Merry Christmas

This Christmas was so special. Our guy, Bobby, really rolled with the punches and is happy for us to be back home with his new sister. Shu Ping went with the flow. At church, I brought her to the front with me while I intended to take communion. Before I could intervene, she pinched off a piece a bread from the ministers hand, dunked it in the wine and moved on! She must have thought church was kind of fun; getting to stand up and sing a lot, waiting in line for a tiny snack (the communion) and getting to hold your own candle (well , mommy shared the candle) while the lights went out.

She enjoyed our Christmas cookie making, and watching some movies like Rudolph. We were vigilant about not over whelming anyone with an over abundance of gifts, so each child enjoyed their modest presents. I wonder if she thinks we always wake up to presents. Bibi has really enjoyed her new sister. Bobby and I watched The Christmas Story to end our day with some special time. He especially laughed at the scene of the Chinese Diner when they served the duck with its head still on.

We are home!!!

At last, after two days of flights, we are home. Our guide explained to Ping about our flights before she left us at the airport. Ping Ping was fully aware that this flight meant she was leaving her old home permanently. As we took off down the runway, she had tears streaming down her cheeks, yet she did not make a peep. I felt really bad for her, and tried to comfort her in my arms as best I could.

The flights were cramped and I was so tired I thought I would die. We were met at the airport by our oldest two, Jess & Bobby, and my sister and her son. Its sooooooooo nice to be home. She is taking to everyone nicely, yet a bit cautious with Bobby.

Bobby is camera shy lately, so he i snot in many of the welcome home photos. He is taking it all in too.

When Ping met the dogs, she was afraid, but soon took to them. By the end of the first night, I caught her riding on Eli's' back! Its time to prepare for Christmas, so the postings will slow. I believe Ping is already very happy here. Love to all and thanks for the support.

photos

Last day photos.............

Its our last day in China

We went to the pool, but we went too late, and the weather had changed. A wind picked up and the fog rolled in so the pool was chilly. The girls went in , but I did not. Ping was not scared one bit and enjoyed herself immensely.

Last night, we got together with the other two families we are traveling and ordered Papa Johns Pizza. Since Steve is the only one who speaks conversational Chinese, we let him do all the arrangements with both Papa Johns and the hotel guest services. Steve arranged it so we could have the recreational room for our pizza party and play air-hockey and arcade games. Everyone enjoyed themselves. I left my camera so there are no photos of this.

Today, is the day we go to the consulate and get her sworn in as an American Citizen. It takes effect when the airplane wheels touch down on the runway in Detroit on Thursday. I have already started packing.