I'm a number crunching desk jockey, and not a contractor. Just look at my beloved Nursery ::::sigh:::

You know...I could have gone through life without seeing what was inside my walls! My plumber/contractor assures me that once he re-drywall's, I won't even know there had been a hole there! I'll let you know if he lives up to his word!

DTC

2005-09-03T20:48:00.000-05:00

So it's September 3rd, and my Dossier has been translated into Chinese, and sent off to China. Now more waiting! Everyone says you'll forget all this stress once you hold your baby in your arms. For now, I can only hope this is true, but right now, I'm stressed out to the max!!!

Dossier is ready to go!

2005-08-25T20:45:00.000-05:00

Okay...so after months and months of gathering documents and waiting to get documents from the US government. My Dossier is ready! Gathering all this paperwork is extremely time consuming, and once you get it all together, get everything notarized and authenticated, the entire "original" package has to leave your possession. After spending so much time and energy getting it all together, it's a stressful time while it's in transit to the Adoption Agency. You just hope and pray that it makes it there safely.

But...it's just WONDERFUL that all the paperwork (at least for this portion of the adoption), is complete and ready to go!

My 2nd Shower, Leila's Birthday

2005-08-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

So today is Leila's 2nd Birthday. I'm sad that I can't be with her on such a momentous occasion. But, I was surround by friends, who showered me with gifts for the little princess. It was a wonderful event, with wonderful friends. I got some really great gifts, a lot of Leap Frog stuff, some blankets, books, a lovely table and chairs (toddler size, of course), and rocking horse, and a bunch of other toys.

One of my best friends flew in from Minneapolis, and her daughter, my God-Daughter, flew up from Florida to be at this event. Them being there made it an extra special occassion.

My two closets friends, here in Virginia, hosted the Shower. Liz and Shannan have been great support to me during this process, and they went all out with the wonderful food and decorations.

But what was on my mind the most, was that this would be Leila's last Birthday without a mommy!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVELY LEILA!

A Surprise Shower

2005-08-10T22:25:00.000-05:00

So, I'm partying with my 11 RBL girlfriends at a beautiful beach house on the Jersey Shore for a week. It's probably my last vacation without Leila...well, at least for several years! :)

Ann, Linda, Debee, and I decide to spend the day in Philadelphia doing the whole tourist thang. Had a Philly Cheesesteak (yummy), saw the Liberty Bell, LOVE Park, Chinatown, the Rocky steps, and all the other beautiful and historical sites in the downtown Philadelphia area.

Driving back, Ann, my ever trusty map reader and most proficient guide, proceeds to get us lost. Now, I think nothing of this...this kind of stuff happens, right? No, of course it didn't cross my mind that she somehow got us to the Jersey Shore from Virginia, driving back roads without a hitch...nope...I don't even think about that! So then the girls mention that maybe we should just stop at a grocery store and buy some food for the house...again, I think, sure, let's do that!

So after about an hour, we're back on the road, heading in the right direction. Another hour later we're back at the house. Ann tells me to honk the horn so that the girls will come down and help us unload the groceries from the car. So I do, again, thinking nothing of it!

Well...little did I know...that the horn honking was to let them know we were there. Also, the so-called getting us lost, was also a LIE. Ann and Linda were told not to bring me back to the house until 6pm...hence, the "oops...we should have gotten off at the last stop" comment by Ann, making me think we were lost!

When I walked in the door and there was a shout of "SURPRISE"...I turned and looked behind me, thinking that maybe it was Ann, Linda, or Debee's birthday. Then Michelle came up to me and said "Happy Shower Momma", and put a little Mommy medal around my neck! The waterworks began.

Let me tell you...people just don't get things over on me...I would have sworn I couldn't be surprised...but I was wrong.

Yep...I've got the bestest friends in the world! I'm truly blessed!

PA Received

2005-06-20T20:42:00.000-05:00

Today I got the news that my PA was received. Took 82 days! That's a LONG time, for those of you that aren't familiar with the process. Average wait times for PA is about 25 days.

But at least I have it, one more step in the process completed! Can I hear an AMEN!

The Nursery

2005-06-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

So...I've started on the nursery. Many color scheme's have been running through my mind, and I so wanted to stay away from the "traditional" little girls room. I also wanted to stay away from any commercial theme type of room. But trying to get through all the adoption paperwork, work my day job, work on all the updates and repairs that my house needs, and come up with exciting and creative ideas for a nursery, have forced me to succumb to some type of "theme". I decided on butterflies and hearts as the decoration, and went with the traditional pink.

What do you think?

All the bows are from my shower gifts. I think they're pretty, but of course, I'll be taking them off the crib by the time the baby comes home.

A Break from all the Adoption Paperwork

2005-05-20T20:30:00.000-05:00

Today my God-daughter Jenny got married. It seems like only yesterday she was days old and I was holding her in my arms. I can't believe she's old enough to be married.

But going to her wedding gave me the time to catch up with old friends, and see one of my best friends, Sue, Jenny's mother. I had a wonderful time, and I got a chance to visit Florida again. Jenny got married on the beach. Clearwater Beach is beautiful, and if I ever moved back to Florida, I might just pick Clearwater.

But here's my baby...getting married. I feel so old now!

Final Homestudy Visit

2005-04-30T22:40:00.000-05:00

So today was the last and longest Homestudy visit/interview. All went well, and I also got a chance to read the references that my friends had sent in. You know...you love your close friends, and you know that they love you...but when you see it, written down, it's amazing, the overwhelming sense of love and warmth that you truly feel for them. Honestly, I cried as I read each letter...just floored by the wonderful things my friends said. Like I said...I did know that they felt this way, as I also feel about them, but to see the words written down is a powerful thing. I'm also very blessed that I have not one friend who has turned their back on me during this process. I've had nothing but full support from everyone.

The Lord didn't bless me with a big family, but I was blessed with many wonderful friends! Thank you Lord!

Autobiography

2005-04-28T22:37:00.000-05:00

So, did you ever have to just sit down and write your life story, yet keep it to only about 3 pages? It's not as easy as you may think. But it's done, and I have my first visit with my Homestudy Social Worker.

The meeting with the Social Worker went great. No problems at all and I feel very confident that there won't be any problems. One visit down, three more to go!

Homestudy & Physical

2005-04-04T10:31:00.000-05:00

My homestudy application is complete and has been mailed to the homestudy agency. Forever Familes was highly recommended, so far, just by phone, they seem very knowledgeable about what they do. I hope this process goes by quickly.

Today I also had my complete physical (required for the adoption), and got my shots! Hep A & Hep B, and tetanus. I'm documenting this so that someday, when my daughter is 18, I can show her everything I went through to get to her! Honestly though...I would walk across fire if they asked me to!

Passport Received

2005-03-31T23:30:00.000-05:00

WOW...2 weeks, that was really fast. Just goes to show, the US Government CAN work fast! (Sometimes)!!!

Criminal Background Check

2005-03-30T23:25:00.000-05:00

So I found my Homestudy Agency. I've received really good recommendations about them, so I hope they're good.

I also had to send off for my criminal background check, and paperwork that will check to see if I've ever been in the Child Protective Services database for any reason. I'm not sweatin' this stuff...sure it's time consuming, and I certainly understand the need for it...but they won't find nothin' on me! :) Too bad biological parents don't have to go though this kind of in-depth background check...bet there'd be less abused kids on this planet.

Oh...and more good news...my LOI was received in Beijing today...should get to CCAA by tomorrow!

Adoption Abbreviations 101

2005-03-30T21:21:00.000-05:00

Today my LOI was received in Beijing!

Okay...so in order to follow these posts, you'll have to understand some of the abbreviations I'll be using. So here is adoption abbreviations 101 class:

LOI - Letter of Intent (This is a letter you send to China that you intend to adopt one of their children. You must list why you want to adopt from China, and how you plan to care for and nuture your child.

PA - Pre-Approval (This is what you get back from China, based on your LOI. This basically says, we approve you to adopt, go ahead and forward all your paperwork).

DTC - Dossier To China (This is the 5 tons of paperwork that you prepare and gather to be sent to China).

LID - Log In Date (This is the date that China logs in your Dossier. Basically is just says they received it. A lot of adoptive parents use this date to determine when they'll travel).

TA - Travel Approval (aka The Holy Grail. This is the notification from China that you can come and get your child. Travel usually occurs anywhere from 1-6 weeks after you get this).

I need a Passport...

2005-03-15T11:19:00.000-05:00

So here I am, 43 years old, and I've never had a need for a Passport. That's pretty sad, considering it's always been my dream to spend a couple of months in Europe just traveling from city to city on the Euro-Train, seeing as much of Europe as I possibly can. Hmmmm...guess I can probably kiss that dream good-bye.

So today I ran over to the Post Office and did everything I needed to get my Passport. Hopefully it will be here in 4 weeks!

I also had to write a letter to China requesting permission to adopt Leila. Although the adoption agency has approved me, the final word/approval must come from China. Since I am adopting a waiting child, I must write a medical plan of treatment for Leila, as well as detail why I want to adopt her. It's done and ready to go...so now I sit on pins and needles waiting for their approval.

Meanwhile...I have plenty of paperwork to keep me busy while I wait!

APPROVED

2005-03-10T10:56:00.000-05:00

Well, it is March 10th, and the committee at CHI has agreed to allow me to adopt Leila. I'm excited...but terrified. It happened so fast...just days ago I was getting on waiting lists, expecting to have a 6 month to 1 year wait before I even start the paperwork process...now, all of a sudden, I have to start my paperwork right this minute!

My thoughts run in so many different directions. Did I make the right decision? Wait, this happened too fast. Am I truly the best mommy for this little girl? Maybe I should let a couple adopt her.

But then I think...of course I'm the right mommy...I will love her more than anything in the world...why wouldn't this be right? I have the means to make sure she gets the best medical treatment possible. I have a nice home, a great job, I can give her so much more than she has right now.

So, no matter what anyone thinks...adoption is never an easy decision. I think all of us who adopt second guess our decision...especially those of us that are single.

But the bottom line is...no matter what rambling thoughts go through my head, I am so excited I could just bust with happiness!

Leila - Where it all Begins

2005-03-08T10:41:00.000-05:00

On March 8, 2005 I saw a beautiful little girl on Childrens House International (CHI) Waiting Child list. Since I had been looking into adoption and I knew that there was a long wait list for singles, many people suggested I take a look at the waiting children. I went through several different waiting children lists, trying to see if I could find "the" child that was meant for me. Many factors were involved in my decision...was a waiting child the right route for me...could I handle, as a single person, a child with some kind of special need...did I want an older child or a younger child? Anyhow...these were some of my thoughts...

Then I saw her...her name is Leila (since the adoption agencies cannot give out the child's real name, this is the name that they gave her on their website). Actually, I also saw another child that was absolutely stunning...her name was Ivy. Ivy had a heart condition called VSD. I wasn't sure I could handle a child with a heart condition, but when I requested her file, I found out that she had already been snatched up. But there was Leila...I was also looking at her and thinking to myself...she definitely has a need I can handle. Leila has a birthmark on her eye. So I decided to request her medical file from CHI.

I received her paperwork, and immediately called my doctor to ask him to review her records for me. While I waited for him to get back to me, I compiled my list of questions for him, and did indepth research on birthmarks and birthmarks on the eye. I came to find out that there is a condition known as Sturge Webber Syndrome (SWS) that sometimes reveals itself via a birthmark on the face, specifically in the eye or eyelid area. I won't go into the long details of what Sturge Webber is...but suffice it to say, it can be bad, and it can be not so bad. There are doctors, lawyers, and politicians with SWS...and there are severely mentally challenged individuals with SWS.

Anyway...after talking with my doctor, he didn't believe that Leila had SWS and that it was simply a birthmark. But he did say there was still a risk. I also contacted Dr. Ann Comi at Johns Hopkins; she is a specialist in SWS, and she stated that Leila will have a 10-20% chance of having SWS.

After approximately 48 hours of in-depth thought...I decided to make the formal request to adopt Leila.