August 29, 2005

Savanna's Chest

I couldn't find a simple chest that I really liked so I decided to buy an unfinished one (made of pine) and paint it the colors that are in Savanna's comforter. It took me two week-ends to complete in 100 degrees of heat. I was so happy when it was finally done. 

 Savanna's room is coming right along. My sister will be sewing the curtains pretty soon, then I'll be nearly finished with the big items. I've had such fun decorating.

 

Posted by Betsy at 00:56:56 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

August 26, 2005

Gift Registry

Thank you for wanting to know who I've registered with. I have registered with Target.com and BabiesRus.com (or in the store). It's great fun to pick items for Savanna but I'll need help from those of you who have had infants to let me know what I really need. Thank you for all the advice.

 

Posted by Betsy at 07:49:16 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

August 25, 2005

Savanna's crib and first presents

This white crib was put together with my own hands. It didn't really take too long and really wasn't that difficult to do. I purchased it from BabyWhiz.com after shopping everywhere for the best style and price. The crib will convert to a toddler bed and a full size bed.

Savanna and I wish to thank three of my co-workers, Ms. Sunshine, Muke, and the Princess for buying such special gifts. Ms. Sunshine was so thoughtful to buy Savanna's first stuffed animal. It is pictured on the crib. It is a very soft fluffy little lamb. She also wanted to make sure Savanna would follow the "straight and narrow" path in life and got her a "child's first Bible". It is adorable. I hope I don't corrupt her :)

Muke, also known as Mukous, bought some really colorful wooden initials. She's also the one who informed me that Savanna's initials would be "SNM" if I didn't change her name. Only Muke would think of such profanity. Thanks Muke, for your thoughtfulness.

My dear Princess bought Savanna's first "Mommy" picture books. They are so special. I will enjoy reading them to her. Thank you.

I want to thank my Auntie Jan for being such a great support through this adoption process. Today I was surpised to find a care package at my door when I came home from work. When I opened it I was shocked to find such wonderful presents. There was a beautiful soft lavendar blanket, a baby's photo album (where Savanna can store pictures of people who love her), and crib sheets that will match her room perfectly. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I feel overwhemed with gratitude. Thank you for your generosity and for sharing this wonderful experience with me.

Betsy

Posted by Betsy at 06:14:19 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

Savanna--Name Change

Today I had a good laugh with my co-workers about what would have been Savanna's full name, Savanna Noelle McC---. If you say "SNM" a few times you'll understand why I need to change her name. It really was an unconscious thought for those of you who would doubt my intentions :)

I'm leaning more towards Savanna Carolina Edna McC-- now. The meaning of the names are as follows: Savanna-spanish for "from the open plain; Carolina- latin for "beautiful woman"' Edna- Hebrew for "pleasure, delight". All of those will fit the characteristics of the baby. 

Posted by Betsy at 00:55:43 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

August 21, 2005

Legacy of an Adopted Child

I didn't write this but wanted to share it.

Once there were two women who never knew each other. One you do not remember, the other you call mother. Two different lives shaped to make you one. One became your guiding star, the other became your sun. The first gave you life and the second taught you how to live it. The first gave you a need for love, the second was there to give it. One gave you a nationality, the other gave you a name. One gave you talent, the other gave you aim. One gave you emotions, the other calmed your fears. One saw your first sweet smile, the other dried your tears. One sought for you a home that she could not provide, the other prayed for a child and her hope was not denied. And now you ask me through your tears the age old question unanswered through the yers. Heredity or environment, which are you a product of? Neither my darling. Neither. Just two different kinds of LOVE.

So true isn't it?

 

 

Posted by Betsy at 04:57:08 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

Baby girl


Today is one happy day for me. I just finished signing paperwork for the baby girl that I will be adopting from Guatemala. She was born on 8/9/05 at 9:28 a.m., weighing 5 lbs, 3 oz (normal for a Guatemalan baby). The name given at birth was Edna Carolina Perez.  Edna is a very old name and highly unusual for a Guatemala name. Edna was the name of my maternal grandmother. Kinda freaky huh?
 
I will name the baby Savanna Noelle (and will likely stick Edna in there too out of respect for her history and my Grandmother).
 
My sister, Karen, will go with me to pick her up around Nov or Dec, hopefully before Christmas.
 
Savanna is in a very loving foster home and being well cared for. The director of the adoption agency will fly to Guatemala on 9/12 and make sure she is meeting all of her developmental milestones, etc. I will get more pictures of her at that time.
 
I will be finding out more info about Savanna's bio mother within the next few months. I know that she was 37 years old and likely had other children. I know the decision to have her baby adopted must have been very difficult for her. I will keep her forever in my thoughts and prayers.
 
The next few months will be trying for me as I await Savanna's homecoming.
 
Thanks for all of your love and support.
 
Momma Betsy
Posted by Betsy at 03:43:31 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |