Tuesday, October 16, 2007

~ LOG IN DATE ~

I was VERY unsure about writing this post. I didn't want people to think I was bragging or however else this could be taken...but, here I go!


Last year our dossier was logged into the CCAA on this date! We had a small celebration, ordered Chinese food and breathed a sigh of relief that all of the paperwork was done, accepted and actually IN China!


We arrived home with our China Princess 11 months later to our great surprise! Even before submitting our dossier I always had this "feeling" to look on the SN list (special needs) or WC list (waiting child) and I did look; but no one struck me as the ONE until I read "Dan Dan's" profile. She had a VSD ("hole in the heart" and what they called a "hemangioma" on the forehead) - scarey stuff to someone who isn't familiar with these conditions.


"Thanks" to two very special little people I was familiar with VSD ~ my little "E" was born with this and another heart defect; and to Miss "M" who was born with a hemangioma on her ear lob. I knew from "experience" that these 2 SN's were something we could "deal" with...don't get me wrong - I was SCARED!!!


When I got the call that we were chosen for "Dan Dan", I actually said to the woman on the phone, "how bad is the hemangioma, will I be shocked when I see the picture?" ~ I felt guilty for asking, but I wanted to prepare myself.


Well, as you know from my October 4th post, Mia's once huge hole in her heart is now the size of a pin hole! And, you've seen (MANY) pictures of my girl (I know I take a lot!) and you can hardly see the "hemangioma" or strawberry birthmark on her forehead ~ it mainly comes out when she is mad!!! Which does happen ... among all of her smiles!


I guess what I'm trying to say is...adoption is such a rollercoaster of emotions and questions and "blind faith" and most of all HOPE.


I'm not saying, by any means that every story turns out as perfect as ours, but in your heart you know what you can handle ~ even though I had experience with these "SN"'s I contacted many professionals and got MANY opinions ~ as EVERYONE should do!!!


Our story is ...well, our story and looking back I am proud and relieved that I followed my heart and all those "feelings" and that my wonderful husband had faith in me and my "feelings". Always check the SN's list (or WC list) and absorb and learn all that's happening around you (as I did with "E" and "M" 's conditions) ~ you don't want to miss out on your China Princess!



























"Screaming Mimi" ~ cute even when angry!!


*Special thanks to my little "E" and Miss "M" , without you I'm not sure what would have happened ~ thank God for you...for all of you :) I will be forever greatful...

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a beautifully written post. I have tears in my eyes. I will always be amazed and proud of the way you followed your heart. I am so happy for you and for us too, for now we all have Mia in our lives. Much love always...

Sophie's Mom said...

Congratulations on your precious girl. What a perfect fit for your family. You were fortunate that you didn't have to wait long. :)

Anonymous said...

Wow Jo, this was so beautifully written! It just goes to show that you need to follow your heart and to truly "believe". She is a blessing to be in yours and our lives as well!

Love, Aunt Michie :)

Anonymous said...

It's true, even when Mia is crying she is beautiful! She is an angel. However our children come to us, whether it be biologically or via adoption, each child is a unique individual expression of God's love.

Anonymous said...

I am so ELATED and OVERJOYED you followed your heart... and it lead right to Mia!
What a wonderful blessing she is and it shows that not matter what the situation... LOVE always conquers in the end.
Mia, "E" and "Miss M" is proof of that!

Lori said...

Don't feel bad for any of this, it's your story and your life and this is how it was meant to be.
Your daughter is perfect and meant to be with your family, that I am very happy for you!
How blessed you are!

3 Peanuts said...

Congratulations on this anniversary. I know with the long waits...it feels funny to celebrate your joy. But this match was the perfect one for you all. I am so happy for you:) Mia is darling and I love checking on on her.

Kim

Dawn said...

What a beautifully written post. You are an encouragement to all of us on this journey.

Reesie said...

Hi Joanne - it has been a long time, and I AM SO THRILLED your daughter is home! WOW - so much has happened since I have been "gone". We've moved..lots of new happenings. I'll update the full story soon, but yours is THE BEST!

Theresa (was from Tampa)
www.expectingfromchina.blogspot.com