Love Grows Here : The New Day Foster Home Blog

NDSouth: An Outing for Our Toddlers

2012-02-02T14:50:00.003+08:00

With the holidays behind us, we started looking for a way to let the children spend their hong bao (red envelope) money. Then, yesterday, a visiting pediatric specialist told us we needed to find a way to increase Renee's calorie intake, even if it meant eating less-than-the-most-healthy of foods at times.

Then it dawned on us.. what better way to meet both objectives than a trip to our local western fast food restaurant!

While to most of us, this kind of food is all too common, this was quite a new experience for our older children, Renee, Hope and Jonah. Although a good time was had by all, the verdict on the food was somewhat mixed.

We started with the chicken nuggets..

although initially as unsure as the others, Renee

proved to be the most adventuresome,

Hope, on the other hand, never quite warmed

up to any of the day's fare..

we finally got her to sample a french fry..

Jonah absolutely loved his french fries!

and of course, the happy meal toys were fun for all

and once the ice cream was served, Renee quickly

met her calorie intake objectives for this day!

Wordless Wednesday: Five Little Babies, All in a Row

2012-02-01T11:22:00.001+08:00

It's A Dragon Cake!

2012-01-31T16:36:00.001+08:00

Can you guess what the Forever Home girls did during their holiday?!!

One of the things they did was make this cool dragon cake. Someone sent us a picture of one months ago (thanks Ruth) and we decided it'd be a great project during the Chinese New Year holiday. Holly and Elly put on some of the decorations.

Hannah, Holly and Elly thought this was pretty fun!

The girls had a great time making, decorating, and eating their dragon!

The Little Details

2012-01-31T11:38:00.001+08:00

Over the weekend, we asked a question on our facebook page. What do you like to read blog posts about? Among other things, one subject that was mentioned a few times was "the little details." Those small, though momentous in a child's eye, details that can so easily be over looked.

Today we're going to give you some details on a few of our children.

Like our Wendy, who is not camera shy at all. She's always willing to pose for a picture, as long as you let her see it when you're done. Then the funniest thing happens. Wendy puts her finger on the camera's viewfinder, and swipes back and forth - as if she's using an iTouch or iPad. How she picked this habit up, we do not know.

Then there's Calvin, who is almost always happy. If he's not, though, a mere smile in his direction will produce grins and happy, kicking feet from this charmer. Obviously, he's adored by all of his big sisters.

And CJ, who just has to be in the picture. Or Brooke, who noticed all of the attention that little brother Calvin was getting in her nanny's lap. She couldn't let that problem go un-addressed. Can you see glimpses of their personalities captured below?

Jonathan has always been a generally happy-go-lucky kind of guy. He's just recently figured out the crawling thing, and discovers new things every day as he explores the playroom.

Joshua is always proud as punch to show off his standing skills. He's getting stronger and stronger. He did the puzzle in his hand all by himself, along with three others. Feel free to be impressed.

Esther, an itty bitty thing who loves to coo melodically and be held, is tackling a new challenge: sitting up. She's not so sure that she likes it yet, but with a little practice here and a little practice there, Esther's nannies have high hopes that she'll be sitting up on her own soon.

Last but not least, one of our newest babies, Nathan. He's got a grin that could melt the Rockies. We discovered soon after he arrived, that Nathan's passion is dancing. Stand him up on your lap and suddenly he's footloose, bouncing and smiling as if he's doing what he was meant to do all along.

And to think of all the other "little details" that happen in a single hour for these special children! We'll try to keep ya'll updated.

Naptime Antics

2012-01-30T13:07:00.000+08:00

Rumors were circulating about the nap time antics of Angela and Samuel. Stories of them (somehow) maneuvering their beds so that they met in the middle of the bedroom... of the games they played and the mess they made.

Usually a nanny would catch them in the act and the fun would cease. Yesterday, though, we applied a different strategy: wait until the kids do 'their thing', then guard the door so that no one disturbs them and run and get a camera.

The mission was much more successful than we could have hoped. Not only was the room totally rearranged, but so were the should-be-napping kids. All three of them were in Wendy's bed, reading a book together and giggling like they were committing the silliest crime of the century.

The camera's entrance disrupted Wendy and Angela's discussion about the pictures of veggies in the book, and suddenly everyone was smiling for the camera. Then, they wanted to "kan kan!" (which is to see) the pictures that had been taken. Finally, we plopped Samuel and Angie back into their beds, pushed the beds back against the wall and hushed their repeated requests for, "just a little drink of water!"

But did the beds stay where they were placed? Did the kids finally close their eyes for a short afternoon nap? Maybe security cameras are in order, at least to stifle our own curiosity.

Year of the Dragon: Dancing the Night Away

2012-01-28T16:10:00.001+08:00

This is the last part in our series of Chinese New Year 2012 posts. Have you been enjoying them? (Fireworks; Dumplings; Our Little Dragons; New Year Kisses; Celebrating in South China; Festival Drums)

Dancing is a beautiful and exciting part of the New Year festivities. The nannies love to dance. In fact, our nannies are often waltzing with the babies as they practice their steps. Cora picked up her feet and danced a jig during the party last week. She looks like she's having fun, doesn't she?

Have you ever been at an event, where some random kids run onto the central floor, in front of everybody, totally lost in their own play-world? Noah and Timothy were 'those kids'. In between acts, right as the music was about to begin again, they came running in, playing ping-pong together with an escaped balloon.

And then there was Kendra and her foster mom. We love this picture, and the joy that is in both of their faces as they go a-whirling and spinning across the dance floor.

We hope that you have had a wonderful Chinese New Year. Oh, and the anwer to Tuesday's inquiry: How many dumplings can Samuel (age two) eat? 18

Year of the Dragon: Festival Drums

2012-01-27T15:42:00.000+08:00

She's the one who started it. Yes, that delicate, feminine, and 100% rambunctious Eliana. Finding the drumsticks laying out, and the drum set unattended, she decided to provide the pre-performance entertainment. A "Prelude," if you will.

Eventually, though, the guys decided that girls can't have all the fun. Joel and Elliot, with the help of Shushu Brian, formed a little band. They're nice little boys, so they included Eliana, letting her bang away on her own drum.

They're not quite professional yet, but we were impressed!

Does anybody own a dinner theater? We've got your opening act right here!
(Does anybody need a little boy? We've got the perfect one right here!)

Year of the Dragon: Celebrating in South China

2012-01-26T10:17:00.001+08:00

Although the customs are slightly different (we sorely miss the jiaozi!), this is indeed the most special time of the year here in south China. The children have really enjoyed the festivities and visits from our friends and neighbors.. especially receiving their 'hong bao' (red envelopes) !

Celebrations started with a staff dinner last week

naturally decorated orange trees abound in the south this time of year

we were all treated to a "dim sum" breakfast on the morning of new year's eve

the children dressed their best on new year day in anticipation of our visitors

everyone, including the nannies, received their red envelopes

well, ok.. so they weren't all "red"

sweet miss jewel stole the hearts of all our visitors!

little Marshall is growing every day!

benjamin REALLY enjoyed receiving his red envelopes!

correction.. "purple" envelopes!

we especially enjoyed having neighbors drop by for a visit

Kung Hei Faat Choi!

.

Year of the Dragon: New Year Kisses

2012-01-25T13:03:00.000+08:00

Year of the Dragon: Our Little Dragons

2012-01-24T17:52:00.000+08:00

Cora and Caleb were certainly dressed for the occasion at our New Year celebration. Don’t they look fine? Caleb’s outfit was given to him by a “grandma” and he could not have looked more handsome. He must have known how sharp he was looking, for he carried himself about very majestically.

Cora was captivated by the dancing performances that the nannies put on. She imitated their movements, clasping her hands and sighing with the music’s emotion.

Cora and Caleb are two of our most amazing little dragons. Neither of them should be alive today because of serious heart conditions. But not only are they alive right now, they’re thriving.

Year of the Dragon: Dumplings

2012-01-23T16:03:00.000+08:00

This is one tradition that I'm sure you all are familiar with. Dumplings, called Jiaozi in China, are the special New Year meal. Families gather together on New Year's Eve and prepare Jiaozi to feast on at midnight. Most families still prepare the entire dumplings from scratch - mixing the dough and then rolling out the wrappers - a long and tedious process. Pre-made wrappers are also sold nowadays, and this year we decided to take the easy road. The fillings were all prepared by hand, though!

The kids loved watching their nanny's fingers fly during the dumpling preparation, and then feasting on the yummy jiaozi. Samuel is the holder of NDFH's all-time dumpling eating record. Can you guess what that record is? We'll announce who guessed the closest guess later this week.

Year of the Dragon: Fireworks

2012-01-22T15:42:00.001+08:00

Fireworks are a huge part of Chinese New Year. For days before, and for days afterward, they are let off, filling the air with puffs of smoke, loud booms and bright lights. If it were daylight, the children would certainly love watching the fireworks get set off, but that's not often the case. We decided to show the children what all of the noise was about, so we set off some fireworks in front of the foster home, and then lit a dozen sparklers for the kids to wave about.

Wendy wasn't nervous at all! She is recovering amazingly well since her heart surgery, and gets stronger and stronger each day.

Angela was willing to hold her sparkler, as long as her nanny held it as well, and it was as far away as possible.

Claire got to wave around a couple of sparklers. She's a huge fan of fireworks.

Brooke, in her oversized coat, wasn't frightened of the sparkling wand in her hand.

Tonight, in China, more fireworks than you can imagine will go off. Even at this very moment, there are explosions going on outside. Are you doing anything to celebrate New Year's Eve?

The Apple of His Eye

2012-01-21T17:36:00.001+08:00

We can't begin to express how much we respect the foster families of New Day. They're amazing. Sage's family is a great example of dedication. Sage is the family's fourth foster child. They have two biological children as well, a daughter and a son. The son is married and lives nearby. H is self-employed as a driver, and fondly remembers each one of his foster siblings, admitting to crying when they left to be adopted.

All of the foster children came in to honor our sponsors last weekend, and Sage was brought in by her foster father. It was impossible not to notice the closeness between these two. She seemed so comfortable in his arms, and he looked so content. She's the apple of his eye, which is the best place for a little girl to be.

The Threesome

2012-01-20T13:02:00.000+08:00

A package came in for Emelia before Christmas, but with the pre-Christmas madness going on, we decided that it would probably be best to wait until after Christmas to give Emelia her gift. It would be more special for her, and we would be able to take better pictures.

Inside the package Emelia received three stuffed animals for her to share with her foster siblings. She happily picked out an animal each for Lucy and Micah, and then cuddled her new stuffed lamb close.

Micah

Lucy

After the distributing of the gifts, Micah and Lucy and Emelia bundled up in their foster mom's cart to head home for lunch.

We'll see you three later!

NDSouth: Spotlight on Hope

2012-01-19T20:14:00.002+08:00

The children really enjoy their play in the evenings after supper and before bedtime. Tonight, Hope was in an especially good mood and full of energy. With just a bit of encouragement from her nanny (tiao wu! tiao wu!), she entertained us all with her latest dance moves..

Wordless Wednesday: What's Wrong With These Pictures?

2012-01-18T13:56:00.002+08:00

It's Party Time!!

2012-01-17T17:02:00.000+08:00

Today was New Day Foster Home's Annual Chinese New Year party. As is customary, we all get together and make jiaozi then cook it and have a meal together. The Forever Home girls always love cooking and every opportunity to do that is a great time. After lunch, there were balloons, games, fireworks and performances. What a wonderful afternoon we all had!

Joel's Next Milestone

2012-01-16T16:56:00.001+08:00

Life is like a path, marked with milestones which are, daily, monthly and yearly, completed. Sometimes the milestones in life come naturally; sometimes they are difficult to overcome. Joel, in his short life, has completed his share of milestones. He didn’t begin his journey in the best of shape – a “disabled” orphan certainly has their work cut out for them – but during the past two years we have watched as Joel not only accomplished, but conquered, many milestones that should have been unsurpassable.

For much of his life, Joel’s mobility was very limited. Without therapy, he would spend the rest of his life limited to the four corners of his crib - unable to experience, unable to explore.

Joel’s weak legs didn’t keep him from getting around when we gave them the chance, and we discovered that he was skilled at maneuvering about on the floor. He became nearly independent, and could do so much on his own.

Therapy gave him strength. Braces enabled him to stand. Joel’s world began to open up but that wasn’t all. Joel’s physical horizons were not the only ones broadened; other things began to fall into place, and Joel was placed in a foster family. He was one of the top preschool students, so he joined our new Pre-K class. Joel did well. He learned quickly and soon was ready for another transition.

The time just seemed right, last month, for Joel to graduate once again into our backyard school. He now studies hard with Serena, Elly, Hannah, Alex and Holly, doing his schoolwork at the Kindergarten level. He’s learning things like math, Chinese, writing and PE. Recently, Joel was putting together a puzzle during the class’s “fine motor” period. Joel loves the challenge this new classroom brings him.

Of the many milestones in Joel’s life, two are still ahead of him - two very important milestones, both of which we cannot wait to witness. We dream of the day when Joel will take his first independent steps, and eagerly wait for the day when he will have a Mom and Dad of his own.

Joel is almost seven and a half years old today. Seven years is too long for a little boy to not be able to run and play. And seven years is too long for any child to be without a forever family.

But that spark is there, in Joel’s eyes. He is determined to do whatever he can to walk one day, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to make that possible.

Joel is a happy boy, but he’s also very aware that he is missing something. Even living in a loving foster family, he knows that there is something more. He’s watched his friends leave; he’s watched as they learned of their new families. Joel has rejoiced with them, but he needs a forever family too.

Could you be Joel’s family? Please e-mail foster@newdaycreations.com if you think that you are.

Practically Sisters

2012-01-15T18:06:00.000+08:00

Brooke and Angela are only two months apart in age, and arrived at NDFH within three months of one another. They've practically grown up together, and are the best of friends.

They're practically sisters.

Styled

2012-01-14T13:43:00.001+08:00

Joy's hair is usually up in pigtails, but the hair do-dads come off during naptime, and when she wakes up, this is what we see.

Roy's hair hardly needed the slicking up Sandy gave it, it faux-hawks on it's own.

The sweetest faces, deepest eyes, and most stylish hair... there's no out-doing our kiddos!

Getting His Wiggles Out

2012-01-13T12:56:00.000+08:00

Joseph is an amazing little guy. His nickname in the CCU is "小东西" which means "little thing." Not a month after Joseph was released from the hospital, following a very risky but successful heart surgery, he was strong enough to put his whole weight onto his legs. In fact, when we stood Joseph up in our laps or on the floor, he stood tall and strong. Laughingly, we imagined this svelte, not two-foot tall 东西, taking his first independent steps at 5 months old.

He has also learned how to roll over onto his belly all by himself. Joseph loves to roll, but after 1.8 seconds of tummy time he becomes frustrated, and not being the sort to let babies cry for very long, one of our nannies usually ends up rolling Joseph back over onto his back.

And when Joseph is on his back... that's where the fun begins! He kicks and wiggles and grins like a happy little baby should.

He giggles and the world lights up, brightening his future with every breath and beat of his tiny, healed heart.

NDSouth: Her Brother's Keeper

2012-01-12T16:43:00.004+08:00

Marshall has gotten strong enough that he can join the other children in the playroom at times. Big sister Renee was keeping close watch over him today.

Wordless Wednesday: Lena

2012-01-11T14:22:00.000+08:00

Celebrating the Firsts: Josiah's [almost] Walking!

2012-01-10T10:25:00.000+08:00

Josiah's first steps seem like they've been a long time coming. When he first came, he was so weak that even raising his head by himself was a nearly impossible task. Somehow, though, day by day he increased in strength. Month after month marked new goals met and challenges overcome. This month, his biggest achievement has been walking. He can't take steps completely on his own yet, but that day is getting closer and closer.

"Carpenter He" Can Fix It!

2012-01-06T09:29:00.001+08:00

Mr. He (pronounced "Huh") is the carpenter for the Foster Home and his handyman skills are put to great use in building and maintaining our foster home facility. The foster home children think he's great and a funny incident last week reminded us of how highly they think of him.

It was about time for Jabin to go in for his second lens replacement surgery. He and his "guardians" (Grace L and Brian) were standing in front of the elevator, ready to go up to the surgery floor. They watched the elevator lights blink on and off as the elevator went up and down. But the doors never opened. For some reason, the elevator never seemed to come to their floor, and everyone gathered at the elevator began to wonder if the elevator was broken.

Suddenly, Jabin spoke up: "It's broken. We need Carpenter He. He can fix it!"

--posted by Brian

NDSouth: A Trip to the Barber Shop

2012-01-05T17:41:00.006+08:00

(Warning! Those who voted "never!" in our poll of a month or two ago may find some of the images below disturbing and difficult to look at ;~)

Wordless Wednesday: No Glasses!

2012-01-04T13:44:00.000+08:00

Holly's First Day Of School

2012-01-03T22:56:00.000+08:00

Holly has been biting at the bit to go to school with Hannah, Serena, and Elly. All week I've told her we have to finish her assessment here at home, then she can go to school. After talking with Sarah, the principal, we decided I should be done assessing her on Wednesday or Thursday and she could begin school Friday morning. That pleased Holly when I told her!

However, as soon as we finished her assessment on Wednesday morning, she told me she was ready to go to school that afternoon:) I told her it'd have to wait until Friday as already agreed upon (also knowing they had a field trip to Beijing on Thursday already planned). She was clearly disappointed, but agreed.

The big day finally came and she was excited! Randy took the girls to school and, in their excitement upon arriving at New Day, Serena, Holly, and Hannah all ran ahead leaving Randy behind walking with Elly. As soon as he arrived at the classroom, just a couple of minutes later, Holly had--in her excited state--picked out her own desk and emptied the contents of whom ever's desk it was right onto the floor! She was sooo happy to be at school, she promptly picked a desk and made ready for school!! Randy, however, had the displeasure of informing her that she needed to wait for the teacher to assign her a desk and she would have to pick up all of that person's stuff and return it to it's proper place in their desk. She complied and proceeded to wait for her teacher to arrive. We knew she was anxious, but wow!

She Sings, She Dances

2012-01-02T14:51:00.001+08:00

The gifts had all been unwrapped and tummies were happily full after a delicious Christmas lunch. Then someone handed Serena and Alex microphones and the performances commenced! The "backyard school" students (Serena, Hannah, Alex, Joel and Elly) recited some of the poems that they memorized in class...

And then Serena sang a solo her piano/music teach had taught her!

Alex and Serena were a huge hit, especially among the little ones. Evie began to rock back and forth to the melody, which we thought was totally adorable.

Watching Evie and Serena's mutual love of music was very sweet. We know that these two musical-minded girls are going to go far.

Favorites of 2011

2011-12-31T15:29:00.001+08:00

It's hard to believe, but in the past year we have posted 300 blog posts. Some of them have been funny, some of them more serious. Have you read them all?

Our mission here on the blog is to share the joy and the hope, the laughter and the dreams, of these amazing children. We love sharing their stories and hope that you have enjoyed reading them this past year.

So, with the help of some of you on our facebook page, we've gone through and found our favorite, and most popular blog posts of 2011.

Hope

The Moment

This post is one of our most popular posts of all time. You had been following Jace's heart-longing for a family, and when his dream came true, all rejoiced. You can follow Jace's continuing story on his forever family's blog.

Two Daughters
"I thought of her the morning I first held my daughter, but I didn't yet know her name..."
(Sweet Vivian has been matched with a forever family of her own and is now named Kendra.)

Learning to Trust
Wendy's journey down the slide.

Unconquerable Joy
Ajay's life is a miracle in itself. Follow him and his family's long road to healing on their blog.

Beating the Odds
For the first time in his life, this summer, Philip stood up and walked.

The Learning Curve
Sage's miraculous story just kept getting better!

A Very Special Picture / A Miracle

Landon and Joshua have been through a lot, but their determination is going to help them go far.

Dreams

Much, Much Too Busy For Me
Joshua's family came forward just days after we posted this, and he is now matched with a family of his very own. They weren't too busy for you, Joshua.

Hannah's Question
...was answered! She is matched with a forever family.

Our Little Woman
Serena's transformation was divine, and now she has a forever family waiting to bring her home!

Noah's Grin

Noah is still waiting for his family, but that doesn't make his story any less amazing, or his dream any less beautiful!

Wordless Wednesday

Helping Mei Mei - February 9

Boys in a Bubble - March 23

Too Cool - May 11

Brother Love - June 15

Very Happy Kids - June 27

Fostering Love - July 13

Big Brown Eyes - August 1

An Infectious Giggle - December 13

Silliness
Vincent and Friends

This silly group of kids are all in their forever families now. We have no doubt they are adding a lot of silliness and joy to wherever they go!

Tony the Teacher

Tony's new name is Jabin, and he's still just as silly!

Tea for Three
Back when they first started preschool...

Peekaboo!
Joy and Roy keep us giggling with their silly antics.

With Great Power
...came great responsibility for Jayce (now CJ).

Sweetness

Together at Last

Cora and William are finally in the same preschool class!

Glad Tidings We Bring
The sweetest Nativity you'll see this year

The New Family in Town
Serena, Alex and Hannah start their own, creative little family

Tough Competition

Our amazing kids compare battle scars

Video

For the Cookie!

Josiah is motivated to stand in therapy by a yummy cookie.

Bouncing to the Music

One of our most popular posts this year! Polly, who is now Khloe and is living with her amazing forever family, has a song in her heart.

Philip and the Shark
Are you afraid?

Standing and Singing

We can't get over what an amazing miracle Philip is!

New Day South

Your Vote Counts / The Votes are In

Was it about time for little Asa to get his famous hair cut? We asked for your votes and the people spoke.

A Whole Lot of Growing Going On
Jewel crawls and Benjamin takes his first steps!

A Good Report
Renee recovers well after her spina bifida surgery

To Always Remember

Loving Carissa / In Memory

Her story kept getting more and more amazing. Her life proved again and again that love was bigger than hopelessness, and miracles more effective than the knowledge of doctors.

She Was Worth It
Paige left us unexpectedly and we went reeling, but loving her reminded us that it's always worth it. Our hearts were broken, hers is healed.

Did you have any other favorites we failed to mention? Please share yours!

A Little Puzzle Crazy

2011-12-30T13:40:00.001+08:00

Every morning, Anton spends an extended period of time in his bedroom doing nebulizer and oxygen treatments. His nanny spends that time with him, and together they come up with many new and creative ways to occupy the time. For example: the fun game they invented with a puzzle.

Anton is a little bit too young to be dexterious enough to put a puzzle together himself, but that didn't stop him and his nanny (Alice) from having a blast. Alice filled the puzzle tray in Anton's hands with loose pieces, and then Anton let them fly.

It goes to show what an exciting woman Alice is; she not only encouraged this activity... she invented it.

So, despite the clean-up and organizing requried after an activity like this, it's totally worth the happy and content child. Do you have any games to preoccupy your children that, upon first impression, don't seem 100% beneficial? Please share!

Christmas Day at New Day South

2011-12-29T16:34:00.000+08:00

Thanks to the generosity of our friends and sponsors overseas, there were many gifts around the tree at New Day South this year.

The children (and the nannies!) had a blast opening all the presents. We captured a bit of the fun to share with you all in our Christmas scrapbook.

Even Marshall, who continues to improve day by day, was able to join the party for a little while. He wasn't able to play with the big kids this year, but he felt right at home with the dolls..

Wordless Wednesday: Wendy is Home

2011-12-28T17:07:00.000+08:00

The Forever Home's Christmas Present

2011-12-27T14:26:00.001+08:00

Welcome to the Forever Home, Holly!

Just a few days before Christmas, Holly arrived here at New Day. We are so happy to have her join the Forever Home family. What an exciting time to join us with lots of parties, activities, and gifts!! Though we are concerned that her and Elly, who came just a couple of weeks before Holly, will be thinking that we have parties and gifts nearly every few days around here!!

As a matter of fact, that was what Elly thought one day when I mentioned we were going to New Day for another get-together. She got all excited and said, "Oh, hai you yi ge li wu!!" (we're getting another gift!) I had to burst her bubble saying no, not this time, we were going to eat together not get gifts. She had fun anyway.

It was Holly's first Christmas celebration, she said. She really enjoyed all the festivities of Christmas. She is doing very well here with us. She seems to enjoy our home and is adapting well. This week we've been assessing her to see what she knows and where she may have learning gaps. She is anxious to go to school with Serena, Hannah, and Elly. Probably Friday she will begin school with them at our New Day backyard classroom for older children.

Spoiled

2011-12-26T15:37:00.001+08:00

We have to admit it. We're spoiled. Christmas trees overflowing with packages, merriment and cheer spilling out of all cracks, and children - precious healthy children - who've defied all reality to be here today.

Not only have we watched as their medical needs are dealt with and then sometimes even disappear, we've watched as the sadness in their eyes becomes abundant joy. The great medical attention that they receive from amazing doctors helps them to heal physically... The foster families, mostly empty-nesters who saw that they could make a huge difference in a child's life, have loved incredibly.

And they get to witness, as they mold each tender heart with their loving hands, a child's beautiful transformation.

We love to watch this foster family below, as they're bursting with joy from three sweet blessings. Emelia, Lucy and Micah are very loved by their kindhearted foster parents.

Doesn't the family-ness of it bring tears into your eyes? This is what each child needs!

Timothy and Noah make us grin with their brotherliness. They've been together in a foster family for a long time and are very fond of each other. We assume that a lot of mischief goes on in their home as well, though. Thankfully, their foster mother is a patient and fun woman.

Jabin was released from the hospital after two successful eye surgeries, just the day before this picture was taken. He's without his glasses and he can see you. Two sweet boys, whose home is now crawling with all of the cars, trains and airplane that you sent. We've heard it said that their foster mom has a thing for little boys... no doubt Jabin and Landon are benefitting from this. If those chubby cheeks and milky eyes don't reflect hearts soaked with love... well, we could come up with other reasons.

Sometimes it's okay to be spoiled, and we think that these kiddos deserve it, especially after all that they have been through. And then we just have to say, "Thank You!" to all of you.

"Thank You!"

You guys have given these children a Christmas that they will never forget through your generous packages full of presents, your monthly sponsorship that keeps things running over here, and your donations. Lives are being saved, hearts are healing and hope is rising as love grows here.

---

Keep your eyes out on our website for the scrapbooks soon to come. Already released: Baby's First Christmas and Party in the Playroom. Coming soon: Foster Family Fun and A Southern Christmas (NDS).

We'll also be publishing photos on our facebook page. Share the Joy!

Glad Tidings We Bring

2011-12-24T14:47:00.000+08:00

Wendy's Christmas

2011-12-23T16:01:00.002+08:00

The doctors had told us the day before that Wendy might be able to move from mid-care into a regular bed the next day. We happened to be going to the hospital for Rebecca's surgery, and would be on the same floor, in the same ward, and just down the hall from Wendy's potential new bed.

So, with Wendy’s Christmas presents filling up a red bag, we saw Rebecca off as she went into surgery. And then we waited, hoping to be informed of Wendy’s room-change soon.

Good news! She was doing well enough to be moved, the nurse said. So with her presents piled up in one corner, we went into her room to wait. She came in a few minutes later. She was a bit flustered at first, but as soon as she saw her presents she knew. Reaching out, she began to tear into them, loving everything that she found inside!

The craft activity was an especially welcome gift. She broke into it right away.

Didn't she do a great job?

We're so happy that we were able to bring a little bit of Christmas to Wendy in the hospital. She still has a ways to go with regards to her recovery, but so far it's been nothing but miraculous.

Wendy's Christmas wish was to "go home!" and it's ours too. Get well soon, Wendy. Everybody here misses you.

NDSouth: Getting Ready for Christmas!

2011-12-22T18:02:00.002+08:00

Christmas is just around the corner, and the children can tell something "different" is in the air. Today, Benjamin and Jewel spent their afternoon play time 'rocking around the Christmas tree' together.

(we're going to have to get a video clip on here someday for

you guys to get a better glimpse of this little fellow's personality..)

.

Wordless Wednesday: Angie

2011-12-21T15:04:00.000+08:00

Noble Little Woman

2011-12-20T14:55:00.002+08:00

She's of the squirmy, delicate sort; strong yet fragile. Already, she has a name and a story.

Lydia, our noble little woman, arrived today. With her she brought the almost blank slate of her precious little life. There's a story waiting to be written on her searching eyes and in her tiny heart.

And it's been begun; her story is one of rescue and hope.

Lydia has already had one lifesaving surgery; we'll wait until she gets a bit bigger before she has her second. Until then, Love sounds like the best title for this chapter in Lydia's story.

The Perfect Accessory

2011-12-19T15:31:00.001+08:00

A package of headbands and hairclips was just the fashion boost our ladies needed.

Ella, who suffers so much, really wears headbands well. Doesn't she look dazzling in the bold blue?

A funny story about Brooke and Carolyn... They were playing together when we brought the headbands into the playroom. Carolyn's face just lit up when she saw all of the lovely colors, and positively glowed when we put a headband on her head. Brooke, on the other hand, didn't care to be primped up and refused her headband. So we handed the purple headband to Carolyn, who happily took it. Then, of course, Brooke wanted her headband. In fact, she wanted it a lot! Carolyn, being the sweet and caring sister, offered the purple headband to Brooke, who was then very happy to wear it.

Not only are you beautiful on the outside, Carolyn. You're beautiful inside too!

The babies didn't quite understand all of the excitement, but they did a great job modeling the headbands for us. Sweet Esther is growing more and more beautiful.

Little Angelic Lena... how we love you! Lena is getting stronger every day, and is, slowly but surely, growing.

Ah, Nicole. If you tell this girl that she's beautiful, she will thank you with one of her amazing smiles. Nicole has become more and more vocal recently. When she's pleased with herself (like she was after we showed her this picture!) she says, "Bababa." When she wants something, though, and is being impatient, she says, "mamama." Silly girl.

We have some beautiful little ladies, don't we?

Staff Spotlight: Goodbye Faith!

2011-12-18T15:18:00.002+08:00

When we heard that there was a special education teacher wanting to come to NDFH to volunteer for six months, what could we do but say, "YES!" Faith came near the end of last summer and jumped right into the work here. She was one of the catalysts that started our "Higher Learning" classes, and she spent a lot of time working with the preschool children who needed a little bit more help...

...like Eliana, who immediatly latched onto Faith as they spent time with each other each day. Eliana is doing so well. According to our developmental charts she's made steady progress since Faith arrived. It's amazing what a little extra attention can do.

Lucy joined morning preschool with the big kids, and Faith has helped her smoothly make that transition.

Everyone has their special children, and Faith sure fell in love with Noah! Of course, how could she not? He's handsome, charming and very smart.

And then the babies... who comes to a place like this and doesn't fall in love with the babies! Faith spent many afternoons pouring love into those sweet hearts and we are so grateful.

Thank you, Faith, for give these children six months of your life. Thanks for using your skills to teach them. You have made a difference. And for the most powerful thing of all, loving them, we thank you.

Crazy Cute and Elegant

2011-12-16T13:54:00.000+08:00

'Tis the month of December, and all through the month

There's been talk of the birthdays, soon to come up.

Elliot got his birthday packages early

And Roy, well he's checked into the hospital, sadly.

Jadeyn was left and my was she excited

For her first day in preschool, crowned with a tiara

The cake, it was chocolate

And the forks they did clatter

As those wide eyed preschoolers stared at it in wonder

From the children we could hear much rejoicing

As Jadeyn cut the first slice so that they all could dig in

Sweet faces, with chocolate frosting encircling their lips

Let out a sigh as Jadeyn opened her gifts

A baby doll, soft to be cuddled, then more!

Jadeyn also received a backpack that was filled up with toys

So proudly did Jadeyn put on her new backpack

Her new clothes stained with chocolate, made quite the picture

It's amazing to us how 'Short Stuff' has grown

It surely does seem that the time has flown!

In Surgery

2011-12-16T10:47:00.003+08:00

Update: Wendy's 6 1/2 hour surger was a success. Now comes recovery, sometimes the most dangerous part...

Wendy went into surgery earlier this morning. She has a very severe heart condition (TGA, DORV, VSD and scary high pumonary hypertension) and the surgery is very risky. Please join with us in hoping for a miracle for this sweet girl. We will keep you updated.

NDSouth: Marshall

2011-12-15T12:19:00.000+08:00

Although the doctors say Marshall's surgery was successful, he came home very malnourished, weak, and smaller than he was before surgery.

The two characters in Marshall's Chinese name mean "big, grand" and "strong, powerful".

Please join us in asking that love will again make a difference, and that little Marshall "out of weakness will be made strong".

Wordless Wednesday: An Infectious Giggle

2011-12-14T15:40:00.000+08:00

Happy to be Home

2011-12-13T19:44:00.001+08:00

Look who's home! Roy came back yesterday after yet another bout with pneumonia. He's been back and forth to the hospital a lot, it seems, but we have high hopes that he'll have his much-needed heart surgery soon and that his lungs will be strengthened.

Roy was very happy to be home, and quite willingly gave the camera a super sweet grin.

We missed you Roy! Thanks for getting better, and we sure hope that you stick around for a while, because there are quite a few Christmas packages with your name on them.

New On The Block

2011-12-13T15:30:00.000+08:00

Elly just arrived last week and we are still learning all that she can do. Among other things, we know for sure she can color awesome pictures like this one! Way to go Elly!

She's such a happy girl--always laughing and smiling. Keep on smiling girl, we're so happy to have you join us in the Forever Home!

The Story Behind the Picture

2011-12-12T13:59:00.000+08:00

Do you remember the day we dressed the children up in freshly knitted hats and scarves? Well, there's a little bit of a story behind one of the pictures.

Angela and Anton are close buddies. Very willinging will Angie go over to little Anton and give him a hug or a few kisses. So the other day, with Angela all done up in her pretty new scarf and the cameras flashing away, we encouraged Angie to give Anton a hug. "Come on, Angela!" we pleaded... Today, however, Angie wasn't in her perkiest of moods, and she just stared him down.

Anton, poor little guy, felt like he really could have used that hug. But until Angela became bright eyed and busy tailed again... it just wasn't going to happen. Anton had to find someone else to get his hug from.

P.S. Anton got his hug plus a few more, because there are some people here who can't ever resist his big 'ol puppy dog eyes!

A Gift that Gives

2011-12-12T13:50:00.000+08:00

The Christmas shopping season is under way. Everybody seems to be buying gifts for each other, rushing from store to store... or surfing the web for that perfect gift. Giving is important, and we always strive to give the present that would be most appreciated. But sometimes this task seems too hard. Dad has enough ties and Starbucks gift cards, and Grandma really isn't interested in another sweater.

Before you give up and buy another gift card, consider giving a gift that gives. New Day is sustained by its donors, and this Christmas you can give that special someone a gift by making a donation in their honor! Not only will you give them a present that they'll appreciate, but you'll also be meeting the needs of the children here.

There are two ways you can bless New Day this holiday season:

-Child Sponsorship
Choose which child you'd like to sponsor and we'll send the recipient of your sponsorship an initial sponsor packet with a photograph and information on the child. Throughout the year they will receive monthly e-mail updates with a progress report and a new picture.

-One-Time Donations
Give a one-time gift to any of our different funds in honor of your loved one. Donations can either be made through paypal or check.
In all of the above options the honoree will receive an e-card acknowledging the donation/sponsorship you made in his or her name and explaining how the gift will be used.

Thank you for choosing the gift that keeps on giving!

First Christmas

2011-12-09T16:51:00.001+08:00

We're feeling a bit of the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season here at NDFH. Packages have been arriving since Thanksgiving, we just decorated the foster home yesterday, and "Jingle Bells" has replaced "Old MacDonald" during songtime in preschool.

For most of our babies, this is their first Christmas! Nicole spent Christmas last year in the hospital, recovering from surgery. We're so thankful that she's here to help us decorate the little tree in the CCU this year!

Joseph has been through a lot during his short life, but he's made it. He is alive and strong and not totally sure he approves of the Christmas tree... Thanfully he's willing to help anyways.

She was fighting for her life last Christmas, and last week she was in the hospital with pneumonia. Claire came home a few days ago, just in time to help decorate. You had better stay healthy through Christmas, Claire, we have a lot of packages with your name on them!

And then we have Carolyn, our newest sweetheart. She's three years old and post-op for hydrocephalus. She's done so well during her first few days. We're touched by her gentle and quiet spirit, and the simple joy that she radiates as she explores her new surroundings. Welcome, Carolyn, you came just in time to celebrate your first Christmas!

First Christmases are magical, aren't they?

NDSouth: It's Beginning to Look a Lot LIke Christmas!

2011-12-08T21:31:00.001+08:00

This was no doubt Jonah's first hands-on with a Christmas tree. Like any 2-1/2 year old, he was quite captivated with all the beautiful lights and ornaments..

After the tree was decorated, we got just a bit creative (silly?) with some of the leftover decorations..

No worries about what will be under the tree on Christmas morning - packages of gifts started arriving from the states this week, and we hear more are on the way (thank you, New Day friends and supporters!)

Wordless Wednesday: Pied Piper

2011-12-07T13:03:00.001+08:00

Melissa's Adventure

2011-12-06T15:01:00.000+08:00

She's only one-and-a-half years old, but already going on her own adventures. Down the path, up the hill, through the trees, climbing stairs... she tugs her foster mom's hand and coaxes their little dog along. "Let's go!" she seems to say.

Melissa loves to go places. She loves to explore. Her foster mom says that, though she's not talking a lot yet, Melissa understands everything. She looks like a serious little thing at first glance... that's only because she's not crazy about new people. But hang around for a little bit and you may just get a glimpse of the gleam in her eye, and that irresistable grin.

Where are you off to today, Melissa?

Angelic

2011-12-05T16:24:00.001+08:00

Cuddles, coo's and those oceaneous eyes... Esther has us wrapped tightly around her finger.

And she loves to sing, melodies pouring from her delicate lips, melting hearts.

What do you see when you look into her eyes?

Comings and Goings

2011-12-03T17:28:00.000+08:00

Friday was a busy day! Elliot joined his new foster family, and is doing well. He and Joel are going to have a blast being together all the time... and their foster mom will probably be a little bit more tired now. But she's up for the fun that these two happy boys will bring into her home.

If anyone wasn't too happy about Elliot joining his foster family, it was Joshua. Joshua has been Elliot's roomate, and got a bit teary when it came time for Elliot to leave. We comforted Joshua by telling him that he will see Elliot in preschool every morning. I guess that it's still not the same.

And then, as Elliot left, Rosie returned! She recently had a procedure done, and then had to hang out in the hospital for further testing. We are so excited to welcome her back, and she is very, very happy to be home. As soon as she arrived, Rosie found herself passed back and forth between her nannies and those who love her. A contented sigh escaped from her lips every time they held her close.

Welcome home, Rosie, and we'll see you on Monday at preschool, Elliot. Don't be late!

Just Enough

2011-12-02T16:48:00.001+08:00

It snowed here in Beijing today! There wasn't a lot of it, just enough for all of the children (and staff!) to enjoy.

The littler ones watched it from the playroom window - faces smooshed up against the glass.

Alex, Serena and Hannah decided to turn today into a snow day. They even built a snowman! Somehow the dusting of snow added up, and they were able to create two big balls...

...which were just enough for their perfectly sized snowman.

Now that we've had a taste of how beautiful and fun snow can be... we have begun dreaming of a white Christmas!

NDSouth: Whole Lot of Growing Going On!

2011-12-01T12:09:00.000+08:00

For her first few months at the foster home, Jewel would sit very quietly and watch all the activity going on around her. In recent days, however, she has learned to crawl, and now she's on the move..

And not one to let a heart surgery slow him down, Benjamin recently took his first steps. We are all so proud of him!

Wordless Wednesday: Four Cozy Babies

2011-11-30T16:21:00.000+08:00

Peekaboo!

2011-11-29T12:57:00.000+08:00

Joy and Roy are quite the pair. They love to giggle, babble, be held and cuddled by their nanny, and play. Walking up into the baby's playroom the other day, this is what we found:

Joy and Roy were playing peek-a-boo with each other, and loving it! Check out Roy's grin, can you hear those giggles?

Joy is now toddling around, and it's not a rare sight to see her taking herself places she doesn't have permission to go...like the kitchen, or a sleeping brother's bedroom. One of her favorite things to do is to grab hold of Roy and Jonathan's little walkers and take them places. Her little brothers love the "rides" that they get through their big sister's adventuresome spirit, and Joy has certainly benefitted from the practice.

A Song in His Heart

2011-11-28T14:38:00.000+08:00

Noah's in morning preschool? Since when? Wow, he sure has learned the motions to the songs fast! When did he start?

Today.

Seriously? The day we took this video of Noah was his first day in morning preschool. He's brilliant, if we do say so ourselves. And, if anyone was more excited than Noah about his "graduation" into morning preschool, it was Timothy, his big foster brother. Timothy had the motions to "Mat Man" down pat, so he helped direct Noah's song-time enthusiasm to the right places... Noah was a little to excited to notice, but he did start catching on eventually.

Don't let Noah's "special genes" lead you to believing that his chances for a productive future are slim. We've already told him that he's smart and handsome and has a bright future. He's convinced. Watch the video and you will be too!

Hands We Can Trust

2011-11-27T16:07:00.000+08:00

The phone rang in the office earlier this week. It was one of the hospitals we work with, but they weren't calling about a child's medical case... they were calling the PR department because they wanted to schedule a visit. This amazing hospital, with whom we have worked with for quite a while, was interested in bringing 30 of their doctors and nurses to see our facility, to see who we were.

We can't begin to describe how indebteded we are to hospitals like these. Some of their most difficult cases come from us, yet they embrace the challenge that these precious orphans bring them. They don't do chartiy work with us, we would never ask for that, but they have agreed to take on some rather ill children and do their best to make them whole.

It's under their skilled hands that we have often placed our children, begging them to "do whatever it takes, just give them a chance." They have done what it took, and for that we are thankful.

Thankful

2011-11-25T13:40:00.001+08:00

...for Philip. It was said of him that he'd never learn and never walk. We're thankful that his will, determination and sweet heart have proven both predictions false. "Never" is not in Philip's vocabulary.

... for Angela. She's full of spunk, a complete doll, and has done so well in therapy that she may no longer need braces on her feet. Being willing to persevere even when it hurts, now that's spunk!

... for Landon, his big and gentle heart is now being nurtured in a foster family. He's doing so well, and if you happen to not be looking in his direction, will walk independently without his walker... As long as nobody's looking, of course.

... for Wendy. Her Indian face paint is beautiful, but not as lovely as the mask we don't see anymore. She's learning to trust and learning to love.

... for Elliot, who may look meek as he waits patiently for seconds, but just ten seconds would prove to you that he's a fearless leader who will stand up for his little foster siblings... and his pumpkin pie.

...and then we're thankful for you. We're thankful to our sponsors; because of you we can say "yes" to more children. We're thankful to those who donate to our medial fund, or sponsors surgeries; because of you lives are saved. And we're thankful to our blog readers; because you love these children, children who are not forgotten.

Two Little Indians

2011-11-24T14:44:00.000+08:00

All morning long Lily has been chanting, "我是 Indian!" (I am an Indian). And when Claire saw that the second costume was for her... nothing could beat that joyful smile.

Happy Thanksgiving! Pictures of our potato peeling party are in the scrapbook right now. We'll post about the feast tomorrow, as soon as we're done sorting through the way-too-cute pictures and cleaning pumpkin pie off of smiling faces.

Wordless Wednesday: Happy and Warm

2011-11-23T13:30:00.002+08:00

With Great Power...

2011-11-22T13:48:00.001+08:00

With great power, comes great responsibility. Jayce has been learning this lesson recently, as his little legs are growing longer, stronger and more willing to take the neccessary steps in order to walk... literally.

Josiah had a cold and a bit of a runny nose. Jayce, being the ever-present, "mama's boy," was standing close by when Josiah got his nose wiped. Josiah's nanny turned to Jayce and ask him to "put this tissue in the trash can." Disclaimer: we do not condone any sort of germ-passing, and believe that this action violated basic rules of sanitization... but it was just so cute we couldn't bear to stop little Jayce (we just had to make sure that his hands were well-washed afterwards.) So Jayce took the tissue from the nanny, toddled over to the trashcan, and dropped the tissue inside.

From our quiet little Jayce, still such a baby compared to all of the other sweet ones in the downstairs playroom, his actions were downright adorable. And then, a few mintues later, Josiah needed his nose whiped again. "Jayce, will you go get me a tissue?" Gan Lu asked. Jayce nodded his head, turned on his heel and headed towards the shelf where the tissue box is kept. He stood on his toes, stretched out his arms, and reached for that box (which was still too far above his reach.) A nanny came to his rescue and handed him a tissue, which he then carried carefully to Gan Lu, who wiped Josiah's nose.

We wonder if Jayce knew how much responsibility would come from his new power to walk... Regardless, he sure doesn't seem to mind.

Our Flower Girl

2011-11-21T12:50:00.000+08:00

Mary. She's a precious little lamb with a whole lot of spunk. She likes to run off and explore (yes, she runs!) yet she also demands the security of having her foster mother nearby. She's a mama's girl, through and through. Maybe it's the dedicated "hair care" time they spend together as her foster mama does Mary's hair up in personality-loaded pigtails... or maybe it's the love of flowers that they share?

The pink and purple petunias grabbed these ladies attention as they climbed the steps to the foster home. "Look, Mary." her foster mom exclaimed, "look at the beautiful flowers! Smell them. Ahhh.... so fragrant." Ah Mary, you always have your nose in a flower.

Does anyone else notice the color coordinating going on here? It's pretty obvious that whatever the flower, Mary fits right in and is happily in her element.

As pretty as all those flowers are, it's quite apparent that Mary is the loveliest. Our flower-girl is the most beautiful flower of them all.

A Jiejie's Heart

2011-11-18T21:18:00.000+08:00

While walking through the villiage the other day, I ran into Emelia, Lucy and Micah's foster mom. She was driving them home from morning preschool, and of course Emelia insisted that they stop to say, "Hi." I had just purchased some little manderin oranges from a street vendor and offered one to Emelia.

At first her face brightened... but then it fell. "Thank you," she said, "but may I have two more?" A quick glance into the cart was all that was needed to understand the nature of her request.

"Of course, Emelia." I said, and handed her two more, which she immediatly handed to her little foster siblings. She has titled herself, "The Jiejie" (jiejie is "older sister" in Chinese) and we can see all the way into her sweet heart to know that this is true.

Keep on loving, Emelia!

Together At last

2011-11-17T17:33:00.000+08:00

Meet the newest morning preschool student: Cora. She turned three last week, but blew out her candles just yesterday. Scroll down for a super-cute video of that exciting moment.

Cora, only being a three-year-old, and a new one at that, didn't know quite what to think about her new class. The room was the same... the picture on the back of her chair was the same... Ah! But the kids were different, and playtime was much more classlike.

While Cora tried to figure out what was special about this class, someone else already had it figured. That someone was William.

He was as proud as punch to have his beautiful little sister, with her hair done up all pretty and wearing her new sweater, to show off to all of his classmates. She had to sit in his lap, and he made sure that she knew the motions to all of morning preschool's favorite songs. William's lookin' out for you, Cora.

And now, for that video...

Wordless Wednesday: Babies No More

2011-11-16T18:46:00.000+08:00

---

Have you begun your Christmas shopping yet? Are you feeling a little anxious about braving the crowds this year? What about shopping online, and helping NDFH in the process.

Follow the link - just click the above button, and submit that order. Or grab the button (on our righthand sidebar) and share it on your own blog! A percentage of your purchase will go to NDFH, helping fund lifesaving surgeries and making dreams come true.

Ambidextrous

2011-11-15T18:04:00.000+08:00

Anton is feeding himself nowadays, but sometimes his hands get a little bit tired. What does he do then? Switches hands, of course!

Anton graduated today from CCU to one of the downstairs bedrooms. He's doing well and we're so proud of our big boy!

Learning to Trust

2011-11-14T14:18:00.003+08:00

When Wendy arrived, the scars of abandonment were two months fresh on her tender, broken heart. There was a story no one wanted to hear in her deep, longing eyes. She wanted to be free, to laugh and to play, but trusting us with her heart was going to take a lot.

It was outside one afternoon when we saw a layer of fear slowly peel itself away from Wendy's sad contenance. The day before she refused to go down the slide, sitting at the top... scared, until someone carefully lifted her down. Today it seemed like it would be the same. But then it was discovered that, with each hand being held, one in mine and one in Myra's, she would cautiously slide down, a smile emerging as she reached the bottom. It helped that Lily was right next to her on the other slide, encouraging her as well. Wendy's joy grew as she went down again, and again, and again. Soon she was laughing.

Then Myra held one of her hands and I encouraged her to slide down. "No." she refused. Two hands or nothing, sliding down is a scary thing. We encouraged her that she could do it, Lily reached out to hold her empty hand, and I crouched down onto the slide, promising to catch her. She slid. She laughed.

We slid down that way over and over, then Myra let go of Wendy's hand and crouched down onto the slide herself. "Come on, Wendy," we called, "You can do it!" Then, with both hands free, Wendy slid into Myra's waiting, open arms.

Some call it progress, but we'd rather think of it as a miracle of love.

When You Can't Nap...

2011-11-13T20:10:00.000+08:00

Angela had been trying to take her nap, but it was just one of those days when a nap is totally the wrong thing. She was standing in her crib protesting loudly, so the nannies intervened (before she woke any roomates up).

The nannies took her out of her crib and gave her a chance for some quiet time alone with them. They were about to begin folding the day's load of laundry, and as you can see, they found something way better than a mattress and blanket for her to lounge in.

It took a while, but soon she began to cheer up, and even smile back at them. The last picture shows this just starting to happen.

Maybe you'll take a nap tomorrow afternoon, Angela?

For the Cookie!

2011-11-12T07:40:00.000+08:00

Standing up is hard work, Josiah will be happy to inform you. Alot of effort must be exerted, and often all that you get out of it is a tired body. We tell Josiah that after he can stand strong, he will be able to learn to walk, which will open up a whole new world to his curious eyes, but he's still not convinced. Thankfully, our therapists are smart, and know how to motivate Josiah to do his best. Cookies.

Hospital Mates

2011-11-11T09:38:00.001+08:00

Jonathan and Ella were both admitted into the hospital the other week with pneumonia. We went to visit them the other day, and it turns out that they have been lodged in the same little room. Just two beds, one for each of them with their nannies. It was a cozy little party and it seems that they are getting along fine. Ella's lungs still have quite a ways to go before she can come home, but Jonathan seems to be recovering well.

And they seem to be becoming good friends during this stay. When his nanny asked him to look at the camera for the picture, Jonathan misinterpreted what she said and gave Ella a kiss instead. What a charmer!

Ariana joined the little trip to the hospital. Her once-cleft palate is healing nicely and she's growing so happy and beautiful.

We returned home to find that Claire had been released from the hospital. She had pneumonia as well, but is doing much better. She was very happy to be home, as were all the nannies and children. "Claire's home!" they cheered.

We're so happy to have Claire home, and hope that Jonathan and Ella will join us soon. Come on, babies, get better quickly!

NDSouth: You Can't Keep A Good Man Down

2011-11-10T16:17:00.003+08:00

About a week and a half ago, we admitted Benjamin to the hospital for (what we thought would be) a pretty routine cleft surgery. Although we knew he also had a small problem with his little heart, the Docs found that the situation had gotten a bit worse since his last test.

Always the trouper*, little Ben packed his bags (well, with a bit of help from his nanny) and moved to the cardiac ward where he had heart surgery a few days later.

In a few hours, we will be welcoming Benjamin back to the foster home. As you can see below from earlier this week, this little fellow's spirit has been undaunted through it all. We've sorely missed this smile for these last ten days and can't wait to have him home!

* Trouper: A person who deals with and persists through difficulty or hardship without complaint (Merriam-Webster)

Wordless Wednesday: Peeping Through

2011-11-09T13:18:00.000+08:00

Vivian's Following

2011-11-08T15:19:00.002+08:00

You haven't seen her picture for a while, and Vivian's grown quite a bit.

Word has it that she's trying to walk, and can take some steps with support.

Her foster mother has informed us that she's the belle of the apartment and has a devoted following. People seem to think that she's pretty cute...

...we can see why.

And The Leaves Went Crunch...

2011-11-07T15:27:00.003+08:00

...and they crackled as a giggling group of children jumpt, lept and flew into the pile.

Can you hear his laughter?

Can you feel her joy?

Do you see her wonder?

Do you smell the autumn freshenss?

There are even more pictures in our scrapbook. Oh, what a glorious time we had!

Tiger At Large

2011-11-05T15:23:00.002+08:00

Look who was prowling about during our leaf jumping festivities.

Can you guess who?

And now please excuse us... we're going to go cuddle our sweet little tiger.

NDSouth: The Votes Are In, Asa Keeps His Hair!

2011-11-04T11:28:00.001+08:00

Although we suspect the results were heavily influenced by gender ;~) , the verdict is overwhelmingly in favor (75%) of Asa keeping his "do".

We'll revisit on his 3 month birthday, but for now, Asa's locks will continue their ascent..

很给力的！

Leaf Rakers for Hire!

2011-11-03T17:33:00.000+08:00

Alex, Serena and Hannah spent a good deal of time outside the other afternoon. An Autumn wind had just blown through, and the ground was covered in leaves. Wu Shifu (our gardener) enlisted the able three to assist him in cleaning up the backyard, and they were a lot of help.

Alex scooped up armfuls of leaves and put them into the cart. He was quick and efficient. And determined. He wanted to get this job done well.

Hannah made sure that the leaves stayed in the cart... and then she asked to get in and "splash" around. She didn't care quite so much about doing the job well, she was just having fun!

Serena decided that she was big enough to pedal the cart around the yard to the raker's next location. She was! It took her a little effort to climb up onto the bike's seat, but when she had successfully mounted it, her smile could not be beat. "Careful!" we reminded her. "I can do it myself!" She proudly announced.

The kids did a lot of hard work... but we highly doubt that they felt like they actually "worked," because it was so much fun!

Does anyone need some able bodied, happy smiling, leaf rakers? We're willing and ready to go!

---

P.S. Those who guessed Jabin in our Wordless Wednesday: Guess Who? were right!

Wordless Wednesday: Guess Who?

2011-11-02T14:47:00.000+08:00

Just Keep Dancing

2011-11-01T13:07:00.000+08:00

She's a preschool newbie, but Miss Brooke isn't shy about being herself in class... especially during song-time! She's got rhythm, stays on beat, and that joyful look on her face (and those precious cheeks!) are enough to inspire the most hesitant dancers.

Watch the video and dance along! (and don't forget to wave "hi" to Krisha when she tries to steal the spotlight)

Look Who's Home!

2011-10-31T21:44:00.000+08:00

Joseph arrived home from the hospital today. Take a minute and read his amazing story.

We can't wait to finally cuddle with this sweet little boy!

Bright and Orange

2011-10-31T13:37:00.001+08:00

Here at New Day, the morning preschool class learned a bit about Autumn: leaves changing colors and falling to the ground, the weather getting colder, and the abundance of pumpkins! The preschool teachers took this opportunity to show the children how to carve faces to make some pretty cool Jack-O-Lanterns. Gloria, our teacher, prepared the pumpkin before class, so the children didn't get a chance to see the pumpkin's innerds. But they did get to watch the eyes and mouth get cut out!

And then it came time to light the candle inside of the pumpkin! The children thought that this was exciting. Lucy didn't want to give up the pumpkin after her turn to get a close look.

Since Emelia is one of the "big girls" in class, she got to hold Mr. Jack-O-Lantern all by herself! She was quite proud of this fact and responsibility.

Silly Vincent tried to prove to us that he was sillier than the pumpkin... What do you think? Is he sillier?

We'd take a vote... but it's already clear who the winner would be. Right?

Did anyone else carve a pumpkin this year?

Matchy, Matchy

2011-10-30T20:53:00.000+08:00

Lena lives in the baby room, while Nicole spends her time in our CCU, so it came as a huge surprise when we discovered that they were wearing the same little jacket - on the same day!

It suited both of them perfectly, and they looked adorable. Lena has been much more alert recently, wiggling and gazing intently about. Before we know it she'll be a toddler... but let's not think of that right now. We're going to enjoy her teeny tiny babiness for as long as we can.

Someone knows how to smile for the camera! Nicole giggled and grinned wide when she saw that we were taking pictures of her. She gets told that she's beautiful all the time, so she makes sure to look pretty for pictures.

You've just got to love sweet little girls!

NDSouth: Your Vote Counts!

2011-10-28T17:08:00.004+08:00

Now that Asa is all of two months old, it is time for a big decision. The staff and nannies are split on this one, so we need your help..

Poll: Is it time to give Asa his first haircut? Yes or No?

(and no, getting his hair to lie down isn't an option.. we've tried!)

Their First Chapter

2011-10-28T03:07:00.001+08:00

New children arrived today.

Micah is two. He's a quiet little boy and still a bit wary of the new people in his life. He's been placed into a foster family already. That's his foster mom (also Emelia and Lucy's) holding him in the picture, with the foster family manager and his assistant standing around them. Micah's about to begin an adventure in Love.

Little Esther in only a few months old, and quite a bit too tiny for her age. She's beautiful, alert and talkative. She loves to play with fingers, those of hers and of others.

Micah and Esther are home for now, until they are adopted. The first chapter of their story has been penned. Today, their story of hope began.

Layers of Love (and clothing)

2011-10-27T14:04:00.000+08:00

'Tis the season to stay warm. It's already getting a bit nippy out there, but the nannies and foster parents are determined that their little ones will never feel a bit of it... even if that means oversized jackets and winter hats in October.

(Roy)

(Jonathan)

(Sage)

Caleb's foster mom lovingly dressed him in a large plaid flannel shirt yesterday. We couldn't even see his hands under the sleeves, but we're sure that he was toasty and cozy.

Keith had a cold today, so his foster mom picked him up early from preschool. If the puffy coat has anything to do with it, Keith should be in tip top shape soon!

Wordless Wednesday: Sweet Baby Mine

2011-10-26T14:46:00.000+08:00

Celebrating the Firsts: Rosie Feeds Herself

2011-10-25T13:37:00.000+08:00

Ecstatic.

No other word properly expresses the quantity and quality of joy that we have right now.

For the first time in her life Rosie fed herself. It was only a few pieces of cracker... but it was enough to have us clapping and cheering.

At snack time, Rosie usually folds her hands carefully and politly into her lap. Today she used them to pick up pieces of cracker, put them into her mouth and then ate.

We're so proud of you, sweet girl.

Turns for Three

2011-10-24T16:43:00.001+08:00

Each morning, at the start of preschool, the children mark the day on our fun, magnetic calendar. And each morning, one child gets to take a turn placing a number onto the blank day, but on Monday three children get to help! This morning, Lucy Kate was the first one to shout out the day, so she got to place the "22" on Saturday.

Lena was pleased to be chosen to put the "23" on Sunday...

and Timothy concentrated as he put the "24" on Monday.

The kids love to ~~belt out~~ sing the "days of the week" song. "Sunday Monday, Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday!" they sing at the top of their lungs. The morning preschool students have quite a bit of English under their belts - they know months, seasons, days and much more.

Next, the kids had to remember what month it was. How do you say it in English? Jabin got this one right with his perfectly pronounced, "October!"

Have a happy Monday!

In A Morning...

2011-10-21T18:10:00.001+08:00

...Nicole and Ella enjoyed their bottles,

Rebecca practiced smiling,

...and Landon had a great time in therapy. What a good morning!

NDSouth: Vaccination Day!

2011-10-20T08:16:00.001+08:00

Usually these trips are for one or two children, but this time, the schedule was such that all of the children were due for vaccinations!

Some were brave, some were not, some blew it off, some were unhappy for quite a while, but by the time we returned, all were doing well and very glad to be home!

in the waiting room after the deed was done

Wordless Wednesday: Rebecca and Josiah

2011-10-19T17:19:00.000+08:00

Transformation Tuesday: Evie

2011-10-18T14:29:00.025+08:00

The funny thing about Evie is...

...that she hasn't really changed!

She still has that fair, smooth skin. Her hair is still sunshine and her attitude gentle and sweet. But her heart, beginning the day she came until now, has gone through beautiful changes. Evie had a serious heart condition; when she arrived she was so weak that even the smallest toys were too heavy for her. Now she is a strong and healthy girl. When Evie first came she didn't know how to be held, how to be loved, but now she does. She is blossoming within her loving foster family. Can you see the difference in her eyes? That's what love did for Evie!

In Memory of Carissa

2011-10-18T04:04:00.000+08:00

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day…”

2 Timothy 4:7-8a

Friday, October 14^th at noon, Carissa ended her earthly battle and entered into heavenly rest. We’re so sad that she’s gone, but we rejoice that she is now at peace. For Carissa – beautiful, sweet and gentle Carissa, there will be no more pain. There will be no more tears, no more struggling to breathe… Carissa is whole and healthy now.

Her story kept getting more and more amazing. Her life proved again and again that love was bigger than hopelessness, and miracles more effective than the knowledge of doctors. When it seemed like there was nothing more that we could do, Carissa got better. When the doctors were out of options, Carissa grew strong. And then, after she had shown us time and time again that God is the Greatest Physician, Carissa went on to receive her crown. She fought. There was not a minute of a day that Carissa did not fight for her life. Her physical heart was so broken that all we could do was love her, love her dangerously, and that love has changed us.

We grieve our loss, because we loved her. Every time she looked into our eyes… every time she smiled… every time her eyes closed in sleepiness… there were miracles in those moments. And we’re so blessed to have shared those moments with Carissa.

Her last moments were spent in the arms of those who loved her. She died peacefully, and though our hearts are broken, her's is now healed.

Pre-K's Unexpected Star Student

2011-10-17T01:03:00.003+08:00

Claire has been one of the Foster Home’s token miracle children, and if you haven’t heard much of her story, I encourage you to read up on the miracles that have already happened in her life (check out her story). Because of her medical needs, Claire spent a good portion of her two years at New Day in the hospital getting necessary surgeries and bringing her into better health.

Since she left the hospital for the last time, Claire has been doing incredibly well. She was placed in the Pre-K Transition class because she is a little older and in need of some remedial work to catch her up. At first, Claire was one of the students who needed more help and had more trouble staying on task. However, since she joined the Pre-K class a few months ago, she has made so many improvements.

The class has recently been working on counting, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and other Pre-K skills all in the context of a letter of the week. All the students have been showing improvement in the class and they are learning a lot. Claire, however, is not one that we expected to necessarily grasp everything the first time.

But here is where Claire exceeds our expectations again. To our delight, Claire has really latched onto the ABCs, rising as a star student! She points out letters on signs, in movies, on t-shirts, and in books! I have seen a growing confidence in her abilities, even in her quiet, shy voice becoming more pronounced as she answers teachers’ questions in school. She takes pride in her work and enjoys learning. It seems clear that the miracles that restored Claire’s body were not the only ones to be done in her life.

--This post was written by Faith

The Strollers Are Here!

2011-10-16T15:28:00.000+08:00

It's been months since you all blew us away and ordered strollers to be shipped too us, but because of some customs issues, they didn't arrive until this week. And let us tell you, there was dancing in the streets when they arrived!

We were so excited that we had to take a group picture. The children thought that it was great to get to sit on the boxes...

...until Philip started falling through one! That sure got everybody (Philip especially) laughing.

Then, of course, we just had to go on a walk to test them out.

We want to thank everybody so much for all that they have done to get these strollers to us. They were very needed and will be used quite often.

Thanks for keeping us rolling!