Introducing Isabella Xin Hope

We left Beijing early this morning and flew to Chengdu. We checked into the hotel and our guide took us to the Civil Affairs office where we waited only a few minutes for Isabella to arrive with her foster parents. The office was kind of like a courthouse office. The whole experience has been surreal and one that could only have been orchestrated by our heavenly father.
We met Isabella as she toddled toward us. Talk about heart thumping out of our chests! She is the most beautiful little girl!!! She is so tiny and petite (which we have learned is very customary for the town she is from). She toddled toward us and took a little toy that I brought for her. No tears, just checking us out and the environment around her. We asked her if she could give us a hug and after a few minutes, she did … and gave us kisses!!! Because she has been so blessed to be with an amazing American foster family, she understands EVERYTHING we say. She can’t talk much because of her missing palate, but we know exactly what she wants. She is an imitator. If we dance, she dances. If we clap, she claps. I also just snapped my fingers to music and she tried snapping her fingers. She is also very obedient. After we finished some paperwork at the Civil Affairs office, our guide took us to a grocery store. Whenever I would tell her no, or tell her to hold my hand, she did. She is also very independent. She wants to walk everywhere and climb and just explore. She still has not cried one tear, but every once in a while we see her look around as if she is looking for her foster mommy and daddy. That is when I tear up. They have loved her so much and haven taken such good care of her and also have given this little blessing hope. This family will always be part of ours and we will be forever grateful.
Today has been so natural and it seems like she has always been with us. I know this may be the “honeymoon” stage so to speak, but we pray it continues.
She loves the toys that we brought her, especially the little Arial cell phone and magna doodle. When she smiles, she looks like she is gritting her teeth as hard as she can … so funny.
There were other families either waiting to receive their child or receiving their children at the same office we were at. They were all from Spain. We chatted with them and it is so neat to hear about the children, their ages and if they are a waiting for a boy or girl. We have seen many boys find their forever families during this trip as well as many older girls.
It has been a long, emotional day. More updates tomorrow. We have her and we are truly blessed. We can’t wait for her brothers to meet her. We miss them so much right now and wish they were here to meet Isabella. Thanks to all of you who have been lifting us up in prayer. We can truly feel his presence all around us throughout this entire experience. Bella is a miracle and is truly a gift from God. We love you all!