Twelve hours and counting

We have arrived in Hefei after two more planes and more people than I have ever seen in one place in my life.

Our guide, TingTing, was waiting for us at the airport. She has already won our confidence. She is warm, kind

and seems to have everything under control.

Our hotel is beautiful and very comfortable. Buck did a great job.

TingTing  was at the Hefei SWI (orphanage) two days ago and had taken pictures of Annie (XinTian) on her smart phone. She 

had a huge smile on her face as she was surrounded by "her friends." Ting Ting said she has been told we are coming to get her but all agree,

at her age, likely there is little comprehension of what that actually means. 

My heart breaks knowing how much we will certainly initially frighten her tomorrow. I hope and pray she will soon understand how much we love her and will always take care for her.

Molly has been practicing her Mandarin and is quite good. She has been working hard to calm me down... a task beyond anyone's control.

Everything is set, we are as ready as we will ever be...deep breath...here we go!

Annie Kate, we cannot wait to meet you, hold you and love you as our own.