Black and White Wednesday - "Travel"

A few months ago, as we knew we were getting awfully close to receiving our referral, we needed to figure out how we were going to handle travel to China.

I do remember asking many people their thoughts on this subject. Should we take the kids, should we leave them at home. Do we take one without the other.....so on and so forth.

Well, from a financial standpoint we decided taking the entire family was just out of the question. Not to mention that we were not sure how Sarah would do on a trip like this. We know at times it can be stressful and we could be dealing with a new baby that is grieving terribly. So we were pretty quick to say we would leave the kids at home and just Pat and I would travel......

But as time went on and this adoption became a reality, we had to make another very tough decision.

After a long heart to heart, Pat and I decided that it was best for our family if only one of us traveled to China, while the other one stayed at home to take care of both Nick and Sarah.

So I will be traveling to China and Pat will be staying here with the kids....... I know he has to be feeling a little disappointed, but we both know that in the end this is the best option for our particular circumstance.

The day after we made this decsion, I was talking to my friend Marla and told her I was going to China by myself. She said, "WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY YOURSELF" I said, I am going to travel alone.

I went on to explain why we made the choice and she listened intently.

A few hours later, I receieved an email from her...... She had met her husband for lunch that day and told him about our decision.

Since they had traveled to China twice to complete the adoptions of both of their beautiful girls, they had lots of experience and knew exactly what to expect on a trip like this. While they were talking, even though it can be done and a lot of people do it successfully, they both felt it was a gamble to go on a trip like this completely alone. They explained that there were many times that you could use an extra set of hands....... and what if I happened to get sick while I was there. Who would take care of the baby? All very valid questions.

After explaining some of their concerns, she went on to say that she would be willing to be my Travel Partner and Roommate for the two weeks I needed to be in China.....she was telling me she would go with me to bring home our little girl. I almost couldn't believe my eyes..... I don't think I finished reading the complete email and I was already dialing her number to see if she was serious......

YES.... she was serious alright!

She had already discussed it with her husband and he felt that it was a great idea.

I was so excited....... I think I continued to ask her if she was really serious for the next 4-6 weeks, because I just could not believe that someone would be generous enough to make such a huge commitment and sacrifice by leaving her own family for two weeks.

Pat and I were both completely blown away and so touched by the offer and after weeks of me "double checking" that she was not pulling my leg, Marla and I started discussing the trip in great detail.

Of course I am sad that Pat will not be by my side to meet Reagan for the first time in China, but given the circumstances, I couldn't be happier to have such an amazing lady and very special friend with me every step of the way on this incredible journey.


Marla, Derek, and the 4 J's will always hold a special place in our hearts........ as far as we are concerned, they are family.....and we will never be able to express our gratitude for all that they have done. Love you guys!!



Now for the big question that everyone is asking.

When are we going to travel to China to bring this angel home?

We don't know yet....

Hoping and praying it will be early October, but only time will tell.

We might be delayed because of some upcoming holidays and a big trade fair that takes place in Guangzhou.

If that is the case, it will be late October, early November and Sarah will not be the only one sporting a pouty face. I will be pouting right along side of her:(

I'll keep everyone posted as we get new information, updates.....and if by chance a few more pictures come our way:)