About ten years ago we bought a new dining room table - a nice table, but so big even without the leaves that I was sad how empty it felt when just our family of 5 was dining! In fact, we couldn't even close the circle holding hands for grace before our meals as the two kids at the end could not reach across. I have complained periodically that our family was incomplete and so loved it when cousins and grandparents joined us so our table was full! Well, Saturday morning finally fulfilled this silly desire of mine to fill our table and close the circle of hands as we pray together!! After 22 hours of flight and layovers, and only 3 hours of sleep in some 30+ hours, Amy joined our family of now 6 Everetts and enjoyed pancakes and sausages with chopsticks!
It was a delightful first day home and Amy is a bundle of curiosity and awe and smiles! Lucy (jhe jhe), Matthew (gu gu) and Jack (dei dei) have shown a capacity for giving love that I wouldn't have guessed kids were capable of and we are all enjoying this adventue tremendously. She loves our dogs, especially Maggie, which she calls "Maunkey" - this cracks us all up and I'm sure will do the same for those of you who know our Maggie.
Amy is selectively enjoying American cuisine, and has slowed down her eating to 1/4 of what she consumed in China -she especially likes KFC.
We spent Mark's bday at Camp Spalding today and Amy loved the water, trampoline, water slide
(if we caught her at the bottom) and wanted to try the blob! (We did not let her - thank goodness it was against Camp rules).
She has now decided her new siblings are far more interesting than either of her parents but she has warmed up to me some especially from 12:00am - to 4:00am each morning for storytime!!! Yes, we are all quite jet lagged and Dr. Suess in the wee hours will hopefully switch to a reasonable hour!
Thank you again for all of your comments, prayers, encouragements and interest! We are so blessed to call you our friends! (and family).
Sadly, although we wil try to combat the cultural norm, the pace of life has already changed and the luxury of time that we had in China to linger and reflect on our time with Amy and then blog about it has become scarce. However, for any of you that did request and are interested, we will try to post blogs periodically on Amy's transition to America, and life with the Everett family.
With much love and gratitude for you and God's faithfulness,
teri
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Great Day Yesterday
We had a great day yesterday starting out at the pool at 7 AM. I went to the gym at 6:15 and came back around 7 so Teri could go swim laps. Amy was awake and knew it was pool time. We haven't figured out how to say "Sorry Amy, this is not your swim time but mommy's exercise time. We will all go to the pool in the afternoon" in Chinese. So Amy and Teri went to the pool at 7 AM it was already 80 degrees so it felt like a good time to jump in.
Teri and Amy had two good pool/fun/bonding times together yesterday and we had no other issues. I have decided that pool time is one of the best places to bond. It is fun, but there is the aspect of their need for you to support and protect as without you they would sink or fall through the inner tube. As trust is gained they start jumping to you etc.
Daddy continues to be the pack mule in Amy's eyes. She now says "up please" as the signal. I do love carrying her. The Chinese don't like it though as a 6 yr old should be walking on their own.
We saw our Maryland friends for the last time last night. We got some pictures with the girls in some traditional style garb - much to Amy's shagrin. She looks darn cute in it but we may never get it back on her. (End of Mark's entry)
(Teri writing now)
Had great conversations with our kids today - and told them that would be our last until we get HOME! - We leave tomorrow at 5:00 am and we would covet your prayers for that journey! Remember she hates the seat belt. We don't have seats together on our first leg and since she likes Mark so much I think its only right that he should sit with her and wrestle with the seat belt since she'll feel much happier with him - don't you think so? tee hee - just kidding - we will try to switch wth someone.
For our last day, we went to the zoo, finished buying souvenirs and then a suitcase to bring them all home in! AND our last official hoop - the swearing in at the US Consulate along with 42 other families - and it is official, the minute she walks on US soil, she is an American citizen! Amy Qi Everett. She calls herself Amy consistently now - but here's a warning: if yu ask her what is your name she'll reply, "what is your name?" We haven't figured out how to have her NOT repeat our questions.
Another interesting battle at the zoo. Our guide said, "Let me handle this." I was a little nervous, he kept saying, "Trust me." I was shocked when he said just walk away from her, and wanted all of us to continue doing so past my comfort zone - he said don;t worry - and sure enough she finally came to her senses. Thank goodness for David - he never knew his child psychology class would come in so handy as a tour guide!
Anyhoo - see many of you back in the US of A - home sweet home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks SOO much for all your thoughtful comments - we have the best family and friends I'm sure!
Teri and Amy had two good pool/fun/bonding times together yesterday and we had no other issues. I have decided that pool time is one of the best places to bond. It is fun, but there is the aspect of their need for you to support and protect as without you they would sink or fall through the inner tube. As trust is gained they start jumping to you etc.
Daddy continues to be the pack mule in Amy's eyes. She now says "up please" as the signal. I do love carrying her. The Chinese don't like it though as a 6 yr old should be walking on their own.
We saw our Maryland friends for the last time last night. We got some pictures with the girls in some traditional style garb - much to Amy's shagrin. She looks darn cute in it but we may never get it back on her. (End of Mark's entry)
(Teri writing now)
Had great conversations with our kids today - and told them that would be our last until we get HOME! - We leave tomorrow at 5:00 am and we would covet your prayers for that journey! Remember she hates the seat belt. We don't have seats together on our first leg and since she likes Mark so much I think its only right that he should sit with her and wrestle with the seat belt since she'll feel much happier with him - don't you think so? tee hee - just kidding - we will try to switch wth someone.
For our last day, we went to the zoo, finished buying souvenirs and then a suitcase to bring them all home in! AND our last official hoop - the swearing in at the US Consulate along with 42 other families - and it is official, the minute she walks on US soil, she is an American citizen! Amy Qi Everett. She calls herself Amy consistently now - but here's a warning: if yu ask her what is your name she'll reply, "what is your name?" We haven't figured out how to have her NOT repeat our questions.
Another interesting battle at the zoo. Our guide said, "Let me handle this." I was a little nervous, he kept saying, "Trust me." I was shocked when he said just walk away from her, and wanted all of us to continue doing so past my comfort zone - he said don;t worry - and sure enough she finally came to her senses. Thank goodness for David - he never knew his child psychology class would come in so handy as a tour guide!
Anyhoo - see many of you back in the US of A - home sweet home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks SOO much for all your thoughtful comments - we have the best family and friends I'm sure!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Typical 6 and Miscellaneous
Mark Writing, Tuesday Noon, Monday evening Spokane:
Amy is becoming more comfortable with us which means a greater ability to express affection, pleasure and displeasure. This was the case yesterday when the time came for either her to win or me to win. It was a "yes I love you, and no you can't have your own way" moment or should I say hour and a half!. She knew what she had to do and did not want to do it. Both of us expressed our will and daddy won. When it was all over, it was over and today is a new day and things are fine. I do think it was an important event. I am glad it happened here without the distraction of home and other kids. For me it was an expected and important event. I do feel that Amy was the princess of the orphanage from what we saw and heard at the orphanage.
We've had some interesting times with our wonderful and wise guide David. Discussions have included the cultural revolution in China, the great famines during the Mao era, minimum wage, health care, Mao's wife who was a real tyrant and lots of other stuff. We have been the only group here and we have had him all to ourselves.
Teri writing now - Mark is tired
Amy is enjoying the pool, a puzzle of China, bacon, french toast, orange juice and has a Matthew like aversion to most things fruit-like. Except for the Litche fruit which apparent is slightly toxic. She loves her "adoption "Barbie doll which is gift to all adoptive families from the White Swan Hotel- a very classic blonde Barbie with a Chinese baby in her arms - Mark says I am not quite living up to the standard. She will fit in with those of you who like to window shop and has a broad appetite for most any goods. Mark's favorite clothing store is the "Mexican" shop. It sells casual sportswear typical of polo or the like. The names for stores are to funny to the westerner.
We went on a dinner cruise on the Pearl river and sat in the VIP Dining Room. we were entertained by a tenor sax and violin player. The Pearl is beautiful at night with the shore line and trees a lit up with colorful lights and there is a light show with music accompaniment. We had a bottle of wine and it was a great end to a very hard day, frankly. Amy had three tough temper tantrums and decided yesterday morning, after her first one that was precipitated by a language breakdown with me, that Mark is her favorite. Our guide even tried to intervene and help understand what she wanted but at that point she was beyond rationalizing with or even consoling - Our guide said she just was mad. Fortunately, Mark handled the long second one to try and let her know I wasn't the bad guy - I was grateful - but it didn't change much. She is fine with me know but has pegged me as the caretaker, teacher, reader and dad is the fun playmate and "carry me whenever I want" guy. (Not too different from the perception of young biological children - yes?) Its and injustice I tell you, but I am sure when we get home things will settle in just fine. Anyway - While we still miss our kids terribly, it is definitely good for us to be able to work through some of this with her on our own .
Today we walked to the local open market - whewy - that was an experience!!!!! The pictures will tell all.
we miss you all
Teri
Amy is becoming more comfortable with us which means a greater ability to express affection, pleasure and displeasure. This was the case yesterday when the time came for either her to win or me to win. It was a "yes I love you, and no you can't have your own way" moment or should I say hour and a half!. She knew what she had to do and did not want to do it. Both of us expressed our will and daddy won. When it was all over, it was over and today is a new day and things are fine. I do think it was an important event. I am glad it happened here without the distraction of home and other kids. For me it was an expected and important event. I do feel that Amy was the princess of the orphanage from what we saw and heard at the orphanage.
We've had some interesting times with our wonderful and wise guide David. Discussions have included the cultural revolution in China, the great famines during the Mao era, minimum wage, health care, Mao's wife who was a real tyrant and lots of other stuff. We have been the only group here and we have had him all to ourselves.
Teri writing now - Mark is tired
Amy is enjoying the pool, a puzzle of China, bacon, french toast, orange juice and has a Matthew like aversion to most things fruit-like. Except for the Litche fruit which apparent is slightly toxic. She loves her "adoption "Barbie doll which is gift to all adoptive families from the White Swan Hotel- a very classic blonde Barbie with a Chinese baby in her arms - Mark says I am not quite living up to the standard. She will fit in with those of you who like to window shop and has a broad appetite for most any goods. Mark's favorite clothing store is the "Mexican" shop. It sells casual sportswear typical of polo or the like. The names for stores are to funny to the westerner.
We went on a dinner cruise on the Pearl river and sat in the VIP Dining Room. we were entertained by a tenor sax and violin player. The Pearl is beautiful at night with the shore line and trees a lit up with colorful lights and there is a light show with music accompaniment. We had a bottle of wine and it was a great end to a very hard day, frankly. Amy had three tough temper tantrums and decided yesterday morning, after her first one that was precipitated by a language breakdown with me, that Mark is her favorite. Our guide even tried to intervene and help understand what she wanted but at that point she was beyond rationalizing with or even consoling - Our guide said she just was mad. Fortunately, Mark handled the long second one to try and let her know I wasn't the bad guy - I was grateful - but it didn't change much. She is fine with me know but has pegged me as the caretaker, teacher, reader and dad is the fun playmate and "carry me whenever I want" guy. (Not too different from the perception of young biological children - yes?) Its and injustice I tell you, but I am sure when we get home things will settle in just fine. Anyway - While we still miss our kids terribly, it is definitely good for us to be able to work through some of this with her on our own .
Today we walked to the local open market - whewy - that was an experience!!!!! The pictures will tell all.
we miss you all
Teri
Saturday, July 19, 2008
We'll go the 11:00 service...
Well it's 12:50 pm on Sunday here and we just returned from church - yes, in China - a government sanctioned Protestant church called Christ church! The service started at 11:00 - we were told to get there at least at 10:45 so we could get a seat inside! This was the third service today and sure enough it was packed and they broadcasted the service outside for those who could not fit. We prayed, read scripture, (John 4:23) and the sang 4 songs - 2 in Chinese and 2 in English - How Beautiful, and I Will Give Thanks To Thee. It was very moving and everyone sang so loud the piano could not be heard at all. Then the sermon was preached in Chinese and translated after every sentence by a woman standing right next to the pastor. The theme of the sermon was: We go to church to worship and for no other reason - not for the music, the atmosphere, the fellowship, the people - and we do not select a service based on style of worship! Wow - that could have been something right from an American Christian pulpit - no?
Then a testimony - that was incredible but we finally had to leave after 1 and 1/2 hours even though it was still going on. My friend Julie and I were both moved to tears by the whole body of Christ and how amazing it was to be worshipping with believers across the world!
After church - we went to 7-11 to get a snack for our little ones and Amy debated between spicy cuttlefish and tomato flavored seaweed! Meanwhile I bought a bag of Lays potato chips - typical American. Although - they may be a thing of the past when we return as I am reading Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver - excellent book - Thanks Dani - although I am not sure my kids will receive it quite as well as I! Tee Hee
Okay last comment - where the heck are all of you!!!!!! We got no comments on our last blog - I know its the weekend and all - and some of you are camping, or pony showing - but did everyone drop off the face of the Earth? Mark did the last blog and is having a bit of a complex - anyway - love to all - 4 more days!
Teri
Then a testimony - that was incredible but we finally had to leave after 1 and 1/2 hours even though it was still going on. My friend Julie and I were both moved to tears by the whole body of Christ and how amazing it was to be worshipping with believers across the world!
After church - we went to 7-11 to get a snack for our little ones and Amy debated between spicy cuttlefish and tomato flavored seaweed! Meanwhile I bought a bag of Lays potato chips - typical American. Although - they may be a thing of the past when we return as I am reading Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver - excellent book - Thanks Dani - although I am not sure my kids will receive it quite as well as I! Tee Hee
Okay last comment - where the heck are all of you!!!!!! We got no comments on our last blog - I know its the weekend and all - and some of you are camping, or pony showing - but did everyone drop off the face of the Earth? Mark did the last blog and is having a bit of a complex - anyway - love to all - 4 more days!
Teri
The Rest of The Story and The Five Star Filly
Mark Writing:
I miss my Kids !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and here's the rest of the update for today.
You have all heard of Amy's wonderful transition into our family thus far but our story is not typical. Amy was not in foster care and was programmed by the orphanage over the years, I think literally, that a mama and babba were coming for her. At six we really feel she knew we were coming and was waiting for us, wondering when we would arrive. For younger children in foster care, it seems to be much harder. We met one family in the airport yesterday with a toddler who cried for 5 days straight while awake. The parents only relief was that the child would sleep through the night. Anyone in that situation would have reason to be an emotional wreck. They were and the baby as well. It was getting better yesterday but my heart just ached for them. Pray that all the kids and parents of these adopted ones that these difficult transitions will pass quickly. No doubt all these kids will be better off in the US. Pray also for the foster families who have cared for these kids as their hearts ache as well.
Amy (chi chia) as she was called, continues to do well. I am trying to get her to teach me Chinese. I so wish I could understand what she says. She continues to speak to us in Chinese and regardless of how clueless we are, amazingly it doesn't lead to tantrums etc. We have been learning words from our guides and even Amy has helped with pronunciation. Often we will try to communicate and she doesn't get it and literally tilts her head and does the hand motions for "I don't know" . I am convinced that after these episodes of communication breakdown she says "you big funny white Guy" in Chinese.
She really does loves to color and is also using water color paints that Teri threw in her suitcase at the last minute. Teri must have been divinely inspired in the way of packing activites for Amy. I am sure that all 64 of the 64 pack of colored pencils from Jack's desk has been used repeatedly.
I am beginning to worry that our Five Star Filly, ie. Amy, staying at 5 star hotels, will have issues once back in Spokane. I haven't laid an eyes on a cow, chicken (except for their feet in the buffet line that our dear daughter can't pass up), dog or cat and not seen a single bale to buck. The breakfast buffets are huge in size and selection unlike the choice between oatmeal or grapenuts that she'll find at Highline Ranch. Of course, she might get lucky and get to have huckleberry pancakes at the Zieglers or crepes at Aunt Krisi's.
Thank goodness for five star western toilets. This kid has more leaks than all of my farm hoses combined. We think she either has prostate issues or diabetes. We feel better now that we have talked to another family here (the Sharun's - a family that we knew from our church in Baltimore, MD and haven't seen for 15 years) that found us at breakfast and told us their 5 year old girl has prostate issues or diabetes as well! Tee Hee. Anyway - back to that little aside - yes, we totally unexpectedly ran into friends of ours from 15 years ago and they homeschool 13 and an 8 year old boys in MD and have just adopted this 5 year old girl! That was amazing - we will be attending church with them tomorrow morning (yes, a Christian church - here) and had fun catching up with them at the pool today.
What's a guy need to do to get a pot of tea in China?? I don't know but we sure have tried. We've decided you only get one with a guide. Having had our fill of fried leek cakes, fried yuba, dim son, fried rice, fried noodles, fried pumpkin, fried eggs, fried bok choy, deep fried gluten balls, fried chicken feet, steamed buns, beef balls and somehow - fried soup, we are going to find some western food tonight.
Over and Out,
Mark
P.S. as I write - Teri is giddy as she watches Amy fold every piece of her clothing and organizes her dresser drawer. Watch out Lucy! or better yet - lucky you - she'll be cleaning your room for you!
I miss my Kids !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and here's the rest of the update for today.
You have all heard of Amy's wonderful transition into our family thus far but our story is not typical. Amy was not in foster care and was programmed by the orphanage over the years, I think literally, that a mama and babba were coming for her. At six we really feel she knew we were coming and was waiting for us, wondering when we would arrive. For younger children in foster care, it seems to be much harder. We met one family in the airport yesterday with a toddler who cried for 5 days straight while awake. The parents only relief was that the child would sleep through the night. Anyone in that situation would have reason to be an emotional wreck. They were and the baby as well. It was getting better yesterday but my heart just ached for them. Pray that all the kids and parents of these adopted ones that these difficult transitions will pass quickly. No doubt all these kids will be better off in the US. Pray also for the foster families who have cared for these kids as their hearts ache as well.
Amy (chi chia) as she was called, continues to do well. I am trying to get her to teach me Chinese. I so wish I could understand what she says. She continues to speak to us in Chinese and regardless of how clueless we are, amazingly it doesn't lead to tantrums etc. We have been learning words from our guides and even Amy has helped with pronunciation. Often we will try to communicate and she doesn't get it and literally tilts her head and does the hand motions for "I don't know" . I am convinced that after these episodes of communication breakdown she says "you big funny white Guy" in Chinese.
She really does loves to color and is also using water color paints that Teri threw in her suitcase at the last minute. Teri must have been divinely inspired in the way of packing activites for Amy. I am sure that all 64 of the 64 pack of colored pencils from Jack's desk has been used repeatedly.
I am beginning to worry that our Five Star Filly, ie. Amy, staying at 5 star hotels, will have issues once back in Spokane. I haven't laid an eyes on a cow, chicken (except for their feet in the buffet line that our dear daughter can't pass up), dog or cat and not seen a single bale to buck. The breakfast buffets are huge in size and selection unlike the choice between oatmeal or grapenuts that she'll find at Highline Ranch. Of course, she might get lucky and get to have huckleberry pancakes at the Zieglers or crepes at Aunt Krisi's.
Thank goodness for five star western toilets. This kid has more leaks than all of my farm hoses combined. We think she either has prostate issues or diabetes. We feel better now that we have talked to another family here (the Sharun's - a family that we knew from our church in Baltimore, MD and haven't seen for 15 years) that found us at breakfast and told us their 5 year old girl has prostate issues or diabetes as well! Tee Hee. Anyway - back to that little aside - yes, we totally unexpectedly ran into friends of ours from 15 years ago and they homeschool 13 and an 8 year old boys in MD and have just adopted this 5 year old girl! That was amazing - we will be attending church with them tomorrow morning (yes, a Christian church - here) and had fun catching up with them at the pool today.
What's a guy need to do to get a pot of tea in China?? I don't know but we sure have tried. We've decided you only get one with a guide. Having had our fill of fried leek cakes, fried yuba, dim son, fried rice, fried noodles, fried pumpkin, fried eggs, fried bok choy, deep fried gluten balls, fried chicken feet, steamed buns, beef balls and somehow - fried soup, we are going to find some western food tonight.
Over and Out,
Mark
P.S. as I write - Teri is giddy as she watches Amy fold every piece of her clothing and organizes her dresser drawer. Watch out Lucy! or better yet - lucky you - she'll be cleaning your room for you!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
things I'm pondering
Friday am - last day in Wuhan: With the exception of missing my kids, extended family and great friends, many aspects of this trip are growing on me. I have moved from, "get me home ASAP" to "hmm, there is a lot to learn here from these people, this type of a "vacation" and Amy herself, of course. I haven't had this much space in my brain, or time to think in maybe 20 years? Don't worry, there's still no place like home, but maybe a perspective check will improve home!
Sat. am first day in Guangzhou - Okay - I can't explain all that I was pondering now - our pace has changed dramatically and everything is different here! Wow - back to an American way it seems - for better or for worse. At lest a hundred Western families at breakfast in the hotel and much hustle and bustle even for the locals here. THis hotel is a 5 star on steriods!! I will tell all about it later - we have to get some laundry done -
Pictures coming later today. Medical exam for Amy and paperwrk to do now.
I saw the place Amy was left yesterday - I still am fighting back tears thinking about it and seeing the place only intensified my sadness - I cannot imagine. It was not a bus station but a bus stop - in a very poor area - I hurt for her and my love continues to grow simutaneously.
Okay - I really have to go!! Ugh
TEri
Sat. am first day in Guangzhou - Okay - I can't explain all that I was pondering now - our pace has changed dramatically and everything is different here! Wow - back to an American way it seems - for better or for worse. At lest a hundred Western families at breakfast in the hotel and much hustle and bustle even for the locals here. THis hotel is a 5 star on steriods!! I will tell all about it later - we have to get some laundry done -
Pictures coming later today. Medical exam for Amy and paperwrk to do now.
I saw the place Amy was left yesterday - I still am fighting back tears thinking about it and seeing the place only intensified my sadness - I cannot imagine. It was not a bus station but a bus stop - in a very poor area - I hurt for her and my love continues to grow simutaneously.
Okay - I really have to go!! Ugh
TEri
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
bubble baths and buried bells
Last night we found bubble bath and Amy spent 45 minutes playing in the bath tub amusing herself as she decorated her body and hair with tons of bubbles and the giggled in the mirror - she is becoming more and more animated, talkative and opinionated everyday! Of course she will have nothing to do with the outfit I find the cutest ! A good sign, I know. She is mimicking everything we say - Including, calling Mark "big funny white guy!" That was said right after Mark wondered out loud what she might be thinking of him. She is beyond fun and cute and eats all kinds of things - except fruit - hmm, a little Matthew and Alyssa in her...
This morning we went to the Hubei Provincial Museum which has an amazing exhibit of the tomb of a Marquis from 430 B.C. that was discovered by accident and incredibly preserved -there were four chambers filled with ancient bells, of which we watched a performance where replicas of them were played - very beautiful. Intricately carved jade, gold, weaponry and huge bronze wine containers, food containers and the world's first BBQ I'm sure! The advanced skill used in 5th century B.C. was quite impressive. I felt like we were looking at archaeological finds akin to King Tut's tomb.
She spends hours each day coloring and drawing - and told our guide she does not like music - that will be interesting in our home. My guess is she will like her sibling's beautiful music and she is quick as a whip - she has her body parts almost down already and numbers too!
Culturally, Buddhism is definitely the most common religion we have encountered and the people are proud of their faith and of Mao Tse Tung. Some differences we have noticed:
-most women wear very high heels - everywhere - not just for dressy affairs
-people are masters of making do - a delivery man today riding a bike with four, larger than BBQ size, propane tanks - and another riding with a 25 foot ladder attached to his bike!
-Umbrellas everywhere to provide shade from blistering sun - although we haven't seen the sun yet through the haze or smog - not sure which.
-No difference between breakfast lunch and dinner foods.
- services and food is cheap, Western products eg. name brands we would recognize are very expensive.
like the pirate's code... traffic rules are more like guidelines - it's a total free for all on the street!
the food is not sweet - even their sweet things aren't very sweet
We are really enjoying our lazy days of hanging out and getting to know each other. Its pretty simple, eat, paperwork, sight see, eat, nap, eat, walk, bed! Not a bad life - but boy do I miss home.
Teri
This morning we went to the Hubei Provincial Museum which has an amazing exhibit of the tomb of a Marquis from 430 B.C. that was discovered by accident and incredibly preserved -there were four chambers filled with ancient bells, of which we watched a performance where replicas of them were played - very beautiful. Intricately carved jade, gold, weaponry and huge bronze wine containers, food containers and the world's first BBQ I'm sure! The advanced skill used in 5th century B.C. was quite impressive. I felt like we were looking at archaeological finds akin to King Tut's tomb.
She spends hours each day coloring and drawing - and told our guide she does not like music - that will be interesting in our home. My guess is she will like her sibling's beautiful music and she is quick as a whip - she has her body parts almost down already and numbers too!
Culturally, Buddhism is definitely the most common religion we have encountered and the people are proud of their faith and of Mao Tse Tung. Some differences we have noticed:
-most women wear very high heels - everywhere - not just for dressy affairs
-people are masters of making do - a delivery man today riding a bike with four, larger than BBQ size, propane tanks - and another riding with a 25 foot ladder attached to his bike!
-Umbrellas everywhere to provide shade from blistering sun - although we haven't seen the sun yet through the haze or smog - not sure which.
-No difference between breakfast lunch and dinner foods.
- services and food is cheap, Western products eg. name brands we would recognize are very expensive.
like the pirate's code... traffic rules are more like guidelines - it's a total free for all on the street!
the food is not sweet - even their sweet things aren't very sweet
We are really enjoying our lazy days of hanging out and getting to know each other. Its pretty simple, eat, paperwork, sight see, eat, nap, eat, walk, bed! Not a bad life - but boy do I miss home.
Teri
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Orphanage Day and Sight Seeing in Wuhan
At 8:40 this morning we drove off from the hotel to visit the Wuhan Orphanage for the first time and Amy was not interested in returning there at all. We were surprised. She told Zoey, our guide, I want to stay with mama and baba. We drove (again risking life and limb of ourselves and others) 30 minutes to this ChildWelfare House - housing 500 primarily special needs children. It was a very large compound and gated and clean but not - I don't know how to explain that - but it was just a mix of clean and not. What was very impressive was the size, the kindness of all the caregivers, who clearly love children, and the resources available to care for the kids - many of which were donated by Westerners in particular. We were able to witness the incredible benefit of the Half the Sky Foundation in the infant room where the foundation funding one caregiver per baby so as to "educate the baby on what a mother is like." It was clear that the directors, caregivers and teachers loved Amy AND it was clear she was ready to leave - she did not want to go into the class to say good bye to her classmates until I went in and sat down. The other children were so happy to see her and yelled out her name as soon as they could see her. One little girl in the class motioned for me to pick her up and gave me a big hug and wanted to give Zoey a hug too. She said in Chinese "I want a mom too" - okay if that doesn't shatter a heart, what will? We asked what the orphanage needed currently and Dr. Chen said a camera so we agreed to help with that - they were so kind, thankful, and sad to see Amy go.
Then on our way out... we met Jenna - a 16 year old girl from Boston who was adopted from this orphanage when she was 4 months. She saved her own money from babysitting to come volunteer for two weeks at this orphanage! She has been helping in Amy's class and said that Amy loves to draw - when Jenna read stories to the children - Amy would go to the table and draw through the whole story.
WOW - what an experience.
After that we went to a rock/stone/gem museum and a Buddhist Temple - both very interesting but Amy was beat so they were short visits and now she is going through all her books and little flash cards on her bed - "nap time" she is a sponge and can't get enough!
Teri
P.S. Spencer is in foster care so no pictures could be taken but they gave us four pictures of him which we will send to you. He DID get the care package that the Frasers brought. And Joan, we told him your son was doing great and he was thrilled.
Then on our way out... we met Jenna - a 16 year old girl from Boston who was adopted from this orphanage when she was 4 months. She saved her own money from babysitting to come volunteer for two weeks at this orphanage! She has been helping in Amy's class and said that Amy loves to draw - when Jenna read stories to the children - Amy would go to the table and draw through the whole story.
WOW - what an experience.
After that we went to a rock/stone/gem museum and a Buddhist Temple - both very interesting but Amy was beat so they were short visits and now she is going through all her books and little flash cards on her bed - "nap time" she is a sponge and can't get enough!
Teri
P.S. Spencer is in foster care so no pictures could be taken but they gave us four pictures of him which we will send to you. He DID get the care package that the Frasers brought. And Joan, we told him your son was doing great and he was thrilled.
Amazing 24 hours
When last we wrote we had just gotten back from the Provincial office. Our interpreter tried to tell Amy that she would be leaving wuhan and orphange and that seemed to make her sad and she suddenly didn't want much to do with me. Once home Amy and I colored for about an hour together and had great bonding time. Then we got absolutely silly and I put on the plastic face. We heard her laugh for the first time and she really started coming out of her shell. Since then it has been a mama, baba, Amy love fest. We managed to wiggle our way into a new exclusive pool and health club last night for swimming and dinner. It is open to the public a few weeks to generate interest. It reminded me of the Roman pools and sauna with marble columns, huge hot tub, spa facilities and a beautiful dining room in separate area. Amy was in the pool for the first time and loved it. Once she found the mirrors on the ceiling she even wanted to float on her back. We played ping pong and and played with beach ball to end the evening. I was making funny faces as I served the ball and when Amy and I played she was trying to copy my faces. Too funny - she is a complete delight!!
Today we went to the orphanage and it was very emotional for us - and very interesting to see Amy's response - we have lots to tell- but we gotta go now - will write about it after we return.
love to all of you - especially Lu, Matt and Jack!
Today we went to the orphanage and it was very emotional for us - and very interesting to see Amy's response - we have lots to tell- but we gotta go now - will write about it after we return.
love to all of you - especially Lu, Matt and Jack!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Official!
This morning started early for the erratic sleeping Everetts. I (Teri) woke up at 2:47 am and had all sorts of questions I wanted to talk with Mark about. He, being the loving husband that he is, kindly lent an ear and even had his eyes open! I am nervous, lonely for my family, homesick for food that I like and am not worried about getting sick over! The language barrier is definitely there - but we have figured out toilet, hungry, yes, no, wait and I love you. Facial expressions and body language is actually quite effective. Her back is very misshaped, but we will trust that God will provide. We talked for three hours and then I went to the hotel gym at 5:30 being careful to return before she woke up. Mark happily returned to sleep.
Amy is quiet but NOT shy - willful but willing to please if the boundary is clear. She is opinionated did NOT like the shoes I picked out for her at the shoe store - she knew exactly which ones she wanted. (Lucy - we may not be shopping for her but with her) We bought a small back pack for her and she is very excited about it - packing full of things like mama's bag - in fact she removed my calculator - her favorite toy, and put in hers, along with fruit snacks, water bottle, crayons, magnadoodle and a notebook. She ate a huge breakfast again - chose the following at the buffet: leek cakes, boiled dumplings, sauteed noodles with vegetables, pickled eggs and a french pastry - she ate it ALL! Today she likes me better - not wanting to let go of my hand at all - Mark is jealous - but I am sure it is because I sang to her and read to her for a long time last night -
Oh yes - the bed - Mark thinks they forgot to put the mattress on the boxspring! At a 5 star hotel no less! A whole new meaning to firm...
Anyway, we went back to the provincial office, paid some money, fingerprinted all of us, signed a bunch of papers and as far as China is concerned, she is legally ours!!!! She really does feel like she was meant for us and is amazingly happy with us - just wait till she sees what the chore list is like for an Everett kid.
Please keep sending comments - it is my lifeline - I really am very homesick - I love you all and love our home!
Teri
Amy is quiet but NOT shy - willful but willing to please if the boundary is clear. She is opinionated did NOT like the shoes I picked out for her at the shoe store - she knew exactly which ones she wanted. (Lucy - we may not be shopping for her but with her) We bought a small back pack for her and she is very excited about it - packing full of things like mama's bag - in fact she removed my calculator - her favorite toy, and put in hers, along with fruit snacks, water bottle, crayons, magnadoodle and a notebook. She ate a huge breakfast again - chose the following at the buffet: leek cakes, boiled dumplings, sauteed noodles with vegetables, pickled eggs and a french pastry - she ate it ALL! Today she likes me better - not wanting to let go of my hand at all - Mark is jealous - but I am sure it is because I sang to her and read to her for a long time last night -
Oh yes - the bed - Mark thinks they forgot to put the mattress on the boxspring! At a 5 star hotel no less! A whole new meaning to firm...
Anyway, we went back to the provincial office, paid some money, fingerprinted all of us, signed a bunch of papers and as far as China is concerned, she is legally ours!!!! She really does feel like she was meant for us and is amazingly happy with us - just wait till she sees what the chore list is like for an Everett kid.
Please keep sending comments - it is my lifeline - I really am very homesick - I love you all and love our home!
Teri
Gotcha Day!
We met Zoe at 9am in the hotel lobby. It was time to go meet Amy for the first time. Could this be happening so soon? We just got here. Were we ready? We jumped into the van and off we went. In less than one hour we would see her for the first time. If we could get there without getting into a auto/pedestrian or auto/auto or auto/scooter or auto/bicycle accident. The roads here are amazing and the drivers even better or do I mean worse. Everyone is going every which way but no one getting into an accident. Amazing. Anyways, I digress.
We arrived at the provincial office in one piece and were early. Yes I said we were early. We went into a large board room with a long conference table like I would imagine at the White House for a cabinet meeting. We sat down in chairs off to the side of the big table to wait as we were early! Within a few minutes 5 other couples with guides came and before we could even make introductions with these families the children were brought in.
We saw Amy right away. She was the first to come in. She was wearing a pink dress holding a red bag with snacks and the things we had sent to her in our care packages. We made eye contact and could tell she knew who we were. Then there were voices...pointing ...she was moving toward us...then in front of us, and there I was watching Amy hug Teri!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There was no crying or forcing things. She was on Teri's lap going through her bag, looking at everything as she pulled it out and then put things back in. The magnadoodle was a hit. Immediately, she was drawing what was obviously a house and then something that looked ilke snow. We realized she was drawing the picture of our house covered in snow that we sent with the care package. I asked Zoe to ask Amy if I could hug her. She nodded yes and there I was hugging my new daughter. Then I started with the camera.
We met with the orphanage director who answered some questions before he had to meet with other families. He was wonderful and seemed so warm. He said Amy, Wu Kang Qi, had only been in the orphanage and it was obvious that there was a connection of love and concern for her. They gave us a photo album with pictures of Amy over the last few years and pictures of the 16 kids in her "class", some of whom have been adopted and some not. We asked her to point to her "best friend". She did and we found out that she was adopted and in America somewhere.
In the eight hours we have been with her, she has shown she, likes things in their place, knows what she wants, likes to draw, has a sweet voice, has a voracious appetite, is very busy looking at everything we brought for her to play with and wants to hold both of our hands when walking. We went out to lunch and she organized all of our bowls, plates, cups, chopsticks etc.. When we returned we gave her a bath, she was very comfortable and then we read stories, ang songs and have a rest time as per her routine in the orphanage. She laid quitely for probably 1 and a half hours before falling asleep. We all slept and have been coloring/playing and now we will go find some shoes that fit. Back out into the furnace.
We are amazed that this is real and can't wait to get back home - we miss our kids bunches!!!
M and T
We arrived at the provincial office in one piece and were early. Yes I said we were early. We went into a large board room with a long conference table like I would imagine at the White House for a cabinet meeting. We sat down in chairs off to the side of the big table to wait as we were early! Within a few minutes 5 other couples with guides came and before we could even make introductions with these families the children were brought in.
We saw Amy right away. She was the first to come in. She was wearing a pink dress holding a red bag with snacks and the things we had sent to her in our care packages. We made eye contact and could tell she knew who we were. Then there were voices...pointing ...she was moving toward us...then in front of us, and there I was watching Amy hug Teri!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There was no crying or forcing things. She was on Teri's lap going through her bag, looking at everything as she pulled it out and then put things back in. The magnadoodle was a hit. Immediately, she was drawing what was obviously a house and then something that looked ilke snow. We realized she was drawing the picture of our house covered in snow that we sent with the care package. I asked Zoe to ask Amy if I could hug her. She nodded yes and there I was hugging my new daughter. Then I started with the camera.
We met with the orphanage director who answered some questions before he had to meet with other families. He was wonderful and seemed so warm. He said Amy, Wu Kang Qi, had only been in the orphanage and it was obvious that there was a connection of love and concern for her. They gave us a photo album with pictures of Amy over the last few years and pictures of the 16 kids in her "class", some of whom have been adopted and some not. We asked her to point to her "best friend". She did and we found out that she was adopted and in America somewhere.
In the eight hours we have been with her, she has shown she, likes things in their place, knows what she wants, likes to draw, has a sweet voice, has a voracious appetite, is very busy looking at everything we brought for her to play with and wants to hold both of our hands when walking. We went out to lunch and she organized all of our bowls, plates, cups, chopsticks etc.. When we returned we gave her a bath, she was very comfortable and then we read stories, ang songs and have a rest time as per her routine in the orphanage. She laid quitely for probably 1 and a half hours before falling asleep. We all slept and have been coloring/playing and now we will go find some shoes that fit. Back out into the furnace.
We are amazed that this is real and can't wait to get back home - we miss our kids bunches!!!
M and T
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Shopping Adventure
We arrived at the Guangzhou airport in time to get tickets and do a little window shopping. My choice was the Adidas golf shop. We entered the store and I found a shirt pleasing to the eye. As the price tag was not prominently placed, I asked the price and they quoted a very low price with little certainty in their voices. I liked the price and the store attendant chose a size XL and led me to try it on. Size XL was too small. ( Hey, they size things differently in China -I am a L/XL flip flopper in the US because I am tall). I advised the sales clerk. Within seconds all 6 female attendants were looking for size XXL. A moment later it was determined that there was no XXL in my desired style. In a flash a major sales offensive was underway with 6 women bringing size XXL in many styles all urging me to try on. As I was being rushed back to the fitting room I gave a directive to Teri to "make sure on the price!!". I could see that the clerk activity level was rising in both pace and volume. I came out of the fitting room..it fit.. size XXL for me?...With the real price calculated - of $90.00USD..."so sorry...No thank you," we politely declined.. As we left the store I cast one quick look back toward the shop to see 6 clerks looking wounded and maybe a bit disgruntled with the XXL American.
Olympic activity is building and I had my picture taken in front of these Table Tennis super stars. Time to switch sports kids... Ping Pong players have status like our basketball and football players in the US with far fewer injuries I'm sure.
The hotels are beautiful and the English translations of signs in the airport are amusing as they try to communicate with us in our language.
In spite of arriving at the Wuhan airport with a small hiccup, our guide Zoe is very warm, sweet, energetic and excited to help. She and Teri are getting along famously. The communication is interestesting, but we are managing just fine! Zoe walked us to a four story mall/supermarket to buy some essentials: bottled water, snacks - (our western options were Doritos and Oreos)... and pop (but no diet coke.... can she do it?)
We will see Amy this morning at 10 AM. We are so excited!!
The weather here makes Houston in August seem like the Oregon Coast in May. The high today was 96 F and 94% humidity, and as I write now at midnight it is 82F with 94% humidity. No need for Oil of O'Lay. Zoe described Wuhan as the "fire city."
Olympic activity is building and I had my picture taken in front of these Table Tennis super stars. Time to switch sports kids... Ping Pong players have status like our basketball and football players in the US with far fewer injuries I'm sure.
The hotels are beautiful and the English translations of signs in the airport are amusing as they try to communicate with us in our language.
In spite of arriving at the Wuhan airport with a small hiccup, our guide Zoe is very warm, sweet, energetic and excited to help. She and Teri are getting along famously. The communication is interestesting, but we are managing just fine! Zoe walked us to a four story mall/supermarket to buy some essentials: bottled water, snacks - (our western options were Doritos and Oreos)... and pop (but no diet coke.... can she do it?)
We will see Amy this morning at 10 AM. We are so excited!!
The weather here makes Houston in August seem like the Oregon Coast in May. The high today was 96 F and 94% humidity, and as I write now at midnight it is 82F with 94% humidity. No need for Oil of O'Lay. Zoe described Wuhan as the "fire city."
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Bobble Head Everett
We are in China after leaving home almost exactly 24 hrs ago. Smooth flying and I only misplaced the tickets once. Misplaced is the key word as I knew where I left them...at the ticket counter. They were still there 30 minutes later. Had they not, we would have been stranded in Tokyo. Teri wonders if this " lose it" trait comes from my mom or dad?
Teri had a great time watching me try to sleep on the planes. She was almost cackling as she described the scene as "you look like one of those bobble head dolls" The other response was "don't sleep that way..you look dead". Teri slept beautifully with her face flat on the fold down table top bent a complete 90 degrees at the waist. She was able to breathe because her face was in the middle of one of those blow-up-put-behind-your-neck-sleeping-aids. We did manage to get some sleep and had breakfast at 11 pm Spokane time as we were arriving in Tokyo at 5 pm Tokyo time.
I had my first adventure in the Asian restroom. I felt the urinal design to be more ergonomically pleasing. I researched but did not use the "squatty potty" which in Tokyo was private. There is also another interesting choice that is very high tech. I can't pronounce it or spell it and I won't go into details.
We leave for Wuhan tomorrow.
Mark
Teri had a great time watching me try to sleep on the planes. She was almost cackling as she described the scene as "you look like one of those bobble head dolls" The other response was "don't sleep that way..you look dead". Teri slept beautifully with her face flat on the fold down table top bent a complete 90 degrees at the waist. She was able to breathe because her face was in the middle of one of those blow-up-put-behind-your-neck-sleeping-aids. We did manage to get some sleep and had breakfast at 11 pm Spokane time as we were arriving in Tokyo at 5 pm Tokyo time.
I had my first adventure in the Asian restroom. I felt the urinal design to be more ergonomically pleasing. I researched but did not use the "squatty potty" which in Tokyo was private. There is also another interesting choice that is very high tech. I can't pronounce it or spell it and I won't go into details.
We leave for Wuhan tomorrow.
Mark
Friday, July 11, 2008
Labor Begins
It's 5:22 am and Mark and I have just finished packing -
we wouldn't want to disappoint any of you and get it done yesterday and sleep 8 hours before our 22 hour journey! Nah...That wouldn't be the Everett way now would it?
Anyway, beds have been purchased and set up (thanks Krisi) school work sorted and bookshelves organized (thanks mom), friends have been checked in with (great to visit Amanda and thanks for the ice cream Kristine), 5 cows were moved (thanks Terry and Joe), dogs are off to their vacation homes (thanks dad and McGowans), plants are in their new garden home (thanks Sherry), gifts for guides have been purchased (thanks Loree), children are delivered and cared for (thanks Couches, Sonnelands, Wursts, Zieglers, Mom, Wellers, Troop 380, and all who offered), chickens covered, (thanks Veenstras), Chinese money secured (thanks Karl), trailer stowed/fixed? (thanks Todd), travel bag and converter packed (thansk Katie and Terry), socks, undies and toothbrush for Amy bought (thanks Krisi) meds picked up - (thanks Sam) and scabies cream, pepto, and fannypacks checked off (thanks Dimmels) and the cat... oops!! - oh well - no problem, I have 2 more hours to figure that out when the neighbors wake up - tee hee... I have spent the week nesting like I am prelabor/delivery! What a week!!
Mark and I are humbled by our generous family and friends - thank you sooooo much for making this as smooth as possible for our family. It means so very much!!!!
We leave for the airport in 2 1/2 hours and I think I might have to catch an hour of sleep before I fall asleep on this keyboard -
Thanks again for your encouragement and prayers and sharing our excitement in this amazing process and privilege of bringing home another daughter!
P.S. Lucy, I found the missing phone!
we wouldn't want to disappoint any of you and get it done yesterday and sleep 8 hours before our 22 hour journey! Nah...That wouldn't be the Everett way now would it?
Anyway, beds have been purchased and set up (thanks Krisi) school work sorted and bookshelves organized (thanks mom), friends have been checked in with (great to visit Amanda and thanks for the ice cream Kristine), 5 cows were moved (thanks Terry and Joe), dogs are off to their vacation homes (thanks dad and McGowans), plants are in their new garden home (thanks Sherry), gifts for guides have been purchased (thanks Loree), children are delivered and cared for (thanks Couches, Sonnelands, Wursts, Zieglers, Mom, Wellers, Troop 380, and all who offered), chickens covered, (thanks Veenstras), Chinese money secured (thanks Karl), trailer stowed/fixed? (thanks Todd), travel bag and converter packed (thansk Katie and Terry), socks, undies and toothbrush for Amy bought (thanks Krisi) meds picked up - (thanks Sam) and scabies cream, pepto, and fannypacks checked off (thanks Dimmels) and the cat... oops!! - oh well - no problem, I have 2 more hours to figure that out when the neighbors wake up - tee hee... I have spent the week nesting like I am prelabor/delivery! What a week!!
Mark and I are humbled by our generous family and friends - thank you sooooo much for making this as smooth as possible for our family. It means so very much!!!!
We leave for the airport in 2 1/2 hours and I think I might have to catch an hour of sleep before I fall asleep on this keyboard -
Thanks again for your encouragement and prayers and sharing our excitement in this amazing process and privilege of bringing home another daughter!
P.S. Lucy, I found the missing phone!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
China Countdown Begins
Well - it is for real... one week from today we will be in Wuhan, China eagerly awaiting the meeting of our new daughter Amy Qi Everett. We are hardly able to believe this is actually happening and we are beyond excited. It really does feel like being pregnant and approaching your due date. I have even had all the nesting instincts and have very clean closets now! We would appreciate your prayers for all the adjustments that will take place very soon, for clear communication, safety, understanding, receptive hearts, our kids at home, and for wise choices in regard to where we invest our energies once home. This week will be full of paperwork preparation, animal care set up, packing, and lots more relating to getting Lucy, Matt and Jack situated. They have been amazingly mature and gracious about not going with us. Lots of details to manage so until Saturday... zaijain (good-bye - without the proper accent marks as I can;t figure those out on our computer)
Teri
Teri
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