God-sightings, Grins, & Lots of Giggles

Our first full day with Hannah (Tuesday) brought us a variety of grins and giggles from our sweet little girl, along with a number of God-sightings that we've had so far on our trip.

Jill hasn't been able to share on the blog since her time is filled taking care of the kids.  But, she has been able to share a few prayer requests and praises with a group of friends and family who have joined our adventure by praying with us.  I'll include her praises from our last update here.

• Sunday night before our Monday Family Day was the best night of sleep I (Jill) had the whole trip!  Definitely an answer to prayer with all the thoughts and emotions I had leading up to meeting Hannah.  Joshua has also been sleeping a little more and doing very well during the day even when he’s tired.
   
• Hannah is looking around a lot at all the new people and places she is seeing.  She seems to be trying to figure out what is going on.  But, I also think they prepared her and she has a bit of an understanding that she gets to stay with us.  She is very content and laid back.  Thanks for praying for her little heart and for peace that only the Lord can give!
   
• Hannah warmed up to us very quickly.  A few minutes after we met we pulled out a ball and she started smiling.  She is very quiet and has only said a few words.  We have heard more English (repeating us) than Mandarin.  She repeated “mama, dada, Nathan, Brooke, and Joshua” in the sweetest little voice, which of course we loved!  But, she is able to communicate by pointing and using pictures, and we are able to tell her what’s next using a translate app or gestures.  So she has not been frustrated by our communication.
   
• Though she is quiet, she loves to laugh!  We have heard many more giggles and squeals of laughter than words.  Yesterday we checked out the pool at our hotel which was too chilly to actually swim in.  Nathan and Joshua did build up the courage for one quick jump in and out.  But, we were all able to play in the warm water of the hot tub.  Hannah squirted water from a little toy at all of us, including herself, and laughed and squealed with delight the whole time.  We are praising the Lord for the joy she has and know this is a gift that has helped her through the challenges she has faced in her little life and those that are still to come!

If you'd like to get our occasional prayer emails, let us know.  We're blessed to have so many people praying and loving Hannah and all of us from the other side of the world!

Outside of these God-sightings, grins, and giggles, we also had a few more official appointments with Hannah - including the official interview process and finalization of her adoption (per the government here).  There is a 24-hour "intermediary/guardianship" requirement before the adoption is considered final, and so we appeared before an official at the adoption center and a  notary officer after this period had passed for a final round of questions and interviews.  After answering their questions and having our picture taken (for the official records), we are excited to say that our adoption has been finalized!  Interestingly, both interviewers were curious about our last name ("Is that German?") and were interested in how we pronounced it and tried it out during the interviews.  But they also both commented at how sweet and adorable our little Hannah was, and readily signed their portions of the paperwork.

Finalization Day Family Picture!

Daddy & Hannah having some tickle time

Mommy sneaking some hugs and cuddles with Hannah

 Despite the ongoing appointments, travel, and back and forth from the hotel, our older three kids are looking for every opportunity to love on Hannah and welcome her to the family.  It's a joy to see their excitement and enthusiasm for having another sibling in the family, and how they help Hannah feel more comfortable and truly "at home" with us.  As Jill expressed above, she's quickly picking up their names and enjoying the chance to play with them!

Thanks for your continued prayers, support, and encouragement!  The adventures continue tomorrow!

The Family Grows!

We ended our time in Korea by spending the day with Joshua’s foster family, which was a great experience for all of us and a reminder of the power of family.  Today, we began a new chapter as we prepared ourselves for welcoming the newest member of our family - Hannah Grace LingJun!

After arriving in China yesterday afternoon, we were quickly greeted with a sudden spike in temperature and humidity from what we had in Korea.  It was in the mid-70 degrees when we got off the plane, and we were hot!  Once we met up with our shuttle driver, we were taken to our hotel, met our guide who is assisting us with our adoption process in-country, and got settled into our room.  Not too long later, Nathan and Eric took a quick walk down the street to look for some local restaurants and see what they could find.  Oddly enough, English signs and menus aren't as common here as they are in other parts of the world, and neither Eric or Nathan have had much experience with learning Chinese or even putting up a good attempt at it!  After stumbling around and staring at picture menus and looking pretty confused at what they were actually ordering (and confusing those who were trying to help them), they managed to find some Japanese food and brought it back to the hotel for everyone to taste.  It was pretty good, and filled our stomachs for the night.  Weary from our day of travel, we went to bed with the thought that this was our last sleep before meeting Hannah.  (This was also the last night of her sleeping in an orphanage.  What was she thinking?  How was she feeling? Oh the thoughts running through our minds before you fall asleep....)

In the morning, we were treated to an amazing breakfast buffet here at the hotel that included a combination of traditional Chinese and American breakfast items, such as fresh rolls and pastries, fruit, and a host of other options for everyone to choose from.  The kids were (naturally) quite excited about this, and to realize this is the first of many morning breakfasts here.  Not to be outdone, Eric found a lot of excitement in the two high quality espresso coffee machines that were (ahem) “conveniently located” near our table, and took one for the team by being the first to try out how it worked.  A few tweaks on the coffee are being explored for the future, but it did not disappoint!

We met up with two other adoptive families from the States that are with our agency and are also meeting their kids today.  Together, we went to exchange money at the bank with our guide, and also received some other essential information and details about what the day would have in store.

After a quick lunch break, we all hoped into a van and went to the Provincial Affairs office where we would verify some necessary paperwork and meet Hannah for the first time.  It was a rainy day here in Guangzhou, but that didn’t stop the Groezinger’s from the excitement of being able to meet and hold Hannah for the first time!

While we were waiting in the main meeting area of the Provincial Affairs office, we witnessed other families meeting their child for the first time.  We anxiously waited our turn, and quickly moved into the position where we were told to stand and wait.  With cameras and videos going, we looked up and Hannah came walking around the corner from another room with her orphanage worker right beside her.  Dressed in a pretty grey dress with shiny black dress shoes and white tights, it was a magical moment of joy, excitement, and overwhelming emotion!  She was HERE!  She walked over to us without any fear or hesitation, and welcomed us by letting us hold her, give her hugs, and tell her who we were and how much we loved her.  We then introduced her to the kids, and had a few moments together there in the middle of the room as we celebrated us becoming a family of six...for the very first time.

Although she was initially a bit shy and quiet, it didn’t take long until we could see her demeanor open a bit more…and the smiles began…and couldn’t stop.  And then....a little giggle.  And another.  And more smiles.  Soon enough, we were beginning to see her little heart open up and reveal her gentle, sweet personality that we immediately fell in love with and enjoyed.  While we were all smitten by and busy playing with her, we also had the chance to ask her social worker and nanny from the orphanage a number of questions about her daily habits, food and sleep patterns, and overall care that will help us understand how we can better care for her going forward.

Shortly after the other families met and spent time with their social workers, we loaded up in the van and came back to the hotel to spend time together and finish a few paperwork items that will be processed tomorrow.  The rest of the evening was ours to enjoy and bond together as a family.

So many thoughts and feelings flowing through our hearts and minds today that it is hard to put them fully into words, but we hope this gives a small glimpse into this amazing, life-changing, forever-family day we had.  As we wrap up the end of our first day together, we're learning that she is a curious little girl who likes to explore, eat well, and play with her siblings!  We can’t wait to learn more about her personality in the days to come and continue to love her and care for her needs.  And those giggles and smiles?  Yep - we've seen a lot more of those too.

Many of you have been a part of this journey with us, through your words of encouragement, prayers, or financial support, and we are truly thankful and blessed for your part in the process of bringing Hannah home into our family.  It is humbling for us to know that there are many praying and supporting us and Hannah half-way around the world.  We don’t take that for granted!  From the bottom of our hearts - thank you.

Stay tuned for more - our time in China is only beginning, and we couldn’t think of a better way to do it.  Welcome to the family, Hannah Grace LingJun!  We love you!

Our first meeting!

The sisters are finally together!

First family selfie!

Family

Family.  Such a powerful word.

5 years ago our family expanded from four to five, as a result of adopting Joshua from South Korea. We were grateful for the nurture and love he received from his foster family during those first two years of his life before he joined our family.  As was evident from our meeting with them earlier this week, they continue to love and cherish Joshua and were overjoyed with us coming to visit them here.

Our meeting last Thursday was with his foster mom and dad, but he also had three adult foster sisters (and one brother-in-law) that also loved and cared for him.  They weren’t able to visit with us Thursday so they invited us to join their entire family for the day on Saturday, including lunch, dinner, and some fun activities together at a home they rented just outside the city of Seoul.

Appa (dad) picked us up in the morning and we drove for a little over an hour. It was fun to see a bit of the area outside of the city and get away from the hustle of the traffic and people.

Once we arrived, and as the other foster sisters and their families arrived (with two new little ones we hadn't met last time we were here!), hugs, smiles, and lots of pictures were being exchanged!  In many ways, it seemed like the whole family was back together again - 5 years later.

Since it was a beautiful day outside, Appa was busy grilling up a variety of food on the grill, including some Korean BBQ pork, fish, shrimp, and some Galbi, while Umma (mom) was inside preparing appetizers and many delicious sides and finishing the other preparations for lunch.

Once lunch was ready, we enjoyed an incredible meal together, with all the traditional Korean food and flavors that Appa and Umma had prepared for us! They were very gracious and patient with us while we tried them all and learned how to eat them! Appa even complimented Nathan on how well he could use chopsticks!

We enjoyed catching up with the rest of the family, played a little soccer after lunch, and took a lot more pictures - including a new family photo with ALL of us in it!  We had a GREAT time!

Joshua meeting one of his other foster sister's little boy for the first time!

Joshua playing a little soccer with one of his foster sisters

The new family photo! = )

After lunch was cleared we all loaded into their cars and headed to an area known for their traditional Korean pottery. We walked inside a pottery shop that offered customers the chance to make and paint their own piece of pottery. The foster sisters invited each of us to pick out a piece of pottery to create, and everyone enjoyed trying our hand at the pottery wheel and later with the paintbrush. We left our pieces there to be glazed and put in the kiln, and they will be shipped to us later. After a quick stop for some coffee and smoothies, we all headed back to the house for some fun and to prepare for the main meal.

Once again, Appa and Umma were busy preparing a wonderful variety of food for us to enjoy together - fresh salad, clam soup, fresh tuna on rice (sushi), seasoned cooked tuna, and some shrimp!  Appa is a wonderful cook, and loves to show his hospitality through providing his family with great meals and making sure everyone has enough to eat!

We exchanged gifts, had dessert, and also celebrated Joshua’s return with a special cake they had made with the phrase “ I ❤️ you” written on it with candles. It was a special way to end an extraordinary day!

Joshua gave Umma a pair of shoes he wore as a baby, to see if they would fit the little baby

Joshua with all three of his foster sisters and new baby

Joshua YoonSeo with Appa

 It is hard to believe it has been five years since Joshua came home; his foster family was very excited and thankful to see him again.  And Joshua was just as excited and thankful to see them!  We also learned new stories about him as a baby and new funny memories of their time together with Joshua YoonSeo.

Although we have maintained a connection with Joshua’s foster family, this visit helped us get to know them on a more personal level, and we all enjoyed it! 

Which brings us back to the word “family”.  Although we are separated by other countries, bodies of water, and many time zones, we all realized the connection we have with one another and the time we could spend together. As they shared near the end of the evening: “We are together”.

We couldn’t agree more. Because after all, that’s what family is all about - being together.  And we were.  It was special for each one of us.  Shortly after we left them, Joshua asked Jill,

"When can we visit them again?"  Jill explained that we don't know but we definitely hope to someday.  And he replied,

"Next time can we stay for a month or 12 weeks?"

We wrap up our time in Korea with a full heart, thankful for the chance to return here, show Joshua part of his home country, and visit with his foster family again.

But, as one journey comes to an end, another one is about to begin.....

A Walk Into History & A Hike Up The Tower!

Our day today kicked off with a visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace - a historical and well known royal palace that was the home of the Joseon dynasty.  This expansive palace was built back in 1395, shortly after the capital of Korea was moved to Seoul.  This location and palace became the heart of the city and a significant icon that has been restored and maintained today.  While we were there, we saw some traditional musicians and changing of the guard ceremony, and many Koreans wearing traditional dress and clothes.  It was a beautiful day to explore and walk around the area, taking in the ornate architecture and design of the Palace and seeing a bit of how the rulers of this time period lived.

After a visit to the Palace, we jumped back onto the subway and headed over to Insa-dong, an area of the city that has a number of shops that offer traditional souvenirs and food stands to enjoy.  While we did a little shopping, we also found the exact spot where we took a picture of Joshua playing in the water five years ago (his favorite activity).  He thought it was really funny, so how could we resist recreating the scene and taking an updated picture?

Then....and now!

We had some downtime in the afternoon and took a few naps (still recovering from jet lag and short nights of sleep!), then headed back out to enjoy a beautiful evening in Seoul.  We first visited Namsan Park, where they have recreated a traditional Korean village with homes, and spent some time walking through the area and seeing how unique and different their homes and living areas were compared to ours!

After we left the Village, we took a bus up to the N Seoul Tower, beautifully lit up on one of the highest points in Seoul.  After getting off the bus, we had to hike up part of the side of the mountain to fully enjoy the amazing view of " Seoul at night".  The Seoul Tower is also the area where the "Locks of Love" are located, and we showed Joshua where we put our family lock on to highlight our forever family day and unending family love for one another.  Then, we took the opportunity to go up to the Seoul Tower observation deck (1,200 ft up) and enjoy a 360 degree view of the city.  It was a beautiful night to see the lights of the city and enjoy the views!  The girls even had an "extra bonus view" when they went to the bathroom - glass walls that looked out onto the city!  (Can someone say "privacy?!")

The N Seoul Tower - lit up with white, blue, and red (the colors of Korea)

Overlooking the bustling city of Seoul

Privacy please!

After taking 8 subway rides, 2 bus rides, and walking over 15,000 steps for the day, we were ready for bed when we came back!  Here's to a good night of sleep and looking forward to another exciting day tomorrow with Joshua's foster family!

Outside the front door of Joshua's adoption agency!

Joshua looooves his noodles!

...and his freshly prepared gimbap!

Day 1 in Seoul: Babies, Reunions, & Remebrances

Our first full day in Seoul found us with little time to sit and reflect on our travels thus far, but instead took us to a variety of new experiences for all of us!

Prior to our meeting with Joshua's foster parents, we asked about being able to visit the Baby Room here at the adoption agency.  Many babies begin their journey to adoption here for the first few months of their lives, and are then placed in a foster family until an adoption is complete.  This was true for Joshua as well, and so we were able to visit this area of the agency and see all the babies the nursing staff are caring for and help him visualize where he was for a short time before living with his Umma & Appa in their home.  In total, there were approximately 30-40 babies that Eastern is caring for at this time, and all were below the age of 1 year old.  We weren't able to hold or rock any babies (like Jill had been able to do last time), but seeing them was a powerful reminder of these precious little lives and their need for a loving, healthy home to be raised in.

Despite us looking like masked bandits, we wore these face masks to prevent spreading any germs while in the Baby Room!

We then met with Joshua's foster parents and had a great visit.  They were so excited to see Joshua again, and very pleased to see how he had grown.  Our time with them was filled with joy, smiles, hugs, and "catching up" about what Joshua has learned and how he has changed over the past five years since they had seen him last.  They asked about his favorite foods, what he likes to play with, hobbies, etc.  They were also very pleased to see Nathan and Brooke and how much they had changed since last time!  Although our language wasn't the same, they had invited a younger cousin to be with us that could help translate our conversations and interaction.  She was a blessing, and we enjoyed getting to know her also.

A Joyous Reunion! = )

Near the end of our time with them, they invited us to join them for lunch at a Korean restaurant where they ordered Joshua's favorite Korean food for all of us to enjoy (bulgogi).  When we arrived, we were directed into a private dining area room where our meal was freshly prepared and shared among all of us.  We continued our conversation with them, asking questions and sharing updates with one another, all while enjoying a wonderful traditional Korean meal - complete with multiple courses, salads, soups, kimchi, tea, and of course, freshly cooked bulgogi!  Joshua sat between his Umma & Appa on one side of the table (smiling and enjoying his time with them!), and they enjoyed being able to help him enjoy his favorite Korean dish!  Lots of smiles and fun at this lunch!

After lunch, we returned to our guest house and later went out to explore the Korean War Memorial, which reflects and remembers the Korean War and the significant sacrifice made by those who served in it - both Koreans and the many armed forces from around the world who assisted in this war.  Although we arrived a bit too late to visit the exhibits inside, we toured the grounds and took in some of the statues, monuments, and military equipment (ships, planes, etc) that were there.  We did get to go inside the Children's Museum (connected to the Korean War Memorial), where they described and talked about the war from a children's perspective with some interactive and hands on activities.  This sparked a little teaching time with the kids, as we talked through some of what happened and the impact it had on those living here.  What a humbling and powerful reminder of those who fought and sacrificed much for Korea.

"Korean War Memorial" (in Korean)

After a quick subway ride back to our guest house, and a light dinner (since we were still full from our lunch!), it was off to bed to prepare for our next full day of adventures and excitement tomorrow!

(This photo needs no caption!)

Up, Up, and Away!

Not looking too bad for a 4:30am hotel departure, eh?

After starting our adoption process back in June, 2017, the day has finally come for us to begin the physical journey to bring our daughter home!  Many of you have been praying, supporting, and following along on this journey with us, and we're excited to share with you some of the details of our trip as it unfolds!

We arrived safe and sound in Seoul, Korea earlier this afternoon, after spending approximately 17 hours flying!  The kids did great on the trip, but naturally, we're all a bit tired and ready to catch up on sleep that we lost somewhere along the way.

Met a few friends here in the airport in Seoul!

Our weather has been perfect - sunny and warm in the mid-60 degrees.  A perfect evening to enjoy being outside!  By far the biggest highlight of the day was to see Joshua's initial reaction to being in Korea as soon as we came up out of the subway station.  His responses of "awesome!" "wow!" and "so cool!", quickly followed by "can I take some pictures?!" stole the show!  You couldn't ask for a bigger smile on his face than the one he had on at that moment!

Joshua's "first look" at the bustling city of Seoul.

We arrived at the Korean adoption agency we worked with when we came to bring Joshua home five years ago, and it felt good to be back.  They have guest rooms available in their building for families that come and visit, so we were able to reserve a room again for our stay (ironically, the same room we were in when we picked up Joshua!).  Oh the memories!

After a good night of sleep tonight, we have the opportunity tomorrow to visit with Joshua's foster parents and then explore Seoul a bit on our own!  We can't wait!

Thanks for praying for us - and please don't stop! = )

The biggest smile of the day goes to....