Our First Full Month With Jessica

When we first returned home, things were a little tough.

Livi got very sick which led to all kinds of test.

Thankfully, everything was fine,

but between the jet lag, a sick girl, and trying to figure out 

what our new little gem needed
(who is teething in a big way and was completely terrified of our dogs),
it was a kinda rough.

We were saved by meals delivered by precious friends!

She doesn't love the car seat, but she is getting used to it.

She hangs on her high chair when she is hungry!

Yes!  We did this!  

Our little Minnies

First park day with our homeschooling group

Fun outside at home

A beautiful Thanksgiving at Auntie Linda and Uncle Tim's house

She had a consult with our plastic surgeon at Children's.  Surgery is scheduled for the end of January.

This was also Paul's last day of leave.  He went back to work after a full month.  

We missed him so much this week.

The girls attack him when he walks through the door at the end of the day, 

they are so happy to have him home.

This is how she helps me get supper ready!  

Bath time has become loads of fun.

Bed time!

The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with JOY!

Psalm 126:3

Home Again, Home Again

We are so incredibly happy to be home!!  I was dreading the trip home, but overall, it went well. 

We rode to Hong Kong in a van with a driver. This made going through customs at the Chinese border SO much easier than being on a bus like last time. We didn't even have to get out of the van!  

The hotel was attached to the airport. So, we checked in, had supper, a little play time at the hotel, and then off to bed. 

Play room at the hotel in Hong Kong. 

We were at the airport a little after 7:00 am to get checked in for the flight to Tokyo. 

Hanging out in Hong Kong!

The Tokyo airport had a sweet little play area right near our gate. 

I don't want to do the long stretch from Tokyo to Los Angeles again any time soon!  Not so fun with a squirmy toddler. 

We have never been so happy to see the smiling faces of Sarah, Shealee, and Auntie Linda waiting for us as we walked away from customs.

The sign says, "little sisters home."

Sarah made sweet decorations to welcome us.  So happy to hug our big kids and grandma, grandpa, and nana.

Even Jessi seemed happy to sleep in her new bed!  

Thanks so much for praying for us along the way. God is so faithful. And we are filled with joy!  Tired -- but very joyful!

Our Last Night In Guangzhou

Today was our last full day in Guangzhou. This morning we went to the U.S. Consulate to finish the paperwork for Jessica's visa. Security was much stricter than last time we were there. We couldn't bring cell phones, cameras, umbrellas, or even musical baby toys!  Thankfully our guide was on hand to hold onto everything for us. The oath ceremony was even done with the official behind glass. 

The girls in their usa apparel. 

We had time for more outside playtime this afternoon. 

And then the traditional photo on the hotel staircase. 

All six families that we have been traveling with. Such a wonderful bunch of people. 

Tomorrow afternoon we drive to Hong Kong. We spend one night right next to the airport and then fly home. 

Wish we could just click our heels and be done. Praying we have an uneventful travel day!  Can't wait to be back in Thousand Oaks, California. 

Up and down the ramp after supper. 

Before bedtime antics. 

Safari Park

Three of the six families that we are traveling with decided to travel about an hour away from Guanzhou to an amazing safari park. 

We were up close and personal with so many amazing animals. Part of the way we were on a tram (mimicking a train) and then there was a ton to see walking around. 

On the tram. 

There was a walk thru Jurassic area with life size robotic dinosaurs. 

Scary!!

This guy was hanging out where we are lunch!  

The Big Sisters. 

Quiet time after a long day. 

Nite nite!!

Shopping, Shopping, And A Little More Shopping

After breakfast this morning, we went to a beautiful embroidery shop. 

Then we stopped at a few places in this six story wholesale market. 

After that we went to Shamein Island for some more shopping and lunch. The island used to be a hub for adoptive families. The famous White Swan Hotel has been closed for remodeling the last three years and many of the shops have closed. 

The island was colonized by the British. So, the architecture reflects that. 

And, of course, it's always nice to see that little green sign when you're far from home. 

Playing on the sculptures!

We finished the day with a little play time at the hotel. 

The girls are doing great together. It's so nice to have a little time to run and play at the end of the afternoon. Then, it's supper, bath, and bedtime for us all!!

Sightseeing And Playing In Guangzhou

Sugar cane juiced right in the spot. 

Entering the Folk Art Museum. 

Beautiful carved doors. 

Listening to the "story teller."

We got lunch to take back to the hotel from the little neighborhood noodle shop. They were the best noodles we have ever had!  

Looking down the street. 

Love the mix of old and new. 

Playing peekaboo back at the hotel. 

Such a sweet little pair.