China trip - Day 4 (Gotcha!)

First, I may amend this posting later, once I can add pictures and details.  In the meantime, here is the short story of receiving Mei...

We arrived at the government official building.  Inside the first floor lobby, several babies were already present.  Behind the stair case, I thought I spotted Mei.  Glen, our guide went to talk to them while we waiting impatiently across the large lobby.  We were ushered up the stairs and got to give a brief wave to Mei.  We noticed that Avery and Mei's foster mom were also there!  I was crying and Jad was choked up.  But we weren't the only ones - Jaci was quietly crying.  Once we arrived on the second floor, we were asked to wait in a large room with couches and play area.  We stayed there long enough to see several other families receive their children.  Then we were ushered into another room.  When we walked in, we saw Mei.  She came straight to me and said "Mommy".  She looked at Jad and said "Daddy".  Melt my heart!  She was a little scared, but the girls quickly pulled a baby doll out of our bag of tricks.  We got lots of pictures and video, and also some of Avery.  Avery is Mei's little foster sibling who we hope to help find a forever family.  Mei's mom provided more information about her.  After about 30 minutes, she gave Mei a big hug and quickly left the room.  I ran after her and we exchanged a very long hug, talking to each other in different languages, but both fully understanding the other mother's heart.  She is amazing.  I will be forever indebted. 

Once I returned to the room, Jad held his arm outs and Mei climbed aboard.  Jad carried her proudly down the stairs and onto the bus.  After about 20 minutes, Mei got carsick.  The heat, crazy bus ride, and events of the day were just too much.  Once we arrived at the hotel, we went upstairs.  The girls all played together and before we knew it Mei was running around the room (yes, with those little club feet!), chasing her sisters and putting stickers on them.  Amazing.  After a quiet room service supper and bath, we are trying to simmer the girls down for bed.  Mei is fighting sleep and running around.  She was born in the year of the monkey, and it certainly fits her.  She is silly!  :) 

Thanks for all the prayers.  You'll never know how much we appreciated them!

Mei and foster mom as we entered the room

Finally in my arms!!!

Hanging on to mom

Our new extended family - Hubbard six plus foster mom and Avery

Mei and Avery looking at a book

Mei and Baba

Sticker fun in the hotel room

Smiles in the hotel room

More smiles from Mei

Love to all - Hubbard family of SIX !!!