Oh Baby!

 

Still no baby :( The mama is very uncomfortable, but oh so cute. Come on baby!

Pretty in Pink

Avery's room is ready! It's been ready for awhile. It's a good thing too b/c once baseball season started we've had very little time to do anything extra around here. I finally got around to taking pictures and now it will become the central location for all packing. Last night, I printed the FIVE page packing list and have already begun checking things off the list. Good thing I love lists and like to pack ;)

The nursery has seen some sweet changes since it was occupied by Ryan.

I made the fabric "A" over her dresser, but the other "A" was a gift, it is for all Avery's hair bows. Thanks Michelle :)

The "Avery" banner is from Courtney and displayed at my shower. Thank you!

Now that we no longer have a guest room :(
 The futon will have to do.

After the adoption paperwork was complete and the real waiting began, I put my graphic design skills to work and created some art for her walls.

 Owen painted this in 2nd grade. I love it and saved it for her room.

 

This is Avery's original referral picture. I am sad that the file size is so small and I will likely not get another version, it's one of the youngest pictures we have. I could just eat her up!

 These colorful lanterns hang above her crib.

Oh, how I am praying that you are a good sleeper, Avery! This crib has held each of my precious sons and now I pray you find comfort and rest here as well.
When our journey to find a child already waiting, I assumed our daughter would be closer to 3 because there is less interest in older children, I am feeling very blessed to experience her 2nd year and have another one in a crib!

Mother's Day

It was such a JOY to come home on mother's day and be embraced by most of my boys ;) and hubby.

Being away always helps me be even more grateful for all that God has given me.

They were very wound up ALL evening which made having my parents and Lissa and Alex over for Mother's day dinner a little nuttier than usual. I didn't think about that when it was all planned (not by me).

My niece/nephew graciously awaited my return. Now she/he can get the show on the road ;) We are ready to meet you, little one! I am so excited my sister will experience the joys and lessons of motherhood. We are both so blessed and loved by our mom. We are lucky to have such a wonderful example. I am also so thankful for my mother-in law and EJ's grandmothers. Happy Mother's Day!

Glitch

We have received word that the US Consulate in Ch!na is temporarily closed due to "facilities closings." This will most likely delay our Article 5 "pick up" date next Wed. Sad!
Please pray for the 70+ families unable to come home until they reopen and issue visas. Oh my word!

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift

A weekend away with all these lovely ladies. What more could a mom ask for?

(left to right) me, Michelle, Courtney, Becca,Kathy (holding Mary's baby), Mary, Kate, Christy

I am so blessed by these women. We have known each other for 16+ years! We get together every year give or take a few months depending on baby arrivals ;) Christy did an amazing job as hostess and I couldn't have been more relaxed and thankful for my mommy duties to be put on hold for the weekend.

They even surprised me with a showering of girly gifts and gift cards for Avery. 

My first poolside shower :)

 

Courtney and Michelle did a perfect job of recapping the whole weekend and since I opted to leave my camera behind I will send you that way :)

Next time I get on a plane I will be heading to China!!