The Newill's Journey of Joy

Could I be a carry on?

Nov. 4th -As we near the end of this journey (hopefully), we thought we send a brief update before we travel home. We have heard from our facilitator that the US consulate has visited our orphanage, so we hopefully will have approval on Mon. or Tues with a Visa appointment the following day. This could me that we might leave on Tues. pm or not until Thurs or Friday, time will tell. In the meantime we have been trying to occupy our time and our minds with daily excursions here and there, which we are quickly tiring of (the kids too I think) The walls on our hotel room are definitely closing in on us! I cannot imagine how much harder this would be in a standard hotel room. Sleeping for the most part is continuing well, except for last night when Troy says they teamed together and took turns screaming to break down our resistance and for about 4 hours it was non-stop crying! I'm surprised our neighbors didn't call the front desk on us. Troy is wondering how our man-to-man defense will last for the next 3 months when we'll have to chang to zone :) Everyone is thankfully feeling fine, although I have lost another pound. We're not worried though, as Troy has our meals for the next month completely planned out! The kids are great and already growing! Josiah has gone from having difficulty picking up things to becoming an astute self feeder! Jayleigh has gone from not sitting to sitting up on her own for 20 min at a time! Right now she has a small cold, which she has shared with mommy, but nothing serious! Josiah has gone from not wanting anyone but daddy to willingly accepting kisses and hugs from strangers on the street, even going to them when bidden. Troy's happy moment for this weekend was finding not 1 but 2 KFCs somewhat close to our hotel. He says it's not home, but it's still "finger lickin' good!" It looks like we might have to change hotels tomorrow, but will not know for sure until the am. I spent last evening packing up most of our things, which was very exciting although possibly premature. It's funny how I went from, I have to make everything fit to, How do I prevent this from breaking? On our flight here we had 2 checked bags and 3 carry-ons for 3 people. On the way back we'll have 4 checked bags and 3 carry-ons! Please be in prayer for these little ones on the return flight home. Josiah is not one who likes to be still or cramped! Although we've settled into what somewhat resembles a routine here, it is unusual to think of the changes that have taken place in the past 2 1/2 weeks. Yesterday we learned that Troy and I have neglected our husband/wife relationship in front of the kids as Josiah threw a fit when Troy gave me a hug and a peck on the cheek! We've quickly remedied that, but please be in prayer that we remember to keep our marriage before our parenthood. Otherwise all is well, and we hope to let you all know when we'll be returning home! Keep us in your prayers as you are in ours.

Nov. 1st - Wow! The past 2 days have flown by as we have been fitting in lots of things the past 2 days. For starters, yesterday we awoke to pouring rain and temps in the mid 60s. Boy did I wish I had brought a sweatshirt! I would have never thought that I would say those words here in VN, but it is totally true! Troy even broke down and bought the kids each a sweatshirt so that we could do some siteseeing without the constant rebuke of strangers telling us the kids should be dressed warmer! We started yesterday with the Vietnam museum of ethnicity which was very interesting regarding the heritage of this beautiful country! We took lots of pictures (for those of you who were asking, we've taken probably close to 700 pics) and learned a lot, which we probably won't remember! I'm trying to write things down as we learn them in order to somehow pass them on to the kids when they are older. We then spent yesterday afternoon at the water puppets show which was fun. Josiah liked them at first and then became a little restless, thankfully, Grandma kept him quiet with Prawn Crackers (his favorite) for the last 30 min. or so of the show! Jayleigh on the other hand did not enjoy the loud music and cried whenever she didn't have a bottle in her mouth (she drank 1 1/2 bottles in a little over an hour!). It was still fun, crying kids and all and we even stayed in the Old Quarter for some more shopping! It started to drizzle and Josiah laughed and giggled the entire time (Like I said, he's all boy!). Jayleigh decided she didn't like the rain and instead chose to ignore it by taking a nap while strapped to mommy in the baby carrier! Much like yesterday, today we tried to stay busy with a visit to the Army Museum. It was a lot of fun and we got a lot of cool pics! The weather is still cool and rainy and should continue for another day or so before it clears up. Tonight it is also really windy which makes the mid 60s temps feel even cooler. Troy is so thankful it hasn't been hot, especially with our extended stay. That's about it for now. Still having trouble loading pics. Hope all is well.

Oct. 30th                                                                                                                   

Yesterday we had our INS appointment and learned that it takes 1 week to process, so we will probably be here until next Thursday, but there is a small chance it could be sooner! (Which of course is what we're hoping for!) The interviewer was very kind and stated that he visited our kids orphanage not too long ago and remembered both kids, but especially Josiah. He said Josiah was all boy even then! It was neat to have a little tidbit to pass along to him when he is older. Today we took the kids to have medical exams. Josiah is 17.3 lbs and Jayleigh is 13.3 lbs! They are both very healthly and developmentally on track (the doctor said that Josiah was actually advanced). Jayleigh does have what the doctor suspects is an abscess in her arm that is not acute, but will have to be examined further when we get back to the states. The doctor did offer an ultrasound while we are here, but said either way she would probably have to have a minor surgery to have it removed, so we decided to just wait. Otherwise they are happy, healthy and growing! Josiah is becoming a little bit of mommy's boy (at least on some days) and Jayleigh is mommy's girl all the way. She has stolen her daddy's heart though and so I can definitely see myself fade into the background as she gets older! Josiah's new favorite word is "hey" which is what daddy says to get his attention and which Josiah loves to repeat! They are both doing well and sleeping much better (boy is mommy thankful!). Cannot wait to see you all soon, the week will past quickly!

Oct 27th
Just a quick update. Our INS appointment is Monday in the afternoon. Please pray that this will be processed quickly to shorten our delay as much as possible. Also, please be in prayer for Michelle, our travel buddy who is very sick. Will try to keep you posted! Love the Newill's
Oct. 23-26th
The past several days have been pretty much the same routine. We (the kids) wake up between 5-5:30am and spend about 45 minutes in bed with mom and dad who are reluctant to wake up! This is probably my favorite time of the day as both kids are so happy and funny! It's hilarious to watch the 2 of them interact with each other. Jayleigh is enamored with her big brother, watching every move he makes with intent. Josiah prefers to ignore his sister most of the time, except for the occasional hair grab and foot biting, both of which make his sister laugh! He now gives kisses upon request and will kiss his sister on orders in the morning and at night. Josiah is definitely jealous of his sister when daddy holds or feeds her and has on several occasions stolen her bottle for his own snack!
The kids usually take a mid morning nap and a mid afternoon nap. When we can coordinate these naps together, Troy and I run downstairs for groceries, e-mail, or just to spend some time alone. We are so thankful Troy's mom, Karen, is here! We try to go somewhere each day just to break up the week. We've mostly gone for walks and visited an occasional museum. The days pass slowly and as all new parents know, the nights pass all too quickly! Josiah is now completely comfortable with mommy and at times prefers her to daddy. He no longer cries when Troy leaves the room, unless he is tired. He does occasionally cry when mommy leaves the room (which I selfishly delight in!). Both children are usually very happy except around nap time which is normal for all kids. Jayleigh loves to be read and sung to. Josiah loves books, but prefers chewing on them to actually reading them! It's amazing how quickly things have changes as we've gone from a couple to a growing family! We all are doing well and cannot wait to come home!

Oct 22nd
Today started off as a disappointment as Anna called to say that no appointment were available this week for our INS interview, which will delay our stay another week. It was difficult, but nothing else could be done. To perk ourselves up, we went for a walk around the lake again. The weather was beautiful with a strong breeze. We p[aid a small fee and observed the temple like place for offerings. The smell of incense is constant as one walks the city streets, but it doesn't compare to the smell inside this place! I thought my lungs would close with an asthma attack, so we did not stay long, but it was interesting to see the young an old alike offering up their incense and prayers. It is easy to tell the Lake is a huge tourist attraction because the locals approach with everything from fans to postcards to guide books and knick-knacks. There are also many beggars, most with physical disabilities. One lady held her child with a cleft lip, begging anyone to buy postcards from her "for baby." It is sad to see. Overall it was a good day to get out of the hotel especially with the morning's disappointments.

Oct 21st
We ventured outside for the first time today with our baby carriers strapped on! Josiah was definitely nervous and clung to his dad like a life line, but did okay. It's amazing how new this all is for him. He studies everything, quietly taking in all that he seesl . As we walked the streets, his eyes were so big! Jayleigh also did well, until she fell asleep on the the walk home and mommy had to carry around her dead weight! (Boy am I thankful that I've lost 20lbs instead of gaining it the past 6 months!) We stopped at the grocery to buy more diapers and formula and I am quickly realizing how drastically I have underestimated the amount of "supplies" needed for these troops!
Today we discovered that these little ones skin is too sensitive for nightly baths. Their cheeks, ears, and necks have broken out with dry itchy patches, despite constant baby lotion applications! We'll have to keep an eye on it! Night time has shown little improvement. We've moved the crib into the living room in hopes that an occasional "cry it out" will help little Jayleigh's night time wakening.

Oct 20th
Although a daddy's boy, Josiah is definitely warming up to mommy! He gives here the biggest smiles, laughs, and giggles and even lets here feed him a few times today! He still cries when Troy leaves the room, but each day will be an improvement. He has started saying mama and dada, although it is indiscriminately. Jayleigh is sitting up more and is settling into the family!

Oct. 19th
After a rough night of little actual sleep for any of us, we approach today to discover these little ones. Here's what we learned today. As expected, Josiah refuses to leave his daddy's side. He is quite an active little one who crawls well, pulls himself up on everything (even the walls) and does some freestanding.! I once again thanked my hubby for baby-proofing the house prior to our departure! He also has 2 bottom teeth and is working on more, evidenced by the fact of constant pools (no exaggeration) of drool! Jayleigh is almost sitting on her own and loves to eat! At the orphanage, she was fed every time she cried, so she is accustomed to eating every hour or so. For now we comply, but hope to establish a better routine very soon! SHe hates to spend any time on her tummy and can roll form back to tummy, but not tummy to back! Her preferred position is being held in any position, which of course mommy is happy to comply with! She also is working on some teeth, but none are through yet!
The only other thing accomplished today was when Troy went down to apply for passports for the kids. They will be ready next Friday and we are one step closer to coming home!

Oct 18th.
What a precious, memorable day! We were told our Giving and Receiving ceremony would be at 2:30 PM, so we all took our time getting ready in the morning, wishing the day to pass as quickly as possible. When a phone call from Anna jump started our morning as she told us to be in the lobby by 9:30 AM (This was 8:30) With a rush we were ready and excitedly waited our 1 1/2 hour tour to Hung Yen. Anna explained to us that we would have 10 minutes to get our children, dress them and leave for the ceremony. Upon arrival we were greeted by 3 children who were definitely given a special cleaning up this am! Josiah was the first to be dressed and his nanny lovingly dressed him for the last time. It is amazing to me to how 2 women could love the same child as their own and then allow him to be taken away, essentially by strangers to a new life. I realize this is a hazard of their job, but it still amazes me and I am so thankful for the love they showed to our kids. As she dressed him, I was so thankful we brought a 12 month size suit for him, otherwise I don't think it would have fit! The nanny must have thought the shirt was too thin, so she put if over his existing shirt! With a quick kiss goodbye, she handed him to Tory and it was time to get Jayleigh ready. Her Her dress and hat fit perfectly and she looked like a happy little angel. Unfortunately, with all the excitement there was little time (and hands) to take pictures. We drove to the People's Committee where our ceremony was held. There were a lot more people present then I first expected. After signing several documents and having them reviewed by all who were present, the head of the Children's Department of Hung Yen said he was pleased to give us these children to love and care for as our opwn. Josiah slept through the entire ceremony, while Jayleigh contentedly was held in her mom's arms! The drive home was long, and a little surreal to finally have these children in our arms forever! The rest of the evening was spent getting acquainted and giving baths to these little ones! Neither one appreciated the baths, but tomorrow will be another day!
Oct 17th
Today was spent mainly with anticipation for tomorrow! We were going to tour Halong Bay, but I (Tonya) was physically and emotionally drained from yesterday, so Troy suggested that we forgo the tour and spend the day resting. We did take time to visit the prison museum next door to our hotel, called Hoa Loa Prison where various POWs were formerly held. It was very interesting to see the different cells and  means of torture used on Vietnamese prisoners who were held there by the French. They even had a guillotine that was used! After this brief tour, we walked a few blocks to a four story mall that had everything from fine jewelry to a grocery store on the top floor! We picked up a few souveniers and thanks yous for the kids and those back home!

Oct. 14

-  Today we awoke jet lagged as we struggled to stay in bed until 5:30 AM. Today started with breakfast at the hotel which was good and then later met up with our travel buddies from Anderson, Michelle and Chris who are adopting a 1 yr old little girl named Gracie from the same orphanage. We took a walk through the city as we were introduced to the VN form of signaling--that is beep, beep, beep and off you go! The sidewalks are also free game! The weather here is beautiful with temps in the low 80s and a strong breeze. As of yet, we have not felt the strong humidity, which Troy is especially thankful for! We rested the rest of the day, awaiting a call from Anna our facilitator here in VN.

Oct. 13

-  Today we left to make our long awaited journey. Dad dropped us off at the bus terminal to take to O'Hare. We were 2 hours early for our flight, thinking that security would take a while, however, much to our surprise, we flew through security in 5 minutes! We then awaited our turn to board Korean Air to Seoul. The flight was smooth and without difficulty. The food was less than desirable, but when isn't airline food? We were lucky enough to receive bulkhead seating which allowed us about an extra 2 feet of extra foot room! On the 14 1/2 hour flight we discovered what a blessing this was! Our plane arrived on time which left us with a 3 1/2 hour layover in Seoul. At this point we were very tired and honestly dreading another flight, but Troy brightened the evening with Cokes for all! Our second flight was a little more cramped (Troy says we were sardines) and less comfortable, and the four hour flight took forever, until finally we arrived in VN! Ours was the last flight in, so going through immigration took all of 5 minutes and then a 3 minute wait until both pieces of luggage came around on the conveyor belt on the baggage claim. Then it was 2 minutes through customs after which we were greeted by a man holding a sign with our names on it! A 35 minute drive took us to the hotel where we were pleasantly greeted by a beautiful room with 2 bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, and a full kitchen with washing machine and dryer! Thanks for all the prayers, we are so excited to be here!