I Love My Bed

I just wanted to say that. When I woke up this morning, I tried to savor the feeling of being stretched out, on my back, with a nice soft mattress and pillow. Once we fly out this afternoon, we'll be in the air or in airports for the next 24 hours!! And have I mentioned the flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong is 14 hours???? And have I told you that my husband is 6'5" and has long legs? Now you know what to pray about the next couple days. :)

In all seriousness, we're excited to finally embark on our journey to China. But our joy and anticipation has been mixed with sadness and motherly concern as we leave our 2 year old son. So far, he seems to be doing okay. This morning when he got up, he said, "Mommy....Daddy....get Grace." And he said it with a big smile. I think he gets it. Though he can't possibly fathom how long we'll be gone.So after I took this picture, I found our small carry-on suitcase in our bedroom!! I can't believe we almost left without it!

In the car this morning, a thought entered my mind. Scott and I are so excited about welcoming Virginia Grace as our daughter. While she may not be of our flesh and blood, we already love her so much. I wondered if God ever experiences this giddiness when He knows a person is about to become a child of His and experience His amazing love. While someone might be seeking, they can't possibly anticipate what they're about to experience. I can almost imagine the Lord smiling as He waits to welcome a lonely and lost "child" into his arms. As that individual accepts the gift of salvation, he or she takes on the name of Christ. And God loves them as if they're His very own.

Guan Xue Hua will soon become Virginia Grace Xue Brown. She'll take on our name and be called one of our family. I've never experienced a clearer pictures of God's plan of redemption and salvation. A second chance at life and love and intimacy.

We'll reach Hong Kong tomorrow around 5:30 pm US Central time (6:30 am Thursday morning in China). I'll try to post when we get settled in the hotel. I have been blown away by all the messages, comments, and emails you've sent our way. Thank you, thank you!! And as you enjoy the comfort of your bed tonight, think of us. :)