Sinclair enjoyed her first 4th of July! We relaxed most of the day, trying to let her get as much of a nap in as possible so she could stay up late for the fireworks. Every year, we go to a huge fireworks display in Veterans Park. This year we met some friends from church there and reserved our spots on the lawn. We brought KFC and some fruit for dinner and hung out with the crowds. There is always a band playing on stage and booths to play and eat at. Brevin was in Tennessee visiting Matt's dad for the holiday, but nevertheless we all had our own flag tee in different colors to wear for the occasion. Sinclair ran around with the other toddlers, chasing bubbles, etc. We always see a lot of people we know from the community and so it's a great time even while we are all waiting for sundown. Sinclair absolutely loved the fireworks! She oohed and ahhed and clapped and jumped up and down. It was so cute. She really is getting very expressive and animated. She had a blast!
Our Adoption Timeline:
Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged by the size of the task, for the Lord God, My God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you...." (II. Chronicles 28:8b)
6/18/2005 Submitted application to America World
6/23/2005 Application accepted/paperchase begins
7/26/2005 Doctor's exams for adoption
8/9/2005 FBI fingerprints for home study
8/20/2005 Acquired copies of marriage license, birth certificates and completed first aid and CPR
8/25/2005 International adoption classes completed
8/30/2005 Police clearance and ordered passports
10/10/2005 Home study completed and approved
10/22/2005 Fingerprinted by USCIS
12/9/2005 I-171H approval from USCIS
12/14/2005 Dossier certified in Sacramento
12/20/2005 Dossier authenticated at Chinese Consulate
1/9/2005 DTC!
1/25/2006 LID!
2/10/2007 Renewed USCIS fingerprints
5/10/2007 Home study update completed
5/31/2007 I-171H renewed by USCIS
6/2007 Began travel shots
6/5/2008 Renewed USCIS fingerprints again
6/30/2008 Completed travel shots
7/7/2008 DOR!!
7/8/2008 LOA
8/1/2008 TA
8/27/2008 Leave for China
9/1/2008 Gotcha!
9/2/2008 Adoption Day
9/10/2008 Home!