Our Journey to Bring Our Son Home . . .


June 29, 2009

Brett's Family Day Part I



While I have a few minutes, I wanted to post a quick update. Russ will try to upload some video later tonight and fill in some details.
This morning we left the hotel around 9:40 to go to the Civil Affairs Office. Six of our eight families were receiving their children there. Four of the children arrived right away. We had to wait for almost an hour along with another family. Boy, I thought the last year was tough! Our guide called to check on their status and told us Brett was crying in the car. Why did she have to tell us that? Tears started right away as I knew he had been taken from his nanny at New Day. His home orphanage wanted to be the ones to deliver him to us.
Finally, the van pulled up, and Brett was hysterical. Poor little guy was overwhelmed without a familiar face. He went to me right away, and we calmed him down with our poor Chinese and some M&Ms. He even shared with us and anyone within arms reach.
After our quick reunion, we headed for the family photo for his adoption paperwork tomorrow and back to the hotel. By this time, Brett was over-stimulated by the noise and events from our walk home. Upon entering the room, he found his suitcase and proceeded to pick out a Cars shirt and underwear. (Addison, you have a buddy here!) We then played with every car and train in our suitcase until Russ got out the Bugles. Boy was Brett amused with food you could play with. He had a Bugle on each finger. We later ordered some noodles for Brett. He settled for a banana and french fries. Like Abigail, he loves ketchup and finished it off with a spoon. Better head to Sam's for Ketchup!
Nap time was a no-go. He became very upset and wanted out of the room. We decided a nap was not necessary today and started to sing ABCs. He sang right along with us until he noticed the phone. He has "pretend" called his sisters and half of his friends I am sure.
Brett has the sweetest voice, cutest laugh, and the biggest heart. No matter what he is eating, he tries to share. So far, he seems comfortable with both Russ and I. We hope this continues as he is one heavy boy to carry without a break. We'll try to get him on the scale later today.
We thank God this long journey has ended and pray for our new journey ahead of us. We look forward to updating more later. We are off for more paperwork. My apologies for any errors in this rushed post.
Blessings,
Cindy

8 comments:

Mandi said...

It breaks my heart that they would not let his nanny bring him to you. I am sure it would have made it much easier on him. However, he is with you now and that is right where he belongs. God is sooo good. I am looking forward to seeing more family moments.

Hugs,
Mandi

MJ said...

What a blessing you were able to spend that time with him at ND!! I'm sure that made all the difference in the world during the trip to Henan. God truly takes care of His little ones. He's finally and forever with his Mom and Dad. Praise the Lord!!

Carrie said...

I'm so thankful he's with you! And, you can see how he cheered right up when he met you. God has and will continue to protect his heart through all of this. Love you guys... C.

The Lewises said...

Ahhh...the most important phase of your journey has begun...with M&Ms and Bugles! Brilliant choice. Our kids all have their demons to overcome. Poor Brett, someone made a bad choice lettimg him ride without his nanny. :(

We know you and Russ will work your magic, and he'll be happy soon. Post more from Henan!

Anonymous said...

Thank goodness you were able to meet him earlier @ New Day. I know he found comfort when he saw you today. I love his smile, he looks so happy playing with you & Russ. YEAH! We're so happy today has finally come!!

Tami said...

What a blessing it is that you were able to spend time with him at New Day and that you quickly became his security in the exchange...PTL!

I LOVE seeing you all together. Thanks so much for sharing your special moments...your slide shows and posts are great!

Sending love and prayers,
Tami

Jen said...

Sorry to hear about the rough transition for him, but so glad that you were able to bring him comfort. And yay M&Ms! We are so happy for you guys and can't wait to hear more about your adventures.

Karen said...

We were devestated when Mary told us they took Brett from her at the train station. We really prayed for him.
Then to see the smile on his face when he was with you was such a comfort to us.
I can't wait to see what God has planned for this precious little boy.