Well this was a day that we had only two things scheduled. Our guides were headed to the American consulate for our visa application appointment. It would be here that if there were anything wrong it would show up. Since this part was vital to us going home Gui Lan ordered all of us to stay in our rooms from 10 am to noon. That way if they needed us for anything she could be sure to get us. We felt as if we were under house arrest. Well noon came and no phone call from Gui Lan, all is good.
Later that night, we shared a group dinner at the restaurant in the Holiday Inn. The food was not the best but it was nice sharing the 2nd to last night with the group. By this time we were all in "going home mode".
Friday, December 25, 2009
Sunday December 13th
Today was another day that there was not much going on. We had a scheduled tour to the "Six Bayon Temple". It is tradition that adoptive families receive a blessing during a ceremony here. We decided why not and had Tianna blessed. Two other families did as well. Tianna was funny because Laura was holding her while on her knees during the blessing. She pointed down. She went down on her knees too just like us. I think she really enjoyed the bell that the Buddist was ringing. The tour was some what quick because there was not much to see, but it did make for some good picture spots.
Later this night three families met for dinner at the Pizza Hut near the holiday inn. It would mark the 2nd of three times eating there. The food was very good. In total we had 13 people have dinner. It was kinda funny seeing all these Americans with Chinese babies take over a Pizza Hut. During dinner I snapped some more pictures and caught one of the funniest ones. It shows Tianna and Laura drinking from mugs and the expression on Tiannas face looks likes she is saying "Bar keeper give me another "
Later this night three families met for dinner at the Pizza Hut near the holiday inn. It would mark the 2nd of three times eating there. The food was very good. In total we had 13 people have dinner. It was kinda funny seeing all these Americans with Chinese babies take over a Pizza Hut. During dinner I snapped some more pictures and caught one of the funniest ones. It shows Tianna and Laura drinking from mugs and the expression on Tiannas face looks likes she is saying "Bar keeper give me another "
Saturday December 12th
This was the BIG day, it seemed like there were many big days. This was the day we were to get the results back from Tiannas TB test. 4 of the families headed to the Medical exam office. Toms family did not have to go as there daughter is under 2 and had it on Thursday. It was at this time we met back with Sandra and Dan and there new daughter. Also there older son Dan Jr flew in late on Sunday by himself as we met him for the 1st time.
Mary, the 5th family also was in on this exam trip. She was with us in Beijing as well with Sandra and Dan. Also Gui Lan Zong, our tour guide flew in the night before. When we got to the exam office is looked like a mad house. Kids, parents and guides all over the place. We waited for a little while and then us and Veronika got called in to go over our daughters results. We were up 1st and my fears came true, Tianna test positive on the skin test. Admittedly I was flipping mad inside.
Now I wanted some answers, our local guide Wensi said " we need to give Tianna a chest x-ray". I wanted to know what will happen to my daughter if this shows up positive. No one could give me any type of an answer. Fearing the worse I called for Gui Lan to come over to figure out what was going on. Laura could see that the "Big guy" was gonna explode.
Well after I paid the 200 yen fee for the x-ray, which BTW Tianna thought was fun, it all came out negative. Tianna was fine and we would be okay to leave on the 17th. Another thank you to God goes here.
Funny though, Laura reminded me later on that Tianna had received a TB shot in the orphanage, so of course she would show positive on the skin test. Anyways all is good.
Mary, the 5th family also was in on this exam trip. She was with us in Beijing as well with Sandra and Dan. Also Gui Lan Zong, our tour guide flew in the night before. When we got to the exam office is looked like a mad house. Kids, parents and guides all over the place. We waited for a little while and then us and Veronika got called in to go over our daughters results. We were up 1st and my fears came true, Tianna test positive on the skin test. Admittedly I was flipping mad inside.
Now I wanted some answers, our local guide Wensi said " we need to give Tianna a chest x-ray". I wanted to know what will happen to my daughter if this shows up positive. No one could give me any type of an answer. Fearing the worse I called for Gui Lan to come over to figure out what was going on. Laura could see that the "Big guy" was gonna explode.
Well after I paid the 200 yen fee for the x-ray, which BTW Tianna thought was fun, it all came out negative. Tianna was fine and we would be okay to leave on the 17th. Another thank you to God goes here.
Funny though, Laura reminded me later on that Tianna had received a TB shot in the orphanage, so of course she would show positive on the skin test. Anyways all is good.
Friday December 11th
Today was for the most part an uneventful day. There was nothing scheduled for us so we hooked up with Tom and Dawns family and headed back to the White Swan for some shopping and another meal at Lucys.
Across from the White Swan are plenty of stores with out side tables set up to sell there merchandise. I got a lot of fun out of these stores as it was a game to see just how low they would go down from there original asking price for there stuff. This one store gave me a price of 620 Yen ( which is about 90 USD ) with in a couple of minutes I had him down to 225.
The three of us had a quite night as far as dinner goes. We were a bit excited knowing that the rest of our group was flying in tonight and we would all be together for the 1st time.
Across from the White Swan are plenty of stores with out side tables set up to sell there merchandise. I got a lot of fun out of these stores as it was a game to see just how low they would go down from there original asking price for there stuff. This one store gave me a price of 620 Yen ( which is about 90 USD ) with in a couple of minutes I had him down to 225.
The three of us had a quite night as far as dinner goes. We were a bit excited knowing that the rest of our group was flying in tonight and we would all be together for the 1st time.
December 10th
December 10th was another big day for us as it would mark the day for Tianna's medical exam. ALL children must go through a medical exam before leaving China. Also for children over 2 years of age all must have a TB test. The TB test part made me very nervous. There have been cases where a child turns up positive for TB and must go back to the orphanage until they are cleared up. I could not begin to imagine how that would be if this happened for Tianna.
The morning we met Veronika and her new daughter in the lobby. Veronika was with is in Beijing and we left there the same day. We also met up with a 5th family that began there trip in Hong Kong. Dawn and Thomas and there three kids and new daughter. The three families were headed for about a 15 min walk to the medical building for the test.
Getting through the maze of street vendors was interesting. As we walk through there I really thought just how lucky we were to live in the USA. There are people trying to make a living selling dog food on the side of a street.
Tianna was not to happy with the exam, she cried and cried. It only got worse when we did the TB test. They had to stick her with a needle. It was at this time when Laura and I both felt we had become parents as we FELT Tianna's pain. She hurt we hurt.
The rest of the day was to ourselves and we ate lunch at a western style outdoor restaurant "Lucys" right near the White Swan. It was here that we are Bacon Cheeseburgers and fries. It was also here where I almost lost it with the China locals. Tianna woke up early from a nap to have lunch, she was not happy and cried and cried. Its bad enough that I now have a screaming child with me in public but now I have to have a table of three Chinese people just staring at us. It is customary to admire the adopted child when they are seen with there new parents in public. But this almost put me over the edge. Laura was surprise that I kept my cool. But I kept telling myself "we are leaving soon".
The morning we met Veronika and her new daughter in the lobby. Veronika was with is in Beijing and we left there the same day. We also met up with a 5th family that began there trip in Hong Kong. Dawn and Thomas and there three kids and new daughter. The three families were headed for about a 15 min walk to the medical building for the test.
Getting through the maze of street vendors was interesting. As we walk through there I really thought just how lucky we were to live in the USA. There are people trying to make a living selling dog food on the side of a street.
Tianna was not to happy with the exam, she cried and cried. It only got worse when we did the TB test. They had to stick her with a needle. It was at this time when Laura and I both felt we had become parents as we FELT Tianna's pain. She hurt we hurt.
The rest of the day was to ourselves and we ate lunch at a western style outdoor restaurant "Lucys" right near the White Swan. It was here that we are Bacon Cheeseburgers and fries. It was also here where I almost lost it with the China locals. Tianna woke up early from a nap to have lunch, she was not happy and cried and cried. Its bad enough that I now have a screaming child with me in public but now I have to have a table of three Chinese people just staring at us. It is customary to admire the adopted child when they are seen with there new parents in public. But this almost put me over the edge. Laura was surprise that I kept my cool. But I kept telling myself "we are leaving soon".
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Thought about December 8th and 9th
December 8th was a huge day for us, it called for a return trip to the civil affairs building to do ALL the paper work and make the "donation". To say it was crazy is an under statement, we were in luck because Jackie knows all the people in the office and he made it somewhat easy to navigate through the see of parents, children and guides.
The 1st order of business was the registration, this was a moving time because after we all sign some papers and put our finger prints down on paper they lady said, "Congratulations you are now a family".
When it was time to leave we had shed most of the extra "luggage", that was my name for the $7,ooo in US cash I have been holding on to since we left for the airport.
Wednesday the 9th was the day we would leave Changsha and the Hunan area for good. I kinda felt sorry for Tianna because we were taking her from her home city for good and she has know understanding what is happening to her. I could only image if some one had down this to me. I wonder how I would feel. But Laura and I both know it is for her own good.
Tianna took her 1st plane ride tonight, it went real well and it was short, 1 hour flight to Guangho. Tianna was funny in the airport, she wanted to wear her "hello kitty" back pack, its about the same size she is. We were so looking forward to getting to the new hotel, as we knew we were catching up with one of the families we had left in Beijing and would meet a new family that started the trip from Hong Kong.
Also we knew this was the last stop before we would be allowed to GO HOME.
The 1st order of business was the registration, this was a moving time because after we all sign some papers and put our finger prints down on paper they lady said, "Congratulations you are now a family".
When it was time to leave we had shed most of the extra "luggage", that was my name for the $7,ooo in US cash I have been holding on to since we left for the airport.
Wednesday the 9th was the day we would leave Changsha and the Hunan area for good. I kinda felt sorry for Tianna because we were taking her from her home city for good and she has know understanding what is happening to her. I could only image if some one had down this to me. I wonder how I would feel. But Laura and I both know it is for her own good.
Tianna took her 1st plane ride tonight, it went real well and it was short, 1 hour flight to Guangho. Tianna was funny in the airport, she wanted to wear her "hello kitty" back pack, its about the same size she is. We were so looking forward to getting to the new hotel, as we knew we were catching up with one of the families we had left in Beijing and would meet a new family that started the trip from Hong Kong.
Also we knew this was the last stop before we would be allowed to GO HOME.
Thoughts about Dec 6th and 7th
Laura and I got into the Dolton hotel in Changsha later then we expected. We were met by our guide Jackie. Jackie is a real nice local guide who seemed very happy to be helping us during the most important time of our lives.
We got very excited when he told us that he has been in contact with Tiannas orphange and they said that Tianna is excited about having a momma and poppa. I thought it might have been tough to sleep tonight but as it was I got a good night sleep in.
Monday morning seemed to fly by, before you know it we were in the lobby waiting for Jackie to pick us up. The civil affairs building was only a couple of minutes away and shortly we would see Tianna for the 1st time. Tianna cam walking in the waiting room with a couple of nannies and her friend, who was being adopted at the same time.
It was kind of a strange moment in a good way, we had seen pictures of Tianna and she seen us and now we were face to face, I almost did not know what to do. The whole meeting last about 30 mins, we took a few pictures and it was off to returning to the hotel.
We went back to the room with Jackie and filled out some paper work, sykped with Tiannas grandparents and headed down for some lunch. Jackie stayed with us to order food for Tianna and make sure we were set up at the restaurant. The rest of the night was a get to know you session.
We got very excited when he told us that he has been in contact with Tiannas orphange and they said that Tianna is excited about having a momma and poppa. I thought it might have been tough to sleep tonight but as it was I got a good night sleep in.
Monday morning seemed to fly by, before you know it we were in the lobby waiting for Jackie to pick us up. The civil affairs building was only a couple of minutes away and shortly we would see Tianna for the 1st time. Tianna cam walking in the waiting room with a couple of nannies and her friend, who was being adopted at the same time.
It was kind of a strange moment in a good way, we had seen pictures of Tianna and she seen us and now we were face to face, I almost did not know what to do. The whole meeting last about 30 mins, we took a few pictures and it was off to returning to the hotel.
We went back to the room with Jackie and filled out some paper work, sykped with Tiannas grandparents and headed down for some lunch. Jackie stayed with us to order food for Tianna and make sure we were set up at the restaurant. The rest of the night was a get to know you session.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Some more pictures from Beijing
The first picture is of the moms and our guide, Gui Lan Zong in front of the Forbidden City.
The second picture is from the Summer Palace, in front of the marble boat.
OK - I'm a little behind...
I just found an email from Laura and Matt from December 5th, so here it is:
Hi everyone,
Matt and I are having the time of our lives here in Beijing, China. The first picture is from the hotel lobby. We're staying at the Novotel Beijing Peace Hotel. The second is from the the Great Wall. We didn't climb up Great Wall, but did climb all the way down. It was pretty rough, but it was a great experience. Gui Lan Zong is justs as amazing as everyone at New Beginnings says. She's been wonderful. Our travel mates are also quite amazing people.
Tomorrow is Sunday, and we leave for Changsha to await the first meeting with our daughter Tianna Rose. Not sure how much sleep we'll get tomorrow night, as our thoughts will be on how things will go the next few days.
That's all for now folks. We'll talk to you more once we become parents.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Laura and Matt have Tianna Rose!
Gotcha Day has come and gone, and Tianna Rose has been joined with her Mommy and Daddy. I have not heard from Laura and Matt personally since the last update, but they did have someone post some photos to their Facebook pages. Out of respect to them, I can't put them up here without their permission. So if you are one of their Facebook Friends, pop over to their pages to see their beautiful new daughter Tianna Rose.
Congratulations to the Balkam Family!!
Congratulations to the Balkam Family!!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Laura and Matt are in Beijing
Hi Everyone. I'm Teresa, a friend of Laura and Matt's. They unfortunately can't access their blog due to the "Great FireWall of China" (the Chinese government blocks many news, social networking and blogging sites). So I will be posting reports and photos from them periodically.
I got a brief email from Laura last night at about 7:50pm Eastern:
We are in Beijing. So far everything is going great. We are sitting in the lobby of our hotel watching the rush hour traffic. Seems strange knowing it's evening there. lol
They're sightseeing over the first few days and will be meeting their lovely daughter Tianna Rose soon.
I'll post again when I hear from Laura and Matt. Take care!
I got a brief email from Laura last night at about 7:50pm Eastern:
We are in Beijing. So far everything is going great. We are sitting in the lobby of our hotel watching the rush hour traffic. Seems strange knowing it's evening there. lol
They're sightseeing over the first few days and will be meeting their lovely daughter Tianna Rose soon.
I'll post again when I hear from Laura and Matt. Take care!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Itinerary...12/2 to 12/17
Dec. 2 Flying out of Newark
Dec. 3 Arriving in Beijing. Hotel Novotel Peace Hotel
Dec. 4 BA Da Ling Greatwall, Jade Factory
Dec. 5 Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square
Dec. 6 Beijing flight to Changsha. Dolton Hotel
Dec. 7 GOTCHA DAY: Meet Tianna Rose at the Civil Affairs. Sign agreement.
Dec. 8 Adoption registration, notary and apply for passport.
Dec. 9 Half day tour of Yue Lu Villa, Fly from Changsha to Guangzhou. Shi Fu Holiday Inn.
Dec.10 Skin test in Guangzhou
Dec.11 Get result of test
Dec.12 Medical with other families
Dec.13 Half day tour to Six Banyan Temple
Dec.14 Visa appointment at 10:00
Dec.15 Pearl River Cruise. Oath at Consulate
Dec.16 Get Visa in the afternoon.
Dec.17 Fly to Shanghai, and then back to Newark Airport, NJ. USA
Dec. 3 Arriving in Beijing. Hotel Novotel Peace Hotel
Dec. 4 BA Da Ling Greatwall, Jade Factory
Dec. 5 Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square
Dec. 6 Beijing flight to Changsha. Dolton Hotel
Dec. 7 GOTCHA DAY: Meet Tianna Rose at the Civil Affairs. Sign agreement.
Dec. 8 Adoption registration, notary and apply for passport.
Dec. 9 Half day tour of Yue Lu Villa, Fly from Changsha to Guangzhou. Shi Fu Holiday Inn.
Dec.10 Skin test in Guangzhou
Dec.11 Get result of test
Dec.12 Medical with other families
Dec.13 Half day tour to Six Banyan Temple
Dec.14 Visa appointment at 10:00
Dec.15 Pearl River Cruise. Oath at Consulate
Dec.16 Get Visa in the afternoon.
Dec.17 Fly to Shanghai, and then back to Newark Airport, NJ. USA
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Thoughts about the future
Well here Laura and I sit, listening to "Toddler Tunes" and thinking about just how fortunate we are that in 10 days we will be heading to China to begin the Journey of a life time. I think now things are setting in. I look at Tianna's pictures and think that in such a short time we will get to hold her and begin a new life. The excitement in the family is really building.
I looked into Tianna's soon to be bedroom and it is filled with trip "stuff". We are getting things together. This has been a challenge, but with the help of friends who have gone to China it has helped to make this some what easier.
Thats all for now, and since it is now Sunday we can say that, "we are going to China next week"...
Later folks
Matt
I looked into Tianna's soon to be bedroom and it is filled with trip "stuff". We are getting things together. This has been a challenge, but with the help of friends who have gone to China it has helped to make this some what easier.
Thats all for now, and since it is now Sunday we can say that, "we are going to China next week"...
Later folks
Matt
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
We're going to China...we're booked.
Doings of November 15th and 16th.
Laura and I have been waiting for almost a week for our CA to come in. Thats the consulate appointment. When this comes in then we can book our flghts. Well it should have been in by the end of the week and is was not. Needless to say we are getting concerned.
Laura and I watched tv last night and while catching up on 24 there is was, an e-mail from Pauline at NB stating the CA was in, we can now book our flights.
November 16th, today after a few phone calls back and forth with Continetal airlines I finally booked out flghts to China. We will be leaving on December 2nd from Newark, in to Beijing. Then on December 17th we will fly from Shanghai to Newark. We will land at about 6:30 and by the time we get out of customs we should be heading home around 8pm.
It will make for a looooooooong night but well worth it.
Laura and I have been waiting for almost a week for our CA to come in. Thats the consulate appointment. When this comes in then we can book our flghts. Well it should have been in by the end of the week and is was not. Needless to say we are getting concerned.
Laura and I watched tv last night and while catching up on 24 there is was, an e-mail from Pauline at NB stating the CA was in, we can now book our flights.
November 16th, today after a few phone calls back and forth with Continetal airlines I finally booked out flghts to China. We will be leaving on December 2nd from Newark, in to Beijing. Then on December 17th we will fly from Shanghai to Newark. We will land at about 6:30 and by the time we get out of customs we should be heading home around 8pm.
It will make for a looooooooong night but well worth it.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
News from 11/04/2009
Well folks, I called the USCIS office today and they told me that our paper work for the extension is done and being mailed out today. So that is it ALL the paper work is done. Now its up to Pauline to make the dates and we can book the flights. It looks like December 2nd as the travel day. After almost 4 years of waiting the trip is upon us.
Monday, November 2, 2009
The Waiting .....
So here we are at the start of a new month. I believe I can say it this month with nearly 100% certainty that we will be traveling next month ( December ). October brought us the TA ( Travel Approval) now all we are waiting on is the extension of our approval from the US Immigration service. As it looks now we might be traveling either December 2nd or the 9th.
The 9th presents an interesting scenario, if we leave on the 9th our expected return day would be the 24th. However there is a strong chance we would not make our connecting flight from either Hong Kong or Beijing. So we would be forced to stay the night of the 24th in China. The flights back to the USA from China on the 25th are about $1,000 more expensive. So, it looks like we would also spend the 25th in China and fly home on the 26th.
But as one thing we learned in this process, things change week to week and Laura and I have no control over it.
Anyway here's to hearing some good news about travel date....SOOOOOON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And as the "Philosopher" T. Petty once said "The Waiting is the Hardest Part"
The 9th presents an interesting scenario, if we leave on the 9th our expected return day would be the 24th. However there is a strong chance we would not make our connecting flight from either Hong Kong or Beijing. So we would be forced to stay the night of the 24th in China. The flights back to the USA from China on the 25th are about $1,000 more expensive. So, it looks like we would also spend the 25th in China and fly home on the 26th.
But as one thing we learned in this process, things change week to week and Laura and I have no control over it.
Anyway here's to hearing some good news about travel date....SOOOOOON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And as the "Philosopher" T. Petty once said "The Waiting is the Hardest Part"
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Toddler Shower
This past Sunday, some of the families from the FCC (family with children from China) group through a Toddler Shower for me. It was such a beautiful shower. I was shocked and bewildered. I had such tears of joy that day. The table was beautiful. Set up so nicely. It was so nice seeing everyone there and I was so filled with gratitude.
Everyone was so wonderful in planning it out. Matt and a good time tricking me too.
He took me shopping over at the Tanger Outlets. Then, we had plans to have lunch with his friend Dave and his wife Candace. But, that wasn't who was having lunch with us. It was some of FCC, a few friends from Church, Matt's parents and my aunt and uncle. It was wonderful.
It's great having the support of our Adoption friends and our friends in choir. Our Adoption friends know and understand everything we're going through in regards to adopting and waiting for china. Our friends from Church were there through everything from the Fertility Treatments, the miscarriages and now the wonderful journey to China.
My mother-in-law and father-in-law have also been through everything with us. I'm not sure what we'd do without their support. WIthout their help, we would never even have a chance to adopt. They are both as happy as we are about Tianna coming home.
I was so happy on Sunday. I think I was glowing. Oh, right. I'm pregnant...PAPER pregnant. Tianna is coming home soon. Yippeee.
Oh, of course, I need to mention how much I love Matt. Side by side, we go on this wonderful journey, together. We're eachothers best friends. We have total communication and we're totally devoted to each other. What more can I ask for?
Everyone was so wonderful in planning it out. Matt and a good time tricking me too.
He took me shopping over at the Tanger Outlets. Then, we had plans to have lunch with his friend Dave and his wife Candace. But, that wasn't who was having lunch with us. It was some of FCC, a few friends from Church, Matt's parents and my aunt and uncle. It was wonderful.
It's great having the support of our Adoption friends and our friends in choir. Our Adoption friends know and understand everything we're going through in regards to adopting and waiting for china. Our friends from Church were there through everything from the Fertility Treatments, the miscarriages and now the wonderful journey to China.
My mother-in-law and father-in-law have also been through everything with us. I'm not sure what we'd do without their support. WIthout their help, we would never even have a chance to adopt. They are both as happy as we are about Tianna coming home.
I was so happy on Sunday. I think I was glowing. Oh, right. I'm pregnant...PAPER pregnant. Tianna is coming home soon. Yippeee.
Oh, of course, I need to mention how much I love Matt. Side by side, we go on this wonderful journey, together. We're eachothers best friends. We have total communication and we're totally devoted to each other. What more can I ask for?
Travel Approval
Matthew Balkam On Wednesday I received in my hand the copy of our TA ( Travel Aproval ) from China. It seemed some what unreal. The TA for lack of a better word is HUGE..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is China saying "Ok you can come into our country and get your chi...ld" The TA is what every future parent is striving for, and we got it.
Now all we need is the paper work from the USCIS office in Manhattan. That is the US side saying "Ok now go get your child". Its kinda stupid this whole process but it makes sense, I think.
So we are now looking at a travel date of the last week of November to the 1st two weeks of December. There is a strong possibility would could be in China near or during Christmas. As much as I hate the idea of not being home for Christmas, this is the ONLY reason I can think of to be away from home. I mean we are bringing our daughter home to family and friends who are so excited to meet Tianna.
Well thats all for now folks. Hope to have more news soon,
Matt
Now all we need is the paper work from the USCIS office in Manhattan. That is the US side saying "Ok now go get your child". Its kinda stupid this whole process but it makes sense, I think.
So we are now looking at a travel date of the last week of November to the 1st two weeks of December. There is a strong possibility would could be in China near or during Christmas. As much as I hate the idea of not being home for Christmas, this is the ONLY reason I can think of to be away from home. I mean we are bringing our daughter home to family and friends who are so excited to meet Tianna.
Well thats all for now folks. Hope to have more news soon,
Matt
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Lifebook
I started a lifebook for Tianna last night. It's only going include things up until we meet her in China. So, the referral pictures, medical information from when she was One, the pre-approval e-mail from New Beginnings, the pictures of the packages we sent through Red Thread and the first letter I wrote my daughter. It's a small book with Mickey Mouse on the cover.
We found two pictures on the ZZ website (yahoo group for those adopting from Zhouzou orphanage) that have a little girl in them that look like it could be Tianna. The pictures were taken last summer (2008), so Tianna would be 2 1/2. So, right now, we're trying to confirm one way or the other. If they are Tianna, of course I'll print those up and put them in the book as well.
I spent Monday washing her clothes and putting them in her dresser. Yes, I know I have plenty of time, but when time gets closer, I'll have papers due and Final exams to prepare for before we head to China.
Tianna's dresser is completely filled with 3T and 4T clothes. She's set. I can't wait until she gets home. The wait is getting worse. We're praying to get her home before Christmas. We are still waiting for our Travel Approval from China. It's been a month of waiting for the approval and are hoping to receive it soon. Waiting to find out when we'll meet our daughter.
That's it for now.
We found two pictures on the ZZ website (yahoo group for those adopting from Zhouzou orphanage) that have a little girl in them that look like it could be Tianna. The pictures were taken last summer (2008), so Tianna would be 2 1/2. So, right now, we're trying to confirm one way or the other. If they are Tianna, of course I'll print those up and put them in the book as well.
I spent Monday washing her clothes and putting them in her dresser. Yes, I know I have plenty of time, but when time gets closer, I'll have papers due and Final exams to prepare for before we head to China.
Tianna's dresser is completely filled with 3T and 4T clothes. She's set. I can't wait until she gets home. The wait is getting worse. We're praying to get her home before Christmas. We are still waiting for our Travel Approval from China. It's been a month of waiting for the approval and are hoping to receive it soon. Waiting to find out when we'll meet our daughter.
That's it for now.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Red Thread
We got an message from Ann at Red Thread (since we put an order in last week for a package for Tianna). Ann is a wonderful woman who works (or may even own) Red Thread. She can get us updates on Tianna. We asked about Tiannas hearing and her eating (since she's got the cleft palete). Ann says that Tianna is eating normal foods (rice and vegetables). Tianna doesn't have any hearing problems. That's all we really know so far. We were hoping for more pictures, but we're lucky to at least get more information. We're making a list of questions to ask once we're there. Like, what will sooth her when she's upset?
I'm quiet excited about the room. I hope she likes the Disney Princesses. Everything is Disney Princesses.
Matt picked up a Disney princess Etch a Sketch and toy cell phone. He really loves buying Tianna things, just like his parents do.
Everything is quiet as far as travel dates and things. CCAA will reopen on Monday. Hurray.
Hope everyone has a great weekend.
Laura
I'm quiet excited about the room. I hope she likes the Disney Princesses. Everything is Disney Princesses.
Matt picked up a Disney princess Etch a Sketch and toy cell phone. He really loves buying Tianna things, just like his parents do.
Everything is quiet as far as travel dates and things. CCAA will reopen on Monday. Hurray.
Hope everyone has a great weekend.
Laura
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Thoughts to ponder for 10/7/09
Well here Laura and I sit keeping busy with stuff, while are thoughts are in China. I never imagine just how hard this wait would be until it was here. We are listening to "Toddler Tunes" on TV. Perhaps thats not a good idea. But now that our daughter has a face, a smile, and a name its harder to let each day go by with out her. We feel like we are being robbed as each day goes by.
But I guess we just have to wait our turn. We did make a new friend in Colorado who is addopting from the same Orphanage that our daughter is at. She maybe heading there before us.
Any ways folks, thats all
Matt
But I guess we just have to wait our turn. We did make a new friend in Colorado who is addopting from the same Orphanage that our daughter is at. She maybe heading there before us.
Any ways folks, thats all
Matt
Monday, October 5, 2009
The Bed
On Saturday Tianna's bed arrived. It was a gift from Grandma and Grandpa. It is big but I do think our little girl will love it. I really love the pull out desk idea. Grandma and Grandpa got to see it Sunday and approved. So the room is now ready, expect for one little item. Theres a little girl in China who still needs to see it.
Anyways October is here and CCAA is closed. Still have to wait another week for any more updates. Untill then talk with you all later.
Matt
Anyways October is here and CCAA is closed. Still have to wait another week for any more updates. Untill then talk with you all later.
Matt
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
This and That from Sept 30th
Well I guess I am happy September is just about over, it means October is upon us and we can say that we will get out daughter NEXT MONTH. I purchased a Little Tykes outdoor play house for Tianna today off of Craigslist. It was a great deal and well worth the $15 bucks I paid for it. But the guy who I bought it off of was a PUTZ. And thats about all I want to say about that.
We went to K-mart tonight to look at stuff for Tianna's room, and I found the finishing touches. Two nicely framed pictures from the Disney Princess collections. They fit nicely on either side of the window.
I have my eye on two others but I am not sure if I want to spend the money. But who am I kidding, I will end up buying them on Saturday.
We did our finger printing today with the USCIS in Hicksville, its a division of the Department of Home Land Security. It sounds more important then it really is. But it did mark the last time we will have to do these stupid finger prints. YEAH
Oh and I also figured out how to add more then 1 photo to this blog. That is one battle I won tonight.
Well its 23:16 hours, October is 44 mins away. This wait is gonna kill me.
Later folks
Matt
We went to K-mart tonight to look at stuff for Tianna's room, and I found the finishing touches. Two nicely framed pictures from the Disney Princess collections. They fit nicely on either side of the window.
I have my eye on two others but I am not sure if I want to spend the money. But who am I kidding, I will end up buying them on Saturday.
We did our finger printing today with the USCIS in Hicksville, its a division of the Department of Home Land Security. It sounds more important then it really is. But it did mark the last time we will have to do these stupid finger prints. YEAH
Oh and I also figured out how to add more then 1 photo to this blog. That is one battle I won tonight.
Well its 23:16 hours, October is 44 mins away. This wait is gonna kill me.
Later folks
Matt
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
A drag
Matt spoke with Pauline at New Beginnings yesterday. Previously, Pauline said we may be traveling November 11th, but now she's saying it look like it's going to be a few more weeks. She's waiting on a few more families to travel with us since we're the ones to pay for the tour guide (her time, her food and her hotel and travel). So, it's better to stretch it among several families than for only two families to pay for her. I'm quite disappointed as this would mean Tianna won't be here for Thanksgiving. But, we may be traveling to China Thanksgiving week.
We'll just have to be patient and wait. It's just another couple weeks that Tianna has to stay in the orphanage instead of being home with her family.
As everyone who knows me well, I'm not the most patient. I hate waiting. lol. But, I have no choice. Tianna will come home in God's time and not ours.
Tiannas room is almost ready. We just need her bed which we ordered last week.
I hope she loves the Disney Princesses. The playroom still needs alot of work since that's where we put some of the winter bins that we still need to empty out.
Yesterday, I went to Hicksville in hope of getting my finger prints done early. Figuring some of the other families have done that. But, when we got there, we found that they aren't open on Mondays. Ugh. I have to take time off tomorrow to do my finger prints. The new place seems nicer than the old one. The last two times we did finger prints, it was in an older building and the area didn't appear very safe. But the newer building seemed nice (from the outside) and safer.
Will add more when we get an update. CCAA is closed this week for holiday, so we won't get any updates until next week.
We'll just have to be patient and wait. It's just another couple weeks that Tianna has to stay in the orphanage instead of being home with her family.
As everyone who knows me well, I'm not the most patient. I hate waiting. lol. But, I have no choice. Tianna will come home in God's time and not ours.
Tiannas room is almost ready. We just need her bed which we ordered last week.
I hope she loves the Disney Princesses. The playroom still needs alot of work since that's where we put some of the winter bins that we still need to empty out.
Yesterday, I went to Hicksville in hope of getting my finger prints done early. Figuring some of the other families have done that. But, when we got there, we found that they aren't open on Mondays. Ugh. I have to take time off tomorrow to do my finger prints. The new place seems nicer than the old one. The last two times we did finger prints, it was in an older building and the area didn't appear very safe. But the newer building seemed nice (from the outside) and safer.
Will add more when we get an update. CCAA is closed this week for holiday, so we won't get any updates until next week.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tarket registry/Gratitude
Laura Silvia-Balkam wrote at 9:03am I personally had a great time last night at Target. I love those scanners. They really have some great stuff between the clothes, toys and music/DVD's. We even looked at books. It was pretty cool. I couldn't believe that we actually scanned 85 items. I day dream constantly about what life will be like once Tianna Rose comes home. I'm so excited about her. Her new grandparents are even more excited. I wish I could put to words how I feel about Matt's Mom and Dad. They are the most wonderful giving people I've ever met in my life. They've made such an impact on my life. I owe them so much and can't even begin to thank them for the wonderful things that they do. A card would never cover even 1/4 of it and I just can't put it into words. The love I feel for them is amazing. I hope that one day, they will realize the impact they do have on my life. Now, we wait for China. Maybe Nov 11th is what we were told yesterday. I'm so excited. I think Matt should just learn sign language. |
Tarket registry & Possible Travel time
Matthew Balkam wrote at 10:09pm yesterday So tonight was a fun night, we decide to go to Target and make a "Toddler" registry. Not as easy as I thought because there is a bunch of stuff we dont need. I E all the new born things. But after we were done there was about 85 items on the list. Spoke with Pauline at New Beginnings and she thinks November 11th is a safe bet for the trip, kinda makes me nervous, "7 weeks and counting". Anyways back to the Manderian , |
Friday, September 18, 2009
Updates
6:30 this morning, Matt comes into the bedroom and pulls the covers off of me. Once realizing that it was only 6:30, it hit me that we must have got news on Tianna. I jumped up so freaking fast and ran straight to the computer. There, open on the screen, were five updated pictures of Tianna. They were all taken yesterday. I couldn't believe it. She's beautiful. Oh my goodness. She is 3ft 2in tall and weighs 30.5 pounds. Sounds like she's going to be in a 3T to start with. The pictures show that she's a little spit fire. lol. Looks like she likes to model.
It's hard to put my feelings and excitement to words because there's no way I can explain my feelings. The emotions that are running inside of me. The thoughts and day dreams that go on in my head.
Now, we wait for our Travel Arrangements.
Laura
It's hard to put my feelings and excitement to words because there's no way I can explain my feelings. The emotions that are running inside of me. The thoughts and day dreams that go on in my head.
Now, we wait for our Travel Arrangements.
Laura
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Pick up and Signing the LOA
So Tuesday was a fun day. We expected to receive the LOA in the mail from New Beginnings via Express Mail. I called NB to get a tracking number for the package and they tell me the LOA is still on Paulines desk in the office. I am like "Oh great" so you know what that means. Yes I drive into Mineola to the NB office to pick up the original LOA straight from CCAA.
I then drive back to Holtzville to meet Laura at her job and have her sign it. Figure Mom and Dad would like to see the original so I stop off at there house and moms job to show them. Leave Moms office and drive back into Mineola to drop of the signed original to Tim at NB. All this in under 4 hours.
Of course when I get home the package that NB sent was there in the mailbox waiting for me to review and sign off. Also included in this was a little invoice for $ 3,530. Oh well that's the cost of doing the adoption business.
Matt 9/16/09 10:44 pm
I then drive back to Holtzville to meet Laura at her job and have her sign it. Figure Mom and Dad would like to see the original so I stop off at there house and moms job to show them. Leave Moms office and drive back into Mineola to drop of the signed original to Tim at NB. All this in under 4 hours.
Of course when I get home the package that NB sent was there in the mailbox waiting for me to review and sign off. Also included in this was a little invoice for $ 3,530. Oh well that's the cost of doing the adoption business.
Matt 9/16/09 10:44 pm
Our first package
Matt just ordered Autumn Moon cakes and had it shipped to Tianna. I wonder if she likes them. It's all so exciting. I wrote a letter to our daughter that this woman Ann from Red Thread will translate for Tianna. It was so hard to write the letter between the tears of joy.
How I've fallen completely in love with a child that I haven't met yet. I guess that's not so amazing, is it. I can't wait to hold her in my arms, smell her hair and tell her how I love her.
I guess I have to be patient though. I've already waited over 3 1/2 years, what's another couple of months. Funny thing is, we started the paperwork for China the same month/year that Tianna was born.
Next, I want to send a package with disposible cameras and a picture pillow.
How I've fallen completely in love with a child that I haven't met yet. I guess that's not so amazing, is it. I can't wait to hold her in my arms, smell her hair and tell her how I love her.
I guess I have to be patient though. I've already waited over 3 1/2 years, what's another couple of months. Funny thing is, we started the paperwork for China the same month/year that Tianna was born.
Next, I want to send a package with disposible cameras and a picture pillow.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Notification of LOA
We get home today after a day of running errands. Our agency rep, Pauline, leaves a message, "Hi its Pauline call me at home". Fear sets in that CCAA is rejecting something. I call Pauline and say "your tone of voice does not sound good". She says, "NO your LOA is in" and then utters the words "She's yours" .
After 3 years and 8 months since signing a contract with New Beginnings we are now going to become parents. Tomorrow, Tuesday, is the next big day, we will get our LOA in express mail and hopefully new pictures.
Its on to parenthood.
Matt 9/14/09 11:25 pm
After 3 years and 8 months since signing a contract with New Beginnings we are now going to become parents. Tomorrow, Tuesday, is the next big day, we will get our LOA in express mail and hopefully new pictures.
Its on to parenthood.
Matt 9/14/09 11:25 pm
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Weight/Height at 12 months
When Tianna was just under 12 months of age (as of January 08, 2007), she weighed 19.8 pounds (9kg) and was 27.6 inches (70cm). So, we can safely assume she will be a small little girl.
Tianna will be 4 years old (or almost 4) by the time we see her for the first time. We aren't sure if she will be small sizes like 2T or normal size between 3T and 4T. We found out today that China may not send us updated pictures. I hope they send an updated medical at least. Otherwise, what sizes clothes do we take with us? It'll be winter, and winter clothes is heavy.
We were told we could get our LOA (Letter of Approval) from China in about 2 weeks. Then after that, we'll get our TA (Travel Arrangement). I pray we have her in our arms by Christmas. What a wonderful Christmas gift she is (regardless of when she comes home).
Matt and I plan on sending Tianna a care package before we travel. In this care package will be a photo album of our family so that Tianna will know where she's going or who her new family will be. I'm thinking a nice teddy bear or other stuffed animal would be nice as well. Not sure what we'll send other than the album of course. Our agency recommends it. It will prepare Tianna for her new life.
Tianna will be 4 years old (or almost 4) by the time we see her for the first time. We aren't sure if she will be small sizes like 2T or normal size between 3T and 4T. We found out today that China may not send us updated pictures. I hope they send an updated medical at least. Otherwise, what sizes clothes do we take with us? It'll be winter, and winter clothes is heavy.
We were told we could get our LOA (Letter of Approval) from China in about 2 weeks. Then after that, we'll get our TA (Travel Arrangement). I pray we have her in our arms by Christmas. What a wonderful Christmas gift she is (regardless of when she comes home).
Matt and I plan on sending Tianna a care package before we travel. In this care package will be a photo album of our family so that Tianna will know where she's going or who her new family will be. I'm thinking a nice teddy bear or other stuffed animal would be nice as well. Not sure what we'll send other than the album of course. Our agency recommends it. It will prepare Tianna for her new life.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Our Daughter
Tianna Rose Balkam
DOB 1/20/06
No current pictures yet, hopefully in a few weeks.
Matt and I are so excited to announce that we are finally going to be parents.
We've been approved by China to adopt Huang Tian Na (now known as Tianna Rose Balkam).
We will keep everyone updated on travel arrangements and everything about our Journey to Tianna Rose.
DOB 1/20/06
No current pictures yet, hopefully in a few weeks.
Matt and I are so excited to announce that we are finally going to be parents.
We've been approved by China to adopt Huang Tian Na (now known as Tianna Rose Balkam).
We will keep everyone updated on travel arrangements and everything about our Journey to Tianna Rose.
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