Elizabeth, we love you and you will be in our arms very soon! We can't wait. John is so excited to have a little sister. He has written a letter to you and wants Mommy to bring it to China so you can open it there. Love, Mommy, Daddy, and Big Brother John David
We are so happy for you all. What a wonderful family Lizzy-Beth has waiting for her. What an awesome God to bless us with such beautiful blessings. We pray for journeying mercies and health and grace in your trip to and from China. May you feel His presence in this most awesome of events in your life. We love you and are praying for you. David, Shelley & Aly
John David, Aunt Greenie can't sleep tonight! I am praying for all of you and wish I could be there to give you a HUGE hug before you go on your vacation to Aunt Gail's and Uncle Jerry's. You will have so much fun there while you're waiting for your sister to come home! Elizabeth will have the BEST BIG BROTHER ever! God has chosen you out of all the big boys in the world to be her favorite! I LOVE YOU! Mommy and Daddy: "For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Is. 55:12....Can't believe she's ready to come home! You were prepared for this day by an awesome God and HE chose the perfect parents for Elizabeth! Elizabeth: Aunt Greenie loves you and can't wait to see you and hold you!
Dave and Susan, this is the most precious adoption site I have ever had the good fortune to see. Susan, you have a way with words that is beyond description. Dave, you aren't too shabby yourself with that Mother's Day note from Elizabeth. I have a calendar reminder each day while you’re gone to look for changes as soon as I get to work. That will be my early morning ritual until I can see Elizabeth’s sweet face in person. John will make a GREAT big brother. I can tell by the way he is around Jada. You guys are blessed and Elizabeth is blessed to have you. Richard
Dave, Susan and John David, This precious little girl who is waiting for you in China has no idea how sweetly her Lord has smiled on her. He has given her an amazing mom, dad and big brother who will love her forever. I am so happy for you and my, how God has smiled on you three as well. Elizabeth is an angel. Dave and Susan, I know you are so aware of how very blessed you are with both of your beautiful children. I know God will carry you on angel's wings to your precious Elizabeth and know we will be praying for you the entire step of the way. This website is absolutely beautiful and Dave.......that letter made me cry. The talent you have in capturing an image is inspirational to my heart. Susan, your words always melt my heart. What a great couple you two make in the ability to bring such emotion and I feel so blessed with your friendship. I can't wait to see your daughter in your arms !!! I am so happy for you ! Much love, Angie
Susan and David, Was it two summers ago when I first met you streetside in front of my house? We were strangers then. Never realizing the paths that our lives would take. I've always felt that everything that happens is predestined. It happens for reasons we can never imagine. I am so lucky I was outside that day and that you stopped and asked me if those "girls" were mine. I wish you the most wonderful trip to get Elizabeth. You can't begin to know now but your heart will forever be changed by what you see in China. When asked by the people I met there last month why I have THREE daughters from China, I tell them...we are all family now. My girls and the people of China. My heart is there and soon yours will be too! Congratulations and I can't wait to see you when you return. Oh yeah.....great website! Love, Terri
Susan, David and John David, I can't tell you how happy I am for you all! My heart is so full of thoughts and prayers for your family as you start this amazing journey to begin a life with your new daughter and sister, Elizabeth. God is so awesome and his handiwork so clear in all of this. I can't help but feel his love for all of us when I think that the day Uncle Doug went home to Jesus was the same day that this precious little girl came in to the world. I love you all very much and can't wait to see the new addition to the family. Enjoy your time in China and we will pray for a speedy and safe return! Much Love, Emily & Jason
We are also adopting from China and noticed your site today. It is beautiful. We are still paperchsing so it gives us great joy to read stories like yours to hold us thru this long wait. We noticed you are in the Tri Cities area, we are in Chattanooga. Again you have documented your journey so beautifully. Have a great trip. Emily and Mel paperchasing #1
Dave and Susan, Your web-site is great! My husband Mike and I are in the very first stages of adopting our own China Angel. I can only dream at this point of what you must be feeling! We will pray for you and your wonderful journey to Elizabeth! Hope to see you at one of the meetings! Also, She is so cute in they referal pics that we can only imagine how great she will look in Dave's photos! Have a blessed trip!! Christy Rogers
Dave & Susan, God is sooo good to us - so much more than we deserve!! I love your confirmation story of Elizabeth and she is truly a gift from God! This sight is beautiful! I'll be praying for your journey to your beautiful angel! Have a wonderful trip and I can't wait to meet your sweet baby girl! In Christ's Love, Kara Murray (Leah's mom)
This is the most beautiful website!! I am so happy for you all! I can't wait to see John with his little sister - he is so precious! Blessings for a wonderful journey to Elizabeth this week ~ I'm thankful with you for your beautiful gift from God!!
Susan, Dave, and John David.....May God be with you on this wonderful journey you are about to embark upon!! Dave...the letter was absolutely beautiful! Love to you... Bridget
Beautiful site, gorgeous, insightful photography. We are Grant & Janelle Wise and look forward to meeting you in China (TG 851). We wish you safe travel & much happiness. Congratulations! See you soon...
Hello, this is Michael and Starla, we met you at the Harvest Moon Festival (we were the new people that are also using CCAI). We truly wish you the best of luck on your trip and can't wait for you to get Elizabeth. She is SOO adorable!!!
Wes and I are so happy for your family! She is so precious!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We love you very much and hope to see you all soon. Love in Christ, Miss Tiffie and Wes Sands
Praying for you. Keep on truckin (pardon me flying!) We love you! Dave and Verna
Love your website! Especially love the exquisite photography of David's! Absolutely beautiful! I wish we lived nearby and could schedule an appointment! We traveled through Living Hope in Aug of 1998. Our daughter is from Jiangxi, Nanchang. She just turned 8 in Sept and is the complete joy of our lives. We are from PA but my family lives in BlountvIlle, TN, and we've been to Kinsport many, many times. We wish you well as you await the arrival of your sweet daughter! God is good! Joyce, Kurt and Jolie Wei Berner
Susan and David, You do not know me or my family. We too are waiting on our referral from America World. I saw your post on the yahoo group for your site and jumped on. It is GORGEOUS! The story of you Dad's passing being the same day your Elizabeth was born was astounding! I love that the Lord shows us his face time and time again! I wish you many blessings and a wonderful journey to your absolutely beautiful baby girl! Many Prayers from San Antonio, Texas Cristie and Doug Martine Canyon (5), Dakota (3 .. girl) and soon Maliah Jade!
What a beautiful site!
Hello! I found your website today, it is beautiful!! I am thrilled to be able to follow your trip to China. My husband and I hope to start the paperchase after the new year. We are currently in the process of selecting an agency. Wishing you the best of luck in China and I look forward to seeing your amazing journey. Shannon Marblehead, MA
Susan and Dave, We pray that you continue to have safe travels to China! Make sure to eat plenty of that "wonderful" airplane food! Take care and God bless! The Brides Sean, Angela, Ashton, Kieron all waiting on Reagan
I was forwarded your website by Pam Hickman, who is also in the process of adopting a daughter from China with her husband Jerry. I think your site is beautifully put together. It is very appealing. I too, am in awe of a God who brings things together so completely. I can't help but get shivers that your daughter was born on the day of your father's death. How so like God! My oldest son was born exactly 14 days prior to the anniversary of my father's death, and I thanked him so much, that I felt like rejoicing on that date, rather than grieving. I look forward to following your journey these next few weeks. Thank you for sharing your experience so openly. Angie Roberts
We love your site, and thank you for sharing it with other adoptive families. We wish your family much joy as you receive Elizabeth! We are waiting to go get our little Emma, and we appreciate the encouragement of following your journey. Many blessings! Chris and Julie
I just had a thought... you will be arriving home with your precious daughter 7 days before the anniversary of your father's death, and her birth. (Isn't 7 the number of God?) Joy to you... Angie Roberts
Wow - what a beautiful website! The link to the photography site was amazing - spent time looking at all the pictures there too! Hope you journey is as amazing as ours was! I'm sure it will be! Congratulations on your new daughter! Blessings, Lisa www.myadoptionwebsite.com/elizabeth
Love your site. Elizabeth is beautiful. Can't wait to follow your journey. Thank you for sharing. Donna
The baby is precious!! She is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Keep us up to date on anything you need and keep in touch!! Love, The Whole Wolcson Family
I just found the link to your website on the yahoo group. Our family is in the waiting phase for our baby Jane (LID Aug 17) and being able to watch other people's journeys to their new children is so exciting. Thank you for sharing and we wish you all the best for your upcoming trip and congratulations! Your baby Elizabeth is beautiful. Sincerely, Bridget Morningstar
praying and waiting -----our love awaits to have Elizabeth in the family. My God grant you health and favor in all the process. Love, Aunt Sue and Uncle Wayne
Dave and Susan, I am so happy and upset! I have been traveling on business these past two weeks and I missed our angel meeting and I missed your departure!!!! However...I am so happy for you guys I can hardly stand it!!! This web pages is AWESOME!!!! I have already read your first entry on your departure! I just can't believe you both are gone....it seems like we were just talking about her picture yesterday...now you are both on a plane to meet your wonderful angel!!!! I don't do this a lot...but I am going to type a prayer for you and your family... Dear God, Please take your hands and hold the Clapp family close as they travel abroad to meet their little china angel and make thier family complete. This family is filled with your grace and are so deserving of your love and gift of this precious little one, Elizabeth. Please wrap little Elizabeth around your heart while she waits for her new family...give her peace and love so that not a minute more will she live feeling alone. Give them strength and patience on this journey so that all their energy can be focused on this beautiful event...and please bring them home safely...we miss them already and let them know that at home....we are waiting to see and share in their joy! God we thank you for this gift and all of your blessings...forever and ever...Amen. Enjoy the journey...every single second of it!!! We love you guys...be safe...and we are waiting for your return!!! Linda and Bruce Williams
Dave and Susan, I am so happy and upset! I have been traveling on business these past two weeks and I missed our angel meeting and I missed your departure!!!! However...I am so happy for you guys I can hardly stand it!!! This web pages is AWESOME!!!! I have already read your first entry on your departure! I just can't believe you both are gone....it seems like we were just talking about her picture yesterday...now you are both on a plane to meet your wonderful angel!!!! I don't do this a lot...but I am going to type a prayer for you and your family... Dear God, Please take your hands and hold the Clapp family close as they travel abroad to meet their little china angel and make thier family complete. This family is filled with your grace and are so deserving of your love and gift of this precious little one, Elizabeth. Please wrap little Elizabeth around your heart while she waits for her new family...give her peace and love so that not a minute more will she live feeling alone. Give them strength and patience on this journey so that all their energy can be focused on this beautiful event...and please bring them home safely...we miss them already and let them know that at home....we are waiting to see and share in their joy! God we thank you for this gift and all of your blessings...forever and ever...Amen. Enjoy the journey...every single second of it!!! We love you guys...be safe...and we are waiting for your return!!! Linda and Bruce Williams
I have chills reading about the beginning of your trip. You are embarking on such an amazing journey! Really, really focus on every minute because it will be over before you know it. Kristi Tolman Mom to twin China babies 7/21/05 - gotcha day www.tolmanstuff.com
Dear David and Susan, I just finished reading your website on your journey thus far awaiting your little Elizabeth.....WOW! We serve such an awesome GOD! We are soooo excited for you all. Please know you guys are being lifted up in prayer. Can't wait to hear more about your journey. Lots of LOVE, Amy,Chad,Luke,& Joshua Thompson
God bless you Angela and Shaun Andy
Congratulations Clapp family! I am so happy for you. I just checked you itenery and am praying for your safe travel today. You are both Blessed and Highly Favored of God. I am expecting good news on October 25th. Blessings to Your Family from Ours, Jeff & Karis Daniels
hello wherever you are....can't sleep so up and thinking of you and praying for each...hope you endure the 16 hour MRI ....love keeping up with the "journey"....love, auntie
Elizabeth is beautiful. What a wonderful gift from God!! We live in Charlotte, NC. Actually, we have a Fort Mill SC address but we are closer to Charlotte than Fort Mill. We are waiting for Samantha, LID 6/27/05. We will travel with the Lanes, Richard and Shelia. Congratulations! We can't wait to be in your shoes. Greg and Jennifer Smith
David and Susan, I am so excited to hear you are off on your adventure! Thank you for sending me a card to show me your web site. God bless you and Elizabeth and Joh David! I pray that your trip be smooth, your daughter be blessed and that God would make His presence known all along the way as He has to date in this process. Sincerely, We are.............on The WAY! (John 14:6)
Your Referral day notes were so touching to read. Our God is such an amazing God! Just think of the welcoming celebration He had on that day, in November, when He welcomed not only your precious daughter into this world, but your father into His heavenly home, that God Himself had prepared for him. I am praying for your safe and joyous union with your daughter and return to your home. I wish I could be there to personally welcome you all at the airport, but know that I will be there in the spirit of God that is with you, always. In His Love~ May Velazquez (Phoenix, AZ; daughter: Julia Jian, from Jiangsu, China on December 2, 2003)
We were elated with your announcement. Elizabeth is just beautiful and we know that big brother John is so proud of her. Thank you all so much for letting us be a part of this wonderful time of your lives. May much love and happiness follow you all. She is a lucky little girl to be a part of your special family. May God bless you all. We love you Dave & Cindy Harris
Hello, I'm Janelle Wise's mother - Janelle and Grant are (I believe) traveling companions of yours, waiting to meet their Chloe. Blessings as you meet your lovely Elizabeth. Edith Graybill
Susan and David, We are in awe of Our Great and Loving God.You are being prayed for everyday all over this world.All your hard work is proof of the love you have for this precious little girl.Things are good here. your Mom says John David is great today. Love you so much.El and Dee
All day yesterday I was praying for the two of you!!! Enjoy Hong Kong and get lots of rest. Who knows how much rest you will get once Elizabeth joins your life. Can you believe it... you are in her birth country! Soon you will be holding her in your arms, never to let her go. You can count the time until that moment in hours now instead of years, months, weeks ......... We love you both. Barb
Your web site is awsome. Good luck on your trip to china to pick up your beautiful girl. She is so blessed, and I know she will bring you many more blessings.
Susan and David, We are following your journey and you all are capturing it so well. Love the pictures of your accomodations and of the city. Thinking of you and counting down the minutes til you have you precious daughter in your arms. Emily and Mel
HEY GUYS, Looks like your travels are going great--YOOO HOOO! We enjoy seeing images and knowing what's transpiring with you guys. It doesn't get any more exciting than this. Be careful with brushing your teeth and HAVE SOME FUN with those glass walls-HA. All is well here - just the usual. ------------ THE OFFICE GIRLS
What a wonderful and touching site. You are in our prayers as you bring your daughter home. We have a daughter waiting for us and hope to travel in January. Have a wonderful trip. Don and Joanie Thomas
Susan and Dave, I am SOOOOOO happy for you! Elizabeth is a beautiful girl. Enjoy China and finally meeting your little girl. Thank you for sharing your journey and I'll see you all at the airport.
Dear Mommy and Daddy, I am going to have a lollipop after my lunch. I miss you and love you. I am going to make a beanbag with aunt Gail. Love, John
Congratulations to you both! May your world be filled with the laughter and love only a child brings. To David~watch that little finger of Elizabeth's.....it's bigger and can hold more than you can imagine. Sincerely~ Angel Harris and family
Dear John, Mommy and Daddy were so excited to see pictures of you at Aunt Gail's! Thank you for sending them to us all the way across the world! It looks like you are having a FUN time! We miss you very much but will be home soon with your new baby sister! Please give Aunt Gail and Uncle Jerry a BIG hug for us. Also, please ask Uncle Jerry if Va. Tech won the football game?? We love you 10,000 bushels!! Mommy and Daddy
Just think only 5 more days, the excitement is building back here is Kingsport.We absolutely love following the day to day journey. Love and miss you.El and Dee
Hello Dave & Susan- enjoying your stories and pictures, I almost feel like I am in the market place with you ! Watching and seeing this beautiful storey unfold is truly amazing! Looking forward to November 7th! Make a joyful noise unto the Lord! Love u guys--Cheryl
I love you all very much, and I am very excited for you. I can’t wait to see Elizabeth, my new niece. What a wonder family she has waiting for her. She is so Adorable and Beautiful! I love the website; it is very exciting to be able to follow you on your long journey to get Elizabeth. The story of your Dad’s passing the same day she was born was astounding! What an AWESOME WONDERFUL GOD we have. And the Letter Dave wrote…very moving. You are all very blessed by God. Elizabeth is going to have wonderful parents and of course a wonderful big brother to take care of her. My prayers are with you all for a safe trip back. Along with other friends of mine whom you don’t know that are praying for you, and moved by your story. By the way…Love the glass-walled bathroom! HA! Love you all…be safe and I will see you as soon as I can. Mike Fisher
I have so enjoyed reading everyone's thoughts and prayers for your family and am now, myself, waiting anxiously for your return!! I passed this website on to several people that I work with, many of whom are now watching and waiting also. Again, I am just overwhelmed with how God said that he knows us from the second we are concieved. To know that God has known Elizabeth from the second she was concieved, that he knew the Chinese man that would find her, that he knew the adoption agency that she would placed under, that he knew that in this world of over 6 BILLION people - she would have you two as parents and John David for a brother just blows me away! When faced with these certainties - how can one doubt God's love and faithfulness?? WOW - You two just make my day! Lets just give a big high five to God! Hurry up and bring this gal home! I can't wait to be sitting in Aunt Sue's living room after eating Thanksgiving dinner, hearing all the Scott cousins in the basement playing ping-pong, watching John David and little Taylor playing on the floor, seeing dad and Uncle Wayne dressed up (not as hobo Santas since it is not yet Christmas - but rather, in the spirit of Thanksgiving fun, as deralic (sp?) turkeys or perhaps Pilgrims singing holiday tunes!!), and most of all seeing, with a tremendous feeling of happiness, my newest cousin Elizabeth snuggled up - safe in your arms! I hope you can feel the bear hug that I am trusting the world-wide-web to carry across the globe! I love yall! Emily
My precious Darlings, I am praying for you each step of your journey,can't wait until you are home with our dear Elizabeth.All is well here,miss you terribly. John did great,but I miss him so much.Hurry home!!! Much love,thoughts and prayers. Mom (aka Maw Maw)
Blessed be.
Dear David and Susan, What a joy to receive your announcement! We are faithfully following your trip to China and continue to pray for you both and your precious little Elizabeth. The Lord is so good! Our love and prayers, Jack, Patty, Hannah, Caleb, Joshua, and Sarah
Dear David and Susan, What a joy to receive your announcement! We are faithfully following your trip to China and continue to pray for you both and your precious little Elizabeth. The Lord is so good! Our love and prayers, Jack, Patty, Hannah, Caleb, Joshua, and Sarah
Dearnjbvgfhjbkhiyuutrrrqvmbnm jhkbjhhbfhhjhhkiuoipbbbjjhhhhkkkkk;jjhhh Dear Mommy and Daddy, I love you so much. I care about you so much. Love, John (transcribed by Aunt Gail)
susan and david, just today john checked the website to see the status of your journey to elizabeth. how excited we are to learn you are traveling now and keeping us posted along your way! we enjoyed a visit from our jennifer and little brooke, along with our keith, in kingsport last weekend. other than a 7 hour drive from charleston for jenn and brooke because of brooke's first ever episode of vomiting and fever, it was a delightful time together. (there were lots of helping hands here when they arrived!) it will take jenn a while to forget that journey!! we are constantly reminded of God's precious and priceless gift of adoption to our family and will never take it lightly or for granted. we will pray for you along your way, with thanksgiving for God allowing our paths to cross. susan, we hope you heal quickly and that dave does not catch it as well. with love and caring, carolyn and john mccoy
Dave and Sue, We've never met, but I too am a member of the Jan/Feb dtc group through CCAI. Unfortunately, our adoption was cancelled, but due to the close bonds that were formed on the site, I've followed the journeys of 3 other couples- it's been amazing and I wanted to tell you your site is beautiful, and Elizabeth is so precious. I will remember you in my prayers along with all of those traveling to bring their children home. May Elizabeth come to you gently, and warm up to you quickly, and trust you enough to cry and scream if she needs to! All the best, Kristen Borde (Kris)
I am very much enjoying your journey. I sent ALL of my paperwork to Living Hope last week. So, hopefully in a little less than a year, I will be where you are! Wishing you luck on your journey and great happiness as you hold Elizabeth. Lynn (LNiel66@aol.com)
Susan & Dave- I hope you are feeling better. Thank you so much for allowing us to follow your journey through this website. We can't wait to meet Elizabeth -- maybe at Thanksgiving! Just a few more days before you meet her. How exciting! Many thoughts, prayers and much love - Jeff & Sabrina (Saturday, October 22, 2005 9:00 pm ET) shkirk1@bellsouth.net
message from maw maw: faithfully interceding and missing my precious loved ones. Aunt Sue read me some of the comments and it was so encouraging and heart warming. I love you so dearly and am so looking forward to holding my new granddaughter and having my John David back with me. Please take care of yourself, Susan, and don't over-do.....(Aunt Sue is trying to convince me that I need a computer)...until then I'll dictate messages and await the joy of your arrival back home. All my love, Mom-Maw Maw
Dear Dave , Susan, John and Elizabeth, It is hard to believe that we have known each other for only two years. We met you when we chose Dave as our wedding photographer. Even as we were planning our wedding we were planning the adoption of Claire. We chose Dave as our photographer because we loved his personality and his work is without a doubt the best we had ever seen. Who would have thought that two years later we would be celebrating chinese adoption together. You guys are such wonderful people and John and Elizabeth are so richly blessed. We could not pick better parents for any child! It would be impossible to watch this whole process and not realize that God had a plan for our friendship when we entered your studio in 2003. He knew that someday two angels named Elizabeth and Claire would have a common bond and friendship here in the USA. God stayed with them every minute and as your homepage says, he had a plan for their future. Sweet Baby Elizabeth, We love you and your family dearly! The Messerschmidts
David and Susan We are so glad everthing is going well. We are enjoying seeing all the pictures. It brings back alot of wonderful memories. Just a few more days til you will have little Elizabeth in your arms. Take care. Sending prayers and love from Tennessee!!!! The Laughlin Family
Dave and Susan, the day that you will finally hold Elizabeth in your arms is almost here! We have been blessed to follow this journey along with you and we absolutely cannot wait until your precious angel is in your arms! John David, we look forward to seeing you play with your new little sister across the street - you'll have to teach her to jump on your trampoline really soon! God bless this new addition to your hearts and lives! Love, Joel, Donna & Eliza p.s. We remember how we were very faithful to post pictures and updates BEFORE we got Eliza! Somehow priorities change after you get that baby!! But we anxiously await seeing the photos of your union with your baby and the "getting to know you" days!
Hey Guys, Wow what a site..We have been following it daily. What an amazing journey you are on from start to finish!! Can't wait to see your precious bundle! God Bless while you are traveling! Love ya , The Bruce Family
YEAH>>>>>TOMORROW IS THE BIG DAY!!! We are reading your journey every day and I have passed your website on to several others. Thanks for your great posts and photos. See ya'll SOON! Brittany Robinson
Susan & Dave, We are so happy for your family. Can't wait to see Elizabeth. Praying your journey to bring Elizabeth home is a safe and happy one. John David will be a wonderful big brother! Can't wait to see you all! Love and prayers, Brigette, Butch & Abby
Congrats on the new addition. My wife and I love your web site and the Some Babies Come By Plane. We are from Dothan Al and our LID was June 13th 2005. Still waiting for referral day. May God truly bless your family and Elizabeth. Sincerely Dan and Debbie waiting on Rebekah Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth, You are a precious angel and a prayer answered. I haven't met you, and yet I love you so much already. You are and will continue to be such a blessing to our family through all the joy and love that you will bring to us. God bless you,love you, and hold you close, Cousin Scarlet
Susan and Dave, thanks so much for allowing us to follow on your wonderful journey to Elizabeth. What s truly awesome God we serve!! Take care and hope to see you soon. Miss Peep-pie
sooo glad for Cipro.... know how excited you must be but hope you can rest tonight...waiting for tomorrow's update. we love you...auntie
OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't stand it!!!!! Only one more night without her!!! How will you sleep tonight...I do not know! Ok....I am just so excited...and I can't tell you how much I appreciate you keeping us informed every step of the way!!! WE ARE ALL THERE WITH YOU!!!! Sleep tight...dream well...wake up to one of the most defining and beautiful moments of your life!!! MISS YOU GUYS! ~Linda PS...the "Waldo" picture is crack'in me up! :-)
Sweet Elizabeth Lihan! You are dearly loved by your new parents and it has been a joy to follow their journey as they bring you to a new home in the United States! We look forward to meeting you as your parents introduce you to your new extended family!! We were excited that you have been named Elizabeth. Our daughter is Christen Elizabeth and she enjoys knowing that the name Elizabeth means "consecrated to God"!! It is our prayer that you will one day accept God and His Son, Jesus Christ, as your beloved Lord and Savior! May you know, without a doubt, that the Lord's hand has been upon your precious life!!! We look forward to meeting you with great anticipation!! joyfully, Larry, Melinda, Christy and Daniel Clapp
Love your website, especially the some babies come by plane! Our oldest son's name is John and our 1st daughter is Hayley Elizabeth. We have two adopted children from China...all blessings from God! God Bless you and your family! Blessings, Kim Thurman,dh Roddie<>< Alabama parents to John 15, Hayley 11 , James 7-cleft affected and adopted 3/04 from Anhui province China,Sara Grace 4 VSD adopted 10/02 Hubei province China
Praise God. Your website has touched my heart in this, my time of waiting for our little daughter Sophia Hope. Thank you for inviting us to share your journey. In His Peace, Kelly
Wes and I are so happy to hear that this special day for you is only hours away. We have been praying for your safety, health, and spirit. We hope that we could come up some time over winter break and see your precious treasure, for that is truly what she is. Sue, you will make a wonderful mother. I know this to be true not only seeing you interact with John, but in the way that you supported me and helped me grow while I was the upstairs resident in your home. Dave too will make a wonderful tea partner and doll house builder! HEhe! We are so exstatic for your family. Amanda my cousin had her baby today, so this will make two new members that we will have to met. We will continue to pray for you all as well as Elizabeth. We pray that she will be healthy, adjust well, that God will touch her with his love throughout all the days of her life. I wished we lived closer to you all, so that she too could know Miss Tiffie. But I know God has a special plan for us all. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. We are so excited for you all!!!!! Miss Tiffie and Mister Wes
What an awesome website. As I wait for my own trip to Hubei Province in about 3months to bring home my boy, your beautiful website just brought him a little bit closer to me. I'll sure be back tomorrow to see photos of your sweet Elizabeth. God bless you all. Donna Ewy
Susan adn Dave, Chills have swept over my body as I read your email on the day before getting Elizabeth. I, too, feel the sadness of her foster family as they have gotten attached to her for a year, but I am sure they also feel joy knowing what love she is about to experience coming into your family. I am so glad you feel better to truely enjoy this experience, even if part of it may be a blur because of the excitement, chaos, hustle, etc...but we know you have it all well documented with photos!!haha Good luck tomorrow, and can't wait to read your next email when you get her!!! Love you guys, Susan, Cliff, and kids
You have created a wonderful website! We travelled to China in March 2005 to bring home our daughter, Carly Chaoyuan. I am always thrilled to read of another precious child finding their forever family. Thank you for sharing your story. It brings me tears of joy! Can't wait to hear about "gotcha" day. Best of luck to you and your family and praying for a smooth transition for all of you. God bless, Michele Travis Charlotte, NC www.caringbridge.org/nc/travis
I am so excited you and have enjoy following your trip. God bless you all. Beverly Cox
Dear Elizabeth, You are such a beautiful little girl and I wish you such a blessed life with your new family. I also have a daughter from China and she is the absolute joy of our lives. God bless you and your family The Kings, Beaufort, South Carolina http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenking
Your Elizabeth is so beautiful...I'm so happy for you all! Thank you for allowing all of us to share this exciting time with you!! Blessings for a safe trip home, a good rest when you get here and a wonderful future...we can't wait to see John with his little sister!!
How easy it is to see the Master's Hand in this beautiful journey to Elizabeth!! She could not be any more perfect!! What a glorious miracle for both Elizabeth and for the entire family. It is undeniable that she is the one intended for David, Susan and John to have the honor and privilege of loving her as their daughter and sister. When you hear "She's a lucky baby", you will know in the deepest part of your heart, that you are ones more blessed than words can ever tell. I love you all and couldn't be happier for you. Thanks so much for allowing us to share in your joy!! Sheila Lane
Dave and Susan, Elizabeth is so beautiful it has been such a joy to follow along with you on your journey. I am so happy for you all! I can’t wait to see her in person. Susan I am so glad that you are felling better. John is going to Love his little sister. Love, Mike (Uncle Mike)
Dave and Susan, I am sitting here with tears in my eyes after viewing "Gotcha Day." Elizabeth is absolutely gorgeous! I cannot beleive how fast she has settled in to her new role in your family! I cannot wait to see her! Safe travels! Beth Lucas
What a blessing to read the account of your first hours with Elizabeth! She is a miracle and absolutely breathtaking. She looks perfectly at home in both her mommy's and daddy's arms. I know you all are on cloud nine right now. God bless all of you as you spend these next days with your precious new family member. I cannot wait for John to meet his mei mei! Love, Joel, Donna & Eliza
susan and david, just wanted you to know dave's pink shirt was not lost on me!! it has been wonderful to be able to follow you along your journey; thank you for that. we will continue to pray for you, elizabeth and john. how exciting it will continue to be. we remember seeing the "first moment" picture gerry took of jennifer and brooke; priceless. carolyn and john mccoy
susan and david, just wanted you to know dave's pink shirt was not lost on me!! it has been wonderful to be able to follow you along your journey; thank you for that. we will continue to pray for you, elizabeth and john. how exciting it will continue to be. we remember seeing the "first moment" picture gerry took of jennifer and brooke; priceless. carolyn and john mccoy
Your website is so beautiful! I live in NC. Our family hopes to travel in early 2006 to bring our baby girl home from China. I am so enjoying following your journey to Elizabeth. Congratulations...and thank you for giving a waiting family much hope and inspiration!!!! Blessings~ Bobbi Newsome
Just viewed your pictures of your beautiful little angel. She is gorgeous!!! God has truly blessed!! Please know that you all are in our prayers as you are away from home. May God keep you safely in the palm of his hand as you continue your journey. Rita Moody
Nothing but tears...of joy...today! My heart is filled with pure happiness knowing "Little E" is with you guys!!! I just could care less about anything else right now....just knowing your familiy is complete!! Waiting for your return....:-) ~Linda W.
NO WORDS>>>>>just sobs of joy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHE IS BREATHTAKING! love Scottie, Chris, Hannah, Ashlyn, Mary, Josh, and Bear
Dear, beautiful Elizabeth! Looking at your pictures of the day you met your mom and dad fill my eyes with tears of joy. Joy for you and your sweet, caring parents and brother! It is so amazing to see how perfectly God created you for each other! You are so perfect! Your beautiful little fingers, toes, eyes, lips...everything! I cannot wait to see you in person! We send all of our prayers and love to you all! Sean, Angela, Kieron, Ashton Bride
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I am Kimmy Naib and live in Atlanta with my husband, Dean. Our DTC/LID is June 30, 2005 and we are CCAI clients. Elizabeth is simply beautiful! Congratulations!
It has given us such joy to follow your journey to Elizabeth. Today I woke up and said to my husband, "It's little Elizabeth's Gotcha Day! I want to look at the website!" We both loved seeing the pictures of her beautiful smile (of course, after she stopped her initial crying!!!!). You both look very happy. We are adopting through Holt and expect to be DTC at the end of November. August seems a long way off until we get our little girl but following the excitement and happiness of others makes it go faster! A lifetime of blessings to you and your family, Lynne and Ed Portland, OR Paperchasing for DD#1 Amelia Sophia!
Susan and Dave, YES,YES,YES....you have welcomed Elizabeth into your arms and your family!! I kept clicking on your website all during the day until Finally..GOTCHA was there!! She is such a cutie pie...and Dave was so apropo in his pink shirt--we did notice!!! I know you are having so much joy with her already!! I keep checking the website to see how y'all spent your first full day together. Our kids love her panda bear!! Can't wait to see you guys! Susan, Cliff, Devynne, C.F., David, and Molly
Congratulations!!! Linda forwarded the web site to me. Will and I are so happy for you, we feel that you have been involved in our most special events, our wedding, Elizabeth's portrait and we will soon be there with Charles. Our prayers are with you for a safe journey home with your beautiful new daughter. Deb Patton
David and Susan, I have enjoyed following this blessed event with you. God truly has wonderful things in store for you and your family. I hope we will be able to meet Elizabeth one day. She is such a beautiful little girl and so blessed that you have been chosen to be her parents. Have a safe trip. I love you and are praying for you. Evelyn Wolcson
somebody is mighty cute, and we will be mighty glad when you are safely home. we check everyday, many times, for your updates. it is all just so special. God is so good, all the time. we pray for you everyday. with love, carolyn and john mccoy
I looked all over for the guestbook the other day! Elizabeth is not only possitively GORGEOUS, but also seems so healthy and happy. You make a beautiful family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you! The Loos Family~Jeff, Lisa, Cameron, Brandon, Ryan, Allie, and soon AnnaClaire
Your website has been so distracting for me at work that I have only retouched one portrait since you've been gone. Really- I kid. Can't wait for you to buy Elizabeth her first pair of jeans. Can't wait for John David to play hide and seek with her. Can't wait for you guys to get home and breathe in some fresh clean mountain air.(-oops-forgot about eastman). We're all happy for God's blessings in your life-she's a gift. Cort.
David and Susan-- Elizabeth is beautiful -- as is the love you two obviously feel for her. What a very blessed family you have. Congratulations and best wishes to you all. Sincerely, Lisa (Holland)Banton
What a cutie!!!! Congratulations. We can't wait to meet Elizabeth. Thanks again for sharing your "journey" See you at Thanksgiving. Jeff & Sabrina
You know, I really hope my work does not monitor my internet usage because I have kept your website open from the time I get in to the time I leave!!! These updates are just the highlight of my day! I'll tell you what, seeing some of your pictures makes appreciate some of the clean air regs we have here in the good o USA! Elizabeth is just Fantastic! What a smile! I love you guys and I can't wait to see this gal - Thanksgiving might just be too long to wait to meet her. As dad says, "I love yall more than a hound dog loves a soup bone dipped in gravey" (Ashley has added the "dipped in gravey" part, apparently her Boxer really likes gravey). I hope the prevailing winds are behind the plane you take home so you can get back faster! I love yall! Emily
Great to see support for the Hokies all the way in China! I'm following the Tech game right now so it was a hoot to see Elizabeth's cute heiney supporting my favorite team. I live in NC and we are waiting for our TA. Hopefully we will travel to pick up our Lia soon (she's waiting for us in Guangdong)! Thank you for sharing your story. It helps the waiting process...
Hi..Jen Colon sent me your site. We will be at the White Rose on November 13 to get our precious daughter. Your sweet Elizabeth is so beautiful and looks so happy. You are truly blessed. Happy travels home with your new daughter. Laura DD Annslee in Qichun,Hubei
Hey guys congratulations on your beautiful new daughter. She looks like she is so happy, as I am sure you guys are also. We are Wendi and Jamie Glover, sister and brother-in-law of Carla and Benny Spivey from the China Angels group. We are very anxious to get our niece next summer. We look forward to continue following your journey and cannot wait to see your little angel at an upcoming OCA event. Wendi and Jamie
Whew!! So glad you found time to update this site. I feared the 'Natives were getting restless' :] We are hanging on to your every word!! She is SO beautiful. Sheila
She is beautiful! We are praying for you, and are excited for you. Can't wait to meet her. We love you, Rachel and Kirk
I cannot get over how beautiful Elizabeth is. She looks so very happy and at ease. I know that she must have her moments but she seems to be doing so well. I can't wait to see you all at the airport in 11 days!!! Thank you so much for all of the effort you are putting into this website and allowing us to join you on this journey of a lifetime for your family. You will have to brief Tom and I on the whole interrogation thing. I think both Tom and myself would get the hairs on our necks standing up with her. Dave will have to coach us on that 'staying calm under pressure' thing! I hope all goes well while touring Elizabeth's hometown. I am continuing to pray for your family and I hope you are feeling lots better Susan. We love you and pray that our Wonderful Creator will protect and sustain you on every step of this journey. Love, Barb
Dear Clapps! Congratulations to you! I LOVE your story! Can't wait to meet your Elizabeth! God Bless! Mary Schmidt and Co.
Congratulations on your new daughter. I can see how much love you have for Elizabeth and I hope she always knows that it is love that brought her here. Heather LID July 20, 2005 for Sydney (or Twins!) www.EncinosaFamily.com
We want more! We want more! We want more! Just kidding....I KNOW you all are really busy. Elizabeth is such a beauty and I'm so anxious to meet her! In the Hokies pic...I just love her little pink heel. She's so perfect! Brittany
Hello, Just wanted to let you know how much we have enjoyed your website and your pictures are just wonderful, it gives us hope that it really can happen!!!! We hope to be traveling sometime in May. Elizabeth is just a doll. God Bless and hope for your safe return. Tammy and Randy "waiting for Meisha"
Dear Susan, David and John, What a joy it is to read about your new little daughter/sister! We rejoice with you in her arrival in your family, and we eagerly anticipate meeting her in person. Her birth date is so special. What an awesome God we serve! With our love, Carolyn and Jack
What a beautiful blessing, your family of four!! I have chills looking at your pictures in China and of those great Ashian beauty photos. My daughter (a single parent) was lucky to be chosen as one of the 8% singles to adopt. She is LID 7/8/05. She lives in Atlanta and I am in Florida and will go with her to China on her journey to get her baby girl. My husband will stay home with the dog and be ready to take care of us when we return. Thank you for sharing your journey and pictures. Susan :)
Hey guys, i have loved being able to follow your journey to China and can't wait to see you soon and meet my new cousin!! I pray for you daily and i miss you lots! love from iowa, hannah
Congratulations!!! Elizabeth is so beautiful. We are so happy for you all. We can't wait to see her. Take care and enjoy your last few days in China. Love you all! The Laughlin's Scott,Laura, Hilliary,Peyton,and Abbey Grace(who can't wait to play with Elizabeth]
Deaar David & Susan, I really enjoyed seeing all the pictures and the process of the adoption. I know you all are very happy with your new daughter. She is a lucky girl to have parents like you two. I am sure John David will entertain his sister. God Bless you all. Love, Olga
Susan and David.....I have so much enjoyed watching your journey to China. God has blessed you with two prercious children. Thank you for sharing this with everyone. You are very special people and John and Elizabeth have been given two very loving and wonderful parents. You are their gift from God. May your days shine as bright as the faces of John and Elizabeth. Carol Jackson
My Dear Sweet Elizabeth, "Ditto"-I can't wait to meet you. You are beautiful and I am anxiously awaiting your arrival. I Love you, Mom and Dad-Hurry Home. MawMaw
What a beautiful website, for a beautiful family!! Our Gotcha days are exactly one year apart. Can't wait to see that little girl in my office! Congratulations--Meg and Craig Farmer
Hi Dave & Sue, Last night we celebrated Adoption Day. The anniversary of the day that Danita's adoption became final. I took her flowers and we had a fun time going out to dinner and talking for long hours over desert. We pray that you will have wonderful adoption day dinners with Elizabeth for many many years to come. Our Love Always Kirk & Rachel
Each time I read your posts I get so excited for you and Elizabeth! I must admit though that I do not read without a tissue nearby! The picture of Elizabeth at her "finding spot" really poured the tears! I do also love the newspaper clipping! How exciting to have that for her! I am so happy that she is bonding to you! It won't be long before she will be clinging on mommy and John as much as she is daddy. I cannot wait until the time you all come home and we can love on her too! She is such a doll! Every picture of her is so adorable! If I were you, I would get a reserve panda just in case you need it! IT is so cute how she is so attached! We continue to pray for you and Elizabeth! By the way, I LOVE the picture of Marcus Vick on your post, but most of all the "I'm behind the Hokies" pants! HA! So cute! I want some for our baby! GO HOKIES!!! VT all the way!!! God bless you all, Angela, Sean, Ashton, and Kieron Bride
Each time I read your posts I get so excited for you and Elizabeth! I must admit though that I do not read without a tissue nearby! The picture of Elizabeth at her "finding spot" really poured the tears! I do also love the newspaper clipping! How exciting to have that for her! I am so happy that she is bonding to you! It won't be long before she will be clinging on mommy and John as much as she is daddy. I cannot wait until the time you all come home and we can love on her too! She is such a doll! Every picture of her is so adorable! If I were you, I would get a reserve panda just in case you need it! IT is so cute how she is so attached! We continue to pray for you and Elizabeth! By the way, I LOVE the picture of Marcus Vick on your post, but most of all the "I'm behind the Hokies" pants! HA! So cute! I want some for our baby! GO HOKIES!!! VT all the way!!! God bless you all, Angela, Sean, Ashton, and Kieron Bride
Thank you for this website. We are LID 9-8-05 so this has been great to help us get an idea of what to expect when we get Hannah next spring/summer. Elizabeth is precious and God has really blessed you...and her. I can't wait to meet her in person. Gloria Dixon
Dear David and Susan, We just want to tell all of your family and friends how our experience with John has been for the last two weeks. It is been great! He is the sweetest, most adorable, best-behaved child. We have taken him to Busch Gardens, church (several times), to the local kidsburg (a terrific park in Williamsburg), trick-or-treating, to playland with a new friend, and today we went to visit relatives of Aunt Gail's. He has been so polite--we are so proud of him. He has never cried the entire time he has been here and never had to be given a time-out. He has gone to bed every night at 8:00 and cheerfully gotten up between 7:00 and 8:00 every morning. He has eaten well (not too many sweets!) We have always loved him but since he has been here, our love for him has grown so much and we will miss him when he goes back home in a week. We are glad everything is going so well for you all in China and are keeping you in our prayers for a safe journey back to the states. Love, Gail and Jerry
Hello, my sister--Mary Schmidt--sent me your websight. I waited to read it, for I had a sense it would be very meaningful, and I was right . . . I've been crying throughout the whole "tour". Congratulations to you all, and God Bless you. What a marvelous way to witness God's goodness. Julie Sullivan
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Susan and Dave, We just got your postcard yesterday, it was so thoughtful of you to think of us while you are on your journey to get your daughter. I have really enjoyed reading your journal and Elizabeth is beautiful. I love her panda bear, Joseph has a little black bear that I gave him when we got home from Vietnam and he still goes just about everywhere with us. Let's try to get the boys together sometime soon after things have settled down at your house. Joseph asks often when he's going to see John again. I hope to see you Monday, have a safe trip. God Bless, Beverly Cox
What a wonderful website! We have been reading every word and are so happy for you. We can't wait to see you and your new addition on Monday!! Love, Dana, Charlie, and Amanda Outlaw
David, Susan and Dear Sweet Elizabeth....how wonderful it is to "be there" with you as you share this fabulous journey with us!!!! I have cried, laughed and smiled with joy reading your journal and seeing your pictures. How Wonderful it all is (except for the potties)!!!!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share and can't wait to meet the new family!!!!! Bette Patton
What a wonderful dream come true. You and David are truly blessed to have dear Elizabeth. She will be blessed to have such great parents. Love to you all. Sara Jane Day
What a wonderfull website and idea as we follow your adventure. We look forwqard to meting Elizabeth as the months go on. Thanks for your announcement and may God grant you the energy and stamina to make it home. (I know that He has already given you all the love to shower upon Elizabeth). Dan
Welcome Elizabeth! We have followed your parents whole adoption trip to China for you - such a beautiful little girl. You all are so blessed. Hopefully someday we will meet you and your family. Your friends, Ben, Lisa, Emma, Lilla (Zhuzhou, Hunan) and soon Clara (Yanbian, Jilin) Reeder ><> Marina, CA
so very excited for you all! can't wait to see more upon your arrival home with your complete family! love you! jen
What a beautiful story and website! We are just starting the paperchase and I am so inspired! Best wishes for a wonderful life with Elizabeth!
Thank you for sharing your amazing journey. I have enjoyed reading it. Your daughter is beautiful and so very happy!! I hope to be in your shoes this time next year. Regards, Karen Spencer
I have been grateful to follow your journey to Elizabeth! We're hoping to bring our daughter home early in 2006. Thank you for sharing! Blessings to your family! Julie S.
Ok...so here it is...the final hours...you guys are going to be stepping foot in on East TN soil in just 31 more hours!!!!! Gosh I can't tell you enough about how great your website has been. First everyone feels so apart of your journey...which I feel so honored to be allowed to do....and it is just so kind of you to show so much of the process to all of us!!! I have just loved your letters and the pictures are just amazing. I just can't get over her and that Panda Bear...how special:-) Well...we will see you shortly...to welcome you back home...and to welcome Little E to her new home! Thanks for sharing the journey!!! ~Linda W.
Thanks for the journey. I hope you are happy, you made a 38 year old man breakdown in tears. Hoping to make the journey this time next year.
Dear Susan and Dave Congratulations to your sweet daughter Elizabeth, she is totally cute. All the best for your life together as a family of 4 and save trip back to the US. All the best Susanne in Iceland dh Einar dd Anna Xing, born 10. June 2004 in Guangxi, adopted May 9 - 6 month ago. What a journey! www.ulfur.net
We love your web site. Great news about Elizabeth. Philllp and Rebecca Boggs (friends of Gail and Jerry)
We love your web site. Great news about Elizabeth. Phillp and Rebecca Boggs (friends of Gail and Jerry)
Welcome Home David, Susan, John and Elizabeth!!! What fun it has been to follow your journey half way around the world! Amazing!!! Today, at church, we celebrated "Adoption Awareness" month! A parent had put together a video showing many of the children that have been adopted through the years by members in our church. What a blessing as we saw children from China, Korea, Russia, and Latvia! I was one of the lucky relatives that got to visit with Gail and Jerry and John David when they visited Richmond last week! Gail is right....John is the sweetest little guy, absolutely adorable!!! He told me all about himself and then gave me a piece of his trick-or-treat candy (orange Trident gum! Yummy!) I know he's going to love Elizabeth and be a wonderful big brother!!! Thanks for taking the time to share so much with so many......can't wait to see you all, much love, Larry, Melinda, Christy and Daniel Clapp "Because Your love is better than life, my lips will glorify You!" psalm 63:3
Welcome Home David, Susan, John and Elizabeth!!! What fun it has been to follow your journey half way around the world! Amazing!!! Today, at church, we celebrated "Adoption Awareness" month! A parent had put together a video showing many of the children that have been adopted through the years by members in our church. What a blessing as we saw children from China, Korea, Russia, and Latvia! I was one of the lucky relatives that got to visit with Gail and Jerry and John David when they visited Richmond last week! Gail is right....John is the sweetest little guy, absolutely adorable!!! He told me all about himself and then gave me a piece of his trick-or-treat candy (orange Trident gum! Yummy!) I know he's going to love Elizabeth and be a wonderful big brother!!! Thanks for taking the time to share so much with so many......can't wait to see you all, much love, Larry, Melinda, Christy and Daniel Clapp "Because Your love is better than life, my lips will glorify You!" psalm 63:3
We are so excited for you all. We can't wait to see Elizabeth. We love following you all to China. See you at the airport. Congratulations! Love, Doug & Freddie Foster
Congratulations! She is so beautiful and lucky that God chose you to be her Angels on earth. I was brought to tears several times, I cannot imagine your emotions. May God Bless you. Allen and Angie Adkins
susan and david, today you come home. you have been so much on our minds and in our hearts all along your journey. please know how you have blessed others by allowing all of us to join you along the way. with world events causing such turmoil, to go to your website and soak in God's goodness through His gift of adoption to ALL has been a comfort and a joy. today we think of john and all the joy that awaits you. with thankful hearts and love to your priceless and precious family, carolyn and john mccoy
Dear Dave and Sue, What a wonderful story of joy and love! I have loved following your journey to get your precious Elizabeth. Your photos are beautiful, and she looks like such a happy, vibrant little girl. I look forward to meeting Elizabeth and seeing you all as a family. Love, Melissa Fischer
Dave and Susan, Welcome home! Reading your journal entries made me smile and cry. It was like being there again. Makes me want to go back!!! We'll call in the next few days to see when we can meet Miss Lizzy. Love, Terri, Tom, Paige, Jill, and Hope
Susan,dave, Elizabeth and John, What a beautiful journey that you guys have so wonderfully shared with us!! We absolutely loved following "your journey" as it made us feel as though we were there with you. She is one lucky little girl that is for sure! can't wait to see you guys in a few weeks.. Susan, Cliff, Devynne, C.F., David and Molly
Your journey has been a blessing for me as I wait (not so patiently) for my turn in China. Elizabeth is beautiful and has totally blossomed since "gotcha day". John is one lucky big brother! Julie in GA Waiting for DD #1 Kacey LID 7/8 GWCA
To Elizabeth's Mommy and Daddy, A friend who is on day 122 of an expected 210 to adopt her daughter, Kacey, from China forwarded the link to your website. How beautiful!!! I hope and pray that you all are now home safe and sound and that Elizabeth will first: sleep and second: thrive in your loving home. I am an adoptive mom myself (although domestic)and know your joy! May God bless you and keep you! In His Name, Cathy S. Atlanta, GA
hi susan and david! james found your web site and i've been overwhelmed by the pictures of your adoption. we are adopting a little girl too...her name is abigail. we hope to travel to China sometime in march (or before, of course). you took beautiful pictures at our wedding in kingsport in 1995 (James Hoy and Valena Manley). please join us in prayer for abigail. the waiting is so very difficult...i pray that all the hands and hearts that care for her will be grace-filled and overflowing with love. we, of course, will want you to photograph her. we've always wanted you to do another family portrait or baby portrait...your adoption only reaffirms that you are the perfect people for this precious gift and memory in our lives. my very best to your whole family as you settle in, un-pack, and enjoy life. many blessings, Valena Hoy
WOW!!!! What a journey you ALL have had!!! God is good - all the time!!! We are extremely happy for you all. Elizabeth is adorable!! She is a very blessed little girl. And, what a birthdate!!!! I know she'll have a wonderful 1st birthday on Sunday in America and with her new family. I know she'll have a wonderful life. We love you all!! Many blessings upon you. Love, Donna & Jack
Ooops!! Oh Yeah, Welcome HOME!!!!! Love, Donna & Jack
WOW. To see Lizzy come down that hall from the airplane was the most exhilirating experience since the birth of Taylor. To think God allows us to have these moments of pure joy are amazing. My note is to my sweet new cousin. I loved you the moment I looked into your eyes Lizzy. I too was blessed and given the gift of this amazing family through adoption and our family is nothing short of a precious gift from God. We may not have been born of the same DNA but the love and bond of this family run deeper than blood type, so I welcome you kindred spirit. I welcome you our sweet new addition and know that you are loved. Thank you for being who you are and know you have Taylor, Mary, Hannah, Ashlyn, Josh and your amazing brother to grow with. We will never let you be alone and your parents are diamonds in the rough. Little girl......welcome.....WE SO LOVE YOU. Amy & Taylor ( whom I might add was ready to get down and play as soon as you came through the doors)
Imet you and elizabeth on your flight to Charlotte. What a great day! I am glad you all were on my flight and I was able to be a little part of Elizabeth's homecoming. Elizabeth, enjoy your new home and family, and welcome to the United States of America! Debbie Rhoads, flight attendant from US Airways.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. We await our third daughter from China (LID 6/05) and were able to relive our first two trips through your pictures and words...your daughter is beautiful and I look forward to hearing about your son's first meeting with her soon! Paula
SOOOooooo glad you all are finally home (and I'm sure you are 1000x more!)!!! Your Elizabeth is such a little Princess and I can't wait to play with her! John is going to have such a great time with her too. Your postings and pics from China were fabulous. Thanks for including all us in your amazing journey......Brittany Robinson
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. My husband and I are in the "wait" for Lila. We hope to bring her home sometime late summer 2006. I love your website graphics and wish we were close enough to use your photographer. We live in So. Indiana, just over the bridge from Louisville, KY. Jason and I love the Smoky Mts. and frequent Bryson City when we need a break from our routine. Best of luck and love to your family. Sincerely, Felice Pierce
Congrats on your lovely daughter and your inspiring trip. We live near Chattanooga and since referrals have slowed may very well travel this same time next year. We prayed for your safety and health during your journey and just were inspired by it daily. Take care and enjoy your new blessing. Emily and Mel Paperchasing DD with Holt International
Dear Susan,David,and John David Talked with Chris last night and she told us that you just got home with your new daughter and sister. We know this must be a joyous and exciting time for your family! We want to congradulate you for such a greatful deed. Looking forward to seeing you and your new daughter. Blessings to you, Scottie and Paddie
WELCOME HOME, SWEET, PRECIOUS ELIZABETH!!! I am so happy for you and your dear family! I am so sad that we were not able to be there to welcome you in the airport, but Sean has just gotten out of the hospital and we were not able to attend! I am so jealous of all of those who were able to see your beautiful face and personality in person! I will soon and cannot wait! You are so special! God created you to be a Clapp and joined you together by a dear, red thread! You are so perfect in every way, especially that SMILE!!! So gorgeous!!! It can melt any heart, especially a Daddy's! (Be careful David; she will have you wrapped around her little finger! That is if she hasn't already!) Again, we want to say WELCOME HOME!!! WE love you!!! Through Christ Who strengthens us, The Brides Angela, Sean, Ashton, Kieron - all waiting on Reagan
Welcome little one. None of you know me but we have things in common. I too am going to China to bring home Sophia Joy to Nashville Tennessee. It has been an absolute joy to see your family bring to home and be apart of your journey. Thanks for opening your families lives to me...it has touched my heart deeply. Katie Jo
I so loved the pictures and the website. Baby Elizabeth is beautiful!! I cried reading your homecoming entry and how bad you missed your son. I also loved the picture with the yellow bottle and panda but it made me cry to. love always, paula, mike, david shane and Jaida.
I have been following your journey and I just love your website and story. Your homecoming and journal were so sweet! Di
Welcome HOME Elizabeth and Family! It has been wonderful to follow your journey. We are the Heflin's from Liberty Missouri. We have a LID of May 13 and are waiting for Emily. We are "cyberfriends" with Barb Keith from Tennessee. Elizabeth is beautiful. Your family has been blessed! Take care, Kathryn Heflin
Your journey has been an inspiration and Elizabeth is a joy. I've never seen such a happy baby during the transition. Your family is blessed. I'm currently waiting with Barb Keith (LID 5-20-05 CHI) for our referral of our daughter. Thanks for sharing you story with us. Gina Descheneaux
Welcome home! I have LOVED following your journey - Elizabeth is gorgeous! Congratulations!
susan-david-john-elizabeth i found this poem by jill work that so expresses some of the feelings you might have felt: a half a world away a child waits for a family of it's own while a half a world away a family waits to come bring her home a half a world away sometimes it seems we are so far apart but a half a world away is not too far for a journey of the heart. love, auntie
Wonderfull pictures ...Beautifull baby...You have an eye for the camera... Visiting your site per request of mom and dad...(m/m Douglas Sellars of Flagpond)... Will send them your pictures. Thankyou. Douglas Sellars Jr.
Okay, you've been home almost a week now... we need updates! How does John like his little sister? How are things going? I've been checking the site everyday! - Lisa (Holland) Banton
Hey, what's up!? I'm with Lisa! I've been waiting for the pictures of John David meeting his new little sister! I just know, every day, this will be THE DAY!!! And I know you've got to be taking pictures! I also know you must be exhausted after your excursion to the other side of the globe......just know that your family would love to see some John David/Elizabeth pics. This journey was like a soap opera; we got addicted!!! But in a good way! much love, melinda
I loved your web site. It is absolutely beautiful!!! We are waiting for our referral and this was just what I needed to brighten my day! Elizabeth is one lucky little girl! Congratulations! Allison Rhodes
Congratulations. The journey can now be on its American way. Love Well try to come by and see Elizabeth sometime after Thanksgiving.
precious clapps, thanks for the update today. you have been very diligent, knowing how much others have cared about each of you along your journey. we will continue to remember you in our prayers as you settle down as a "forever family", of four. with caring and love, carolyn and john mccoy
You all are so blessed! Elizabeth already knows she has a great home and family. You can see the joy in her eyes. Much love, Monica
Bonjour, It's a wonderfull works that you have made, my english is not very good, we are happy that you return at home. I think in the airport to the USA, everybody was happy for you but you have just see John who was waiting for you and ...Elisabeth. Congratulation and thank you for your message, it's very nice to meet people like you, we are sure that Elisabeth and John will be happy with You Christian,Carine, Charlotte et Imine
I only just got this link- It didnt show up as a new msg but it was amidst really old ones and i found this as i was cleaning it out. Right now I am sniffling and wiping away tears of happiness at this beautiful process and at the love that comes through in this page- i cannot wait wait to meet miss elizabeth. i already have love for her and i havent even met her yet. Thank you for sharing this with me. So much love to each of you and a special hug to john david and elizabeth. love, ashley
Hi David and Susan, Just saw your website for the first time. I've been wiping tears through the whole thing. What a treasure you have journaled for Elizabeth. Anjali is adjusting well. She smiles more everyday and even chuckles every now and then. The other kids are enjoying her more than she is enjoying them. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas season, Mary Van Farowe
I was referred through CWA buddies about your adopton journey. Your web site is awesome! Your daughter is beautiful and I have enjoyed following your journey. I too have a daughter adopted from China. She will be three in January. God bless your beautiful family. The King Family Beaufort, SC www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenking
What a beautiful Web site and what a precious daughter you have! My husband an I are DTC as of yesterday, for our own precious daughter from China! Thanks for sharing! Susan
This was actually one of the best adoption sites I've read in all of my readings. I love the colors, and the photos are excellent quality.
Wow...this is one of the best websites I have ever seen!
Congrats on your new little one. She is adorable. I had to show my
Elizabeth(3) your little Elizabeth as we should be getting a referral for her
sister this week. We both think your daughter is a cutie.
My husband and I are in the process of adopting from
China. Sometimes I get so discouraged, it seems to be taking so long and there
is always another paper to be filled out. I just want to hold my child in my
arms! Elizabeth is BEAUTIFUL!! I'm so happy for you. Maybe one day we'll
get to have a play date for our China Angel and Elizabeth. Joylene and
Jeff
What a beautiful website, and what a gorgeous little
girl. I can't wait to come back and see John's page after construction is
complete. Nice work-beautiful family!!
Great travel log. I got my daughter 1`/8/2002 in Wuhan,
ccai group 335. I find it interesting that not much looks changed in almost 4
years. Hong Kong is to die for. My 4 year old and good friends from our group
went back to China to adopt their 2nd. We got to visit Hong Kong and then on
to Chongqing, at very hilly, hot and humid spot of 31 million. We love China
and can not wait to go again. Was much more fun to shop and sightsee when you
already have your child. Great web page. Did you get to tour the orphanage? My
daughter was the only one of 13 from Wuhan Welfare Center, we were permitted
to tour it. I traveled alone to pick up Hannah and would not recommend it for
the 1st but after going again I would go alone with my now 5 year old. She is
a great traveler and companion. You mention the tri cities, What cities?
Thanks for sharing your journey. How is she doing with the potty. Mine was
done with diapers at 2. Bobbi Humphreys Herrick Arvada, Colorado
Just found your site and have been soooo blessed by it. I
LOVE the Some Babies Come By Plane pictures and music. We were LID Oct. 31st
2005 and are waiting. We can't wait to experience some of the wonderful things
you all did! God Bless!!!! Stacey Hesman
Beautiful work, truly enjoyed your website!
Thank you for your Web site. Saw it mentioned on the CHI
Yahoo group. We returned from China August 4 with our newest daughter who is
from Anhui province. It was very special seeing many of the same sites we
visited featured on your Web site. God has truly blessed us in our journey,
can see that it is equally true for you all. Dwayne Hastings Franklin, TN
www.findinggracee.blogspot.com
Your website is beautiful, I enjoyed it very much. My
husband and I are waiting on a referral and looking at your journey helped me
to know what is truly about to happen. Your children are beautiful. Thank you
for sharing your family's journey. Tina DeNiro, Cincinnati
Congratulations to your family. Your website and photos
are beautiful. My husband and I have two sons and are paperchasing right now
for a little girl. The details about Susan's Dad really touched my heart
because I lost my mom last year at the young age of 60 to Cancer. I would love
to have her here with me during this time.
This is a beautiful site! Someone was an excellent
photographer! I have a 9 year old daughter from Hanchuan. She was adopted 6
years ago. We were not able to see Hanchuan. She really enjoyed seeing your
pictures of her home. THANK YOU!
Dave& Susan - Thank you for sharing your adoption story.
It is beautiful! We are going through CHI, and our LID is 9/13/05, and someone
told me about your web-site. Elizabeth is beautiful and John is so cute! We
have a 10 year old daughter, so I enjoyed how you made your son feel included
and special. I will use some of your these. Thank you for sharing your pics
and story. God Bless your beautiful family. Colette Walker Tulsa, Oklahoma
Beautiful photos. We're adopting from China, we are
waiting for our paperwork to come back from the Chinese Consulate in Chicago.
Thanks for your documentation I will have a better idea of what to expect.
We love your web site and Some Babies Come by Plane! We
are in the "waiting" process of adoption and looking at the web sites/pictures
of those who have gone before us is inspiring. Elizabeth is beautiful!!!!
Loren and Kristin Thompson
Hi I am writing this from over in England. My husband and
I are about to start the process of trying to adopt a little girl from China.
I found the my adoption website whilst searching for information on the
process. I have read your family website and had tears of joy for you
and your family for the love of your little girl. I just wanted to say that
this website gives others lots of hope and thank-you for sharing your families
journey with us xx
Your website is great thank you so much for sharing your
experience. We are waiting our 171h form to come so our dossier can go over to
china. We cannot wait to see our daughter!!
Susan and David, This is absolutely beautiful. I rejoice
with you and your lovely family. May the days ahead be filled with
wonder...and grace... and joy.
Denise DePriest, Christ Fellowship Church, Ministry to Children
I just read your complete story and I am in tears!! It
was so beautiful! Thank you for allowing a complete stranger read about your
journey! My husband and I were DTC 1/10/06 and stories like yours give me hope
and strength! We will be bringing Lily home to two big brothers who will be
41/2 and 2 1/2 when we travel. Thanks again! Melissa Devine
Great site! Thanks for sharing your story. It makes the
long wait almost bearable! Best wishes to your beautiful family! Glenda from
S.C, LID 8/24 for Kylee
I have truly enjoyed reading your site!! We have a 6/27
LID with CCAI, and our anxiously awaiting our referral for our Elizabeth!!
I've wiped several tears from my eyes while reading your site. My mom passed
away 13 days after my youngest son was born, and Elizabeth is being named
after her, so the story about your dad really hit home.Your Elizabeth is
SOOOOO adorable! I trust God's timing, but certainly hope we will get our
referral soon:) God bless you, Cindy Woodall
Maumelle, AR dh Jeff ds Caleb(11), Aaron(8.5),and Noah(4.5)
I found your adoption site in a guestbook for another
traveller on this journey. I am grammy to be. My daughter and son-in-law are
adopting from Mexico. They are not a part of a group, so our support system
during this time of waiting is pretty small. I was surfing to find others on
the same journey and I found your story. I want to take time to wish you a
speedy happy adoption adventure, for you and your little one. I would love to
hear from you and be able to follow your celebration if you would care to
write. Glo
I already signed this book once tonight but I visited the
page about the day you lost your dad and got your litle girls name and picture
and well..the Kleenex was close by...good thing. so I ahve returned to tell
you that our families paths are very similar. We are all very similar. My
daughter has alo lost her Dad. The nursery is ready at her home too and the
picture i online. The theme is Butterfly Kisses and has a memory spot for her
Dad as well. My guess is your Mom has a clue what my shoes are like as I watch
a daughter travel this jorney and wait for a grandchild. Oh and Jer 29:11 well
another very special verse for us. We too are devout Christians. The Mothers
Day note was also beautiful You have a very special place waiting for your
child I can tell. Not just in your home, but in your hearts. God Bles you. Glo
I came across your website while researching adoption
from China. First of all, your website it beautiful! Very unique! Second,
thank you for documenting your journey the way you did. It was very inspiring
to read and very helpful! You are blessed!
Your website is beautiful and makes me long for my little
girl. Your other website for the photography studio is so pretty! What is the
music you have playing on that site? It is so sweet.
Dave & Susan, We just found your website and enjoyed
reliving the journey and seeing some new pictures. The trip to China seems so
long ago now b/c I can't imagine life without Nina. I'm so glad you all are
doing well. Elizabeth looks fantastic. Question - does she still have the
Panda? Thanks for the posting on Nina's site. Best regards! Elizabeth, Mark &
Nina
As I sat at the computer this late evening I do NOT know
what drew me to your site.......other than GOD!!! As I read your letter from
Mother's Day 2005 tears surge forth!! Your husband ,on behalf of your
daughter! I LOVE that you & he are teaching & rearing your daughter to KNOW &
revere God!! I think I needed that tonight......to KNOW that many other little
girls AND sons were being adopted, just as we were, into Christ!! Thank you
for your faith! And your belief !! YOU & your husband encouraged another
tonight!!!
Hi, I just checked out your site when you posted that
your daughter was in Posh Tots. What a gorgeous job you've done and I really
love your photos. Gave me ideas of things to capture for our trip for number
2! By the way -the woman pushing your baby in the shop (filled with little
bottles) is named Susan. We had some great conversations with her. Thank you
for sharing! Kimberly, dh Eric, dd Cleo a 3/14/2004
I have to tell you that your web site is just beautiful!
Elizabeth is so precious. My husband and I are thinking about adopting a baby
girl from China and your web site was a great way to see how the process works
and in addition to the great pictures. Hopefully, Elizabeth has not taken to
Mom as well as Dad. You have a beautiful and blessed family. I have to say I
cried when I read the letter John wrote from Elizabeth. Well we are still
looking for an agency and getting our finances in order so it may be about
another year before we can start our adoption process. Sincerely, Carrie &
Jeff Balthaser, Royersford, PA
That letter is so sweet. I just cried reading it. What a
thoughtful thing to do and what a beautiful surprise. Thank you for sharing it
Jennie, LID 07/13/05, http://waitingforpoppy.blogspot.com/
Your site is so precious. What a beautiful time!! We are
waiting for our referral and "should be" getting it in the next month or two
(LID June). Your site has been calming too me in the waiting time to remind me
of what's to come and that it is really going to happen. I also appreciate all
the details because I'm nervous about leaving the country. You did a fantastic
job with the entire site and telling your wonderful story. Thanks for sharing
it! God bless your precious family. Christine
My name is Tessa. I spoke with your mother at Along Came
a Spider. I worked there. You are soo cute! Good luck with everything. Tessa
Gregorich
Dave and Susan, I Just found your site and greatly
enjoyed reliving the trip. Thanks for sharing your experiences with so many
others who are still waiting. I wish I would have found a site like your's
while we were waiting. It is beautiful. Cate is great and still good natured
but with an attitude. Thanks, Sheldon, Cam, Cole and Cate LiNa
Hi there, I am the proud momma of a Qichun baby! I
brought my daughter home to Ottawa, Ontario in February 1999. I love your
website - regardless of how many families I know with Children from China - I
still get "goose bumps" when I read another story of "families being built".
Enjoy your baby! Colleen, Syd's Momma!
My husband and I met you in Johnson City,TN at Heritage
Baptist Church. It was a joy to hear your story and see your beautiful little
girl. May God bless you and your family. D&J
What an amazing journey!! We share in the joy of your
beautiful Elizabeth. We too, are adopting a baby from China. Our dossier has
been sent so we still have some waiting ahead of us. May God's blessings be
upon you as you raise this precious gift! Regards, Steve and Jolene Hyink
Olympia, WA
i just want to say thank you for allowing a stranger to
share in your joy. your journey has touched my heart. my husband and i will be
traveling to taiwan later this year to pick up our twin daughters, harper and
taelor. i'm passing the time by enjoying the journals of those who have
"boldly gone before"! :) my almost 2 year old sat on my lap as i viewed your
pages and when she saw elizabeth's picture, she gasped and said "oh! beautiful
boy!" well, close! :) anyway, thanks again.. love, val
What a beautiful website! My husband and I are just
beginning the adoption process, and are so encouraged by the joy that is
evident in your words and pictures. Thanks so much!
How blessed you are!!! I have followed you site as I
anticipate a granddaughter from China. My daugter, a Florida Seminole, married
a Florida Gator. Their first child rearing mutual concession was that little
Mia Jade will not be dressed in Gator or Nole clothing. Lucky me! That leaves
Hokie wear! I love the photo 'Behind the Hokies' (Class of '69)
Congratulations. She is adorable! Sandy
Loved the site. And thanks for the kind words of
encouragement--we'll take all we can get. Hope to see you at a CCAI reunion.
Thanx David. --Kip & Treena
Your story is truly touching. I had to stop to wipe the
tears from my eyes at some points. I love all the photos. We have been talking
about adoption but hearing your story has really tugged at my heart strings.
You have two very beautiful children. What I find so funny is that your wife
must be the photographer! She is never in any of the pictures. I find this
very funny because I too am a photographer and I am never in the pictures. I
just want to wish you all the best of luck. I will never forget your story. I
would love to visit with you about the whole process. Thanks for sharing. Amy
Kay
I loved every bit of your story. It was inspirational.
Marie NY LID 6/16
I have been reading your "story" over the last couple of
days and it is so moving. You guys did a great job with the journaling and
pictures, I just loved it! We are in "the process". LID 4/29/06. Still a long
wait ahead, but we have the calm assurance of knowing that GOD has it all
taken care. Thanks for sharing your beautiful family with us. We look forward
to the day that we bring our Emma Elizabeth home to Tennessee!
Congratulations on your beautiful daughter. I loved your
website. We have just submitted our application to CCAI, and hope to have our
dossier completed and to China by December. Best wishes. Paul & Heather Peters
hello. i've looked at your photography page 'some babies
come by plane' it really touched me deep down. just want to thank you for
sharing your story of elizabeth with me. greetings from hong kong, betty chan
That is a precious story!! Makes me want to cry!! You
have been blessed by a beautiful little girl!!! She is precious!!!
Your website is remarkable!! My sister and her husband
have just begun the adoption process and I am already anticipating the union
of Kaitlyn with our family. Your story is captivating and I will pray for your
family of four each night. God has a special place for people like you, your
husband and the many others that will cherish and honor the life of little
girls from China. May God continue to bless you and keep you safe. My love
always. Stacey G. Burleyson (Aunt-To-Be) Rowan County, NC
awesome site - awesome family - awesome future
Hi Susan! I did not notice that your daughter is from
Hubei also! Wow! I have to admit I cried when I read about your father too.
You've been very supportive and sweet - thank you. I do miss my mom and I know
you miss your dad. :( I'm sending hugs your way. Here's something else we have
in common - my dad served on an aircraft carrier in the Navy. I bet you're
blond too. :) Thanks for the sweet comments! I will post with pictures
tomorrow! xoxo - Jennie
Susan, Dave, John David & Elizabeth: I've just read and
have enjoyed all of your entries posted of your journey to get Elizabeth. It
brought back many memories of our trips to China. We adopted our first
daughter, Anna Marie at 9 mos., on Mother's Day, May 2003 from Hunan Province
and we adopted Sophia Clare at 16 mos. in November 2005; she is from Jiangxi
Province. Thank you for sharing. Elizabeth is such a beautiful baby. God bless
you all. Tina
Hello, My husband and I are in the very early stages of
considering adopting a child from China. The internet has been a tremendous
source of information and inspiration...however I felt compelled to write to
let you know that your website for Elizabeth is the most touching and
beautiful one I have come across...it's clear how much you love her and
cherish the experience of her arrival into your lives. She is a beautiful girl
and her website is a reflection of that beauty. Best Wishes to you all...a
forever family. Warmest Regards, Kelly West Hartford CT
Susan -- Thank you for your recent comment on our blog (joeydennyemma.blogspot.com),
and for your tips about traveling to Wuhan. We'll certainly see if we can stay
at the Shangri La. Loved reading "hip hip Hubei" for the first time, too
(great way to remember how to pronounce it!) Denise H.
Dear Susan,
Thank you so much for your kind words and your encouragement---it means more
than we can say! Your family is lovely, and I so enjoyed following your
journey. You have a loving heart! Erin & Libby Mei
I just spent the past hour or so reading your adoption
story. Your daughter Beth (and family) is beautiful and the pictures you took
gave me a better idea of what I have to look forward to. My log in date is
8/8/06... a very lucky Chinese day, but for me it is going to be a very long
wait.... Though, I have a whole school (Arlington, VA outside of DC) of
children to teach & watch grow every day until my special girl comes.
Congratulations! Sharon
Elizabeth is absolutely adorable! What a cutie! God bless
you both! John makes the perfect big brother, too! Followed your journey and
back. Would love to read your most recent update but am in need a password. I
returned 9/28 with our daughter, Alivia Grace Li, she is the "joy" that fills
our soul! Life couldn't be any better. We give all glory and honor to God. PTL!
God bless - Lisa (mother to three blessings) www.myadoptionwebsite.com/luvulivi