Well, still waiting for Malia....

So they just updated the CCAA website a couple minutes ago and only matched 12/9 - 12/14. This still leaves me 8 days out log in date from my referral of Malia. It is hard to be so close and yet so far from seeing her face for the first time. I really hope they can still match me with Malia for January but it is going to be hard to know for sure at this point. I continue to do my best to enjoy the holidays knowing that shortly I will be with my daughter forever.

On a happier note, my sister gave birth to her son, Jude Christopher Hall, on November 21st. He was about a month early but they are both doing well. I lucked out and was already planning to be in Chicago with her for Thanksgiving so I was one of the first people to see him and hold him. He is a wonderful baby and made me realize how badly I am looking forward to being a mother. I can't wait for the moment when my life will change forever. Congratulations to the Hall family and their new addition!!!

In November, I also had my neighbors and friends shower. It was a ton of fun and I can't believe how everyone is so excited to see Malia. Thank you again for Donna and Betsy for hosting such a great event. Every little detail was perfect. They did a Nursery Book theme where everyone brought one of their favorite books for Malia. It will be so cool to read these books to Malia someday and be able to tell her who bought her each book while I was waiting.

My friend, Elizabeth, is also in China to get her daughter, Taylan. They return tomorrow and I will be going to the airport to welcome them home. It is so exciting to see more parents and children united forever. Elizabeth and Taylan - my best wishes go out to both of you!

I hope you all have a special, memorable Christmas. I can't wait until next year when my family will be complete. It is a great feeling to know that this isn't a dream and that my future is within reach. Always reach and work towards what you want out of life....