"Dear friends,
I know you have been waiting eagerly for more news of how the children arefaring during the aftermath of the disastrous earthquake in Sichuan.
When something terrible like this happens, confusion is everywhere andrumors spread. All of us are so worried about the children. We are tryingto be scrupulously careful to pass along only information that we've beenable to verify.
We have now set up a procedure whereby we can get an update from theMinistry of Civil affairs each day. They are supervising all relief effortsso have the most complete and accurate information available. We also nowhave contact information for all affected welfare institutions and havebegun the process of reaching out to them directly to see if they need help.
I will write daily with any new information that has been given to us.Again, please do not contact us to inquire about individual institutions. Wewill give you all of the information we have. If you do not hear from usabout a particular place, it likely is not affected. At any rate, we don'thave any information beyond what I am passing along to you.
As of now, Wednesday afternoon in China, there are 12,012 people dead and7,841 missing in Sichuan alone, and the numbers continue to rise. 26,206people are living in temporary shelters. Only 30 children of 900 have beenrescued from the collapsed high school in Dujiangyan, Sichuan. At least 20children were buried in the collapse of a primary school in Liangping,Chongqing.
What follows are the welfare institutions closest to the epicenter:Mianyang, Zitong County, Dujiangyan, Deyang and Guanguan.
The following is a preliminary, and not necessarily complete, list ofinstitutions which are also potentially affected: Wenjiang County, Neijiang,Rongxian, Zigong, Ganzizhou, Panzhihua, Luzhou, Santai County, Leshan,Suining, Nanchong, Guang'an.
We will have a full list later today or early tomorrow. While we've heardrumors about some of the above, we won't pass on that information untilwe've made direct contact and verified. I want to stress that we've heardno reports of children in the welfare institutions being injured, only thatsome have been relocated for their safety.
An update on the Chengdu CWI: There has been some foundation damage to therehab building and some cracked walls in other buildings, which are beingcarefully inspected. The children's building is in the best shape and allchildren have been moved to the first floor but spend most of the day outside, weather permitting - or in the institution buses if there is rain. All institution staff and HTS staff are working around the clock to care forthe children and keep them safe.
In cooperation with China's Ministry of Civil Affairs, Half the Sky has setup the Children's Earthquake Fund. The Fund will provide direct aid to thethousands of children who are suffering in the wake of the earthquake andaftershocks. Donations will be used to provide emergency and long-termrelief to children affected by the disaster, including emergency shelter,food, and medical care for children orphaned or separated from theirfamilies, as well as temporary or long-term foster care or, if necessary,temporary institutional care. The ministry has guaranteed that the fundswill be used only to help the children.
You can donate to the fund by calling Half the Sky (+1 510 525 3377) or atone of two dedicated sites online:Global Giving:
http://www.globalgiving.com/pr/2100/proj2086a.html
orHalf the Sky website:
http://give.halfthesky.org/prostores/servlet/Categories?category=Children'
s+Earthquake+FundIf you would like a Canadian tax receipt, please donate at
http://www.canadahelps.org/CharityProfilePage.aspx?CharityID=s86248
If you would like a Hong Kong tax receipt, please call us at +852 25205266 or online athttps://www.paydollar.com/b2c2/eng/charity/payInfo.jsp?charityId=4947
We are juggling a lot these days - doing everything we can to help out hereas well as keeping our existing programs operating, AND opening modelcenters in 5 new provinces this year to bring everyday care to so manychildren still waiting for us to reach them. But somehow we must find a wayto do it all.This is just a devastating, heartbreaking situation. We are so moved byyour desire to help. We feel fortunate to be a conduit for so much lovingconcern.
Thank you all!with love,JennyJenny BowenExecutive DirectorHalf the Sky Foundationwww.halfthesky.org <http://www.halfthesky.org/>
Half the Sky was created in order to enrich the lives and enhance theprospects for orphaned children in China. We establish and operate infantnurture and preschool programs, provide personalized learning for olderchildren and establish loving permanent foster care and guidance forchildren with disabilities. It is our goal to ensure that every orphanedchild has a caring adult in her life and a chance at a bright future.Since 1998. Ten years.thousands of hugs.."
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Items Needed for Sophie's Orphanage
People are asking us how can they help us or others affected by the earthquakes in China.
Half the Sky’s Children’s Earthquake Fund Click on this link to donate and help Half the Sky's Children's Earthquake Fund.
Another idea we have is to bring money with us so while in China we can purchase things that Sophie's Chengdu Orphanage Needs. (We have limited space in our luggage.) A couple of weeks ago we asked our Adoption Agency to let us know what they needed now. This of course may change due to the Earthquake and has changed since their winter needs although you see some things stay the same like the need for diapers :O)
Our plan is to go to Walmart and purchase what they need, rent a van and then deliver it to the Chengdu Orphanage. Our goal is to purchase a dryer, fans or air conditioning unit. Below is the email that we received from our Case Worker. So if you would like to make a donation for our Chengdu Orphanage Fund just let us know, you know how to get a hold of us.
"Hi Michelle, Items that the orphanage may need are driers for children’s diapers and clothing in the winter, air conditioners or fans for the baby’s room, floor mats for play rooms, bottles, cloth or disposable diapers, etc. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Linda"
Half the Sky’s Children’s Earthquake Fund Click on this link to donate and help Half the Sky's Children's Earthquake Fund.
Another idea we have is to bring money with us so while in China we can purchase things that Sophie's Chengdu Orphanage Needs. (We have limited space in our luggage.) A couple of weeks ago we asked our Adoption Agency to let us know what they needed now. This of course may change due to the Earthquake and has changed since their winter needs although you see some things stay the same like the need for diapers :O)
Our plan is to go to Walmart and purchase what they need, rent a van and then deliver it to the Chengdu Orphanage. Our goal is to purchase a dryer, fans or air conditioning unit. Below is the email that we received from our Case Worker. So if you would like to make a donation for our Chengdu Orphanage Fund just let us know, you know how to get a hold of us.
"Hi Michelle, Items that the orphanage may need are driers for children’s diapers and clothing in the winter, air conditioners or fans for the baby’s room, floor mats for play rooms, bottles, cloth or disposable diapers, etc. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Linda"
Panda Preserve
Thanks to Shana I found this information about the Panda Reserve on her blog. Thanks for always sharing good information!
By CHRISTOPHER BODEEN, Associated Press Writer Tue May 13, 4:22 PM ET
CHENGDU, China - All the pandas at the world's most famous panda preserve were reported safe late Tuesday, more than a day after China's worst earthquake in three decades closed off the remote, mountainous area.
The Wolong National Nature Reserve and panda breeding center is the only place in the world where the rare animals can be seen in such large numbers. But Chinese officials and zoo officials overseas had worried about the fate of the center's 86 pandas since Monday's devastating earthquake rattled nearby areas in central Sichuan province.
Late Tuesday, officials at Wolong used a satellite phone to contact the State Forestry Administration and report that the pandas were safe, the official Xinhua News Agency said. It said all panda cubs had been taken to safety.
Thirty-one British tourists panda-watching in Wolong and initially reported missing were safe and in the provincial capital of Chengdu Tuesday night, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
No mention was made of a group of 12 Americans in the area on a tour sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund. Kerry Zobor, U.S.-based spokeswoman for the WWF, said they have not been able to contact the WWF members.
Pandas are a national symbol for China. They are loaned to other countries as friendship offerings in what has become known as "panda politics." They are so rare and so slow to breed that any large-scale loss could have been critical to the population.
More than 60 pandas at another breeding center in Chengdu are safe, and the center reopened to tourists Tuesday morning, Xinhua said. Another eight pandas at a preserve in Ya'an, about an hour's drive west of Chengdu, were reported safe as well.
But the Wolong center is deep in the hills north of Chengdu along a winding, two-lane road that reports say was wiped out in places by the quake. Earlier phone and e-mail contact had failed.
Pandas are among the world's rarest animals. Both the Wolong and Chengdu centers are part of efforts to breed giant pandas in hopes of increasing the species' chances of survival. About 1,600 pandas live in the wild in China's mountainous west and another 180 live in captivity.
The Wolong center offers visitors the rare chance to play with young pandas, while wearing sterile gloves, booties and gowns for the pandas' safety.
It is also difficult to reach, even in the best of times. Rescue workers only reached nearby areas by foot Tuesday, a day after the quake struck.
"We are terribly concerned and we are hoping the report is true," said Suzanne Braden, director of U.S.-based Pandas International, which supports Wolong with medical equipment and supplies. "I am waiting for confirmation that someone has actually made it to Wolong."
Braden said she feared that medical supplies and other equipment needed for newborn cubs were lost in the quake and that enclosures in the reserve might have been damaged. "We certainly don't want captive pandas to get out into the wild," she said
By CHRISTOPHER BODEEN, Associated Press Writer Tue May 13, 4:22 PM ET
CHENGDU, China - All the pandas at the world's most famous panda preserve were reported safe late Tuesday, more than a day after China's worst earthquake in three decades closed off the remote, mountainous area.
The Wolong National Nature Reserve and panda breeding center is the only place in the world where the rare animals can be seen in such large numbers. But Chinese officials and zoo officials overseas had worried about the fate of the center's 86 pandas since Monday's devastating earthquake rattled nearby areas in central Sichuan province.
Late Tuesday, officials at Wolong used a satellite phone to contact the State Forestry Administration and report that the pandas were safe, the official Xinhua News Agency said. It said all panda cubs had been taken to safety.
Thirty-one British tourists panda-watching in Wolong and initially reported missing were safe and in the provincial capital of Chengdu Tuesday night, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
No mention was made of a group of 12 Americans in the area on a tour sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund. Kerry Zobor, U.S.-based spokeswoman for the WWF, said they have not been able to contact the WWF members.
Pandas are a national symbol for China. They are loaned to other countries as friendship offerings in what has become known as "panda politics." They are so rare and so slow to breed that any large-scale loss could have been critical to the population.
More than 60 pandas at another breeding center in Chengdu are safe, and the center reopened to tourists Tuesday morning, Xinhua said. Another eight pandas at a preserve in Ya'an, about an hour's drive west of Chengdu, were reported safe as well.
But the Wolong center is deep in the hills north of Chengdu along a winding, two-lane road that reports say was wiped out in places by the quake. Earlier phone and e-mail contact had failed.
Pandas are among the world's rarest animals. Both the Wolong and Chengdu centers are part of efforts to breed giant pandas in hopes of increasing the species' chances of survival. About 1,600 pandas live in the wild in China's mountainous west and another 180 live in captivity.
The Wolong center offers visitors the rare chance to play with young pandas, while wearing sterile gloves, booties and gowns for the pandas' safety.
It is also difficult to reach, even in the best of times. Rescue workers only reached nearby areas by foot Tuesday, a day after the quake struck.
"We are terribly concerned and we are hoping the report is true," said Suzanne Braden, director of U.S.-based Pandas International, which supports Wolong with medical equipment and supplies. "I am waiting for confirmation that someone has actually made it to Wolong."
Braden said she feared that medical supplies and other equipment needed for newborn cubs were lost in the quake and that enclosures in the reserve might have been damaged. "We certainly don't want captive pandas to get out into the wild," she said
Update About Earthquake from Our Adoption Agency
"Hi Rickey and Michele,
Bixin Huang called the Chengdu City Children’s Welfare Institute last night and was told that none of their children were injured from the earthquake. The children have been moved to a safe place and he said we don’t need to worry about their well-being. I hope this information brings some level of relief for your family.
Sincerely, Linda"
Above is the email that I received just a few minutes ago from our Case Worker at our Adoption Agency. I know we already knew this but it is nice to have two pieces of information that match.
Bixin Huang called the Chengdu City Children’s Welfare Institute last night and was told that none of their children were injured from the earthquake. The children have been moved to a safe place and he said we don’t need to worry about their well-being. I hope this information brings some level of relief for your family.
Sincerely, Linda"
Above is the email that I received just a few minutes ago from our Case Worker at our Adoption Agency. I know we already knew this but it is nice to have two pieces of information that match.
Strong Aftershock Rocks Chengdu
This is an email that I received from renaeanne2000 who is from my Chengdu Adoption yahoo group. I this person was so nice to pass this information along to all of us and I like it because it is short and to the point.
"Strong aftershock rocks Chengdu
From www.Chinadaily.comStrong aftershock rocks Chengdu(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-13 15:39
CHENGDU - A strong aftershock measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale rocked Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, around 3:10 pm Tuesday.
The epicenter of Tuesday's quake was again in Wenchuan County, said Yin Zhaomin, an official with the China Seismological Bureau.
This was the strongest aftershock after the devastating quake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, hit Wenchuan County, 159 km northwest of Chengdu on Monday afternoon.
Office workers in downtown Chengdu took to the streets again after the quake. Many said they felt clearly the buildings were rocking and bottles toppled.
Experts with the China Earthquake Networks Center said strong aftershocks may still rock Wenchuan, though quakes exceeding 7.8 on the Richter scale are unlikely.
The region, which experts said is historically prone to earthquakes, has suffered more than 1,950 aftershocks in the past 25 hours, including three over 6 on the Richter scale and 14 between 5 and 6."
"Strong aftershock rocks Chengdu
From www.Chinadaily.comStrong aftershock rocks Chengdu(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-13 15:39
CHENGDU - A strong aftershock measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale rocked Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, around 3:10 pm Tuesday.
The epicenter of Tuesday's quake was again in Wenchuan County, said Yin Zhaomin, an official with the China Seismological Bureau.
This was the strongest aftershock after the devastating quake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, hit Wenchuan County, 159 km northwest of Chengdu on Monday afternoon.
Office workers in downtown Chengdu took to the streets again after the quake. Many said they felt clearly the buildings were rocking and bottles toppled.
Experts with the China Earthquake Networks Center said strong aftershocks may still rock Wenchuan, though quakes exceeding 7.8 on the Richter scale are unlikely.
The region, which experts said is historically prone to earthquakes, has suffered more than 1,950 aftershocks in the past 25 hours, including three over 6 on the Richter scale and 14 between 5 and 6."
After Shock and Another Letter from Half the Sky
"Hello again,
During the past several hours Half the Sky has been working hard to get more information about the children impacted by the Sichuan and Chongqing earthquake. We know that it is not only children in welfare institutions who are in trouble. We know that hundreds of children have been separated from their families, have lost their parents, are hurt, traumatized and in pain. We know we must help; we have been working to figure how best to do so.
We have just a little bit of news. There have been hundreds of aftershocks, one reported to be as strong as 6.0. Children have again been evacuated from the Chengdu institution. Relief workers have arrived in the epicenter, Wenchuan. The Ministry of Civil Affairs (this is the ministry that HTS works with and also the agency responsible for disaster relief) has been unable to reach orphanages in the most affected areas: Mianyang, Zitong, Deyang and Aba. There are other welfare institutions in the affected areas but no others that house children. Each of the four institutions above houses about 100 children. We believe they will need help. We will continue to watch and wait.
Many of you have asked us to set up an emergency relief fund, like we did during the winter storms. Given the nature of this disaster and the fact that help for children may well be needed outside welfare institutions (where we have a direct line) we have waited to set up such a fund until we had absolute assurance that we could put a system in place to deliver the aid where it is most desperately needed.
Half the Sky takes the designation of a donor-restricted gift seriously - that's our promise to you. We understand that when you make an emergency donation, you put your trust in us. We have spoken very carefully about this with our colleagues at the Ministry of Civil Affairs. We now have their promise as well.
In cooperation with the ministry, we have now set up the Half the Sky Children's Earthquake Fund. Your donations to the fund will be used to provide emergency and long-term relief to children affected by the disaster. Relief will include emergency shelter, food, and medical care for children orphaned or separated from their families. It will include temporary or long-term foster care or, when necessary, temporary institutional care.
We have a commitment from the ministry that we will receive regular updates on the use of funds and, most important, the well-being of the children.
Within a few hours we will have available a dedicated donation site. In the meantime, if you wish to make a gift to aid children in Sichuan and Chongqing affected by the quake, you may donate through our website, www.halfthesky.org. Please note that your gift is for earthquake relief.
I will give you more information as I receive it. Please don't write to ask about the situation in specific locations. I will tell you everything I know. Thank you for caring so much about the children. with love, Jenny Jenny Bowen Executive Director Half the Sky Foundation" www.halfthesky.org "
I know these things are in the hands of God but I am not getting excited to check my email in the morning, afraid of what I might find. On the other hand I am so impressed with Half the Sky!!! This is our second email from them and I know others are getting them too because another one was posted on my Chengdu Yahoo Group.
During the past several hours Half the Sky has been working hard to get more information about the children impacted by the Sichuan and Chongqing earthquake. We know that it is not only children in welfare institutions who are in trouble. We know that hundreds of children have been separated from their families, have lost their parents, are hurt, traumatized and in pain. We know we must help; we have been working to figure how best to do so.
We have just a little bit of news. There have been hundreds of aftershocks, one reported to be as strong as 6.0. Children have again been evacuated from the Chengdu institution. Relief workers have arrived in the epicenter, Wenchuan. The Ministry of Civil Affairs (this is the ministry that HTS works with and also the agency responsible for disaster relief) has been unable to reach orphanages in the most affected areas: Mianyang, Zitong, Deyang and Aba. There are other welfare institutions in the affected areas but no others that house children. Each of the four institutions above houses about 100 children. We believe they will need help. We will continue to watch and wait.
Many of you have asked us to set up an emergency relief fund, like we did during the winter storms. Given the nature of this disaster and the fact that help for children may well be needed outside welfare institutions (where we have a direct line) we have waited to set up such a fund until we had absolute assurance that we could put a system in place to deliver the aid where it is most desperately needed.
Half the Sky takes the designation of a donor-restricted gift seriously - that's our promise to you. We understand that when you make an emergency donation, you put your trust in us. We have spoken very carefully about this with our colleagues at the Ministry of Civil Affairs. We now have their promise as well.
In cooperation with the ministry, we have now set up the Half the Sky Children's Earthquake Fund. Your donations to the fund will be used to provide emergency and long-term relief to children affected by the disaster. Relief will include emergency shelter, food, and medical care for children orphaned or separated from their families. It will include temporary or long-term foster care or, when necessary, temporary institutional care.
We have a commitment from the ministry that we will receive regular updates on the use of funds and, most important, the well-being of the children.
Within a few hours we will have available a dedicated donation site. In the meantime, if you wish to make a gift to aid children in Sichuan and Chongqing affected by the quake, you may donate through our website, www.halfthesky.org. Please note that your gift is for earthquake relief.
I will give you more information as I receive it. Please don't write to ask about the situation in specific locations. I will tell you everything I know. Thank you for caring so much about the children. with love, Jenny Jenny Bowen Executive Director Half the Sky Foundation" www.halfthesky.org "
I know these things are in the hands of God but I am not getting excited to check my email in the morning, afraid of what I might find. On the other hand I am so impressed with Half the Sky!!! This is our second email from them and I know others are getting them too because another one was posted on my Chengdu Yahoo Group.
This reminds me of when 9-11 happened. While getting ready for work in the morning I recieve a phone call from my Dad. He asks me if I know what is going on and I did not. He was like, don't go any where, stay in side. He called me just after the first plane went down. I remember how my heart just ached for the people that this happened too and at the same time wondering about my very own freedom! I will never forget that day when my Dad called me. I hope that never happens again. I know the earthquake is different but I get that same feeling in the morning of not knowing what is going on, things are out of my control.
Anyways, Do you know why I get these emails from Half the Sky? Remember when I enquired about Sophie in the Granny or Little Sister Program? Well they kept my email and information from that one little email. No words can express how well they run this organization. We forever will support them as they are helping take care of All Children in China and our Daughter in China!!
Then I read this email from Becca. It brought tears to my eyes. Yes, I have had a few of them over the two days. Trying to stay strong. Here is what Becca wrote: "Thank God Sophie is okay. This sweet little angel has made it through a lot to come home to her family. There are angels watching over her, for sure. Maybe Grandma Smith angels...;) Love you guys."
I just pray for everyone in China that has been affected by this, everyone who is missing loved ones, for people that are hurt/have been hurt or can not find their family/friends and our little girl. We pray that everyone is safe. Thank you everyone for your prayers, Love Michele, Rick and Simone
Monday, May 12, 2008
Simone Talking To Jeni
"Thanks for the updated... I think Nix and I sat there for a little bit trying to see where it hit.. I finally looked at Nix and said Sophie is fine.. She has to be safe. The Houstons are the best people and God will hold Sophies hand till they get there.. She is fine, we are too close to the end.. I replayed my "one of many conversations" with Simone last night, Simone telling me that Sophie would be coming home in a few days, Long days Jeni.. She has a broken leg and needs a shot. Simone knows her sister is fine... Love You Guys.....--jen"
Above is the email that we received from Jeni. It cracks me up and brings a smile to my face.....TO give you a little back ground Simone had her four year old shots on Friday. Lets just say it was a pretty dramatic time. It melted our hearts when we heard "that Scream!" My Mom could even hear her in the waiting room.
We have also been talking with Simone about the fact that Sophie's feet do not work as fast as hers, she walks slowly and with a limp. We have also been talking a lot about how everyone needs to have shots and it does hurt....So I think that is why Simone told Jeni that she "has a broken leg and needs a shot."
Below are some more emails that we have received:
"Michele and Rick,I'm so happy to hear that Sophie's Orphanage is o.k. I can't imagine how difficult it must have been when you heard about the earthquake.Hope you have Sophie home soon! We cannot wait to meet her.Tracy W."
"Whew…. I am so glad, been thinking about Sophie all day!" (Erica)
"Phew! That is wonderful news!" (Katie)
"Michele~ Thanks for the update. You have been on my mind all day. I’m glad to hear that Sophie and the other children are okay. I pray for China right now as they recover from such a big tragedy. Your family is in my prayers as well as you prepare to travel to China and bring your daughter home. Let me know if there is anything I can do in the coming weeks. Love,
The Kirbys"
"Yea! Such good news! :) Of course our hearts still go out to others who are not as fortunate, but thank goodness for Sophie and the rest of her friends in China. I'm sure it was all very confusing and scary for the little ones, but soon she'll be in your loving arms! Hugs 'n Love, Marci"
"Michele, Our prayers are being answered! Know we love you and pray for you and your family every day! We will do anything for you! Love, Janet"
"Thank you. 18000 presumed dead, my word." (John)
"wheew xo" (Melissa)
"Great News! It is a Happy Birthday indeed!" (Cami)
"So glad to hear!! What a blessing that Sophie is connected with Half the Sky...now more than ever. What a relief to know she is safe. Nadine"
"I am so happy to hear that Sophie o.k.! You should betraveling soon! congratulations! We have been thinking about all of our "Ling" girls,three years ago this week since we got Lily! It hasbeen an amazing 3 years hasn't it? Laurette and Ken"
Above is the email that we received from Jeni. It cracks me up and brings a smile to my face.....TO give you a little back ground Simone had her four year old shots on Friday. Lets just say it was a pretty dramatic time. It melted our hearts when we heard "that Scream!" My Mom could even hear her in the waiting room.
We have also been talking with Simone about the fact that Sophie's feet do not work as fast as hers, she walks slowly and with a limp. We have also been talking a lot about how everyone needs to have shots and it does hurt....So I think that is why Simone told Jeni that she "has a broken leg and needs a shot."
Below are some more emails that we have received:
"Michele and Rick,I'm so happy to hear that Sophie's Orphanage is o.k. I can't imagine how difficult it must have been when you heard about the earthquake.Hope you have Sophie home soon! We cannot wait to meet her.Tracy W."
"Whew…. I am so glad, been thinking about Sophie all day!" (Erica)
"Phew! That is wonderful news!" (Katie)
"Michele~ Thanks for the update. You have been on my mind all day. I’m glad to hear that Sophie and the other children are okay. I pray for China right now as they recover from such a big tragedy. Your family is in my prayers as well as you prepare to travel to China and bring your daughter home. Let me know if there is anything I can do in the coming weeks. Love,
The Kirbys"
"Yea! Such good news! :) Of course our hearts still go out to others who are not as fortunate, but thank goodness for Sophie and the rest of her friends in China. I'm sure it was all very confusing and scary for the little ones, but soon she'll be in your loving arms! Hugs 'n Love, Marci"
"Michele, Our prayers are being answered! Know we love you and pray for you and your family every day! We will do anything for you! Love, Janet"
"Thank you. 18000 presumed dead, my word." (John)
"wheew xo" (Melissa)
"Great News! It is a Happy Birthday indeed!" (Cami)
"So glad to hear!! What a blessing that Sophie is connected with Half the Sky...now more than ever. What a relief to know she is safe. Nadine"
"I am so happy to hear that Sophie o.k.! You should betraveling soon! congratulations! We have been thinking about all of our "Ling" girls,three years ago this week since we got Lily! It hasbeen an amazing 3 years hasn't it? Laurette and Ken"
"We've been thinking about Sophie all day... Michele, please let us know if you hear anything. I'm going to go check your blog and keep checking it for details. We are praying that her orphanage is okay. I have been reading all the news articles I can find. You guys are in our thoughts and prayers! Jess & David & kids...."
"It sounds like all is OK, but will keep all of you in our prayers. Thanks for keeping us informed. Tom"
"Thanks for keeping us updated Michele! Your family and Sophie are in our hearts and prayers. What an awful catastrophe for so many, we are so relieved to hear Sophie is ok. Love, Jenn (W)"
"Thanks for sharing with me! You and ALL yours will be in my thoughts and prayers!!!!! Love, Jess (O)"
"Oh wow Michele, I had no idea (I don't watch the news & have been with a friend from Montana & not at work)! I am happy to hear Sophie is safe! Thinking of you! XOXO, Jen"
"Gracias a Dios!! She is okay. Thank you so much for the update.
Maria"
Earthquake Information From Half the Sky
Below is an email I got this afternoon from Half the Sky:
"Dear Friends,
We have received many emails and calls about the terrible earthquake that struck Sichuan and Chongqing yesterday. We have reached the three orphanages where Half the Sky operates programs:
Chengdu, Chongqing and Yibin. All is well. At each place, the children were all evacuated until the tremors passed. The buildings suffered no great damage. And no child was injured.
We will reach out to other welfare institutions in the province today. Should we learn of any problems or earthquake-related needs, I’ll post another note.
Some of you have also written regarding the EV71 hand-foot-mouth virus that has affected many, particularly young children, in several provinces.The orphanages are taking special precautions and no child in an institution has been reported infected. We are monitoring this also.
While Half the Sky exists first and foremost to provide nurturing care and education to orphaned children, we are pleased to be in a position to be the eyes and ears on the ground in China for all of you who have such concern for all aspects of the children's welfare. We are so grateful to those of you who make our presence in China possible.
with love,Jenny
Jenny Bowen
Executive DirectorHalf the Sky Foundationwww.halfthesky.org
Half the Sky was created in order to enrich the lives and enhance the prospects for orphaned children in China. We establish and operate infant nurture and preschool programs, provide personalized learning for older children and establish loving permanent family care and guidance for children with disabilities. It is our goal to ensure that every orphaned child has a caring adult in her life and a chance at a bright future. "
Below are some more emails from family and friends that we got after we sent out an email with the above letter in it! I can not bring my self to delete them and I have to save them as these made such a big impact on our life today! This first one from Cyndy brought tears to my eyes! They are all treasured emails as we have a lot to be thankful for. We still do pray and think about all of the people in China that have been affected by this earthquake. We feel for them!!
"chelle: I am so very glad to hear all is okay with Sophie. I have had you in my thoughts & prays and will continue to do so. I love you guys so much!! You are so important in my childrens' lives, I feel as if you're my family too. Here is hoping your family can be united very soon. Cyndy"
"That is great news! When I read your earlier email, my heart went out to you. I am so happy to hear that Sophie all the children are safe. Love Ya, Bethanie"
"What a relief!!!" (Rachel)
"Michele, So glad to hear that things seem to be okay for Sophie! All the more reason to be thankful that you get to leave soon to go get her! Jessica C."
"THANK GOD! I am so relieved for you guys Michele!" (Kimi)
"Dear Friends,
We have received many emails and calls about the terrible earthquake that struck Sichuan and Chongqing yesterday. We have reached the three orphanages where Half the Sky operates programs:
Chengdu, Chongqing and Yibin. All is well. At each place, the children were all evacuated until the tremors passed. The buildings suffered no great damage. And no child was injured.
We will reach out to other welfare institutions in the province today. Should we learn of any problems or earthquake-related needs, I’ll post another note.
Some of you have also written regarding the EV71 hand-foot-mouth virus that has affected many, particularly young children, in several provinces.The orphanages are taking special precautions and no child in an institution has been reported infected. We are monitoring this also.
While Half the Sky exists first and foremost to provide nurturing care and education to orphaned children, we are pleased to be in a position to be the eyes and ears on the ground in China for all of you who have such concern for all aspects of the children's welfare. We are so grateful to those of you who make our presence in China possible.
with love,Jenny
Jenny Bowen
Executive DirectorHalf the Sky Foundationwww.halfthesky.org
Half the Sky was created in order to enrich the lives and enhance the prospects for orphaned children in China. We establish and operate infant nurture and preschool programs, provide personalized learning for older children and establish loving permanent family care and guidance for children with disabilities. It is our goal to ensure that every orphaned child has a caring adult in her life and a chance at a bright future. "
Below are some more emails from family and friends that we got after we sent out an email with the above letter in it! I can not bring my self to delete them and I have to save them as these made such a big impact on our life today! This first one from Cyndy brought tears to my eyes! They are all treasured emails as we have a lot to be thankful for. We still do pray and think about all of the people in China that have been affected by this earthquake. We feel for them!!
"chelle: I am so very glad to hear all is okay with Sophie. I have had you in my thoughts & prays and will continue to do so. I love you guys so much!! You are so important in my childrens' lives, I feel as if you're my family too. Here is hoping your family can be united very soon. Cyndy"
"That is great news! When I read your earlier email, my heart went out to you. I am so happy to hear that Sophie all the children are safe. Love Ya, Bethanie"
"What a relief!!!" (Rachel)
"Michele, So glad to hear that things seem to be okay for Sophie! All the more reason to be thankful that you get to leave soon to go get her! Jessica C."
"THANK GOD! I am so relieved for you guys Michele!" (Kimi)
"Thank you Jesus! Litterally, thank you Jesus!!!Roxanne"
"Good to hear, I have been thinking about you all day.....
~Amy"
"Thank God!!! We will continue to pray for your family and that you may be united shortly! Please keep me posted on when you will be leaving....it is pretty funny, you got Simone around the same time as I had Luke, and now little Sophie will be joining us as I am about to have my own little girl! Can't wait to meet her! Summer"
"Praise God, Michele, I have a friend who is adopting from China this month they are scheduled to go and get their son. I have no idea if the quake effected their orphange. I did pass on your blog to her, I hope you don't mind. I will get more details from where they are adopting. Pray for her as well, (P and E, J H 15 months old.) Em"
"Thank you so much for the update...so glad Sophie is ok. Denise"
Chengdu Earth Quake
This morning ask I checked my email before work this is what I see....Two emails from friends that have the words Sophie as the subject. I open this one from Denise first, then from Kimi. I knew nothing about the earthquakes...yet. I am saving both of these emails for Sophie. As I was reading them my heart just sank! Read below:
"I have been thinking of you and praying for Sophie and the other children. Do you know anything about the orphanage? Maybe your agency can find out something?
I know how you must be feeling...praying for you~
Denise"
"Have you heard anything from your agency regarding the earthquake in China? I am assuming you heard a 7.8 quake hit this morning 57 miles north of Chengdu. If not there is a link below... Chris and I are both watching for any information, but nothing so far regarding Chengdu specifically. I'm praying everything is fine. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7396400.stm
Kimi"
My tummy and heart just sank!! I just want to help but I can't! I keep thinking about our little Sophie and everyone else in Chengdu and surrounding areas...Praying for them. I call Rick at work. He gets up very early and heard about it on the news. I emailed our case worker to see what she can find out. Thanks Denise for the idea.
Then just as I leave we get another email from Nadine:
"I just saw this when I turned on the computer this morning...have you heard?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24573168/?GT1=43001
We are thinking of Sophie and hoping all is well!!
Nadine"
Thanks everyone for thinking of us, Sophie and everyone else in the Chengdu Area that have been affected by this!
Below are some more links about it:
Here is another link to a person who is in China right now and blogged about the Earth Quake (not sure where I found this one??):
http://www.npr.org/blogs/chengdu/
Thanks to Matha from my Chengdu Adoption Yahoo Group I found this link to a blog. Check it out.
http://willgoestochina.blogspot.com/2008/05/earthquake.html
Here are some more comments from friends and family. I hope I got them all here. Some of you may wonder why I save these?? A few reasons. One is because I want Sophie to know that we choose her and we are praying for her every day. We also want her to know that so many of our friends and family are thinking of her too. We always want her to know how much she is loves. We are also using this blog as a scrapbook. So below are some of the comments we have recieved after sending out a email to friends and family:
"Michele,
I saw this this morning...and immediately thought of calling you.
Let us know if you hear anything...
David"
"Oh, Michele! I thought of your family this morning. Sophie will be in my prayers. Please keep us posted!" (Andrea M.)
"Michele -We are so sorry to hear about the earthquake. Pleasekeep us updated! Rachel"
"Michele,
Know that we are praying for Sophie and also for the Houston family! We love you! Janet and Shelby"
Mary M. (some how deleted her first email.)
"Thank you! (It is Cami's Birthday Today.) Let us know about Sophie as soon as you know. I have said a little prayer. Thinking of you!" (Cami)
"Hey there, Our charter e-mail account isn't working. Only the hotmail one. Marci wrote me and asked me to forward on the below e-mail to you because hers isn't working either.
OMG!! I didn't know till she just wrote. PLEASE keep us updated if you hear anything. You all are in our prayers!!! Love you, Windy, Mike and Collin"
"Oh Michele, how scary! We're praying for little Sophie and the others. I read the article you linked to and at least it said at the bottom of the article that there weren't any collapses in Chengdu...I hope that comforts you a little until you hear she's safe. Just keep telling yourself - Sophie is meant to be with you, she'll be home with you soon! We'll be thinking of you and your family. All our love, Dan and Marci"
(Carrie Duffey and Family....By mistake deleted theirs while I was doing this....So I don't have there email on here but they are thinking of Sophie too.)
"I just saw this news article right before I got your email and wondered if Sophie was in this part of China. I'm praying she is safe..I'm sure you must be going crazy so I am praying for you too. Love you, Karen"
"Oh Michele,I pray that everything is okay for her. It sounds like Chengdu may have made it through without too many problems??? Let's get her home!!!" (Auntie Becca)
"Michele, You know that your family and little Sophie are in my prayers! Lori"
"Praying like mad...please keep us posted on what you hear.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo"(Melissa)
"The news sounds good out of Chengdu. Rumor Queen seems to be on top of things. I haven't checked Half the Sky's site yet. Denise"
"I am praying for our little girl and those who are caring for her. Thanks for keeping me updated. Thinking of you and Rick!" (Beth)
"Here is a link to a news article about the earth quake near Chengdu.http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24573168/?GT1=43001Our own Pandafamily members Michele and Rick Houston have a waiting daughter in Chengdu. I want to personally offer Michele and her family the best hope for good news.Mary"
"I’ll keep her in my prayers. You are such a strong sane person. Keep it up, she’ll soon be with you!" (Kris)
"Have you heard back about how Sophie is doing? How far was she from this?
sum"
"Dear Michelle:
She has been on mind all morning. Of course, we will pray for her and the people affected. I hope all is well. It may take a while to get news but please let us know when you hear anything.
Love,
Maria"
"TY – I’m forwarding it home so I can take my time and read it. Thanks for sharing in your special adventure. Cil"
"We've been thinking about Sophie all day... Michele, please let us know if you hear anything. I'm going to go check your blog and keep checking it for details. We are praying that her orphanage is okay. I have been reading all the news articles I can find. You guys are in our thoughts and prayers! Jess & David & kids...."
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Chinese Visa Applications Are On Their Way!
This is what I got today about our Tourist Visa's!!
Received your passport and they are on the way to the Chinese Consulate for visa processing.
One Step closer to Sophie!!
Received your passport and they are on the way to the Chinese Consulate for visa processing.
One Step closer to Sophie!!
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Sophies First Package Arrives
Sophie's First Package Arrives in China. This does not mean that she has seen it though. It may take a day or two for it to get to her. I guess the only way we will ever know if it made it or not is if she has the blanket and/or stuffed animal when we see her??
Here is what I have been following these past few days:
Delivered Abroad, May 07, 2008, 4:25 pm, CHINA PEOPLES REP
Arrived Abroad, May 05, 2008, 8:48 pm, CHINA PEOPLES REP
International Dispatch, May 02, 2008, 5:14 pm, SAN FRANCISCO
Processed, May 02, 2008, 5:13 pm, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94128
Processed, May 01, 2008, 8:24 pm, SEATTLE, WA 98158
Acceptance, May 01, 2008, 7:51 pm, SEATTLE, WA 98158
So we are working on mailing her second one. This one will have the two disposable cameras.
Here is what I have been following these past few days:
Delivered Abroad, May 07, 2008, 4:25 pm, CHINA PEOPLES REP
Arrived Abroad, May 05, 2008, 8:48 pm, CHINA PEOPLES REP
International Dispatch, May 02, 2008, 5:14 pm, SAN FRANCISCO
Processed, May 02, 2008, 5:13 pm, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94128
Processed, May 01, 2008, 8:24 pm, SEATTLE, WA 98158
Acceptance, May 01, 2008, 7:51 pm, SEATTLE, WA 98158
So we are working on mailing her second one. This one will have the two disposable cameras.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Our LOA Arrives TODAY!
Yes, its TRUE! It's Here!! Our Letter Seeking Confirmation of Adoption has arrived. (LOA or LOC). We waited three weeks exactly for this to arrive. They are estimating that our Travel Approval (TA) will arrive in around 4 weeks from now and then we will travel by 3 weeks later.
After talking to our case worker today she said our TA could arrive a little sooner and since we want to travel ASAP after that they are going to try and get the US Consulate Appointment as early as possible since we are willing to travel that fast. We left five days after we received Simone's TA so we feel like we are up to it. So we are praying that we will be there by June 5th, which would be five weeks from now.....
To celebrate Simone and I went out side to take pictures and then she wanted to use the camera and take photos too.
Simone told us that she "made that necklase" that she is wearing today at preschool for her Sister Sophie. She is so sweet and thoughtful.
Thanks Auntie Dana for the cute new outfit. I love it and I told my Mommy that, "I DO not wear socks with dresses!" (This is what Simone told me when I tried to put on "no show socks" so she could wear some cute gym shoes. She wanted her Sparkly Pink Shoes with this outfit with no socks. She knows what she likes.
Thanks Auntie Dana for the cute new outfit. I love it and I told my Mommy that, "I DO not wear socks with dresses!" (This is what Simone told me when I tried to put on "no show socks" so she could wear some cute gym shoes. She wanted her Sparkly Pink Shoes with this outfit with no socks. She knows what she likes.
What? Are you Serious! We still have to wait to go and bring Sophie home!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What?
Ok, time to be silly. KISSES.
We just want to get on that plane and head to China!!
Below are the pictures that Simone took all by her self!! She likes to take photos. I did not crop them, they are the originals. They are not the best photos of Rick and I but I am posting them anyways so Simone can have a memory of taking these.
She told me she was, "Taking photos of the pretty flowers."
Looks like she is into photography just like her Mommy and Daddy.
I love this one because it is from her heighth! Ah, that messy counter :O)
What?
Ok, time to be silly. KISSES.
We just want to get on that plane and head to China!!Below are the pictures that Simone took all by her self!! She likes to take photos. I did not crop them, they are the originals. They are not the best photos of Rick and I but I am posting them anyways so Simone can have a memory of taking these.
She told me she was, "Taking photos of the pretty flowers."
Looks like she is into photography just like her Mommy and Daddy.
I love this one because it is from her heighth! Ah, that messy counter :O)Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Half the Sky "Granny" Program???
We have inquired about a "Granny" program that Sophie is involved with. Our agency is not for sure what this is.....So I have done a little research. My friend Kim has also told me about the program that her daughter was in, which is highly likely that Sophie is in the same program but we will not know until we talk with the Orphanage Director and/or when we get home and are able to request information from Half the Sky.
Here is what Patricia told me from Half the Sky. It explains our confusion. So after we arrive home we can confirm our thoughts....Still not sure if she is in the Little Sisters Program or the Baby Sisters Program. I would think it would now be the Little Sisters Program due to her age??? Here is what Patricia emailed me below.
4/29/08
Michele,
The program that is referred to as a “Granny” program is not the Little Sisters program—it’s the baby sisters program, i.e. our nannies are referred to as “Grandmas” in some translations. Here is the link to information about that program:
http://www.halfthesky.org/work/babysisters.php
Regards,
Patricia
4/28/08
Dear Michele,
Congratulations on your referral!
We do have a Baby Sisters program in Chengdu and when it is translated from Chinese into English it is often referred to as the “granny” program.
We will be happy to check our database and send you any progress reports/photos we have on file for your daughter after you bring her home—our staff prepares a short progress report with a photo four times a year.
Regarding your donation question, donations of any amount can be targeted to a specific orphanage where we have a center, including Chengdu.
I hope you travel to China soon—have a wonderful trip.
Sincerely,
Patricia
Here is a link to a great video about Half the Sky's Programs. (Click on that sentence to view link.)
Here is a little bit about both of these programs:
The Little Sisters Preschool Program (Click on the Title for the Link)
In the Little Sisters Preschools, Half the Sky-trained teachers use a unique and progressive curriculum that blends principles of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education with contemporary Chinese teaching methods.
The program is designed not only to prepare the children (2-7years) to succeed in Chinese schools, but also to help develop the “whole child”, to help her attain the positive sense of self so often missing in institutionalized children.
Special areas are designed for art projects, music, reading, imaginary play and developing motor skills. Teachers build on the approach fostered in the infant nurture program by getting to know each child’s individual interests and developing curriculum and projects based on those interests.
All Half the Sky preschool teachers are university or normal school (teacher’s college)-educated in China and also undergo Half the Sky training which includes an emphasis on documenting each child’s progress – creating a personal history and permanent record for children who do not have a family to mark their milestones and achievements.
The Baby Sisters Infant Nurture Program (Click on Title for Link)
The little ones in Half the Sky’s Baby Sisters Infant Nurture Centers make their journey from sleeping infants to running toddlers with the help of Half the Sky-trained nannies with whom they develop deep emotional bonds. These are the bonds that are crucial for healthy brain development.
Half the Sky’s nannies—retired or laid-off workers from the local community—are trained to act as every parent who has fallen in love with a child intuitively acts—they sing, play, cuddle, hug, and generally dote on their charges. In so doing the nannies help babies avoid the problems that are so common in institutionalized children who have been fed and clothed, but not cherished.
The nannies learn to recognize the signs of delays. They learn simple therapies to help the babies reach developmental milestones. They learn the art of responsive care…watching their young charges, listening to them, and providing the nurture as it is needed.
Infants need more than food and clothes—they need the daily love and interaction with caring adults that Half the Sky’s nannies provide.
We are excited to know that Sophie is recieving extra help.
Here is what Patricia told me from Half the Sky. It explains our confusion. So after we arrive home we can confirm our thoughts....Still not sure if she is in the Little Sisters Program or the Baby Sisters Program. I would think it would now be the Little Sisters Program due to her age??? Here is what Patricia emailed me below.
4/29/08
Michele,
The program that is referred to as a “Granny” program is not the Little Sisters program—it’s the baby sisters program, i.e. our nannies are referred to as “Grandmas” in some translations. Here is the link to information about that program:
http://www.halfthesky.org/work/babysisters.php
Regards,
Patricia
4/28/08
Dear Michele,
Congratulations on your referral!
We do have a Baby Sisters program in Chengdu and when it is translated from Chinese into English it is often referred to as the “granny” program.
We will be happy to check our database and send you any progress reports/photos we have on file for your daughter after you bring her home—our staff prepares a short progress report with a photo four times a year.
Regarding your donation question, donations of any amount can be targeted to a specific orphanage where we have a center, including Chengdu.
I hope you travel to China soon—have a wonderful trip.
Sincerely,
Patricia
Here is a link to a great video about Half the Sky's Programs. (Click on that sentence to view link.)
Here is a little bit about both of these programs:
The Little Sisters Preschool Program (Click on the Title for the Link)
In the Little Sisters Preschools, Half the Sky-trained teachers use a unique and progressive curriculum that blends principles of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education with contemporary Chinese teaching methods.
The program is designed not only to prepare the children (2-7years) to succeed in Chinese schools, but also to help develop the “whole child”, to help her attain the positive sense of self so often missing in institutionalized children.
Special areas are designed for art projects, music, reading, imaginary play and developing motor skills. Teachers build on the approach fostered in the infant nurture program by getting to know each child’s individual interests and developing curriculum and projects based on those interests.
All Half the Sky preschool teachers are university or normal school (teacher’s college)-educated in China and also undergo Half the Sky training which includes an emphasis on documenting each child’s progress – creating a personal history and permanent record for children who do not have a family to mark their milestones and achievements.
The Baby Sisters Infant Nurture Program (Click on Title for Link)
The little ones in Half the Sky’s Baby Sisters Infant Nurture Centers make their journey from sleeping infants to running toddlers with the help of Half the Sky-trained nannies with whom they develop deep emotional bonds. These are the bonds that are crucial for healthy brain development.
Half the Sky’s nannies—retired or laid-off workers from the local community—are trained to act as every parent who has fallen in love with a child intuitively acts—they sing, play, cuddle, hug, and generally dote on their charges. In so doing the nannies help babies avoid the problems that are so common in institutionalized children who have been fed and clothed, but not cherished.
The nannies learn to recognize the signs of delays. They learn simple therapies to help the babies reach developmental milestones. They learn the art of responsive care…watching their young charges, listening to them, and providing the nurture as it is needed.
Infants need more than food and clothes—they need the daily love and interaction with caring adults that Half the Sky’s nannies provide.
We are excited to know that Sophie is recieving extra help.
Thank God for Half the Sky!!!
Help From Friends
I have been feeling so overwhelmed with things to do lately that I have had to ask others for help. I just want to write a little bit about it here so Sophie knows about all of the people that have helped her.
I wanted to say Thank You to Roxx (here is a link to their adoption story, very touching!!) because of helping us with reading our report and giving us advise and pointing other things out. We appreciate your teaching and Mom knowledge. Also thank you for contacting your sister in law and friend from College about Medical Information for Sophie. I am sure that they are very busy people and I appreciate you taking time to ask them as a favor to us. Roxx, did you know that the very day we saw Sophie for the first time and looked at her report I saw Beth picking up Nicholas at Cross Country Practice. She read the report and said the same thing about when we could start Sophie in Kindergarten, etc.!! Here is one of the emails from Roxx:
M, Here are my notes from the report. Let me know if you have any questions. My pleasure to help! Thanks for including me! I love Sophie already! You must be ready to burst. I remember this stage... hang in there... you'll be on the plane soon! XOXOX,R
I also wanted to say Thank You To Kimi for researching a video camera for us and finding such a good one that was affordable. It feels good to let go. You know before I would of never have done that. Thanks for picking up the disposable cameras for us. Thank you so much for taking our videos of our Gottcha Day and China Trip with Simone and putting it on a DVD for us. We are so appreciative and it is helping Simone in so many ways. Thank you so much for your friendship.
Thanks Rachel for thinking of putting Simone in a swim class with Lauren and Jake this summer. I wish she was ready. For now we will just stick to the open swims, well that is if we can get in, Ha-Ha. Thanks for always checking in.
Becca for helping me get Simone into a gymnastics class because you know how much she LOVES it. I have been so busy with work I have not had the time to keep up with the organization of it all at the moment. Get your camera ready.
Jeni for being you and listening. I miss you already! When are you coming home?!?? I saw Todd today and told him that I missed you. He said some thing like you are going to be home in a couple of days...I said, I know and though to my self that phone calls to Florida are pretty expensive but worth it...Really I don't want to bug you while you are taking care of Sara :O) You better be pampering her.
Friends and Family for your emails and prayers....And for asking. We don't mind when you ask us how things are going.. Please remember to post comments here that you want Sophie to have as a memory.
Thank God for Friends!
I wanted to say Thank You to Roxx (here is a link to their adoption story, very touching!!) because of helping us with reading our report and giving us advise and pointing other things out. We appreciate your teaching and Mom knowledge. Also thank you for contacting your sister in law and friend from College about Medical Information for Sophie. I am sure that they are very busy people and I appreciate you taking time to ask them as a favor to us. Roxx, did you know that the very day we saw Sophie for the first time and looked at her report I saw Beth picking up Nicholas at Cross Country Practice. She read the report and said the same thing about when we could start Sophie in Kindergarten, etc.!! Here is one of the emails from Roxx:
M, Here are my notes from the report. Let me know if you have any questions. My pleasure to help! Thanks for including me! I love Sophie already! You must be ready to burst. I remember this stage... hang in there... you'll be on the plane soon! XOXOX,R
I also wanted to say Thank You To Kimi for researching a video camera for us and finding such a good one that was affordable. It feels good to let go. You know before I would of never have done that. Thanks for picking up the disposable cameras for us. Thank you so much for taking our videos of our Gottcha Day and China Trip with Simone and putting it on a DVD for us. We are so appreciative and it is helping Simone in so many ways. Thank you so much for your friendship.
Thanks Rachel for thinking of putting Simone in a swim class with Lauren and Jake this summer. I wish she was ready. For now we will just stick to the open swims, well that is if we can get in, Ha-Ha. Thanks for always checking in.
Becca for helping me get Simone into a gymnastics class because you know how much she LOVES it. I have been so busy with work I have not had the time to keep up with the organization of it all at the moment. Get your camera ready.
Jeni for being you and listening. I miss you already! When are you coming home?!?? I saw Todd today and told him that I missed you. He said some thing like you are going to be home in a couple of days...I said, I know and though to my self that phone calls to Florida are pretty expensive but worth it...Really I don't want to bug you while you are taking care of Sara :O) You better be pampering her.
Friends and Family for your emails and prayers....And for asking. We don't mind when you ask us how things are going.. Please remember to post comments here that you want Sophie to have as a memory.
Thank God for Friends!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Brandon!!
Our Nephew Brandon arrived today from Texas!!
It was so good to see him!! We can't wait to spend more time with him this weekend and watch the Loyalty Day Parade.
Simone adores him and she kept giving him hugs! Simone keeps telling me, "Cause Brandon gave me this, his own!" (As she holds up his Rubics Cube. She is referring to the Rubic Cube that she gave to him.
It is so good to see family!
It was so good to see him!! We can't wait to spend more time with him this weekend and watch the Loyalty Day Parade.
Simone adores him and she kept giving him hugs! Simone keeps telling me, "Cause Brandon gave me this, his own!" (As she holds up his Rubics Cube. She is referring to the Rubic Cube that she gave to him.
It is so good to see family!
University of Washington Doctor
Today we received information from Heather who works for Dr. Davies at The Center for Adoption Medicine University of Washington Pediatric Care Center. Dr. Davies is the one who consulted us with Sophie's Referral. She sent us an email regarding the medical update that we received from China in April. Dr. Davies gave us encouraging comments.
We are thankful to receive care from such a wonderful doctor.
Dear Michele and Rick,
Dr. Davies just returned your file to me with his comments on your update. He wrote, "Her growth is steadily small (but not worse, and her head circumference is closer to the 3rd percentile than before.) She has impressive language development, as reported! I'm not surprised about the walking comments."
We should send you a new prescription form with adjusted dosage for the zithromax.
Thanks! Heather
We are thankful to receive care from such a wonderful doctor.
Dear Michele and Rick,
Dr. Davies just returned your file to me with his comments on your update. He wrote, "Her growth is steadily small (but not worse, and her head circumference is closer to the 3rd percentile than before.) She has impressive language development, as reported! I'm not surprised about the walking comments."
We should send you a new prescription form with adjusted dosage for the zithromax.
Thanks! Heather
Possible Photos of Sophie from Denise
It was an email from a blogger friend Denise. She sent the email through our Chengdu Yahoo Group Email. We are so thankful that Denise though of our family and has this memorie for photo for Sophie. Thank YOU DENISE!!
I want to keep the email for Sophie so her is what she wrote:
I have some pics from the orphanage that I think shows your Sophie. E mail me and I will e mail them to you. I am not sure, but wanted you to see them. I felt bad not being able to get you any info while I was there.I tried to go to your blog, but I guess that you have gone private. I would love to be invited to view your blog if you are comfortable with that.Denise
Above are the photos she sent. Sophie is in the first photo on the left. What a blessing!!!!!!!!!!
A COUPLE OF UPDATES:
***A little bit about closing Sophie's blog for a couple of days. I panicked after reading a couple of other blogs....I read on a couple that China checks blogs and yahoo groups and it may possibly affect your adoption. Since I was so busy this last weekend and at work I did not have time to look into this. After doing research we feel comfortable opening it back up for now since we do have our PA.
****Our adoption agency told us our package to Sophie was finally mailed today!!!!! The person who needed to translate our letter was out on vacation and has been trying to catch up since she has been gone. Anyways we are happy about it being on it's way. We also received the official address to the Orphanage and will be sending our second package some time next week. It will have two disposable cameras and not sure what else??
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Part Two of It Is SOPHIE!!
Thanks to Kim, Amelia Mom, we now have all of these photos of Sophie!! I appreciate her emails and time it took to email me all of these photos. She also sent me a few photos that do not have Sophie in them but they are also so valuable because they tell the story about where Sophie lives. She included photos of the Orphanage Foray, Kitchen, Therapy Room, "bedrooms"....She knows first hand how these photos are priceless. I also like the photos that Sophie is not in because one of these Ayi's may very be hers!!!! These photos were taking between June-July of 2007.
Kim also told me that there is a chance that Sophie may be in the Half the Sky program. Maybe this is what they are referring to the "Grannie Program" that she is in?? They give us no other information other than that. From what Kim explained and after reading their web site I learned that I can only find out if they have her information after she is adopted which means we will have to wait until we come home. Kim told me that they gave her photos of her daughter while in the program and a written report in Chinese.
Seeing these photos make me so happy to know that she is having fun and the orphanage seems very clean. Happy to see that she is playing with toys and being physically active. When I put Simone to bed at night we pray for Sophie and for our travel to China.
Thank you so MUCH KIM!!!
It IS!
The first photo I saw of Sophie which is from last summer (2007), which would of been before her 2nd birthday.
Some how I started reading a blog called Amelia's Journey. I think I was linked to it from my Chengdu Yahoo Group. I was first interested in this blog because this child was adopted from the same orphanage where Sophie lives. Then I find out she has club feet (hoping to learn more about the process) just like Sophie so I read more...and more and then I find this entry and I see Sophie's face!! I immediately talk to Rick and he thinks it is her too. So I left a comment on this Mom's blog and she emailed us back confirming our thoughts.
What a blessing that Kim wanted to share her photos and information with us. She is our angel :O)
How wonderful to have more photos from Sophie's past and learn more about where she lives and her little friends!!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Can It BE??
(I thought this photo was fitting. I took it just out side of the White Swan Hotel in Goungzhou China in May of 2005. Beautiful Chinese lanterns, but the sky is over casted from smog....just how I feel right now from finding these photos.)Today as I was reading another adopted families blog who adopted from the same Orphanage as where Sophie lives my eyes stumble upon a couple of photos that look just like our little Sophie!!! I have been feeling sick today and was not even going to check my email but I did. I can't even remember how I found their blog. I think it was from the Chengdu Yahoo Group that I belong to. Oh, how I appreciate that group. So I left a comment on their blog and hope that they email me back.
Can it be?? I show Rick and he immediately says it is too.
Can it be?? The families blog that I was reading this afternoon just kept me interested so I kept reading on and on and on......then I read that their second daughter has club feet just like Sophie and look to be around the same age.
Can it be?? It is worth hoping for as I have no idea of how many photos we will have from her past? If it is not that is OK, at least we tried and looked into it. The photo is from last summer but it still looks like her.
Can it be?? Time will tell......
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Mailed Package For Sophie Today
We mailed our first package for Sophie today. Part of me wanted to "smash" the three of us in that box and send us to China!!
It is a weird feeling to be sending her material things when all I want is for us to be together and hold our little girl. Doing some thing like this should be so easy but it was so very hard today. I am surprised by days like today because I never would of thought that I would of gotten so emotional over putting this little package together. I have known about this for over a month now, I knew I wold be doing this but I still got emotional. But on the other hand I am so happy that she will be able to finally see us, her new family.
As you can see by this first photo we left a spot blank under her photo because our agency is going to translate her name and write it there.
We sent Sophie a cute, snugly pink blanket, tiny plush dog and a photo album. At the last minute I put in two hair pretties and three play bracelets because they said she likes to have her hair "done up" and likes to dress up.
Thanks Becca and Sue for all of your help today making this little album for Sophie!
Here is one of the inside pages. After the first page we put a couple of photos of Simone, then a couple of Me, then a couple of Daddy, then a couple of my Mom (the Grandma because we were told to include all family members that will be traveling to China with us.), then a couple of our family, then our dog, then her room, then I wrote on one page a short letter - on the opposite side our agency will translate it in Chinese. The last page is another photo of her and they are going to write the words We Love you in Chinese. We tried to keep one photo per page so it would be appropriate for her developmental level and not to clutter looking. We laminated it and it is 7 x 7.It was so hard to figure out what to write and to make it short and developmentally appropriate. We have so much to say to her, I just went blank!!! I also wanted to get it out in the mail today so I did not have much time to think this over. I think I was trying too hard, trying to make it just so for our little girl.
Here is what I wrote:
Dear Ji Shi Wei,
We are so excited to become your Mommy, Daddy and Sister.
Simone can't wait to play with you. Your dog is also waiting for you.
We look at your pictures every day! you have such a beautiful smile, cute hair and adorable eyes. We feel so lucky and can't wait to hold you.
We will see you in a couple of months and bring you home so we can be a family forever.
We love you, Mommy, Daddy and Big Sister Simone
On Thursday, when we received our Pre Approval, our case worker told us we could now send a care package to Sophie. We are so excited to finally send her one!! Our agency said they would send one for us and they would label all photos as well as translate a short letter. They are very specific about what you can send, no camera. They said that we could send another package on our own and we will.
In the next one we for sure will be sending a camera. I was so lucky to have talked with Denise via email and she told me about Red Thread China . She said that I could send Sophie a package through them like she has. Has anyone else had good luck with them?? Any advice or stories would be appreciated.
I feel so blessed to have been in contact with other Moms who are/have adopted from China as I really value your support and information.
Thanks, Michele
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Pre Approval from China Today for Sophie!
When I picked up Simone from school today her Teacher Barb told me that Simone had some thing in her cuby to show me. I think she said that her Teacher Jessica or Teacher Dee wanted her to show us this. When I saw it I was so happy because it was like she already knew about the good news that I was going to tell her. The good news is that we received our Pre Approval from China today!!!!!!!!
Big day in our house.
I think she did a pretty good job of drawing Sophie.
Simone is doing so good with her writing. Here she writes Sophies name and Baby! I love the photo she made of Sophie. The long eye lashes and short hair!! I just had to take a photo since it was on the white board and we have to return it to preschool tomorrow.
Simone is doing so good with her writing. Here she writes Sophies name and Baby! I love the photo she made of Sophie. The long eye lashes and short hair!! I just had to take a photo since it was on the white board and we have to return it to preschool tomorrow.
Below is the email that our case worker sent us after we got off the phone. I am posting the email since she does such a good job of spelling out every thing.
Hi Rickey and Michele,
Congratulations on receiving your pre-approval today from the CCAA. This means that the CCAA has pre-approved your family to adopt Shi Wei. They will now match your dossier with your pre-approval application and review your information more closely. If everything looks good, they will then issue your Confirmation Letter in 2-4 months from now (possibly shorter because your family were logged in earlier but 2-4 months has been the average). Average wait time to receive your Travel Notice will be 3-5 months, and then travel around 3-4 weeks later.
I asked Yu Ping who works in the China Program about the pronounciation and meaning of Shi Wei's full name. She said that her last name Ji is pronounced the same as the character of the chicken, but they didn't use the character that means chicken. Instead, the character they used means record or millennium.
She said the character of Shi means world. The character of Wei doesn't really have a meaning but is a very typical character for a girl.
Regarding the pronounciation, Shi Wei is pronounced the way you say it from what I can tell. 'Ji" is a little bit harder and to get it all correct, I will put Yu Ping on the phone one day to pronounce it for you since she is Chinese. I hope this works.
Sincerely, Linda
Congratulations on receiving your pre-approval today from the CCAA. This means that the CCAA has pre-approved your family to adopt Shi Wei. They will now match your dossier with your pre-approval application and review your information more closely. If everything looks good, they will then issue your Confirmation Letter in 2-4 months from now (possibly shorter because your family were logged in earlier but 2-4 months has been the average). Average wait time to receive your Travel Notice will be 3-5 months, and then travel around 3-4 weeks later.
I asked Yu Ping who works in the China Program about the pronounciation and meaning of Shi Wei's full name. She said that her last name Ji is pronounced the same as the character of the chicken, but they didn't use the character that means chicken. Instead, the character they used means record or millennium.
She said the character of Shi means world. The character of Wei doesn't really have a meaning but is a very typical character for a girl.
Regarding the pronounciation, Shi Wei is pronounced the way you say it from what I can tell. 'Ji" is a little bit harder and to get it all correct, I will put Yu Ping on the phone one day to pronounce it for you since she is Chinese. I hope this works.
Sincerely, Linda
What I appreciate about our agency is that they always prepare you for the longest wait times! Two families from our agency just received their Travel Approval on Friday for their waiting children. I asked her their time line. She told me that the one family has a LID like ours from 2006 & waited two months for their Travel Approval. The other family that has an LID of 2007 waited three months for their Travel Approval. But as always, things can go much longer or much faster.
It is all in Gods timing. This will probably be the last time I do this but here are some of the emails we received today. Since this will be Sophie's scrapbook I just want to save them for her. From now on if anyone wants to leave her a comment just leave it here on her blog so she can have it. Here are the wonderful comments we received from our friends this afternoon!!!! Since you don't know all of my friends nick names I have added them in parentheses. *See them below:
*HOLY SMOKES!!! I am so thrilled for you! This is fabulous. God has all the details worked out. Your family has shown so much faith in your wait.
How fun is summer going to be????
Michele, I know a lot of people offer, but if you need ANYTHING, please ask (Andrea M)
*Congratulations!! One more step closer to Sophie!! Hopefully everything else will come quickly and you can soon be on your way!
Nadine
*holy cow that is fabulous! The best news ever! I am so thrilled for you guys!!
Love from us 5 (The Kuhlmans)
*that is so great WOW can't wait to meet her (Rachel, Bryan, Holt and Kingsley)
*Great news for you! June would be great then you would have the summer with her before you had to go back to school. You are in my prayers. Love and miss you guys. (Cami and Chris)
*Just in time for a wonderful summer…and beyond!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy for your family…little Sophie couldn't’t be luckier to have the parents and sister that await her! I just got the chills writing this!!
Jan Mills
*I dont know if Windy wrote you back yet.. But I am so excited for the both of you!! We are praying that everything goes smoothly for you guys! Mike
One more thing! After lunch I started telling my PE classes. I was so excited to finally tell them. I will tell the rest of my classes tomorrow. There are a few classes that I will miss since their second PE day was on Wed. but I am sure the good news will fly!
So what now? I am working on a small photo album to send to Sophie tonight for her Care Package!! YIPPY, we finally get to do this. We are sending her a pink blanket, small photo album, letter and small stuffed animal or doll. I will take pictures of it when it is ready. Our agency can not send a disposable camera due to the rules so I will send her a second small package with one of those in it. It is a neat feeling to know that soon she will see our faces and learn that her Mommy, Daddy and Sister are coming to get her soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you God!
*Below are some more comments from family and friends....I just have to keep them for Sophie. So here they are.
*I dont know if Windy wrote you back yet.. But I am so excited for the both of you!! We are praying that everything goes smoothly for you guys! Mike
*Congratulation...... two months are nothing....... Sophie will be here soon!!!!!!! I send a big kiss for Simone.............. Bye! Lina
*Oh, my gosh! CONGRATULATIONS! I am so excited for your family! Keep me posted! How great if you could head out as soon as June to go get Sophie and bring her home! (Jessica C.)
*I am so excited for you and your family as you await the arrival of your little girl! (Lori)
Monday, April 07, 2008
Tears Today
So today after work I just went into my office and just sat there thinking of Sophie. It is so hard to think of her in China and us here at home just wanting to hold her.
So I just started to look at a few of my favorite blogs of people that are in China right now with their new daughters and I started to tear up. I just hope that we can bring Sophie Home SOON!!
As I stare at the computer one of my friends, Kris, comes in to see how things are going. What great timing as I needed to snap out of it. Thanks Kris for coming down to visit and check on me. It means the world to me.
Waiting for Sophie seems even harder now that we are so close but yet it seems so far away!
I just pray every day for her health and happiness while she waits for her Mommy, Daddy and Sister to come and bring her home!
So I just started to look at a few of my favorite blogs of people that are in China right now with their new daughters and I started to tear up. I just hope that we can bring Sophie Home SOON!!
As I stare at the computer one of my friends, Kris, comes in to see how things are going. What great timing as I needed to snap out of it. Thanks Kris for coming down to visit and check on me. It means the world to me.
Waiting for Sophie seems even harder now that we are so close but yet it seems so far away!
I just pray every day for her health and happiness while she waits for her Mommy, Daddy and Sister to come and bring her home!
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Tea Party For Sophie
Simone, "Cheers for Sophie!"
Sara
Today Simone, Sara, My Mom and I had a little Tea Party for Sophie. We got out a few candles, special hand made "flower dishes" by Simone and I, little tea cups, cookies, warm milk and a little globe.... all for Sophie.
We have been lucky to spend a lot of time this week with Sara so we thought this would be fun to do while the Daddy's are out purchasing new road/pedal bicycles and Emma, Becca and Grandma Cyndi are out having a big girls day.
(While I am writing this blog my Mom, Sara and Simone are down stairs watching Singing and Dancing with Mei Mei! (A very cute Chinese Dance/Singing DVD. They are all singing as we speak, I just love listening to them.)
Here is a little sample of our conversations from our tea party: (Let me give you a little back ground information. Scott, Becca, Emma and Sara are considering going to China with us. It all depends on the timing of the trip and the price of air plane tickets, etc......)
Michele - "Girls what is your favorite thing to do?"
Simone - "Candles."
Sara - "China."
Michele - "What is your favorite song?"
Simone - "Lullaby"
Sara - "China"
Simone - "What is yours Mommy?"
Michele - "Mine is the Island Princess song, When We are Here Together."
Grandma Prater - "Praise the Lord."
Simone - "Mine is just what Grandma said."
Sara - "I LOVE THAT ONE!"
Simone - "Sing that one Grandma." So Grandma Prater sings a few lines from that song."
Sara - "You like coffee?" (She is talking to Grandma Prater)
Grandma Prater - "Yes, do you like it?"
Sara - "NO, It's GROUSE! It is only for Grandmas!"
Michele - "What is your favorite book?"
Simone - "My favorite is Jesus Loves Me." (Grandma Prater just gave it to her for Easter.)
Sara - "Is For My Momma."
Michele - "What is your favorite thing to eat?"
Simone - "Mac and Cheese."
Sara - "Mac and Cheese."
Michele - "What is your favorite animal."
Simone - "LION"
Sara - "Tigers, Baby Tigers."
Michele - "Let's look at the globe. This is where Sophie lives in China."
Sara - "Yeah."
Simone - "It takes a long plane ride."
Simone - "Sara wants to go to China."
What a fun morning we had during our little Tea Party for Sophie!!
Sara, Grandma Prater and Simone.
A Special Gift
On Wednesday March 26th, 2008 we came home to a special package on the front porch. When we opened it we saw that it was a beautiful, warm, snugly fleece blanket from our friends Roxi and Beth!! They also embroidered Sophie's name on it. I got very emotional and teary eyed looking at it when I found they also put her birthday on there!!! It was such a thoughtful gift from two friends!! Thanks for thinking of our little Sophie. We can't wait to wrap her in it and we will be bringing this to China with us.
Love you guys!! ~US
Simone's idea for me to "take a picture" of her in Sophie's blanket. I said, "Well I can not see your face!" Simone replies, "that's OK, take the picture!"Friday, April 04, 2008
Email from Case Worker
Hi Michelle,
Thank you for your e-mail. One family waited a little over one month from their pre-approval date to receiving the confirmation letter. The other family waited over 2 months. I will say that in your case, it is possible that it will be on the faster end because your dossier has already been reviewed and you have been logged in for a long time.
Have a great weekend, (case worker)
Thank you for your e-mail. One family waited a little over one month from their pre-approval date to receiving the confirmation letter. The other family waited over 2 months. I will say that in your case, it is possible that it will be on the faster end because your dossier has already been reviewed and you have been logged in for a long time.
Have a great weekend, (case worker)
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Update Information About Sophie Today!!
Today was a big day for us at our house because we received updated information about medical and developmental information about Sophie! We are so blessed that we received this today! We are hoping it is a good sign as we just want to go bring her home!!!!!!!!Rick also recieved good news, he recieved a scholarship for his National Board Teaching Certification that he will be doing in the fall!!! We are so proud of him!!!!
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