Saturday, July 19, 2008

Welcome to Dawn's Baby Shower for Lucy Joy!



Welcome everyone to Dawn's Baby Shower for Lucy Joy! I have been seeing a lot of people come in from Dawn's blog, so I thought I'd better get a post up to welcome everyone!

Dawn is asking for Books and Bows. Lucy Joy is almost 4 years old and has a beautiful full head of hair and Dawn needs some nice things to put in it. Also, if you'd like to send one of your favorite books, that would be wonderful!

If you have a favorite book in mind to purchase and would like to e-mail the title to me, I'll track them so that we don't send any doubles. timnkim@gmail.com

There are shower prizes for each 5th RSVP that I receive from a shower guest, so please leave a comment to rsvp and I will get you listed for a prize and e-mail Dawn's address to you. Please leave your e-mail address in the comments.

Meanwhile, we will be having a live chat session for the shower, so feel free to jump in and talk with us in the comments too!

Please take note that Dawn has created a travel blog where you can follow their journey to Lucy in China 'We Love Lucy'.


First shower prize goes to Verna 'The Bigs & The Littles'
Second shower prize goes to Heather 'Our Little Ladybugs'

*The shower has ended, but if you would still like to rsvp to send a gift, please do so in the comments section and I will get Dawn's address out to you. Thank you everyone for a wonderful time!

249 comments:

1 – 200 of 249   Newer›   Newest»
April said...

Good Morning,
Where is everyone?
Congratulations Dawn! Lucy Joy looks like her name fits her so well.
Off to the Saturday morning chat to see if you ladies are there.

redmaryjanes said...

Hi there April! Welcome to the shower!

redmaryjanes said...

Joanne just left a comment on the Sat Chat, so she should be up here soon!

Desiree' said...

Congrats Dawn!! Can't wait to see Lucy Joy in your arms!! I have the perfect book in mind, my daughter loves it.
hopeyfopey@yahoo.com

redmaryjanes said...

Hey there Desiree!

How are you? I don't know if Dawn is on just yet, but she should be here any minute.

What are you guys up to this weekend?

Desiree' said...

Not much, just hoping the rain holds off a little here in "sunny" MI so the kids can enjoy a sub wide sprinkler party. How about you?

redmaryjanes said...

I'm in Michigan too, we are near GR. It's pretty overcast and they say we most likely will have rain.

April said...

I'm only here for a few minutes, but finally got my comment thing to work. I'm good Kimberley how are you?

Desiree' said...

We're near Detroit, has been nice and hot all week, now it looks like rain. No big deal, I am all for a day at the bookstore. The kids love it and I can buy Lucy Joy's gift. DH is going golfing anyway.

redmaryjanes said...

We are doing great. Tim is out on the little fishing boat with Eli this morning, those two are darling together and my other two boys are due here any minute from their mountain biking trip to North Carolina. I tell you, I wish I had the perks my kids do.

redmaryjanes said...

Oh yes, gold. My DH golfs on Thursdays. I wish I had the desire to learn, but I just don't.

April said...

I would love to be on that fishing boat. Sounds like so much fun. Kimberley can you send me Dawn's address?

redmaryjanes said...

Yes, absolutely. After the shower, I'm going to send a large e-mail and get her address out to everyone who rsvp's.

Sheri said...

Good morning everyone. I'm looking forward to my first cyber shower and figuring out how this works! :)

April said...

Ah good idea. Yea, I have an RSVP. I know I have only been on for a few minutes, but I must go. It is sunny here and looking to be in the 70's so that should be a nice thing. Have a wonderful day and congratulations to Dawn!

Dawn said...

Good Morning Everyone!!! I am here!! Kimberly, thank you so much for hosting this shower for Lucy and I!!

redmaryjanes said...

Good Morning Sheri!
Welcome to the shower.

Desiree' said...

This is my first too, but is so much fun.

redmaryjanes said...

Hi there Dawn!
I am thrilled to help welcome Lucy Joy. I am so happy for you guys!

Sheri said...

Looks like I need to leave my e-mail to get Dawn's address. It's 3boys1littlegirl@gmail.com.

April said...

Oh good morning Dawn. Your little Lucy Joy is just so cute. Do you have any specific books you are wanting for Lucy Joy?

Dawn said...

April,

Sorry I missed you...thanks for coming by and have a great day!

April said...

I'm still her for a minute Dawn...I saw you were here so I will stay for a few more. Told hubby I will be ready soon. :-)

redmaryjanes said...

Thanks Sheri,
I ran over to your blog and got it. I'm going to send out an e-mail to everyone after the shower with Dawn's address info.

Dawn said...

Oh April you are still here...this is all so new to me ... sorry. I just thought it would be fun to have other's favorite books. I really dont have any childrens adoption books...I do have Shoey and Dot, and Love you like crazy cakes, but that is it, but a favorite of yours would be special.

Sheri said...

Dawn,

I'm so excited for you and your family! I just can't wait to see Lucy in your arms.

redmaryjanes said...

So, Dawn,
You are leaving in just a couple of days right?
How exciting!
Where exactly in China is Lucy Joy?

Dawn said...

Hi Sheri

I truly cannot believe we leave in just a few days...and it really is my turn!! I cannot even imagine the feeling of seeing her for the first time!

~verna said...

Hey, I'm back!! The hubs has decided to come along to the zoo. So I'm waiting for him to get ready. Contratulations Dawn and Lucy!! Please sent the list of goodies and I'll pick something. Do you already have Choco???

April said...

Oh I just love those adoption books. I will figure out something wonderful.

Desiree, can I have an invite to you blog? baymoose@comcast.net

These showers are so much fun.

redmaryjanes said...

EVERYONE...
I JUST NOTED ON THE POST THAT DAWN HAS CREATED A TRAVEL BLOG FOR THEIR JOURNEY TO CHINA. THE LINK IS ON THE POST.

Dawn said...

Yes, we leave Wed afternoon!! Lucy is in Changde City, in the Hunan province...we will actually get her in the city of Changsha...about 2 hours away

April said...

Okay Verna...what is Choco?

k1 said...

Good Morning everyone. Sorry I missed the Chat. How is the shower going??

Dawn, Departure day is coming up so soon. How exciting! Thank you again for agreeing to pick up our bottles while in GZ.

Dawn said...

Hi Verna...thank you! No, I do not have the book Choco.

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

Are the 3 boys going with you?

redmaryjanes said...

Verna, you are my 5th person to join the shower. I am giving away PBS books, they are darling! I'll send you one as your prize!

I lost Joanne, she showed up at the Sat Chat looking for the shower and I pointed her here, I'm going to try to find her.

Dawn said...

Hi Karen...thanks for coming :) I cannot wait to see your bottles, and drop off a picture for bottle for myself...I have always heard about this art form...I cant wait

redmaryjanes said...

Good Morning Karen! How are you?

Desiree' said...

Sure I will add you to the list, anyone else too. I hate being private but... without an LOA yet I hate to make all my pics of Gracie public. Anyone else have an opinion on that? I so want to end the privacy thing and our agency doesn't really care, still I hesitate. I have gotten some weird anonymous comments but not many before.

~verna said...

Choco is a book with a bird trying to find a mommy. He finally settles in with a momma bear who has an alligator, pig and another animal that I can't remember. It teaches that moms don't look like you, necessarily. Their behavior is what makes them a mom. I think that actual title is a mom for choco. Gotta run. The zoo is calling ;)

Dawn said...

Sheri,

We are not taking the boys. The main reason is $$, but I am also looking forward to just my hubby and I bonding with Lucy before all the wonderful chaos that is our life with teenage boys starts when we get home...you know what I mean :)

redmaryjanes said...

Choco is darling! Verna, do you want me to put you down for Choco?

polkadot said...

I'm here, with congrats and awe for Dawn. What an exciting time. We've adopted toddlers, but four will be a fun/challenging age. I am so looking forward to following along.

Kim, please send the address and I would like to gift a book we have that our kids love called, "The Family Book" by Todd Parr. I recommend it for all families, esp. adoptive families. It's a picture book that talks about how families are made up of all kinds of combos (including adoption).

Anyway, congrats!

Dawn said...

Bye Verna...thanks for coming...have a great day at the zoo!! Oh I can't wait to go to the zoo again...the boys dont seem that interested anymore...so Lucy and I will have a blast!!

April said...

That book sounds very sweet. I am going to get it for Eliana.

Thanks Desiree. I have a private blog too with Eliana's pictures and have only invited close friends and family even though our agency doesn't think anyone other than our parents should be invited. I hate how secretive everything is now with adoption. What is your LID? Ours is 5/29.

Sheri said...

Kim ~

I already bought several bows for Dawn. I was in an adorable new kid's shop in Holland this week, and couldn't resist. Do you want to know colors of bows so there are no duplicates.

k1 said...

I'm doing well, thanks. Life has been busy since I got home. Can't believe it's been two weeks already.

I take it my sister must be at the lake since she isn't here.

redmaryjanes said...

Sheri,

You can send me a color list if you like.

timnkim@gmail.com

redmaryjanes said...

I'm guessing Kelly is at the lake because she wasn't on the chat.

redmaryjanes said...

Hi there Shelly!
I'll put you down for The Family Book.

Desiree' said...

Ours is 4/30/08, but we asked to be expedited because of the earthquake, the kids were living outside up until a few weeks ago. Anyway, we were turned down and now we wait...

Kim, Do I need to let you know what book I will be getting? If so, I am getting Mandy and Pandy, it's by a local MI guy. The books are wonderful, they have a cd with english and Chinese. My daughter loves them and sings along!! (she's 3)

April said...

Kimberley, will you put me down for Motherbridge of Love. Thanks. I am still trying to figure out something else.

Dawn said...

Oh Desiree...you must just be beside yourself...wanting to get there so bad, and China making you wait. Have you heard how long it could possibly take??

k1 said...

If I can find another copy of "Never Tease A Weasle" by Jean Soule, I will send that. It's been out of print since 1964, so I don't know what luck I'll have, and it'll most likely be used if I do find it. Or is that too tacky? It was Kelly and my (and K4's) Favorite book when we were young girls.

Sheri said...

This shower is giving me some great book titles for my own little princess.

redmaryjanes said...

ok, April, I have you down.
I'm sorry I was away for minute. My two oldest boys are home.

Dawn said...

Does anyone know if at the consulate appointment...is it fine to wear red, white, and blue?? I wanted to bring a small flag too, but thought I would save that for private pictures in our hotel room.

April said...

Desiree that is horrible. Well, I have heard from two people that from LID in April they have gotten their LOA's in 70 days ... so lets hope it is very very soon. To think of you baby living outside is just unthinkable. I am so glad that they are moved back inside. I hope you get to travel very soon.

Can you send me your email?

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

Can you share with everyone a little bit about your boys. If they are anything like my boys, I'm sure they are soooo excited about their new sister. Will they be staying in your home with a grandparent or friend while you are in China?

Dawn said...

Oh Karen...I love used books!! I just love the thought that it was a favorite of yours growing up...that is what I was hoping for!!

I would love if anyone sending a book would write something on the inside cover...at least a name...so we will always know who gave the book to us...if you dont mind.

redmaryjanes said...

I think a book shower is such a great idea. I ordered bows though, from Keisha. She is sending them directly to you Dawn.

k1 said...

Dawn, wearing Red, White, & Blue at the consulate appt is perfectly fine. Katie did. Other parents have and their children wore shirts or dresses with flags on them. It is a VERY informal affair.

Dawn said...

Our boys are 15, 13, and 11. All my oldest wants is to DRIVE. They all love sports...just finishing up basketball. My youngest, Bennett, gave up his bedroom and moved in with our middle son, Blake, so Lucy could have her own bedroom. I feel like he has made the biggest sacrifice by giving up his room and his place in the family as baby. He actually is the one who suggested the name Lucy...and I loved it the moment he said it...so he is quite proud!!

They are all acutally very excited...they are staying home with their Grandfather...nothing but fun and eating out!!

Reality for them really hit when we put the car seat in the car the other day!

April said...

Oh you know what would be a perfect outfit is Robin @ Red Thread Stitches's Heart of two Countries outfit.
http://bp0.blogger.com/_L_YSGG29_Zg/SGLrbTqjmvI/AAAAAAAACsU/dmxe320cr5A/s1600-h/Stitches+865.jpg

Desiree' said...

A couple people I know that asked for expedite took over 100 days for LOA. We are on day 80, not that i'm counting. LOL. I am hoping and praying it comes soon, her poor little face and arms were covered in festering mosquito bites.

Dawn,
What size do you think Lucy Joy will be wearing?

April
I will send you my email.

Dawn said...

I am not going over the top with the r,w&b, but just wanted to make sure it wasn't offensive in anyway.

Kimberley...I need bows so bad...so I am anxious to get them!! Thank you.

redmaryjanes said...

Desiree,

I will pray for you my friend. I can't imagine how hard it is for you to wait.

Paula said...

Hi everybody,
Happy shower day, Dawn!

redmaryjanes said...

Hello there Paula,

How are you? We're going to be having a shower for you next!

k1 said...

I just discovered that NTAW has been reprinted as a Golden Book. So, I can get a brand new book or find a very good condition used. It's a great little story!!

Dawn said...

Oh Desiree...that just breaks my heart...praying your LOA comes very soon...so you can hold that sweetie and never let her go!!

I think Lucy is going to be very tiny...I am bringing 2T and 3T...I think 3T's might be a little big, but that's ok! I have tried to get updated measurements, but no luck...which they might not be accurate anyway...her paperwork from Aug last year said she weighed 19 lbs...so I am guessing maybe a few lbs more than that!

Paula said...

Thanks, Kimberly. I have EVERYTHING I could possibly need, since Hannah and Bella are only a year apart, but that is so sweet of you to offer.
I'm going to send you an email right now of a few book titles.

k1 said...

And April, since I missed your shower while I was in China, I will get you something for Eliana too.

Sheri said...

Dawn~

Wow, that's tiny!! Sarah was 19 pounds when she was one.

Dawn said...

Hi Paula...thanks for coming by...yeah...your next for a shower...this is so much fun!!

redmaryjanes said...

She is a little one Dawn. I will be so glad to see some photos of her when she is home.

Desiree' said...

Our boys stayed with their Grandpa while we were in China for Hope. They LOVED it. In fact they didn't want him to leave. This time Grandpa is traveling with Baba adn I am staying home:(

I have red dress with blue for Grace's consulate appt. I thin kHope wore her pj's because we caught the red eye to LA that same day. Left from the consulate to the airport. I do not recommend that to anyone!!

Mav said...

:) good morning all

k1 said...

Mav is in the background here. He doesn't think he should announce himself because this is a "womans'" event, not the Chat.

Anyone want to correct him??? I say he's welcome.... after all, he did assist indelivering the ladybug to Dawn's door.

Dawn said...

Sheri...see, so I think she is very small. I just followed a friend to pick up her daughter from Lucy's SWI...and in the pictures Dong Bin always looked so chubby :), and her mom said she was shocked at how tiny she is. Oh my goodness...2T are probably going to be HUGE on her...who knows!

Dawn said...

Anyone who helps deliver LadyBugs is welcome!!! I just love it, and it is in Lucy's room on her nighttable!!!

April said...

Karen haven't you done enough? You are so sweet, but really you don't have to do anything more.

Hey Paula. Still working on getting that box to you.

Lucy sounds really tiny. I am so excited to see your gotcha day. Were did that link go for your travel blog?

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

If the clothes you bring don't fit Lucy, there are plenty of places to buy cute clothes in Guangzhou. I had along a lot of dresses for Sarah, and dresses can be either too big or too small and still look just fine.

redmaryjanes said...

Any friend of Karen's is always welcome here.
Besides, Mav and I are friends now.

Paula said...

April,
don't worry about the box, I want you to save every penny to bring Eliana home!

Dawn said...

Sheri,

That is exactly what I was thinking...dresses look cute either way...and I mostly am bringing dresses!! Afterall she does have 27! (granted some I bought big to save for next year)

April said...

Hello Mav, I am happy to finally meet you. I have been wondering who this Mav is. Guys are always welcome...Patrick my hubby is close by telling me things to say. So you are not the only guy. :-)

Mav said...

Just call be the LBD

k1 said...

Kimberley, yes, sadly, Mav is a much more regular attendee of the Chat than I am.... Hey, I finally get the chance to sleep in on Sat's, so I take it!

Desiree' said...

Better run the kids are ready to go to their party and DH is finished cutting the grass.

Dawn, have a safe and wonderful trip to Lucy Joy. My prayers are with you all.

Thanks for hosting this, it was fun!! I'll be sure to join in the next one.

Dawn said...

Hi Mav...I love it...the LBD!!

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

You sound like me -- I've gone a bit crazy with girl's clothes! :) After 3 boys, it is so fun to dress a little girl!! You are going to love it. Also, all the pink toys and dolls -- too fun. Little Miss Sarah is running around in her pink princess dress AGAIN today. I love it!

April said...

Oh Paula...it is coming. I was trying to do something special with Bella's name on it, but it isn't working. I will get if off after the dress is done. I have not decided on a price yet, but what size do you want 2T or 3T?

Dawn said...

Bye Desiree...thanks for coming by...have a great weekend...and thank you for the prayers!!

redmaryjanes said...

I'm so glad that you were here today Desiree, have a wonderful weekend!

April said...

By Desiree...check your email. :-) Have a great day.

redmaryjanes said...

Where in China is Lucy Joy? Did I miss that part?

Dawn said...

I never spent lots of time looking at girl's clothes until Lucy...and I just can't help myself. I have bought mostly dresses because, well, I just love them, but also since I really dont know her size...so fall clothes will be fun since she'll be here to try them on!! And...the shoes...I think that is going to be my weakness...

April said...

Okay ladies...it has been fun. Can't wait to see Lucy Joy in your arms forever Dawn.

Dawn said...

Lucy is in the Hunan province in Changde City...we fly to Changsha about 2 hours from there to get her...and then will make the drive back to visit the SWI...hopefully

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

I have actually bought the cutest shoes for Sarah at Target! How would have thought?

k1 said...

Kimberley, could I ask you to 'host' a shower in the near future for Ruth at Abigails-Journey? They get their referral in the next batch. LID 01-27-06.

They have three sons too. It seems to be a common theme among adoptive families!

I don't know if she has stopped by here ever, but she is a dear friend of mine and comments on my blog all the time.

redmaryjanes said...

Thank you for coming April. Have a wonderful weekend!

redmaryjanes said...

Karen,

I would be happy to host a shower for your friend. Just get us in touch with each other.

Paula said...

Hi April,
3T is best.

Dawn said...

Bye April...thank you for coming!

Sheri~ the sandals I am bringing to China I bought at target...I always find great shoes there...and the price is great...especially since I really dont know what the right size is...I am just guessing!

I might have to splurge on a pair of Lelly Kelly's (Melanie...Leslie's sister shared those on her blog one day) they are just darling!

k1 said...

Bye April!

Dawn said...

Karen... I have been following Ruth's journey...she lives in our area right?? Yeah...she is next!

Sheri said...

Dawn ~

You'll be able to get sqeaky shoes for a few dollars a pair in GZ. Obviously you'll want to take the sqeakers out! There are some cute styles. I only bought the size Sarah was in at the time, but wish I'd bought bigger sizes, too.

redmaryjanes said...

I have heard that the deals on children's clothing are unbelievable in China!

k1 said...

Dawn, yes, she lives in Duvall. I've visited with her a couple of times. She is a sweet lady. Her boys are a hoot! They like my handcuffs, Good thing I always have a key with me!

Dawn said...

I was thinking of that too Sheri...I have heard how cute they are too!

We get to GZ on the 24th, and leave there the morning of the 26 to fly to Lucy's province...so I will have a little time to scope things out, before we come back to GZ for the last part of our trip.

Sheri said...

Anyone have some great shopping ideas/thoughts to share with Dawn for when she's in China? I wish I'd gone with a better plan, because now there are things I've seen or heard about that I wish I'd gotten when I was there.

redmaryjanes said...

Now Dawn,

I want you to know that 11 ladies rsvp'd who couldn't be here today, so you have a lot of wonderful things coming your way.

I will get you a complete list of everyone after the shower.

Dawn said...

Karen...I bet they like your handcuffs!! My boys would too!

I have heard the same thing about clothing too, Kimberly. Is it similar to what we have here?? I know I will buy Chinese dresses.

Jewels of My Heart said...

Good Morning everyone..... Congratulations Dawn. YOur daughter is just breathtaking! I am so happy for you and for her.... Will be praying for you to have a safe and wonderful trip in China and for your little Lucy Joy to have an easy transition.
I can't stay, I am so sorry. But wanted to pop in and say I am so happy for you!
Kimberley please send me her address. I will be making something to go in her beautiful hair and on her sweet head. lol
Love you and thank you as always for being the hostess with the mostest!
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmWaaaaaaaaaa!
Love,
Daleea
jewelsofmyheart@yahoo.com

redmaryjanes said...

Welcome Daleea~
Thank you so much for all of the beautiful shower graphics. The header is gorgeous!

I will get her address to you!

Dawn said...

Oh Daleea...thank you so much...and thank you for the darling invitation...Have a wonderful weekend!!

Wow 11...I am humbled by the friends I have made blogging. I never knew this "world" existed until we started this journey...and now I can't imagine not being a part of it.

redmaryjanes said...

Dawn,

I have never been to China. I am still waiting for my first child from there.
So, I will be learning from you : )

redmaryjanes said...

Yes, I have been getting all sorts of comments and e-mails since the shower was announced and neat because I have been able to meet some new ladies.

k1 said...

I suppose it is time for me to get going too. Dawn, I am so excited for you.

A hint... when you get to the Pearl market in GZ, be adventerous and wander back into the 'bowels' of the building where the wholesalers are. You can get some FANTASTIC deals back there on pearls, jade, and other stones/gems. Much less mark up than in the stores out in the retail section.

It's a little disconcerting wandering around back there at first, because it is like a rabbit warren, but it has been safe everytime I've been there (4 times in two trips) and the halls eventually lead back out to the retail section.

Jewels of My Heart said...

Hey Dawn, just also wanted to let you know that Nicholas was 4 and a half when he came home... it is so much fun. Please know I am here if you need any ideas in case of behavioral issues.
Ok, I am off.... have a wonderful time... so sorry I can't stay.

redmaryjanes said...

Have a great day Karen...you too Mav!

Dawn said...

Kimberly

I truly don't think I would be as "prepared" for what to expect without others blogs.

I have a friend who has done this 3x...the last just being in Nov with an 11 year old boy...and she keeps saying...you are so much more prepared than I ever was because so many people are willing to share their experiences with others..it is so wonderful.

Jewels of My Heart said...

ps. so glad you like your invitations and banner..... Your beautiful Lucy Joy was very inspirational!
You are most welcome Kimberley... thank you for thinking of me...
ok, I really am gone this time. lol

k1 said...

Thanks. Is Mav still here? We are going to go shopping later. He has wedding gifts to look for for his daughter.

Joanne said...

Oh, I think I was on the wrong post...sorry, but HELLO!!!

redmaryjanes said...

Joanne!
Hello, I have been looking for you. Welcome to the shower.

Dawn said...

Bye Karen, Bye Mav...thanks for the Pearl info...good to know :) my husband thanks you too! LOL

Thank you Daleea...that is great to know, I can ask ?? of you!

Dawn said...

Hi Joanne!!! I am sooo glad you came by!!

Mav said...

aahhhh yes, after thoughts. C U later 2 RMJ. I must get moving also as its a bit'o a drive to Redmond.

Dawn said...

Joanne...How is that little mermaid Mia?? I just LOVE those pics of her floating on her back...pure joy!!

Joanne said...

Oh Dawn, I know I've said it before but I'M THRILLED BEYOND BELIEF FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!! I already have your address from the gorgeous apron you sent Mia - so expect some nice "stuff" for your little girl!
What did I miss?!!!

redmaryjanes said...

Have a great day Mav.

redmaryjanes said...

We've just been chatting about what to expect in China and baby books and bows.

redmaryjanes said...

Dawn,

Do you have someone who is going to be watching your mailbox while you are away?

Dawn said...

Joanne,

This is so much fun...I have never done the Chat before...since I am on the west coast, but it is great.

So many ladies have mentioned books they would love to send to Lucy...and they are some I have never heard of, but yet are their favorites...I am so excited to read them to her.

I know you share in our excitement...thank you!

Dawn said...

Ooh what do you mean...mailbox?? That might be something I haven't thought of??

redmaryjanes said...

Well,
I know that you will be getting some shower packages.

Dawn said...

Ohh THAT mailbox...sorry. Yes, my father-in-law is staying at my house with the boys...so they will be here!

Mav said...

Later all and remember RMWDT

redmaryjanes said...

That sounds good Dawn.
We are trying to figure out what to do with our boys, we can't afford to take them either.

Sheri said...

I've got to run and feed the kiddos lunch.

Dawn - make sure you go to Jordan's shop in GZ -- it's right down a sidestreet near Lucy's restaurant. Very nice man.

Also, get some dirt from Lucy's province or from by the orphanage. It's just a little piece of where she's from. Also, get the Chinese newspaper on her Gotcha Day. Try to get anything as keepsake from her province.

I'll be praying for you and can't wait to see Miss Lucy on Gotcha Day!

Joanne said...

When my neighbors and friends threw "us" a baby shower (it was 8 days before we left!) they all gave book in lue of cards - Mia has so many special books and in each one is a special note for her!
One of my favorites is "The 3 names of Me" about a girl who was most likely given a name by her birthmother, then her nannies and then her parents; hence the 3 names! I haven't read it to her, she's too little to understand, but it is so sweet!
Anyhow, just put on Mia's bathing suit - she's out swimming with her brothers and dad (Dawn, it's SO much fun putting on bikini's - on her not me!!)

Sheri said...

Kim~

Thanks so much for hosting this shower for Dawn -- it's been so much fun!

Dawn said...

That is hard isn't it??? I am very lucky to have my FIL who is retired be so willing.

Heather said...

Hi - I didn't miss it did I???

redmaryjanes said...

I love the baby showers, I meet so many new people and I think it's important to welcome the new babies.

Dawn said...

Sheri,

Thank you for coming...and all the great advice!!! Have a great day!!

redmaryjanes said...

Hi there Heather, how are you doing?

Heather said...

Dawn -- Congratulations!!!!!! Just cannot wait - I may become a stalker just to see all those precious first moments

Dawn said...

Hi Heather...we're still here...glad you could come!!

Joanne said...

I know I"m a little behind with commenting...but, we are so glad we had the boys stay home with my parents while in China. We were able to bond and give all of our attention to Mia those first few days. I think it would have been SO hard to have the boys with us - time change, culture change, etc.

I thought the best store to buy clothes in Guangzhou was right next to the White Swan - forget the name, but we bought Mia silks in every size, which comes in handy for CNY and other occassions - they are cheap and you can never have enough - get a bunch!!

Heather said...

Happy I made it in time to actually join in:))

redmaryjanes said...

I am definitely going to be a stalker on the travel blog.
I learn a lot from seeing the journeys and Lucy will be the first 4 year old who I have seen come home.

Heather said...

Didn't that store have a woman's name? It is the first place Hannah said Baba to Rob and he and Jim had this complete breakdown (in public no less) and the store owner, was all choked up too, once she saw their reactions

Dawn said...

Stalk all you want...I have definitely done my share!!!

Joanne...even though my boys are older...they would still want to be entertained and eat ALL the time :) I think it will be nice to have a pretty low key time just the 3 of us, because when we get home it is always loud and busy at our house!!

Chinese dresses in every size is at the top of my list!!

Heather said...

The journeys are so powerful, even after your sweetie has come home, then you really know the drill, so it makes your heart swell to even more gigantic proportions - OH I LOVEthis song

redmaryjanes said...

Keep pouring out the info ladies! I'm taking it all in!

redmaryjanes said...

I have heard a lot of women say to get Chinese dresses in many sizes. Also, a sweet 16 gift from China and a wedding gift.

Joanne said...

It could have had a woman's name - it wasn't Jordans, which was also a nice store. I just thought this store had a ton of stuff! We bought gifts for Mia for each anniversary of 'gotcha' day and we found many nice items here - just don't buy their suitcases!!! (We bought one for on the way home and I think a piece fell off every 15 minutes during our travel home!! It was hysterical (to me, not my husband!!)

Heather said...

This cyber shower thing is fun - I am such a dinosaur!

Dawn said...

Ok store with ladies name, next to White Swan...noted :)

I am going to have to go back and reread all the comments so I can write down all the China info I received today!

Heather said...

Hannah's orphanage gave us a pendant for her wedding day - I took those pictures out of the piles we posted because Rob was so moved by that gesture

Joanne said...

Yes, we bought Mia pearls - necklace, braclet and earrings for her wedding day. I also bought pearl braclets for each of her aunts at home (they are the stretchy kind and cheap!!), but pretty :)

The store "A Gift From China" in Guangzhou is very special all the proceeds go to charity and most or all of it is handmade - they even have a website (doesn't everyone now!)

Dawn said...

So what type of gifts for every Gotcha Day?? Just little things. What about pearls?? Did you ladies buy necklaces, bracelets, earrings...all 3?

redmaryjanes said...

I have held showers for women in the past whose families have done nothing to welcome their new children. So, I think they are a blessing. It's a great way too to keep everyone focused on something wonderful and positive that is happening.

Heather said...

Ooh Dawn - also Chinese attire for the family - I know the boys may reject it, but it is great for family portraits and for Chinese New Year - Emily with her mounds of red hair looooooves her Chinese dresses and I know the peanuts (even the boys) like wearing theirs too

Dawn said...

Heather...how special to get the necklace from her orphanage. What a treasure.

I do love the pearls for her wedding day!!

redmaryjanes said...

OOh, wedding day pearls is a great idea!

Heather said...

For Hannah, we have chinese drums, ivory, jade, books, lanterns, etc. - one regret we have is not purchasing more pearls - keep that in your head, if you love it, get it -- had I been there, we probably would have needed extra luggage, but Rob is more, hmmm, practical

Dawn said...

I love this shower idea...and your right...every child needs to be welcomed into their family.

Heather...I do want to get my boys chinese outfits (at least shirts), and I know once they meet Lucy...they will do anything for her :)

Joanne said...

Some of the gifts we got Mia are: a jewerly box, a fan w/stand, a small umm, what do you call it...it's like a room divider; but it's wooden and small to put on her dresser..., in Sept, her first year anniversary we got an adorable outfit and matching pocketbook (from A Gift From China) the fabric has little China girls on it - how did I know then that she'd be a pocketbook girl!!!
We also got her a statue of a Chinese girl who they said was a Guangxi Girl - her province! Just small stuff we thought she would like to have from her birth country...

Dawn said...

I understand Heather :) At least most of this stuff is quite small.

Did anyone have a bottle painted with a portrait??

redmaryjanes said...

Joanne,
Those sound wonderful.

Dawn said...

Oooh great ideas you guys!! I want to write all this down...I can get overwhelmed sometimes with not knowing just what to get...so this will keep me on track!

Dawn said...

Kimberly...you better just start your notebook now with all these ideas flowing!!

Have you all seen the pics of Mia on Joanne's blog where she ALWAYS has her handbag...she is a girl after my own heart!!

redmaryjanes said...

I have 2 handbags for Sophia already. I'm hoping she is a girly girl since I already have 3 boys.

Joanne said...

No, but while in Beijing, before going to the Great Wall we stopped to have lunch and I believe it is the Friendship Store attached to it. We bought a few treasures there too, one of which is a small glass circular painted peony and we had them write Mia's Chinese name in there - amazing how they do that! Oh, we also got her a small cloisonne (sp?) vase and braclet while there. Can you tell I love to shop!!!?

k1 said...

ok, so i came back to see what was going on.... the store next to the WS is "House of Love" or "Love's House" or something like that. Jordan's is also a good place to go, especially for shoes and strollers. There is a shop down next to where Beatrice's used to be (on the street where the medical exams are held) that has some really neat Western style clothes and lots of hair bows/clips. There is a shop two or three doors to the right of the 7-11 that had good prices on their Chinese dresses. There was another shop down along the park that had a good selection of Province Dolls.... dolls dressed in native style of each Chinese province. I can't remember the name!! It's down by the new Shirley's store and by "A Gift From China".

Dawn said...

Oh you do?? I think those of us with all boys just crave a girly girl!! My boys keep teasing me and saying "Mom, what if Lucy doen't like pink and dresses???" We laugh and say her first English sentence is going to be..."I dont like pink!"

Oh, I'll love her anyway :)

redmaryjanes said...

Heather,

Are you still there? You are number 10, so you win a prize!

Heather said...

Oh Dawn, evenif she doesn't like pink, there is always chocolate polka dots!! She has got to love them!!

Dawn said...

WOW Karen...Thank you!!

Here's a question...we are going to buy a stroller in China instead of bringing one with us. Should I buy that the fist day we are in GZ before we fly to Lucy's province?? I dont know if I would be able to find one as easily in Changsha??

Joanne said...

I also have 2 brothers and I did go through a tomboy stage - but I am so girly now and have been for a while:) I love that Mia can "hang" with the boys and roll around with them, but she is a girl (can a be a tough girl, but she's a girl!!!)

Thanx for the name of the store by the WS - I may have to google it :)

Heather said...

WOOOOHOOO - the only thing I am missing right now is a medium size piece of shower cake complete with buttercream icing!! Now, Kimberley, you produce that and I crown you blogging QUEEN!

Dawn said...

Oh Heather...you're right...who doesn't love chocoalte polka dots??

Dawn said...

Ditto that Heather!!

Heather said...

Ok, you are the queen anyway:)

Stroller - isn't WalMart close to the WS? That could be an option right - oh wait you will need it before then, won't you?

redmaryjanes said...

Well, if I could find a way to send out some fab shower cake, I would.

But how about a really cute PBS book for your girls?

k1 said...

Dawn... Unless you are getting an advise from BTDT parents from Changsa that say differently, I would say YES!, buy the stroller in GZ. Kelly and Eric waited until we got to GZ to buy Ella's because she didn't like the quality of the ones she saw in Nanchang. You will find it so handy.

Joanne said...

Stroller: we bought our strollers when we arrived in Nanning, Guangxi province the day before getting Mia. Our guide took us to the local Walmart and we paid $30, which wasn't the cheapest stroller - but we still have it today:)
Oh Dawn, just talking about our time in China...my husband and I and our travel group all say it was one of the BEST times in our lives. It is such a beautiful country, very different...but it was such a special time. I often go back on my blog to read about our days there - wishing you have the same special memories like we have...ahhh, what a wonderful time!

redmaryjanes said...

Karen,

That is very cool info. I'll be hitting you and your sister up for help before we go.

Dawn said...

I too, want her to hold her own with the boys.

My boys, and all the neighborhood boys are so much older...so I have been doing lots of reminding of manners, bodily function noises :), and just things that wont be very pretty coming out of a little girls mouth :)

k1 said...

The Carrefour store (similar to a Wal-Mart) is about a 20-30 min walk from the WS. You can buy a stroller there too.

Carla said...

Good morning, uh afternoon. Congratulations, Dawn!
Lucy is precious. I thought so the moment I saw her picture!!

Carla

redmaryjanes said...

Welcome to the shower Carla, how you doing?

Dawn said...

Karen...I just assumed it would be much easier in GZ..so that is what I will do!

Joanne...I just love hearing it was the time of your life. That is so much what I expect it to be...one of our most precious memories. I have tried so hard not to wish all this waiting away so I didn't miss any of the blessings along the way...and I dont want to wish our time in China away to get back home, because it is such a special place to Lucy.

Dawn said...

Hi Carla...thank you for stopping by, and for the sweet compliments on Lucy...I think she's pretty cute too :)

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