GOTCHA DAY!!!

Good Morning America!

At 2:ooPM we met the Thompson Family (who saved our bacon when our camera ran out of card space), then headed out to get our sweeties! We arrived early and had to wait for the babies to arrive. Unfortunately, there was a communication error and the Thompson's son was not on the van. Fortunately, he will arrive tomorrow morning at 9:30AM. My heart goes out to Wade and Mari who have to wait another day...but all good things come to those who wait! Abbie was dressed in a sweet orange short and t-shirt set and brand new pink shoes with lots of sparkly diamonds. She is so proud of those shoes! At first, she wasn't too thrilled to meet me and waved her hand "no" at me. After a 45 minute crying jag and half a bottle of bubbles blown by Ericka and Andrew Thompson (also 13), Abbie settled down in my arms. We even saw the hint of a smile. The nanny gave us special gifts from the orphanage and Ms. Guo sent Abbie a sent gift of a silver rattle bracelet and necklace to show her love. We gave the nanny our gifts and spent some time getting to know more about Abbie's likes and daily habits. I had a little pink back pack filled with things for her to do. She is so teeny that when I put it on her back, she almost toppled over backwards! By the time the nanny left, Abbie was settled into my arms and was very, very curious about EVERYTHING when we went outside. On the van, I held her against my chest, kissed her softly and she fell asleep. From that moment on, she was my girl!

Back at the hotel, she helped me change her diaper and wet clothes from LOTS of drool. She is pretty loud due to her cleft palate and I will have to get used to her snoring! She LOVES books and musical toys. We bought her a musical push button toy and rented a stroller in Guangzhou and she thinks it's the greatest thing ever! Mommy and Abbie also bought matching shoes. She really loves shoes. During dinner at Lucy's place, Abbie surprised me by finishing off an entire bottle of vanilla Pedialyte and TWO bowls full of chicken congee. She is a good eater and has no problems as long as the food is pureed. The nanny is not aware of any food allergies, so we are going to try yogurt, eggs and pureed watermelon for breakfast. Yum! At dinner, Abbie's personality really came out. She smiled a lot, rubbed noses with me, and constantly kicked her tiny legs and feet with joy. What a delight!! It's only been four hours and she is a happy, happy girl. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. She clearly enjoys life and has the happiest eyes I have ever seen when she smiles. We are truly blessed! Back at the hotel, she helped me put her pajamas on and I rocked her in my arms. Once she started to look sleepy, I kissed her good night, set her in her crib and tucked her blankie up to her cheek. She was out within minutes! Woo hoo! She is such a petite little peanut and her arms and legs remind me so much of our sweet Lucy. Abbie has itty bitty feet though. Lucy's have always been good sized! :) As for clothes, she fits in small sized diapers and 18 - 24 month clothes at 2 - 3/4 old! She has some catching up to do in the chunking department, but she is very smart, curious and I can already tell, mischievious! Perfect fit! Enjoy the pictures!! We love you Daddy, Kyle, Gracie, Lucy and all our family. We can't wait for you to meet her.

Love and Kisses from Tracie, Ericka and finally, Miss Abbie Le Qian Laughlin! XOXOXO