Friday, June 15, 2007

It's Official! Phoebe is our daughter!






We have so much to share with everyone, but I'm not sure how long the internet connection will last at the Hong Ngoc Hotel, so for now I want to post a few pictures.
Well, it finally happened as planned. On June 14, 2007, after a 24 hour flight that arrived at 11 pm the night before, we got into a van at 6 am and drove north to LangSon to meet our precious little Phoebe and to take her to the Ministry of Justice Department for the Giving and Receiving Ceremony. The top picture is of us signing the official G&R book, which means that the Vietnamese government considers us to be Phoebe's legal parents. The second shot is our first family picture, and we are honored to share that shot with Jenny J-H, a World Child representative from the US. It is Jenny and the other hardworking WC staff who make these amazing moments possible for families--thank you to all of you. The next shot is of Ken and his little girl- yes, she's already daddy's girl! The last two pictures are of Phoebe and her primary caregiver. When she brought Phoebe to us, it was clear how attentive and caring she was to our daughter over the past three months. Phoebe never cried or fussed the entire time that she was with her. The caretakers are truly gifted with babies. In the final shot, her caretaker is changing her into a special Giving and Receiving Ceremony outfit, which was from Phoebe's Aunt Darlene and Uncle Don. It fit perfectly!
More to share--let's hope the internet connection continues to work.
It is so great to be a MOM!!!!
Lots more to share

11 comments:

Jen said...

Donna-
WOW! CONGRATULATIONS. I am glad to be the first comment for you. We are still waiting for word to leave...hopefully we will still get to meet up with you at the Hong Ngoc. Phoebe is absolutely precious enjoy your special time together as a family. God Bless!
Jen

Mary said...

Congratulations! We've been waiting patiently for an update LOL! It is so nice to finally be reading the good news. Enjoy every minute of it. Keep us informed!

Mary
(Ernabel on Yahoo groups)

Anonymous said...

I am so happy for you. She is beautiful! Have fun.

Karey said...

Congratulations!!! Phoebe is absolutely beautiful. Enjoy your time in VN. Looking forward to reading more!
Karey

S. said...

Oh, I got misty reading that and seeing the pics of your new daughter. She is gorgeous! Looking forward to following your time in Vietnam!

Audrey said...

Congratulations Mom and Dad!
Phoebe is beautiful and I knew it was only a matter of time before she wrapped Ken around her little finger.

Kate & Howie said...

So happy for you and your family! Phoebe is a doll! Have a safe & wonderful time in Hanoi and keep us posted on your journey!
~Kate Lakritz (VNE group)

Two teachers said...

You have so many people following this trip!

You have helped us become such a community.

Best,
Ed, Peggy, Luc and Maisie

charisa said...

She is awesome, and so healthy. I am so happy for you both. Such a long road, but look at the sweetheart at the end. INCREDIBLE!
Prayers,
Charisa

Michelle said...

Hi Donna,
I've finally made it to my husband's office so I can say hi! I love the photos of Phoebe's room. It is so beautiful,peaceful and calm. She'll love it!! And I love the photo of our care package in Phoebe's suitcase. The family pictures at the G & R ceremony are amazing. It's so fantastic to see you all together, finally a family. Enjoy everything. Can't wait to see your next post!

Run Amok said...

We're all enjoying the pictures and details of your trip and are anxious to meet Phoebe once you're back, rested, and ready to receive the hordes of visitors that will be knocking at your door. Looks like your accustomed to the role of mom now! Phoebe is so cute.