Date:
Friday December 23, 2005

Comments

Well, Linda and Bruce, how do I even begin? We are so very happy for you both and your families. Our prayer for you is that each step along the way God tenderly holds you, comforts you, and gives you peace. We will be following your journey with excitement and joy! Hopefully by this time next year Sianna will be pulling the ornaments off your tree! With Love, Susan, Dave, John D. and Elizabeth!


Date:
Friday December 23, 2005

Comments

We wanted to say hello and congratulate you on your decision to adopt. We too are adopting and our paperwork went to China on 12/16/05. This will be our first child as well. As I read your Road Less Traveled section it fit us pretty much to a T, except for we also experienced a few losses along the emotional path to a biological child. We too feel as if we were chosen, while reading your story it could have been us. We also used Joe and Jenn to do our daughter's site "journey to ladybug". You mention TN in your site and we are in TN. We used Holt International for our agency. Seeing your site filled my heart with joy for Sienna as she is so loved and the site you have created is a testament to it. We will keep in touch. Emily and Mel in Tn DTC 12/16/05 for our little ladybug


Date:
Saturday December 24, 2005

Comments

Linda and Bruce and Baby Sianna, I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am that you'll soon be together and can start your journey as a family. You are going to be the most wonderful parents with such compassion, unconditional love and nurturing ways. Tristan is also very excited to have a long distance friend just as his mommy has had since Linda and I have become friends... I just hope that they will be blessed with the same deep connections Linda and I have.. Every day I wish I was closer to all of you, especially now that you're preparing for your baby Sianna to come home. You're all in my thoughts as you take each step toward your beautiful and very lucky daughter, Sianna... With Lots of Love Kim P.S. From one dyslexic to another... Can't you get spell check here!!! ; )


Date:
Monday December 26, 2005

Comments

December 27th Hi Sianna I just spent the nicest evening with your mom and dad. We all are so excited about you and talked alot about you while they were here. It was wonderful seeing the excitement in their eyes. You can be sure that you are wanted and loved...not everyone can be so lucky. To be chosen is one of the most wonderful blessings. Next Christmas we will celebrate your homecoming and are looking forward to that with great anticipation. You will be the star attraction and everyone's favorite gift. We love you already little one. Love, Beth


Date:
Monday January 02, 2006

Comments

You have a beautiful web site.....we leave next week and our website is in development..... Rob and Tanya Holcomb


Date:
Tuesday January 03, 2006

Comments

Dear Sianna, We are so very excited to have another little one in the family and await your arrival with the utmost excitement. There are 3 little boys here waiting to play and share fun times with you. You are a very lucky lady and have such wonderful parents and grand parents. As cousins we just love spending time with your family and know that you will be one very special little girl. Looking forward to meeting you and we love you already. See you soon, The Hagan's Robin, Susan, Taylor , Ryan and Jake


Date:
Tuesday January 24, 2006

Comments

Dear Sianna It's Aunt Debbie. I was cleaning today. I just got back from taking your cousin Elizabeth to gymnastics, she loves it. It may be something that you will want to try in the future. Your cousin Charles is taking a nap, therefore the cleaning. In my draw I came across a pair of leather booties that your Unlce Will and I bought for you. I want you to know that you are in our prayers. I pray for you every night for your safe journey in to our family. I hope that you can feel all the love that is coming to you and that it comforts and warms you in the quiet times. Much love I can not wait to meet you. Aunt Debbie


Date:
Saturday January 28, 2006

Comments

Hi, I just stumbled across your site for your darling, Sianna. I am an adoptive Mom of little Sarah Jinai from China. We "gotcha-ed" her on 10/31/05 and she is now 15 months old. I just wanted to let you know that my prayers are with you during this long wait. I'm so excited for you. It's amazing how the love of a little girl from all the way across the world changes your life. May your family be blessed so richly by this love. God bless, Robin Archer troyandrobin@peoplepc.com


Date:
Sunday February 12, 2006

Comments

Best wishes to you as you pursue this journey of adopting your Suanna. I undestand the journey feels very long at times, and no you can not control the beaurocracy of red tape. You will have her, hold her and love her soon, although for all waiting arms I am not quite sure it ever feels soon enough BUT I do know from what I have read of tohers journeys, it has been well worth every step of the way Elia's Grammy to be. http://www.journeyoffaith.zoomshare.com


Date:
Monday February 13, 2006

Comments

Sianna~ It is so wonderful to know that, in a short time, your Mommy & Daddy will be given the greatest gift that God can give. You see Sianna, no matter what God has planned for us, he will always see us through. You are a very blessed little angel! I cannot wait to meet you! Alyce


Date:
Saturday February 25, 2006

Comments

2/25/06 As I sit in our office with the application ready to be mailed today, I encountered your beautiful website. It brought tears to my eyes. We too suffer from infertility, however, through the miracles of invitro and god's grace we have a 7 year old daughter, Natalie, who was born on Christmas Eve. We had resolved to only one child, but as you had mentioned, we kept getting "signs" that we should turn to China to adopt a baby..now, we are "leaping into faith" that the 3 of us can become 4...I am nervous, happy, curious, sad...the whole range of emotions...but I am inspired by others on the same journey...it confirms what my heart is telling me...that we have a daughter who needs us as much as we need her..Kelli/Georgia


Date:
Wednesday March 29, 2006

Comments

Hi,I am Brenda from FL. My cousin just returned home with their precious daughter. Their website is Journy to Hannah. Today I started reading your story and was deeply blessed with your Road less Traveled. Pam has 23yr.old twin boys with Downs Syndrome that were born when she was just 20. I related her to so much of your story. Things just never have been easy for her yet she does not complain and continues through life's journey with compassion. Hannah has already brought much happiness to this family in the few short weeks we have known her. I know Sianna will richly bless your lives and she will find love and commitment in her forever family.


Date:
Tuesday April 18, 2006

Comments

I stumbled upon your website today and I have read all there is to read. My husband and I are also adopting and are close to finishing the paperchase for our little Abrielle (Abby). I hope you don't mind my peek into your life, but I have truly loved it. We are both emotionally charged and geared for our daughters! We think a lot alike. I look forward to reading more, and celebrating with you when you bring your beautiful daughter home. I will pray for your wait, as I wait as well. God has already blessed you so much, and will continue to do so. Thanks for letting me share! Congratulations!----Tony and Rett, Indiana


Date:
Wednesday May 10, 2006

Comments

Hello! I recently added a website here (Journey to Lily Mei-Mei) and have really enjoyed reading through yours. I feel your pain on the current referral wait times, but truly feel that our daughters will be given to us at the perfect time. I know that when our precious daughters are placed in our arms we will forget all about the wait! (well, maybe not forget all of it, but it won't matter!) Blessings to you and your family. I look forward to following your journey! Rachel


Date:
Sunday June 11, 2006

Comments

Good Morning Williams Family I check your site often and, of course, enjoy updates as often as we get them. I feel so excited for you as each day brings you closer to Sianna. It's like I can see her. I know she "knows" you already and is waiting to "hold you". Being the parent of a little girl is so special and will change your life forever. I can't wait to travel this journey with you...what a trip! Hoping all is well and letting you know that you and Bruce and your new little angel are in our prayers constantly. Love you all...Beth


Date:
Thursday June 15, 2006

Comments

I stumbled onto your site and love it. ?Congrats on being DTC and joining the wait. We got home with our daughter in November and she is the joy of our lives. We are currently paperchasing for #2. I noticed you are in TN..we are in Hendersonville. If you live near Nashville there is a great Waiting Families group. You can email me at lala28@comcast.net if you want. I know when I was waiting the first time looking at websites was such a blessing (it showed me it really does happen) and so you are welcome to take a look at ours. Go to babyjellybeans.com and search by annslee then the password is NaNa. I wish you joy in the journey and many blessings on your new daughter. Laura (Mama to Annslee JiaNa from Hubei)


Date:
Saturday July 29, 2006

Comments

Linda and Bruce, Alyce shared your website with me and I'm so excited for the both of you. My husband Eddie & I just adopted our daughter Alex through foster care. It's an amazing feeling to hold your daughter in your arms and know that she is yours forever no matter what. I have pictures of her on myspace.com. My email is tenesseetarheel@hotmail.com If you need clothes for next spring & summer, let me know! They love me at gymboree. :) Much love. Kim Lowe


Date:
Friday August 04, 2006

Comments

Hello from an adoptive parent in Minneapolis, Minnesota - I was so moved by your words to your daughter that I felt a pull to write. I know what it's like in this wait - and I know how notes and letters of encouragement each and every day can lift a heavy, weary soul. People always told me that "it will all be worth it in the end", and that "you will forget the wait when you have her in your arms." Well, they were right on one count - It was worth it. I wish I could tell you that the rememberance of the pain of the wait was completely gone, but I can't completely. It was horrible for me - but the pain, itself, has (obviously) left. I just wish I would have believed the people - but knew that I couldn't in the spot I was! We received our referral on March 16, 2005 and traveled in May. Our adoption day was May 16 - the day of your DTC! I want to tell you that the minute, the very second she was placed in my arms - I knew what the waiting was for. I just *knew* it. I knew God had sent me through this process because otherwise SHE would not be in my arms. It was perfect timing - his perfect timing. And I had to like it - I loved it - because there she was. The minute we saw her picture, it was like we recognized her. I said, "Of course it was you. It was you all along!" I don't know if I'm making any sense - but - I just had to share with you. You have moved me so much with your sentiment - that I will follow your journey with you. I just know when you hold your Sianna in your arms - you will know exactly how I felt..."Ah, yes, this is why we waited...." I know that might not make it any easier at this moment - but - just wanted to offer my experience from the "other side." It saddens me that the waits have slowed down so much, and I pray for you and all the other waiting families and babies that you are reunited sooner - whatever is in God's perfect timing. Please know I'm sincere in my words... I hope it was okay to receive a letter from a complete stranger!!! Sincerely, Karla Castens www.castens.blogspot.com kjcastens@msn.com


Date:
Thursday August 31, 2006

Comments

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Date:
Monday October 16, 2006

Comments


Date:
Wednesday October 25, 2006

Comments

Your story touched my heart. We, too, are adopting from China. Your Sianna is lucky to be coming to a home so filled with love and sensitivity. God Bless! Marilyn


Date:
Friday October 27, 2006

Comments

What a lovely site you have and what beautiful, sweet, loving words from your family to your daughter! There is no doubt she will be surrounded by love and care all her life. I discovered your link on the RQ site. We are LID 1/10/06 for our Lily Kate. Feel free to stop by sometime at www.lilykateonline.com. All the best and may this wait speed up :) Susan


Date:
Saturday October 28, 2006

Comments

Best wishes to you and your family. You're getting closer every single day. Jacque (aka.jfkof3) LID-08-08-05 referral-09-25-06 (waiting for our TA)


Date:
Tuesday October 31, 2006

Comments

Hi! I saw on RQ that today you had a trick or treater in a UT football uniform and figured you had to be from TN. So, I thought I'd say Hello from Knoxville! Where are you guys? What a beutiful website!! Steve and I are LID 12/29/05 and this will be our first child. Nice to 'meet' you! Julie and Steve Piller gracejulie@yahoo.com


Date:
Monday November 06, 2006

Comments

I saw your post on RQ and peeked at your site. You are going to be the greatest parents based on the kindness and thoughtfulness that goes into everything you write! Great site! I hope your journey goes quickly. Annie DD Catherine dtc 8/06 for Cat's sis


Date:
Tuesday November 07, 2006

Comments

Hi, My name is Heidi Smith. We are also adopting from China. LID 11/09/05 I just wanted to say that your letters to Sienna are so heartwarming. I feel that is you could see the letters I have for Rory in the notebook in her nursery are almost Identical. I pray that this journey speeds up. We all need our sweet babies home. We are also adopting from Haiti. Lilly just sort of happened. She is living proof that God does things for a reason in his own time. We had thought we would be in China in May or June. We weren't and that is when I found Lilly. It has been a rollercoaster since. My blog is www.gettingourgirls.blogspot.com. if you want to see who we are. I cannot wait to see a picture of Sienna in your arms. Congratulations Heidi


Date:
Thursday November 09, 2006

Comments

Hi There, I read your last entry on RQ, and I wanted you to know that I really feel for you. Our LID is 4/5/06. I think I have been able to cope because I am so busy with my two sons. I can only imagine how your heart must ache for a child to love. Yet, I really feel like things will still be okay. Our agency has not indicated that things will be worse and still believes that the CCAA is working hard to match as many babies as possible. There is no reason to think that things have to remain the same. Maybe they will make more babies paper ready for IA next year. This could happen. So, I think there is still so much hope for all of us. The past doesn't necessarily predict the future when variables are so uncertain. Hang in there. Everything will work out for us, and we'll have our baby girls soon. I still believe China has healthy baby girls that are meant for us. It sounds like you will be a fabulous mother! Yours Truly, Elisabeth Lehman


Date:
Sunday December 03, 2006

Comments

Hi Linda, I just wanted to email you, but I don't know how to PM you from RQ. At anyrate, I just wanted to wish you good luck with your new job. I think you start this week, unless of course you hold out for the "better" one. BTW, I love your new attitude, I have kind of gone there too. I do hope however, that we will get our referrals more like early spring 2008 maybe winter 2008. I think if the CCAA continues to match the same number of babies then this should happen (I hope). I won't complain as long as we are home before the Olympics. Congrats on quiting smoking - I'm so proud of you - stay strong and keep up the good work. Shoot me an email sometime when you have a moment, I wanted to chat about something that shouldn't have "just anyone's eyes" looking at it. keelyheinzen@yahoo.com Good luck this week. I'll be thinking of you. Ziggy


Date:
Tuesday December 12, 2006

Comments

Hello, I saw your post on the RQ website and thought I'd stop by and say "hi". We're both May 06 LID's (we're 05/24/06). The wait seems to get longer and longer, doesn't it? It's nice to meet you. Michaela, Orlando, FL http://waiting4ourdaughter.blog.spot.com


Date:
Thursday December 14, 2006

Comments

Hi Linda - what a wonderful website for your daughter. I am also LID 06.06.06 (but from Australia) - I found your site through RQ June 06 forum. Hang in there - my prayers for all of us is that the time will pass quickly. Lisa (Kenya) www.overtherainbowtochina.blogspot.com


Date:
Friday December 15, 2006

Comments

Thank you with all my heart for the kind and loving words you wrote on our website! You have a big heart... Sianna will be very blessed! The wait is so difficult. May you have joy and hope while you perservere! I think your family is lovely, and will soon be even more beautiful! Chin up--- it won't be long! Erin & Libby Mei


Date:
Tuesday December 19, 2006

Comments

Wow. I have really enjoyed reading your site, and your "feelings" on infertility. I have so often felt the same way! We are paperchasing now for our baby girl and I am so ready for the day that I see her sweet face. I normally do not leave messages on blogs, but your touched me and I thought you should know! God bless you and your family always!


Date:
Tuesday December 19, 2006

Comments

Woops, I guess I should have signed it! It's 0358 and I am working til 0700, hope it's not that obvious! Penny, SC www.sharpsladybug.blogspot.com


Date:
Tuesday December 19, 2006

Comments

Woops, I guess I should have signed it! It's 0358 and I am working til 0700, hope it's not that obvious! Penny, SC www.sharpsladybug.blogspot.com


Date:
Monday January 01, 2007

Comments

Good Luck with your adoption! Leda Perry www.chinatocalifornia.blogspot.com


Date:
Wednesday July 25, 2007

Comments

Hi there! I was thrilled to see that your site was "unlocked" recently. I used to read all about you and your family before it was off limits. I know you guys must be getting close to a referral -hang in there. It will be the most amazing experience ever! Laurie Matthew (www.journeytome.com; Cole Thomas)


Date:
Saturday July 28, 2007

Comments

Linda, I'm on vacation in SC but am checking RQ every day and was thrilled to see June '06 out of review. Needless to say I thought of you all immediately! You are getting closer!!!!!!! Kathy Musick


Date:
Thursday August 09, 2007

Comments

Your blog is so inspiring. I hope you have Sianna home and in your loving arms. If that journey is not completed yet, I pray God gives you the patience and the strength until she does. Thank you for sharing. I plan on reading The Giving Tree. God bless you.


Date:
Sunday September 02, 2007

Comments

Thanks for your comment on Rumour Queen September 2. It sums up my feelings exactly as a mother-in-waiting.


Date:
Sunday September 23, 2007

Comments

Hi, Let me introduce myself. I'm Freddie Remza, the author of a book that was recently published called "The Journey to Mei." It's a story told from a ten year old child's perspective as her family goes through the process to adopt a baby from China. This book is written for children ages 8 thru 12 and is meant to be another resource parents could use as their adopted daughter matures. It is also a book the child's siblings, cousins, neighbors, and friends can read not only to understand the adoption process, but to foster an appreciation for the Chinese culture and its traditions. You can check out my book on my website http://outskirtspress.com/thejourneytomei "The Journey to Mei" is available in both paperback and hardcopy on Amazon.com. Part of my research for this story took me to China for a month. I found this country to be especially intriguing and the people very friendly. It's my hope to spread what I learned and experienced on to others with hopes all of America's Chinese daughters are raised with the pride of knowing who they are. Hope all is well with your family and my congratulations! I am sure all the frustrations of waiting all will fade once you hold your new baby! Sincerely, Freddie Remza Author of "The Journey to Mei" Realistic Fiction for Children Ages 8-12 Click here: Outskirts Press Book Publishing Presents The Journey to Mei


Date:
Wednesday October 17, 2007

Comments

Hi Linda, I found your website (it's very beautiful, by the way) when I clicked on the hyperlink provided in one of your recent responses to a "Rumor Queen" post regarding interim/concurrent adoptions. My husband and I are LID 2/10/07 for our second Chinese daughter and can hardly bear the thought of the projected wait. Unfortunately, at this point, our agency will allow us to pursue another adoption, BUT at the risk of losing our China referral. They feel obligated to report an interim adoption to the CCAA and believe that it is the CCAA's position that such adoptions are prohibited. We are nonetheless still looking...hoping that an "official" opinion from the CCAA will become more apparent in the near future! I took great interest in the recent post from RQ, as well as your response....not only because you chose to proceed with a second adoption, but that you're doing it in Taiwan....a country of great interest to me! I haven't been able to find much on the Internet about Taiwan adoptions. Do you mind sharing some info with me? What agency are you using? Do they have a website? How long is the projected wait? Are infants available? What about cost and procedure? I would love to "chat" with you to find out more. We are praying that God will show us, clearly, the path we should take. Right now, I tremble at the thought of potentially losing our China referral. When we made the decision to adopt our first child from China, we already had it in our minds that we'd go back for a sister. Any info you're willing to provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time! Heather Bergmann hsbergmann@msn.com


Date:
Sunday November 04, 2007

Comments

Linda, I love your blog! I can't wait to watch your journey to Jay and Sianna, as I follow along on my own China/Taiwan journey. Your RQ friend, fellow June'er, and fellow Taiwan PAP...3xw ;)


Date:
Friday November 09, 2007

Comments

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) I love big birds! Susan.


Date:
Saturday November 10, 2007

Comments

such good news to hear im sure they will be treasured by such wonderful parents love marilyn


Date:
Saturday November 10, 2007

Comments

Hello there. I came across your site and love it. I am LID in June 06 so I feel your pain. I would also love to hear more details on your son's adoption. My email is mkeller199@yahoo.com. Thanks and best of luck on your journey.


Date:
Saturday November 10, 2007

Comments

Linda, Jay is so gorgeous - handsome! - and sweet looking and just perfect! I am so happy for you! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kathy


Date:
Saturday November 10, 2007

Comments

I didn't know you were adopting from Taiwan too?!?! CONGRATS on your little JAY!!!! What a beautiful baby you have. Brittany Robinson


Date:
Saturday November 10, 2007

Comments

It must be official as Jennifer and Joe have now moved you into the "Waiting to Travel" category!!!!! Yes!!!!! Can't WAIT to follow along!! Susan, Dave, JD, and E'beth


Date:
Monday November 12, 2007

Comments

Thanks for sharing this very exciting and memorable moment.....WOW!!!!! Can't wait to see that cute smile and hold him in person...the long wait is just about over! He has a huge place in my heart already.....Love him, and you all...Grandma XXOO


Date:
Monday November 12, 2007

Comments

The pics of Jay are PRECIOUS!!!!! I read thru some stuff and just wanted to cry tears of joy for you guys! How beautiful this whole thing is for you two! It makes me want to do this to get a little girl! We'll talk about that soon! I know you're filled with heavy anticipation --- when do you get to go pick up the little cherubs??? -Jenna


Date:
Monday November 12, 2007

Comments

Sunday, November 11, 2007 Linda and Bruce, I can't tell you how excited I was to receive your email. My heart is racing a mile a minute. I could not be happier for the two of you. When God closes a door He opens a window. What a blessing to open the window and see these two most adorable children, Jay and Sianna smiling back at you! There is no doubt that they will be given all the love a heart can give by two special parents and their adoring families and friends. My God continue to bless you and your children. I love you! OXOXOXOX Love, Your Cousin Sarah


Date:
Tuesday November 13, 2007

Comments


Date:
Wednesday November 14, 2007

Comments

Congratulations on the referral of your beautiful son! We adopted our little Mylee Nov 2006 from China and are discussing adopting a little boy from Taiwan. They are precious! Valorie www.ourtwolittleblessings.blogspot.com www.myadoptionwebsite.com/waitingformylee


Date:
Saturday November 24, 2007

Comments

Linda & Bruce~ May I first say how happy I am for you both. I know this has been a long, beautiful, heartbreaking, and blessed journey that you have both been on. I check up on your progress from time to time and was overjoyed to see your beautiful son Jay and look forward to seeing Sianna. I know it is probably a shock to hear from me, but I think of you both often and wish you all the best. God has finally blessed your family! Love to you both~ Alyce


Date:
Tuesday November 27, 2007

Comments

linpatton, I have enjoyed your post on RQ for soooo long now...I'm so happy for you!!!youre site made me cry. Laurie


Date:
Tuesday November 27, 2007

Comments

He is Beautiful! And you have Birthmother information? what an amazing gift- most particularly coming from China. Wishing you speedy travel, what a beautiful little boy! Congratulations! Kelli (www.kelliinportland.blogspot.com)


Date:
Tuesday November 27, 2007

Comments

Rudd has a beautiful, mischevious smile. I just love it! Tracy Day -- but my maiden name was Patton! ;) (tlday13 on Rumor Queen's site) LID 1-12-06 for Georgia Grace or David Raymond


Date:
Tuesday November 27, 2007

Comments

I just read your road less traveled portion of yoru blog, and I feel like I could have written it (with a few differences). I definitely feel like this road is right for me as well. We just got our DD Charlotte from China on 10/29. I am so happy for you and your referral of adorable little Rudd! CONGRATS! Tracy


Date:
Wednesday November 28, 2007

Comments

We adopted our daughter (who was always our daughter, somehow), in February of 2007. Although we are now home, I am still addicted to the Rumour Queen, and it is there I saw your Web address. Your Web site is the most beautiful I've ever seen. I wish you much joy in your journey as parents. We are blissfully happy and I have no doubt you will be as well. Monica K. www.monicapaulclairew.blogspot.com


Date:
Saturday December 01, 2007

Comments

Bruce and Linda What a journey you have already traveled! Your children will be so blessed to have you as parents and when they become teenagers and dare to say those words that all teenagers say..."You don't love me!" You will be able to say with such confidence that you most certainly love them and have loved them...even before they were born. We all love them already and can't wait to meet them. Thank you for sharing this amazing journey with all of us. We love you all. John, Beth, Erin and Jessee


Date:
Friday December 14, 2007

Comments

Congratulations to you!!!! We have a little linebacker from Taiwan, too! When our China adoption wait started to increase (LID 8-10-06), we decided to adopt from Taiwan in the interim. So, like you, we will have babies from both places. Hope all goes well for you! Don't forget to pack a small thermos so you can fill it up with hot water at the hotel and then make bottles while out sightseeing...great for the airport, too! Tish www.youbelong.net/goff www.1sttimemama.blogspot.com