Early last week, the world was a happy place: the referral rumors were positive with the feeling that the CCAA could do all of July's LIDs and I was still 39. Life was good.
By last Thursday, rumors started flying that the cutoff will only go to July 13 (not good). By Friday, the CCAA's long awaited office move began, essentially closing the CCAA for an undisclosed period of time and delaying the next batch of referrals. As everything CCAA goes, there was no warning and it took days just to get a confirmation that this was indeed happening because, of course, an office move is top secret?? By Saturday, a number of international agencies told their clients that the wait is still anticipated to hit 18 to 24 months. And then there was Sunday, my 40th birthday and a fitting end to a crappy week.
Still not sure exactly when to expect this month's referrals. If everything was on schedule, they would come out by Monday. With the move, it's hard to say. It's rumored that they might not send referrals until the beginning of August which further mucks up my timeline. aauugghh!!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
All American Baby
My August Secret Pal sent Ava this adorable red, white and blue outfit with matching hair clips. I love it! Sammy, the cat, also received a toy. Thank you secret pal!Monday, July 17, 2006
Bowling fun
My nieces, Paige and Bianca, slept over last night and we went bowling today. I haven't been bowling in years- we had lots of fun.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Birthday gift
What a great way to start out my day. My friend Donna stopped by my office first thing this morning with a birthday present for me. How fun! Love the scrapbook and all the embellishments. Can't wait to have Ava home to start her scrapbook.
Donna also made me this beautiful handmade card. It's so pretty.Thank you Donna for being such a great friend and a truly lovely person!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Friday, July 07, 2006
Need 90 days of referrals!
With the last batch of referrals going through June 28, there are now 90 days of referrals left to get to my September 26 LID. Keeping in mind that the referrals have been coming out on the 21st to 25th of the month, here are the possibilities:
July referral = 90 days of referrals in one batch- will never happen.
August referral = 45 day average over two months, although the CCAA has referred more days worth of LIDs than this at one time while trying to catch up in 2003, this is highly unlikely.
September referral = 30 day average over three months, doable.
October referral = 22.5 day average over four months, most likely.
November referral = 18 day average over five months, I consider this my worst case scenerio.
July referral = 90 days of referrals in one batch- will never happen.
August referral = 45 day average over two months, although the CCAA has referred more days worth of LIDs than this at one time while trying to catch up in 2003, this is highly unlikely.
September referral = 30 day average over three months, doable.
October referral = 22.5 day average over four months, most likely.
November referral = 18 day average over five months, I consider this my worst case scenerio.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
It's official... June 28
The next batch of referrals are on their way. This group covered June 16 - 28, 13 days. More importantly, it looks like it includes nearly twice as many referrals as last month. Since up until this past week it looked like referrals would only go through June 23rd, this is a much better show than originally predicted.So, where does this leave me? My best guess right now (I'm feeling pretty optimistic today) is that I will receive my referral in September or October with travel in November or December. As long as I'm back by December 24 (homestudy expires), I won't have to redo any paperwork.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Need to laugh
This bubble wrap site was posted on RQ today, thanks Liz. Make sure you have your volume turned on when you hit the "fresh sheet" button. Very fun and a good stress reliever. I'm thinking I need a new link heading named "Need to laugh" for when this process becomes too much to take. If you know of any fun, silly sites that would make a good addition, please add link to the comments below.
Monday, June 19, 2006
More rumors...
There are now four agencies that have told their clients that this next cutoff will go through LID June 28, 2005. Hopefully, the referrals will be sent by tomorrow and we'll see the CCAA site change. If it turns out to be correct, I view this 13 days of referrals as a huge improvement over the past 4-5 months and hopefully a sign of an increase in referral numbers. This would also keep the current wait at right around 12 months. I'm hoping that the CCAA's plan includes keeping the wait no longer than 12 months. And, yes, I do believe there is and always has been a plan.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Summer Fun
The theme for this month's secret pal exchange is summer fun and as you can see, my secret pal has this down. Wow, Ava is going to love all her sandbox toys. The cat bookmark is adorable- I need to print off a photo of Sammy to add to it. And, I love the notecards as well. Thanks Secret Pal for all the fun summer gifts. We're all set for Ava's first summer home- 2007.
Potato sack baby
I've been following a blog of a family that is currently in China. They have 2 bio daughters, one 3-year old daughter from China and they are there to get their 4th daughter, she's 19-months.
They've been to China before so it looks like they took more time to really plan a vacation prior to receiving their daughter. As part of their trip, they went to the Great Wall but in an area that is not touristy. It's very steep and has a chain that you can hold onto while you're making the 3-mile uphill walk. The father carried the 3-year old up.
The next day they went to another province that required an uphill, 4-mile hike (one way) to get to this beautiful postcard setting. As someone who would have died trying to make either of these hikes, I was really impressed.
Then, about two days later, they get their daughter. After about a day or two the mom writes how sore her back and arms are from carrying the baby. Say it isn't so. If this way-too-fit-mother is feeling pain carrying her daughter, what chance do I have?
How many of you waiting families are carrying around your potato sack baby to prepare? I'm trying to decide whether this will help.
They've been to China before so it looks like they took more time to really plan a vacation prior to receiving their daughter. As part of their trip, they went to the Great Wall but in an area that is not touristy. It's very steep and has a chain that you can hold onto while you're making the 3-mile uphill walk. The father carried the 3-year old up.
The next day they went to another province that required an uphill, 4-mile hike (one way) to get to this beautiful postcard setting. As someone who would have died trying to make either of these hikes, I was really impressed.
Then, about two days later, they get their daughter. After about a day or two the mom writes how sore her back and arms are from carrying the baby. Say it isn't so. If this way-too-fit-mother is feeling pain carrying her daughter, what chance do I have?
How many of you waiting families are carrying around your potato sack baby to prepare? I'm trying to decide whether this will help.
Lost in translation
As those of you who follow the Rumor Queen know, the rumors were all over the place this past week. One or two agencies told their families that they were told the CCAA would change their site on Saturday so many families have been stalking the site for the past 24 hours. Nothing.
One women posted on RQ that she went on the CCAA site at 4:30 am eastern time and the site design was different but when she went back to it, the site was back to what it normally looks like. Of course all the waiting families assumed that a "change" to the site would be an update of dossiers reviewed, possibly dossiers referred or maybe the elusive "new rules" for adopting from China. Maybe what they intended all along was a redesign of the site.
One women posted on RQ that she went on the CCAA site at 4:30 am eastern time and the site design was different but when she went back to it, the site was back to what it normally looks like. Of course all the waiting families assumed that a "change" to the site would be an update of dossiers reviewed, possibly dossiers referred or maybe the elusive "new rules" for adopting from China. Maybe what they intended all along was a redesign of the site.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Age by Chocolate
Sent by my aunt, to my dad, to me...
Don't tell me your age; you probably would tell a falsehood anyway-but the Hershey Man will know!
YOUR AGE BY CHOCOLATE MATH
This is pretty neat. DON'T CHEAT BY SCROLLING DOWN FIRST! It takes less than a minute.
Work this out as you read ...Be sure you don't read the bottom until you've worked it out!
1. First of all, pick the number of times a week that you would like to have chocolate (more than once but less than 10)
2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold)
3. Add 5
4. Multiply it by 50 -- I'll wait while you get the calculator
5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1756 ....If you haven't, add 1755.
6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born.You should have a three digit number
The first digit of this was your original number(I.e., how many times you want to have chocolate each week.)The next two numbers are . . .
YOUR AGE! (Oh YES, it is!!!!!)THIS IS THE ONLY YEAR (2006) IT WILL EVER WORK, SO SPREAD IT AROUND WHILE IT LASTS
Don't tell me your age; you probably would tell a falsehood anyway-but the Hershey Man will know!
YOUR AGE BY CHOCOLATE MATH
This is pretty neat. DON'T CHEAT BY SCROLLING DOWN FIRST! It takes less than a minute.
Work this out as you read ...Be sure you don't read the bottom until you've worked it out!
1. First of all, pick the number of times a week that you would like to have chocolate (more than once but less than 10)
2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold)
3. Add 5
4. Multiply it by 50 -- I'll wait while you get the calculator
5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1756 ....If you haven't, add 1755.
6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born.You should have a three digit number
The first digit of this was your original number(I.e., how many times you want to have chocolate each week.)The next two numbers are . . .
YOUR AGE! (Oh YES, it is!!!!!)THIS IS THE ONLY YEAR (2006) IT WILL EVER WORK, SO SPREAD IT AROUND WHILE IT LASTS
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Home improvements
Since it appears I have some extra time on my hands, I've decided to start a home improvement project. I've been thinking about this for a few weeks and I think the living room/dining room area will be the next project.A few of the changes I'm thinking about include new curtains and the addition of valences, possibly adding a ledge to the windows and recovering the seat cushions on the dining room set to match curtains.
The artwork will definitely come down and I still don't have any ideas on what will replace it. I'm also considering selling the couch and chair. The space isn't that large so I thought some chairs might be more flexible than the couch. Since I'm trying to keep this project from getting too expensive, new furniture might not be an option.
I really like these ultra suede chairs that I found at Sam's Club. They're a khaki green although they appear more tan/grey in photo. I was thinking of getting two of these with the leather chair shown below.
This chair is really comfortable and I think the chocolate brown compliments the other chairs nicely. I haven't made any decisions but would love to get started in the next few weeks.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Friday Five
In my August DTC group, a member of the group, Marie, has been posting the Friday Five questions for families to get to know one another. I thought I'd start posting my responses to my blog as well.
1. Who is travelling to China to get the baby?
I will be traveling with both my parents and I have to add that they are VERY excited about going.
2. Do you have a packing list ready?
No, I figure that will be a fun thing to do once I'm about a month from referral. My mother, on the other hand, has had an ongoing list for months and revises it often. :D
3. Have you purchased anything for your trip yet?
Yes. I have a lot of baby stuff including disposable bibs, washcloths, changing pads, etc. I also bought a new set of luggage.
4. Are you planning to bring a baby carrier? if yes, which type?
Yes. I purchased the Hip Hammock.
5. Do you have any travel tips/warnings to share? (It can be something you learned on a previous adoption trip in another group or in your other travels.)
Nothing that we probably all haven't heard before.
1. Who is travelling to China to get the baby?
I will be traveling with both my parents and I have to add that they are VERY excited about going.
2. Do you have a packing list ready?
No, I figure that will be a fun thing to do once I'm about a month from referral. My mother, on the other hand, has had an ongoing list for months and revises it often. :D
3. Have you purchased anything for your trip yet?
Yes. I have a lot of baby stuff including disposable bibs, washcloths, changing pads, etc. I also bought a new set of luggage.
4. Are you planning to bring a baby carrier? if yes, which type?
Yes. I purchased the Hip Hammock.
5. Do you have any travel tips/warnings to share? (It can be something you learned on a previous adoption trip in another group or in your other travels.)
Nothing that we probably all haven't heard before.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Congratulations to the Grad!
Alex graduated from high school this week- whoohoo! We're all very proud of him. And, I think all of us who attended the graduation should also be congratulated for sitting on metal bleachers, at the end of May, in Arizona, for 3 1/2 hours.
Day 1 of Month 9
Today marks the beginning of the ninth month since my LID of 9/26. The CCAA is supposed to make some announcement this week. There is much speculation on what this will be.
Will they talk about the slow down, about what timeframe their expecting the program to continue at or will it be more of the same "more families adopting domestically, less babies being abandoned." Although I'm sure both of these things are a small factor, I simply don't believe that there was suddenly such a drastic increase in domestic adoptions or decrease in abandonments to account for the quick change in timelines we've seen since Oct/Nov 2005.
I do believe the Hunan baby trafficking has caused the biggest impact on the slowdown but I would be surprised to see the CCAA talk about this.
There is also some thought that they might add some additional restrictions to adopting families with the families that are already LID having to meet the new criteria. The most talked about at this time is regarding weight.
I have to admit that I'm a bit nervous about what they're going to say. I know that if they're going to increase the timeline to some unreasonable wait (say 18-24 months) that it would be better to just know this but it would still be a huge disappointment to not have Ava home by the holidays.
Will they talk about the slow down, about what timeframe their expecting the program to continue at or will it be more of the same "more families adopting domestically, less babies being abandoned." Although I'm sure both of these things are a small factor, I simply don't believe that there was suddenly such a drastic increase in domestic adoptions or decrease in abandonments to account for the quick change in timelines we've seen since Oct/Nov 2005.
I do believe the Hunan baby trafficking has caused the biggest impact on the slowdown but I would be surprised to see the CCAA talk about this.
There is also some thought that they might add some additional restrictions to adopting families with the families that are already LID having to meet the new criteria. The most talked about at this time is regarding weight.
I have to admit that I'm a bit nervous about what they're going to say. I know that if they're going to increase the timeline to some unreasonable wait (say 18-24 months) that it would be better to just know this but it would still be a huge disappointment to not have Ava home by the holidays.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Disappointing day
This month's 9 day batch of referrals was definitely a let down. They went from June 7 to 15. The earlier rumors had anticipated that the CCAA would make it through June 20-21, completing two full weeks. Not great but it at least left hope that next month's referrals could make it through mid-July.
The Russian government announced today that "Moscow will stop foreigners adopting children outside officially registered agencies in a step toward limiting the number of children who leave Russia". I don't know what impact this will have on people who are currently in that program but I'm sure the families that are already in process have to be really worried. That's a terrible situation to be in. The Eastern European countries are not known for their compassion or understanding for either the children or families of international adoption.
So, compared to the terrible blow that the families waiting for children from Russia felt today, waiting longer to complete an adoption in China isn't that bad. Although the CCAA hasn't exactly been forthcoming with information, they do seem to want the program to continue and, even though the referral batches have been very small these past three months (5, 7, 9 days), they are, at the very least, still referring children.
The Russian government announced today that "Moscow will stop foreigners adopting children outside officially registered agencies in a step toward limiting the number of children who leave Russia". I don't know what impact this will have on people who are currently in that program but I'm sure the families that are already in process have to be really worried. That's a terrible situation to be in. The Eastern European countries are not known for their compassion or understanding for either the children or families of international adoption.
So, compared to the terrible blow that the families waiting for children from Russia felt today, waiting longer to complete an adoption in China isn't that bad. Although the CCAA hasn't exactly been forthcoming with information, they do seem to want the program to continue and, even though the referral batches have been very small these past three months (5, 7, 9 days), they are, at the very least, still referring children.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Secret Pal strikes again
My August Secret Pal sent us these great gifts this month. The hooded pool towel is too cute. It's a flower top. Along with the purple sunglasses, Ava will be set for some summer fun. The magnets are already on the frig. Thanks so much.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Two at the Zoo
My twin nieces, Kayla and Kenzie, turned two this week. We celebrated at the Zoo last Sunday. Of course it turned out to be the hottest day of the year so far at about 99 degrees. The girls were real troopers - unlike the adults who complained about the heat constantly- myself included ;)Wednesday, April 26, 2006
I've been reviewed
The September LID people have officially left the review room and entered the matching room. This is a big milestone. It basically means that my dossier has been reviewed and approved for adoption by the CCAA. Now it sits in the matching room along with all the dossiers for June, July, August & September. My best guess is that there are about 5000-6000 dossiers on top of mine. I'm still hopeful for a September referral but not holding my breath.Sunday, April 23, 2006
Two new US citizens
At our AZ FCC waiting families dinner last night, we welcomed home two of Arizona's newest residents and two very happy families. Both of the girls are so beautiful. It was so fun seeing the babies and hearing about the great times both families had in China.
Re-fingerprinting
I went in yesterday to update my fingerprints for my orphan petition (I171). Good news, they haven't changed.
Since my last appointment (Feb, 2005) took about 3 hours, I went in all prepared to spend my Saturday there. I had my book, notepad, sweater (incase in was cold inside) and a bottle of water. There was no one there. I walked in, filled out a quick form and was immediately brought back for fingerprinting. I should be good for another 15 months. I know I've said this before given this is my eighth fingerprinting since starting this adoption, but, this is my FINAL fingerprinting.
Since my last appointment (Feb, 2005) took about 3 hours, I went in all prepared to spend my Saturday there. I had my book, notepad, sweater (incase in was cold inside) and a bottle of water. There was no one there. I walked in, filled out a quick form and was immediately brought back for fingerprinting. I should be good for another 15 months. I know I've said this before given this is my eighth fingerprinting since starting this adoption, but, this is my FINAL fingerprinting.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Ladybug earrings
My parents gave me these adorable earrings for Easter. I figure I'll wear them to China then put them away for Ava.Pooh outfit
Found this Winnie the Pooh outfit at Mervyns last night. I've started purchasing 18 and 24 month stuff only- actually, I've been trying not to purchase anything but...Monday, April 17, 2006
Baby Mulan from my Secret Pal
My August secret pal sent Ava the most adorable Mulan baby doll
. She is so cute and I'm sure Ava will have lots of fun with her.My Pal also put together a booklet about the history of Mulan- what a great idea. She researched the story and compiled the info herself. Thank you, Secret Pal, for being so thoughtful. Once again, you've been a great pal!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Easter Brunch
To celebrate Easter, my family went for brunch today at a golf club that's about five minutes from my home. It was a beautiful day
to eat outside. The twins just wanted to run free. They loved the ducks and huge fish that were in the pond. The carp were about 20" long and came right up to the edge of the pond to get food. I'm gonna guess that we weren't the first to throw them food.
Alex trying to keep hold of the twins, Kenzie & Kayla. They're a real handful these days.
Bianca and Paige had their face's painted.
This is my sister Sharon, brother-in-law Steve with their three children.
My mom and sister, Debi. We just found out this week that Ava's newest cousin, due in late August, is going to be a boy. We're all happy about this.
My dad with nephew Alex.
The girls with the Easter bunny.
to eat outside. The twins just wanted to run free. They loved the ducks and huge fish that were in the pond. The carp were about 20" long and came right up to the edge of the pond to get food. I'm gonna guess that we weren't the first to throw them food.
Alex trying to keep hold of the twins, Kenzie & Kayla. They're a real handful these days.
Bianca and Paige had their face's painted.
This is my sister Sharon, brother-in-law Steve with their three children.
My mom and sister, Debi. We just found out this week that Ava's newest cousin, due in late August, is going to be a boy. We're all happy about this.
My dad with nephew Alex.
The girls with the Easter bunny.
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