The Decision

The fostering process happened rather quickly for us once we met with a couple different medical foundations. It was clear that the need was there, and we were ready; but the questions became real. We were "choosing" a child. And against all that I am, and all that I believed in, I found myself really, truly "choosing" one child over another. Whether based on the sweet smiling (or screaming) faces peering back at me, the medical condition in which they've been diagnosed with, the rehabilitation phases that were to come, the orphanage or province in which they came from, or the behavior and interaction between our kids... I began analyzing so many factors that played a role in the selection of a child.

Living our Passion

One thing holds true here in China... life is a journey that is unpredictable and often unplanned. Our journey changes frequently, and we've learned to become very adaptable to each day being different from the days past.

And, so we started another new journey recently. A journey that was pretty much a fairy tale just two years ago. At that time, I had recently quit my job, we were planning to move to China, and I knew that I'd need to find something to continue embarking on my non-profit, charity heart. I dreamt that we'd settle in Shanghai, and I'd devote my time to orphaned children waiting for an ounce of attention, love, and touch.

Eight Years of Sweetness

Somewhere along the lines, this little princess of ours turned into a young lady who is fun to hang with, full of smiles and giggles, and lots of silliness. She has a compassionate heart and a caring spirit, and she loves to help with anything she can. Did I mention her responsibility and maturity? She is growing too fast, even getting contacts on our last trip home. So proud of her!!

Holiday Hustle

We're half way done with this adventure of living across the world, and one thing remains true... I love going home! The holidays were extra special this year partly because we hadn't really intended on going back to America. Initially our hearts and sights were set on traveling and utilizing the nearly three week break to see the world.

But then the reality sunk in: A) we can't honestly afford to travel for three weeks, and B) how do you celebrate Christmas without your family, and snow, the fresh pine smell of a real Christmas tree, or a well-written homily by a Father who pours his heart and soul into priesthood, and C) were we truly ready to wait 10 months before seeing our nieces, siblings and parents? No way!