Once Upon A Prayer: February 2012

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Reflections from Papa

As we get closer and closer to going to China, I spend more and more time each day wondering what our girls will be like. I wonder what kind of things will make them laugh. I wonder what their favorite American foods will be. I wonder what they will think of Moose (I am sure they will be scared to death at first). I wonder what it will feel like watching them play with Dryden and Soleil for the first time. I wonder what it will feel like the first time I hear Lily or Mackenzie call me Papa!

Do you remember the first time you realized God was your father? Do you remember the first time you called him “Dad”? What would your life look like if He hadn’t adopted you? I love what Paul said about our adoption. “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Romans 8:14-16). Take some time today and wonder about what it will be like when you’re adopted Father brings you home forever – in paradise!

Peace and Goodwill,

Jacques

Sunday, February 12, 2012

We will recklessly love them...even if we bleed.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Update on Lily Grace

This morning I opned my email to a wonderful surprise!

We received an update on our sweet Lily Grace...

our little princess is growing up!

1. Is Qiu Yan potty trained?

She tells her nanny (Yao <sounds like “your”> Niao Niao) when she needs to go potty. She goes to bathroom and sits on the potty herself. She doesn’t wear diapers any more.

2. Did Director Zhang decide to send Qiu Yan to preschool?

She is not in preschool yet. She is not old enough to go preschool.

3. Has Qiu Yan had any illnesses recently?

She seldom has any illness since her surgery was done. She catches a cold occasionally.

4. Does Qiu Yan drink out of a bottle?

No. She drinks water out of a cup, but she likes to drink water out of a bottle. She feeds herself with spoon.

5. What is the best way to comfort Qiu Yan when she is upset?

Take her outside makes her very happy. Or you can pick her up and talk with her. She really likes her nanny hold her. Or give her some snacks or toys she likes will also comfort her.

6. What types of toys does Qiu Yan like to play with?

Bright color toys, doll that makes noise, especially likes to put on and take off clothes for her doll.

7. What size clothing is Qiu Yan wearing now?

Underclothes: 60cm; Outfit: shirt 39cm, pants 50cm

8. It appears as if Qiu Yan has crossed eyes in some of her photos. Does she have any issues with her eyes?

Her eyes has no problem. Maybe it was because of the angle.

9. Could we please have some recent photos and possibly a video of Qiu Yan?

Yes, see attachment

10. Please tell Qiu Yan that her Mommy and Papa love her so very much, and cannot wait to hug her, cuddle her, and put beautiful bows in her hair!

Yes, we will. We request our staff tells her that her parents are coming to get her soon often. Her daddy and mommy misses Yan (Her nickname) very much. We also show her pictures and introduce family members to her to prepare the child, help the transition.

11. Her updated measurements:

Height: 96cm; Weight: 11kg; Foot: 16cm.