On to Hong Kong

I accidentally saved my post from yesterday to draft and didn't publish it. So now it looks like 2 entries in one day. But today is a great day as our little Ella has come so far in the week and a half we have had her.

Today Ella finally learned how to drink out of a straw. We only brought 2 sippy cups with us and one had a straw. She even had a hard time with the regular 9m+ one. Most children her age drink from bottles here and still take formula. But we really wanted her to be able to forgo the bottle since most children on the States stop using after one year of age. She likes everything in its place and seems to pick of any kind of sticker or tag on our luggage or her toys. That is so like our, Ava! 

She definitely loves to play with Chad and Ava. She runs from living room to bedroom back and forth just laughing and trying to get the attention of one of us to chase her.  She has the sweetest little laugh and her first word and only word so far was when she imitated Ava saying READY.  She also giggles when Chad and I kiss. We have been trying to teach her what a kiss and hug are by showing her.  So far she just receives them, but that's an improvement over last week. 

Well we leave in one hour for Hong Kong by van, and it will be 3 hours until we arrive. Then we have to be the airport 14 hours( 5:30 am local time) from now to begin the 18 hour journey home. Really not looking forward to that but yet I am. So prayers for us and especially Ella as I am not sure what to expect from her on the plane. I have definitely felt your prayers over the last 2 weeks and so appreciate all the love and support. I know The Lord has been with us every step of the way and he will see us safely home. Many blessings!