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
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
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
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
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
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
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
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
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."
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
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
Friday, August 7, 2009
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
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
Thursday, August 6, 2009
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
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
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
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
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
Monday, August 3, 2009
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
Sunday, August 2, 2009
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
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