March 25, 12
A brief update on the stuff we have been doing so far since we have arrived in Guangzhou, China. Today we went to a Buddhist Temple. It was amazing and so beautiful. We took so many pictures. We participated in a Buddhist blessing. Yes, the pastor of Restoration Church and his family participated in a Buddhist blessing. We both thought sure why not? The truth is we just wanted to experience some of China’s religious culture but we are firmly confident of our truth. The funny part is even Mia in her own little way was expressing her beliefs. Like when they give you a coin to try and throw into a little hole for good luck she confidently took the coin and placed it in her own pocket as to say I don’t need your luck but I will keep your money. Then we went to a bird park where they sell thousands of birds to people as pets. IT WAS SO DISGUSTING. I mean I HATE birds so for me it about put me into cardiac arrest. Not only were there thousands of birds-with thousands of bird poop-but boxes of worms for food for the birds. We did take pictures to show Aiden because he knows how much I hate birds.
As far as Mia’s progress. She is a tough little cookie. She is so stoic and quiet but we are slowly getting her to smile and laugh. She is also a very stubborn little girl. It has been very hard for us to tell if her fits are from the stress of being adopted to some strange white people or if it is because she is 2 and not getting her way. I just go with my gut and hope I am right. She has had a hard time recently going to bed for night-time and nap. I think she just wants to stay up and play. Anthony is getting closer and closer to her. I just realized I really need his help and have to encourage her to let him take her.
So I as usual forgot my tip last time so I will just post them as I think of them. First is don’t tell me-or anyone else who is pregnant or adopting with small children-how hard it is going to be. Trust me I am a mother to Adelaide and Mia I know how hard it is going to be. I sat here last night as she cried uncontrollably and thought I can’t do this. But what was I going to do tell my body not to be pregnant with Adelaide or tell China “no we don’t want our daughter right now can you hold on to her for a little while.” It is going to be hard so encourage. Use your words to tell these adoptive parents the truth of Christ. That is what they need to hear because they hear enough doubt in themselves. Last tip is from Anthony. He says to “remember food is the great equalizer.” Yes we reward good behavior with food. Since she has a hard tim excepting him he gives her all the rewards..which are 2 M&Ms. And when she is upset we can distract her or comfort her with food. So come knowing that kids are still very primal. They want to feel love through shelter, security and safety, and food. They will feel safest in your hotel room and they open up the most during meal-time. And on the flip side they will act up when they are hungry.
Keep praying for our patients and her openness.
outside the gate 
I love hearing how you are doing through your words! Mrs. Whitten, who is an English major, said that you both were great writers and that she felt as if she were there with you. I noticed in the picture of you holding Mia, that was posted yesterday, that there was a faint hint of a smile on her face! She is changing in each picture! You may not be able to tell as much because you are with her 24/7 but she is!! I went into Wasbi Bowl today to talk with the owner…yes, I know only mom! I had her tell me how to correctly say hello. She said, with your dark hair she will like it! She asked a lot of questions and said for you to bring her in soon! She also said that it was common for Chinese Americans who worked a lot and did not own their own business here to send their little ones back to China for relatives to raise and that when they came back to them they spoke very little until the had become accustomed to them again. I said, can you imagine sending your little boy away…she said NO! I can’t wait to see what God has planned for Mia and for you and Anthony. The scripture tell us that God’s plans are bigger than we can imagine. I love you and miss you so much! Mom
I love you guys. It was so good to see your faces and hear your voices on the conference call this morning. You are so loved. You can do it.
I echo what Sharon said 100 fold and agree also that Mia’s face is softer in her pictures (your Mom is very intuitive). Carin, I am praying that the Lord provides physical and mental comfort for you in the midst of all that happens to you today and that Mia internalizes that “blessed assurance” that we all feel as adopted children of God. Nancy T
Carin, I was very impressed with a statement you made in an earlier post “He didn’t send me half-way around the world to take on a job I’m not
meant to do”. I think this may well become your mantra! I can’t even imagine doing what you and Anthony are doing and I know that it is going to be difficult and demanding. Three children in anybody’s world is difficult, much less one of them from another woman, culture and country. Don’t be too hard on yourself. As mothers we sometimes see only our failures and the things that don’t go as we planned. The fact that Mia allowed you to cradle her with a blanket and rock her to sleep was a victory, a smile may be the next…..and oh my goodness a hug and kiss will be the ultimate joy of your year! These are all victories and smiles from God while in the throes of the battle. Cherish the little things. She’s a child and what they want more than anything is love and security. I know the Orzo family will give plenty of that. Blessings and love to all of you,
Gayle Maestri
By the way, Anthony has the right idea. Food is a great equalizer, especially M&M’s. We’ve been using them for potty training with Lisa’s son Owen 🙂
A friend sent me this message and i am passing it on to the both of you (especially Carin) with much love, hugs and kisses…. When life looks you in th eyes and tells you “YOU CAN’T” GOD is holding your hand and telling you “YOU CAN” this helped me through a hard time with Grandma Mary and I know it will help you with Mia. Grandma is still hanging tough and Mia is a whole lot tougher .
You both come from strong willed families and I know Mia will be just fine.Miss and love you both, see you soon. XOXOxo
I have been praying for you all and just got caught up on your blog. What a testimony to God’s faithfulness! And Mia is adorable! Did you know that Steve and I are about 5 miles from LAX ? Do you have a long lay over on your return? Please let us know if we can do anything for you!
Celebrating with you the great things God has done!
Praying this verse for you all right now…Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Aiden says; hey mom, I want to see the bird pictures on the computer! I love you and daddy and can’t wait for you to get home. This morning a birthday cake made out of pancakes with sprinkle’s! Granddaddy caught a drum fish and a sailors choice and it was a good size. I had them for dinner.LOVE AIDEN