Transitions

Finally, an update. I've been to Taiwan and back. I wish I would have had a laptop along to blog while I was there because it was too hard to have a 2 year old in the hotel lobby on a computer. We have Ruby at home now and we are all adjusting...slowly...to our new family. The trip had its ups and downs. I am glad to be home. Ila and Ruby are having fun and playing and laughing with an occasional fight over a toy. But for the most part there isn't anything out of the ordinary happening. Ruby is a sweet, smart little girl -- that gets a little wild in public sometimes. We just plan to hang low for awhile and continue to transition into our family of four.

Here's a few pictures from the day we spent with the foster family at St. Lucy's and the first few days together. The first day we got there, we went straight to St. Lucy's to pick her up. It was really hard on everyone, especially the foster family and of course, Ruby. She had a lot of people that loved her for so long and it was hard to say goodbye. The first night was the toughest but each day has been getting better. I know we have alot of people praying for our family and it helps tremendously and is greatly appreciated...thank you to everyone who is so kind and supportive...you know who you are!

Peace, Lani

Final Countdown!

Here's a clip from our visit in March. It was taken within the first hour of us meeting Ruby. She is holding onto some candy and her foster mom is asking her to give it to me: "Mommy"...and she does!

I have less than a week to get everything ready. I think that I have things under control...I hope! Scott is working out-of-town and can't go to Taiwan this time. It's such a great blessing that we went already and he got to meet her because it is required that happen if only one parent goes to pick up your child. God works in mysterious ways! So my Dad is going along this time to help out. It should be fun! I am hoping we have time to go the the zoo in Taipei and do some other sightseeing. We will be in Tainan for two days and Taipei for three days.

Here at home, Ruby's room is officially complete! I have a double stroller. I have two car seats. I have two of every dress Ila owns. Now I just have to start packing and let the countdown begin!

Daddy's Little Girl

Ruby's Closet

Before...

...and After!

Dinner with the Goslings

We finalized all our travel plans today. We leave in two weeks! Booking flights and hotels is about my least favorite experience ever. Especially since we are traveling in "high season" and its draining the bank account! The remainder of the day I spent frozen in fear that I have too much to do yet and I feel what I have learned so far, I have forgotten. Tomorrow will be a better day!

Here's a video clip from our trip to Indiana. We went to dinner one night and sat on the patio overlooking the lake and its inhabitants. Needless to say, Ila was in heaven!

Like Mother, Like Daughter

One thing I remember very well from my childhood is this blue and white checkered dress that I seemed to wear on many occasions. When we visited my mom recently, she brought out this dress and Ila couldn't wait to put it on. I was just over three in this picture about the same as Ila is now. It fits her perfectly! It's so hard to believe that's me twenty five years ago...isn't it?! Anyway, I hope that I have learned to have more fun at parties...

Lani

Happy Birthday Ruby!

Ruby is two years old today. Although we are not with her I know she is in good care and we will all be together in a few short weeks. I received update pictures yesterday of her opening the presents we sent...she is even wearing one of the outfits I bought her. I sent along some Minnesota Twins t-shirts and hats for the foster family too. I am just counting down the days to be with her again. Ila is so excited and her face just lights up when we talk about her little sister coming home. We are making cupcakes today to celebrate. Happy birthday to my little girl!

Lani