Day 3 (Gotcha Day)

Just sitting here listening to the unbelievable sounds of our little Lacey sleeping. All the waiting- over. All the wondering - done. What does it sound like when she cries? Laughs? Talks? Thank the Lord, we know now!!

It's really hard to fully describe this day. It isn't like a birth day, but it is similar. It started just like yesterday. Buffet breakfast like mad! But it was all so different. Eating wasn't quite as easy, as it all had to pass through a ball of nerves! We came back to our room, gathered our stuff, and spent a few precious moments together with God. Then, it was down to the lobby to head out.

We showed up at the Civil Affairs Office a little early. We waited about 30 long minutes in a board room. Then, the sounds of activity, children being hustled into the room, and there she was! We weren't expecting Chariots of Fire, running into our arms, shouts of "Mommy!! Daddy!!" and we didn't get it. She was understandably sad, confused, and upset. It only lasted for a little while, though. Before too long, she was settling in, smiling, talking, and giggling...and we were falling head-over-heels in love with this little angel.

We had a few more stops to make, which featured an alarming lack of air conditioning, at least 34,000 stairs, and to ever-present joy of nervously crossing the street. But before too long, we were back at the hotel and up in the room. What a day!!! Oh, wait...it was only 12:15!

Bath time was an experience. She was none too thrilled! But all worth it for the Baby Magic smell and the sight of Cindy cuddling with her in her towel - such indelible memories being made! Then it was nap time...for all three of us!

Dinner was much more familiar - pepperoni pizza at Pizza Hut! Lacey did just fine, eating with the little fork they gave her. Funny thing, though - we left a tip on the table, and the waitress literally ran out of the restaurant to give the money back. What?? I told her to keep it!!

And that was about it. We've enjoyed playing with her. She LOVES playing silly stuff with Daddy, and, well, that's kind of my style! She is major into her snacks, too, which is hilarious. She seems to be attaching really well to both of us, which is just great. Highlight of the night, though, was Face Time/Skype with our entire family. The love was genuinely felt 7000 miles away.

So that's it. The obnoxious snores of this dude is about to blend with Lacey's sweet sounds. Poor Cindy, who sleeps quiet like the angel she is. Thanks for your continued prayers for us on this life-changing journey.

Thanks for reading,
Daniel