Sunday, April 25, 2010

A NEW POSSIBILITY

I was talking this morning to a friend that actually just got home from China yesterday. They adopted a 3 year old that is so stinkin cute! Anyway, she and I were talking about my up and coming trip. I was telling her that we still haven't decided who will be traveling. She suggested that I travel alone, and take Julianna (5). She knows Julianna very well, and knows that she would really be a great traveler. She is *very* go with the flow, loves to be on the go, and really has a heart for China (and all things Chinese). My friend also mentioned how great it would be for Willa to have another child there that is her age.

So I am really considering that option. Brad and I had talked about that a week or so ago. I just never thought it could be possible. Obviously, it would be ideal if we could all travel (and I am not ruling that out), but in case the finances do not work out, I need another plan.

I do think that Julianna is great company. She would for sure ease my loneliness. She really is super easy to take care of. I think if I could just pack light, make sure she understands the importance of holding my hand at all times, etc... it could be done. I know most people would think I was crazy for considering that, but with the boys not there, honestly, it would be like a vacation. HAHA! I love my boys with all that I am, don't get me wrong. However, they create, well... chaos. Traveling with Jules would seriously be super easy. I would cherish that time with her. Anyway, I would love some feed back from others. Please, please comment and share your thoughts. Also, if any of you should choose to accompany on said trip to China, I wouldn't hate that either! LOL!

Are you all tired of my travel ramblings? I am sure you are... LOL

9 comments:

Stacie said...

I think that is a totally viable and non-crazy option! I think it would be a wonderful experience for Julianna and you! And a very good bonding time for the girls in the family ;-)

Tara Anderson said...

I wish I was travelling the same time you are...I would love to be your travelling buddy! You think we can talk the CCAA into speeding up my paperwork so I can go with you? :)

Amy Murphy said...

I don't know your little girl or how easy/difficult she is to take care of, but if I were travelling alone, there is no way in the world I would take another child with me. Most of your time is going to be spent bonding/attaching to your new little one, and it could be intense. I'm not saying it will be, and you might have a great experience, but your Jules may find herself being a little ignored because of the time you need to spend on new little one. Or she may be just what new little one needs to feel comfortable in your family, who know!? But if it were me, I would not take another child, unless I had another adult to help. That's just me.

TanyaLea said...

Keep talking about your travels all ya want, sweet friend... I know the excitement VERY WELL! :) Can't wait to see that Sweetie home with you. Praying that God provides the finances to cover everyone He wants along on your travels!

Blessings,
~Tanya

Valerie and Jeff said...

I love the idea ... but I really worry about the reality that I keep reading about when these precious children mourn the loss of all they have--that taking the leap of faith into your arms. Oh my. I really want your husband there for you so you have that adult help for her and for you. Not that I'm not with you if you decide to go forward with the girl-plan ... I just am thinking of the stress that might arise with 2 children and one parent.
It'll be good to get a bunch of opinions to help think it over. You'll do what is best, I'm confident :-)

Blondie said...

I believe it's the perfect plan.

From all of us with love said...

I am still praying for your travels. I said earlier that I traveled alone in October-Novemeber and I was so thankful I did. The bonding time is so important and intense. But, the decision is up to you and your family. To be able to skpe home was wonderful and uplifting. The luggage through the airports and security was difficult to manage, but I only had one carry one and one checked luggage. I also stayed in Guangzhou for the entire two weeks. I opted not to go to Beijing - one was cost the other was traveling in country with a 44 pound weight limit on luggagge. But, we will keep praying and see what God has instore for your trip.

from all of us with love said...

I just wanted you to know that I am still praying for your travels and looking forward to you adoption.

roomforatleastonemore said...

Hi, I wanted to tell you that my DH had planned to travel alone with our 11-year-old son to bring home our 10-year-old son. Now I am going with them but that is another story.

Anyway, we too thought that our 11YO going will really help our waiting son. I have heard many families say it helps to have another child along when adopting an older child.

I guess my biggest worry for you would be that the girls are a bit younger. But you said your friend who just traveled knows your daughter well, so that is huge for you. Your friend obviously knows how hard the trip is.

Our DD was very ill when we got to China, so that would not have worked for her but our son seems to be doing well as does your DD so I wouldn't worry about that angle.

Would your daughter J stay with you if you had to run through the airport? (I mean, just something to consider.) I know I have one son who would have and another who might not have at that age! DD no way at 4 1/2. :) Oh, and if you did decide to do this, be sure you can take meds for you and J if you have tummy issues. You don't want to be stuck in a hotel room sick with two children by yourself. The cipro works wonders though!!!

I don't think this possibility is a bad idea, and it really does depend on the child you're taking and her personality. We have told our 11YO son that he will have to place his feelings and wants well below his brothers for this trip. We have not sugercoated it.

Because of your girls' ages, I do think if you did this it would be ideal if you had another adult who could travel with you. Maybe a grandma or a girlfriend?

Virtual [[[hugs]]] as I know the feeling of not wanting to leave anyone behind and yet feeling like you can't take everyone. It is very hard either way. BTW, I'm thinking we might travel together! We are waiting to be cabled any day now too!

Leslie