tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60532839933646260822024-03-12T18:33:11.715-05:00The Campbells Journey of FaithThe Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-20916614160806664322012-10-10T10:20:00.001-05:002012-10-10T10:29:13.544-05:00Gotcha Day One Year Later, 2012I cannot believe we are one year out on this side of adopting! It almost doesn't seem real. To be honest it feels like almost 3 years ago that we were in China. Even when we look back and talk of all the memories from our trip, it seems like it was so much longer than 1 year. The good news is that for the first time about a week ago, I realized that it's hard to remember life before Hannah. This is SO HUGE for me because those first several months were very hard and my mind could SO easily remember my easy life before adoption. Now everything just feels so normal. It's funny how we all can look at her and not see her to be any different than us, just as though she were born into this family the same way Mark and Charles were born into our family. When I think of how God brought a child from half way across the earth and dropped her into our family (one day when I finally post her real Gotcha Day video you can see just how she really was dropped right into our lives), I am just amazed at God's greatness. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/10/1230.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/10/s_1230.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Thinking back over these last 12 months we are over joyed at all the unexpected blessings that have come our way. Most adopted children are almost 1 year behind developmentally on adoption day. Hannah has never been even 1 day behind...Let's not forget the fact that she was also considered special needs medically when we first accepted her file, and we have never had to deal with anything medical outside of checkups. Hannah knows all of her shapes, colors (both in English and Chinese), alphabet, numbers, can count to at least 10, is now learning the sounds of the alphabet and how to draw them, has excellent speech, can quote a number of books by heart, can help match up socks and PJ's from the laundry, set napkins and silverware for meals on the table, and can say some of the sweetest prayers without any prompting. I can brag this way on her because I have nothing to do with her gene pool...I only wish I had something to do with it.<br /><br />One of the things that has really flourished in the last couple of months is her love of singing. The girl's mouth NEVER stops!!!!!! She has the sweetest little Texas accent, and I could listen to her sing all day...oh wait, I do. :o) One of her favorite songs is, "God Made Me". This was never one of my favorite songs on one of our children's CD's, but when she started singing it on her own one day it brought tears to my eyes and it has now become my favorite.<br /><br />Every night when we put our kids to bed we pray with them and sing each of them a song. Each child in our house has THEIR song that we sing them EVERY night. We have switched up 3 different songs to incorporate their names in it. Hannah's song is <i>Jesus Loves The Little Children</i>. So we sing, "Jesus loves our little Hannah". She loves it! Then we always follow up everyone's song with <i>God Is So Good.</i> Last night when I was praying and singing her songs I could not hold back the tears. I was so overwhelmed with God's love for her/us, and all the blessings He has granted us through her. To think of our lives without her joyful, compassionate, sweet spirit makes me sad. Had we said, "No" to God's calling for our family we would have missed out on more things than I care to count...and that's just the ones I know of. It's been (and still can be) a very hard road, adoption always is, but one that is worth traveling. I can hardly wait to see all the blessings ahead for this child and our family as we continue on.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/10/1224.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/10/s_1224.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We have a simple celebration dinner planned for tonight. I will try and post pictures as soon as I can (since this one didn't have many). :o(<br />Happy Gotcha Day Hannah Qingchu Campbell! We all love you so much and are so thankful for how God brought you into our family one year ago today. <br />Wo ai ni (I love you in Chinese)!!!!!!<br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-88961545941302522502012-10-09T06:53:00.001-05:002012-10-09T14:51:36.107-05:00This Time Last YearIt's hard to believe we were in China this time last year leaving Beijing for Houngzhou to pick up our daughter.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/09/481.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/09/s_481.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Funny how the memories come flooding back as you prepare to celebrate this day! Tomorrow we will celebrate Hannah's "Gotcha Day"...This is the day she was born into our family. It is a day we will celebrate every year of her life, and it is one VERY MUCH worth celebrating. <br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-48704570100382063532012-10-08T20:28:00.001-05:002012-10-08T20:28:49.159-05:00Let's Go Rangers!!!Anyone who knows us knows that we love the Rangers in this house...and oh how we love these Rangers! :o)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3363.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3363.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3364.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3364.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So every week we dress up to support the cutest Rangers in Texas.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3365.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3365.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3366.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3366.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />With the cutest little cheerleader...EVER!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3367.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3367.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3368.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3368.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We sit in the stands and cheer our little hearts out for these boys.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3369.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3369.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3370.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3370.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Whether it's when Charles is up to bat.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3371.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3371.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Or Mark is running home.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3372.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3372.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We love to cheer them on...So cute to watch!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3373.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3373.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />If you are wondering where Charlie is in these photos, you have to look closer at the pitcher. The handsome Rangers coach is my husband. :o) <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3374.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3374.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Go Rangers!!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/10/08/3375.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/10/08/s_3375.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-47966891143829325942012-09-19T22:21:00.001-05:002012-09-19T22:46:27.134-05:007 Month Fly By! :(Ok, Ok, Ok!!! So it's been 7 months. The good news is that you all have gone back to having a life and seem to have conquered your addiction to our blog. You have to admit, it was a nice break...but now there is SO MUCH to cover. Some of you thought I was joking about how I plan to catch you up on things here in "Hannah's World" but I wasn't. So here ya go:<br />Hannah finally got weaned off the bottle. The funny thing about this is that I became very emotional about it...who knew! It felt so weird in the begining giving a 2 year old a bottle, but I learned along the way that it was so much more than that. We got a chance to make up for lost time together through bottle feeding. Holding, rocking, and cuddling her just like she was a baby was a sweet gift we thought we missed out on. So each member of our family took a turn with those last 4 bottles. <br />Reading to her.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3131.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3131.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Singing to her.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3132.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3132.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Cuddling her.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3133.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3133.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And even shedding a few tears over this precious time we had together.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3134.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3134.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />MOVING ON...<br />1st Easter:<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3135.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3135.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3136.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3136.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3137.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3137.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st MOTHERS DAY. This was a sweet day full of Thanks. I am so blessed!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3138.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3138.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st MEMORIAL DAY.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3139.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3139.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st REDNECK SLIP-N-SLIDE.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3140.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3140.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st RIDE AT SIX FLAGS...The girl is a thrill seeker!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3141.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3141.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st TRIP TO THE FORT WORTH ZOO...With her precious friend Myla.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3142.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3142.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />These girls are bonded for life.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3245.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3245.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3143.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3143.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3144.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3144.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FIRST TIME TO SWIM.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3145.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3145.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FIRST FIREWORKS...This terrified her. She finally warmed up at the end.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3146.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3146.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FIRST FATHERS DAY.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3147.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3147.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Hannah's card for her sweet Daddy made him cry...awww!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3148.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3148.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Whew, we're moving along now. We are caught up through June...Next! :o)<br />FOURTH OF JULY. Happy birthday America! Sweet day for her/us.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3149.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3149.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We spent this with some fun neighbors, and had the best time.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3150.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3150.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3151.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3151.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She even got excited about the fireworks when it came time. Good times!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3152.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3152.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />1st FAMILY VACATION. Road trip!!!!!! Ok, we're going to camp here awhile because there were SO MANY firsts. So here goes.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3153.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3153.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3154.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3154.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3155.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3155.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Big Texan steak restaurant in Amarillo, TX.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3156.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3156.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3157.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3157.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3158.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3158.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Breckenridge, Colorado. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3159.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3159.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We rode the ski lift to the top of the mountain...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3160.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3160.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />So we could ride the cars fast down the mountain...yes, she did it too. Just never got a picture of her and her Daddy doing this cause they beat us down the mountain. :( Maybe next time. But here is one of Mark and I at the bottom.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3161.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3161.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Here is her BRAVE brother doing it all by himself. So fun!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3162.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3162.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Then we took the gondola back up to our condo...her Daddy has a thing with heights, can you tell?<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3163.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3163.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Clearly she doesn't.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3164.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3164.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We had a donut treat for breakfast before we headed on to the next stop (this is a real treat in our house due to food allergies). She didn't really know why she was excited about what was coming, all she knew is that her brother Mark was BEYOND excited about the plate with a donut on it so she was too.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3165.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3165.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This may have been her 1st donut ever.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3166.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3166.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Welcome to the Wind River Dude Ranch in Estes Park Colorado.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3167.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3167.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We dressed up.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3168.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3168.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I wasn't kidding! We are from Texas, why does this make me laugh so hard? The really funny thing is that this is what Charlie's family looked like in EVERY photo when he was younger. Oh this one is going in a frame...LOL!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3169.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3169.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We danced in a real "Ho-down" square dance.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3170.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3170.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We played basketball.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3171.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3171.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She rode her 1st horse. She was a real rodeo queen...which made her daddy proud.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3172.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3172.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She painted a horse (get it...paint horse). :o)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3173.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3173.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We went to a real rodeo.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3174.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3174.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She saw her 1st rainbow...Awww, twins!! My boys loved this. :)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3175.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3175.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She learned to put her hand over her heart when she hears the national anthem and sees the American Flag. It brought tears to our eyes (and everyone else's) to see her with such joy and pride when she would say, "My America!"<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3176.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3176.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We drove up the Rocky Mountain national forest to take another family photo in the exact spot where we took one when we brought our boys here on their 1st vacation when they were only 5 months old. We never seem to make it over the mountain because my husband is scared of heights (to his credit it is the scariest road I have ever been on). Here's the 1st trip.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3177.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3177.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And 7 years later. Things sure have changed.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3178.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3178.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Then we all cried cause no one wanted to leave. It was the best family vacation! It was the perfect place to get away and really have some good family bonding. We look forward to the day God blesses us with another trip back here. It really was a magical place...So glad we didn't do Disney!!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3179.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3179.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='186' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Still movin...<br />WE ARE OFFICIALLY POTTY TRAINED...Thank you Jesus!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3180.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3180.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />BABY DEDICATION. We're almost caught up y'all!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3181.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3181.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We debated what she would wear for the the longest. In the end we felt that she should celebrate this day wearing her traditional Chinese dress. Yes, she lives in America now, but she is and will always be Chinese...and we wouldn't have it any other way. We even pulled out her pearl bracelet we bought her while in China. She was SO excited to be all decked out. ADORABLE!!!! <br />It's never too late to dedicate our lives to raising her in a Christ centered home. I love this picture because it shows her praying right along with us. I love her little God heart.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3182.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3182.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />These boys are so proud to be her big brothers. God is so good!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3183.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3183.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FIRST DAY OF MOTHERS DAY OUT.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3184.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3184.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This girl could not wait for this day to come.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3185.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3185.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She LOVES school!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3186.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3186.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />It helps that she has 2 wonderful teachers. :o)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3187.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3187.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sadly she has had some regression with going back to school, but it is just something she is going to go through wherever or whenever. We have come to the conclusion that when her foster family had to put her back in the orphanage those last few weeks before we got her in China, that she must have fallen asleep and when she woke up they were gone never to be seen again...SO SAD!!! <br />There have been many things that have led us to this decision, one being that the girl could hardly wait to do EVERYTHING at school except nap. Very matter of factly she will tell you, "Hannah NOT nap!" Most days she won't. Keep in mind she loves her sleep. The fear of falling asleep anywhere but home is something this poor girl has always dealt with. What's better, falling asleep only to wake with your whole world changed and missing the only family you've ever know, getting distracted for a moment only to never be able to find your family ever again, or being traumatized by being ripped from your families arms...Ugh! You just can't win for losing in this situation. :o( If I could change her past I would, instead we will just keep praying God will somehow use her past and bring healing from it.)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3188.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3188.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />LAST (that's right, we are winding down now).<br />People keep asking us about her relationship with her brothers. All I can say about this is that you would never know they have only had 11 months of bonding. The 3 of them are so close. I'm still just amazed at the love both Mark and Charles have for her and the pride they have in being her brother. Hannah will follow those boys anywhere and tries so hard to be just like them. Sometimes we just sit back and watch them play and giggle. If the boys could fit one more bed in their room I think they would insist that she sleep in their room with them. It's hard to remember back to those first several weeks after getting Hannah where she wanted NOTHING to do with either of them.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3189.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3189.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Just another blessing in this process. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3190.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3190.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Well, we did it. We are officially caught up to the present...YeeHaa! With that said, I really don't have any plans to keep this blog going forever. Just trying to get through the 1st year and/or any major events and moments that we want to keep on record...sorry! With her 1 year mark (a.k.a. Gottcha Day anniversay) coming I do have a few more things I'd like to blog, but until then we will end with this goodbye.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/19/3191.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/19/s_3191.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-47895562822798917242012-02-14T21:46:00.001-06:002012-02-14T21:46:01.073-06:00My Funny ValentineThis was Hannah's 1st Valentine's Day with our family (or ever for that matter). It was a sweet day indeed. Every year I pull out the China (by this I mean fancy plates) and dress the dinning room table with all of our best things. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3504.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3504.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The kids LOVE this!!! I make a meal and serve a chocolate fondue dessert (can you believe I found a dairy-less version). It's one of our favorite desserts as a family, and from these next few pictures you will see why we only do this as a family...LOL.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3505.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3505.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Obviously it was a hit for this little sweet tooth as well.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3506.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3506.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Every year I joke I'm going to make everyone strip to their underwear before dessert. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3507.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3507.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I don't think the Melting Pot would ever let us back in after they saw this.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3508.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3508.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Chocolate was everywhere!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3509.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3509.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Can you see the chocolate all over my husbands hand? Yep, even the grown ups enjoy themselves.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3510.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3510.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It's SO yummy, fun, and worth the mess.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3511.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3511.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we opened Valentine's Day cards. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3512.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3512.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She loves Mickey Mouse...and if you have never seen her do the "Hot Diggidy Dog" dance then you are missing out. We asked her if she could open it up, and this is what she did...every time. It was so funny!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3513.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3513.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Charles' turn.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3514.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3514.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />On to Mark.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3515.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3515.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And Charlie. I'm sure you're all wondering what's inside...Not gonna tell!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/14/3516.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/14/s_3516.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was a sweet night, on a sweet day, with my sweet family. I LOVE THIS DAY! But really, every day in the Campbell house is like Valentines Day...lots of L-O-V-E.
Happy Valentine's Day Y'all.<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-59691564039977655512012-01-10T21:21:00.001-06:002012-01-10T21:21:02.849-06:00Three Month Up-Date Post ChinaI cannot believe that 3 months ago today we met our little Hannah for the first time. Honestly it feels much longer than 3 months, and it's also starting to feel like she's been in our lives forever. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2898.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2898.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We are blown away every day at how well she has adjusted to so much so quickly. She is one smart little cookie this one, which is probably part of the reason she has adjusted so well. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2899.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2899.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The other thing that amazes us every day is just how well she has adjusted to life in general...this we know comes from the amazing care she was given from her foster family while in China. She does not seem to be delayed in any way, matter of fact she is more on the over-achiever list in some categories. This is not the normal for most children being adopted at age 2. We are SO VERY THANKFUL!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2900.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2900.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Here is a list of things Hannah is now doing that she was not when we brought her home 2 1/2 months ago.
1) She sleeps!!! Every night, all night, and when she wakes she is happy.
2) She finally refers to herself as Hannah...this just happened a couple of weeks ago. She would respond to her new name but would not even attempt to call herself by it until recently...I think she was just so confused.
3) She has more English words than we can count now. She is even putting 2 and sometimes 3 words together. Our favorite words is when one of us is leaving or going to bed...she will tell you, "La You" (love you) all by herself...so darn cute! Her new favorite word is, "Awesome"...and she knows how to use it too.
4) Hannah and her brothers are fully siblings in every way now. Right down to the sibling arguments and tattle telling. Yep, she can already tattle tell with every bit of drama and emotion her little body can conger up. You can only understand about 2 words of her blabbering jumble (like the person's name who offended her), the rest is dramatically acted out in a complete replay of the event (it sounds like she is cussing you out in Chinese...then again, maybe she is...who would really know since we failed our one and only Chinese class). This is really hard to not laugh at...sorry, but I have never seen a barely 2 year old in a one man play before. We usually completely understand what happened even though we never saw a thing. All I got to say is in the future if we play charades as a family I get Hannah on my team...we'll win every time hands down! Nonetheless, she has fully embraced them as brothers.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2901.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2901.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2902.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2902.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2903.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2903.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This is her after she let them put bows in her hair...and I mean every bow they could find. Sweet girl just sat there and let them.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2904.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2904.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And then she posed for pictures...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2905.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2905.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> and lots of them.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2906.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2906.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But I sure am glad they thought to capture the moment!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2907.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2907.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />5) She prays. This is the sweetest thing. I don't think she gets who we are praying to yet (matter of fact at Christmas she called the little baby Jesus in her nativity scene "Baby G.") but just watching her and listening to her will melt your spiritual heart.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2908.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2908.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She's thanking God for her blanket...AWWWW!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2909.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2909.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />6) She FINALLY will let us read books to her. She would let you read all day if you let her. The first couple of months she had some control issues and would not let anyone touch "her" book.
7) She is off formula...Yea! We still have the bottle to conquer, but she now drinks almond milk.
8) She cheers everyday when we drive up to pick up the boys from school, "Yea Mark and Charles", or when we drive into our driveway, "Yea home", or especially when Daddy comes home (or comes back in from checking the mail...I swear he does this on purpose), "Yea Daddy's home". Sadly, mommy is usually with her so I don't get as many cheers. :( But hey, I did survive the Texas law I had to sign requiring me to be with the internationally adopted child every minute of every day for the first 8 weeks...that was not fun...thank you Texas.
9) Since the day she turned 2 she has been going tee tee and even poo poo on the potty. She is not consistent with it yet therefore she is still in diapers...and I have no plans to push that yet, but when she asks to go I will be happy to take her. She is going to kill me for this next picture one day!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2910.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2910.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />10) She doesn't (knock on wood) have any more melt downs...just 2 year old tantrums, and she's REALLY good at them...ugh!
11) She pulls her hair out less...still working on that one.
12) She is cleaner than both my boys put together at the table and in the bathroom. Really, the girl is just a clean freak. I even heard one of the boys say, "It's good that we have Hannah cause she can clean up our rooms now"...don't worry, I dealt with that attitude. ;o)
13) She attends her own Sunday School class at church now...that means Charlie and I attend our own class and church once again...thank you Jesus!
14) She ventures through the house and plays alone (sometimes) while I'm cooking now. She use to sit on my feet...literally, right on my feet.
15) She loves camping and being outside (however she is a lot like her mommy when it comes to sleeping in a camper...we'd much rather be at home in our own beds). <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2911.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2911.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She also loves sports and can even say the word "Touchdown". This is her playing football with her brothers.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2915.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2915.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She wants to be just like them.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2916.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2916.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Everyone wants to know how her 1st Christmas went...well, let's just say I'm kind of glad it's over. I think it was all just a little too confusing to her. She did great through it all but the poor girl just didn't really know what it was all about. Can't say I blame her...When you go from seeing a dressed up Christmas cow, to a clown, to Santa all within 3 hours of each other it's got to leave one very confused.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2917.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2917.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sorry, no picture of the clown. :(<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2918.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2918.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />However, it was a sweet time together as a new family of 5. It was during this time that things finally started to feel more normal for all of us. Since we've been back from China we have had one thing after another, so it was really nice for Charlie to have some time off, the boys to be out of school, and for all of us to be in our own home finding our new normal...yea, we finally found it!
It's been a long hard 3ish months, but it has all been so worth it. We'd do it all over again in a heart beat...who knows, maybe we will.?.?
Happy New Year Peep's...It's gonna be a great one!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/10/2919.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/10/s_2919.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-15824263950149874532011-12-25T14:37:00.001-06:002011-12-25T16:41:20.843-06:00Merry 1st ChristmasMerry Christmas to all of you, from all of us. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/25/2206.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/25/s_2206.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />What a wonderful time it has been teaching our little daughter all about Christmas and the birth our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Last night's Christmas Eve service was one I will never forget...partially because it was so cute watching her try to blow out her Daddy's candle thinking it was another birthday candle. It's just been a sweet (and at times even magical) time together as a family. We have really tried to enjoy every minute of it. <br /><br />Sorry for going silent for so long on the blog, but I've had to just let a few things go for a while to keep my sanity, and to enjoy this time with my family. With that said, I am putting together a big Hannah update that I will post soon. So please check back soon! Until then...<br /><br />Merry CHRISTmas!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-66301003130262104342011-11-20T19:35:00.001-06:002011-11-20T19:35:15.387-06:00Happy 2nd Birthday HannahI started this late that night but had to make the wise choice to get some sleep. Sorry, you are just getting to read it:<br /><br />To my sweet daughter on your 2nd birthday, I know your daddy is writing you one of his famous birth letters (every child born into our family gets one) but I too wanted to tell you how lucky we all are to get to celebrate this day with you. It has been such a joy watching you grow and blossom over these last 4 weeks. I sometimes get sad that we missed out on those first 2 years, but then I have to quickly remind myself how blessed I am that I have the rest of my life to watch you grow into the amazing person God has most certainly destined you to be.<br /><br />You have been so brave over the last few weeks and have taken on so much for such a little girl. I know it has not been easy at times but you still somehow always seem to find a smile. When you do smile it's hard not to smile back! One of the many things I love about you is your great affection for people. Even people you hardly know and who can't seem to respect your space, you just seem to handle it all so well for having been through so much. Getting to be on the receiving side of all your sweet hugs, kisses, and even spit baths (this is something they do in China...and yes, she uses real spit on me) is such a treat every day.<br /><br />I know we still have a long road ahead, but I promise you we will walk it together...forever...as a family. You are so loved! Happy Birthday Hannah!<br /><br />Now for the fun part...PICTURES!!!<br /><br />We decided to not do a big party and instead decided to keep it low key...very low key. We got all dressed up and went out to dinner to a place we knew SHE would love, P.F. Chang's. Just our immediate family and Kevin and Amanda Dearing...the old China gang was back together again, and it was a fun, laid back, comfortable night of celebrating this sweet little girl's big day.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2821.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2821.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2822.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2822.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2825.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2825.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2826.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2826.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2827.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2827.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We ate.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2828.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2828.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2829.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2829.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We played.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2833.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2833.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2834.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2834.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2835.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2835.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2836.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2836.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We partied.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2837.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2837.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2838.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2838.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2839.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2839.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2840.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2840.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2841.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2841.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2842.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2842.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2843.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2843.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We each gave a gift.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2844.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2844.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2845.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2845.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2846.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2846.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2847.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2847.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2848.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2848.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />(While in China we bought a few things to set aside for future birthdays...tonight's was a pair of traditional Chinese pajamas)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2849.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2849.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And we danced with balloons.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2850.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2850.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was a great night, but like all good things they must come to an end. So we packed up and headed home.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2851.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2851.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />One of the best gifts of the night was waiting for us at home in our mailbox...Hannah's certificate of citizenship. :o)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2853.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2853.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />What a perfect ending to a perfect day. Goodnight!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2854.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2854.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sleep tight.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2855.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2855.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Don't let the bed bugs bite.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2857.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2857.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />See you in the morning light.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/20/2858.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/20/s_2858.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Can't wait to do it all over again next year.<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-62976645698580235552011-11-16T21:55:00.001-06:002011-11-16T21:55:05.235-06:00Our 1st Post Placement VisitI cannot believe it's been a month since our gotcha day! Sometimes it seems like 3 months and then other times I feel like we just got home. So, at the one month mark everyone now (thanks to the new China law that JUST passed) has to have the first of 3 post placement visits. It used to be 1 visit at 6 months and that was it. This is a real whip cause it has been so crazy with just getting over jet lag, finding a new normal (if anyone out there knows where I can find one, PLEASE let me know), all the doctor appointments, Hannah's birthday (tomorrow), the coming holidays, and now another Home Study...come on people, give me a break! We skipped Halloween, don't think I won't skip buying presents for everyone at Christmas this year too (and my love language is gifts if that tells you anything...I'm just kidding about not buying gifts...No I'm not).<br /><br />So today was just a bunch of questions my foggy brain could not answer, 1) How much did she weigh and what was her head circumference in China...I don't know because it was a crazy place and I didn't think to ask, 2) How much did she weigh and what was her head circumference at yesterday's hospital visit...again, no one told me to remember those details. This is our 3rd child, can you tell? 3) What did we think of our registration experience in China...Ummm, when was that??? Basically, we should have been given a heads up on what China expected of this 1st visit before we left so we would be more aware of details as we went along. I just thought it was going to be a time to make sure she is happy, adjusting to life in our family, and making sure all her needs were being met...NOT! Don't get me wrong, she was full of those questions too, I just wasn't prepared for the detailed questions. Just kept sittin there thinking, "I sure wish she'd just ask me about our sex life"...anything I might know something about. So now I have homework...I hate homework!<br /><br />The good news is that I love our HS agent, and she was so nice to not look at us with a "Poor child has these crazy brainless people as parents" look...even though she was probably thinking it...Hi Jenna!<br /><br />I guess I should stop blogging and get on that homework now, or wrap a birthday gift for tomorrow. I can't believe tomorrow is her big day! We have a lot of celebrating to do tomorrow, for many reasons!<br /><br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-54916638502883628602011-11-15T22:14:00.001-06:002011-11-15T22:14:27.939-06:00Hannah's HeartI cannot tell you how excited we are to tell you that God has answered our prayers and has healed Hannah's heart. The Doctors exact words were, "Her heart is completely normal, the hole has closed 100%, and she never has to come back here again". That's when Charlie and I look at each other with big tears in our eyes and say, "Wow, that's AMAZING!!!" That is just like our God...when He does something He does it big. We walked into that office with a "special needs" child, and came out with a "healthy" child. <br /><br />Hannah did great going without food all morning, she never even cried. We got to the hospital around 10:30 am and by 11 they were already running tests. 1st all the vitals. Next stop a couple of X-rays...Why do they always make the parent do the dirty work???<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/15/3353.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/15/s_3353.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> Then they began the medicine to try and sedate her (key word "try"). We learned she does not sedate easily...at all! She was just as happy as she could be when she should have been knocked out cold. Cute and frustrating all at the same time. All she wanted to do was kiss everyone. So the Dr. gave her another drug to help...now she's just flat out angry! 15-20 minutes later the nurse had to call the Dr. again because the girl is so stubborn and refuses to sleep...ugh! I am not kidding when I say she fell asleep 5 seconds before the Dr. walked in...thank you Jesus! :o) The doctor told us we will always have to warn future doctors when needing to be put her under about her sedation issue.<br /><br />Now she is FINALLY ready for her echogram. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/15/3354.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/15/s_3354.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> It was really sweet of God to give us a chance to hear and see her heart beat. This is usually something we adoptive parents miss out on because we did not get the chance to carry them in our womb and have that sonogram moment...it was a really sweet moment. <br /><br />Then a new group of ladies came in to do her EKG, but somebody flipped on the lights and our sweet sleeping angel woke to 3 of us holding her down with wires stuck ALL OVER her...now she's a screamin demon. With all the trauma she has had in the last 2 months, this is the last thing she needs to deal with. Thankfully everyone agreed and decided to skip the EKG test...whew!<br /><br />That's when we were escorted back to our room for the amazing news of Hannah's perfect little heart. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/15/3355.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/15/s_3355.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Wow, what a day! Really, what a year! I am so thankful that God placed on our hearts to adopt a child with a medical need, cause if He didn't we never would have met our precious (healthy) little girl that we have now.<br /><br />She has no clue what really went on today but one day we look forward to sharing each and every miracle moment of this journey with her...over and over again. Not sure what God has planned for this little girl, but what a testimony she has already. <br /><br />"Thank you God for answering all of our prayers and healing Hannah's heart, may we all use this gift to glorify you."<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-13862918813544481322011-11-11T21:09:00.001-06:002011-11-11T21:09:17.592-06:001st Medical Up-DateHannah had her 1st big medical appointment at the children's hospital this last Tuesday in Dallas (thank you for praying). We were there for a whopping 3 hrs. and 15 minutes...that's a long time to be poked on 3 times, stripped down twice, shuffled from room to room, and expected to perform on command. But hey, Hannah did really well through it all. But we were both so ready to get out of there.<br /><br />We don't really have any answers after all that cause we have to wait for the blood work and other tests to come back. And we have to come back next Tuesday to have her sedated to put her through the heart test...UGH! We should know more after next week's test. <br /><br />The only thing we do know is that she is REALLY skinny, well bonded to her parents for it being so early, seems to be smart with a big personality, and all the sleepless nights are normal...Really, 3 hrs. and 15 minutes later that's all we got...I should be a doctor. :) Honestly, it was good to hear all the things we already knew from someone who has been seeing adoptive kids like her for awhile now. However, I am really excited about getting to the bottom of her heart condition. We have been praying for this little heart and for the hole to close on its own for some time now. I am really praying we are given a clean bill of health and she will not have to have surgery. It would be nice to walk out of that hospital next Tuesday knowing we will never have to come back. My God is big enough to do just that. I'll keep you all posted with her diagnosis as soon as I can.<br /><br />Now for a few pictures of our little princes:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2670.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2670.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This girl can put away some food. She is not all that picky for being almost 2. I was a little worried at first because she seemed to have a very sensitive gag reflex and would spit ANYTHING too chunky back out, but that is so much better now. We also learned she liked everything hot...and I mean everything...really hot. Now she is even learning to eat cold things. We are so very thankful for her HUGE appetite!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2671.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2671.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She is also VERY independent and insists on feeding herself.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2672.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2672.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But even that is getting better.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2673.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2673.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> The girl loves to play outside and it was a beautiful day to do so.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2674.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2674.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sometimes you just have to stop to smell the flowers.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2675.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2675.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Just like her Mama, she loves flowers.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2676.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2676.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Oooh, so pretty!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2677.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2677.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was a good/happy moment...so we took lots of pictures.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2678.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2678.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She loves her babies!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2679.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2679.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A little milk for baby...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2680.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2680.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A little milk for Hannah. :)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2681.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2681.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Dancing with one of her babies.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2682.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2682.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />If there is music on, she is dancing...it's SO STINKIN CUTE!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2683.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2683.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />That's all for now...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/11/2684.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/11/s_2684.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Thanks for stopping by. <br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-47834538678662306242011-11-04T21:02:00.001-05:002011-11-04T21:02:57.681-05:00Our "Conspicuous" Family<br />So the other night my dear sweet friend and former baby sitter Claire had arranged to come and take our boys out of their misery by taking them to the pumpkin patch. Sadly this is something we have always done for our boys, every year we have a sweet family photo of our perfect little family surrounded by lots of big pumpkins...well, not this year. :( With all the changes in our newest child's life we did not feel it was a good idea to expose her to the masses of people (some who would be dressed up in some crazy costumes...what is this world coming to y'all) and force her to sit through one of my famous prop-up the camera family photo shoots (the boys hate these moments too...all 3 of them). <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3012.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3012.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3013.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3013.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3014.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3014.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So, Claire once again came to our rescue.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3015.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3015.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />BTW, for those of you who are wondering (and you are probably not but I'm going to tell you anyway), this gift of time with our kids is right up there with someone bringing us a meal...maybe better. Not that we don't love our 2 bio kids (cause we ADORE them), but because we still do not have both feet on the ground, and we are still flying by the seat of our pants around here. So to take our two older ones out for a night of fun and let them be kids away from all the crying, and parents who are just too tired to be fun....Well, it just can't get better than that when you are in our situation.<br /><br />All that to say that Charlie and I went out on our first date night...yep, all 3 of us. We thought long and hard about a place that would be family friendly, really loud just in case she started screaming, and still maybe feel nice enough to be considered a date night. Cheesecake Factory was our answer. All went really well as far as dinner out with our new daughter, however we were caught off guard by something we had not really thought much about in a while, nor had Charlie and I talked about since we got Hannah. The fact that we are now considered the "Conspicuous" family. <br /><br />At dinner, Charlie and I both noticed all the stares from people...not in an ugly way, but nonetheless stares. I'm not talking from children who don't have responsible parents to teach their children, "Sweetie, it's bad manners to stare." No, these are full grown adults (some of you parents out there need to practice what you preach if you are in fact teaching your kids). My first (crazy) thought is, "Why do they not think that she MIGHT be ours?"...then I realize, cause were not Asian...I said crazy. Really, is this <del>our</del> her new life??? People always staring? Poor Hannah! If it makes us uncomfortable, you know it's going to make her feel uncomfortable one day. If we know it's her they are looking at, one day she too will know it's her they are staring at...sigh...one more thing we will very soon have to deal with.<br /><br />In China the stares were very different. They came from a very uneducated mind. They could not understand why in the world the American people would want to come to China to get their children (or that we are raising them ALL WRONG). Still very hard. Matter of fact, I learned to just stare back (it was the only survival tactic that I could think of while not in my right mind, but it worked every time). Every once in awhile I would find myself in a hard game of "stare-off", some of those people are really good at it...but don't mess with this mama and her new baby cub...I'll win every time!<br /><br />So on our date night at The Cheesecake Factory, they sat us next to a full table of Asian people...are you kidding me??? Charlie and I looked at each other and I whispered, "this ought to be interesting." We had not even sat down yet when we looked over and saw this:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3016.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3016.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They only thought I was taking a picture of our precious daughter, but really it was just them I was taking the picture of. For those of you who are wondering, it DID last the whole dinner. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/11/04/3017.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/11/04/s_3017.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Matter of fact, they eventually wound up at our table with their hands all over our new sweet daughter, even tried to pick her up out of her highchair...that I'm sure confused the heck out of her. I'm sure she was thinking, "Am I going back to China now?" Really, they were almost as excited as we were on gotcha day. I asked Charlie after they FINALLY left, "Why in the world did you not grab the camera off the table and take a picture of that???" They had NO problems taking our pictures...NO JOKE! Thankfully, they were the nice kind of people who understand adoption and were very sweet about everything, but again poor Hannah. :( I'm sure things will get less invasive as time goes, when she's older and people don't feel as comfortable talking to an older girl. I do understand the fact that she is SO STINKIN CUTE, and that's ok. These kind of stares I'm talking about are VERY different though! <br /><br />Don't get me wrong, we took the whole 10 hour "Hague" training where they fully prepared us for this, and yes we were asked how we felt about becoming an interracial family in our Home Study, but it still broke our hearts to see firsthand (now having her) just how hard the road ahead is going to be for this little cutie-batootie. Now can you see why adoptive children have a hard time moving forward emotionally? Just because a child is running, playing, making good grades, and has a lot of friends doesn't always mean that the child has moved forward without any scars. The scars are always with these children, some way deeper than others. Sadly, after our dinner we realized that a lot of them come from people right here in America.<br /><br />So, no it was not the planned date night we thought we would have, but none the less blog worthy.<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-38224900264540802872011-10-29T16:46:00.001-05:002011-10-29T16:48:10.891-05:00Good Days and Bad DaysI know many of you are worried sick about us wondering if we are still alive and surviving this crazy season of our lives...and then there are those of you who are just addicted to our blog and NEED a daily update. :o) I am so thankful for all the messages, texst, and emails checking up on us, but I just cannot find the time or energy to respond to all of them. I will try to give updates on my bog when I can to keep you all in the know, but life as mom of a new adopted toddler, mom of twin 6 yr. old boys who still has to catch up homework on top of the regular homework, wife to a husband who is in the height of his busy season at work, and the list goes on...did I mention doing this while SO SLEEP DEPRIVED???????<br /><br />Now for your fix:<br /><br />Sweet little Hannah over all is doing so well with all that she is going through. The first few days home went really well outside of sleeping at night (which is when she seems to do most of her grieving). The last few days however has been a different story. Don't get me wrong, the girl still has many HAPPY and content moments, but we've seen her regress in a lot of ways.<br />1) Sleepless nights got worse<br />2) Night terrors<br />3) Waking from naps not knowing where she is or who I am, and completely terrified of me when I try to come to her.<br />4) Shaking and crying when we say, "It's time to go Bye-Bye" with fear she is going to be left.<br />5) Not being able to walk through most doorways without being carried (she did this a lot in China, but we thought she was over it). She will freeze up and cry almost every time.<br />6) Terrified of random loud noises (garbage truck outside, or even me calling out one of the kid's names from across the house.<br />7) Her pulling her hair out when she has one of her meltdowns.<br />8) She is still very jealous of the boys time with me. She <b>does not</b> handle very well the boys sitting next to me doing homework. <br />9) Meal times are still very hard, however I think this is starting to get better.<br />10) Then there is the fact that she is almost 2!! Trying to decide whats a 2 year old tantrum, and whats an emotions grieving moment...sometimes it's just hard to know.<br /><br />Now let me say that most people do not see this side of her. Most people would look at her (and they do) and say, "She has adjusted so well." And in most ways she has (the girl can work a crowd), but unless you are in our home these last few days you would not know the real hardship this poor child has in her life. It's also really hard to talk to people about this, because most people just don't understand the hardship and needs of a child her age who has been abandoned..sometimes we struggle with it. Parenting a child like her is nothing like parenting my other children...and it's SO HARD to re-train our parenting style!<br /><br />Charlie and I are doing OK. Last night was the first time I felt like the jet lag might be wearing off (no more extreme nausea, headaches, drugged feeling, severe fogged brain...although that last one is still trying to hang on). Now if we could just get better sleep at night we would be great. I am SO incredibly thankful for the meals coming our way cause that is the hardest time of our days hands down. It's the simplest things sometimes that mean the world in moments like these. <br /><br />Her relationship with the boys is getting better every day. It's so cute when we have to go get the boys from school. The moment she recognizes them she gets all giddy and starts squeeling with her arms out to hug them. She truly has a love for them and knows them as her brothers, she just is still not comfortable in her role in our family when they are around. This is just going to take a lot of patience, time, and love. Mark and Charles are just smitten with her and I think they understand that she just needs time.<br /><br />We have been so amazed at the things she is telling us about her past through playing. Like the fact that she or someone in her foster home slept on mats on the floor, and that they sponged bathed in a large pot while sitting on a stool, and a few other things like that. Every day we learn a little more about her past...good and bad. Just amazing what you can learn about a child through the way they play and a little research.<br /><br />Today has been a good day, and we just keep praying every day will just continue to move forward vrs. backwards, but whatever comes we will be there to see her through it...because that's what parents do.<br /><br />BTW, I still have that last big suitcase that needs to be unpacked. :(<br /><br />Sorry no fun pictures. Till next time.<br /><br /> <br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-584262576503895202011-10-24T21:05:00.001-05:002011-10-24T21:05:52.520-05:00Home SWEET HomePraise God for His faithfulness to get us through this trip and bringing us HOME!<br /><br />What a way to come home too, with all our family and close friends there to greet us...it was SO SWEET and felt so good to see all those familiar faces cheering and holding signs, balloons, and gifts. I couldn't hold back the tears.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3303.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3303.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3304.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3304.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Even the family who planted the seed of adoption in my mind all those years ago...Greg and Angie Hutto. This was a special moment for me.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3306.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3306.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our girls together...where has the time gone...look how big Alana is now!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3307.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3307.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My family drove all the way from OKC just for this moment.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3308.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3308.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Charlie's parents.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3309.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3309.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Charles' teacher Mrs. Diaz from last year even came.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3310.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3310.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And lots of friends who have supported us along the way.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3311.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3311.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3312.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3312.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And my sweet friends who have walked this road before me and know exactly what we have been through, and the comfort these ladies bring me without even speaking a word...priceless!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3313.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3313.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3314.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3314.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I'm sure I'm missing a few people, but please remember my brain is fried from <b><ins>SEVERE</ins></b> jet lag and it was not my intention to leave anyone out...Sorry!<br /><br />We loaded up and headed for home.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3315.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3315.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Her 1st time in a car seat. Once the car got rolling she was fine.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3316.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3316.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Only minutes later all 3 of our children were fast asleep...We were exhausted!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3317.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3317.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We had a sweet greeting at our door from family who could not make it to the airport. HEY, WERE HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3318.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3318.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hannah seemed right at home when she walked in. We all couldn't wait to show her her room. I had taken photos of her room and put them in a book along with pictures of family members who she might soon see, praying it would help the transition. All I have to say is, "I am one smart lady!" When she walked into her room she looked around and started pointing at all the things she recognized with the biggest smile. I put her up on her bed and she began to roll around and giggle with pure joy...AMAZING!!!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3319.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3319.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3320.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3320.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3321.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3321.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3322.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3322.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3323.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3323.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3324.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3324.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It's a good thing cause I made half the things in here, but I think it's safe to say she LOVES it! :o) The best part is that she has been sleeping in her room ALONE since the very 1st night, which means I have been sleeping in my own bed...I cannot tell you what a blessing and miracle this is. God is SO good!!!!!!!! <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3325.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3325.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />She has adjusted to being here so well! We have seen less of the melt downs, and while she does still wake at night (guess I can't have everything), all in all she is doing great.<br /><br />She is such a girl!!! She came to us with a love of shoes, purses, bows in her hair, clothes...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3327.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3327.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />and dancing! So different, yet so fun. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3328.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3328.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3329.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3329.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3330.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3330.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Now if I can get the last suitcase unpacked and get over this jet lag, maybe I'll be dancing too. :o)<br /><br />More pictures of her 1st room for those who care. <br /><br />All the furniture was bought 2nd hand from Canton or my new favorite little shop, Golightly's Antiques and Tearoom. Bedding from Target, pillows and curtains made by my talented friend Amanda Eisenhour.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3331.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3331.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Song bird painted by yours truly.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3332.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3332.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Bookshelf made out of old french doors. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3333.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3333.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3334.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3334.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tree branch from our neighborhood, with little decorative bird houses (thanks Gina for helping me make these).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3335.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3335.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3336.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3336.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Cross painting by yours truly.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/24/3337.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3337.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Such a happy room...if I do say so myself! :)<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-22688495957702122792011-10-21T01:35:00.001-05:002011-10-21T05:37:12.909-05:00Ground Hog DayLast picture before we left our hotel in China.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/502.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_502.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Both boys got very quiet and very sad about leaving.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/39.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_39.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Charles almost cried a couple of times. :(<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/40.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_40.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sadly we got to live Thursday October 20th twice (because of time changes). :-/ However, it was not a bad day...somebody has been praying! :)<br /><br />Hannah did GREAT! Had it not been for the mean flight attendant who made us get Hannah off the bed on the floor we made her, I think we would have made it through most of the flight without any crying. Hannah had a hard time with being curled up trying to sleep in a ball in her seat. She slept most of the trip on her back with both legs hanging over Charlie's seat (almost upside down)...but hey, she slept!!!! We only had about 2 moments of fussing. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/41.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_41.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/43.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_43.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The boys also did really good and they too slept almost the whole time (wish I could say the same about Charlie and I). Honestly, the trip home was way easier than the trip over...and we had an almost 2 year old with us. SO VERY THANKFUL!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/45.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_45.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/47.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_47.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Can I take a minute and introduce America's newest (and cutest) citizen to you? Miss Hannah Campbell!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/48.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_48.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This was a very anti-climatic moment...not even a "Congratulations! <br />Welcome to America". Kinda bummed me out. :( They did let me take a picture of her with a sign (that's all they would give me). Oh, and yes she is wearing pajamas...sorry, but that's all I had in her bag after she pee'ed all over the plane seat...that's what the mean flight attendant gets for not letting her sleep flat in the floor.<br />After checking into our hotel in California we headed for an In-N-Out Burger. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/49.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_49.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/21/50.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/21/s_50.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I think we spent the entire dinner counting all the blessings and things we love here in America. It feels SO good to be back!!! Now we are counting down the hours until we're back home...WE CANNOT WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As of now, we are scheduled to arrive on AA 2448 at 6:55 pm.<br /><br />Note to self...If Hannah comes up missing, check Kevin's suitcase. The boy has fallen head over heals with her! :)<br /><br />Goodnight from California, USA...whoohoo!!! <br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-31616607233529992892011-10-20T01:55:00.001-05:002011-10-20T02:06:00.295-05:00Day 15 (Travel Day)We are all packed, waiting for Hannah to wake from her last nap. I cannot explain the nervousness I'm feeling about tonight's flight. It's one thing to deal with her crying here in this huge room, but it's another thing on a plane of sleeping Chinese people (who cannot NOT stare at you with this "poor child" look/glare) in those melt down moments...just makes those moments SO much harder. Thankfully, we are seeing less of them, but they can still come out of no where, and almost always meal times. <br /><br />I DO NOT know how people do this trip without having a close relationship with God. I am so thankful I am not (nor will I be) alone in this. He is my rock, friend, counselor, and source of strength. I am so thankful for how He has guided each step along the way, and how I KNOW he will continue to guide us.<br /><br />I am also so thankful for my sweet husband whom I am still madly in love with (even after all of this). He has been amazing throughout this trip. He has been right there with me (even when he was sick) to do whatever needed to be done. It has been such a joy to watch him gently win Hannah over little by little. This little girl has one AMAZING new daddy! :o) <br /><br />To our boys who have been the ones hit the hardest in all of this, I just need to take a moment to tell you just how proud we are of both of you. You boys have been such troopers in all of this. This trip is not easy for us adults much less 6 year old BOYS, but you handled it all better than we ever expected. I'm sorry Daddy and I have not had the time or energy to be there for you at times like you needed us to be, but hope you never questioned our love for you. Words cannot express just how much we love each of you. You both have been so sweet and patient with your new sister even when she has not shown the same respect back. It has been a blessing to us to watch each of you in your own way try and win her heart over. Watching the 3 of you run and giggle last night was a sweet taste of all the loud joy coming into our home soon. We love you both 10 times more than you could ever say!!! :o)<br /><br />Kevin and Amanda, we could not have done this without your help. Thanks for helping at mealtimes, giving us rest time in the afternoon, playing a first grade school teacher, hauling our overweight luggage, and being our boy's playmates. You have put your own lives on hold to make this trip with us and we hope you will always look back on it with fond memories. We've prayed God would bless you through this trip and we're excited about your future, in whatever way He chooses to bless you. <br /><br />There is SO much more I'd love to blog about from our time here in China and I promise you it will be worth the time to read! But until then here are just a few last minute random pictures from China. :o)<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4161.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4161.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4162.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4162.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Taking in the sites of her 1st home one last time...and yes, no seat belts!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4163.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4163.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Red couch pictures from the White Swan.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4164.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4164.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4165.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4165.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4166.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4166.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4167.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4167.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4168.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4168.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4169.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4169.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Poor girl really fits right in!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4170.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4170.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4171.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4171.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Thank you Honey for always being willing to play my reindeer games!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4172.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4172.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />L.O.M.L.!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/19/4173.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/19/s_4173.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Over and out to our 250 plus followers during our trip. Big thanks from the crazy Campbells! Hannah, we love you ALL the way to China...and back!!!<br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-54125719716604145012011-10-19T10:16:00.000-05:002011-10-19T10:16:45.928-05:00Day 14 (REALLY!!!)First off let me just say that Hannah had one of her worst nights yet. :( I'm not kidding when I say she whined almost all night. Charlie and I are both so tired it's not even funny!!!! The great thing about this hotel room is that it is SO BIG and has 2 huge rooms that close off from each other so the boys are sleeping great, but the crib is right at the foot of our bed and even with a sound machine we hear EVERYTHING! The moment one of us goes over to pat her she is out, but it is only a temporary fix. We finally lost count of how many times we were each up...but it was a lot!!!!!! The bitter sweet part is when it was time to wake up this morning she was ALL smiles...so hard to stay mad at that!<br />
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Today started off earlier than the rest, but it was a BIG day and I think our guide wanted to make sure we had plenty of time and were not late. Don't worry, EVERYONE asked me several times today if I still had my camera to make sure I didn't loose it again. However we were not allowed to bring any cameras into the government building...we knew this was their rule but it still just stinks! One of our biggest moments could not be caught on camera, but don't worry, I still took cute before and after pictures. :)<br />
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Hannah went in as a Chinese citizen...<br />
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And came out (according to China) a proud American citizen. She will not be given final citizenship until we hit LA back in the states...but this was a huge step!<br />
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Oh the fun she had with the American flag!<br />
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A little game of peek-a-boo.<br />
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In Chinese Hannah means "Sexy Lady", this is her working her sexy.<br />
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One last stop for family photos before heading back to the hotel...really, cause it's getting really hot and we are all SO TIRED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
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Then it was time for the famous photo of all the adoptive families in our group...this is not easy when everyone is tired and hungry. Wow, and are we all tired. This has been a really hard trip on most of us, so I think we look pretty good if you ask me. Some sweet families in this group, and I am going to miss the instant understanding we all have with one another. :(<br />
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Our last Mommy shot together.<br />
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And our one and only shot of just the children...they will thank us for this later. There are some really sweet children in the group and they all seem to have wonderful parents. We are looking forward to watching them grow and bond with their new families.<br />
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Last I just wanted to give a little update on Hannah. She is doing so well with all things considered. She now knows us as Mama and Daddy...Yea! With all the Chinese people around she comes to us for comfort when she is scared or sad. She now LOVES her daddy, she even cried this morning when he left to take the boys down for breakfast before us. She is SLOWLY opening up to the boys (we do still have a lot of work to do on this one), she speaks some english words now (mama, dada, trash, turtle, Papa, diaper, night-night, more...), she likes bath time, and LOVES changing her clothes, putting on shoes, and having a bow in her hair. Here are a few pictures of her over the last week of trying to do those things herself. :)<br />
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This one she is trying to get one of the boy's underwear on.<br />
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She is doing so great, yet we still have a long way to go emotionally. As Charlie reminded me the other day, being here and going through all of this is really the easy part. We still have to take her home and raise her...and her biggest change has still yet to come (not sure if those were the most encouraging words to give me at that time, but they are so true).<br />
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We have had a great time here in her home country of China, but we are all really getting home sick. It makes me really sad when I think of her feeling the same way after being in America, but there will be no going back to the only life she has known. I know this is a great thing, but nonetheless a sad truth we will have to gently walk her through. I am praying and trusting in God that He will continue to give us the strength, energy, patience, and wisdom to do just that, cause right now it all feels a little overwhelming to me (and that's before the big travel back to the States).<br />
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I know we have asked for some big prayer request over the last days, weeks, and months, but our biggest challenge is just ahead of us. Please continue to lift our family up in your prayers. We are all going to need it!!!!!<br />
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Thank you all for walking this journey with us all the way to China. We are all SO VERY THANKFUL for each of you. We cannot wait to introduce her personally to each of you so very soon! Please understand if that may take us a little longer than we hope...she will set the pace for a little while.<br />
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Now, we pack...AGAIN! Tomorrow is our last day here...we leave tomorrow night for LA.The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-6391741860206872962011-10-18T09:52:00.001-05:002011-10-18T09:52:23.851-05:00Day 13Lions, Tigers, and PANDA Bears, oh my!!!!<br /><br />Today was zoo day. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1299.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1299.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1300.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1300.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I wish I knew if she's ever been to a zoo before, or what animals she knows about, but we don't. So there's no time like the present to start.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1301.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1301.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1302.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1302.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1303.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1303.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The zoo was in much better shape than I had prepared myself for. I'm sure had it been hotter I would have seen this place much differently, but it was a beautiful day and the animals seemed to enjoy it (as much as a caged animal can). We too enjoyed getting out and having this experience with her, and it was cute watching all the little ones enjoy it together.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1304.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1304.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The best part of the trip was seeing real panda bears while in China.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1305.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1305.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1306.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1306.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They were a real hit for everyone!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1307.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1307.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We stopped for a few pictures on our way out...fun day, but we are really tired.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1308.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1308.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1309.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1309.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1310.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1310.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />All the moms with their new girls in our group.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1311.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1311.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1312.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1312.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Happy girl!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1313.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1313.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Silly parents!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1314.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1314.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Ok, can you believe I lost my camera 2 days in a row??? Left it on the bus after the zoo...Ugh! Thankfully our guide found it and gave it to me before our next tour (only a few hours later...Did I mention how tired I was?). Hey, at least I didn't almost forget my new daughter...again...sorry, but things have been a little crazy here, and did I mention how tired I am?<br /><br />2nd tour of the day...dinner cruise.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1315.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1315.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />NOTE TO SELF: Pack a to-go meal! Can't say I didn't try. Sorry, but when they display the actual chicken head in the chicken dish, I'm out! :(<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1316.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1316.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Thank goodness for corn and watermelon.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1317.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1317.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Cute picture of the boys!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1318.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1318.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />However, it was cute to watch Hannah with chopsticks.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1319.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1319.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The girl knows what she's doing. :)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1320.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1320.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After dinner, we all headed up for the beautiful view.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1321.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1321.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />ALL of these lights were added for the olympic games in 2008...WOW!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1322.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1322.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Great night!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1323.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1323.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we all headed back inside for the grand finale...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1324.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1324.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A Chinese clown who juggles. LOL!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1325.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1325.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was funny just looking at her, with a Chinese version of "Livin LaVida Loca" blaring in the background...really funny y'all!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1326.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1326.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />However, she was really good, and the kids loved her.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1327.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1327.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The boys even got to be part of the show. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1328.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1328.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1329.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1329.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/18/1330.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/18/s_1330.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Good times!!!! <br /><br />Tomorrow is our US Consulate appointment at 10 am. This will be our final step to finalizing our adoption with Hannah. Please pray all goes well.<br /><br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-90834715097175356422011-10-17T07:49:00.001-05:002011-10-17T07:49:22.544-05:00Day 12Happy 1/2 birthday to me!!!!! Sorry, but only mommies with twin boys born on their birthday get to celebrate their half birthday...really, this was something Charlie started long before our kids came (good thing, huh).<br /><br />So I thought my pearl necklace was my gift a day early, but then Charlie shows up with a little box from the same pearl shop from yesterday...WHAT?!?! Inside was a little pearl ring. Nothing expensive, but VERY sweet! Apparently he had EVERYONE in on it, even our guide. : o) I love that man!<br /><br />Today was our souvenir shopping day on the island. Aside from Charles getting car sick and throwing up in not one but two taxis, leaving my camera at a shop on the island and Charlie having to take another taxi back to find it, and Hannah having one of her melt downs at all 3 meals, it was a pretty uneventful day. <br /><br />Don't ask me how (other than by the beautiful grace of God), but we are still able to find moments of joy in this CrAzY journey. If nothing else but laughing at ourselves sometimes...and for that I am so thankful!!! Hey, memories are memories and God is making sure we have a load of them. <br /><br />Amanda, Hannah, Charlie, and Charles are all better now, but there have been several others in our group who have also come down with one thing or another...so please keep praying for health for EVERYONE! <br /><br />Only a few pictures today...sorry. Crazy times y'all!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/17/762.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/17/s_762.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/17/763.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/17/s_763.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/17/764.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/17/s_764.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Praying for a full night's sleep...goodnight.<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-65591672971151999432011-10-16T09:17:00.001-05:002011-10-16T09:52:05.967-05:00Day 11Today was shopping day, and shopping we did do!!! The one thing I was determined to buy while in China was some pearls. So we were taken to a pearl wholesaler to pick them out (individually), and have them strung right in front of us. It was AWSOME!!! My whole life I've wanted pearls but could not bring myself to buy them, but here you can get them SO much cheaper...so we made the splurge. :) <br /><br />First up, a pearl bracelet for Hannah.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1480.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1480.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1481.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1481.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She loved it so much she gave me a hug...all on her own. :o) Although, she should be hugging her sweet daddy for them.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1482.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1482.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Next up, my pearls.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1483.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1483.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />LOVE THEM! Thanks Honey!!!! These are my 1/2 birthday present for tomorrow. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1484.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1484.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Then I had some simple drop earrings made, and a special gift to set aside for Hannah one day before my CPA told me the bank was about to close. :( I guess if you spend enough money in the store you get a free gift, so the lady brought me a sweet little neckless with 2 pearls together in a locket to represent Hannah and I being together forever...AWWW!!!!!! For some reason Charlie did not find this as sweet as I did, I think he was still hung up on the fact that we spent enough to get a "free" gift.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1485.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1485.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Then we walked back to catch our bus to take us back to our hotel, but not before taking this cute picture...sorry, but I do not know how to flip it around.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1486.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1486.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Oh hey, remember the time when our family went to China and our whole family got sick? You all know about Hannah and Charlie, but listen to this. I was literally typing a praise this afternoon about Charles and how well his body has adjusted to his terrible diet the past two weeks when....Charles throws up pizza all over the floor and fancy couch of our hotel room! He then complains that his throat is hurting, which makes me pretty sure he has Strep. <br /><br />Have you ever tried to communicate to a Chinese doctor about antibiotics and medical terminology? Not easy people! So we've started the whole family on antibiotics that I had prescribed before the trip. I just hope they will kill Strep! Please pray for Mark's health. He is notorious for getting croup and we really don't want to deal with that here. The devil really seems to be attacking our whole travel group through our health. There are other families dealing with health issues as well. But we are praising God through it all because we know he is able to deliver us and we are already seeing improvement in Hannah and Charlie.<br /><br />So we decided to skip the traditional Cantonese dinner our guide planned and stay in and eat Subway tonight (thanks Kevin and Amanda for the food run).<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/16/1487.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/16/s_1487.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />On a final sweet note, we realized this was our first family dinner with just the five of us! Oh, the big giant fan in the picture...that could be a whole blog post all by itself, but basically it's to dry the fancy carpet after Charles spewed all over it. :(<br /><br />Y'all, please pray Hannah starts sleeping through the night better. It's normal for her to be going through this phase, but with such busy days, someone always sick, AND the waking up 4-5 times a night, well let's just say I'm a walking zombie! Honestly, we are ALL just exhausted!!!! <br /><br /><b><i>Matthew 11:28-30 </i>“<i><b>Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light</i</b>>.”</b><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-55789422268213588852011-10-15T09:45:00.001-05:002011-10-15T09:45:43.089-05:00Day 1010 days...REALLY??? That's a LONG time people!<br /><br />So today was a good day, yet a really bad day all at the same time. Good day because Hannah made great strides with her daddy today, yet bad day because her daddy was VERY sick. Hannah too is still hanging on to her cold and we may have to start her on an antibiotic.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1615.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1615.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We started out the day on "Stork Island" with Hannah's medical appointment. This was a real joke if you ask me (but nobody did), but it's all part of the process. She was given a great report, and we were sent on our way. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1616.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1616.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1617.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1617.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1618.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1618.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1619.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1619.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We left the medical building and spent about an hour walking around Shamian Island.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1620.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1620.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we did a little shopping before lunch at Lucy's American Bar and Grill. It was a beautiful day sitting out on the patio eating cheese burgers and singing along to Air Supply...we are in China, right??? :o)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1621.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1621.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This is one of her MANY silly looks she gives...She fits right in with our family, don't you think?<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1622.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1622.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The boys and I walked around to explore the hotel while Daddy and Hannah took naps. This place is BEAUTIFUL y'all!!!! Just happy to be in a clean place where we can walk the street without everyone having to wash all the black HEAVENS ONLY KNOW WHAT off our feet. Nasty I tell you! Oh, and we even saw a little bit of blue skies for the first time since we left the states...NO JOKE!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1623.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1623.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1624.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1624.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Charlie was really not feeling well today (he did start his antibiotics...hope they are the right kind for what he has) so the rest of us set out for some Mexican food while he stayed back at the hotel. :) The food was not bad I have to say. I cannot tell you how thankful I was to see that Hannah liked it...sorry, but you cannot live in this family unless you like Mexican food.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1625.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1625.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />If you think of it, would you please pray for Charles. He is having a really hard time with Hannah not embracing him as fast as he would like. She has made small steps towards both boys every day, but has been much slower to letting him in...and he is SO aware of it. It just breaks my heart! I think too he is missing his mommy time too, and that is really hard with a little one who needs so much attention right now. We keep encouraging him to be patient, and tonight after putting Hannah down I spent some time laying and cuddling with just the boys (even though I was SO TIRED). He really needs the prayers y'all!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1626.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1626.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hannah continues to make baby steps everyday, but she still has a couple of moments every day of complete melt downs. Most of the other families are dealing with the same thing with their children, and I am so thankful to feel their support and true understanding (however, I wish none of our children had to go through this). It's not a fun thing to watch! The crazy part of it is that before and after we have the happiest child in the world. I can not explain how hard this is on our own emotions. I just wish there was something we could do to take away all her pain and confusion, but all we can do is pray and believe that God one day will.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/1627.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_1627.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><i>Because with our God ALL things are possible</i>!!!! (<b>Matthew 19:26</b>)<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-73403021591559926032011-10-15T04:29:00.001-05:002011-10-15T04:29:14.502-05:00Day 9Sorry I'm just getting to this, but with all the travel, getting in SO late, being SO tired, and Charlie and Hannah still sick it was just impossible to think of pulling out the computer to blog. :( Still not much time and Charlie now has a fever (NO KIDDING), so I will just let the pictures tell the story (isn't that the only reason you logged onto my blog anyways??? Enjoy!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/548.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_548.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/549.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_549.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/550.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_550.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/551.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_551.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Oh how happy this made Mark!!!!! They held hands all the way to gate.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/552.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_552.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/553.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_553.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/554.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_554.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/555.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_555.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I know she looks happy here, but she cried at least 1/2 the trip...and even though she is finally starting to take to her daddy that is not who she wanted during her fits while on the plane. UGH!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/556.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_556.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/557.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_557.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/558.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_558.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/559.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_559.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our new guide, Simon. Whatever Simon says, we do!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/560.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_560.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Our new 5 star hotel...frankly after the last one we would have been OK with a 3 star. This one is S-W-A-N-K-Y...THANK YOU GOD!!!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/561.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_561.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/15/562.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/15/s_562.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The End!<br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-48375405279988883572011-10-13T10:55:00.001-05:002011-10-13T10:55:45.429-05:00Day 8Wow! There is SO much to blog about I just don't even know where to start and I really need some sleep, so I'll just have to do my best to get you caught up on the day.<br /><br />First we went back to the Civil Affairs Office to finalize our adoption in the eyes of China...it was a very simple, yet big moment for this little girl.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1683.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1683.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And an emotional and proud moment for us as her family.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1684.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1684.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we headed over to visit the orphanage she spent her 1st few months and last couple of weeks in. As we pulled up and she saw out the window where we were she melted down instantly, and we weren't sure if we would make it off the bus. Then she settled down and was fine from that point on. She didn't even seem to have any connection to the place.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1685.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1685.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This building is only about 3 years old and is considered to be one of China's model orphanages...and it really was...for an orphanage. Complete with Mickey Mouse greeting everyone as we drove up.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1686.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1686.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1687.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1687.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1688.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1688.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then they presented each family with a care package where we got her health records, developed photos from the camera we sent her, CD of other pictures they took, copy of note given from birth parents, and a few other things...SO glad they did this for her!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1689.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1689.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1690.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1690.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then Mark found a picture of Hannah hanging on the wall with pictures of some of the other children who are still there, and it was a happy moment to hold her in my arms knowing she is not an orphan in this place any more.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1691.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1691.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then we began our tour...while wearing blue shoe covers (It's a very well kept place).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1692.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1692.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />First stop....a classroom.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1694.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1694.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1696.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1696.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1697.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1697.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then on to the bedroom where all the children were sleeping. Charlie and I spent most of our time walking around talking to and touching the children. This part was not easy. Charlie had a hard time with this part, but the good news is that most of these kids already have families coming for them. This was Hannah's old bed.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1699.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1699.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then on to the playroom that is used when the weather is bad and the children cannot go outside.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1701.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1701.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Where we met her nanny.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1702.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1702.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then is was time to go, and oh how great it felt to walk away from here holding her in my arms listening to her say, "Bye Bye" and wave her hand. This was the only time I started to tear up. I just didn't feel any connection to this place, I guess because of how little time she spent there. Now if this had of been her foster parent's home it would have been a whole other story...they probably would have had to build a dam to hold back the flood.<br /><br />Next stop of the day was the silk museum here in her province.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1703.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1703.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We had a little tour of how silk is made, then were taken into a room for a real fashion show...with a real runway and loud music. :)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1704.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1704.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was really fun for us girls, and Hannah was mesmerized!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1705.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1705.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The most beautiful model was this sweet little asian girl dressed in a cute dress...just a real beauty who really knew how to work the crowd, and the crowd loved her!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1706.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1706.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Funny, she looks like someone I know???<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1707.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1707.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Oh wait a minute, that's MY daughter! :)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1708.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1708.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After lunch we were finally back in our rooms for naps. :) Busy day!!!<br /><br />Hannah is starting to loosen back up and let the 3 boys in a bit more...baby steps right??? I've been letting the 3 of them be the ones to feed her, and that seems to be helping. Mark was so excited tonight when she let him feed her the whole banana. Y'all, I cannot tell you how much this kid loves his new sister!!!!!! So the banana thing was HUGE to him.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1709.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1709.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We all really enjoyed our last dinner here at our favorite Pizza Inn.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1711.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1711.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then because of the rain we let Kevin hail his 1st taxi (yeah Kevin), and we all piled in like a bunch of clowns at a rodeo to head back to our hotel for more packing. Good times!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/13/1712.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/13/s_1712.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I cannot tell you just how happy we are to be leaving Hangzhou... EVERYTHING about this place has been SO HARD (except getting Hannah of course). However, I can't believe we will soon be in the last leg of our trip. Tomorrow we hop on yet another plane to Guangzhou...where every child adopted from China has to go through to finalize the adoption with the US Consulate.<br /><br />It is a little sad to think that Hannah will be leaving her home here, and all the things that are familiar to her. The next province will be very different from here, and they even speak a different language. Please pray for her as she makes more changes, and flies on her 1st airplane.<br /><br />We are all just praying she does not have one of her melt downs while on the plane...poor girl still has several uncontrollable crying spells every day (these are so hard on all of us). All I have to say is, "Hannah, lets go bye-bye" and the poor girl instantly starts screaming with a panicking fear...SO SAD!!!! She really has a great fear of being left, and understandably so. :(<br /><br />P.S. I did not wake up sick today. Just sore throat and heavy chest from all the smog and cigarette smoke here...way worse than in Beijing! So nasty!!!<br />Everyone else seems to be on the mend. :) Thanks for the prayers.<br /><br />P.P.S. Our video camera fell out of our bag today and no longer works...this makes me SO SAD!!!! Praying for a miracle on that one too.<br /><br />Good night! <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-14533639448035010492011-10-12T03:19:00.001-05:002011-10-12T09:45:44.717-05:00Day 7Well, today was a bit better...I guess. Less crying, but still very withdrawn in many ways. She has become very detached and fearful of Charlie...and the boys, well she has not really wanted anything to do with them from the beginning (except take food, which they are always happy to do).<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/1255.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_1255.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Again this is very normal for a child to pick one person to meet all their needs and shut everyone else out, but it's SO HARD to see it happen. The boys are being so sweet and trying so hard with her, but she will not even let them come near her. Charlie has handled it pretty well, but I can see it is breaking his heart. We both know it is a temporary phase, but the boys do not understand it very well. We just keep encouraging them to not give up.<br /><br />The orphanage director told us when we got her that she had a VERY hard time after being brought back to the orphanage from her foster home, and that she is very much an introvert. She tried preparing us for her to have a hard time; we just couldn't believe her that first day. Oh, we believe now!!! I am glad we at least got a glimpse of what's to come, because it gives us hope.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/1258.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_1258.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Oh, did I mention Charlie is sick???? :( Praying I'm not next.<br /><br />In spite of all the ugly in our day, we did enjoy getting to see a better side of Hangzhou...It was AMAZINGLY beautiful!!!! West Lake (not Ross' Westlake) and the tea gardens took our breath away. Our tour group went to an incredible "tea" village and received a lecture about all the medicinal properties of green tea. Did you know the Chinese Universities offer a 4-year degree on "tea"? I guess coffee would be a masters program. We also learned from our lecturer, Dr. Tea, how much the Chinese dislike the Japanese. Understandable I guess when you hear them talk about WWII. Overall it was very interesting and the village was very beautiful.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/1260.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_1260.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We ended the day on a good note. Charlie was able to bribe Hannah with a banana (FYI, Charlie says people are not allowed to call her Hannah Banana) and she seemed to warm up to him a bit. She also possibly started to turn a corner with the boys - she started watching them play and even slowly followed them around a little this afternoon. We're praying that she will be giggling and chasing them by the end of the trip. We're also praying Charlie can stop bribing soon so she won't become the first overweight Chinese person we've seen here. But really, if you tried to feed Americans half the things they eat here, we'd all be skinny too! Some of it is really scary!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/12/1261.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/12/s_1261.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tomorrow morning we go to the orphanage. We don't really know what to expect and we're a little nervous of how it could impact Hannah and the other little girls. I mean she's two years old and will most likely have some understanding of what that place means. Please pray for Hannah and the others that God will somehow use this trip tomorrow to cement the bond between them and the parents. <br /><br />Enough for now, gotta go to bed. Feeling like I may be getting a sore throat too. :( <br /><br /><b><i>Psalm 27:10</i></b> <i>Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord (and my adoptive parents) will receive me.<br /></i><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053283993364626082.post-64874522479681165622011-10-11T10:11:00.001-05:002011-10-11T10:18:34.747-05:00Day 6<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/11/1439.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/11/s_1439.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Wow! What a difference 24 hrs. can make! The day started out fine. Hannah slept through the night (outside of coughing and moaning from time to time due to the nasty cough she came with). She woke around 7 am, and had a bit of confusion on her face, but still happy. We all ate breakfast, and skyped home for the 1st time. Another great day, right???<br /><br />WRONG!!!! Out of NOWHERE something happened (what, we are not sure), and from there she fell apart. This is very normal for most adoptive children (especially the older they are), but I guess we let our guard down a little too much and a little too early. She became very fearful, and nothing seemed to calm her down. Very withdrawn, and would go from almost hiding in my arms to kicking and screaming to the point it was hard to hold her. We asked our adoption guide if she thought this was just due to her cold, and she said she thought she was just going through the typical grieving...Oh how I was just hoping it was the cold. <br /><br />We set out for lunch (KFC today...BLAH) thinking it would help since she likes to be outside, but it was only a temporary fix. She began to really fuss, then fell asleep in her carrier. Due to this being way before her nap time, we were now way off her normal schedule...bummer! Things got progressively worse as the afternoon went. We finally laid her in her crib later in the afternoon, and I patted her to sleep...poor thing cried herself to sleep. :( <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/11/1440.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/11/s_1440.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />About 40 minutes later she woke with a night terror (this can also be normal, but again we were hoping and praying we would not have to deal with this). She did settle and go back to sleep on the bed next to me, where she slept a good hour and a half more. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/11/1441.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/11/s_1441.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />She woke crying and still somewhat afraid and withdrawn, but finally began to pull herself out of it about the time we left for dinner (the nicest most up-scale Pizza Inn we've ever seen...I'm not kidding). Hannah did great, and even sat in a high chair most of dinner. She was back!!! The rest of the night we saw the same smily, happy, playful girl we had yesterday...even giving kisses at the table. Thank you God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/10/11/1442.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/11/s_1442.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />It was a really hard day to see her act this way, and to feel SO helpless in that moment...broke our hearts. Please pray for her to have fewer moments like this. However, I know it is normal and even good for her to grieve in this way...so maybe you should just pray we will be calmer and more patient to just let her get it out. YUCK!!!!!<br /><br />P.S. You might also pray for our friend Amanda who is traveling with us, she came down with a cold yesterday. In spite of her cold she is being such a trooper (while in another country)...they too read all comments, and love hearing from their friends and family. Please pray the rest of us can keep our health, and that Hannah too will wake feeling better. <br /><br />FYI, the reason for all the narly fast food today was mostly due to a very nasty experience last night with the Chinese food...even Hannah wouldn't eat most of it, and she's from here. <br /><br />Good night prayer warriors. We are so thankful to have you at a time like this!<br /><br /><br />The Campbell Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10122051233027650104noreply@blogger.com10