Goodnight From Guangzhou

It's a bittersweet night in Guangzhou. The kiddos are asleep and we are finishing up the packing. It drizzled all day today. As we walked the stone streets we realized this may be the last time we see this beautiful island. We tried to take it all in and enjoy the peace and quiet. We know the distractions will come as soon as we land on US soil. A friend told me this would be a beautiful time of bonding as a new family of four. I am so thankful Hoot came with me. We have experienced so much together as a family. I would have been sad if he missed it. We left as a happy family of three and we will return as a happy family of four! We are ready to come home, but we are sad too. This is a part of Libbie's past and her forever. We didn't visit the orphanage. We were too tired and didn't want to cry anymore. We didn't want to confuse her anymore than she already is. I know I have said it in previous posts, but it has been such a blessing to watch this little girl transform before our very eyes. She was a frail withdrawn little girl with such despair and fear in her eyes when we met her. Each day she has come out of her shell and we leave with a little ball of fire. While she still won't let me hold her, she does say mamma and blow me kisses if I am far enough away. I have enjoyed watching my husband change diapers, snuggle her and apply makeup.... things I never thought I would witness and all his manly dignity went right out the window as she wrapped him tighter and tighter around her little finger. She kisses him and throws the biggest fit if he shows ANYONE more attention than her. This will change when we get home and she begins to trust that he won't leave her. And Hoot.... what can I say??? Just amazing. It is truly a blessing to be his mommy. We could not be prouder of this little boy. He has prayed the most mature prayers while we've been here. He has been selfless and giving. He has had to share (which he's never had to do before) and he's done it with such a sweet spirit. He is so proud that his little Mei Mei loves him. He does however love to tell ANYONE who will listen, that his sissy doesn't like his mommy... He's told strangers on the elevator, waiters, doctors, cab drivers... you name it... The good thing about sissy not liking me right now is that I can shower him with my attention and he feels special. Lambert told me that come Friday morning, he is heading out and leaving me with her all day. He's going to take Hoot somewhere special so it will be me and her.... PRAY.. It's either sink or swim. Any tips would be most appreciative. i think she is coming around and I think that it's because I have kept a distance between her and I. I cheer her on and clap for her, but from a distance. I want her to come to me when she is ready and on her terms. I don't want to force myself on her. I am the one who took her from her nannies arms so she may see me as a threat. I catch her watching me when she doesn't know I can see her. She doesn't look away anymore, but she won't come to me. She will let me squirt sanitizer in her hands and lotion... but that's about it. Oh she will take food from me too..

All I know is that God is with me (us) even in China. He goes before us and prepares the way. He has a plan and He will accomplish it. He's not done with Libbie and He's not done with me.

Deuteronomy 31:8The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Goodnight from Guangzhou,

Love the Lamberts