Busy but not blogging...

buttoning things up and getting organized...Well, I am very aware that I have been a Bad Blogger, neglecting to post anything whatsoever!  I have been blaming it on my broken iPhoto software because I wanted to post some photos but cannot use my photo software.  Anyway....

joy or JOH
Many of the Journey of Hope families have returned, are boarding planes, or getting ready for travel to Shanghai.  It has been a great experience being able to follow along and watch these kids come home and begin their life with their new families.  It really made our day to hear that one of the kids who came home last weekend, named Liam - extremely adorable little boy, and lives in our local area had the following to report:

• Lili is his friend.  He was happy to hear she's coming to America.
• He doesn't think Lili knows where she is going but she knows she will have a family.
• She went to the same school as Liam. 
• She is nice to everyone.

Well, we think she is very sweet too Liam and we can't wait to get her home where she can see you again!!  Gerry has 55 follow-up questions for Liam that I have not forwarded to his mom :)


bedroom

We have a bed!!  I finally purchased a bed, though I nearly left IKEA empty-handed :(  What a relief!  Now to get the husband to dismantle the current bed (this bed was too rickety for Aoli, according to Gerry, but is a beloved piece that belonged to my father and I was hoping to use it), which he promises to do on Saturday.  I have now selected bedding (at least twice, not actually purchased though my cart is loaded up).  

listing it out

My 'to do' list has been extensively updated.  Tomorrow I plan to go to Target and purchase learning toys and work on my (non-prescription) medications list.  It's a long list (recommended by parents who have already travelled).  Hope to not need much of it...  

language 

Yeah!  I have scoured the North Shore of Boston for a Mandarin speaking instructor who can help Aoli with her English (not so easy around here).  I finally found someone through the Peabody Essex Art Museum, searching around their site hoping to find some Chinese/Mandarin related activities (it is an Asian art museum).   She also teaches Mandarin and can help her maintain her native language while she learns English.  This is very important and I hope that we can try to make this happen.  Usually children go through a period where they forget their original language and cannot really think or communicate in the new one and it can be a frightening experience.  Gerry and I will meet with her next week to get planning and to do some pre-travel prep. as well!  

more nesting?

Not at all required for this adoption but completely cathartic...I reorganized all of my kitchen cabinets, moving all smaller items into nice tidy bins, bulk items to pantry, etc.  Provided strong, if temporary, feeling of control and order.  Very gratifying, wish I could post a photo of my handy-work :)