Thursday, July 16, 2009

Gotcha Day Videos

To say that Monday, July 13, was a whirlwind day would be the understatement of a lifetime. Dawn and I woke up in Beijing at 4:00am, finished packing, and ambled down to the lobby at 5:15. This was the day we had been waiting for.

After a two-hour flight we landed in Chongqing. Hot. Muggy. Barely a breeze. But a really cool city!

We arrived at our hotel with plenty of time to spare. So, we began to unpack, get all the baby's clothes and toys ready, and anything else to keep our minds off the wait. Sure, we waited three years, but that doesn't mean the last three hours are any easier.

Before long, we were off to the Civil Affairs office. The best way to describe what we were feeling is not being exactly sure what it was we were feeling.



That non-feeling feeling grew into nervous anticipation as we sat in the waiting room.



Then, before we knew it, our name was called.



It's amazing how far along Olivia has come since that day. But I'll save those videos for our next post!

14 comments:

Unknown said...

What great videos! I so wish we had videotaped meeting Sarah, but it all went so fast, we just didn't think of it. These memories will be priceless to you and to her!

Tracy said...

Oh it gave me chills! Your little Peanut was so scared (understandably - what a day she had!), but they bounce back quickly. She will cherish that video even thought she is crying in it ;) It's her first time with her Mama and Daddy!

mshel333 said...

So sweet!! Glad you were able to capture the special moment on video!

Dan and Karen said...

So priceless! What a beautiful moment! Congratulations, we are so happy for you!

Karen & Dan

AmyO said...

When they hand over Olivia, it brings back so many memories ... sniff sniff

Beth said...

Oh my goodness the tears and cries are so familiar. I'll never forget the emotions we felt the day we met our little girl. These videos are wonderful. What a gorgeous family you make! Prayers for a safe trip to Guangzhou tomorrow.

Tracy said...

I just watched it again (at home this time, not at work) and yep - I bawled!

Unknown said...

OMG! She is gorgeous!! Bug did the same thing on Gotcha Day...took one look at us and starting crying. I am soo happy for you! I can't wait to see more!

Fliss and Mike Adventures said...

It still seems so surreal... she is so precious..

Lisa said...

Chills and tears as I watch the one of you finally holding your baby girl in your arms! So happy for you two!

Ruth said...

Dawn and Lee she is sooooooo beautiful. I just cried when I saw her with you. It has been sooooo long. But now she's with you forever! Yeah! Now we just need to bring the other two home.

Carl and Heather said...

Olivia is beautiful! We are so, so happy for you all! We loved watching the videos and seeing the pictures...with tears streaming down my face! Looking forward to seeing you three in church! How wonderful to think about the three of you together right now in China!
Carl & Heather (Howse) Herman and family

Maddy and Zeke's Mom said...

Aww, you made me almost cry @ work. So sweet.

mshel333 said...

I just noticed the KFC out the window during your bus ride, just before the tunnel! Wonder if it tastes the same.

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