Gift #526- A Heart-Shaped Haircut

Bo's caregiver had his hair cut into the shape of a heart for his "gotcha day".  It was really cute.  He was also wearing a brand new pair of shoes for this special occasion.  He was traveling light- just his clothes and new shoes.  We both left the government building that day exceedingly more rich than when we had entered.

Gift #525- This Face

We were sitting at a government office building waiting for Bo to arrive.  I heard some footsteps in the hall and looked anxiously at the door.  And then, there he was!  I couldn't believe it.  I wanted to run and squeeze him so tight, but I didn't want to scare him.  I stayed in my seat.  His caregiver brought him to me.  He clung to her tightly, but smiled so sweetly.  His caregiver must have told him that I was his mama, because he looked right at me and said "mama".  I got right down on the floor and squeezed him so tight.  I couldn't stop looking at him and touching his little face.  I couldn't believe that this little treasure was mine.  His Papa sent some Matchbox cars for him to play with.  He played with the cars as I completed some paperwork.  He gave his caregivers one final squeeze, and then he was mine.  As I type, I still can't believe how God blessed me on this day.

Gift #524- Friends That Love You All the Way to China and Back

These 2 amazing ladies took time out of their busy lives to meet me in China for Bo's Gotcha Day.  They were such a comforting presence during such an anxiety-filled time. We had a wonderful time together.  We laughed and cried and laughed some more.  This picture was taken as we were waiting for Bo to arrive.  We were all so excited as we waited to see his sweet face for the first time.

Gift #523- A Dream Come True

I took these photos as I was leaving to go get my boy from China!  I was feeling anxious and excited.  It was hard leaving the kids, but I knew that it would just be for a short while and that I would be coming home with a treasure.

Gift #522- Girls Day

Macy had her first pedicure a few weeks back.  We had a great time together.  She giggled as they massaged her feet.  I think that I have created a monster though- she can't wait to go back. 

Gift #521- Hometown Radio Stations

I love being home and being able to listen to my favorite radio station-  92.5 WPAP.  As a kid, we would listen to the Gospel Greats on Sunday morning as we got ready for church.  In the afternoons we would listen to the American Country Countdown with Bob Kingsley.  As I was driving to pick up lunch yesterday, Mr. Bob Kingsley was announcing the top 2 songs of the week.  Made me smile!  Happy Memories for sure!

Gift #520- The Rat Pack

Jack and Josh made some very good friends in Iwakuni.  They made some very happy memories together.  We will miss these kids for sure.  Hank and Jack stayed behind in Iwakuni a few weeks to get the house packed up and cleaned.  These are pictures from Jack's farewell.  I might have cried my eyes out when I saw them.  I am so very thankful for the friendships that we have made along the way. 

Gift #519- Sonic- America's Drive In

Our first stop on the way to Panama City was Sonic!  Oh Sonic, we have missed you so!

Gift #518- Welcome Home Banners

We had a very warm welcome home!  Pat picked us up at the Atlanta airport.  He had Chick-fil-a waiting for us in the car.  The drive to Panama City the following day was wonderful.  Wide Open spaces and lots of green!  We arrived home to this welcome banner hanging on the back door.  It feels good to be home.

Gift #517- 'Merica

It was hard to leave this little place that we have come to love.  

But we are so happy to be heading home!

Gift #516- One Step Closer

That's our little guy!  Right in the middle!  Our new friend Mike Rottina (back row) is in China this week.  He raised money to take some of the kids out for their birthdays!  This is such a treat for the kids.  They went to a park and then to McDonalds!  We received our final approval from US customs this week!  Our last approval gave us permission to adopt 1 child from China.  This approval gave us permission to specifically adopt Bo!  His name is on the approval notice!  The notice is officially called a Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative.  I just love the sound of that!