Words cannot describe the range of emotions we have felt over the past hours.
We flew to Urumqi on Thursday April 31st and arrived around 2:00 pm. Our guide Jenny met us at the airport and told us we would meet our daughter at 3:00! Wow, that is fast, we were emotionally prepared to meet her on Friday. We didn't feel ready.
It never works out exactly as you picture it in your mind. We had a lot of time to imagine what this day would be like. We imagined a quiet, private, serene setting--appropriate for such an important event.
Well, it was a bit different than that. We met her in a photo studio. Yes, that is right, a photo studio. It isn't how we imagined it, but oh well. For our guide it was practical. We needed a family picture for the government paperwork, and she was anxious to get it done, so meeting at the studio saved time!
It all worked out fine. There was a small upper room that we met in for a few minutes and got acquainted. Then they had us take a family photo before we went to the government office to be interviewed and fill out paperwork. After that we went to the notary office to have all the paperwork officially notarized. It took a long time.
Liddia is very outgoing, not shy at all. It is really early to tell, but she has taken to Rachelle very well. Hopefully a secure bond has started, I think so.
Liddia is a talker! Sure wish we knew what she was saying! She seems very happy and content. Not scared and timid like I thought she would be at first. The orphanage director came to the office while we were there. She said Liddia is very well liked by the other kids and has a lot of friends. She has quite a sweet personality.
We have to do more government visits and paperwork, so off we go. It is now Friday morning. 
We are so thrilled for you!!!!! Just seeing you together brought tears to my eyes. You are meant to be together! We love you very much & thank you for the updates.
ReplyDeleteLove the loganbrowns
I checked your blog right before we did our family scripture study and was overcome with pure joy for all of you! I sat and stared at your family picture for several minutes, thinking of the love and miracles that have taken place, and feeling such a sense of gratitude at being able to witness such miracles. I found a scripture in 2 Nephi 26:13 "And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles, signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith." As I read that, I thought of the countless people who have been blessed to witness so many miracles; to see the wonder and power of our Heavenly Father as He has carried you across land and sea to find this precious daughter, and give her the miracle of an eternal family. I thought of the faith that each of you posess, and how your faith has strengthened my own. My heart is so full of gratitude and excitement for your entire family. Thank you for letting me be a part of this amazing journey!
ReplyDeleteAll my love,
Katrina :)
Oh wow!! What a gorgeous little princess! And the two of you couldn't look happier. I'm so glad, happy and filled with excitement to see her in your arms!! We can't wait to meet her! She sounds like such a fun little girl! Give her a squeeze from us and lots of kisses too! We LoVe you guys!!!
ReplyDeleteShe is so beautiful, Rachelle and Brendon, and I'm so happy for you! What a long wait. And you're finally together!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! All of us here at work are soooo excited for you!
ReplyDeleteThis is so, so wonderful! Lucky, lucky Mom and Dad! Lucky, lucky Liddia! Loves and wishes for a safe, happy journey! Aundrea
ReplyDeleteCongrats, Rachelle and Brendon! She is beautiful! We are so happy for you all. We can't wait to meet her! Hurry up to Guangzhou! We are axiously waiting for you all!
ReplyDeleteKevin, Michelle, Lillian, and now Rose Mei Sisler
PS.... our blog is ellarosemeisavannahdawn.blogspot.com
She is so cute!!! Yeah!!
ReplyDelete