Samantha and Piper - Here comes mom!

new blog for our family...

2011-02-02T10:01:00.000-05:00

Sam and Piper are doing awesome!!!
Almost home a year--
Come on over to our family blog:
www.mommymomentsandgodwinks.blogspot.com

Thanks for following!
Kelly

Home a week!

2010-03-22T23:21:00.001-04:00

Piper and mommy (in a wig I got in China)

Piper, Joey, and Brighton two photos

Piper blowing bubbles in her shades

samantha--taken by Joey

Joey painting Brighton's fingernails

Cassie finds a wooly bear

sweet Jonny

We are doing awesome!!

The girls are still doing super after a week home.

We got on US time quickly because of our travel home. We had been up for so long that we

we dead tired on Sunday evening on went to bed at the normal time.

Monday was still a bit blurry but by Tuesday--I was feeling human!

Both girls are still using the Internet for entertainment, Samantha (oldest) is watching her soap operas and listening to music. Piper plays games. We have shopped for various things together--food-shoes-toothpaste-wash cloths. Funny--you do without alot until you have a teen that is used to a daily regimen. Both girls always wash their face in the am and at night.

I have never used washcloths--so I needed to go get them when we returned.

We have been blessed with a ton of food and offers of clothing. My hubby did a great job of purging some things while I was gone. We have a small home for the amount of "stuff' we own. We have loads of stuff for the girls and they can feel as if they have the "right of refusal".

I even consigned a few items we were given in hopes of gaining a little cash to start paying on the adoption loan.

We are having a ball with cooking. Tried my hand at dumplings tonight. Piper dipped out the meat--Cassie and I rolled (after Samantha showed us a fancy folding technique)..then I fried them in oil. Samantha made a vegetable soup--cilantro,mushrooms.garlic, water, salt, bok choy. She loved it. (She also ate it all so we never got to try it hee hee)

Food has been a major bonding tool and dinner time is a riot with all of us trying new words.

8 around the dinner table is a hoot. I am just getting the hang of cooking for two more mouths.

Both girls can put away some food!

Tomorrow we have testing for the school placement. They will be tested in their Chinese literacy by the Chinese translator the school system employs. I wanted to ask for prayer for both of them. They are happy and fun loving girls but both are very scared of starting school.

I cannot blame them! Samantha will go to middle school and Piper will start in Elementary.

Piper will be at Bill's school since he teaches three days a week there and it is handicap accessible.

I promise to post some photos soon...

I will also try to think of some of the funny antics we have had here in the last 7 days.

I am just amazed at how well the girls are doing. God has fully prepared them for this transition. The best thing of all is that they have each other for support. I am so glad China said YES to two!!!

Much love--

Kelly-Samantha-and Piper

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

Home-- what a fiasco!!

2010-03-15T21:02:00.001-04:00

Well- We finally made it home.

Here's the events as they took place (minus the commentary)

Saturday am:

Woke at 5 am- breakfast at 6-- taxi at 7-- airport for flight at 8

Left Guangzhou for ShangHai at 9:30 and arrived on time around 11:30.

Had a 5 hour layover and took off for the USA- newark airport at 4:55 pm.

Flew for 14 hours to be told we were half hour away from Newark and we were re-routing to Cleveland.

(Very bad storms in the newark area and high winds)

Sat at a gate for an hour in cleve.--- took off again for newark
finally landed - one kid barfing- around 9 (total flight and landing and take off and landing time-- 17 hours.

When we arrived at the airport I already new my flight was cancelled out to baltimore.

Decided I might rent a car or stay at a hotel. Since Piper was airsick I was in no hurry to board a plane.

it was plain to see there was a huge amopunt of people stranded in the airport. There were no avilable hotel room...no available cars...even amtrak was closed due to power problems between Newark and Philly.

We had another couple with us and separated to find our way home. They were already booked on a 6 am flight.

Since I was last off the plane and then last to customs I was not told what was going on with luggage etc.

I found my things on the carousel and figured nothing was being done for anyone since it was a weather problem. (TRUE)

We spent several hours navigating customs and looking for any way out of the airport--- or to home.

We ended up resting on the floor until about 3:30am. I decided then to check the car rentals again.

This was only done through using the airtrain and pushing the luggage (with Piper riding on top) all over the airport property.

I did find a car available but they would not rent to me because I do not have a credit card. --only debit.

(dead end again) back to the terminal using the monorail.

Finally around 6 am I decided to try the amtrak. Found a train going to BWI station at 8:28.

booked via internet....took airtrain again to another point at the airport and began the wait.

At 8:15 the train was cancelled. (are you rolling your eyes yet?)

Of course the staff that manned the desk did not come in until 9 am. Luckily there was a staff person(heading so that said to use the same ticket and just get on the next train. We did that and boarded at 10:30 for arrival at the BWI amtrak station at 1:30pm

Arrived at statopn ontime and finally met up with my hubby and two kiddos (Cassie and Joey) Bill had preached and left church after the message to come get me!!

So --all total...travel was 41 hours from the first flight to my doorstep home.

Kelly Rumbaugh

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

www.adollarforhopeandjoy.blogspot.com

Don't forget to look in the dropshots.

2010-03-12T08:56:00.001-05:00

I am just reminding you guys that there are so many more photos and video on the dropshots site.

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

all new photos are under 2003.

my camera date won't set
much love--until Saturday am.

kelly XC and SQ

All the Loose ends are tied---We are coming home!!!

2010-03-12T08:47:00.001-05:00

Photos:

Angela and the goat

"welcome" spelled out in coffee beans at the breakfast buffet

Chicken feet at the store...just open and eat!

SiQi--Piper-- playing on the computer

a typical CHinese street. A little store set up under a temporary roof...

clothing hanging from the windows...small alleys for streets

I know i did not write last night except to send the post for the Peeples family.

They are coming back to the States so thank you for your prayers!

We are all ready to leave. The girls and i packed this am and got everything in the suitcases.

Amazing. I have to be careful how much luggage I have because we really only have two carriers and at any given point--I may need to help SiQi walk/ride an escalator. Thank goodness luggage dolly's are free in ShangHai. We will have to get our luggage and re-check at Continental. Our layover is 5 hours which seems so long...before a 14 hour flight...ugh. We do have friends---a ladybug family...that is also laid over with us even though they are flying American. We will hopefully get lunch with them and pass the time. (Jody Steen, her hubby, older daughter Kayla, and newly adopted daughter!)

So---I must get to bed. We are to be at breakfast at 6 and in the txi by 7.

Sadly...we have to part with angela in the am at the airport. It will be sooo hard for me.

She is truly like a sister to me. We laugh and have such a wonderful tijme together.

She is one of the most selfless people I have ever met and full of God's spirit.

Whenever i come i always have to say goodbye--not knowing whether there will be a next time.

(I know you all must be saying---those rumbaugh's nmust be done adopting N-O-W!)

Well...my answer is---only God knows..and we will be obedient if we are called.

Xiao Cheng already wants me to cme back for her friend Mao Xiao Zhan.

Who knows but God.

So-- this is it until I post from home.

We get into BWI at 10:30pm Saturday night. I will porbably post in the early morning hours since

jet lag will be rearing its ugly head.

Blessings to you all.

Praise God for His rich blessings on my life. Cannot wait to have all the blessings meet each other!!!

Kelly, XC, and SQ

The Peeples are coming home--to Denver

2010-03-12T04:25:00.001-05:00

YES!!! Some of you commented that the Peeples family is coming home.

This is true--they rec'd word last night from the CDC
They have paperwork in order and will fly to Denver. This is not their home as they are from Mississippi.

They are still in need of help. They were in guangzhou for twso extra weeks! The hotel bill is probably draining any extra money they have laying around. I have been contacted by a friend...who has a friend...In Denver who is willing to offer a room in their home and meals. Good is so good and I pray this works out!

So-- thank you for your prayers for the Peeples. They still are not in the air home and so...from experience with a sick child....
please pray they are allowed to boeard the plane and successfully get to Denver!!!

Much love,

kelly XC and SQ

Anpther post a little later before we go to bed.

PLEASE HELP THIS FAMILY.....

2010-03-11T07:28:00.001-05:00

This family needs our help. They have been detained involuntarily by the US CDC because their daughter has or had TB. Please read the message below Russell (the father) sent to me: Please pass this on to any groups you may be a part of if you are in the adoption community. If you are a church goer, please add them to your prayer list. Their names are Russell and Lisa Peeples and they have two daughters A.L. (the oldest aslo adopted frm China) and L.K .who is the sweetest little girl ever who is being adopted now.

THANK YOU!

Here is the link to donate:

http://joeyrumbaugh.chipin.com/the-peeples-family

(All money goes directly to thier paypal account via a "chip in")

If you wish to send them a check you can contact me personally at kelly.rumbaugh@gmail.com

Please show this family the heart of Jesus by giving what you can.

Hereis a short ditty about what the family has been going through.

We were given LK's info in August 2009. She was on the special needs list with a "stiff" right arm and possible brain atrophy. After reviewing her file and seeing some pictures, we fell in with her. We could see her using her arm and she didn't appear to have any type of brain problem. We sent her file to a doctor and she said that could be just delayed development or slow learning.

Several months after we got the ball rolling we were ready to get our plane tickets. The day we decided to call the travel agency, we were notified that she might have TB. She had been in the hospital with pneumonia. In January we had her flown to Guangzhou and the clinic decided she indeed had TB. After speaking with the MS Dept. of Health and the CDC, several other tests were requested. Everyone said it was a minor case and she was not contagious so we were given the OK to fly to China to adopt her.

After getting here, we learned another test was requested by the CDC. It came back as multi-drug resistant. With only two days before we were scheduled to come back home, they requested a CT scan and a lumbar puncture. Both results were normal. Not satisfied with this, they requested another sputum test, which was positive.

We have been on the phone for many hours speaking with the CDC and doctors trying to get travel approval. We have agreed to take her straight to the National Jewish Health Center in Denver, CO for treatment at supposedly the top TB hospital in the U.S. It has been an uphill battle trying to get approval and it has pushed our travel date back almost 2 weeks.

We finally got verbal approval this morning and are "supposed" to have written, official approval tomorrow morning. Then comes travel to Denver. In Denver, we need to get a hotel room near the hospital. Even though they offer discounts to NJH patients, it is still around $80 per night. In addition, we will have to pay for meals, transportation, laundry, etc. We have health insurance, but we have not met the deductible for this year. It is possible we might have to stay in Denver for over two weeks.

I have not been at work for over three weeks, and even though my job is safe because I filed for FMLA, I still do not get paid unless I work. The plan is to leave Lisa, L K, and AL in Denver with my mother helping out, while I return to work in Mississippi and travel to Denver on the weekends with my dad.
The chip-in code is below if you wish to add it to your facebook page or blog.

Thanks!!! Kelly

Tuesday and Weds in Guangzhou

2010-03-10T07:40:00.001-05:00

Well....still not much happening. The girls have taken over the computer with their QQ.

Angela has to go to the lounge because my computer is always plugged in!

They play games most of the time but then when their friends come home from school....they chat with them.

Finally skyped with the kids tonight. I am missing them and they are missing their momma.

Three more sleeps for them until I can hug and kiss them goodnight. Have you ever realized what a blessing it is to be able to do that? I have missed 15 nights of it so far....I am sorely lacking in the "huggged" department. Hopefully my mom is loving on them and collecting her hugs :)

Today we went to the consulate for Samantha's fingerprinting. A 40 minute taxi ride....20 minutes inside...40 minutes back.

Piper got car sick....everywhere...poor thing. Here favorite skirt with "yuck" all over it. We cleaned her off and the taxi and threw her into the tub. She loves her bath. At first she said she only bathed once a week in the winter. I can't get her Out of the tub...every day!!! She will give her brother, Joey, and sister, Brighton a run for "the longest bath!!

Tomorrow is the Oath at the consulate....they tell us how this is the last step and how much they know what a huge undertaking the adoption paperwork can be...say congratulations....make you swear you did not lie...and it over!!! It used to be that you could leave the very next day...now you have to wait to get the passport back with the VISA the next day. That will be Friday and by 9:30 pm your time Friday night...we will be jet setting to Shanghai....then on flight 0086 to Newark arriving at 6:30 pm Saturday night (your time) Then another plane hop on Continental from Newark to Baltimore arriving at 10:30pm Saturday. In all, 24 hours of travel. We will be wiped out but if anyone wants to come say HI---we would love it!

OK..so, no photos today but I promise for some tomorrow. Cameras are not allowed at the consulate but i am going to Shamian for some shopping in the am. Maybe I can catch some sights for you.

So--until tomorrow--

hugs and kisses to you---Praises to the Father!!

Kelly, XC, and SQ

www.dropshots.com

VIDEO OF PIANO--

2010-03-09T08:49:00.001-05:00

Sorry that is located under march 4th....

Kelly

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

not much happenin right now

2010-03-09T08:46:00.001-05:00

It has been very quiet.

Tb tests were read yesterday and they were fine!

Today we relaxed in the hotel----cold here and rainy.

Tomorrow more appointments begin

WEDS: consulate appoinment and Samantha's finger prints must be taken

THURS: we go to the consulate for the oath

FRI Angela will pick up the girl's passports with their visas!

SAT-- leave early for home.

I will leave you with one photo.

Remember the sock??? full of money???

Take alook at the photo....

I must say--these girls are priceless and worth a hundred fold themoney that was in that sock.

Praise God for His bountiful blessings-

kelly XC & SQ

PS- THERE IS A GREAT VIDEO OF XIAO CHENG PLAYING THE PIANO ON THE DROPSHOTS SITE!!!! LOOK UNDER 2003
--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

Guangzhou- March 7

2010-03-07T09:21:00.001-05:00

Today was a day of rest for us.

Unfortunately we got up a little after 9:30 and did not have time to get to church.

The taxi ride is about 20 minutes and we cannot walk there because SiQi would get way

too tired.

So we opted for some quiet time in the room. (Hard to do with two teens)

Anyway- we really stayed in all day. It was cold and rainy. Really a welcome change from hot and humid.

The humidity is so bad that we have had to iron dry some of our clothes. Jeans will not dry fully and really everything takes 3 days to dry--if it doesn't smell first of mildew. Angela took to ironing socks and underwear this morning to dry them! It was comical. The girls were cracking up.

This evening we went to happy hour and had a meat feast. Both girls love meat. They have had noodle bowls the last three nights so we went to the lounge tonight. They ate fish balls, sausages that were pretty spicey, and meat (undisclosed to me) on a stick.

Brighton loved them when we were here last summer!

So-- tomorrow we get TB tests read---they look fine to me. We may have to "drug" Xiao Cheng (Samantha) to get her to go inside again. J/K

Tomorrow for lunch we meet the executive director from Hong Kong of the "Christian Action" foundation that is involved with SiQi's orphanage. They are the ones responsible for educating the kids who otherwise would not go to public school. I also think they are the reason Piper finally resolved to be adopted. I know God orchestrated their presence at the SWI and that is why Piper is so well taken care of and loving.

So- until tomorrow leave you with two photos of Angela ironing the socks and underwear. I must say--- every time I spend time with Angela I laugh so much. She is such a fun, joyful person. I am blessed to call her my Christian sister. The girls lovingly refer to her as "jie jie" now---big sister. MMMMM--I love these girls!!

Blessings,

kelly

Below is a psalm that I read today-- Thank you Lord for all you have done for me. I am so undeserving and, yet, you have blessed me in abundance, I will forever sing your praises.

PSALM 150:

Praise the Lord

Praise God in His sanctuary

Praise Him in His mighty heavens

Praise Him for his acts of power

Praise Him for His surpassing greatness

Praise Hiim with the sounding of the trumpet

Praise him with the harp and lyre
Praise Him with tambourine and dancing

Praise Him with the strings and flute

Praise Him with the clash of cymbals

Praise Him with resounding cymbals

Let everything that has breath Prasie the Lord!

Praise the Lord!
--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

dropshots site

2010-03-07T02:30:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to tell you all to check the date "2003" for photos

My camera has decided not to let me set the date for my photos so it reverts back to

1/1/2003.

Thats where the wondeful birthday sng is from the girls to me!!!

HUGS!

Kelly

ps-- the "funny" for the day

we are having to iron some of the slothes we washed because the humidty

is so bad in the hotel room they will not dry. Angela has been busy ironing socks and underwear!!! ha ha ha ha

Kelly Rumbaugh

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

www.adollarforhopeandjoy.blogspot.com

photo update!

2010-03-06T09:04:00.001-05:00

I loaded 56 photos and videos on the drop shots site...

Here are a few:

waiting for luggage at the GZ airport

delicious mango!

the line at the medical exam..all US families bringing home children!

Samanth-Xiao Cheng--- having her ENT exam

Piper SiQi - eye exam

starbucks-Guangzhou

waterfall at the white swan hotel.

Xiao Cheng with her new doll. She is eating green tea ice cream.

Kelly Rumbaugh

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

www.adollarforhopeandjoy.blogspot.com

Back to Guangzhou and Medical Exam

2010-03-06T08:30:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was full of excitement and then the long flight to Guangzhou.

We were graciously injvited to cme to visit SiQi's orphanage and went around 8:30.

We had arned her with gifts for her 6 special friends and she went in with a smile ear-to-ear

and the bag of gifts.

We were warmly welcomed by the excutive director who thanked me for giving SiQi a home. It is wonderful to see the caring heart of her director and see the genuine love for SiQi in her eyes. She was dressed in a nbusniness suit but gently hugged SiQi and gave her a special framed gift her friends had made her We were shon around the entire SWI and every floor was explained to us.

SiQi was actually living in a family arrangment at the SWI. She was part of an apartment there which housed 6 children and had two "mamas". This was the setting for all the early photos I have of her. I did not get to see her mamas --they were in meeting because their children were at school.

School takes place at the SWI for many children. The children Piper was schooled with (her 6 friends) met every day in a classroom on the fifth floor. They were all mentally capable of learning but physically challenged in some way. They had two teachers ina room with new desks and a white board. They also had a separate area in the room with a table and an area to be more active.

Siqi went in this room as if she was a star!! there were hugs and waves from all the friends. The teachers rushed to her and gave her hugs. It was so special to see her have one last hurrah at the orphanage with her friends. She delivered gifts and helped them all get them out of the boxes. There was so much excitement!

Going ot the orphanage for her was a great experience. it helped her have a little closure as well as let everyone know she could stay in touch. I have now downloaded the Chinese version of instant messenger and they both already have screen names. They play the games- grow gardens like farmville on facebook...play other kids types of games...and most of all...both have already done the "QQ" with their friends and teachers! I know I am seriously gonna have to limit copmputer time for these two. They allowed Angela to squeeze in a late birthday cake for mama but went right back to QQ.

Most of you know my birthday was yesterday. It is true that my greatest gift is two new daughters. How cool to remember this birthday in CHina in later years. I had the priviledge of listening to my girls and Angela sing Happy birthday to me in English.

both girls knew it aLready.

So on to today! We had our medical appoinment today. This is routine as part of the application for a visa INTO the US.

We go there and they are checked--basic stuff like ENT/eye exam/weight and height. They are also checked by a doctor --especially if they have a written special need. The doctor thoroughly went over SiQi...asking her to rotate her wrists...raise her arms...looked at her feet etc...

THEN---

the shots!

OK-- I am seriously ready to put the "momma bear" face on and sit in front of whatever commitee to speak my mind about mandatory immunizations before being allowed a visa. My girls both were subjected to four shots and a TB test. This is absolutely ridiculous that they are mandatory. Whoever is in charge of the legislation to STOP this requirement...I want them to contact me.

I am just a mom....but...these kids were terrified...and cried. My grown up girl, Xiao Cheng hid her face while tears streamed down. She would not talk to any of us for over an hour. It hurt her and it hurt her feelings. I simply cannot express how upset I am over this. I knew it was new legisltaion that never affected me....but...I am now on a mission for the children and the parents.

I met a mom this morning at the medical exam whose 3 year old child needed 6 shots. She was torn...they would give them with a few days in between but then she would have to be here another week. I am not sure about others....but...I have never allowed my kids to have more than 2 or 3 shots at once. I always say I will bring them back. What about the child who then develops a fever? a sore arm? or leg? My girls are doing well. (ice cream and a new doll helped) but there were a lot of young children and babies.

ok-- enough, Please contact me via e-mail if you know of anyone who is ready to take a stand on this subject. (thanks)

After the medical we walked to the bank to exchange money (OH...another thing--the shots cost me about 160.00---insurance would have been 10.00!!) and take the girls to ice cream. We also passed and went in to a shop that had baby dolls...about 24 inches tall...I got each of the girls one. Very cute. Xiao cheng had proceeded to feed her baby ice cream and give her a bath with a wet one this evening.. She is also an expert doll hair stylist :)

We are now back in the room-- we got a great dinner of chiken wings, mangos, grape tomatos, and noodles. It cost me about 10.00 Unbelievable!! we hand picked our tomatoes and mangos at the market an dit cost me 13 yuan..$2.00!! At least somewhere in the world we can eat healthy and not go broke. We followed our dinner with cake! MMMMmmmmm.

Thats about it here... The girls are doing great together and have slipped into the sister role very easily! Xiao Cheng is the protector/helper and SiQi just wants to do and eat everything her big sister does! My heart is about to burst!

Family: I miss you so bad!!! It really stinks we have to separate our family in order to build our family. It is only for a short while and I know you are fine. I just wanna big snuggle with mykids and hubby. (Ya can't do that on skype)

Church: Praise God for the blessing you have bestowed upon our family. we are grateful beyond words. Thanks for taking care of my hubby and children while I am on this mission.

We will go to church again tomorrow...yippie!! Cannot wait to praise God with his body of believers here in China!

HUgs to all--- 6 more days

Kelly XC ans SQ

Kelly Rumbaugh

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

www.adollarforhopeandjoy.blogspot.com

Bravery and Barbies

2010-03-04T08:04:00.001-05:00

eleven years old....fourteen years old....

the decision of a lifetime. Yes..I will go.

These girls have left everything they know to have something

they have "heard of" and "been told about"

Can you imagine leaving everything you have known?

tastes, smells, familiar faces, language, their bed, their friends

everything....

I am so amazed at the bravery of these two girls I have the honor of calling "daughter". They are precious to me already and

I have only known them for a short while. Both girls are very independent and I know the Lord has equipped them for this.

I have to give God all glory for His provisions...Before time began He knew they were to be in our family. Thank you , Lord is not enough.

Piper is doing great...she is easy going and easy to please.

She was very scared yesterday but a little humor and we got through it

The ladies were very kind and reassured her she would be ok.

We came back to the hotel and relaxed a bit. Xiao cheng went straight for the TV and I broke out the UNO game.

Angela helped her play the first game and then she was ready. Beat me 2 out of 4 games! It was fun bonding with my girl.

She was so fun and got such joy out of giving me the "draw four" card!!

We had noodles in theroom and then came the computer!! This girl is a POKER player...she got on the "games" section of my computer and went to solitaire--then poker. She knew exactly what she was doing.

She had played every game when i said it was time for bed.

I was ready for the tears as the lights went down and she began to think....but all I heard was a yawn...then her sister snoring :)

She fell alseep and rested well until it was time to get up around 7.

We went back to the civil affairs office for the finaliztion of piper's adoption. It was quick

and painless....just had some questions to answer.

Every official always asks---why do you want to adopt this child?

As a parent I cannot fully answer that in one day!!!

I said loved the Chinese children and we thought she was perfect for our family. (and she is)

So-- it is now final--she is PIPER JOY RUMBAUGH. She says she does not care if we call her Piper...but for now it is SiQi.

i want to respect her culture while we are here. I told her we can call her that as long as she wishes.

She said--I don't care-doesn't matter to me.. My kinda girl-- Go With the F-L-O-W...

So we went to get gifts for her friends. We hot to the toy department and came back with Barbies galore!

The girls got some too and they have been doing hair and changing dresses since we returned! Piper has taken to calling Samantha Jie Jie (big sister in Chinese) already! I love it. They are so sweet together and I know the bond of this experience wil be huge. (um,....and they have to share a room ha ha) Samantha is already protective of Piper. She rolled her eyes today when someone was staring at Piper. (Her feet are clubbed and one of her knees does not bend much so she has a distinct walk.)

I asked her what was wrong....she told me...and i said-- I know. Piper is really oblivious to the stares...she is independent and focused on herself and what she is doing. I am very proud of her.

Well....I am going to go get some sleep.

Tomorrow we see the orphanage and then off to guangzhou!

Will "report in" again asap!!

Hugs to all and keep thjose copmments coming. I get them at my e-mail but i cannot "post" them from here.

I read every one and appreciate every one!!!

Thanks for the prayers---I am in heaven...(except I miss my family horribly)

Kelly, Xiao CHeng(Samantha) and SiQi (Piper)

Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

March 2 - good bye to friends

2010-03-02T06:50:00.001-05:00

Today was busy for us. We ate a late breakfast and talked on skype with daddy and grammy/pappy.

It is amazing we can click a button on the computer and see our family so far away in "real time".

The kids were asleep already so I missed them. --and I MISS them.....

We had to say goodbye to two families we have spent time with in the last week, today.

Jill and Jillian will be in Guangzhou until Friday as will the Burris family.

We met Jill and Jiliang at Starbucks for a coffee today and said good-bye to them as they left for their oath

at the US Consulate. (This is the last step of the adoption...woohooo)

It has been so fun to spend time with them in the last three days. Jiliang is a real charmer and JIll is as sweet as she can be.

We also said goodbye to the Burris family who adopted Yen this past week. She is also 13 but is very very tiny for her age.

The girls giggled and laughed tonight while we shopped and had dinner. We went to a grocery store that was small but had alot of packaged foods. Xiao Cheng ran up to me with the biggest smile on her face...she has a shrink wrapped chicken wing!! She asked for three of them anbd immediately chowed on the wing on the walk home. Bill and I were chatting this am about how she loves hot food. He said the first place she would go with daddy was out to get HOT SPICY WINGS!! She will be in heaven!

So, tomorrow is BIG DAY #2! We catch the taxi at 6 am and head to the airport. Our flight leaves at 8 and is about 4 hours long.

We should have just enough time to drop our bags at the hotel and then meet Piper - SiQi at 3!!! I am asuming that she will also want to be called by her Chinese name. it is pronounced Suh chi The suh is kinda in the back of your throat and is a sound similar to the UH sound...not exact though. I will try to tape it on the camera and say it for you all.--NO, actually I will make Angela say it...then it will be real CHinese :) hee hee

Once again, I will arm her with the camera for Gotcha video. I can only pray that God gives Piper a peace about this adoption.

I have heard from her SWI that she is very scared and does not want to be adopted. I know God ordained that Xiao Cheng would be with us...she will be pivitol in helping Piper-Siqi! Thank you Lord for this provision and your mighty hand in these two adoptions.

So-- I leave you tonight with a request to pray for dear sweet Piper. I can only imagine how terribly frightened she is.

These girls are so brave. I pray she allows me the chance to love on her and be there for her when she has any need!

there are lots of new photos and video on the dropshots site....go on over and see all the puppy videos :)

I may come home with a beagle in my suitcase!

Blessings to all of you. I will try to write tomorrow about the gotcha day!

Thanks for all your prayers as we embark on the next segment of this journey!

Kelly and Xiao Cheng

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

Birthday - fun times!

2010-03-01T09:44:00.001-05:00

So we woke to the day with us saying happy birthday to Xiao Cheng. She did not

seem excited at all. Nothing specialIi guess---the first thirteen years.

We began with a wonderful skype with dad this am. Bill had taken the time to write out happy birthday in Chinese for her...and even tried his hand at sayng it. She smiled big and he got to see how beauitful she is through the computer.

We had to go to the police station today to apply for her passport. The taxi ride there was almost more than my stomach could handle. I was carsick and could not shake it. We were only there for about 20 minutes than had to get back in a taxi to go back to the hotel! I told Angela i did not feel well. We walked a bit to catch the taxi and then drove all the way back with the windows down--wind blowing at my face! I survived but even Xiao Cheng said her tummy didn't feel so hot when we returned.

We rested a bit and then wnt over to the island to pick up my friend Jill and her daughter. There is a huge highway between us with a bridge across. The problem is getting a stroller up and down the stairs of the bridge We always go meet her and walk her home...at least up and over the bridge.

We had dinner together and we helped her make arrangements to go home a little early. She was staying a few extra days...and now has decided--thats not necessary. She is here alone and missing her hubby and son! By the way-- I am missing my hubbby and crew as well. Skype is wonderful but it also makes me want to reach through and grab hugs frm all of them. Joey unfailingly says...

Mooooommmmmm...... I love you. UGH...I miss them!

So--we finally got cake for XC at about 9 pm. it was just the three of us at that point but...more cake for us ha ha Angela help the camera....I sang...(sorry) and Xiao cheng blew out her candles. I am certain for the first time in her life. Bless her heart...it is only the beginning of what will the first birthday of many with a mom to hug her when she goes to sleep and a dad that tries to say happy birthday in Chinese.

How is it that we are so fortunate that we have a God that would provide us the luxury of raising another child of His? Some days I cannot fathom the goodness and love He reigns down in my life. It is utterly amazing that He loves us this much! Praise Him!

So--I leave you with photos on the dropshots site...um...and the video if you wanna listen to me sing!

Blessings to you from the very blessed momma of Xiao cheng Rumbaugh!

PS-- the first photo is of the Pizza hut delivery guy....bicycle and hot box on the back!

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

In Christ Alone----

2010-03-01T00:55:00.001-05:00

In Christ alone
I place my trust
And find my glory in the power of the cross
In every victory
Let it be said of me
My source of strength
My source of hope
Is Christ alone

I am listening to a christian station being streamed on the internet.

The first song I heard was this by Brian Littrell.

~~~ IN CHRIST ALONE ~~~

These words are so true. I give Jesus all glory for the place I find myself.

Blessed beyond words.....halfway across the world....with a new daughter.

Married to the man of my dreams---mother to many --- Thank you, Lord!

May you always give Him praise in the valley or on the mountaintop!

Amen,

Kelly

Guangzhou -Sunday 2/28

2010-02-28T07:22:00.001-05:00

Photos:

the first few are of Xiao Cheng anbd the puppies

Then there is one of some giant mushrooms drying in the sun at the spice market

There are some photos of church as well.

I love the one that says GIVE THANKS....

My heart was so full when I sang this song this morning. It was such a powerful song to me at this point in the trip.

I have a wonderful daughter that has a very special birthday tomorrow. Many children dread this birthday in China because it signals the end for them. God worked a miracle for Xiao Cheng...I cannot even fathom her being set out without care or shelter. I only pray that somehow our story reaches others and God begins to work on their hearts about adoption.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey everybody!

Another fantastic day here with my girl!~

We started out with church on the island. I have been many times but

I still get very choked up to see so many Chinese worshipping the Lord.

I am just blown away by the sermons and testimonies given to the church congregation.

Today was no different!
Later in the day we met up with friends Jill and Jiliang Koeppe...they are so much fun.

Jiliang is three and Xiao Cheng really does well with her. They have hit it off beautifully.

Jill came over to our hotel and was treated to a walk through the spice market and pet market.

We also watched some Chinese comedy on Tv and had a fantastic dinner.

I don't know if i have told you but Xiao Cheng loves SPICY food...not just hot but really spicy!!

We finally found a dish she said was hot enough for her. It was a simple noodle bowl that was made spicy and then she added

even more red pepper mix on top. We were all sweating by the time we were finished. YUMMY.

(That noodle bowl was for Amy Burch)

So..Xiao cheng is coming out of her shell little by little. She does know some English but she doesn't want to try to speak it.

I guess she will wait until she has to...Right now she does looks to Angela for everything to be translated. She is quite the little sprite...just flitting fromplace to place...racing to the elevator everywhere...she loves to investigate...sometimes i turn around and cannot find her...she is usually looking at something she has never seen before. This happens especially in the pet market. She loves the dogs but also has handled rabbits, mice,gunea pigs...she is gentle with them and very sweet.

I must say I am getting excited to meet Piper (SIQI)-- just two days away!~

Tomorrow is Xiao Chengs 14 th birthday....I have no idea what we will do but I want it to be very speciaL.

Hugs to all of you----I am ready to crash!

Have a wonderul SON day....Kelly and Xiao Cheng

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

Another day in Guangzhou--meeting Jill and JiLiang!

2010-02-27T09:04:00.000-05:00

Today was a day of rest for all of us.

We skyped early with family and headed to breakfast around 10.

We saw many families that arrived last night from the respective provinces.

Most had their medical appointments today. We just hung around the room.

The highlight of the day was meeting a cyber friend---Jill Koeppe and her new daughter JiLiang.

We had a great meal at the "American" restaurant Lucy's. Xiao Cheng managaed to find a noodle

dish to her liking as well as some onion rings I shared with her. She also had her first american candy bar tonight

which was a crispy crunch bar I brought from home. (She says she does not like sweet things...but she

does like chocolate!)

So-- I leave you with more photos and not much journaling for today.

Most are from the dinner and my flash does not want to work. The aerial shot is of the market we walk through to get

to Shamian Island. It is only about 4 blocks but we walk through a pet market and then the spice market! Very cool.

Angela promises the pets are for PETS... not food. Lots of fish, turtles, birds, kittens, and puppies. Xiao Cheng really loves the puppies.

Hugs to all---

Kelly and Xiao Cheng

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

Its final ~~~ she is a Rumbaugh!

2010-02-26T08:15:00.001-05:00

This morning at approximately 9 am Miss Xiao Cheng became Samantha Hope!

She was so shy at her interview but actually wrote her sentence allowing us to be her parents.

The questions were routine and then the interview was over....

We went to the White Swan later to take photos by the falls. We had fun.

She loved the fish but stayed clear of the edge of the water, I sensed a definite

fear there of the water.

The White swan is beautiful but I am really sold on the Holiday Inn ShiFu...

It is lovely. the staff is helpful and speaks English. the buffet is large and plentiful as well.

As we did last time.graded to the executive floor. This is actually saving us money since our

room did not include breakfast or internet. or a fee of 260 Yuan more we get 2 breakfasts and the

internet as well as use of the executive lounge. The lounge has cold drinks, fruit, and dessert available all day (free).

Also, there is happy hour and hot/cold appetizers from 4-7 (free). It is so worth the upgrade as we can easily eat dinner at happy hour and we slip in many times a day for a cold soda or water.

Xiao Cheng, as she wishes to be called, is still super shy and does not say anything unless we directly ask her.

We even met other families today with children but she really stayed to herself. I guess we will see what happens when Piper is with her! I pray she opens up. She has an adorable personality when we get to see it. She loves the silly

shows on tv and giggles alot. I have to tell you...I let out a huge burp today and she laughed so hard...I may have to let another one "slip" to see her laugh hard tomorrow..... ok..TMI??? You all that really know me...you know how much I love to joke and kids around :)

Tonight we had dinner with 6 other Lifeline Children's services families. (www.lifelineadoption.org) They were all great. Two special ones we met were "Ladybug" families.

They had used the service Angela and I provide and we finally got to meet them. It was awesome. God's hands in action..as we met the very people we serve for Him. Truly our service is a ministry...we love our families and try to serve them as if we are serving the Lord.

So-- thats about it for today. Loved spending some time with my newest girl! I have also skyped with my mom and the kids/hubby back home. What a blessing to see them and them to see me/Samantha!

Much love to you all-

Kelly and Samantha--Xiao Cheng!~

I got her!!!

2010-02-25T03:09:00.001-05:00

She is beautiful and very shy....very sweet!!

It is very hard with no communication but Angela is helping so much!

I will post more later but here are some photos---

I will post the gotcha video to

www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

video site to SEE video :)

2010-02-24T23:55:00.000-05:00

I have created a dropshots site to see more photo and video.

Go here

http://www.dropshots.com/samanthaandpiper#

HUGS!

Kelly

2 hours to samantha

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

photos in GuangZhou

2010-02-24T23:30:00.001-05:00

I have no idea how blogger will post these photos.

I have included photos of our room at the Holiday Inn Shifu. it is so nice!
I also inlcuded photos of the decor around the islnad and walg street near the hotel.

There are mandarin trees everywhere as decoration for Chinese new year and the lantern festival.

There is also a photo of a sock with money inside.

I could not find my money belt so my money was enclosed in one of

Cassie's socks and tucked neatly into my sports bra. TMI---sorry.

Just thought it was so funny.

The last photo I attached is of my "sister I never had"...dear sweet Angela!

Her hair is so long and she was putting curls in. BUT--she is frustrated because it is soooo humid here.

Temps in the low 80's today. SO much nicer than last June when it was over 100 degrees.

Next post--- Samanatha!!

HUGS to all.

PS- I had some quiet time this morning...most of you know i have a very hard time with this. I feel so drawn to God whii am here.

So I read a little of the Psalms...the ones that praise Him...then I went into Colossians:

and then the BIble "popped" open to my favortie Isaiah!

Isaiah 43:5-6

Do not be afraid for I am with you I will bring your children from the East

and gather you from the west. I will say to the North "Give them up!"

and to the South "Do not hold them back"

Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the Earth.

AMEN!! Today...my daughter from the South....in a week..my daughter from the North.

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

posting comments

2010-02-24T09:20:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am reading every comment you make.

I am not posting them to the pages though--since I do not have access from Here.

Please keep sending them :)

Also--everything seems to be in order now for Piper. There was a delay with her paperwork but Lifeline and my hubby spent a lot of time on the phone with the National Visa Center.

So-- we are on our way to BOTH girls. I would still love prayer for their hearts. I have not heard much about Samantha's feeling about being adopted but I have heard that Piper is very scared and not sure. Both girls must sign that they are willing to be adopted.

So --thats it for now...I will post as soon as possible when I get back from meeting Samantha!! I promise :)

Much love to all of you!

Praiss to our Lord--Kelly

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

Not until tomorrow

2010-02-24T08:23:00.001-05:00

Angela and I wasted away the day--- mostly I slept.

Laid down for a nap ar 2 and finally woke up at 9.

We get Samantha tomorrow around 3 pm.

Not much going on today-- headng down to the lounge to try to find some food :)

Much love to all and praise God for his goodness,

Kelly

--
Kelly Rumbaugh
Ladybugs N Love
www.ladybugsnlove.com
"connecting families an ocean apart"

We made it!

2010-02-23T09:07:00.001-05:00

Just a quick entry:

Angela and I are at the Holiday Inn ShiFu...we just checked in. It is 10:03 pm.

Travel was great. I really loved continental!

We are in a perfect room. Most fo you know that the CHinese either have a twin or a king to choode from. They only had two twns available so we took it thinking one of us can sleep on the floor. (Since Angela has korean heritage she is used to this) Anyway--we were so pleasantly surprised to find two "US doubles" in our room. Enough for four when we come back to GZ in a week.! God is GREAT!!!

Also- Angela mets me at the airport with the news that

WE GET SAMANTHA TOMORROW!!!!

The article 5 is finished and they CCAA will fax the TA!

Prasie God--I am gonna me a new mom tomorrow!!!

Hugs to BIll and the kids back home. I missed you before i left.

More in the am. I have not checked the g-mail account yet to see if we have a time yet for Samantha.

Bigs hugs and HIGH 5's all around!!

~~~ Kelly ~~~

Kelly Rumbaugh

www.adollarforhopeandjoy.blogspot.com

less than 24 hours~~~

2010-02-21T19:54:00.000-05:00

ok...so, I never packed when I said I was going to.
I am the ultimate procrastinator. UGH

The kids and I had a blast this afternoon with a ton of other adoptive familes from our area.
We celebrated Chinese New Year and had so much fun! Many of these families I see weekly at my play group. Some I see once a year. It was just so cool to see all these families who cherish their chance to parent these children. God sure has worked His hand in this area. I think there were at least 40 kids from China there! This is amazing when you think of our rual little county! I am blessed to have these families for insight and friendship. Thank you.

So-- I am checked in and I am ready---
Yes-- ready mentally--not physically.

I am being picked up by a friend (who I am gonna owe big time) at 4:00 am.
We'll make it a party by stopping at some gas station for some java...and my favorite--corn nuts.
Have you ever had them?? Tastes like popcorn but very crunchy! MMMmmmm.

So-- next time I post--I will be in New Jersey--laying over for my flight to Beijing. I have 5 hours to do..
something.
Keep those prayers coming for the paperwork. There must be some real miracles happening while I am sitting on a plane the next 24 hours....

Blessings to you all as you join me on the God-Adventure. I am thrilled to have you along.
I was reminded today that
God is with me all the time...so close he does not even need a seat on the plane!!
wow---

Oh! Church this morning was wonderful. We had a guest couple playing for us and they are really fantastic.
We sang "Mighty to Save"...It rings so true to me.
Some of the words include:
"Savior, He can move the mountains"
...and I fully intend on telling everyone HE DID IT....when I sign the papers for Samantha and Piper in the coming two weeks. Victory will be ours through HIM.

Amen~~~ Kelly

Do you wanna know when there is a new journal post?

2010-02-21T08:40:00.000-05:00

Blogger only has the capability of automatically sending 10 e-mails nortification of a new posting.
If you would like to be added to an e-mail list to be notified of a new journal post...please leave a comment below with your e-mail address.

I will then be able to send you an e-mail every time there is a new post to this blog!

I do not want anyone to miss what GOD is doing!!

HUGS ~~~ Kelly ~~~

"T" minus 2 days----

2010-02-20T20:12:00.000-05:00

Today was busy but also relaxing (had a wonderful snuggly nap with Brighton and Joey).
I finished what I started at the bank yesterday :) and also did some last minute shopping for the trip.

I have been all over the website for my flights. I have checked my seat locations and also gate locations.
All seems to be in order - a.k.a. little tvs on the back of each seat--- (wink wink)
Bright and early tomorrow morning I will be able to check in for my flights. I truly cannot believe
I am gonna be leaving for the girls in such a short while. Just 3 short months ago we began our journey!

Reality has set in that I am leaving behind my four small kids and hubby. I have given extra snuggles and hugs today as I feel like I am going to be gone "forever". I will be skyping with them and that will get me through. I guess it is so hard to think about 18 days---- sheesh.

So-- I must put on my "happy" face and stay courageous in this endeavor God has set before me.
(Don't get me wrong-- I am happy ---just sad to leave the family behind)

That being said-- God has laid this journey before me. He will be by my side every second. He will go before me and prepare these little ladies for the scariest time of their lives. I believe He will bring the paperwork to completion in time for Samantha to join our family. I believe He will convince Piper she should be adopted. I am so thankful my God is an "ACTION" God. He is busy "doing"!!

SO- tomorrow I will sing praises and worship my Father. I will tell everyone about the glory He has shown our family through our blessings of children. He is so amaziong and so worthy of our praise.
Thank you Lord for trusting Bill and I to be parents to YOUR children. Thank you for making the path clear financially for us to adopt again. We praise your name and lift you on high!

Amen~~
Kelly

"T" minus 3 days and counting

2010-02-19T19:35:00.000-05:00

Today, I received all my adoption paperwork from Lifeline Children's Services! I also received the remaining funds via a cashier's check from a wonderful entity that has helped us out tremendously.

I have to say that Lifeline is such a top-notch agency! Karla Thrasher is our representative and she is
so "together". I rec'd all the paperwork organized by child and by which appointment (province or consulate) She had a sticky on each cover with the few items I needed to add. Lord--thank you for sending me my paperwork angel! Most of you have never seen my dining room table-- but there are papers everywhere!! So glad she got me organized and it didn't hurt a bit :)

As for the cashier's check, I am such a procrastinator. I decided to be a day ahead of "the last minute" and go to the bank to send a wire and get the cash I need for China. Would you believe the bank would NOT give me access to the money from the CASHIER'S check for 24 hours!! I thought the cashier's check was as good as cash??? Now they place a hold on those too! So--back I go tomorrow for the wire and the money...at the last minute!

Tonight I will pack a bit. Actually, I do not like to pack too early because then I worry I have forgotten something. Maybe I will make a list and cross out what I have packed?? Yes! I think that is a great idea.

I will post more tomorrow on the last minute things I am trying to accomplish. Daily posting is what is called for at this late date in our adoption.

Keep up the power prayers for the paperwork to get done in time for Samantha! God was moving today as I dealt with the National Visa Center for a "peice of paper". After three calls, I had what I was after. Thank you Lord!

Through Christ alone~ Kelly a.k.a. momma bear (when things need to get done)

This is the e-mail test---

2010-02-19T19:06:00.001-05:00

This is a test to see if I can post via e-mail.

I will use this way to communicate my journaling to the blog while I am in China.

China blocks blogspot so it is the only way to send a post!

~~~ Kelly ~~~

new photos--

2010-01-18T08:08:00.003-05:00

Samantha HOPE

Piper JOY

God is moving mountains---

2010-01-18T07:56:00.002-05:00

I NEVER get tired of praising God for His evidence in my life.
he is always there but I love to show others the blessings He gives us--

If any of you are familiar with the USCIS (Immigration), you know that they
are never in a hurry to process paperwork. The first part of the process to adopt an orphan usually takes 60-90 days. This is called the I-800A. When you are approved you get a letter stating you are approved to adopt your child(ren).

I sent my paperwork to the USCIS on 12/30/09. I knew it went to a "clearing house: where they took out the check---then it was sent to the processing center. Once my check had cleared I knew it was in the right place and would be assigned an officer soon. I had my wonderful agency worker named Karla start calling every day--- A week passed and no one was assigned our case. Panic was setting in as I know every day is a precious 24 hours to get Samantha home.
Karla and I both knew there wasn't anything more she could do but make that call daily.

Finally, Tuesday, I got a call from her. She said she had spoken to an officer that was going to personally go "find my file" and start working on it!! Oh Praise Him--- someone who actually realizes it is a child's life we are fighting to save! Officer Harrison is so kind and she communicated with me via e-mail all week. On Thursday, she e-mailed me a copy of our fingerprinting notice...you HAVE to have this to go get fingerprinted. (This is a trip to Baltimore for us--about an hour) She said she has cleared the way for us to go on FRIDAY-- even though our appointment was not until 1/29! WOW!

So, Friday morning, Bill and I packed up Joey and Brighton and headed down to the Inner harbor for our fingerprinting-- We walked in and it took about 20 minutes to do. We headed back home so Bill could get in a half day at the church. I quickly e-mailed the Officer and told her we had been printed. In an hour and a half we had our approval e-mailed to us!!!

So-- God is moving and we are shouting His praises from the rooftops!

next up--we wait for China to issue their Letter to us seeking confirmation we still "want the girls" Hopefully that will come early this week if not today!

Thanks for your prayers--I pray you stop by again to see what God has done!
Kelly

Putting our life into HIGH gear!

2009-12-22T08:36:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone!
Merry Christmas and BIG blessings to all of you!
First- a huge thanks to all who have donated...by paypal chip-in or by mail!
We are so blessed by those of you who feel called to help the fatherless!

We are currently bustling around after having our son Joseph hospitalized for 15 days.
During that time, we also had Brighton in and out for her surgery for hydrocephalus.
What a fun night to have TWO in the hospital together- and mommy and daddy got to stay together too. Many thanks to big sister Karli for keeping the "fire burning" at home.

Joseph came home last Friday night and what a night it was. The children had missed each other so much. It just warmed my heart to see them play and interact. Joey is doing well, although, he is on a slew of meds right now for fluid retention and blood vessel dilation.
he is tolerating it well to say the least.

The adoption had almost come to a standstill while we were dealing with Joseph. We had our fire marshall visit and also gathered the last of the documents. Our home study visit has been postponed two times now because of Joey and weather - we got 20 inches of snow over the weekend. Our visit will be tomorrow morning, with hopes of the finished product being sent
to CIS on Tuesday! Our dossier will head to Annapolis for state certification and then D.C. for authentication. Lifeline should have it in their hands by 12/31!

We are asking for prayer warriors to come before the throne on our behalf. This process with CIS and the CCAA will be VERY expedited. I am not worried about CCAA but I am concerned about USCIS- There are many people who have given me advice and so I pray that with God we can get this done! Lifeline would like to see me travel BEFORE Chinese New Year on 2/14!
That means about 4-5 weeks to process!

We are currently still seeking funds from some granting organizations. I know God has a plan and I have seen him work so many times before in our adoptions! I cannot wait o see what is in store for us this time! Praising Him for His faithfulness always!!

Well- this has been your quick update on our family and the adoption of Samantha Hope and Piper Joy!
Most likely, I am going to start a journal where I can send automatic updates- I will post to my groups etc. when I manage to get this done.

In Him and through Him alone-

Kelly

Quick Update on the paperwork process....

2009-11-29T20:39:00.002-05:00

We are quickly gathering all documents for our home study agency, adoption agency, and dossier. We are hoping to be DTC by the end of the year so we can "press" China for our LOA.
We will be submitting our dossier to the CCAA without the I-800 approval...this will be sent as soon as we can get it. Our placing agency feels it is good to get the dossier over to China and reviewed while waiting for the approval.
We are still needing our fire marshall inspection as well as a few other "doable" items.
Please pray the fire marshall comes in a timely manner. I will be calling them, in the morning to check on the status of our application.
I will be making a trip to Harrisburg, Pa for Bill's birth cert authentication on Tuesday---
always a fun trip with my mom and kids...

Thanks for your prayers--keep 'em coming...we will NEED them for the next three months!!
Kelly

PA Squared!

2009-11-26T20:26:00.002-05:00

We have received our Pre-Approval

from China to adopt "our"

TWO beautfiul girls!!

Samantha Hope and Piper Joy

YOU HAVE A FAMILY!!!

We give God all glory and honor for this two-fold blessing!

Thanksful is such a small word compared to the BIG feeling of gratitude we have!

God Bless you all !

Kelly and Bill

aVERY PROUD mom and dad

GIVE THEM HOPE AND JOY!!!

2009-11-13T12:31:00.007-05:00

HOPE and JOY....what more could we want for our children?

H~O~P~E

Samantha HOPE is 13 yrs 8 months old.....

HER TIME IS SHORT

In less than four months she will be sentenced

to the life of a "cast-out" for the rest of her life....

J~O~Y

Piper JOY is 11 years old....she is UNABLE to fully use her hands

and her feet are severely clubbed.

YET-- she still has JOY---

These two precious girls wish for a family.

We want them to come home to our family!

A chance to have HOPE and JOY!

Please consider donating just ONE DOLLAR to our funsdraiser.

Their adoption will cost tens of thousands of dollars....

please ADD your dollar and

then post to ANY social sharing network you participate in!

Give Samantha and Piper a chance for a family

A CHANCE FOR HOPE---

A CHANCE FOR JOY----

ONE DOLLAR!!!

See the chip-in at right or snail mail a dollar to:

Hope and Joy Campaign

1516 Miller Rd

Westminster, MD 21158

JUST ONE DOLLAR!!!

DO IT!

We only have until 3/1/10!!

(Samantha must be adopted by this date)

Our family sent in a "letter of intent to adopt" for these two beauties last Thursday.

So-- I have been asked to share a little more about our family...

We have been blessed with 6 other children.

Our first blessings were Karli and Chelsea

who came to us in 1988 and 1991, respectively.

Karli is now married and living in Florida while she finishes her degree.

Chelsea is also in Florida attending the Great Commission Bible institute.

We are so proud of the way our girls have followed the Lord in their lives.

In 2004 we started thepaperwork process...which has now gone on for over 5 years (ha ha ha)

We adopted Cassie Rose-Ling from ShangRao, JiangXi at 2o months old in 2005

IN 2006, we adopted Jonathan Levi from KunMing Yunnan at 2.5 yrs old

In 2007, we adopted Joseph Robert from YiChang, HuBei at 26 months

in 2009, we adopted Brighton Faith from YanAn, ShAAnxi at 4.5 yrs old.

All of our kids have some type of special need and we feel God has called us to this.

We are blessed to be near excellent hospitals and doctors.

My husband is the Pastor of an independent Christian Church

and I am a stay at home mom.
We are the Rumbaugh family....