What is going to happen today?

That was the question pressed in our hearts as we faced our first full day with Abby ~ Yi Ya. Our agenda for the day was to return back to the civil affairs office sign documents give a load of money over then find a local Wal-mart.

Our departure time was set for 8:30 AM, so at 6:30 AM I nudged Candi out of deep sleep so she could be ready. After a shower, Candi wakes up Abby - we both could not believe our eyes…she pops up from sleeping with a big smile…SHE IS A MORNING GIRL! Ha ha, this means that Candi will not have a chance now once we get back home!

Candi had packed a couple outfits - so today's fashion statement was a "multi-colored sweater with ruffled cuffs then covered with a girly pair of denim overalls with pink buttons." When on, Abby acted almost as if she was modeling her new duds…classic.

Once down in the lobby we were blessed with a grand breakfast - large selection, but no biscuits'n gravy . Abby tried some hash-browns and a little fruit, but then I found the rice and there was no holding her back.

Following breakfast it was back on the bus for the civil affairs. On the way there, Abby sat on my lap by the window enjoying the close encounters of cars. It was funny to watch her as she would show more excitement at the newer cars would pass….this means not only does she like fashion, but the fancy cars as well. (Oh, my!)

Back in the civil affairs office each family would sign two documents both including a fee, then each would give the orphanage director a "donation." (side note: The other families had read the fine print on one of the many memos received leading up to our coming to China that stated bring gifts for the notary and register - notice I said, "other" families…some how we missed that one.) So, when Larry, our city guide, called us up we sat down at the desk and answered the questions from the register and signed the document and then the man said, "congratulations" - I said, thank you and shook his hand.

Candi was so embarrassed!!! The other families gave gifts we give ---- a hand shake!

We then had to wait for our turn at the notary's desk…while waiting off to the side, Larry, comes up and says did you bring any gifts??? MMM, no we did not. He assured us that it was ok. (but he may have just been saying that.)

When it was our time at the notary's desk the same thing…I almost had to bite my tongue to keep from laughing at myself. The lady says, congratulations…Candi, gets up and exits quickly - and I give my HAND SHAKE!!!!

The only thing left to do is hand over our "donation" -- Honestly I felt like a mobster carrying all the loot and was happy to get rid of it!!!

OK - let's go to Wal-mart… not really, but equivalent. Just a few minutes away. There we were able to purchase some drinks and other goodies for the room to try to offset the food expense. We also bought Abby another outfit and PJ's. Again she was so happy! She looked like she was at Disney, eyes big and bright and a smile that would not fade. Thank you Lord!

After making it through the store we were the first to check out. We then waited for the other families at the KFC (that's right - we do chicken right) located in the same building. This is where we would have lunch…much cheaper. Again thank you Lord.

Throughout the day, as each minute passed Candi and I saw Abby opening up to us more and more. Her little personality shining bright with joy at her new surroundings and family. God is so good to us all. The joy of walking in obedience to God's calling is unmatchable and unbeatable. I thought late last night of a what if question - "what if we had said no to God's leading?"

Our lives would have continued…yes, but so much would be missed!

(As I write that final statement on this post I am once again driven to tears @ 4 something AM. Knowing that in just a few minutes from now another day is going to begin for us here in Nanjing, and yes our day is going to begin with that - What is going to happen today - question!"

Thank you Lord!