Isabel's First Day at Westwood

Monday, August 31

Today was Isabel's first day at Westwood. She is in the 5th grade in Dr. Wright's class. All day Sunday Will and I asked her if she was excited about her first day at school. Each time she would respond would a smile and a shake of her head, no. We knew she was nervous.

This morning we were all up early for the big day. Will and I walked Isabel into school and to her room. When we reached her room across the door was a big banner signed by all her classmates saying, "Welcome Isabel." We only stayed a minute and then we left. She has the most wonderful class and teachers. We knew that she was in good hands.

I'll start tomorrow, so today I had a chance to be "story mom" in Isabel's class. I read a short book to her class about the characters in Chinese writing as well as answered questions about our trip.

This afternoon I picked Isabel up and began the parent pop quiz, "What did you do today?" She was quiet on the way home. I think it was a very overwhelming day for her. When we arrived home we began our reading homework. Isabel almost cried as we read. I can only imagine how overwhelmed she is feeling. I assured her that it will be fine.

It will be fine because I know how many people want her to succeed. It could not be a better learning situation. It will be slow going, but that is OK. As David in Ghangzhou, China says, "Take it easy!" she'll be fine.

She was worth the wait!
Will aka "Isabel's Dad, Marla aka "Isabel's Mom", and Isabel

Update From a Busy Week

August 29

We've had a very busy week. More firsts for Isabel. Thursday, a week ago, Isabel had her first haircut. I really don't think that she wanted to have a trim, but I insisted. It took both Virginia, the stylist, and me to assure Isabel that we would not cut off all her beautiful hair, only then did she agree. After Virginia was finished I think Isabel really did like her trim. Isabel's hair looked so pretty down, but as quickly as Virginia finished cutting her hair back into the ponytail it went.

Next we had lunch with a friend at a Chinese buffet. Isabel had a very good talking to on that day. I never miss a chance when someone is translating to interject..."please ask her to ask questions and talk." That usually gets Isabel a long lecture and that day was no exception. Those that are translating always say it much better than I ever could and usually tell Isabel their own story of when they first came to America.

Later that afternoon we went to visit a friend, Beth Smith, who had ordered Isabel a box of Chinese/English books. Beth is such a dear friend with whom I went to graduate school. She has been there through our whole adoption journey. The box included a Chinese Bible story book that Isabel reads each night before she goes to bed.

Thursday night we left for Pawleys Island. I think that Isabel understood the concept of a weekend vacation and was quite happy that this seven hour car trip didn't involve an airplane. The weekend was packed with activities. Friday morning we headed down to the beach. Isabel's first time to see the ocean. I think that Will and I were both expecting some big reaction, but that never happened. I think she was preoccupied with wearing her bathing suit. Something that she doesn't care for at all. When we were settled on the beach, I asked Isabel if she'd like to take off her shorts and shirt and just wear her bathing suit but she didn't and I didn't push it. Will said, "Let's go down and put our feet into the ocean." Isabel was game so off we went. What fun. Such a happy family. Well that didn't last long! As soon as Isabel wet her big toe a wave came in, washed over her feet, the sand washed out under her feet, and she went down. It happened in slow motion. She went all the way down and her clothes were wet and sandy. Will looked at me and said, "Well I think we've already ruined her on the beach." It did get better. We flew kites and looked for shells. All things considered, not a bad day given how it started.

Later, on Friday we headed out to get Isabel a bike. Yes, I know everyone in China rides bikes, but Isabel had never ridden. She picked out a really cute pink and purple bike. I really think that she was excited about the bike right up until I said, "Now let's pick out a helmet." To that I got the "no, no" finger. In response to the finger I told her that it was the law that children wear helmets when they ride bicycles. I'm not sure if it is the law or not, but at that point I wasn't above lying to the child. However, it didn't help that in S.C. people ride motorcycles without helmets. Will added training wheels to her bike and we were off.

Late Friday night Will's father phoned to tell us that Will's Uncle Jack had passed away. Uncle Jack and his wife Aunt Bobbie live in Surfside Beach not far from Pawleys Island. We would attend the funeral Sunday afternoon.

Saturday Isabel met her Grandpa Pridgen. Isabel shared pictures from her orphanage and our trip with her new Grandpa. We went out to lunch and then we headed to visit with Aunt Bobbie and Will's cousins. I think Isabel enjoyed the visit especially meeting new family members. Saturday Isabel met Will's Uncle Sonny and Aunt Margaret. They came down and stayed with us to attend the funeral.

Sunday afternoon we went to Uncle Jack's funeral. We did not do a very good job of explaining the funeral service to Isabel. We told her that we needed to get ready to go to church. That was the only way that we could get her into a skirt. Isabel was able to meet Will's sister Dargan and one of our nieces, Billie who came down for the funeral. Isabel never met Uncle Jack, but if she understood the language she would definitely know what kind of man he was after that service. The service was one of the most beautiful that I have ever attended.

Soon after the funeral we headed back to Dalton. We stopped to get drinks and I introduced Isabel to Slurpee's/Icee's. I knew she would like them and hoped she wouldn't get an "ice cream headache." As we were riding along I hear in the back seat the loud slurping of the straw at the bottom of the cup. As she sucked down that last little slurp I had to smile. I thought that's my little girl. I guess I've waited a long time to hear that annoying little sound, but you know, I loved it. It didn't annoy me one bit.

Monday morning we headed for the dentist's office for the first of two root canals. Isabel did great. I think I could have used a stiff drink, but she did great. She never complained, not before, during, or after. She is a brave little girl.

This past Friday night we took Isabel to her first football game. I don't think she knew what to think of the large cheering crowd. Will tried his best to explain football to Isabel. I just told her to cheer for the red team. I think she enjoyed the game. Go Big Red!

She was worth the wait!

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Enjoying Our Time

Wednesday, August 19th

The Pridgen family has settled into a routine and are enjoying our family time. Each day we have something to keep us busy. Whether it is our school work, visiting with friends or even doctors appointments, we are having fun.

Friday night Isabel went to her first birthday party. It was for Kara Crews who turned eighteen. I explained to Isabel that we would be eating in a nice restaurant and that she would not be able to wear her Mickey Mouse tennis shoes. I thought that she would shake her no, no finger at me, but to my surprise she came out of her room looking extremely cute with matching sandals for her outfit. I think that Isabel enjoyed Kara's birthday as much as Kara, if not more. After dinner, sweet Kara took Isabel to "Build-A-Bear" and helped her make her first teddy bear.

Sunday morning at church Isabel wore her sandals with her dress. Don't get me wrong, the Mickey tennis shoes are very cute, but they just don't quite go with every outfit.

Sunday afternoon Isabel learned another little lesson the hard way. We all three were playing with the Wii. You know how the Wii has a strap...well it has a strap for a reason. I repeatedly told Isabel to put on her strap. Each time she would just shake her head no, as if to say "no, really mom, I'm fine." I kept thinking "do I push this?", we're having such a good time. Well you know how this is going to end. About that time, the handset flew out of her hand and crashed into the light. I thought Will was going to fall off the sofa laughing and just like a true mother, I looked at Will, told him to stop laughing, and gave Isabel, "the look." Needless to say, she now wears the wrist band.

Monday Will had a dentist appointment so Isabel and I decided to go. We thought that it would be good for Isabel to see Will get his teeth cleaned so she wouldn't be nervous when she has her first visit to the dentist. While we were there we were surprised to be able to schedule an appointment for Isabel for the following day. On Tuesday Isabel and I went in for her appointment and I so glad we did. Isabel has beautiful straight teeth, however we were unaware of some extensive dental work to be done on several of her back teeth. We found that she has two abscessed teeth that must have root canals immediately. They made an appointment with endodontist and to our surprise it was for that afternoon. When we went for that appointment the dentist advised us to get our doctor to check Isabel before we begin this procedure since we have no knowledge of her family history. We have an appointment for tomorrow for a physical.

My brother and I were on the phone the other day and he asked if Isabel knew to call 911 in an emergency. Of course my response was, "she'll know it by tomorrow." It's little things like that you just take for granted that a child knows. We now have all the information scripted and by the phone. There are so many little things that we need to make sure that she knows.

She was so worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Lessons in Faith

Tuesday, August 11th-10:00 P.M.

Sorry I haven't written in a few days.

Saturday night we went to visit and have dinner with the Crews family. It was great to see them, talk, and share pictures. John and Kara were so sweet to entertain Isabel with Nintendo games. Isabel had a blast with them and is getting quite good at the video games. Kara gave Isabel a small Hello Kitty house. It is so cute. At one point Kara and John were playing with Isabel in the floor with it. They were so sweet to do that. Two young people taking their time to show Isabel that it is okay to play. That is really something she has a hard time with. Play should come so easily to children, but to her it doesn't.

Since we received the news about our adoption of Isabel in May I have always wondered and worried how will we teach this eleven year old child about Christ. How in the world can I do this when we have a hard enough time communicating. This was really weighing on my mind this weekend. Saturday afternoon I received a call from my dear friend Beth Smith and she said..."I know you and this has probably been worrying you, so I ordered you Bible stories in Chinese." Of course, I started to cry. An answer to a prayer. I really don't know why I worry so much. It is just a waist of my time.

Sunday morning we headed to the early service at church. Yes, I did finally get the child in a dress which was no easy task. She did, however, wear her black Mickey Mouse tennis shoes with the dress. You have to pick your battles, and the shoes I wasn't ready to tackle. Isabel did fine in church. However it was an emotional service for both Will and me. The youth led the service which was centered around there recent mission trip. One of the first young people to speak talked about their trip to an orphanage. This of course took me immediately to Isabel's life before us and the difficulties she must have experienced. Next, we stood to sing a song. Two Sundays ago when we went to church in Guangzhou we sang a song that I had never heard before. I remember the song well because it was very moving to see so many sing this song in English. Well...we sang that very same song Sunday morning! Talk about a wake up call! Well it gets better. Just about the time I'm thinking this service was tailor made for me, the music director sang a solo entitled, "Orphans of God."

Orphans Of God
Who here among us has not been broken
Who here among us is without guilt or pain
So oft’ abandoned by our transgressions
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

There are no strangers
There are no outcasts
There are no orphans of God
So many fallen, but hallelujah
There are no orphans of God

Come ye unwanted and find affection
Come all ye weary, come and lay down your head
Come ye unworthy, you are my brother
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

O blessed Father, look down upon us
We are Your children, we need Your love
We run before Your throne of mercy
And seek Your face to rise above

Last night Isabel went to her first Chattanooga Lookouts game. Bank of America sponsored the evening complete with hamburgers and hot dogs. No rice or chopsticks for Isabel. We asked what she would like and she quickly replied, hamburger. Well we've found something she doesn't care for, hamburgers. She took off the meat patty and ate bun. She also does not care for baked beans or slaw. It was moving to watch her take it all in especially the "Star Spangled Banner."

This morning Isabel read to me "The Cat in the Hat." She can read the words, but of course, the comprehension isn't there yet. Still very quiet and shy but seems to be relaxing a little more each day.

Thanks so much for all your love and support through our journey thus far. We know we have a long road ahead of us, but together we'll take it one day at a time.

She was worth the wait.

Hugs and kisses.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Visit to "The" Kroger

Friday, August 7th-9:30 P.M.

You know I've never really enjoyed going to the grocery store, but today was a little different. Isabel and I had a grand time in the produce section this morning. I'm starting to think that if you sent this child a fruit basket she would just think it was the best gift ever. We bought some plums today, among other things, which I don't think she has tried before. She smells everything if it is new to her and she smelled the plums. So of course, I too, smelled the plums to see if they have a smell. They don't. So we filled up with fruits and went on. I wanted to stop at the bakery. Isabel, not so much. Throughout the store she picked out several things that she liked all of which were very healthy. I, on the other hand, wanted to get a bag of Cheetos. In the drink aisle Isabel picked up a 12 pack of Mountain Dew for Will without hesitation. She knows her father far to well. The next time I complain about going to the grocery store please remind me of what a fun time I had this morning. I really enjoyed it.

This evening we headed out for dinner. I promise we don't eat out everyday. This week has just been a little crazy. We didn't eat Chinese tonight... we ate Mexican! We thought that we would just try to make Isabel tri-lingual. She had chips and salsa and chicken fajitas. Of course, she had rice with her meal. However, she didn't really care for the black beans. We all had to eat with forks tonight. Next time we will pack our chopsticks before we head out. Won't a family eating with chopsticks at a Mexican restaurant blow people's minds.
The Pridgen family gives Garcia's restaurant 7 chopsticks.

This evening Yan, Isabel's English teacher, sent us an email.

Dear the Pridgens,
I am Yan , Isabel's English teacher in China ,do you still remember me ?
I knew from the blog, Meet Isabel, you have been home , and everything seems to go well~~
I am really happy about this. Time is the best gift from the God, so everything and everybody will be better and better.
I miss Isabel these days. I am always thinking of the days when we studyed together.
Tell Isabel I miss her. ~~
I showed the photos of you three for my family, and they said Marla looked pretty, and you are all nice~~
I really wish that I can meet you all again~~ If you come to Huidong, I will be your guide~ Or if I go to the States, please be my guide~~~~~
O(∩_∩)O~~
Could you please share something interesting in your life with me if you are free？？ O(∩_∩)O~
By the way, if you need help, please please don't hasitate to write to me !
All love and prayers for you~~~~~
Yours,
Yan

We just think that Yan is the sweetest young lady. We are so happy that she was a part of Isabel's life. She is always welcome here and we would love for her to come.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Searching for a Routine

Thursday, August 6th-10:30 P.M.

Will started back to work on Wednesday. I know that it was hard for him to leave his new little daughter. For eighteen years Will has had the same routine, up at 5:30, off to work by 6:45. All it took for him to change his routine is one little girl named Isabel. For Will's first day back at work he had the perfect vision of a nice family breakfast. Every other day that would be fine since Isabel is usually an early riser. Of course, Isabel quickly burst his bubble. Wednesday morning was the day that Isabel chose to sleep in. I tried to tell Will that this family breakfast idea was fine while I wasn't working, however I just couldn't make any promises after I started back to work. I tried to assure him that Pop Tarts probably came in some type of Asian variety. Thank heavens Isabel helped me out of this one by sleeping late.

For the last two days we have been trying to establish a daily routine. Each morning after breakfast we begin our work on English. We've been working in basic reading books on phonics and sight words. We have also been using the computer to visit various children's educational websites. Isabel has never worked on the computer so this really seems to hold her attention. Each morning Isabel does a little more and, if nothing else, puts my mind at ease that she will be fine.

Today was day four of visiting Asian restaurants in Dalton. Will and I have started rating each restaurant with a similar scale to our hotel Chinese lantern scale. We rate on a 1-10 Chinese Chop Sticks scale. We thought about becoming Asian restaurant food critics and having a column in the Daily Citizen on Sundays. If you need any information about an area Asian restaurant please contact us at
555-ASIA. It really has been nice because each day we've met someone at each restaurant that speaks Chinese and will have a conversation with Isabel in her native tongue. The people that we have met have been so kind. They always offer their phone number and tell us not to hesitate to call and they will translate. They are just being incredibly nice but they will never know how much it means to us. We've added them all to our Chinese hot line list.

Isabel has met so many people in the last four days. We were afraid that she may be overwhelmed but she seems to be taking it all in stride. Yesterday she met friends from the bank and Dalton Public Schools central office including the superintendent. I went to school this afternoon to pick up a few things from work. Isabel was able to meet many of the teachers. Everyone was so sweet to her and I know that she had to enjoy the attention. I feel that this child will have so many people that will love her and watch over her. I must say I don't know what I did to get so lucky to work at such a wonderful school.

This evening Isabel asked to call the orphanage. Well, she didn't ask. She brought her little notebook with numbers to Will and then pointed to the phone. He asked her if she wanted to call China and she said yes. She made the call. We put the phone on speaker phone and listened but please don't ask us what was said. She chatted up a storm. We can only image what was said but she did seem to enjoy it and the phone was handed off several times during the conversation. Today we picked up our pictures from the trip. We think that seeing the pictures of friends made Isabel a little homesick.

She was so worth the wait!
Hugs and kisses to all!

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Shopping Bonanza

Tuesday, August 4th 11:15 P.M.

I've never enjoyed my shopping at Target so much. Today the new and improved Pridgen family went to Target to pick up some things for Isabel. We did not realize we were in need of a Hello Kitty alarm clock. Last night Isabel indicated that she needed a bedside clock so we added that and several other things to our list. We now also proudly own a Hello Kitty electric toothbrush. We think Hello Kitty will fit in perfectly with our family. However, if our preexisting kitty, Tigger, doesn't calm down Hello Kitty may be the only kitty in this house. How quickly priorities change.

Shopping doesn't come quite as easily to Isabel as it does to most children. Today as we walked by the bicycles we told Isabel that soon we would get her a bicycle. She gave us the "no, no" finger. It was funny because we both turned around, smiled and said, "yes, you will learn to ride a bike, and swim too." As we walked down the toy aisle we told her that it would be fine to pick out a toy. Toy after toy we would stop and say "Do you like this?" Her response was that same little wagging "no, no" finger. We did get her a badminton set and a few other outdoor toys.

Next we headed to the Fresh Market in Chattanooga to check out their Asian section. Isabel didn't want a toy, but boy did her face lite up in the produce section. It looks like Isabel will soon have the Pridgens eating healthier.

Isabel met her first American friend tonight. We went over to the Carlsons for Isabel and Rachel to meet. Children can communicate in ways adults and children cannot. I can tell that the two will be great friends. I'm so glad that Isabel has such a sweet friend and role model.

She was worth the wait and adding pleasure to our lives.
Hugs and kisses to all.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

The Gift of Friendship

Monday, August 3rd 10:30 P.M.

We are finally home. We made our flights and all went well. We have rested this afternoon, but I still don't think we are completely caught up on our sleep. We arrived home to a beautifully decorated front porch complete with a huge pink and green banner that read "Welcome Home Isabel.".

Our family has experienced so many "firsts" this last twenty days. For so long we thought that by adopting we might feel that we missed out on all those baby firsts; first steps, first words. But we definitely don't feel that way now. Our "firsts" are just different. You will never know how much pleasure we experienced watching Isabel explore her new home. We know that shy little girl enjoyed exploring her room filled with clothes and gifts from family and friends. We can't help but think she is having Christmas in August.

The Chattanooga airport homecoming was a wonderful experience today. We were met by several of our friends. We had no idea how Isabel would react but I think she could completely understand the love and friendship that was expressed to both her and her parents. I can't tell you how happy we were to see familiar faces.

I will never be able to tell you how much our friends and family have meant to us during this trip. It has always been difficult for us being away from our family. However, for this trip, our friends had to play the leading role in helping us out. I know that our family would agree that saying thank you will never be enough to express our gratitude. We still haven't read all the posts. We now understand how all our prayers were answered; we were not alone in our prayers.

Tigger sends her love to all and for those of you know our "sweet kitty." You will be shocked to know that we think she and Isabel will get along just fine. She has not hissed one time. The Crews family and Dr. Lisa have completely spoiled our kitty.

We will continue to post to keep you updated on Isabel's progress. Please continue to keep our family in your prayers. The Pridgen family has a long way to go, but hopefully with each passing day Isabel will make progress.

We will close by saying a special thank you to Gary, Kim, John, and Kara Crews. They have helped us so much. They took care of "sweet kitty", filled our refrigerator with food, set up our blog, and were our connection to home. But we have to say that Kim did bring us both to tears this afternoon with a present that she left for us. Kim painted the sweetest canvas with her "kids" design. This poem is a the top of the canvas.

The Family Portrait

Once upon a time a Canvas was set.
Long before we ever met,
God placed it on the Easel. He waited.
A special Portrait would be Painted.

He set aside a Palette of Colors,
He knew just how to use them.
God waited till the Time was right,
then He began to choose them.


Placing His brush upon the Canvas
God painted an image Extraordinaire.
The details seemed faint at first,
but the Picture was truly there.

A Portrait of a Family;
a child, a mom, a dad.
This painting had something Extra,
God used everything He had.

His Palette was full of Colors,
He knew just what it would take.
Each Stroke was deliberately brushed in place.
A Special Portrait He would make.

He blended dark shadows with subtle hues of Gold.
Using the richest colors, a picture began to unfold.
One very special child, two fathers and two mothers.
The image began taking shape with such beautiful colors.

Splashes of Love outlined colors of Pain.
Shades of Joy and Sadness
were mixed throughout the Picture,
among Stripes of Sorrow and Gladness.

The Portrait was finally complete,
He gently framed it with His Heart
He hung it in the Halls of Faith . . .
A Priceless Work of Art.

She was worth the wait!

Hugs and kisses to all.
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Change of Address Notification

Sunday, August 2nd 11:00 P.M. EST

This blog entry is to notify you that the Pridgen family, formerly of Rocky Face, GA, now reside in Chicago, Illinois at the Hilton Hotel. When Isabel starts to school, if I'm correct, she will be registered as homeless.

As you may have gathered we made it as far as Chicago. All this started with that "little" door problem in Beijing. We have been shuffled to every airline. We have discovered that all airlines far over booked and evidently only send one flight per day to the southeast. Our bags are getting better assistance than we are. We were told that they made it to Chattanooga!

You may be asking yourself how could they possibly miss their flight when they were at the airport. Yeh, well we would like to know that, too. When we got to Chicago everything was going fine until we discovered that our gate had been changed and then later we found that they really didn't book us on that flight anyway. We were booked for August 3. Now if you are really confused do not fret. We truly have no idea how this happened nor do the people at Northwest, Alaskan, or American Airlines. Each time we share our plight to the attendants they say "you started from China?"

We can only wonder what Isabel thinks about her parents not being able to make it home. We just hope she understands. I hope, if nothing else, she can understand by the expressions on our faces. She even laughed a little when we were going through it all today.

With everything that has happened today we have had a wonderful evening. We have a very nice room at the Hilton. On a scale of 1 to 7, we give the Hilton 7 chinese lanterns. (The Sino-Swiss received 2 lanterns and our hotel last night we rated at 3 lanterns.). We all three played Nintendo 64 for the first time and we ordered a pizza from room service. Great evening, but best of all Isabel smiled all evening while she was playing. Seeing her smile made this day all worth it.

She was worth the wait!

Hugs and kisses to all.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Sleepless in Seattle

Time-Can't do the math-
6:30 A.M./P.M.
(The sun is shining if that helps) Date-The Friday that keeps going
Really Saturday, August 1st

Mood-Tired, hungry, and we are afraid Isabel is eyeing new prospects for parents.

Good news and bad news. The good news, we are in the United States. The bad news, we are on the wrong side of the United States. We are once again stuck in Seattle. Again today.....oops... wrong...I mean yesterday, we were up at 4:30 for an early flight from Beijing to Tokyo (three hour flight). "Little" door problem at the beginning of the flight, but we were only delayed for a few minutes. However...when we arrived in Tokyo we were delayed four and a half hours with the same "little" door issue. Door never closed so we got new plane with door handle and we left Tokyo at 7:30 P.M. on our ten hour flight to Seattle.

And you remember this next part from the first leg of our trip. We missed all our connecting flights. Once in Seattle we had two hours of waiting to get Isabel's paperwork processed. With the two hour processing time our bags went through customs without us and were heading toward Chattanooga. Crazy lady at the ticket line had the nerve to ask where we had been and why we weren't with our bags. I guess she finally got the message when our heads almost spun around and Will and I simultanously said "we have been in immigration and customs" .....like we could actually go somewhere else.

Needless to say our day was going less than perfect. We went to dinner and it was not good. Isabel did not eat, which was a first. We checked into some hotel we've never heard of (a quarter star up from Sino-Swiss.) We've had no sleep, a child that we think is regressing from about ten words a day to may three. I've had about seventeen hours on a plane to think about how difficult this is going to be. I would be lying if I didn't tell you that there are times when we wonder about just what have we gotten ourselves into.

However, after dinner I noticed that this hotel has a business center. Thought I would look at the blog. Deanna had mentioned that people could make comments so I took a look. Well, I was overwhelmed by the words of our family and friends. It was truly the answer to my prayers from many hours earlier. You would not believe how your kind words lifted my spirits.

Heading home tomorrow. If all goes well we should be in Chattanooga 8:45 P.M.

She was worth the wait!

Hugs and kisses to all.

Will, Marla, and Isabel

Back to Beijing

Friday, July 31st-3:00 P.M.

Well....we are back in Beijing. We were up this morning at 4:30 for a 10:00 flight. Isabel did well for her first flight ever. She walked on the plane, sat down, went to sleep, and woke up when we landed. I don't know why Will and I were worried. In Beijing we got off to the plane and were supposed to be met by a driver to take us to the hotel. Didn't happen. Evidently the driver was late. Not good when you don't speak Chinese. We were able to phone one of our guides, Susan and she met us.

Now we are at the Sino-Swiss Hotel. Not remotely close to a five star. If this hotel is any indication of lodging in Switzerland we won't be vacationing there anytime soon. When we arrived, the guide closed Will's hand in the car door. I thought he had lost it, the fingers that is. Will did not say a word. Later he told me he didn't want to cuss in front of Isabel. Needless to say it is very swollen and we can't find ice.

9:30 P.M.-Well we're still going. We've just returned from a wonderful afternoon of sight seeing. Susan our guide bought Will an herbal pain reliever for his finger. She said it was to stimulate blood flow. Will was putting it on his fingers and accidently poured the bottle all over his shorts. We all got dizzy on herbal fumes.

We climbed the Great Wall of China 362 steep steps straight up to the first watch tower and 362 straight down. It was a most awesome site. The pictures will never do it justice. When we reached the tower there was a nice cool breeze blowing. We could have spent the afternoon there but we were off again. Next we went to the Olympic stadium, the "Bird's Nest" and the "Cube" aquatic center. From there we went to Tian an men Square. Being at the places that we've only seen on TV is amazing.

Will and I have been awe struck by the magnifcent sites we've seen but Isabel has reacted just as a typical eleven year old whose parents are dragging her around to boring museums. I know that she will eventually appreciate that she has seen many of the significant sites from her homeland. Right now I think that this shy child is doing all she can to process how her life has changed in the past twelve days. We have been amazed at her strength. It truly breaks my heart that at eleven years old she has not had a family to love, guide, teach and protect her. She is so brave. Would I have had the strength to endure all that she has, probably not. Please keep Isabel in your prayers that she adjusts well to her new life in America with her new family.

We ended this eventful day with a traditional dinner of Beijing Roast Duck. Other dishs included shrimp, very spicy potatos and an even hotter rice dish. When we got back to the hotel we discovered roast duck on Will's back. Obviously have not mastered chopsticks.

She was worth the wait!

Hugs and kisses to all!

Will, Marla, and Isabel

U.S. Consolate

Thursday, July 30th 6:00 P.M.

Today we had an easy day. Isabel slept in until 7:30. I know that this has been such a crazy week for her so we were happy to have her get a little extra rest. We headed out this morning to do a little shopping. We needed a suitcase for Isabel and just picked up a few small things.

We were amazed at some of the prices of things that we've seen. I almost hate to tell you the prices, it may upset you. Two things that we really wanted but they didn't work out. North Face jacket...thirty-five dollars. Of course...... did they have Isabel's size?...no. And the kicker, sorry Mark, a set of Callaway golf clubs and bag, two hundred sixty-five dollars. I know Mark, you're never going to let me live this one down.

This afternoon we had an appointment with the U. S. Consolate. It wasn't a big deal, really just a formality. We now have Isabel's Chinese passport and everything we need to get her back to the U. S. She becomes a U. S. citizen as soon as we land in the states. We were also given the super-important "brown" envelope containing all her vital information complete with instructions not to open. Evidently it is only to be opened by the U. S. customs officals.

Tonight we will pack and head back to Beijing tomorrow. After our three hour flight we will have a day of site seeing. They have arranged for us to do the tours that we missed the first day due to weather delays. It will be nice to do this with Isabel. If there hadn't been that storm in Memphis on day one we would not have had the opportunity to experience this with Isabel. Funny how little things like this have a way of working out.

Foods we skipped in Ghangzhou.
"I know that YOU may eat these, but we didn't."
Eel festival
Black Fungus
Spicy Chicken Feet
BBQ Dried Squid

She was worth the wait and is our new hand to hold.
Hugs and kisses to all!
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Chinese Hospitality

Last night our Thai food was wonderful. Maybe we just hadn't had authentic Thai food before, but it was delicious. A funny thing happened at dinner. Susan our other guide ordered a dessert for the group. It was very pretty, but we had no idea what it was. When we asked, she told us that it was a very traditional Thai dessert made with taquilla. Will and I looked at each other and told Susan that we thought that maybe Isabel was a little too young for taquilla. Susan said no, no it's fine for kids, "no problem." After more discussion about the merits of giving alcohol to children, we discovered Susan meant tapioca. A bit different than tequilla. Some things get lost in translation. The group got a big kick at Susan's expense. So needless to say our groups favorite dessert is now "Taquilla Squares."

This morning David took us to Guangzhou Park. Yet again, another amazing adventure. Armed with camera, video camera, and backpack the Pridgen's are such tourists. I'm sure Isabel is already completely embarassed by her parents. I guess she just needs to go ahead and get over it. I'm sure this won't be the last time we embarass her.

This beautiful park is located right in the middle of the metropolitan city. We spent about two hours hiking through it. The park is almost completely shaded but Will and I sweated through our clothes. Not a drop of sweat on Isabel....always seems fresh as daisy. We thought the south was humid, evidently we didn't know what humid was. South China in summer is in a league of its own.

After the park David took us to his house for lunch. We met his beautiful wife Gigi. Gigi and her mother made a huge lunch for us. We had chicken, fish, squid, pork, greens, eggs, and of course rice. After lunch we sat down for hot tea and Gigi entertained us with traditional Chinese music. Gigi is a professional musican and is extremely talented. David has been a true blessing during this entire trip. He and his family have shown us sincere hospitality and given us an experience unlike any others in our group. We will never forget him or his family and it feels like we have made a true friend. We don't have any way of repaying him but perhaps one day he can travel to the states. We would welcome David and his family anytime.

We're headed out now to get Isabel something for dinner. Will and I will skip dinner after our filling lunch. We have to get back early so that we can work on our English and be ready for our favorite Chinese soap opera at 8:00. I don't know what we will do when we come home. Maybe David can email us and keep us updated on our soap.

She was worth the wait and is our new hand to hold.
Hugs and kisses to all.
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Rainy Day in Guanghoz

We just returned from having lunch at.....Subway. Yes, good 'ol Subway. The only other American restaurant here on Shamain Island besides Papa Johns. Isabel seemed to be ok with it. I thought it was great and you didn't have to eat it with chopsticks. Tonight we are having dinner with the group at a Thai restuarant. I'm not a big fan of Thai in the U.S. so we'll have to see how that goes. I'm sure it will be great.

This morning we went with several in the group to a wholesale baby clothing place. We went along because we thought it might have other clothes for older children. The group divided up and shopped for about an hour. This was probably not our favorite place. It was a little hairy. We had been warned about pick pockets. We didn't stray too far from the main drag. Since we are obviously American we do get lots of looks. Many people come up to us and ask for money or try to sell us misc. stuff. Yesterday while we were with David at the movies a woman came up to Will asking for money and would not let it go. David started screaming at her and she screamed back. Finally Will and David both screamed and she left us alone. It was quite funny. All in all I feel very safe here in China, but we are always very careful.

When we were coming back it started raining harder than I think I've ever seen it rain. Within just a matter of minutes the water was up to peoples knees. Guangzhou has no drainage system. I feel very sorry for the people walking and on bikes. Today I phoned home and spoke with my mother. It was a quick conversation but it was good to hear her voice. Luckily we've had the blog so that our family could keep up with us daily. I know that our family is worried but at least this way since they can't be here with us we can let them know how we are doing each day. We will be forever grateful to John and Kara Crews for helping us to set up our blog.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all.
Will, Marla, and Isabel

American Pleasure

July 27th-9:30 P.M.

Today was a pretty relaxing day. This morning we took our laundry and did a little shopping. Later in the morning we watched a man as he loaded our laundry on to his bike and off he went to heaven only knows where. I have a feeling that one of the days we are going to be going though town and see our laundry hanging from someone's apartment window.

This afternoon David picked us up and took us the the movies. We saw Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. It was in English with Chinese subtitles. The movies were very similar to our movies with one exception. Assigned seats. Pretty smart huh. Isabel did seem to enjoy the movies. Another first for her. Bless her heart I think everything we have done this week has been a first for her.

We also went to McDonalds. I've never enjoyed McDonalds so much. It was very crowded. Will and I shared some fries. Isabel still won't try french fries. Our young grasshopper doesn't know what she is missing.

After our little excursion we just came back to the hotel and went to the "deli" for dinner. Not really a deli because they don't have sandwiches. Only authentic Chinese food but it's cheap. Not my favorite place but Will and Isabel like it. Will and I are getting quite handy with the chopsticks. You have to. They don't give you the fork option at the deli.

We've been trying to work on our English each night before we go to bed. Isabel is so shy. She still is really not talking to us much during the day. I'm really worried about her school work. It has been very slow going. This is one time I wish I wasn't a teacher. I really want her to succeed in school and I think it is stressing me out. I guess I need to remember that Isabel has only been with us for one week today and Rome wasn't built in a day.

She was worth the wait!
Love ya, need ya, miss ya!
Will, Marla, and Isabel

The Things We Take for Granted

Sunday-July 26th, 1:00 P.M.
Just returned from a wonderful church service. There is one Chrisitian and one Catholic church on Shamain Island. Very sad, these are the only two churches we have seen since we have been in China, and we have been all over this city and two other cities. Wow, the things we take for granted. The service was translated into English and even one English hymn. Not one that we know, but sang along and enjoyed it very much. It was very moving to see the excitment for Christianity. You could not have packed another person into that church. When the service was over a young woman came up to us and asked if we were from American and if we were Christian. Then she asked how long we had been Chrisitians. Will and I just looked at each other and then told her since we were little. We couldn't help but think how blessed we are to have parents that introduced Jesus Christ to us at such an early age. We will keep our new Chrisitian friend "Judy" in our prayers.

We are back now with our large travel group. (six other families). It has been nice to see them and hear there stories and meet their children. We found that while they were away several people have gotten sick. We have been very lucky. Hope our luck holds out.

Isabel is smiling a little more each day. Food has not been nearly as difficult for her as we thought it would be. Last night we introduced her to Papa John's Pizza. We ordered from our room and they delivered to the hotel on a bicycle. It was a real treat. She ate a piece of cheese pizza and a bread stick.

Boy it is a small world. We were in a store last night and struck up a conversation with another adoptive couple. We of course asked were they were from. They were from Jefferson, North Carolina and went to Appalachian State. They were there the same years as my sister and bother-in-law and are friends with my sister's two college roommates. Small world!

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all,
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Trip to the Zoo

Saturday-July 25th-2:00 P.M.

This morning David took us to the Guangzhou Zoo. It was a great. The zoo was right in the heart of Guangzhou. It had a wide variety of animals from both China and Africa and yes Pandas. I think Will enjoyed it more than Isabel, neither had been to the zoo before. We think Isabel enjoyed the zoo, but of course we don't know for sure.

She still is barely speaking even with David. We've been told that Isabel speaks a different dialect call "Hakka.". Yesterday at the orphanage we asked if she was scared of anything. They told us that she was not scared of anything except people. We all laughed at that. Shyness seems to be her only issue. She is so timid. Please say a prayer that she will grow out of this. Isabel has such a pretty smile, but we only rarely see it. And when she does smile she covers her mouth with her hand. We really don't have any pictures where she is smiling.

A little while ago we received a phone call from the front desk telling us that we had to move from our room 1527 to 1823. Do you know how long it took us to explain that to Isabel? The way we understood it, they had to move everyone on the 15th floor to another floor. Some type of problem. They sent a crib to the room instead of the small bed. We then tried to tell them that we needed a roll away bed. We thought they understood and when we came back we had both a crib and an extra bed. We finally just gave up and moved to crib ourself. As you can see our Chinese is not great.

We are now moved and resettled in our new room. We're relaxing watching TV. We are really starting to enjoy Chinese TV. It's quite different than American tv, many soap opera type shows. We have a little routine of dinner then bath time. This is followed by studying English letters and phrases then a little TV before bed at nine. Similar to her schedule at the orphanage. Each night we watch the same soap opera. Will and I call it "As China Turns." It's really getting good. Last night I couldn't hear the TV and I found myself telling Isabel to turn it up. Will started laughing and said, "why do you have to hear it, you have no idea what they are saying.". Isabel just looked at us and smiled.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses, love to all!
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Emotioal Day-Trip of a Lifetime to Huidong

July 24th 3:00 P.M.
We are in the van headed back to Ghangzhou after a trip to Isabel's orphanage in Huidong. Words will not be able to express what we have experienced today.

We left the hotel this morning at 8:00 and arrived at the orphanage at 11:00. The three hour trip was not bad. Isabel does get car sick so we gave her medicine to make the trip. She slept almost the whole way to Huidong and is asleep now. The trip had beautiful scenery. Reminded us of the North Carolina mountains. David, our guide, has always referred to Isabel as being from the country so we where expecting rural and country. To our surprise, Huidong is a huge city. We saw things today that you could only see in China. The city is very crowded. There were a lot of motorcycles, mo-peds and many homemade looking vehicles.

We easily found the orphanage as Ms. Wang met us downtown. When we arrived at the orphanage there was a large gate that was guarded. Ms. Wang, the lady that brought Isabel to us last week, took us into the main office to formally meet the director and have hot tea. (I think that all the problems for the world could be solved over Chinese hot tea.) There we also met Isabel's English teacher, Yan. Yan was very sweet and we welcomed an additional interpreter. As soon as we arrived Isabel vanished. This worried me for a minute but of course I knew that she had gone to share with her friends all her experiences of the past week. Or, for all we knew, she could have been telling another girl, "No really, you go with them, I'll stay here.". After a long tea time we went upstairs to meet Isabel's friends, see her room and meet her caregivers. Everyone was so friendly. We took lots of pictures. If it were up to us, Will and I would adopt all twenty children in the orphanage. We even joked with David about bringing home another little girl named Huidon. David laughed and said "This isn't Africa, you can't just take them all."

The orphanage was clean and well kept. It has only been open since 2005. The grounds were well maintained. After more tea, pictures, exchanges of addresses and waves goodbye Ms. Wang rode with us to show us where Isabel was found. It turned out to be a health clinic. It was pouring rain. Isabel had no idea why we were stopping and she sat in the van with the driver while we got out to take pictures. We were there for less than three minutes. It was very hard not to be extremely emotional, but we made it. (Isabel is as tough as nails and I'm learning to be too.)

We proceeded on to lunch only to find that we would be having lunch with Ms. Wang, Yan the English teacher, and the orphanage director. Will and I were hoping to just stop for Isabel, David, and the driver and we would eat cheese crackers. It didn't happen that way. We arrived at a large nice restuarant and were taken upstairs to a private room. There was a large round table set for us as nice as any I've ever seen. David and the director discussed what we would eat. I think that Will could sense my stress at the thought of eating a true Chinese meal with our new friends. We all sat down for lunch after tea and I think appetizers. The food soon followed and kept coming. Isabel was fine and had no problem. As for Will and me, thank goodness we had David and Yan. David told me what each dish was and Yan helped Will. We ate family style with chop sticks only. To my surprise, the food was wonderful, although there were several animal heads that kept going by on the lazy susan. This was by far the best meal we've had since we have been here. The fellowship could not have been better. We tried to pay for the meal but the orphanage director would not let us. When we asked how we could repay him for his hospitality he just asked us to love and take care of Isabel. With that, I teared up and we promised that we would do just that.

After that, we said our tearful goodbyes and we were off again. Today was wonderful for us because we were able to learn so much about Isabel and her life before us. The orphanage director discribed Isabel as the quietest, healthiest, and the toughest child in the orphanage. Ms. Wang added that they have never seen Isabel cry. Isn't that funny she doesn't cry and she has already seen both of her parents cry. I guess you have to be tough as nails when you've been through what Isabel has in her eleven short years. If you've never had a family to love you and all your worldly possessions can fit into one small backpack things are just different. I feel that we have been given a great gift and God hand picked this child for us.

Please keep us in your prayers that we can give her the life that she deserves.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all.
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Doctor Visit and all is Well

12:00 noon-Thursday July 23rd
We have just returned from Isabel's physical exam. Another cultural experience. The exam center is located here on Shamian Island. Nice ten minute walk from the hotel. The exam is for Isabel's entry to the U.S. She was a real trooper. It was a two hour process. Isabel had to get five shots. I think it was harder on us watching than it was on Isabel.

Yesterday afternoon we went to the police station to apply for Isabel's passport. David could not take us so he arranged for his coworker, Rebecca, to take us. She was so cute and bubbly. It was not a long process but all the same it was a process. Like David, Rebecca has to translate everything for us and in the midst of her translating she got in trouble for talking too loudly. It was quite funny. She really wasn't talking loud at all. However there were signs everywhere saying "be quiet.".

Last night after we returned from another culinary adventure at Lucy's we taught Isabel how to play cards. We just played war although Will wanted her to learn Texas Hold-em. Isabel won war hands down of course then we made her count her cards aloud. Before bed each night we practice letters and last night we did math too. No problem with math.

Will is finding that banks in China are quite different than in the states. Before we traveled we were told that our U.S. money had to be new bills. Now we know why. They individually inspected every bill. This made for a long process when changing dollars to rmb. Also yesterday we were out shopping with David and a van stopped in front of us and four men jumped out in full body armor and machine guns. Will and I almost had a heart attack. David just laughed at us. I was the Chinese equivlient of Wells Fargo.

Isabel is learning to snack. Right now she is sitting here eating Lays potato chips and drinking Mountain Dew. She is definitely Will's daughter. Will was thrilled to find Mountain Dew and now he has Isabel drinking it. We'll have to work on this bad habit.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all,
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Solar Eclipse in China

Not many people from Dalton, GA have the opportunity to see a once in a lifetime eclipse in China the way we did. Another wonderful memory. This morning David our tour guide took us to Family Chen's Temple. It was breathtaking. I think we enjoyed it a little more than Isabel. She's a kid, and how much do kids really enjoy museums?

Last night we ate at an Italian restaurant here on the Shamein Island. Yes, I know you're thinking that was our first mistake, but we are seven days into this adventure and we wanted something familiar. Well...you were right. We ordered a vegetable pizza because David told us that Isabel wanted to try pizza. Yes, we got vegetable pizza but it came with carrots, broccolli, potates, egg plant and a few other veggies that we weren't even sure what they were. As you can tell David is only with us a portion of the day.

Yesterday was a big day even after the adoption. We went swimming. We finally coaxed Isabel into and bathsuit and then in to the pool. This was a big accomplishment. Never before in a bathing suit nor the pool.

We are learning so much about Isabel.
-She knows more English than we give her credit for.
-She loves fruits and veggies. Really is a not big on meat.
-She's a neat freak, aways tidying things up. Hope this quality sticks.
-She loves to watch TV, what appears to be Chinese soap operas. David assures us that it is ok. Luckily no inappropriate shows on Chinese TV.
-She loves music and apparently, "China Idol". (Yes, Marsha, Lynn, and Judy I realize I should take Isabel to the concert, but we aren't coming home until August 1st.)
-She is painfully shy.
-If she is saying "no" to us, she waves her little index finger back and forth. Will and I jokingly refer to this as getting the finger.

Thanks Deanna for posting our daily journal from the blackberry. We tryed to use the computers at the hotel yesterday only to find that the world wide web is not so world wide. Thank goodness for this blackberry.

She was worth the wait.
Hugs and kisses to all,
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Offically Ours

Today we offically adopted Isabel. Just had to fill out paperwork, have pictures made and have a short interview. Isabel was asked several questions and she did fine. We got tickled, she had to write something, we don't know what they asked her, all was in Chinese, but she answered by asking if she needed to write it in English. (Don't get excited, she doesn't know that much English, but we do think she knows more than what she is saying). We have discovered that Isabel will always win the quiet mouse game.

We just got back from picking up the laundry and having lunch. Everything is an adventure. Lunch was a first. I've never seen Will spit something out in a cloth napkin. Ordering a meal is an adventure in itself. Will ordered something he thought would be relatively safe, chicken and rice. Not exactly what he expected. He was doing pretty well with his chopsticks until one flew out of his hand and into the air. I'm having issues of my own. Isabel and I went to the restroom last night and Isabel had to point out where the restroom was and demonstrate how to use that hole in the ground. I changed my mind and just waited. We are now in the room and Will thought he was getting a Sprite out of the mini bar only to find the he opened a Chinese brand beer. Labels are deceiving around here. The laundry service is great. We could get used to this. Even our undies are pressed. But if you could see the store itself you would think the clothes would get more dirty just by being there.

David our guide took us to the grocery store today. Picked up water and snacks. What an adventure. I wanted to take pictures but we couldn't. David had to tell us everything. So many foods we had no idea what they were. We are slowing figuring out that we have a very shy daughter. I would be shy if I were with us too. Keep us in your prayers. She was worth the wait.

Much love,
Will, Marla, and Isabel

A New Hand to Hold

We just returned to the hotel about an hour ago from meeting our daughter. Today when we met Isabel it wasn't anything like we expected. It was so much better. Prayers answered! We arrived at the Civil Affairs Office at around 2:00. Isabel arrived around 2:30. The two ladies that brought her to us couldn't have been nicer. They spent lots of time with us and answered all our questions. Isabel has been very quiet, but will answer our questions in softest of voices. She came with a backpack with two outfits and a few things.

She did come with a note:
To my parents: I am so grateful for your love. And I am very very happy to be your daughter. I'll try my best to adapt my new life with you.

Love you, Your new daughter

Again answered prayers. She even came with snacks. Isabel just pulled out a bag of boiled eggs and handed us both one. When all else fails keep an egg in your bag, in case you get hungry. She'll fit in just fine.

She was worth the wait!

Much love,
Will, Marla, and Isabel

Hotel Sweet Hotel

We are finally in Guangzhou. Arrived Sunday afternoon around 3:00 p.m. local time. David our guide in Guangzhou met us at the airport. (Yes, once again had no trouble picking us out, go figure) Very nice young man. He has been very helpful, and his English is quite good. He lives in Guangzhou and is our interpreter for the next week until Susan and the others in our travel group arrive in Guangzhou on the 25th. The other six couples are all together with Susan meeting there daughters in another province in China. Everyone in the group seems so nice and we hate that we are not with them. We are staying at the White Swan Hotel. The hotel is gourgous and the room is very nice. (Daddy-bonsai trees everywhere, you would love it) As for the bed however...the floor maybe a little softer, firm mattress is an understatement. Even with that said we took a five hour nap this afternoon. At eleven p.m. we had dinner. We didn't try anything unusual just a club sandwich. We'll be more adventurous when we are over jet lag. (Ankles are fine, no swelling as all)

Tomorrow is the big day! We meet Isabel tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. David will take us to the civil affairs office to meet. We will take a list of questions and he will translate. Keep praying. We are very nervous and apprehensive about tomorrow. We can only imagine how Isabel must feel. She is a very brave young lady.

Love to all! Love ya, need ya, miss ya!

Well... We Made It!

We are finally here. Last night we stopped in Toyko for two hours before heading on to Beijing. Susan our Chinese guide met us at the airport last night. We were so happy to see her. She recognized us right off. (Surprise, surprise) That seventeen hour plane flight took a lot out of us, but we rested at the beautiful Renaissance Beijing Hotel. This morning we are once again at the airport waiting on our flight to Guangzhou. Short flight, only three hours. Please keep us in your prayers, we are tired and we really haven't even started yet. Love ya, need ya, miss ya! Will and Marla

Day Two of Will and Marla's Big Adventure

Made it to Seattle at 2:00 A.M. EST. Our options out of Memphis were Amsterdam or Seattle. We argued geography a bit and checked the globe and decided Seattle was at least the right direction. Flew by snow capped Mt. Rainer. It was beautiful! The flight was fine. Sat with a nice dentist from Memphis. We made it to Seattle but to our surprise our bags were not on the carrousel. We went to the lost bag area and explained our day and the ladies gave us a t-shirt and not a lot of hope. Then after more checking and searching the remote corners of the airport our new BFF "Delta girl" returned with our luggage. Apparently our luggage passed us in Canada. Stayed at the Marriott and had a good nights sleep.
All in all it was a trip...and we had fun.

We are headed out today at 2:00 local time going to Beijing by way of Tokyo. We will arrive at 10:00 P.M. (10:00 A.M. EST)
Keep us in your prayers.
Love ya, need ya, miss ya!

Going Nowhere Fast

Houston we've had a problem. Bad weather in Memphis delayed our flight from Chattanooga and we are now sitting in the Memphis airport. We've had a day. After a two hour forty-five minute wait we finally got the okay to leave Chattanooga. Then an error in baggage and passenger weight caused the pilot to get mad, scream at the baggage handlers and stomp off the plane. After composing himself and chewing out a poor young man we were off.... only to find out twenty minutes later that we didn't have enough gas to make it to Memphis. So we swung down to Mississippi and gassed up. An hour later we were off. Yes we missed all our connecting flights for the trip. After quite a long process and even some begging we are booked to Seattle tonight and will spend the night there and leave for Tokyo tomorrow afternoon. We still have a long way to go!

Almost Time

Well it's finally here. The day that we have dreamed about forever it seems. We are packed and ready to go. Now if we don't have it, we won't take it...if we didn't finish it, it just won't get finished...if it's not clean, it really doesn't matter. All that matters is that in just a few hours we will be leaving to pick up Isabel.
We appreciate all that family and friends have done to help us prepare for Isabel's arrival. It has been such a whirlwind these last two weeks, but we have enjoyed every minute of it. We are truly blessed to have such wonderful support.

Please keep us in your prayers.
Off we go!!!

Our journey to Isabel has been long. In December of 2005 we made the decision to adopt a daughter from China. At the beginning of this process we thought that it would take about a year and a half from start to finish. That was not the case. The paperwork soon followed and we were logged in on LID October 12, 2006. We waited month after month only to find that the wait time was going to be much longer than we had anticipated. Finally in May of 2009 we were placed with our daughter Hui Ping our little Isabel.
After such a long wait the time has finally come for us to meet our little girl and bring her home. We will leave for Beijing China on July 16, 2009 and return seventeen days later on August 1, 2009. We have created this blog to document our trip as well as a way for family and friends to follow our journey.