WAITING FOR MICHELA

BLOG HAS MOVED

2008-09-06T14:54:00.002-04:00

Since Michela is here to stay and we are awaiting on the newest addition to the family, we have changed the blog to Giggles, Grins and Chaos. It can be found at www.delrosso.blogspot.com

Jersey Shore Vacation

2008-09-06T13:45:00.004-04:00

So, in catching up, I figured I would put our vacation pictures up for all to see. We went back to the Jersey Shore and had another fabulous time with the whole family. It really was a great vacation! Click here for more pictures.

Moving the Blog

2008-08-17T13:52:00.001-04:00

We will not be adding to this blog anymore, but you can follow the whole family at
www.delrosso.blogspot.com

Our First Secret Swap Present

2008-04-26T09:55:00.004-04:00

As most people know, we are currently awaiting a referral for our second daughter, from Taiwan. While we are waiting, I have joined a yahoo group of families that are also waiting for their little ones through the same adoption agency as us. One of the mothers in the group decided to organize a "secret swap" to help make the weight a little more enjoyable. I am so excited that we received our first gift from our Secret Swap Buddy. Adorable soaps, which you can see pictured above. I should also preface that each month is a different theme, and April was "bath time". May will be books. The sweetest part was giving Michela her "prise", her face lit up - it was great. I can't wait to give our new daughter all her gifts when she gets here. A special thank you to my buddy for thinking of Big Sister Michela.

If you click here you can see some more pictures of Michela after the surgery and attending to the booboo of her baby. Boo Boo has become a very common word in her vocabulary since the surgery!

One more thing, I am going to start a new blog (discontinue this one) to encompass the whole family (instead of just Michela) and follow the journey of the new adoption as well. If anyone has any suggestions on a title, please help me out by posting them under comments. THANKS!

Michela's Surgery Went Well

2008-04-16T12:30:00.003-04:00

Our little Q-Tip is home and doing well. She was the usual trooper and barely complained. She is home and happy and we hope to keep her pain under control and her bandages in tact.

UPDATE: Michela is doing awesome. As usual she amazes me at her strength and perseverance. She slept on and off all day yesterday with very little complaining. She ate just a little and didn't drink much (causing Mommy and Daddy great concern). She slept through the night and woke up this morning wanting her diaper changed from "pee pees", which was the best thing we could have heard!!! She is a little more swollen and has bruised eyes, but the bandages are all in tack and she is tolerating them way better than I would have!

Easter

2008-04-11T20:57:00.004-04:00

Easter was a great day! It started out at home with Michela finding her Easter basket and ended up at Aunt Chrissy and Uncle Jerry's for Easter Dinner (which was excellent, of course!). Cousin Alexandra, once again stepped up to the plate this year to make Michela's Day by dressing up as the Easter Bunny. Unfortunately, Michela did not find it as interesting this year! Check out the great pictures of the day!

Click on the i for some captions.

Easter Egg Hunt

2008-04-11T20:53:00.004-04:00

Michela joined her cousins, Anthony and Nicholas for her first public Easter Egg Hunt. As you can tell by the pictures, she really wasn't seeing the point of picking up a bunch of plastic eggs (no matter how much Uncle Anthony and Daddy tried to get her t0). However, she did enjoy the free hot dog at the end! That's my girl!

The Year Of The Rat Celebration

2008-04-11T20:41:00.003-04:00

We celebrated Chinese New Year with family and close friends on March 1, 2008 (I know, I am always trying to catch up). This year we rented a little hall in order to add a few more people to the celebration (can't fit many people in the house). It was a huge hit, especially with the kids! We celebrated with Chinese food (YUMM) and red envelopes. Click here to see the pictures. There are allot of pictures, but I did not have time to add captions. A little note: Michela's ensemble was put together in a collaboration effort between Mommy and Michela. The Chinese shirt (purchased in China during our visit), was accompanied by jeans (so she could play) and a sweater (since the shirt was short sleeves and we wanted her to stay warm), but the most important item she is wearing is a fairy skirt that she received earlier in the day at her cousin Julia's fairy themed birthday party. She wasn't parting with that skirt for all the red envelopes in the world! We really had a great time and love the way all our family and friends help to celebrate our new found culture! Next year we plan to go even larger!!! Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with us, hope to celebrate with you again next year!

Picking Up Bad Habits

2008-03-28T10:50:00.006-04:00

We recently went to Virginia to visit the kinfolks. We had a great time, we don't get to see them enough, and it was Michela's maiden voyage down to the country. She actually did amazingly well on the 8 hour journey (even without a dvd player). Good to see that she can rough it! Anyway, she seemed to have picked up a little habit from her cousin Luke - brought on by Aunt Kim's constant nagging of Luke to "get his feet off the coffee table". Michela took it to a whole new level with bare feet at the dinner table. Of course, Daddy found this funny and tried to show Michela how to hold her straw between her toes.....that's why God made Mommies!

Here are some pictures from February.

The Queen of "No"

2008-03-27T20:50:00.003-04:00

Well, the moment I have been anticipating for has arrived.....Michela has discovered and mastered the "NO" word. She uses it often, speaks (sometimes yells) it very clearly, and often responds to everything with this new found sentiment. "No" has taken the place of her previous (but still close second) favorite word which is "MORE". She is doing fantastic with our new speech therapist and she truly seems to love school. All things that seem to be helping her move into the speaking world. Last night she delighted Daddy and me with the word "PLEASE", which in and of itself is quite fun and exciting, but to see her face scrunch up when she says it puts a smile on my face every time (even brings tears to my eyes when she works it in just right).

We have had a straight week of good sleeping and a very happy Michela when it comes to bedtime. (Very much like she was prior to the great sleep disruption that began in January). It is incredible to see how happy she is and how happy she makes us just watching her. Her teacher recently referred to her as a "Little Giant", and that is a great description, our Happy Little Giant!

Sierra's Princess Party for Michela

2008-03-13T22:05:00.005-04:00

In case I haven't mentioned it before, Michela is a very LUCKY girl! She is such an amazing little girl that people can't help themselves from spoiling her to no end. Our friend Sierra wanted to throw a private party for Michela to celebrate her birthday. Of course, we were flattered, thrilled and very excited when we received the personalized invitation in the mail, requesting that we arrive at the "castle" dressed in our favorite princess attire. Needless to say, this was right up Michela's ally (as you can see in the pictures, she put together her ensemble almost all by herself - she gets full credit for her tiara/crown statement). The weather outside was horrendous with torrential rain and cold winds, but once we arrived at the castle - the weather was forgotten and Michela was truly treated like royalty. Sierra did an incredible job and thought of everything from balloons, streamers, activities, music, home-made cupcakes and so much more. Even the dogs dressed up! (Note: We have already requested that Sierra plan Michela's birthday next year, we have found the best party planner ever!)

Click here to see the pictures.

It truly was an amazing party, and both Michela and Mommy thank Sierra and Patricia (and even poor Eddy who had to put up with us all on one of his rare days home, exhausted from traveling, too) from the bottom of our hearts. We are blessed to have such incredible friends!

Tragedy Strikes Michela's Little Town

2008-03-13T21:46:00.003-04:00

Well, we are recovering from the natural disaster that struck while Corrado was away on a business trip. One afternoon at the end of January, I was speaking to Corrado on the phone (he was in Paris on business) and telling him how windy it was and that allot of large branches came down. Then, right then and there, a very tall tree came down (it seemed like slow motion) and crashed right through Michela's little climbing tree house. It was devastating for all of us (but we are very grateful that there wasn't anyone hurt during this tragedy!) Here are the photos of Michela and Maple visiting the devastated area. Michela was heard saying allot of "UH OH"s that day! She has declared it a disaster zone, hoping for financial assistance from the insurance company. She made the statement (in her own way) that we will rebuild and be better than ever!

Michela in January

2008-03-13T21:42:00.004-04:00

Here are some more miscellaneous photos of Michela in January (08). I know that I am posting them in March, and it is so funny to see how much she has changed already. The missing teeth that you notice in the pictures have since arrived. There are some great shots of her entertaining us with her amazing (and quite humorous) dance moves, as well as her obsession with Maple (who appears a little nervous in these pictures, but I can assure you that she is loving every moment). ENJOY!

Michela's Second Birthday

2008-03-13T21:20:00.002-04:00

I know what you are thinking, her birthday was in January and her birthday post is just going up?!?! I know, I know, I know - but the problem is that Michela has decided to give up her nap time now that she has turned two - and sleeping through the night is no longer all that fun for her. Therefore, Mommy has NO free time and is cranky without her sleep.

But getting back to Michela's birthday.....it was fantastic. The whole family came, spoiled her rotten with way too many presents, and Michela was successful in blowing out her candle (which we practiced for quite some time prior to the big day!) You can see the pictures here.

Her birthday party with the whole family was actually the day before her actual birthday, so the morning of her birthday, Mommy and Daddy gave her a few more presents - to see her favorite from us check this out.

And of course, Aunt Ellen came by with a pretty special present too!

Catching Up

2008-01-18T14:07:00.000-05:00

Well, Michela will be two this weekend, and I haven't even put up the Christmas pictures. Boy this is a hectic time around here. In order to try to catch up, I have put a bunch of December pictures, which include Christmas, here. ENJOY! (Click the I in the center of the screen for captions)

Gotcha Day

2008-01-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

I am trying to catch up on photos and postings, the holidays have been a whirlwind. I noticed that I never put a posting up for Michela's Gotcha Day, but we did celebrate it with a big party with the family. Click here for a few pictures.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2007-12-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

Wow, the holidays have been a whirlwind, but Michela had no problem understanding the part about getting a whole lot of gifts - and a whole lot of attention. She is loving it!!! Even though we had Michela home for Christmas last year, and that was the best gift we could wish for, we didn't have a Christmas tree, we were adjusting to family life, time changes, and a whole new world. This year we truly were able to enjoy Christmas through Michela and it was incredible. She loved everything, well, except Santa. We took a few trips to the mall, sat near Santa a few times, but we finally compromised enough to get the picture above. I will add more holiday pictures later, just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Best Friends

2007-11-26T13:35:00.000-05:00

Michela and Maple during some typical days together. They certainly do entertain each other!

Nanni and Nonno's Surprise Anniversary Party

2007-11-18T14:42:00.001-05:00

We had a surprise anniversary party/ birthday party for Nanni and Nonno's 45th Anniversary and Nonno's 70th Birthday. Michela had a blast, dancing the afternoon away! A special thank you to Zia Nina (Corrado's Aunt from Italy) for the beautiful dress that Michela is wearing. We couldn't think of a better occassion for Michela to wear it, and she absolutely loved it! Click here for the slideshow.

Halloween

2007-11-18T14:25:00.001-05:00

Here are the long awaited Halloween Pictures. Michela had a blast, and I have stored away candy for myself for the year. Enjoy the slide show (note: click on the i in the center for the captions to show up). Click here

One Year Since Referral - November 2nd

2007-11-01T21:56:00.001-04:00

One year ago tomorrow (November 2nd) is when we first saw our baby girl! WOW, I can't believe it has been a year already.

She has changed so much from this picture. It amazes me how she learns so many new things, develops a stronger personality, and can wrap us around her finger more and more every day.

This past year has gone by in a blink of an eye. When I think back at how long that wait seemed for her referral, it amazes me how fast time flies by now.

We are the luckiest parents in the world! At this time last year, the day was probably like any other for her - for us, it changed EVERYTHING - and all for the BETTER!

We fell in love with her before we ever saw her, when we saw her picture it all became real....when they put her in our arms, she was already our daughter. Michela is the most amazing little girl who will do the most amazing things. We are lucky to be along for the ride....and an exciting ride it will be!!!!

QUIET = TROUBLE

2007-10-31T22:46:00.001-04:00

Here is one example of what can happen when there is an ominous quiet in the house. Michela was completely miffed as to how this could have happened when I interrogated her. She was trying to point me in the direction of Maple. Of course both of them stuck to their stories, and neither one of them could be charged with the crime. HMMMM..

Mommy has learned that she cannot leave the diaper bag out in plain sight.

Our Little Shopaholic

2007-10-31T22:38:00.001-04:00

This is my little girl returning from a hard day shopping at the mall. NOTE: Mommy is coming up the rear carrying all of her purchases. Have you ever seen a happier child????

Getting Our Exercise

2007-09-23T18:55:00.000-04:00

We have a new toy to enable all three girls to go out for a walk together. In case you think Michela is uncomfortable, think again. After our maiden voyage, she fell asleep on the second round less than 20 minutes into the walk, and she was even snoring. This is the same kid who won't fall asleep anywhere but her crib and car seat (on occasion). Maple loves it too! Click for more pictures of our maiden voyage.

Summer is Over, Here Comes the Fall

2007-09-16T12:11:00.001-04:00

I know, I know, I know, it has been forever since I have updated this blog. Michela has certainly been keeping me busy. She is moving along at leaps and bounds and continues to get funnier, more independent, and opinionated (Maple said to add in bossy) every day. We had a great summer, but we are certainly looking forward to the cool weather - and the new clothes! Here are some of our adventures over the last couple of weeks (or months)...

We had some fun at the grandparents' house (note we even moved in our own sandbox for when we visit). You will also see in this picture that Michela is sporting a new hairdo, which we call "the sprout" look. Click here to see these pictures.

We had a new addition to the little play area in the backyard, which Michela absolutely adores. Click here to see.

Michela has a new booster seat, so she can sit at the table with the big folks. Click here.

Maple (or is it Michela) got another new bed. Click here.

We played alot. Click here. ... And we had quiet moments...click here.

And Michela was really lucky to have a summer with alot of quality time with the "big girls". She absolutely adores her cousins, and they definately take really good care of her! Click here.

Wildwood Vacation Was A HIT!

2007-07-21T12:46:00.000-04:00

Our Wildwood vacation was a complete hit. Michela loved the sand, the water, and best of all - she wore her sun hat the entire time. A battle I never thought I would win. She loved the condo that we rented (and so did I!) and she adapted without any problems at all. She stayed up late most nights and did great.

Vacation was made easier on Mom and Dad thanks to Alex (cousin and part-time au pair). We also were lucky to have Corrado's whole family down there most of the vacation, and a brief visit by Aunt Kim, Uncle Jimmy and Luke.

We even had a great party with allot (maybe a few too many) chocolate martinis - (you will see in the pictures coming up) and had the family plus friends (Carlos, Janna, Christian and Nina) making the vacation perfect!

We had a great time, as you will be able to tell by checking out the pictures here.

Michela Loves Her New Chair

2007-06-20T21:59:00.001-04:00

Here are some funny pictures of Michela and her new $3.99 chair, that she thinks is the greatest thing ever! Daddy ages a few years every time he sees her climb on it. Mommy is just used to the little dare devil and her numerous antics. Click here to see pictures.

Is this the CUTEST FACE EVER????

2007-06-19T20:45:00.000-04:00

The picture speaks for itself!

She Cracks Me Up

2007-06-19T12:20:00.001-04:00

Well life has been crazy and allot has been happening at our house. Michela appears to be getting two molars peaking through, a new tooth up top, and with each day her strong and independent attitude grows and grows (as does her cuteness). She loves to blow her nose, which is pretty funny - and sometimes embarrassing or annoying since she chooses to use my shirt at the spur of the moment - or even better yet, she likes to use the clean laundry. Oh well, at least it isn't her sleeve, right?

She continues to boss the dog around on a regular basis, which seems to be working for both of them. The other day she insisted on putting her sippy cup in Maple's water bowl, while Maple was drinking. I took the cup away, gave her a new one, told her not to do it again, well, that was a joke - she ran right back to the water bowl. Unfortunately for poor dehydrated Maple, I felt it necessary to either pick up Maple's bowl, or spend the hour sitting there watching it. Look at the picture and you will see that Michela was concerned about Maple being dehydrated (which she really wasn't at all - she had plenty of water available) and put her sippy cup down for Maple. I laughed out loud for a quite a while on this one. Too cute!

UPDATE: The big stain looking thing in the picture is really just the spilled water which caused the bowl to be picked up. Click here for some more pictures.

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T21:55:00.000-04:00

Michela asked me to post the following to her Daddy:

Dear Daddy,

Happy First Father's Day! I just wanted to let you know that I am the luckiest girl in the world, since I have the best Daddy ever. My Daddy is the best because he loves me no matter what, he can't get enough of the funny things I do, I know his heart melts when I smile in that silly way that lights up the whole room and shows off my beautiful teeth, he never tires of talking to me, playing with me, or just watching my crazy shenanigans. I like to make Daddy nervous by standing on my chair, falling down after running at high speeds, and just doing things to drive him crazy (cause Mommy says that's my job). But most of all, I love you because you are the greatest Daddy and I love being your little girl.

By the way, Mommy thinks you are the best, too! Looking forward to next week so that we can have our own special Father's Day Celebration. Hurry home safe and sound, Daddy; Mommy and I miss you like crazy.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, DADDY!

Love, Michela (and Maple, too)

Fun in the Sand (and Surf)

2007-05-23T09:50:00.000-04:00

Michela has had her first swim in her turtle pool (OK, maybe her first splash - it is a little small to swim in), and she likes to play in her turtle sand box. (NOTE: Christmas Tree Shop had Turtles on sale - can you tell???) Anyway, here are some cute pictures of the girls having a ball!

Latest Check Up

2007-05-22T08:28:00.000-04:00

According to her most recent check-up, Michela is doing well and has officially "made the charts". She has reached the lower 10th percentile for her weight and height and the lower 1/3 for her head size. Unfortunately, she had a rough time between three shots and several unsuccessful attempts at drawing her blood. She was a bit traumatized at first, but made a quick rebound when she got her hands on some McDonald's french fries. (Note: in the first picture from an unsuccessful blood drawing on Friday, she had two Bugs Bunny Band-aids; the second and third pictures she has five band-aids from three vaccinations and three different attempts at blood drawing (one a little successful)). The trooper still continues to smile, even with all her band-aids! I think Mommy took the whole thing a little harder than Michela.

The New Backyard Play Set

2007-05-21T11:07:00.000-04:00

Thank God the nice weather and the play set have arrived! A special thank you to Aunt Patty, Uncle Matt, Aunt Nichol, Uncle Anthony, Anthony and Nicholas for the best play set a girl could ever have! Michela loves to be outside climbing, swinging and sliding. Here are some pictures of her (and Maple) enjoying the fresh air!

China Adoptioin Group Reunion

2007-05-17T17:55:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, we were able to reunite with some of the families that were in our group in China. A special thank you to Jill and John for hosting our crew. We all had a great time, and of course came home with a million photos. Click here to see a few photos of these beautiful girls.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2007-05-13T19:53:00.000-04:00

Today is my first mother's day, and what can I say? It is so much more than I ever dreamed possible. Michela has taken over our lives and our hearts, all with her first smile, and we wouldn't have it any other way. It truly feels like she has been here forever, and every day is an adventure. Now, don't get me wrong - there are times (not days, but just times) that are draining, overwhelming, and down right exhausting - but Michela has a way of making that giggle sound, flashing that smile, and making that all go away. It is like magic - if only I could find a way to bottle and market it - we would be a very wealthy family! (Which I guess we already are - since we have her, even if we can't sell the cuteness for the cash...:0) But I digress.

I just want to say thank you to Michela, Maple, and of course Corrado for an awesome first Mother's Day, as well as the most incredible family a girl could ask for.

Michela's Christening

2007-05-10T07:23:00.000-04:00

I'm sorry that it has been so long since the last post, things have been insane here. Of course I have a ton of pictures that need to be uploaded to this blog, that overflow with cuteness and the world's best smiles. Here are some pictures of Michela's christening, which was an awesome day (except for that little Nor'easter...but we barely noticed it during the ceremony and party.)

While you are looking at them, here are some things that you might be wondering about. Michela was wearing a winter hat around the house, in the morning, because she was having one of her worst fly-away hair days -ever! The solution was to try to give her a little hat head. It did help a little (but as you will see, not as well as we had hoped). There is also a picture of Daddy looking at Michela's butt, while Mommy is holding her up in the air - this is pretty funny, since as we were taking the family photos in the church, Michela's tights became attached to Mommy's bracelet - basically a major wardrobe malfunction, which Daddy saved the day and fixed it all. Click here to see the pictures.

Watching the Changes

2007-04-11T15:57:00.000-04:00

Our little girl is changing and growing before our eyes. Today was an amazing day because I noticed so many new things with her. We started the day off with a diaper change, (no I'm not going to say she is potty trained - I only wish) which she desperately does not like. She shows how strongly she doesn't like it by yelling "Iye yie yie yie yie". Maybe she used to watch Ricky Ricardo on I Love Lucy re-runs in China??? Anyway, we proceeded to our new session of Music Together classes (which she loves) and just watching her walk around, interact with the other kids and adults, sing, yell, play the instruments, get excited over the instruments when they came out and best of all running up to the box to pick out instruments with the other kids. It was amazing knowing that starting in the last session she wasn't even walking, never mind leaving my side. It truly was amazing.

After lunch, I put her down on the floor and started to clean up, only to turn around and realize that she went into the living room, sat down, and started playing with her blocks very happily. All by herself! Then I actually had the time to sit in the living room with her and look over the paper. I was interrupted by some loud "ehs", and Michela jumping up to "run" into the kitchen. It seems Maple found Michela's sippy cup of water that she placed on her exersaucer (like it is her own little table) and took it off. Michela was yelling at her, walked in, took it away - pushing Maple aside, turned (with a few more loud "ehs") and went back in the living room to continue playing with her blocks. It appears that even Maple is in for some changes around here.

Anyway, she is just becoming more independent and amazing everyday and I can't help but call Corrado at work to report these things as they happen. (I am sure the guys at work love that!)

On the list of firsts....she brushed her teeth (or chewed on her toothbrush) for the first time last night. That is the picture that is at the top of this entry. Does it get any cuter??

Michela's First Easter

2007-04-11T12:19:00.000-04:00

Michela's first Easter was very exciting for all of us. She started out with her basket, which she loved, and then dressed in her Easter Dress - absolutely adorable (Thank you Aunt Judy for the beautiful outfit). She did the rounds as we showed her off (and by the way, she loved the little hat and was happy to have it on all day). When we arrived at Aunt Chrissy's house we were welcomed by the Easter Bunny, which was absolutely hilarious and she loved the Bunny. What a lucky and special girl she is to have the Easter Bunny waiting for her on Easter Sunday! In addition, Aunt Chrissy, Uncle Jerry and the girls set up a little Easter egg hunt on the front lawn for her. Mommy had to insist that the egg hunt wait until she changed out of her Easter outfit, as the weather was freezing and she wasn't dressed for that. Later she went out in her second outfit (included jeans and an Easter shirt, with her hat of course) and picked up all the eggs, placed them in her Easter Basket, and all during a flurrying snow fall. By the end of the day she was exhausted, as were Mommy and Daddy, but everyone had a wonderful day. Click here to see allot of pictures.

A Typical Week

2007-04-11T07:43:00.000-04:00

So it seems we are settling into a routine and things are starting to become "normal". Michela had a cold this week and the teeth are still popping up like spring bulbs, but I can still say that things are normal because I am learning that normal doesn't mean everything is the same from week to week. The weather is getting nice (still a little too cold) but it gives us so much more to do, and yet life is normal. It seems like Michela has always been here. I realize that this week she has physically been with us for four months now, but she has been in our hearts for three years. For those of you still waiting for your little ones, the wait may seem like forever, but once they are in your arms, the wait just becomes a distant memory that has left you with a longer feeling of history with your baby. Most Moms have 9 months to bond with their baby, we actually had about 2.5 years. In hind sight, I wouldn't change a thing, except I most definitely would have begun the process allot sooner. Above is a slide show of a week with Michela and her best friend.

First Mickey Mouse Ears

2007-04-05T13:03:00.000-04:00

Michela's Aunt Chrissy and Cousin Layne went to Disney and brought Michela her first Mickey Mouse Ears - pink of course! She also got a onesie and a Minnie Mouse Doll that has become her favorite in her crib. THANKS Aunt Chrissy and Layne! (Note: Just an FYI, her nose is not running really bad in the pictures, as it may appear, she actually had neosporin on it for a little scratch she got while at the playground earlier that day.)

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-04-04T11:17:00.001-04:00

Michela's New Red Convertible

2007-04-03T23:21:00.000-04:00

Michela has grown to love her new red convertible. She received this great car from Uncle Alex and Aunt Vinnie, so we figured we'd get her out in it now that the weather was nice. She wasn't too crazy about it at first, but now we can be see pushing her around in it on a daily basis - either in the yard, down the block, or just out visiting. Click here to see the pictures.

First Official Playdate

2007-04-02T20:22:00.001-04:00

Michela had her first "official" play date (official because it wasn't a cousin, but a friend) this past week and it was incredible. Michela's friend Chiara (one of the girls adopted from China at the same time, province, and town) came for lunch and some playtime. It was amazing to see the two of them together - they are both the same size (weight and height) but very different personalities. They seemed to have a pretty good time together, and both Moms' had a really great time watching them. It was also nice to have someone to talk to who knows exactly what you are going through. Mary (Chiara's mom) is great support to bounce things off of, someone who is going through the same things that we are at the same time, and she is a whole lot of fun. Mary made the comment that something magical must happen in the matching room in China, because when you look at our girls they seem to be so much like us - personality wise. Click here to see play date photos.

Getting Ready for American Idol Tryouts

2007-03-22T23:15:00.000-04:00

Michela is actively working on her American Idol audition with her karaoke machine microphone. She loves to stick almost the whole thing in her mouth while making strange sounds. I bet she could make the show - who knows, maybe some day. In the meantime, hide your your microphones as she tends to goob them up pretty badly. The worst is when she passes it to me to use, after she has soaked really good. She has now developed the habit of wiping the microphone on her shirt before using it, I wonder where she learned that from???

In Search of a Balloonaholics Anonymouse Meeting

2007-03-15T19:19:00.000-04:00

Michela has developed a serious balloon addiction that is causing some concerns for Mommy and Daddy. This serious balloon addiction seems to be slowing down her ability to walk, as she cannot let go of the balloon for any reason. Playing is even difficult for this child. She can be heard morning, noon and night saying "Booooooon" (translation = balloon). She has one in the car, two in the house, one attached to her stroller. As a matter of fact, she caused quite a few snickers at the mall the other day attached to her "Happy St. Patrick's Day" balloon. She falls asleep in the carriage and in the car with it clamped in her hand. Since we are concerned this is slowing her down, we are seeking a Balloonaholics Anonymous Meeting, and if she refuses to go, we will have to stage an intervention. To see how serious this problem really is, click here.

Maple's concern and support for her sister can be seen here, as she holds Mommy's hand. She promises to do all that she can, including confiscating a balloon here and there in order to help break Michela's habit.

Maple Makes A New Friend.....

2007-03-15T09:59:00.000-04:00

I know what you are probably thinking when you look at this picture....oh she is such a cute little Angel (OK, that is what I would think). Well, my little angel decided that since the weather was so beautiful today, and Michela isn't up to running around the yard with her yet, why not venture out and find a new friend. Well, venture out she did! She found a way out of the yard by crawling under the fence, went exploring, and met Pepe Le Pew. Michela was about to wake up from her nap for lunch, and I realized that Maple had been out in the yard for awhile, but I didn't see her. I went outside, called for her, and there she came barreling through the neighbors yard (more like woods). Of course, I was so excited that she was coming on call (when she was loose, not the norm) that I bent down to greet her with a big hug....boy was that a mistake! Anyway, Michela had to eat lunch while Maple stayed out on the patio, eating a Frosty Paw - because after all she did come when she was called and needed a reward. Then we all went into the garage so that Maple could have a good bath in her dog tub. Michela found the whole process very enjoyable as she watched from her exersaucer and cheered Maple on.

In the end, it turned out to be a pretty good day. We all smell like skunk, as Michela refuses to stop hugging Maple no matter what she smells like. I think Maple thinks it is Michela that stinks, by the looks that she gives her. Or maybe Maple went out to find the skunk in order to keep Michela away for a while. Whatever the explanation, Corrado will come home from his trip today to a house of stinky girls!

There's No Place Like Home

2007-03-03T22:09:00.000-05:00

Apparently this is Michela's motto. We attempted a little weekend ski get-a-way to Lake Placid with Michela. It all started with packing just about everything in the house, and bringing it with us. Two things that we should have taken, but couldn't fit: Maple and Michela's room. The five-hour ride was a piece of cake, thanks to the balloon we brought for Michela for the ride. She was thrilled to be at the hotel, very friendly to all the new faces, and even pretty good through dinner at the nice restaurant......however, all bets were off the minute her feet hit the crib at the hotel. She cried hysterically for two hours - even though we were right there in the room with her (maybe that was the problem?....she wants her own room?). She finally fell asleep at 10:30PM with Mommy keeping her arm in the crib next to the bed. I learned that Michela makes allot of noise when she sleeps and moves around allot (kept me up all night). Then our little bundle of joy decided that a 6AM wake-up was appropriate - didn't want Daddy to miss any time on the slopes. Since she normally doesn't wake until 8AM and takes her morning nap around 10AM, by 10AM she was quite cranky, but would not go in the crib. She laid on top of Mommy and finally fell asleep for about half an hour. Then we tried some shopping, had a little yogurt, then went to the mountain to meet Daddy. We put Michela in her little sled and she immediately started to cry. We knew she was tired, put her back in the car and she cried hysterically for about 25 minutes - this was when Mommy suggested to Daddy we should consider going home instead of waiting until Sunday. After listening to Michela cry for this length of time (Daddy doesn't like to hear Michela cry) he agreed it was a wise idea.

Soooo... now we are home, Michela had a quick bath and went to bed like an angel. Therefore, we are pretty certain we made the right choice. In hindsight, she has only been home less than three months, has gotten accustomed to sleeping in her own bed in her own room, then we whisk her off to a new hotel and crib - she might have thought she was being given to a new mommy and daddy - after all that is how we started this family - in two different hotels in China. We have decided to hold off travel for a while now. The other great thing was that Maple was waiting for us when we got home (unfortunately her vacation next door with Aunt Ellen and Uncle Gary also got cut short - she probably would have liked to stay at that hotel) and when Michela walked in the door and saw her - her face lit up like it was Christmas. We couldn't keep her off Maple once she got her feet on the ground.

Anyway, Michela continues to work on the walking and is doing quite well. Mom and Dad are shell-shocked enough to have no desire for any "get-a-ways" anytime soon, and Maple seemed pretty happy to have the clan home, after all, she can go next door for little "get-a-ways" whenever she wants.

First REAL Steps

2007-03-01T21:04:00.000-05:00

Well, it finally happened for real. Aunt Ellen stopped by just as Michela was getting her book for bed (she hasn't been able to see her for two weeks due to traveling - now remember Aunt Ellen has been working diligently to help Michela walk....). We put Michela on the rug and she walked from Aunt Ellen to Mommy. Daddy came and joined the group (along with Maple, of course) and within a half hour, Michela was taking about ten steps, with a stop and turn in the middle. She also bent down at one point, picked up a cup, stood back up (never using her hands) and walked a few more steps. We finally remembered to get the video camera out (which was right there in the room the whole time). So, we did manage to capture some of it on video. Of course, Daddy left the room for a few minutes, we thought we were done for the night, and Michela decided to walk across the room from Aunt Ellen to Mommy. Pretty funny.

An Explosion of Teeth

2007-02-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

Apparently our little devil has been keeping a secret from Mommy and Daddy. She was popping out teeth when nobody was looking (or at least she did a really good job hiding them). Today, while Michela was laughing hysterically in the play room - while hanging upside down from Mommy- I noticed several white sprouts coming through on top. These little white sprouts were not there a few days ago, and definately explains why we had the bout of poor sleeping and crankiness over the past couple of weeks. I cannot tell exactly how many new teeth are coming in, as Michela is still trying desperately to keep it a secret. (I can only hold her upside down for so long before having to worry about brain damage....I think)

She will be going on her first ski trip this weekend, so get ready for some really funny pictures, as well as some interesting stories.

Michela Attends Her First Party

2007-02-25T15:26:00.000-05:00

Michela was invited to her cousin Julia's Birthday Party and had an awesome time. The party was at a kid's gym and Michela held her own very well. I think her favorite thing (besides the cupcake and balloons) was the bubble machine followed by the slide. Now to show how naive a Mom that I am, when we received the invitation it said the party time was for an hour and a half. I thought, wow, that's a pretty quick party. Well I can say, I now understand why. It was a perfect whirlwind from the moment you arrived. The kids played, then had group interaction, then ate some pizza, quickly followed by some more organized playtime, then cake, then a little more free playtime and out the door. All the kids had a great time, there were no fights, arguments or tears. It was amazing to me. You can see some pictures from the party here. (Special thank you to Uncle Alex for taking so many great pictures - Mom and Dad forgot to bring a camera.)

Michela is still not walking on her own, but just on the verge. While I am updating the blog, Dad is working on the gate that is going at the bottom of the stairs, as Michela LOVES the stairs. Mom on the other hand, cannot spend the whole day holding her hand as she goes up and down again and again and again. Michela's cousin Alex is grabbing a few minutes of rest and relaxation, as she has been occupying Michela most of the day so that Aunt Lissa (Mom) can try to get a few things done around the house.

Yesterday Michela, Mom, Aunty Chrissy and cousin Alexandra spent the afternoon shopping for Christening gowns, with absolutely no success. Apparently, Michela is unique and we will need to find her a unique dress. The gown will be too long, as she will be walking by April and won't be happy in a gown she can't walk in. Therefore, the hunt continues - nothing good comes easy. Although, the two chocolate martinis that Dad made for Mom, when she came home, went down really easy!

Happy Valentines Day and Happy Chinese New Year

2007-02-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Valentine's Day together, which was really nice. Michela and Maple really wanted to go out in the snow, but it was just too darn cold and windy. We did let Michela play in the snow, as we brought it in the house in Tupperware (thanks for the tip Aunt Jen). Apparently Michela loves the snow, as I had to pull her hands out of it before she ended up losing a finger or two to frost bite. Corrado made a fantastic dinner of asparagus risotto and lobster, unfortunately we had to eat it in shifts, as Michela felt like skipping dinner for the first time, Valentine's Day Night. Oh well, you can't have everything.....or I guess we actually do!

We celebrated Chinese New Year with family and friends, and everyone had a great time. I have to admit that we ordered take-out Chinese food and didn't have much traditional things (except noodles, which you must have for good luck.) The Year of the Boar was definitely celebrated, as will all Chinese New Years in the future - hopefully we will get a little more authentic as Michela gets older, and realizes what is going on.

So, today's big trick that Michela learned was how to go down the stairs from the bedrooms to the living room level. She still cannot walk, but she can race up the stairs - and come down them standing up (holding on very tightly to the banister). Of course, I am sitting on each step in front of her, making sure she doesn't take one big step - but she is stubborn and insists on doing it her way. (I tried to show her to sit down and go step by step - but not my girl, oh no, she knows it all!)

Anyway, here are some great pictures from Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year. Click here to see them.

Happy FIRST Birthday, Michela

2007-02-18T20:36:00.000-05:00

So much has been going on here, it seems impossible to keep up. That being said, I have made myself a Chinese New Year's Resolution to keep this blog updated. I hear from so many people that they miss the updates, and Michela is so damn cute and funny - I feel the need to share this with everyone. I also figure it is a great outlet for me to write down all the funny things that she does.

We have been having celebration after celebration around here, and I think we may actually be done for a little while. We had Michela's first birthday bash, which was fantastic (see some photos here. That was followed by Corrado's birthday, Valentine's Day, and then Chinese New Year. We are wiped out! I am sure that Michela thinks life is one big party - which is OK by me, I hope she always thinks that is the case.

Her personality is developing every day. She definitely is opinionated now, and let's us know what she does and does not like. Things she does not like: fluffy winter coat, going in the car seat in a fluffy winter coat, her hat.....Things that she loves: balloons, cake, presents - and unwrapping them, constant attention from family and friends, her Maple, her Dad, music, snow, bath time, and so much more. She has learned to throw fits where her whole body tenses up, she turns red, and she shakes (i have to admit, I first was concerned it may be a seizure, but am now sure it is a fit - which is quick but really funny).

She is developing and growing very well. She is still eating well. Has four teeth (and appears to be teething constantly), she took her first two steps yesterday - so I expect her to be truly walking before the end of the month. (I mentioned to my girlfriend Ellen that it may happen by the end of the week, but she begged me to keep knocking her down until she returns from her business trip this week - Ellen has been working very hard to get Michela to walk and doesn't want to miss it.)

To see the latest pictures click here

Almost One - My How Time Flys

2007-01-17T21:55:00.000-05:00

Wow, how fast they grow....it seems liked we blinked our eyes and she is almost one. Our little girl is growing up so quick.

Sorry I haven't been posting more updates, but life with Michela has been a whirlwind between holidays, getting settled, getting teeth (Michela, not us), and now her first birthday. She amazes us more more each day. She is the happiest baby I have ever known. There is no way to describe the rush I get every time she smiles, and how much I love to hear her little giggle when she laughs out loud. When she snuggles into my arms (especially when she is half asleep, or upset and needing to be comforted) my heart melts and there is nothing in the world that I would not do for her. She truly is our little miracle.

We have been busy this week with photographs, birth announcements (they are going in the mail tomorrow), thank you notes (everyone has been incredibly thoughtful and generous and I can't keep up with the thank yous - but they are going in the mail by this weekend), and now her first birthday. The photo shoots were fun, and the photographers saw a sucker coming at them from a mile away. There isn't a picture that I didn't love for some reason (I didn't get them all, though). And speaking of pictures, I know I need to update the pictures section - after all that is what everyone wants to see on this blog. I promise there will be more pictures soon - I have over 400 since Christmas Eve.

We had a rough eye doctor visit this week, but the good news is that all is fine (of course it took two and a half hours of pure torture to Michela before we got the clean bill of health.) We will be going for her monthly check-up tomorrow, so I will have more information and statistics.

Corrado has been going back to work a few days a week. Michela and I are doing well on our days alone, and we are looking forward to starting play dates soon. I took her to our first Mommy and Me gym class, which she liked and we will continue. I am signing her up for Mommy and Me swim classes, and she does well in the "day care" at the gym. She has those girls wrapped around her little finger - I doubt her feet ever hit the floor in there.

Well, that's the news for now. We will definitely update the pictures before her birthday - and then do the birthday pics to follow. I am going to have Corrado teach me the process so that we can get these up a little faster.

Three Teeth and Counting....

2007-01-04T21:30:00.000-05:00

Isn't this the greatest Welcome Panda ever??? A special thank you to our good friends and neighbors Gary and Ellen for making this for Michela and to welcome our family home from China. (I forgot to post the picture earlier.) The best part is that we can put it out for Michela's birthdays each year. It is absolutely adorable and Gary and Ellen did an incredible job! THANK YOU!

Moving on to current events, Michela now has THREE TEETH. I cannot believe it - when she was handed to us on December 6th she had none. She has been a real trooper with the teething, but we know she is feeling it. The bottom two are visible when she smiles (which she does quite often) and the top one was discovered by Mommy's finger today.

We find her more amazing every day. She has us wrapped around her finger (especially Daddy and Maple) so tight it is unreal. Daddy went to work for the first time yesterday, leaving Mom in charge of holding down the fort. We all did very well; Mom even found the time to order the birth announcements - amazing! Things are actually starting to become "normal" around here again, and it seems like Michela has been with us forever.

She does have trouble falling asleep at night still, but we are working through it. Once she is asleep; however, she sleeps straight through the night. Nap time is becoming more and more entertaining, as I watch her on the camera. Once she is put down, she finds all sorts of ways to entertain herself before she falls asleep and after she wakes up. Today she was actually shaking the bars on the side of the crib like she was in jail, sometimes she waves at the camera, but usually she just plays in general - all without any cries or complaints.

Well, it is time for Mom to go to bed, so we will post more pictures over the weekend. Look forward to putting up the New Year Pictures of the party girl!

Home Sweet Home

2006-12-29T17:06:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has been so long since we have written. Settling in at home, during the holidays, was a little more chaotic then we anticipated, but a whole lot of fun too. We are working on getting a routine down, but that is difficult with the holidays, as there is always something different to do, people to visit or visit us, holiday parties, and more. In the middle of all this, colds have managed to hit all of us, and I had the opportunity to smash the car on the way to the doctor's office (just me, no baby in the car and no injuries - just the joy of waiting for the car to be repaired). Michela has obtained her second tooth (we are so lucky to have seen her first in China - and now the second -wow!) Daddy is constantly asking her to be careful with them, as he is anticipating the orthodontic bills already.

Anyway, we are home, safe and very happy. We were greeted by most of the family as soon as we arrived home. Of course, there was a whole lot of food and everything that Michela could possibly need waiting for us. The flight was easier on Michela then on Mom, but we all did very well. I will be happy not to see an airplane for at least a few months! It took Michela about two days to adjust to the new time, which was awesome! She sleeps through the night and takes about two naps a day. She is eating like a champ - no surprise there! She saw her pediatrician as soon as we arrived home and he said she is very small, but generally looks pretty good. The doctor instructed us to give her anything she wants to eat, and then add butter to it, (which makes Nanni very excited) and milkshakes instead of plain milk (which makes Mommy very happy). She had a slight ear infection, but that has since cleared up. She weighed in at just slightly over 15 pounds, so our Guanzhou weight was off a bit (probably in part due to the clothes). She is wearing clothes sized at 9 months, but she is the cutest little peanut. She has also developed little creases and rolls in her legs, so I think we are doing our job with putting on the weight!

Maple loves her and she loves Maple, which is a very good thing! When Maple walks in the room Michela's face lights up. When Maple wakes up in the morning, or returns from being out in the yard, she immediately goes looking for Michela. It is a great relationship, which you will see in the latest pictures here.

Well, that's it for now, we will post more updates and pictures very soon.

Day 12 (and 11) Guangzhou

2006-12-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

This is a combined Day 11 and Day 12. On Day 11 it wasn’t really that much of a picture day. But the big news is we went to the Embassy and at 4pm China time, 3am Eastern Standard Time Michela was officially sworn in. We waited until Day 12 to get her Visa paperwork though. Now when we go home and through immigration she becomes naturalized as a US citizen. Hooray! Dinner was interesting. We went to a Szechwan style restaurant which was a little spicy. Seems Michela couldn’t stand the smells since she started to cry out loud until we took her outside. We brought her back in to feed her again, same result, so mom and Dad took shifts. Dad ate first, and sampled the local “fire water” 4-5 times. Then Mom handed off to Dad and got a bite and 3 fire waters herself. Ok they were small glasses and we earned them!

Day 12 was pretty much a goof around fun day. The morning highlight was the group pictures we took as a whole, and then the picture of all the babies sitting together. That was quite interesting to watch! Michela hammed it up to the end, and then she told us she had enough. Later that day it was a shopping excursion, some packing, dinner, and Dad just finished packing. Tomorrow is a VERY EARLY departure. We have a 90 minute bus ride, 3 hr plane ride, 2 hr lay over, and then it’s 13.5 hr’s back home. Figure on another hour to get through customs, then 2 hrs to drive home so we’re looking at a day of traveling! Wonder what we’ll do for dinner tomorrow night. We’ll be pretty tired, maybe we’ll just order out for some Chinese ;-)

So for a look at the last round of pictures from China click here.

Day 10 Guangzhou

2006-12-13T08:39:00.000-05:00

Today started with an awesome breakfast buffet. We learned that Michela does NOT like French Toast with Maple syrup - this was a monumental discovery, as Michela eats likes a linebacker and hasn't met a food yet that she doesn't like. She ate her first tangerine this morning and it was hysterical to see her reaction when she tasted the tartness - first a look of concern, followed by a giant smile - hilarious!

Breakfast was followed by a passport photo taken of Michela for her visa (beautiful, of course). Next stop was a ten minute walk (in the rain, it appears a cloud has been following us on our whole trip) to the office for Michela's medical exam for the visa. We were very lucky, since we walked in and were taken care of immediately. As a matter of fact, the exams took about 30 minutes total for the whole group, and when we were walking out the hall was filled with waiting babies and parents. Michela is healthy and currently weighing about 16 pounds - told you she can eat that's over a pound since we got her!

We walked back, stopped for a few outfits along the way, then stopped back at the room for a quick bottle for Michela. We were pleasantly surprised to find our "Limited Edition White Swan Barbie" (see picture in the link below) waiting for us in our room.

Next stop, lunch buffet. It was interesting and good, but Mommy was most excited about the ICE CREAM! Mommy had her fill of green tea, vanilla, and chocolate ice cream (with some chocolate sauce, of course). Daddy was also grateful that Mommy found the ice cream! Michela discovered that she likes to eat and play with jello cubes.

Next stop was a group meeting to fill out a ton of paperwork. Then Michela and Daddy took some power naps before we went out to dinner for Cantonese. In the beginning of the meal, Michela discovered that chopsticks are a dangerous toy, as she clocked herself in the head which caused a lump - and probably soon a bruise. Later this evening, Mommy and Daddy were trying to decide whether the lump was really caused by the chopstick incident...or was Michela starting to sprout horns?????

Bedtime is getting a little more difficult each night, even for Daddy (AKA "The Baby Whisperer"). Michela spent two hours laughing hysterical at us as we tried to get her to bed. Apparently we are funniest, to her, at this hour. Well, it is late and we are tired, so tomorrow is another day - and another day closer to us coming home, yeah!

You can find some pictures of today's events here.

Day 9 GuangZhou

2006-12-12T08:51:00.000-05:00

Well we made it! The day was a little stressful at first but it was worth it to be that much closer to home. Our first stop from the hotel was to pick up Michela’s Chinese passport. That was pretty uneventful taking about 30 minutes for all 11 families. Then it was back on the bus and to the airport.

At the airport, it was pretty smooth sailing. We were like pro’s in the departures lobby while waiting for all the luggage to be checked as a group we managed to give Michela her lunch bottle. Then we turned a carry on bag into a make shift changing table and gave her a “dry one” for the trip.

On the plane we expected the worst but got a few surprises. First Michela fell asleep 10 minutes before boarding and stayed that way for ½ the flight. She takes after Dad! Then she woke up happy and hungry and stayed that way. We all got our luggage (what a scene we are) and made it back to the bus and headed for the White Swan hotel. On the bus Michela got a bottle and some cheerios.

When we got to the hotel everyone was pretty happy. This place is like the Disney Grand Floridian. We’re all settled in now and in the next few days finish our paperwork and head home. Our group is 11 babies but there must be at least 3 times that many here from what we saw in the short time we were here.

For a few pictures of the day click here, good night.

Day 8 Nanchung

2006-12-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

Our day started a little early today. Michela gave us a 3:30 wake up. After a diaper, ½ a bottle, and some play time she let us get another 1 ½ hrs sleep before we got up. Of course we had to wake her up!

We took a bus ride to a Chinese elementary school after breakfast. It was pretty interesting along with the over view of the school system by our guide. The school was private school and appeared to be a cross between party time and army camp for the kids. It almost seemed as if the kids had a switch on them. A lot of them spoke English there and we were sung to in Chinese and English.

Lunch time, you guessed it Chinese food, then back to the hotel. We put Michela and ourselves down for a nap.

At 4::30 she got up like clock work for her bottle. Then mom took Michela out outside with the rest of the kids before dinner while Dad went to pick up a few things Mommy ordered for Michela at a store next door.

Now for the good news, TOMORROW WE MOVE ON! We can’t wait since it means we start the end of our paperwork in Guangzhou. Not that we’re looking forward to the 3 plane rides that lay ahead of us yet, but at least we know we’re home at the end of them.

For a few pictures of today click here.

Day 7 Nanchung

2006-12-10T09:01:00.000-05:00

Another low key day, just counting down the time until we move on to the next stop then home. Dad was a little under the weather getting rid of a head cold this morning. Mommy took care of business by herself getting Michela ready to roll. After breakfast we all took naps and our guide found us some Tylenol Cold which seemed to do the trick. I should mention that we took our naps after Michela had her regular 10:00 “concentration session” while standing on Daddy. What’s she going to do when he goes back to work ;-(

After nap time Mommy gave Michela lunch and after eating and a little play time Michela decided to nap again. Well, Dad thought it was a good idea and joined her. At 3pm we got up and hit the bus, off to a street market area where we picked up some breakable odds and ends. Going to make for some fun packing ;-)

On the trip Michela let us know it was 4 hr’s since lunch and we fed her again on the bus before we headed home. When we got home we did a little walking around, Mom picked up another snow suit (good padding to pack breakable items in) and at 6 we had dinner. You guessed it, we had Chinese food.

Michela continues to eat as if food is a new experience. Just when we thought we were done with feeding her cheerios, and then a mixture of rice, scrambled egg and chopped up broccoli we made from the people food, they brought out this egg custard mush that we’ve given her before. She saw the plate and her eyes lit up and started grabbing for it, so we fed her a few more scoops of that stuff. That is until she saw the watermelon. She screamed until we handed her a piece and let her have her way with it.

Back at the room daddy gave her a bottle and now we had a happy but wired little girl looking to play. So we took her out to the common area and Michela and her friends did some baby Olympics. We let her go until she started to try to put her to sleep. At that point we brought her to the room, and she was asleep in about 15 minutes.

Oh almost forgot to mention we think she’s starting to cut her first teeth. She gums a lot and we’re feeling a little roughness there. She might have one in before we get home.

That’s it, for a few pictures you can click here.

Ruijin Care Takers

2006-12-09T09:26:00.000-05:00

For the group of you out there who have adopted from Ruijin before and asked us to bring your book along, we are sorry we didn’t get a lot more pictures for you. What we took of the caretakers and the director are here. By the way those of you along with us can find your babies too.

While we didn’t get a good picture of the book transfer, Corrado did notice the care takers all sitting around on the couch passing the book around. They were very interested and seemed to have appreciated it.

Day 6 Nanchung

2006-12-09T09:07:00.000-05:00

A pretty easy day was planned again today. The day started with Michela having breakfast, we had to wake her again, too bad for us ;-) Check out that nose in the pictures, all better! We then put her in a snow suit that we got here in Nanchung for $5. We think we might bring another home in fact.

The plan was for a walking tour to a Buddhist temple in the city and then lunch, planned to start at 9:30. Michela was just getting over the cold she had when we got her (and she gave to dad), so we as well as many, others skipped the tour and hung out. Michela decided it was a good time to catch a nap.

We fed her again, put on her snow suit that we got here for about $5.00, adn headed to lunch. We’re so happy with it we’re thinking of getting another. Lunch was….. an experience. The restaurant had some real local delicacies. Corrado figured it would be interesting when the lobby looked like a pet store. Sorry no pictures but imagine a good aquarium speciality shop with varieties of fish, shell fish, and turtles.

Then it was play time, another nap time, and dinner time. This time it was Pizza Hut in the hotel. We were all pretty happy for that lousy pizza, for a little while anyway. Good news is no one is outgrowing the clothes they brought with them…

Then is was bath, feeding, and bed time. Mommy was a little worried. But from the 2nd fill of the tub (take a guess what happened on the first fill) it was smooth sailing all the way. Michela loves the bath tub, we already told you she loves to eat, and getting her to bed is something we can’t complain about either.

We REALLY can’t wait to move on and head home now. Well that’s it for today, to check out the pictures from today click here.

Day 5 Nanchung

2006-12-08T07:20:00.000-05:00

Today was a "free day" for the group - much needed after yesterday's impromptu Walmart excursion excitement! We slept in, this morning until 7:30AM, and actually had to give Michela a gentle nudge to get her up, so we could get her dressed and fed and head down for breakfast. She is a great sleeper.

The big event for today was seeing the hotel clinic doctor. She came around to the room at the hotel and checked out the babies. Michela is fine - we just wanted the doctor to take a look at what appear to be little bite marks on her legs (maybe mosquito). She said that they were definitely not scabies (Thank Goodness) and we shouldn't be concerned. She said she looked very healthy except she is very small (she actually made reference to her being "very small" several times....not sure what we are supposed to do about that except continue to feed her, which believe me is NOT a problem.

We went out to lunch with the group and did a little local shopping. After we returned to the hotel, we played in the play room and later Mommy had an awesome one hour massage in the room for only $12 US. (Daddy and Michela played in the playroom with other members of our group). Mommy's relaxation was cut a little short when Daddy had to return to the room with a diaper emergency, apparently we had a leaky one and Michela needed a complete change. Since Mommy was still finishing up her massage - Daddy had to change his first diaper. Very entertaining for all of us: Michela, Mommy and the massage therapist. Fortunately, Mommy was done with her massage quickly, because although Daddy did a bang-up job changing the diaper - he did need assistance on picking out the outfit to change into. We were given some clothes from another family whose baby was too big for them - today Michela is fitting into an outfit sized 6 - 9 months, but I am betting that at the rate she is eating - she will not fit it by the time we get home!

She seems to be happier everyday, which we are thrilled about - and she cracks us up more and more with her antics and general happiness. Her laugh is truly contagious - and everything, especially Daddy, makes her laugh. She is truly a Daddy's girl. (By the way, you may notice in the picture that her nose is healing very nicely.)

Well, that's it for now, you can click here for pictures from today's adventures that consisted mainly of playing and a little sleeping.

By the way LaVida also published pictures of us to their web site. The link is here, and the general link to LaVida is on the side of this blog.

Day 4 Nanchung

2006-12-07T07:54:00.000-05:00

So we had a pretty good day today. We went to Wall Mart and received Michela’s official adoption certificate from China! Oh maybe I should mention it wasn’t in that order ;-)

Seems we have a baby that likes to sleep, at least so far. She slept through the night and while mom showered and dad watched TV. We got her up actually, changed a pretty full diaper. No pictures but I saved it for Anthony since he’s the God Father, it’s in the mail. We gave her 6oz. of formula and then went to breakfast and kept her eating while we eat or else she got a little bit mad at us. Rice cereal that they make here and some water melon kept her busy.

Next we started the paper work game visiting 2 official offices. One to do forms and answer questions related to the adoption certificate. Then another to basically re-do the same thing.

After the paperwork it was back into a bus to go to lunch, yes, you guessed it, Chinese food. Then another short bus ride and the group made a stop at Wal-Mart to pick up diapers, clothes, etc….

After the mini shopping excursion it was back to the hotel. The floor we are on has a little play room area so we let Michela do her thing. She’s quite the little crawler, makes it across the room pretty quick and when we cuffed her pants she can use objects to pick herself up. Click here for some pictures of her romps today….

We didn’t get any pictures of the official paperwork process however. Seems uploading pictures at midnight over a few beers isn’t a good idea because someone forgot to put the CF card back into the camera!

Our Wait is OVER!

2006-12-06T10:22:00.000-05:00

Ok this is going to be a quick one! We have our beautiful baby girl Michela. She's a real little peanut who's been through a lot. Among all her trials and tribulations she's got a rasberry on her little nose. Seems she a tough little cookie who likes to climb, and we found out first hand tonight after putting her to bed!

Here's a link to some pictures from today complete with some descriptions. Also you can see all the pictures from the trip so far here if you want to catch up.

Melissa will be back tomorrow with more details, Dad's gonna finish his TSINGTAO (only $0.40) and go to bed now.

Good night....

Arrived in Nanchang - Tomorrow is the Big Day!

2006-12-05T11:18:00.000-05:00

Wow, I cannot believe how much we saw today. As I look back on it, it seems like it has been several days all mixed together. We started the day with a good breakfast and off on the bus by 8AM. (Woke up this morning around 4:30AM - wide awake, not tired at all.) Our first stop was the Forbidden City, which was pretty cool (and pretty cold!) Then we went to a Jade Factory, where we shopped and then had lunch (it was weird that the restaurant, factory, store was all in one). We bought some nice little presents for Michela (trying to buy her some gifts for over the years to celebrate her adoption day - the goal is to collect 18 gifts for 18 celebrations). Then we headed off to the Great Wall. That was awesome! A bunch of us did it together, we have some great pictures, and really had fun. (I don't have the group pictures, but will get them from everyone else, later). Then we headed to the airport for a 7:30 flight to Nancheng. By this time everyone was pretty exhausted and the flight was completely filled. It was a miserable two hour flight - hardest part of the trip so far. But we survived, arrived around 9:30PM, got on a bus and landed here in our hotel, which is very nice.

Tomorrow is the big day - we go to get Michela at 3:30PM (2:30AM at home). We head over to a government building to get her. Then we will bring her back to the hotel and hang out with the group. Our hotel is very nice, and there is a room in the center of our floor that has little rocking horses and a play area for the babies. This will be cool. There is also a crib in our room, which I will have in the pictures that I am linking, just click here .

It was a great day, but tomorrow should be the best!

We Have Arrived In Beijing

2006-12-04T09:44:00.000-05:00

We are here safe and sound - and a little tired (but not too bad). When we arrived at JFK airport we found the members of our group that we have been emailing with, which was really nice. We are all so excited, and a little nervous With the four families in our group that we have been hanging around with, we are the only first time parents, so we should have some good support. We have not had the opportunity to get to know the rest of the group (10 families total including us) but I am sure we will very soon.

We arrived in Beijing at 6:30PM (5:30AM at home). It took us a little over an hour to get through customs and on our bus. (I think I won the prize for the most luggage - but I did finish reading a book on the plane and left it behind - thereby lightening the load a little). The plane ride (13.5 hours) was not bad at all. Corrado and I were lucky to get three seats to ourselves, which made it quite comfortable (not as comfortable as first class would have been, but actually quite nice). Once the group was loaded on the bus we headed to a restaurant in Beijing where we had a really good dinner. Everyone is exhausted, but excited and happy to be here.

As far as Beijing is concerned, it looks allot like NYC, but much more pollution. Of course, we only drove from the airport to the restaurant (which took about an hour with traffic) and then to the hotel which is five minutes from the restaurant. The hotel is nice. We have a 6:30AM (5:30PM at home) wake up call and need to be ready to board the sightseeing bus with the group at 8AM. We will tour the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, and then continue on to the airport where we will catch a plane to Nanchang (not sure of spelling and too tired to look it up right now). They definitely keep us moving here. It will be about a two hour flight and then we go to the next hotel. Then comes the highlight of the trip - we meet Michela. There aren't many pictures from today, but hope to have more tomorrow.

Hello to everyone at home!

Packing is Finally Complete

2006-12-02T23:16:00.000-05:00

Who knew packing could be so difficult? Now I know why all those other people out there practice packing in advance. I am not sure how, but I am sure that we have most likely forgotten something really important. It is after 11AM and we will be in a car and on our way to the airport in less than twelve hours. I am exhausted and can't wait to go to bed. There are many people that I should have called before I left, please forgive me - but I have been going non-stop since we found out about the trip five days ago. We will post again when we get to China - if all goes well!

An interesting note: we received our referral one month ago today. WOW, this is moving really fast - which is great news since we can't wait to get Michela in our arms! Corrado said he will be eating cheerios every day for breakfast, just so he doesn't have to pack them for the return trip - he has so much to learn.

Our Travel Itinerary

2006-12-01T22:15:00.000-05:00

I think I have finally gotten just about all the things I need for the trip. I have every possible medication imaginable. I should be ready for anything.....I guess we will see how that goes. The rooms are in pretty good shape, exersaucers and strollers are put together. Our plane tickets arrived today. Tomorrow we will put the car seat into the car, and we should be ready to go.

The following is our itinerary and we hope to keep everyone updated on a daily basis while we are in China.

Sunday, December 3rd: Depart for China

Monday, December 4th: Arrive in Beijing

Tuesday, December 5th: Sight see in Beijing (The Great Wall, Forbidden City, etc.) and depart for the Jiangxi Province.

Wednesday, December 6th: Begin China Adoption (meet our little Michela) thru the 12th.

Tuesday Evening, December 12th: Fly to Guangzhou (Where US Consulate is located)

Wednesday, December 13th, 2006: Doctor's Exam

Thursday, December 14th, 2006: US INS Processing (HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISSY)

Friday, December 15th, 2006: Pick up visas

Saturday, December 16th, 2006: Return home with our baby girl

We will keep you posted with details and lots of pictures. Also check out the La Vida link on the side of the blog, they will be taking pictures of us in China and posting them there. We couldn't have asked for a better Christmas present!

China Here We Come

2006-11-29T12:10:00.000-05:00

It looks like we are heading to China this weekend. Based on the early information, (still ironing out the logistics) we will be leaving for China on Sunday afternoon. That's right, this Sunday, December 3rd, and we should be coming home around Saturday, December 16th. It looks like Michela will be in our arms on Wednesday, December 6th. This will be a short post, as I have a ton of things to run around and do. I will post more information later.

It's Time To Start Packing - And Really FAST!

2006-11-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

So, we will know more tomorrow, once the agency is able to confirm the requested consulate appointment, but it looks like we may have an early Christmas present! We will probably travel soon, but I will have more information tomorrow, and I will post as soon as I get more details. I can't believe we are so close to getting our little girl, and to have her before Christmas is more than I ever expected.... I am soooooooo excited!

Travel Assignments Have Arrived

2006-11-28T12:40:00.000-05:00

Travel Assignments have arrived at our agency. I am waiting for them to call with more details, and will post again once I have them. Let's say a few prayers that we travel before Christmas!

Michela is 10 Months Old Tomorrow

2006-11-19T13:35:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe that our little girl is 10 months old tomorrow, and we still haven't met her yet. I hope that she is being cuddled and loved while we anxiously await holding her in our arms. I think about her non-stop and cannot wait to go and get her.

Our visas arrived on Friday, which means we have made some progress. We are still awaiting our TAs, but we should hopefully be hearing something fairly soon. Corrado has been working very hard on the playroom, which will be done today. It is a very loud green, and I love it! Can't wait to move all her toys in and finish putting the nursery together. Things are moving along well here, slowly but surely.

Maple turned 1 year old on Wednesday. I can't believe that our puppy is becoming a dog!

So What Happens Next????

2006-11-10T18:29:00.000-05:00

This seems to be the second most popular question - the first being: When will she get here??? I am sure it will come as no surprise that we are once again in the "wait" mode. Now we are waiting for our visas to come through - and even more important - for our our travel assignments to come from China. China will issue us an invitation (travel assignment) letting us know that we can come and get Michela. (This will take anywhere from 2 to 5 weeks.) Once our agency receives this, they will request a meeting at the Consulate in China. Once the agency receives this date, they immediately work on our travel arrangements. We will travel about two weeks prior to our appointment at the Consulate - as our appointment is the finalization of our adoption and the last stop before heading home as a family of three. (Three and a half if we count Maple.)

We are hoping that we will go by Christmas, but the agency has advised us not to get our hopes up. In the meantime, we will send a care package to Michela so she knows that we are thinking about her and can't wait to meet her. We will include a disposable camera so that her foster family can take pictures of her in their home. I think she will appreciate having them, some day.

The Stork, In Person

2006-11-10T17:59:00.000-05:00

For those of you who were wondering, this is what the stork really looks like, and China is where babies come from! Saturday afternoon, the much awaited "package" was delivered to us, giving us a whole bunch of information about Michela. (Would have preferred that he brought her, but this was the next best thing!)

The beautiful pictures that we have all been ooing and ahhing over were in our package, and I never get tired of staring at them. She is so beautiful it amazes me.

In addition to her pictures, we had more details about Michela - only problem, it was in Chinese. The only information that was translated was her medical information - which I am happy to say all seems good. There were some things that we were able to read - as they were both in English and Chinese. The report was dated June 23, 2006 (so we can assume that the pictures show Michela at about 5 months old).

Her birthday is January 20, 2006 and she is currently living with a foster family. (This is good news because she will be receiving more individualized care, attention, and hopefully lots of love.) She is a moderate sleeper, she holds her head up while lying on her stomach, she picks up small things, she knows her name and turns when she is called, distinguishes between acquaintances and strangers, she has a ready smile and laughs out loud.

Being the type of person that I am, I needed to know more about her and didn't have the patience to wait for the our adoption agency to send me their translation. I spent two hours on the phone Monday morning trying every university around looking for someone to translate the information immediately. No Luck! Then my girlfriend suggested I try our Chinese Restaurant. What an awesome idea!!! I called Rosa at the Peking Duck House, and she was fantastic! She told me to come right down, and then spent about 20 minutes reviewing and translating. Here is what we now know about our baby girl:

She was found at the gate of the Ruijin Bus station on February 1, 2006. She was brought to the orphanage where she was checked out by a doctor. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like a note was left with her - and the doctor calculated her birthday based on her size and health. She was very small and weak, but healthy. From there, she was sent to foster care where her foster parents have been taken good care of her and fattening her up. She likes to watch TV, listen to music, go outside, and loves to take a bath. She is eating quite well.

The next step was to accept the referral and try to bring our baby girl home as quickly as possible. Corrado and I signed the paperwork and sent it back to the agency on Tuesday. There was allot of paperwork to fill out, along with applications for a visa. We were thrilled to learn that all ten families adopting babies through our agencies accepted their referrals by Wednesday. This means that our agency was able to quickly send a request to China for our travel assignments. The quicker we can get those the quicker we can get our babies.

Just Wanted to Put Her Picture Up Again

2006-11-03T13:09:00.000-05:00

She is so cute, wanted to make sure it was the first thing everyone sees!

Jiangxi Province

2006-11-03T06:40:00.000-05:00

Here is a map of China so that you can see where Michela (Jin Chun Lan) is waiting for us to come and bring her home.

I didn't write much about yesterday's experience, since I cannot put into words the feelings that came over me. I don't think that I have ever been so happy as I was when I got the call. I received the call at 1:20PM and called Corrado with the news that he was a daddy at 1:24PM. Corrado immediately headed home from the office, so that we could open her emailed picture together. The email came from the agency at 2:24pm and we opened it at about 3:15PM (once Corrado walked in the door). The wait was worth it to see her beautiful face. We printed out several pictures and ran around to show our family the picture in person. Everyone was excited - and we were quite the proud parents!

I cannot wait to go and get her, to find out more about her, and to bring her home and never let her go. I can't wait to hold her, squeeze those chubby cheeks, and kiss that sweet face.

Here is some more information on Jiangxi, the "Capital of Porcelain"

Jiangxi (literally means west of river), called Gan for short, lies to the south of the Yangtze River valley, and is named for being situated west of the Ganjiang River.
Jiangxi Province is rich in mineral deposits. Tungsten ore, copper ore, lead ore, zinc ore, and rock salt are the main minerals in the province. It is a major producer of rice, mandarin orange, tea and freshwater fish. The province is also famous for its local traditional products: china made in Jingdezhen, porcelain pictures made in Nanchang, Qianshan bamboo handcraft, tealeaves from Lushan Mountain, and bamboo shoots in Jinggang Mountain, etc.
Jiangxi Province has many beautiful mountains, rivers and historical relics. Lushan Mountain, Sanqing Mountain, and Longhu Mountain are among the most famous mountains in China. It is a province with glorious revolutionary history; its places of historic interest include Jinggang Mountain, Ruijin, Nanchang and Anyuan. Lushan Mountain, famous for its elegance, steepness and oddness, with its main peak at 1,474 meters above sea level on the lakeshore, is a famous tourist spot. The Bailu Academy was one of the Four Great Academies of Classical Learning in the past.
The highlight of Jiangxi travel should be Jingdezhen, which is known as the "Capital of Porcelain" in China. Porcelains were produced here as early as 1,800 years ago in the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Today, Jingdezhen remains a national center of porcelain production.

(copied from Chinaculture.org)

Introducing Our Baby Girl!

2006-11-02T22:10:00.000-05:00

Corrado and Melissa are proud to introduce our baby girl!

Jin Chun Lan

Born January 20, 2006

She is from the Jiangxi Province

She is waiting for us at Ruijin Institute

CCAA Website Update - WE MADE IT!

2006-11-02T08:35:00.000-05:00

The CCAA Website has been updated and it goes up to (and should include) 8/25/05. THIS MEANS WE'RE IN. I am sitting here waiting by the phone, so excited I don't know what to do with myself. I have cancelled all appointments for the day - so I can sit by the phone and wait. I have my pad and pen, my list of people to call (so I don't forget anyone - and if I do, please forgive me!). This is better than giving birth, I can eat - and eventually drink if the call doesn't come until later. Let's hope La Vida gets the package today - and early.

To all my fellow LIDers, up to 8/25....CONGRATULATIONS!

Stork Alert

2006-11-01T11:36:00.000-05:00

This is a special alert from the Referral Broadcasting System.

From the Referral Broadcasting Center WED, NOVEMBER 1, 2006, 11:38AM.

The existing Referral Watch has officially been upgraded to a Referral Warning for the members of the August, 2005 DTC group by the Referral Broadcasting Center.
This Referral Warning is in effect for all of North America for the next 7 days. Disturbances in the Pacific jet stream indicate the departure of the silver stork. Further, several North Americanagencies have hinted that the silver stork may have already departed Mainland China, but the exact contents of the package it was carrying are unknown at this time.
Those whose dossiers are part of the Referral Warning area should take urgent and immediate steps to be sure they can be reached at all times; including such drastic measures as affixing your cordless phone or cell phone to your head with duct tape. It is also strongly recommended that you have ample supply of paper, writing instruments and tissues nearby. If you receive the Referral call while driving, immediately pull over to a safe spot off the roadway to prevent unintended injury to yourself or to others.
Be aware that once an actual referral post appears on APC from a referral call within North America, conditions on this board and many others will dramatically decline for the remaining waiting families. Take appropriate steps now to prepare your heart and mind for an extended wait. Remember that your Social Worker might be in an important meeting and unable to call for another 15 minutes; or the Traffic Gods may have the Fed Ex driver whose truck containsyour referral packet held up in traffic. Rest assured that a swarm of ladybugs will swoop in and remove the roadblocks. These situations are completely out of your hands.
Those who are up next for sharing Referral news on this list should take notes now to be sure you provide your fellow listmates with appropriate information. Do not attempt to remember by heart what you need to post once you are under the influence of Referral Call Brain. Please post your family’s name in the referral line, your child’s name, birthdate, and SWI location; as well as the age child requested. Use of special characters such as #, $, %, &, @, or ^i^ in your Referral announcement heading is left to your personal discretion and preference.
> - END OF MESSAGE - Referral Broadcasting Network

The above message was posted to the Rumor Queen, thought it was so, so cute - had to add it to my blog.

RQ is showing strong rumors that referrals are on their way, and that 8/24 is probably included. Let's keep our fingers crossed, say a prayer, and see what happens! REMEMBER, THIS DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT WE WILL BE GETTING A REFERRAL, JUST THAT IT IS BELIEVED THAT THEY ARE ON THEIR WAY. THIS IS STILL A RUMOR (A STRONG RUMOR) BUT STILL A RUMOR!

Still No Word

2006-10-30T21:34:00.000-05:00

This will be a quick post, as there is still no news. The Rumor Queen site is starting to suggest that there are rumors that we may not get referrals this month at all, and there may be a lengthy delay due to issues in China. Not sure what that means, not sure what to think at all any more. Just taking it one long day at a time.

Sunday Night....Still Waiting

2006-10-29T21:59:00.000-05:00

Well, it is Sunday night - 10PM (11AM) in China and the CCAA website is still not updated with referral dates. There is a cyberslumber party on the Rumor Queen Website, but I have to call it a night. Waiting to see what tomorrow brings.

Stop the Insanity

2006-10-28T07:15:00.000-04:00

This week has been unbelievably insane. I have not been able to leave the Rumor Queen site, and we are still no closer to knowing if we will be getting a referral or not. I have saved everyone the drama of updating this blog with the twists and turns that have been going on with this week's roller coaster ride. Let me tell you, The Magic Kingdom needs to create the "Adoption Thrill Ride" roller coaster - which would be the ultimate, longest and craziest roller coaster ever - with a final ending rivaling no roller coaster on earth. Anyway, this week I thought we were in; then I was sure we weren't; then oh my god - maybe; then it's OK, we will definitely be in next month and it's OK it will give us one more month to finish all the last minute things that need to be done; then...........

Last night, when I finally accepted that there is no way we will be included, and decided that I am not going to check the Internet all weekend, since surely nothing will happen before the Monday, I get a call from a member of my August La Vida Group (these are a great group of people that are all part of our adoption agency with LID in August. We formed a yahoo group a few months ago, as we anticipated that we would all be traveling to China together to get our little ones) asking me if I have been reading the emails from the group - and did I get a call from La Vida? Well, after I picked my heart up off the floor, I realized that I hadn't been checking my yahoo group all this time - assuming the Rumor Queen site would have the info before anyone - and now I am in total shock. (Mind you I was the genius that set up the yahoo group so we could all be in touch at this time - go figure). Anyway, I start freaking out saying, what do you mean? People got referrals? What emails? Oh my God, did we miss the phone call from the agency - impossible one of us was home all day..........(well you can guess where this is going). So once I calm down enough to make sense (OK, kinda make sense) Mary gives me the update...and here it is for you:

Apparently, three families in our August group received phone calls from La Vida today, nootifying them that they were not included in this month's batch of referrals. They were all understandably heart broken (can you imagine, waiting for La Vida to call, they finally call and you expect to hear all about your new bundle of joy, only to hear - sorry not this month. No one ever told us we would be getting a "not this month" call). Now this is where the plot thickens, since our first word of this is that the agency mentioned that the referrals will go out to 8/25 and these people are all LID 8/23. Apparently, La Vida received word from CCAA (China Center of Adoptions) that LaVida would be receiving a package of referrals on Monday (yes - this means that we will know one way or the other on Monday for sure) and they were given the names of families that would be included in this batch. Since they expected these three 8/23 families to be included - but weren't, they contacted CCAA to get some clarification. The only clarification that they appear to have received was that these families were skipped (no reason) but would be included in the November batch. So, where does this leave things? I"M NOT SURE, go figure! Are the referrals only going to 8/23 and our La Vida group will get referrals together next month? Are referrals going to 8/25 and we are in Monday's batch? (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I found all of this out at 6pm and it was too late to reach LaVida to ask them my million questions that were going through my head- I did leave a message, though) The drama continues, stay tuned...............

For the three families in our group that received the call from La Vida, my heart goes out to all of you.

From Torture to Disappointment

2006-10-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

According to the Rumor Queen Website, we will not be getting our referral this month. An agency in Spain has confirmed that we missed the cut-off date by one day. The cut-off includes 8/23/05 LID and we are 8/24/05. It looks like we will be waiting another month.

The Wait is Torture!

2006-10-19T22:36:00.000-04:00

We are so close to getting the news on this month's referrals - it is driving me mad! We may be included, we may not. We may actually be the date of the cut-off, either way......I cannot leave the computer, don't want to leave the house, and cannot concentrate on anything other than the rumor site updates. This is so exciting, but still driving me crazy. UUUGGHHHHHHHHHH!

Latest Rumor

2006-10-18T09:17:00.000-04:00

The latest rumor on the Rumor Queen site is a strong one. It says that 8/23 will be included in this month's referrals - we are 8/24. This rumor isn't saying that it stops at 8/23, just that it will be definitely have 8/23. Since Corrado actually saw a Ladybug in his office yesterday, I am betting that we will get our referral this month. The RQ is also saying that the referrals will be coming out EARLY next week. Let's hope this is it!

Moving Along

2006-10-07T11:23:00.000-04:00

Last night's Autumn Moon Celebration timed perfectly with a visit from my sister Kim, and her husband Jimmy. They stayed over last night (came up from VA) and we had a big celebratory dinner with the whole "Layne" clan. It was fun having both my sisters here, we don't get to do that too often. We tried to see the moon, but unfortunately it was a very cloudy evening. I did go out and make the wish that Michela is well, and coming home to us soon. (Of course, I asked that everyone else make the same wish - that's just my type "a" personality shining through.) We had a great dinner, great wine, and of course, great dessert.

Today begins the destruction, followed by the construction, of the kitchen. During this project, Corrado will be making some wine, and I will be finishing emptying the playroom so that it can be finished next. Of course, with all this going on, Maple will be sure to get into some trouble, but that is just to be expected....

Update on the paperwork is that the social worker (Esta) is just about done with our homestudy update, our physicals are complete, I have received my second hepatitis vaccine (a little late, but at least done) and everything is moving along.

This will be a very busy and exciting month!

First Rumor of the Month

2006-10-05T20:58:00.000-04:00

The Rumor Queen has provided us with the first rumor of the month, which is very exciting news. The rumor is that October's referrals will include the log in date of 8/24/05........THIS MEANS US!

Now, don't get too excited, since the rumor is not very credible. It is way early for rumors, there are many questions about how anyone could possibly know this, and the RQ rated it an R2 on a scale from R1 to R5 (R5 being most credible).

Now, add this news to the news that Ellen (good friend and neighbor) had a ladybug siting in her house on Monday. This is a big deal, as she has not had a lady bug siting in a long time.

Anyway, it did make my day, cause for a little excitement!

Referral Time of the Month

2006-09-26T10:40:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was an exciting day! Referrals are up to August 9th. This means that there are only 15 days of applications ahead of us. Next month is going to be a nail biter. We may make it to a referral, or we will definitely know that we will be in November. I believe that we will be waiting until November, but that means that we will be having one incredible Thanksgiving - either way!

Yesterday was an incredibly good day. It started out with a meeting with the social worker who is updating our homestudy. (She is great!) Basically, after going through the report from last time, nothing has changed. I did tell her that she needed to highlight the one most important change, which is that I am 10 pounds lighter than when we did the report last time.

I am just about finished registering for all the baby items. My sister, Chrissy, and I spent about three hours yesterday at Buy Buy Baby and it was quite the experience, for both us and the store staff. We whizzed around the aisles with baby carriages comparing how they maneuvered, we tried on baby carriers, blasted baby cds, and finally finished the list. Who knew picking out baby items could be so difficult???

Finally, Corrado and I went out to dinner last night, and over a chocolate martini I gave him a new list of things that had to be done before the baby comes (which now is really, truly, right around the corner).

Yesterday was really a great day!!!!!

For all those that received referrals yesterday - CONGRATULATIONS! For those still waiting, hang in there - it is getting closer!

Rollercoaster Time

2006-09-21T10:39:00.000-04:00

We are close to the end of the month when the latest referrals will come out. I have been checking the Rumor Queen site several times a day, and this go round the rumors are quite positive. Rumors are saying that the referrals this month could go up to August LID. Possibly well into August, which means we are really getting close now. I'll keep you posted as soon as the new referrals are out.

Parent Training

2006-09-15T14:05:00.000-04:00

Maple is our ten month old pup who is waiting to be Michela's best friend. I have been working dilligently with a trainer (and Maple) to teach her the best manners before Michela arrives. Let's just say she is coming along - in her own time frame.

Today, I realized that Maple has actually been training me in what life will be like with Michela around. I am sitting here with the second day of torrential rain, praying for sunshine so that Maple can run around the yard and burn off some energy. (She does it anyway, but it is a little cleaner without the rain and mud.) As I was sitting in the office doing paperwork today, she comes over, climbs on my lap, reaches up for hugs, and wants constant attention (since she is bored). This is when the lightbulb goes on......how many times have I heard my friends and family (with children) say, I can't take the rain, the kids are driving me crazy. Now I get it!

Maple has also been good to help us remember not to leave things laying around, as she will find them, bring them to us, and chew them right in front of us (prescription med bottles included). Recently, I told her trainer that Maple is tending to act up at night around 8pm. She barks, nips, and seems to want to play rough. The trainer said, she may be overtired......sounding familiar to you moms out there?????

Anyway, Maple is really a good pup, and I am thrilled we have her. She has made the wait over the last few months easier by keeping me busy. She has also been keeping things lively here, as the house grew way to quiet after Sheena was gone. All in all, I wouldn't trade her for anything, (no matter how many times Corrado threatens her with going back to the shelter) and I believe that Michela is going to have her first best friend in Maple.

Paperwork is Almost Done, Yeah

2006-09-14T21:13:00.000-04:00

I have spent just about the whole day working on this paperwork, and I am happy to say that progress has been made! I am making copies and sending it out tomorrow, with the checks!! The homestudy update is scheduled for the end of the month, and so are our fourth set of fingerprint appointments. I know this will all be worth it in the end.....

Now for my reward.......going to the store to register for baby items. I am so excited, I can't wait to start looking at all the fun stuff. It will be my first real shopping trip for Michela's things, and I am so looking forward to it.

In the meantime, my incredible girlfriend (what would we do without them??), Eileen has provided me with another load of awesome toys. Eileen has given me just about everything I need, and I do mean everything (crib, mattress, bedding, glider, artwork, toys, toys, toys, booster chair, pack and play, did I mention toys?, changing table, and way more than I can list). All the things are in perfect condition. (Eileen, THANK YOU). Poor Michael and Jacob were barely finished with these things as they were being loaded into my car. I am incredibly lucky to have so much support and such great friends and family. Michela is going to be one very lucky girl!

Keeping Busy

2006-08-31T11:43:00.000-04:00

Rumors are already out that the next referral batch (for the end of September) will only cover July and still not go to August. Rumors are tuff, you are dying to find out only the good stuff and don't want to believe the bad.

Anyway, there are lots of things to keep us busy over the next few months:

Giants Season has started, and Corrado is going to be missing in action. Tailgate parties galore. I wonder if he has been talking to the Chinese Center for Adoption to see if they can just drag this out for one more football season. (Only kidding)
We have to start getting the play room ready, which entails finding a home for all the items piled in that room. Once I get that done, Corrado steps in to do the "manly" things - mouldings, painting, etc.
The first thing that I have to focus on (like this week) is the completion of all the adoption approval update paperwork. You see, due to the extended wait, we are in danger of our US adoption approval to expire. This means all of the paperwork that we did in February 2005 has to be re-done. This means: new physicals, new fingerprints (this will be the fourth set of fingerprints - aren't they supposed to be the same for life????), a whole lot of photocopying, an updated home study by our social worker (this is OK, as she is really nice!), and a whole lot of check writing....(this is where we start depleting Michela's college fund before she even gets here!) It's all OK, it will be worth it in the end.
Time to start thinking of the things that we still need for Michela and the trip to China. This will requirel a great deal of shopping - I will need to start gearing up for that challenge. I think I can handle it, all that working out with the personal trainer will come in handy!
We have to continue to train Maple to be the perfect dog before Michela gets here - this will probably be the biggest challenge!
And there is always the never ending work for the animal shelter that needs attention.

Well, I guess that I should start doing some of the things on this list, and as for Corrado....tonight is a Giants game - so he is doing his part!

Latest Referrals

2006-08-28T18:45:00.000-04:00

The latest referrals came out while we were enjoying our island getaway. I must admit, I was not very relaxed knowing that we were on vaction during the week that the referrals tend to come out. During the third week of the month, I usually check the CCAA and Rumor Queen websites about ten times a day - hoping that there will be a large number of referrals that will bring us that much closer to our getting our referral. Many times I tried calling people while sitting on the beach in Aruba, asking that they check the sites for news. As a matter of fact, the first thing I did when I got home Sunday night (even before we went to pick up Maple from her little vacation spot) was check the websites!

And......the news is that referrals were sent out for those people with a LID before July 22, 2005. Last month they did up to July 13th. This means they did nine days worth, which means they seemed to have slowed down again, UGGHHH!!!

The good news is that we are August 24th LID and they are getting closer to that date, slowly but surely. The guestimates are now saying that we should expect our referrals in October or November. It is getting closer!!!!

One Year LID Anniversary

2006-08-20T16:39:00.000-04:00

Our one year LID (log in date to China) anniversary is fast approaching. As of August 24, 2005, China was officially in receipt of our adoption application paperwork. At that time, it was estimated that we would receive our daughter's information (referral) in 6 - 7 months (Feb or March of 2006). Well, things change and life goes on..... BUT, we really are getting close now, and Corrado and I will be on vacation as our one year anniversary (LID) arrives. I am not sure that we will have the opportunity to celebrate with a Chinese dinner, but I will check into it.

If you get the chance, have Chinese food for dinner on Thursday, August 24th, and celebrate for us! Make a little wish that we meet our little girl soon!

(By the way, Sushi isn't Chinese food and doesn't count - well it can if you want, it is asian!)

The Price of Children

2006-08-20T16:16:00.000-04:00

The government recently calculated the cost of raising a child from birth to 18 and came up with $160,140 for a middle income family. Talk about sticker shock! That doesn'teven touch college tuition. But $160,140 isn't so bad if you break it down.

It translates into:

* $8,896.66 a year,

* $741.38 a month, or

* $171.08 a week.

* That's amere $24.24 a day!

* Just over a dollar an hour.

Still, you might think the best financial advice is "don't have children if you want to be rich." Actually, it is just the opposite. What do you get for your$160,140?

* Naming rights... First, middle, and last!

* Glimpses of God every day.

* Giggles under the covers every night.

* More love than your heart can hold.

* Butterfly kisses and Velcro hugs.

* Endless wonder over rocks, ants, clouds, and warm cookies.

* A hand to hold, usually covered with jelly or chocolate.

* A partner for blowing bubbles, flying kites

* Someone to laugh yourself silly with, no matter what the boss said or how your stocks performed that day.

For $160,140, you never have to grow up.You get to:

* finger-paint,

* carve pumpkins,

* play hide-and-seek,

* catch lightning bugs, and

* never stop believing in Santa Claus.

You have an excuse to:

* keep reading the Adventures of Piglet and Pooh,

* watching Saturday morning cartoons,

* going to Disney movies, and

* wishing on stars.

* You get to frame rainbows, hearts, and flowers under refrigerator magnets and collect spray painted noodle wreaths for Christmas, handprints set in clay for Mother's Day, and cards with backward letters for Father'sDay.

For $160,140, there is no greater bang for your buck.You get to be a hero just for:

* retrieving a Frisbee off the garage roof,

* taking the training wheels off a bike,

* removing a splinter,

* filling a wading pool,

* coaxing a wad of gum out of bangs, and coaching a baseball team that never wins but always gets treated to ice cream regardless.

You get a front row seat to history to witness the:

* first step,

* first word,

* first bra,

* first date, and

* first time behind the wheel.

You get to be immortal. You get another branch added to your family tree, and if you're lucky, a long list of limbs in your obituary called grandchildren and great-grandchildren. You get an education in psychology, nursing, criminal justice, communications, and human sexuality that no college can match. In the eyes of a child, you rank right up there under God. You have all the power to heal a boo-boo, scare away the monsters under the bed, patch a broken heart, police a slumber party, ground them forever, and love them without limits, So one day they will, like you, love without counting the cost. That is quite a deal for the price!!!!!!!

How The Babies Are Matched

2006-08-10T11:09:00.000-04:00

I found this on someone else's blog and found it very interesting. Here is a glimpse into the process of how Michela will find us:

Amy Eldridge's Interview in the Matching Room (2002):

I have been to the CCAA and will be going there again next month when the OrphanRelief Fund officially launches. I have asked hundreds of questions to them on how things are done. I'll try to answer some that have come up here.

1) It is not random, single file, as in "baby 1 in stack with parent 1 instack." There are 8 lovely young women in the matching room who DO look at your condensed info on the computer screen and then look through about 5-6 baby files to see which one is the best fit. You are most definitely MATCHED. It can be from the appearance on those passport photos (your dossier photos never make it to the matching room, they are used for review), it can be by hobby (baby who loves music beingmatched to a woman who loves piano), (Jen, I think this means we should hold off on buying the piano!) it can be by meaning of the baby's name (baby whose name means "flower" being matched to a family who runs a nursery), or many other factors. The woman I watched matching said that sometimes she holds a baby's file up tothe computer screen and it is just a perfect match for no understandable reason. Sometimes it has to do with age.....for instance, if there is an agency group with six families and then six babies, and one parent is 60 while another is 35,they might put the youngest child with the youngest couple. But not always! And that is because another feature might have jumped out to why a match needed to be made.

2) Baby files are on one side, color coded by province and orphanage, and parents' files are also color coded by agency. Of course they try to keep agency groups together if possible, so if it is a huge group of families, they will pull an orphanage who sends more children. That is why every so often you will see an agency with 12 referrals from Hunan and one lone referral from Guangdong. They tried to keep them all together, but there weren't enough babies from that orphanage that month.

3) Why are some kids not adopted? There is an unwritten quota system in place where only 10,000 children can be adopted internationally each year, and tha tnumber is for all countries who do adoptions with China. Each year an orphanage is told how many children to send forward. My own daughter's orphanage was only allowed 9 adoptions a year, but just got the news in February that they can send 36 children this year! How do they pick which ones? How would any of us? Can you imagine making that decision? Most orphanages send the children they think will adapt the best, although we have seen an increasing number of children being referred who have health issues, which leads me to believe that a lot of orphanage directors, now knowing the incredible love and care that these kids receive overseas, aresending children's files on kids they truly care about and want in a home.

4) Regarding the matching room people not having a lot of time because ofother work to do......the CCAA is made up of so many departments. One doesn'thave anything to do with the other. The review department checks the dossiers for accuracy and proper information. They have nothing to do with referrals. The referral department makes the matches and that is all they do. The special needs department is completely separate. And TAs (Travel Assignments)and referrals have absolutely nothing to do with each other. The TA department is completely separate, which is why one doesn' tcome at the same timeas the other.I specifically asked them about families getting a second child from the same orphanage. There are two basic ways it would happen 1) the family just happens to come up at the same time as that orphanage (true for especially large orphanages who do 100+ adoptions a year). I think for most families who end upwith a second baby from the same place, it is from these larger SWIs who always have children at the CCAA or 2) the facilitator is very active at the CCAA and makes it very clear to those doing referrals that the family wants another baby from the same place. In the past, this was much more likely to happen, but once all the new regulations and the points system were introduced, agencies were much less likely to go out on a limb for this request. That is why the number of families having this wish granted drastically fell last year. I think we will see an increase in this again, though, now that the points system is falling bythe wayside. There are all of these beautiful children there my daughter's age whose files have not been sent. There is no way to stand there and hug those kids and NOT think "this could have been my daughter's life". I know child after child there who are 10, 12, 14, 16......and who have lived their whole life in the orphanage. They are beautiful, funny, incredible kids (that I wish I could sneakhome). They themselves struggle with "why not me?" I have been told stories that have broken my heart about those who grow up knowing they were never chosen for adoption. There is no answer on the "why". All it does it make me that much more thankful that I have been blessed with the gift of sharing Anna's life and that much more determined to help those still there have the best life possible.In our family, the way we have dealt with those questions is by telling our kids they certainly can do their part to love those still there, whether it is as simple as drawing pictures to send to their SWIs to hang on the walls, or giving up part of their allowance to help sponsor a child or buy supplies through oneof the many charities doing work there. China's official statement is that only 2% of orphans find homes, so there can never be enough people helping in any way possible. They use the dossier photos to basically back-up the homestudy. It is just par tof your overall "review". I guess if you sent in a photo with 200 beer bottles in the background or 10 snarling pit bull dogs, it might cause them to call youragency. :-) They are just used to show that you do have a nice life and a baby would be welcomed into your home. I think that is the reason why some agencies are so strict with what can and can't be in the pictures (such as pets, tattoos, etc.)"

Chinese Symbolism

2006-08-09T09:35:00.000-04:00

Here is some interesting Chinese Adoption Symbolism:

THE RED THREAD

The red thread is a Chinese saying that an invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but will never break, and this is how families are created.

LADYBUGS

In the adoption community, the Ladybug is an omen of good luck. A Ladybug sighting is also said to be a sign that referrals are imminent. Please be gentle with the ladybugs!

About the Name.... Michela

2006-08-03T09:20:00.000-04:00

Corrado and I have known the name that we would use for our little girl for quite some time, it seemed pretty simple at first. My suggestion, and Corrado's quick agreement, was to name the baby after Corrado's Mom. Now, there are many of you out there that may be stumped by this, since Corrado's Mom goes by the name Lena. I too was confused at first, although I knew that her name was actually Michela, the spelling had me stumped. I saw it spelled Michaela, thought it was Michella, but we have finally confirmed that it is Michela....very pretty don't you think? (Pronounced: mikayla). Since our daughter's Chinese name will be such an important part of her identity and heritage, we will use it as her middle name. I am not sure what her nickname will be yet, but we can figure that out when we see her.

Although the possibility is remote, I have been toying around with other names in case we get twin girls. I suggested Daisy, as it is my favorite flower, but Corrado vetoed it. Daisy Del Rosso sounded a little too much like a porn star name. Then there was Corradina, which Patty suggested (she also suggested Pasqualina -sorry if I destroyed the spelling) but Corrado vetoed that too. I've decided to keep a list, just in case.....

Also, Jen and Marie - THANK YOU FOR THE COMMENTS, love them!!!!!!

A Little History

2006-08-02T13:23:00.000-04:00

Just a little history on what has happened so far......

Corrado and I began the adoption process back in February of 2005. It all started with a huge amount of paperwork and a whole lot of questions. As a matter of fact, I just checked our documents and we signed our adoption agreement/ application with the adoption agency on March 6, 2005. At that point, we had already begun collecting documents (that we needed to send with the application) and met with the social worker for the homestudy. We really hit the ground running on this one, but you know how I am when I want something.... and we both really wanted this!

So, it took us a total of two weeks to do all of our paperwork. Then, we had to WAIT and WAIT for the state to do their part. This was when I first realized that I would not be controlling this process, and patience is a virtue that I am seriously lacking. We waited for the state to send "official" copies of all sorts of things, and then we had to be fingerprinted....and fingerprinted again.

Our complete application went to China at the end of July. It was officially logged into China (LID) on August 24, 2005. This is a very important date and you will see it mentioned often. China does their adoptions in the order that they receive them, so you can tell where you are in the process by LID.

China finally approved our application only a few months ago. We were not notified that we were approved officially, but the Chinese Center for Adoption Affairs posts where they are in the process for application approvals and matches. We knew by watching this website that they had reviewed all of August applications - and no news was good news.

So here we are, one year after our documents were sent to China anxiously awaiting the new addition to our family. We are beginning to get the nursery and playroom ready. Soon we will be shopping for baby things (OK, I will be shopping for baby things - Corrado will just start seeing the bills come in). We have begun getting all our shots for the trip. And then there is the wonderful paperwork that has to be updated due the length of the wait.... but that is OK, we are learning all about patience.

I look forward to keeping everyone updated. I think that things are going to get interesting really soon!