Passing the time

What have I been doing to pass the time? Not enough it seems some times. Ava and I have been trying to get the house in order. Well, mostly me but she does give me encouragement by laying on my lap when I take a break. Everyone says to get as much done as possible now before Sophie comes home because then I won't have time. Good advice. I'm busy trying to organize and de-clutter on the weekends. And paint. And do yardwork. And take naps. Sometimes the naps happen first and then the other stuff not so much.

I have discovered Ebay - both buying and selling. Unfortunately, more buying than selling but little by little my extra Creative Memories inventory is going to better homes where they won't be neglected.

I have also discovered the Ipod and online computer games. No day is complete without a few games of Bejeweled 2 on the old laptop.

I've also been trying to stay connected with my China mom friends. In September, I hosted the girlies and their moms at my house for lunch and a trip to the nearby playground. We had great weather and everyone seemed to have a blast. There were eight girls and eight moms and moms-to-be. How quickly the girls grow up! I also got to spend an evening with Miss Malia. How much she has picked up in the six months she has been here. We played outside, watched Ni Hao Kai Lan, ate dinner, watched Ni Hao Kai Lan, took a bath, watched Ni Hao Kai Lan, had a snack, read stories, and she went to bed. I can't wait to spend my evenings like that!

Work has been busy, well, constantly. There used to be a little less action during the summer but not this year. Luckily, I managed it well and was awarded with an in-position promotion in early September. The pay raise is certainly a big help.

I'm going to start working on Sophie's 100 Wishes quilt. Thanks to everyone who has submitted a fabric square and your wish. If you would still like to, it's not too late. Let me know if you need to be reminded of the details.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. You are in mine!

Deb

Where is she?!!

I don't know about you but I was not ready to see the snow showers yesterday. Winter is inevitable and I am having a hard time understanding where this year has gone! Time has passed so quickly and yet I'm still waiting for my little one! In fact, today is the 30-month anniversary of my paperwork being logged into China's system.

2 and 1/2 years.

One quarter of a decade.

About 1 and 1/2 years too long!

As the holidays approach, I think more and more about her. I've picked up a few things for her (and myself) this last week to help pacify the longing I am feeling for her. Today it was a Mulan and Mulan II DVD combo set from Target. Last week it was shopping cart with fake food, a Little People toy set, and a bag of round plastic balls that I can't wait to pick up daily from all corners of the house. Next week, who knows what it will be.

How much longer will I be waiting? Good question. With each month that passes I have a better idea. There are no rumors about how far out they are going to match this month. Last month, they finished through Febuary 15, 2006. My date is April 27 or 71 more days. My best estimate based on recent trends of matching 6 days per month is early October or November of next year. No one knows if they will speed up or slow down.

A referral in early September is a possibility and would be the best 40th birthday present ever! I can deal with a referral in early December if I have to but if it moves into 2010 I'm not sure what I'll do. Then we're talking about a whole new decade and that makes my stomach turn a bit.

Yes, I know it will all be worth it but this adoption roller coaster ride has its ups and downs and twists and turns. It makes my heart race with anticipation and my head feel a little dizzy at times and even a little sick to my stomach on occasion. I just know though that when I have Sophie in my arms I'll be able to say that it was the best ride of my life!!

Love to you all!